^LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. I i # I UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. | yCe-v-^ fc'>>t,.^^i.^.r^'^^*^Z7^^5L and unexpected. "Who would have thought that the wild freaks of a boy eleven years old, in attempting to escape punishment for a pardonable fault in school, would lead him 18 MEMOIR OP THE to forsake his father's house, and all the endearments of home and family connections, and 5"outhful acquaintances ? that such an event, should be the first step to bring that youth to fill places of honor and trust to which few aspire, and to which very few attain ? And yet, had one link been wanting in the chain of events which placed J R , the little lad, with his distant relatives in Plymouth, he would not be, as at this day, the Hon. J R , in Ver- mont, having filled most of the various offices of high and honorary trust. With respect to the " debt and interest" of which you write, I had no debt, and the circumstances named, were entirely forgotten. If debt was due to either, it was rather to you, than to me. However, I receive the sum gratefully, as a token of your kind remembrance and contin- ued friendship. I rejoice in the blessings which God has bestowed upon you, and hope still to enjoy your kind remem- brance while I remain on earth. Judging from the pleasure I have received in the sketches of your life, I am led to presume that it will not be entirely uninteresting to you, to learn some of the events of my life since the time to which your letter refers. After leaving the school, I made Westford my principal home, until I went to read with Dr. Payson of Rindge. In the year 1790, I was ordained pastor of the congregational church in Mason, and that relation has continued to the pres- ent day. I have had two colleague pastors settled with me, but now am alone in that office. I have been blessed with an unusual degree of health, having in all my ministry, but very few times been taken off from public ministerial labors, for want of health, and through the abounding mercy of God, have been spared to see the last day of January, 1848, which completed my eighty-second year of pilgrimage on earth. But four or five are now living in the town, who were at the head of a family, when I became their minister." The letter closes with some particular details of his family, which will be more pertinently introduced in another connection. REV. EBENEZER HILL. 19 To resume the narrative. After closing his school-teaching at Westforcl, he pursued the study of theology with the Rev. Seth Payson, (afterwards known as Dr. Payson,) of Rindge, N. H. While residing at Rindge, and in his family, he united with the church in Rindge, by profession, September 28th, 1788. At that time, there were no theological seminaries in the land. The usual course was, for the candidate for the minis- tr}^, to resort to some well known divine, who had a reputa- tion for learning and ability to teach, and with him to pursue such a course of study, as the parties should think proper. After the course of instruction was sufficiently advanced, the pastor would introduce his pupil to his own pulpit and people, before he went abroad ; and thus give him the benefit of a certain degree of experience, under the most favorable circumstances. This form of instruction, if it did not furnish to the student so good an opportunity for extensive and accu- rate scholarship, as the present mode, yet possessed advan- tages for carefully observing the operations of divine truth on a christian parish, and thereby preparing himself for the dis- charge of his professional duties, with fewer embarrassments than are usually in the way of a cloister student, who has passed through a full curriculum of collegiate and theological education. The reasons inducing him to apply to Dr. Payson for instruction, are not now known, but he seems to have been favored by a divine providence, in the selection of his teacher. Dr. Payson was a man of sterling worth, and he secured the regard of his pupil, and retained it till his death. If, as stated in his letter to Mr. R , he spent two years as a school-teacher in Westford, he must have commenced his residence with Mr. Payson in August, 1788. That it was so, his letters show ; for in one bearing date at Rindge, August, 1788, (the day of the month not inserted,) he writes, "I have now been here eleven days." His novitiate was very short, for his license to preach, bears date October 28th, 20 MEMOIR OF THE 1788. He commenced preaching as a candidate, immediately after. Many of his sermons remaining, bear date in that year. Indeed, it is probable, that his first effort in conduct- ing the public worship in the pulpit, was prior to tliat date, for in a letter dated, as usual with him at that time, Ijy the day of the week, omitting that of the month, under date of Saturday evening, October, 1788, he writes, ^'Mr. Payson has just been into my study, and says I must preach for him to-morrow, for he is not prepared." The letter continued on subsequent days, till Saturday, two weeks from the first date, makes no mention of the examination or license. The following copy of this venerable document is worthy of insertion, for its quaintness, and also, as a sample of the mode in which such important matters were disposed of, by the fathers of the New England churches : ■/y<96', Soen z S'lUc, Gd. J^. a/i/ieaiec/ a7ic/ yaOmk^ec/ Aim/e^ ^o exa97unatton ad a ^afiacaa^e/ ifoz ye/ ^/-omec ^um^lu :^s:^^/uio7t/ enatuiu i?7/e /ic4 7?70Za/ ^Aazcu^^et, 'm^ntt^eziac *uznUaie{ ana incu'd tTz/ u?taczu -t^i^y 'ix^aj A SERMON, PREACHED IN THE OLD MEETING HOUSE, IN MASON, NOVEM, BER, 1837, ON THE OCCASION OF THE REMOVAL BY THE CHURCH AND SOCIETY, OF THEIR FLACE OF WORSHIF, TO THE NEW MEETING HOUSE, BY THE REV. EBENEZER HILL. DEUT. XXXII. 7. Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations. When Moses had conducted the children of Israel, God's chosen people from Egypt, through the great and terrible wilderness to the very borders of Canaan, and was informed that the time was just arrived, that he should leave them and be gathered to the great congregation of the dead, by divine direction he gathered the people together, and rehearsed in their ears the great things God had done for them, and put them in mind of their many provoking sins and acts of rebellion, and of the many judgments God brought on them and their fathers for their sins and provocations, and also, the great mercy of God in sparing them. And when he had written the history of the law to be deposited in the sacred ark, by the same divine command, he was led to compose a hymn or song, comprehending the important facts in their past history, likewise containing many predictions of future events. This was designed for them to commit to memory, and to be often rehearsed and sung, that so they might never forget them. Here we see how important it is, in the sight of God, that men should retain the knowledge of his mighty acts, and remember his mercies and his judgments. He 60 MEMOIR OF THE knew their liability to forget even the most remarkable and solemn scenes and events, and provided a help against this sinful infirmity, by having such facts as would excite the young to enquire about them, and keep the recollection of them ever fresh in their own memory, embodied in a popular, familiar song. This was the most effectual way of diffusing the knowledge, and preserving the memory of remarkable and solemn events which could be before the art of printing was discovered, and consequently when books would be scarce. This is the only way in which unlettered nations can, or do preserve, any fragments of their history ; even by embody- ing them in their songs, and tlius handing them down from generation to generation. God not only took care thus to preserve the history of his church and his dealings with his people and their enemies, but also in the very same way incul- cated the duty of charging the memory with these truths, and meditating on them much. Hence, whenever they repeated this song, they would of course repeat the command to " Remem- ber the days of old, and consider the years of many genera- tions." They are cautioned, that it is not enough for them to admit the facts related by their fathers, and treasure them up in their memory, but it is requisite, that they frequently call them up and cause them to pass before their minds, and make them subjects of deep thoughtfulness and meditation. From the words following the text, it is manifestly a duty to enquire after and seek to obtain knowledge of what God has wrought in ancient times and in later days. It is added to the text, '•' Ask thy Father and he will shew thee, your Elders and they will tell thee." It is a solemn and important duty of us all, to make ourselves acquainted with the history of the days of old, as far as we can, aud that we frequently revolve in our minds the events of past generations. This was certainly the case with the children of Israel, and we should remember that God addresses us in the same language that he did them. " Remember the days of old, consider the years of many gen- erations :" and ignorance or forgetfulness in us of the most REV. EBENEZER HILL. 61 wonderful and remarkable events of very ancient or of more modern times, would be very inexcusable. For we have the bible, which will carry back the mind to the very beginning of time, and we have richly the means of obtaining knowl- edge of civil and ecclesiastical history, in this day and land of books and general education. This is required as a duty, not only in the text, but in many other places, in plain and positive language ; and it is designed and calculated, as all other duties are, to promote our spiritual and moral edifica- tion, and comfort. In further pursuing the subject, I shall call your attention, 1st. To some things we may see as included in the requi- sition, "Eemember the days of old." 2d. To some of the advantages, which may result from the due remembrance and the contemplation of the days of old, and the years of many generations. I. The remembrance of the days of old ; things to be remembered and studied. Here I can name but few, and dwell upon none of them, as their importance requires. The things to be remembered and studied I name as included : 1st. The whole history of redemption, from the first inti- mation of mercy to fallen man, down to the full completion of the great work of redemption, by the actual sufferings of the divine Redeemer, and ascension of the Son of God. Whatever other events may be correctly related, constantly remembered and carefully studied, if this be not in some measure remembered, and do not engage our solemn con- sideration, we shall only have the more splendid way down to eternal death. It would have been better for us, never to have had an existence, nor to have known what great things God has wrought for sinners, than for us to disregard the divine command, in this respect. 2d. Among the things included in the days of old, and to be remembered, we may see as included, the constant and unchangeable care which Christ has ever taken of his church, and the protection he has afforded to individual saints, and 9 62 MEMOIR OF THE the wouclcrful deliverances he lias effected for them, in sea- sons of the greatest perils and sufferings. Often has the church been brought low, exceedingly low, and the enemies have thought that they had prevailed, but the Lord has brought deliverance, and given the triumph to his distressed people. And we should remember the instances of his faith- fulness with individuals, when he has borne with them, and carried them through severest trials ; though they have passed through the water, it has not overflowed them, and though they have passed through the fire, it has not consumed them. Wonderful indeed have been many instances, where God has wrought for his saints, when all other hope was gone, and these are recorded that we may remember and meditate on them. 3d. Again, the many instances wherein God has brought sore judgments upon his church and people, and individual saints, for their sins, are to be remembered by us. They are recorded, that we may know them well, and be admonished ; for examples, we have the histories of David, Hezekiah, and others. 4th. Again, the things to be remembered of old, are the remarkable judgments God has brought upon his enemies, and the enemies of his people ; such, for instance, as upon Egypt, Pharaoh and his host, and upon Babylon. We may also, especially on this day, view as included among the things of old to be studied, the events of divine Providence in which we are directly or individually concerned, such as : 1st. The preparation of our forefathers to leave their native land, their pleasant dwellings and possessions, in order that they might have the gospel in its purity, and worship God according to the dictates of their consciences, and especially, in preparing an asylum for them in this land, so shortly before unknown to the old world. Here God planted his choice vine, and caused it to take root and bear fruit, once glorious fruit, however since degenerated. The kind- ness of the Lord to our forefathers, the deliverances be EEV. EBENEZER HILL. 63 wronglit for them, when foes rose up against them, and the blessings he bestowed upon all their labors, until a little one had become a great nation ; these are all of them, things of old, which are to be remembered, and which ought to be studied, until our hearts are filled with gratitude and praise. 2d. There are many things in the history of our own life, though it be short, and in the events which have led on to the circumstances in which we are placed this day. Our child- hood and youth, our manhood and age, have not passed away, without many dispensations of Providence, which call for our continued remembrance, with deep feelings of gratitude, holy joy, and lively praise. The history of this town and of this church, with all the train of events, which have led to the circumstances in which we are placed this day, contains many things, which call for our lasting remembrance, and solemn meditation. In them, Ave may trace the leadings of divine Providence, and though on a smaller scale, yet more remark- able, because so much nearer to us. II. I proceed to invite your attention to some of the advantages resulting from the continued remembrance, and due consideration of past events. And it is believed to be capable of proof, that historical facts, especially those which are contained in the bible and the late history of the church, teach us most conclusive lessons of wisdom, and the most solemn, remarkable, alarming, and profitable truths. If we remember and consider well, the whole history of redemp- tion, we shall learn that there is, and can be but one possible way of escape for sinners, from the just, though tremendous wrath of God. The dispensations of God against the wicked, as well as his faithfulness and truth to those who fear his name and believe his promises, occur on every page. The first hope that sinful man could ever indulge, was grounded on the promises to the woman's seed; the display of divine anger against stubborn sinners, in the days of old, is sufficient to make those fear, who are not in the way in which sinners may come into the favor of God. ! what 64 MEMOIR OP THE proofs does the history of the world give of the prevalence of sin, and of its hatcfulness to a holy God. If we look througli the days of old, to the very morning of time, we see death reigning over all, in that all have sinned, for the wages of sin is death. In every view we take of the days of old, we see the evil of sin, and the dreadful consequences of apostasy from God. The whole history of redemption con- tained in the bible, when it is seriously contemplated, goes to teach the wicked world, that vain is the cifort to prevail against, and overturn the church of God. How has God swept away whole and mighty nations, when they have risen up against his little flock ! How solemn a call is this on sinners, to accept his mercy ! We may learn some of the special benefits of remembering the days of old, and of acquaintance with ancient times, from many cases related in the bible ; and the special benefit to be obtained thereby, is to be seen. Thus, is the church in a low, depressed, or oppressed state ; are christians borne down with troubles, discouraged, and ready to faint ; let them remember the days of old, &c., and they will find facts, which may strengthen their faith, and encourage tlieir hope. Thus it was with the Psalmist, as related in the seventy-seventh Psalm. He had a season of darkness and sore trial, and was almost ready to despair of the mercy of God ; but when he remembered the days of old, the years of ancient times, when he called to mind his song in the night, and on his having made diligent search, he was led to ask, will the Lord cast off forever ? Can such a thing be ? Will he be favorable no more ? Is his mercy clean gone forever ? Do his promises fail ? Hath God forgotten to be gracious ? Such desponding, unbelieving thoughts had troubled him. But how did he check himself, and recover a tranquil state ; yea, a state of holy joy, by calling to mind what God had done of old. His language is, "I said this in my infirmity," and instead of yielding to such despondency, he said, "I will remember the years of the right hand of the most High, I will remember the works of the REV. EBENEZER HILL. 65^ Lord, I will remember the wonders of old ;" and we find Mm soon speaking the language of praise. This is the benefit that the people of God may derive, from remembering the days of old, when they are by any means brought low. Here they may take courage. Again, when Moses would keep the people low in their own ininds, and grateful to God for all his wonders of mercy and favor, he called upon them to " remember that thou wast a servant in the land of Egypt, and that the Lord thy God brought thee out thence through a mighty hand and a stretched out ar^." If we would call to mind past events, and even go no further back than our own experience, we should remember our once totally ruined state, our state of slavery in sin, and how we owe all to divine mercy, if we are not now in worse than Egyptian bondage. If any thing in the world can humble us and hide pride from us, this would do it, and this is the great good received. And when he would bring them to deep repentance and continued humility, he charged them " remem- ber and forget not, how ye provoked the Lord your God to wrath in the wilderness, from the day when ye departed out of the land of Egypt, until ye came into this place ye have been rebellious until this day." And when he would inspire them with courage to face their enemies and attempt arduous duties to which they thought themselves not able, he thus called upon them, " Thou shalt remember what the Lord did unto Pharaoh and unto all Egypt." Such benefits may result to us from proper meditation, on the years of many generations gone by. And the more we acquaint ourselves with the history of this nation and the Church of Christ contained in it. And the more frequently we call to mind, and the more closely we meditate on the dealings of God ; the more we shall find to humble us and bring us to repentance, to incite in us gratitude and a desire to make returns for unmerited kindness. And to these mar- velous events we have not time to advert. Many circumstan- ces conspire to call our attention to know what to some would 66 MEMOIR OP THE be tilings of many generations, things transacted long before their birth, and to some few, although they are things in which they had a personal share, they would seem of ancient times long since done. But entering immediately on the subject, I will call our attention to a few inferences ; I shall barely name them and then leave them for our own reflections. The Old Testament, much despised by many, would be of exceeding value for the edification of all, and for the strengthening of their faith ; not only is it very essential to their salvation, as well as the New Testament, but to their establishment in the hope of the gospel. Here only have we the history ^ the dealings of G-od with man and with liis church for about four thousand years. 2d. We see the value of his preached word. 3d. Acquaintance with the history of God's dealing with the church and the world, with the history of former times, is of importance, as affording subjects for profitable medita- tion, at all times, to the exclusion of vain, foolish and impure thoughts. This day is an epoch in the history of this town and church. This day, we leave this house, where we, and our fathers have worshiped for many years, and we may receive it as the voice of God to us. "Remember the days of old." Let us now together meditate on the events occurring in the days of our fathers, and trace them down to the present day, and we shall see much to humble us, and to shew us the many, and wonderful kindnesses of our God. I begin with some in the civil history of the town, such as I have been able to collect. The time of the first inhabitants moving into this town, was in the year 1752, and it was called tovraship No. 1 ; and the first white child born in the town, would be, if living, more than eighty years of age. The first settlers in the town were many of them poor, and the settlement did not proceed so rapidly as in some other towns, nor was it until the year 1768, that an incorporation was sought and obtained. In that year, the inhabitants were incorporated a REV. EBENEZER HILL. • 67 body politic, and the place named Mason. This was in August; and in November following, when the first tax was levied, there were but seventy-six rated polls or persons, liable to be taxed. The original proprietors erected a meet- ing house, just by where this stands, for the inhabitants, before the town was incorporated ; that is, they set up a frame, covered and enclosed it, but it never was finished. There it stood a shell until 1790. And in that your fathers, and some now living, worshiped, and even in the winter. In that house, I commenced my ministry in this place. Then, there was not a riding carriage in the town, and in the winter, whole families would come to meeting on a sled drawn by oxen, and the ladies were not ashamed to be seen in their plain, decent, tvarm, comfortable, homemade clothing. Were those times more unfavorable, or on the whole more uncom- fortable, than the present, judge ye. At length the town as a corporate body, agreed to build a house for the worship of God, but were not agreed as to its location. This was submitted to a committee of disinter- ested persons, and they unhajipily selected this spot. I say unhappily, for had it been located where it should have been, it might have well continued many years longer as the place of our solemnities, and with small expense be made comfortable. When our fathers entered upon the work of building this house, it was with many discouragements and fears. They felt poor, and weak handed for such an undertaking; but God smiled upon them, and succored them far beyond their fears. They felt it to be a heavy burden, but they undertook it with cheerfulness, and were enabled to sustain it. And forty seven years ago this present month, the house was so far finished, that the ceremonies of my ordination were performed in it, which were the first public religious exercises in this house. It was soon after solemnly dedicated unto Almighty God, as a place for his worship, and through the rich goodness and mercy of God, very few sabbaths have passed from that time to the present, when the house has not been occupied by some 68 MEMOIR OF THE • as a place ojf worship. And since that time the Lord has blessed his people, aji^reeably to his promises to his chosen people of old. He has increased their number and increased their wealth, proving that none are poorer for what they spend for God. In the year 1790, when this house was built, there were but about one hundred and ten dwelling houses in the town, poor and good, and now there are more than two hundred and ten, and our eyes are permitted to behold a new house completed, to be dedicated to God for the use of this church and the congregatioa worshiping with them. Surely we have cause this day to set up our Ebenezer, and say, hith- erto hath the Lord helped us, and to give thanks at the remembrance of his merciful kindness, when we remember the days of old, and consider and think upon our present state as a society, for when we go out of tliis house we are not left houseless. I will now add something relative to the changes that have taken place in the town, to be remembered among the things of the days of old. There is but one dwelling house and two barns now standing in all that can be considered as contained in this centre village, wliich were standing when I first came to this town, and but one building of any kind in all the west vil- lage, and there had never then been a resident physician, nor other professional man, except the short time Mr. Searle was the minister. Supposing five persons to a dwelling house, there would not at that time have been more than five hun- dred and fifty inhabitants, but they did probably some exceed six hundred. We have enjoyed at least a comfortable share of health with other places, and there have been many instan- ces of longevity. But some years have been distinguished by great mortality. In the years 1818 and 1819, we were visit- ed with that dreadful scourge angina maligna or throat dis- temper, and it swept away many of the children. In the year 1818 was the greatest number of deaths that ever were in the town in one year ; there were thirty four ; of these twenty two were children under fourteen years of age, and of these REV. EBENEZER HILL. 69 twelve died of throat distemper. In 1819, there were thirty one deaths, and of these eighteen were under fourteen years of age, and twelve of them were removed by the same malig- nant distemper. In the space of forty-seven years, there have been removed from this place to the narrow house prepared for all the living, somewhat rising eight hundred. What a large congre- gation ! How often have all the now living, been warned to prepare for death and the judgment. But it is time to call to mind the years of many genera- tions, respecting the church in this place. Previous to my acquaintance with this church, it had been in a state of per- plexity and trouble, for most of the time of its existence as a church. Among the earliest settlers in the town, were some professors, but no church was constituted until 1772, four years after the town was incorporated. When the church was embodied, it was stated to be a Calvinistic church, and the articles of faith to agree essentially, with the West- minster confession of faith. At this time Kev. Jonathan Searle was ordained, and constituted the pastor of this church. Shortly after, unhappy difficulties arose between the pastor and the flock, which caused his dismissal, nine years after his settlement. Soon after, or from the time of this event, he ceased to preach. He was appointed a civil magis- trate, officiated in that capacity, and remained in the town until his death. During the nine years of his ministry, fourteen were admitted by profession, and nine by letter, and eleven owned the covenant, so called, according to the practice of most of the churches in N. England, in those days. After that period, until the time of my ordination, I find record of admission of one member only. There was a long time of deathlike sleep in the church, until about the year 1785, when it pleased God to pour out his spirit, and cause a great revival of religion in his people, and of his work in converting sinners, in New Ipswich, under the ministry of the venerable Mr. Farrar, and soon it extended, in some measure, to this and other 10 70 MEMOIR OF THE towns. This part of the vincjard, although in a very deplor- able state, \ras not wholly passed by; some few christians were awakened, and brought to submit themselves to their long neglected duty. Many of the people of Mason, especially of the young, flocked to the solemn meetings at New Ipswich, and were struck with wonder, and soon some were convicted of sin, and became anxious for their soul's salvation, and shortly after were rejoicing in the hope of pardoning mercy. But such was the state of the church in Mason, destitute of a minister, broken, dispirited, that the new converts sought to unite with the church in New Ipswich, to which they had become greatly attached, by their acquaintance with the members, which the situation and intercourse had brought about, and by that mutual love, which new born souls who have mourned, and wept, and rejoiced together, feel. Their request was granted, on condition that they removed their relation, whenever the church in Mason should become settled. One happy effect of this revival, was a determina- tion in the church and congregation, to seek the settlement of a gospel minister; and, in the- very mysterious providence of God, the present speaker was elected to this office, and is continued to this day. Just before my ordination, those who were residing in town, members of other churches, and these members of the New Ipswich church, removed their relation to this church. The church consisted of thirty-six members when I settled with them, and has now rising one hundred and fifty-seven, in this town, in regular standing. The whole number added, during my ministry, is two hundred and eighty-one ,• of these, two hundred and sixty-one by profession. A small number indeed compared to the number of inhabitants, and length of time, although we have been favored with some precious seasons of refreshing, from the presence of the Lord, seasons when the Holy Spirit has come down with power, and wrought wonders, making the word of God powerful, and causing joy REV. EBENEZER HILL. ^1 and gladness on earth and in heaven, over penitent sinners. It will be doubtless refreshing to some, to be reminded of those years, in which they rejoiced when first they knew the Lord, or rejoiced when salvation came to their house, and their dear friends became dearer to their hearts, by being united to the family of God. The years 1801 and 1802 were indeed years of the right hand of God. After a long season in which but few, and at distant intervals, were persuaded to embrace the Savior, God was pleased to grant such a refreshing season, as never had before been experienced in this place, and the fruit that was gathered, was an addition of iifty-four members by profession. The number that united with the Baptist church, I cannot tell. It seemed then, as if it could not be, that there should be such a lowering down as would be like night after a bright and glorious day. But oh ! what wonderful changes we have witnessed, which should humble our souls, while we rejoice in the goodness of God, that after his spirit has been grieved away, and his people gone away backward, he should remem- ber them in mercy. Again, in the year 1812, was a short season of the special display of the mercy of God, and twen- ty-five were added to the church. After this, only now and then a mercy drop was found to fall, until the year 1826, which was a year more distinguished than any other in the annals of this church. God wrought gloriously, every part of the town was visited, and so manifest was the work of God, that for a time, all opposition seemed to be silenced, and the fruit of this glorious revival, was an addition to this church, of sixty-two members. Oh ! that we may soon see such another day of the mercy and goodness of God. As the fruits of this revival, there were added to the church in 1826 and in 1827, seventy-nine members; in 1831, twenty- one, and in 1834 and 1835, thirty-two. Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations, and think what changes will shortly take place here. When I look around on this assembly, I can see but one of 72 MEMOIR OF THE the number of those, -who from this town joined the church in New Ipswich, and removed their relation at the time of my settlement. Then they were young-, but Avherc are they ? I can see but two [Jonathan Batcheldcr, and the widow Polly Dunster] of all the thirty-six, which composed the church in that solemn hour, when I was constituted their pastor. Where are they ? Some have removed to other churches, and perhaps remain on earth, but most of them have fallen asleep. Oh ! how near at hand, should this view bring the time of our own departure ; how excite us to be up and doing-, while it is day. It is matter of rejoicing certainly to me, that when we leave this house, we have a place of worship to which we may repair, and that, although I minister no longer in this house, or any other, I do not leave you as sheep without a shepherd. Where will be the present inhabitants of this town, after the revolution of such another period as we have contem- plated. Certainly, with many, the places that now know them, shall know them no more. Some few may remain on earth, monuments of God's sparing mercy and goodness. It is hoped, that many will be shouting the praises of redeem- ing love in heaven ; and oh ! distressing thought ! it is feared that some will be wailing their folly and madness, in eternal despair. What changes may be expected to take place, in half a century to come, in this church and congregation, and the inhabitants of this town. The farms we now culti- vate with so much care, will have passed into other hands. The houses we now inhabit, will not be inhabited by us then. This house, which has been consecrated to God, for his ser- vice, and the place where he has displayed his mercy, will then be mouldered into ruins. The house to which we are about to remove will become old, and the religious assembly will be another generation ; while we shall probably all be sleeping in dust. Yes, that communion table will be surrounded with other members, unless God in his wrath shall remove his candlestick. Not REV. EBENEZER HILL. 73 only will these seats be vacated by this assembly, not only will the present communicants cease from coming to this table, not only will these walls cease to resound with the voice of praise from the lips of this assembly, but the house in which we are to worship after this day, will be filled with other worshipers than those who may have the privilege to unite with us in the first religious exercises in that earthly temple. In thirty years another generation will occupy our present places. It is right that as we leave this house, we should leave it under the impression of such remarkable truths. I cannot however, say farewell to this house, before once more calling on christian brethren and sisters, to remember the time is short, and to do with their might what they have to do ; think not your work is done because you leave this house of wor- ship. Keep in grateful remembrance the works of God. Take courage from his precious promises and his dealings with his people, in the years that are gone, be instant in season and out of season. Cease not to plead with G-od, for the outpouring of his spirit upon this church and congre- gation. Let your light so shine, that others seeing your good works, may come and put their trust in that God and Saviour you love and adore. Oh ! sinners, this is the last message to you from this place, you can have but little time left, the door of mercy is now open ; ! fly to the Saviour, who stands with open arms to receive you, while it is yet an accepted time, and a day of salvation. I now bid farewell in my own name, and in the name of this church and congregation, to this house as a place of wor- ship, as the place of our solemn assemblies. Farewell to this Pulpit : to me indeed, for many years, the dearest spot on earth. And although I expect not to labor any more in this pulpit, if I do in any other, I never shall think of this place, and remember the days of old, without such associations as will be calculated to move the feelings of humility and gratitude. 74 MEMOIR OP *rHE Farewell to this House, which has been the place, in "Which we have witnessed many painful and joyous scenes. ! may these walls, once consecrated to God, never be desecrated or poUutcd, by being made the place where infidelity or error shall be disseminated ; or the spirit of party, manage to subvert the freedom of this favored land. OLD MEETING liOlSE. EIKST OCCUPIED NOVEMBER t 1790. NEW Ml FIRST OCCUPIED NOVEMBER, 1837. REV. EBENEZER HILL. 75 A FUNERAL SERMON, DELIVERED AT MASON, N. H., ON LORD^S DAY, DECEMBER 10, 1826, OCCASIONED BY THE DEATH OP CAPTAIN HIKAM SMITH, Who Deceased December 6, 1826, Aged 2§ Years. BY REV. EBENEZER HILL. JOB XXI. 23, 24, 25, 2 One dieth in his full strength, being wholly at ease and quiet. His breasts are full of milk, and his bones are moistened with marrow. And another dieth in the bitterness of his soul, and never eateth with pleasure. They shall lie down alike in the dust, and the worms shall cover them. One interesting point of instruction conveyed in these words of the aged, experienced, and afflicted Job, is mani- festly this. The grave may be very near to the most pros- perous, and healthy, and strong, as well as to those who endure the greatest afflictions, and most severe sufferings. I shall endeavor, briefly, to establish this truth, in order to exhibit some of the important instructions which the great uncertainty of life seems forcibly to convey to us all ; and to prepare the way for such application and addresses as the solemn scene which so lately passed before our eyes, together with others of no long date, seem to require. Job was a man of very eminent piety. It appears from divine testimony, that he exceeded all the men on earth in his day, in devotedness to God, and in labor after inward 76 MEMOIR OF THE purity, and practical holiness. "Ilast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and eschewetli evil?" Job was a wise man ; a man of good understanding; a man of much and careful observation. It is evident he was well acquainted with the history of preceding ages, so far as this was handed down by tradition ; and he had atten- tively observed the dispensations of Divine Providence in his own day. The remark in the text was the result of his own observation, confirmed by the testimony of the fathers, who had lived long before him. And the same truth has been gaining additional evidence in every age of the world since, down to the present day. " One dieth in his full strength, being wholly at ease and quiet. His breasts are full of milk and his bones arc moistened with marrow. And another dieth in the bitterness of his soul, and never eateth with pleasure. They shall lie down in the dust, and the worms shall cover them." This truth also comes to us with authority ; being written by the pen of inspiration, preserved by the providence of God, and making a part of the holy scriptures. let us feel our personal interest in this solemn truth ! As we know that it is appointed to all men once to die ; as we know that we are of the dust, and must return to dust again ; so we are taught in the text, that we are not sure of any long previous warning of the time of our dissolution. No circumstances in life can give any security that death is not at the door. If to be full of strength, and free from any disease, the blood and spirits flowing with life and vigor, can give no secu- rity for the continuance of life ; then surely no attachments to life, no worldly circumstances, no pleasing prospects, no connections formed, no engagements made, can give the least assurance that the grave is not just before us. How often do we see this melancholy truth demonstrated ! We do not need to repair to the chronicles of ancient times for evidence tliat the young, even children, and the sprightly youths of fairest REV. EBENEZER HILL. 77 promise, may suddenly drop into an untimely grave. Neitlier need we go far for proof that the young, the strong and vig- orous — their parents' hope, their parents' joy, while in the full enjoyment of health, — their warm and lively imaginations painting bright prospects before them, which seem to them certain ; perhaps forming connections, which they fondly believe will be lasting, and on which they ground the warmest expectations of happiness — we need not, I say, go far for proof, that such may, in an unexpected hour, fall into the cold embrace of death. Parents, while they feel not, or scarcely begin to feel any of the decays of nature ; while their nerves are strong, and their bodily organs are able to perform their functions with ease, and they behold with joy, their children like olive plants around their tables, or settling in the world with hopeful prospects — no sickness, no apparent messenger of death alarms them — theij may drop and die in the fulness of their strength ; or their children may fall before their eyes. In either case, how unlooked for, how surprising the change ! Circumstances in life give no more security against death, than health. Death spares the rich no more than the poor. Engagements, of whatever kind, are unavailing to protect against death. We may have much upon our hands to do, much unfinished business, according to our promises to others, or plans which we have laid out for ourselves ,• but as our full strength will not be able to withstand, so our engage- ments and promises will not move death to delay his stroke, when commissioned to strike. And oftentimes there is little or no warning given, by any previous indisposition, before the strong man is made to bow. One dieth in his full strength, being wholly at ease and quiet, as well as another at whose door death had seemed to knock, by long continued, or fre- quent sicknesses. Death, in unnumbered forms, stalks in every path we tread. The grave is ever before us, and we are constantly approach- ing it ; and no one can say that the next step is not into it. 11 78 MEMOIR OP THE As David said of himself, so it may be with us, "There is but a step between me and death." The prophet was directed to cry, "All flesh is grass, and all the goodness thereof as the flower of the field. The grass withcrcth and the flower fadeth; because the Spirit of the Lord bloweth upon it. Surely the people is gr9,ss." Job also, guided by the Holy Spirit, hath said, "Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble. He comcth forth as a flower, and is cut down; he fleeth also as a shadoAv, and continucth not." Surely then no one may consistently boast himself of to-morrow. However firm his health now is, he may then be in his grave. It is not my intention to labor to prove a truth so evident in frequent occurrences. I have barely reminded you, my fellow-mortals, of what we all admit, I trust, and what every one must admit, who receives testimony of God, or only casts his eye over a little space around him ; and I have done it for this purpose, that our minds might be prepared to receive the instruction which such facts press upon all the living. You will sufi"er me to state, and, I beseech all duly to weigh, some consequences which must follow from the forego- ing acknowledged facts. And, 1, If then in the midst of life we are in death; if, in the fullness of our strength, and in our brightest worldly pros- pects, we are liable every moment to be cut down by death, and in the grave to be hidden from the world and all it con- tains ; to have all our connections dissolved, and to leave all our earthly enjoyments behind us forever; then, certainly, they are miserably poor who have no better interest than what this world affords ; nor enjoyments superior to all those of time and sense. Though they be now free from suffering pain, in full health and strength ; though placed in the most easy and flattering circumstances, and having the brightest earthly prospects before them, they are poor indeed 1 We may feel ourselves to-day to be full and happy in our wealth and friends ; but if these be all we have, in one short hour EEV, EBENEZER HILL. 79 Is not vanity inscribed on all this world, when immortal beings seek their happiness in it ; and neither the most vigorous health, nor the greatest abundance, nor the most endeared connections and friends, can save us a moment from death ; and as soon as death passes upon us we must leave the world as naked as we came into it ! 0, if we have not a better inheritance, richer enjoyments, and more glorious prospects than all this world can aiford, we are in an unenviable, in a most pitiable state. 2. A correct view of the uncertainty of life, the certainty of death, and the change produced by death, shews the ines- timable value of Religion. It is only religion, personal religion, which consists in con- formity of heart to the character and government of God, and the gospel of salvation by Jesus Christ, that can reconcile the mind to leave the world, support it in the near view of death, and render the soul happy after death. then, of what incalculable worth is religion ; since we an must die, leave kindred and friends, and possessions behind us, and launch into the eternal world. Nothing but that glorious hope which springs from feeling reconciliation to God, trust in Christ's atoning blood for the pardon of sin, and belief in the promise of his favor forever, can enable us to view the "world receding, and the constant, near and certain approach of death, without dismay. And it is only evidence that they possessed this religion, which can give us consoling hopes, and comfort our hearts, concerning those who were dear to us, but are hidden from our eyes in the cold grave. It is this religion only which fits the soul for heaven. Who then can conceive, much less express the danger of every soul, desti- tute of religion, and thus unprepared to die. For no one knows the day of his death ; and there is no change of moral character after death. There is no work, nor devise, nor knowledge, nor wisdom in the grave ; yet the soul must exist forever, and in a state to be decided according to the charac- ter formed, and the deeds done in the body : Who then can 80 MEMOIR OF THE rest without evidence of a heart by grace subdued to the will and service of God ? without evidence of vital union to the Lord Jesus Christ, the only Savior of sinners ? Surely to know Jesus Christ, and him crucified ; to know him as the Savior in whom we trust, whom we love, and whom we serve, must be that wisdom which is thus described by the king of Israel, "Wisdom is more precious than rubies; her merchan- dise is better than the merchandise of silver ; and the gain thereof than fine gold. She is a tree of life to them that lay hold on her; and happy is every one that retaineth her." O, who can dare, in this dying world, to believe his own immor- tality, and not seek this treasure ! 3. The view which has been presented, of the close con- nection between us and death, between every thing here and the grave, should teach us to live habitually as strangers and travelers in this dying world, and not to set our affections on things below. Surely our hearts ought to sit very loose to all things .we wold by such an uncertain tenure as life. And to make anything which is purely of this world, our con- fidence, our hope, our idol, is not only exceedingly criminal but exceedingly absurd. Why should we cleave so fast to that which we may so soon be called to leave forever ? if the case be with us as has been represented, how careful should we be not to suffer any inferior attachment to hinder us in seeking the present enjoyment of God, and laboring to secure an heirship to the glories of his heavenly kingdom. In attempting an application of the subject to the assem- bly at large, the few aged people present will permit me to offer a word directly to them in the first place. Is it true, my aged friends, that some die in youth, yea, die in their full strength, being wholly at ease and quiet ? Have you walked so many years on earth, that but few of all your youthful acquaintances are left ? then, while you well may wonder that you are alive this day, you may know that the time of your departure is at hand. Althougli you have been wonderfully spared, you have not obtained a discharge from REV. EBENEZER HILL. 81 the warfare. You must meet the king of terrors. Are you prepared now to meet death ? Are you prepared to stand in the presence of the holy God? If any of you have lived to this day without returning to God by unfeigned repent- ance, and by faith in Jesus Christ, not only death, but ever- lasting destruction is before you. The sparing mercy of God, if you have rejected, and continue to reject his grace, offered in the gospel, will only aggravate your condemnation. then, while a few more sands may run, and you are continued pris- oners of hope, turn to the strong hold. If any of you, aged friends, have a comforting evidence that you are prepared, through grace, for a peaceful death, see that ye be as servants Avho watch and wait for the coming of their Lord at an unknown hour. From the aged, I turn to call upon the middle aged, and young people. I ask you, dear friends, to consider, in view of the subject, and the occasion of it, and let your own understanding answer the following questions. Is it possible that you can have any business, or concerns of so much imme- diate importance as the immediate care of your souls ? Is there any thing you cannot neglect with more propriety, and less hazard than preparation for death ? Can you believe that you may die in the fulness of your strength, and yet dare to live to another day without seeking God ! Can any of you dare, not to attempt now to do what you must wish you had done, but it may be too late to do, when you feel the cold hand of death ? But it is expected that some particular address will be made to the mourners ; made mourners indeed, by the affect- ing instance of mortality which has been publicly mentioned this day ; and for whom, I trust, many have earnestly prayed, that they may be sanctified, and supported, and comforted, under their heavy trial. To the dear friend of the deceased we first look, and with no ordinary feelings of sympathetic grief. How has this truth, thus painfully realized, " one dieth in his full strength," 82 MEMOm OP THE struck a death blow to your pleasing earthly prospects ; per* haps fond dreams of years to enjoy the society of a beloved friend ; and that ye might go down the vale of years together. Perhaps you were anticipating much worldly comfort and res- pect, by your mutual efforts, and mutual kindness. Perhaps hoping that you might be helpers of each other's joy in a wearisome journey to a brighter world. Death has stepped in, and the bright visions have disappeared. Your friend is gone ! But while the scene through which you have passed, is heart affecting, and long must be, it is instructing ; for it is the voice of God. He does not forbid you to mourn ; and no one may ; but He calls you to take up the cross, to humble yourself under his miglity hand, to bear the yoke of trouble in your youth j and you have the prayers of many that you may find it good for you. I say, the scene through which you have passed, is instruct- ing. You cannot easily be taught, and more impressively, the uncertainty of life, and the importance of being prepared for death, at an unwarned hour. You cannot have set before you, more feelingly, the uncertainty of all earthly prospects. But are you comfortless ? there is a source of consolation always open for the afflicted. God reigns. The heavenly Father reigns. He who afflicts calls the afflicted to seek him early in their afflictions. We hope you know the way to the mercy-scat through a crucified Savior. Draw near in humble boldness in his name, and he who has laid this burthen on you will support you. let the loss of an earthly friend render the Friend of sinners more precious to your heart. Let the disappointments in human calculations raise your heart above the world, and lead you to seek divine consolations, and press forward towards the mark for the prize of the high calling, and you will find lasting benefit from the scenes, which for the present are so grievous. If Christ be indeed the friend of your heart, he will never leave nor forsake you. And you may look forward to a sudden death and an early grave with composure ; or quietly wait all the days of your appointed REV. EBENEZER HILL. 83 time, till your change sliall come, even though you continually bear a cross. To the bereaved parents all our eyes turn, and our hearts move with tenderness. God has been very gracious to you, in bestowing an uncom- mon share of health in your family. Your children have all been spared to grow up to manhood ; and the voice of health has been heard almost constantly in your habitation. Now grievous sickness and death have entered your home. The breach is made. A beloved son is taken away in the fulness of his strength; and while your hopes and fond expectations were rising, and his prospects brightening. How suddenly, how unlooked for, has your trouble come ! But you will remember, mourning friends, " Affliction cometh not foi'th of the dust, neither doth trouble spring out of the ground." You will eye the hand of God, which has touched you in this event ; and listen to his voice. It is. Prepare suddenly to exchange time for eternity. You see a breach made in your family, which is a sure presage that all the rest must go, and that you must follow, or precede them. You see that you are not sure of wearing out with old age, or that you shall have long warning of the approach of death. Healthy, promising, children are apt to be their parents' hope in their declining years : but you are now feelingly admonished not to lean on such props. let the Lord be your confidence, and then, though all earthly props sink under you, you will be sup- ported and comforted ; for in every affliction you may repair to him, and he will be found a present help. Your age admonishes you that your time must be short; but what scenes of trouble, what sore disappointments are first to be endured, you do not, and cannot know. You are to look for troubles in this world. May you be favored with the teach- ings of the Holy Spirit, and make a wise improvement of this affliction, and be prepared for what is to come. We wish you divine consolation. God has inflicted the wound, and He alone can heal. You may lose the sensible and pun- 84 MEMOIR OF THE gent feeling of your trouble ; time will render the remem- brance less painful ; Init it is only God -who can heal the wound, and repair the breach. What can I now say to the brethren and sisters of the deceased ? what need I say ? The voice of God speaks to you loudly, and most intelligibly. A beloved brother has fallen in the prime of life, in the fulness of his strength. Your health, your strength, your prime of life, can no more secure you against the arrest of death. Dear friends, be entreated to listen to the voice of Providence, which calls you to attend to the concerns of your souls, without delay. And, 0, listen to the dying request of your brother. Did you witness his anxiety for his own soul, and for your souls ? Did you hear his warning, supplicating voice, while his reason lasted, urging you to seek religion ; to become reconciled to God without delay ? Did you hear him reprobate the senti- ment he had labored to believe, and warn you against it ? Did you hear him declare his full conviction of his own just condemnation as a sinner ; and that the only hope of escap- ing everlasting death was through the atoning blood of Christ, even by faith in him ? 0, then, rely upon it, the time will come when the favor of God, peace in the soul, and hope like an anchor, sure and steadfast, will be found, by you, to be of more value than the whole world, and all the fulness thereof. When shall this be sought ? You may die suddenly, in the fulness of your strength. You may be deprived of reason before the close of life ; and then nothing can be done to prepare for death. It is certain you must die, the time is unknown ; and when death has his commission to strike, he is inexorable. then let not the plea be made in vain, acquaint now yourselves Avith God, and be at peace with him, that good may come to your souls. On this solemn occasion the oflicers and soldiers composing the Militia Company of which the late Hiram Smith was Cap- tain, have a right to be particularly noticed in this address ; for they are specially afflicted in this mournful event of REV. EBENEZER HILL. 85 Divine Providence ; for they are, indeed, mourners, as their appearance at his funeral, and on this holy day, clearly mani- fests. How affecting, how alarming have been the calls of Provi- dence to this Company ! In the short space of one year and a half, two Captains, young and active, have been cut down, not by the sword of battle, but by that foe with whom each one, officer and soldier, must contend in single combat, and before whom each one must fall. You, respected officers and soldiers, notwithstanding the military parade you make, live in a time of profound peace in your country. There are no apparent indications that you may soon be called to active service. Why then all this mili- tary parade ? Why all these pains to learn the discipline and art of war ? 0, methinks I hear you say, "It is the dic- tate of wisdom, in peace to prepare for war. It is uncertain how soon we may be called to defend by force and arms, our dearest rights, and jeopardize our lives in the high field of battle ; and what then, if found unacquainted with the art of war, wholly unprepared, undisciplined, unarmed ? " Forcible reasoning ! let it apply with all its aptness, with all its force, in another case. Here I may address you as fellow soldiers, although I am unacquainted with all your military manoeuvres. Before us is a war in which there is no dis- charge ; no engagements, nor attachments, nor fears, can be an excuse. Here, is it not equally the dictate of wisdom, In peace prepare for war? that we should arm ourselves with that armor which will not fail in the day of battle ; acquaint ourselves with the holy discipline, and become expert in the use of those arms ? When called to combat with the com- mon enemy, death, and all the innumerable foes of our souls' salvation, it is only when clad in the whole armor of God, the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, the sword of the spirit, and the breast-plate of righteousness, that we can come ojff conquerors and more than conquerors. Thus armed and disciplined, we shall be crowned with victory, 12 86 MEMOIR OP THE althouf^h the enemy shall seem to triumph. You now, fellow men, appear as soldiers. But are you soldiers of the cross ? are you marching in the ranks of the great Captain of salva- tion, and obeying his orders ? Then may you proceed boldly. But whatever leader you may follow, when you fall as you must, you fall to rise no more. Hence, whenever you meet on military occasions, your very manoeuvres are calculated to remind you of interesting truths, and to convey to you important instruction. And it seems strange that in a christian laud, military meetings are not generally solemn meetings. Every word of command given, every manoeuvre performed, every step marched to the music should remind you of the necessity of preparation for the great conflict, and of the danger of being untrained to the holy war. Can this Comjiany meet again and trifle with the art of war ? Can a training be a season of rude merriment after this ? Can the soldiers, who see their officers fall before them, feel safe, until they have enlisted under the great Cap- tain of salvation, Jesus Christ, the same forever ? This day you see, you have painful evidence, that the art of war cannot defend from death. No more can any other arts or devices. Your Captain was esteemed a good officer ; but he has fallen. Death did not respect him: no more will he respect yo7i. Soldiers may inconsiderately brave death in the field of bat- tle ; but it is only the christian soldier who has true courage in the hour of danger, and can contemplate the constant approach of death without dismay. It is not courage, it is dreadful hardiness to jeopardize life fearlessly without the prevailing hope of a happy eternity. Soldiers, you acknowledge Captain Smith was a good officer. But you may rely upon it, for I had it from his own lips, he felt the worth of his immortal soul ; he acknowledged himself justly condemned as a sinner ; with lively emotions he mourned his past neglects ; and he was anxious for the salvation that is in Christ. Now will you not be anxious for salvation ? can concern for the soul be unbecoming a soldier ? REV. EBENEZER HILL. 8!? To yoti, the surviving officers in this Company, this day must be a solemn day. Who can be the successor to your late Captain, and look back one year and a half, and not tremble ? Who can rise to a higher grade and not tremble ? But why speak of this ? Each one, whether he rise in rank or not, must bow to the king of terrors, and go to that world from which there is no return. Who, which of you, is prepared to follow next ? whose turn will it be next ? This is a question no man can answer. One in his full strength as likely as one who is diseased and feeble. then, let me affectionately entreat you, and not entreat in vain, to take care of your souls. Now give yourselves to Christ. Delay no longer. Receive him as your commander ; rely on his righteousness; believe and obey his word. Then, and not till then, may you live in peace, die in peace, and be crowned with victory. MEMOIR OF THE THE SUBSTANCE OF TWO LECTURES ON TBB HISTORY OF MASON, DELIVERED BEFORE THE LYCEUM IN MASON VILLAGE. BY REV. EBENEZER HILL. CORRESPONDENCE. To THE Rev. Ebenezer Hill, Dear Sir : — We, whose names are here subscrihed, were appointed a cora* mittee, to request a copy for publication, of your recent instructive and inter- esting discourse upon the early history of Mason, delivered before the !Mason Village Lyceum. Desirous of preserving the history of the past, and admon- ished by your advanced age, that we cannot long hope to enjoy your society, ■\ve trust you Avill comply with our request. Yours truly, GEOUGE ELLIOT, THOMAS H. MARSHALL, D. F. RICHARDSON. Mason Tillage, February 24, 1846. To George Elliot, Esq., Dr. Thomas H. Marshall, and Rev. D. F. Richardson, Gentlemen : — The request of the Lyceum, made through you, of a copy of the Lectures on the History of the Town, delivered last winter, I cannot refuse. Yet I am constrained to appreciate the request, rather as a mark of respect to old age, than as an evidence of merit in the performance. Various hindrances have caused delay in examining facts, and in transcribing and preparing the copy. Such as it is, I cheerfully present it to you, and through you. Gentlemen, to the members of the Lyceum, with many warm wishes for the spiritual and temporal prosperity of the risen and rising gen- eration. Very respectfully your friend and humble servant, EBENEZER HILL. Mason, May 1, 1846. HEV. EBENEZER HILL. 89 LECTURE. Most people take pleasure in reading history, and learning the events of ancient days. But when the history relates to scenes in which their immediate ancestors were concerned — to events which have a bearing on their own state and condi- tion, the interest deepens as they proceed. Who will not find entertainment and profit in reading the history of England from its earliest period ? But as the time approaches when our forefathers were forced to leave their pleasant dwellings and their beloved country, and seek an asylum in a newly discovered continent, where they might enjoy civil and religious liberty, what man of common sensi- bility — certainly, what true American, is not moved more and more ? And is there even a scholar in our common schools, who can read the landing of the pilgrims on the rock in Ply- mouth, and the severe sufferings they had to endure, and the labors they had to perform, without feeling his heart beat quick within him ? But history, whether civil, ecclesiastical, or biographical, not only affords entertainment, but in a pleasing manner valuable instruction. Nor is it necessary that the history should abound in marvelous and wonder- stirring events, to render it pleasant and profitable. Entertaining these views, I am led to believe that the his- tory of Mason may be thus useful to the present inhabitants of the town, and especially to the young people ,• and in com- pliance with a special request, I now attempt to present such 90 MEMOIR OP THE facts relative to this town, and its early inhabitants, as I have been able to collect, from records which have come into my hands, and from conversation had with old people, almost all of whom are now — as we must shortly be — in the grave. The land included in this town is part of a grant made to Captain John Mason, of London, by the king of England, and it appears from records that certain persons bought of John Tufton Mason, heir of John Mason, a tract of his said grant in New Hampshire, containing about 77 square miles, of which tract this town is a part. At a meeting of these proprietors by purchase of Mason, held at Portsmouth, Joseph Blanchard, of Dunstable, was accredited their agent ; and as such, in their name, by deed or charter, conveyed to a company, whose names are expressed in the instrument, a certain tract of land five miles square, which was the dimension and shape of this town in its original grant : but afterwards a strip of land containing 200 acres was taken from No. 2, now Wilton, and annexed to No. 1, so called; also when the Province line was run between Massachusetts and New Hampshire, a gore of land was cut off from Townsend, and annexed to Mason ; so that it was no longer square, but Mader from North to South than from East to "West. The charter or deed was executed June 16, 1749 ; and the names of thirty -four men are inserted in the instrument as grantees ; most of whom, as far as I can judge by the names and other circumstances, were from the towns of Dunstable, HoUis, Groton, Peppercll and Townsend. This township, thus obtained, was designated No. 1, in the Province of New Hampshire, north or back of Townsend. In the charter were certain reservations, which shew the regard, both grantors and grantees had for the education of the youth, and the moral and religious instruction of all, as well as for the comfort of the early settlers. For instance, two lots of land were reserved for encouragement to build mills ; six acres were reserved for a common, wherever the meeting house should bo located. Three shares were EEV. EBENEZER HILL. 91 reserved for other uses, viz : One share to the first settled minister ; one share for the ministry from generation to gen- eration.* This riglit has been disposed of, and I say happily disposed of, (notwithstanding the good intentions of the grantors, and perhaps the illegality of the act,) for in this day it is not a bone of contention. A third share was reserved for the support of schools ; and it is a matter of regret that this also is disposed of. There were not only reservations, but also conditions in the charter. The first condition was that a meeting house should be built by the grantees, for the use of the inhabi- tants; and built as near the centre, as by the grantees should be judged most convenient. The time for this to be done was limited to May, 1753. Such a house within about three rods north east of the now Old Meeting House, was erected, enclosed and covered, and little more ever done to it. Thus, it remained the place of worship, until after what is now called the Old Meeting House in the centre was occupied.f Another condition in the charter was, that on some lot in each share, three acres should be cleared, enclosed, and fitted for mowing or tillage in two years from the date ; and on each should be a house at least sixteen feet square, and seven feet or more studded, with a chimney and cellar, fitted for a dwelling, and some person or family inhabit it, before the last of May, 1752; and residence be continued until May, 1755. The settlement of the town advanced slowly. Yet it appears from the report of a committee, appointed to ascer- tain who had not performed their duty, that in three years after the grant, twenty-three settlements had been begun — few had more than eight acres cleared, and the greatest clearing was twenty acres. Two good houses, one barn and * Supposed to be three lots. f This house was afterwards torn down ; and at the time the following' incident took place. When the frame was all down except the four posts confined by the gallery sills, Amos Dakin was standing on one of these sills, when the remainder of the frame swayed and fell. He kept his place until almost to the ground, and then leaped and fell flat j the timber just passed over him, and he received no injury. 92 MEMOIR OF THE a young orchard were reported. What kind of houses, the first were, may be gathered from this circumstance, that Mr. Obadiah Parker's house was tlic first framed house in the town, perhaps the only one, at that time,* and only two were called good. From which we may conclude that twenty-one out of the twenty-three were made of round logs, or at best with square timber; but one of these log houses remains to this day.f When the settlements were very few, instead of being compact, as might have been expected from the social nature of man, they were* scattered to almost every part of the town, Enosh Lawrence, whose axe was first heard to resound in our forests, was from Pepperell, and Ijcgan his settlement in the south part of the town, where Ephraim Ilil- dreth now lives. His wife was the first white woman in the town, and lived to old age. Nathan Hall, known here as Deacon Hall, also from Pepperell, began next to Mr. Law- rence, and settled in the north part, where Joseph Saunders now lives. Obadiah Parker located himself on the west side of the town. There were only three women in the town, when Mrs. Parker left her relatives and friends in Chelms- ford, to accompany her husband into this wilderness, which was then considered as almost the far West. Thomas Tarbell settled in the east, where some of his descendants now live, and a Mr. Powers located in the extreme east. For a time the only place that appeared like a neighborhood was on the hill, where deacon Hall settled. Soon after him Henry Jefts began where Jonathan Batchelder lives ; Nathan Fish where L-a Hall lately lived, and one Samuel Tarbell where Luther Nutting lives. The character of the first settlers was that of plain, honest farmers. Most of them, in the common language of the world, were poor. Some of them had scarcely more than their clothes, their axe and a little provision. They were *This is the old house on the place where Samuel Wheeler Westou now lives, t The house in which Stephen Foster now resides. REV. EBENEZER HILL. 93' also men of little education, and their children suffered greatly for want of schooling. Would our children and youth know how great their privi- leges are, and how to prize them, let them, in imagination, go back fifty or sixty years, and place themselves for a little time beside those of their age at that period. The children were then so widely scattered, that for a time it was imprac- ticable to form them into schools. The standard of educa- tion also was low. A man who could read plain reading, and cypher to the Rule of Three, was considered qualified to teach a common school. And even in the early days of your fathers, my young friends, when they went to school they had not a well constructed and comfortable school house. Most commonly they had a room in some private house, miserably fitted up with benches to sit on, and a kind of tottering table on which to write, and not unfrequently scarcely light enough to see to read. Add to all this, they had very few books in schools or in families. In many places scholars seldom if ever heard in school of English Grammar, Geography, Natu- ral Philosophy, Mathematics, &c., which are studies now brought within the reach of almost every youth. If therefore the present generation do not exceed the preceding in useful learning, great blame must be attached to them. Our forefathers, and mothers too, who subdued the wilder- ness before them, were a hardy and an industrious race. The prime object of their clothing was comfort, and their food was very uniform and plain. Tea was not known among them in this early period. In summer, milk and bread was the food, especially of children, morning and evening; and in the winter, as a general thing, they had a good boiled dish for dinner, which laid the foundation for a supper, and for a breakfast next morning for the family. And I presume those early inhabitants of the town never heard of such a disease as dyspepsia. They were not distinguishingly subject to fevers ; and cases of consumption were very rare ; and where they did occur, they were slow in their progress — not unfre- 13 94 MEMOIR OF THE quently did it take years to do the work, which consumption now sometimes performs in a few weeks. Also, when our hardy ancestors were going through the toil of subduing the wilderness, they did not have ardent spirits to cool them in the heat of labor, when toiling in the sun, or to warm tlicm when buffeting the storms, or enduring the cold of winter. Another trait in the character of the early settlers of Xo. 1, is to be distinctly noticed, or we shall injure them. Most of them were brought up where the holy Sabbath was regarded, and they were accustomed to hear the gospel preached. They did not, when removed far from the sanctu- ary, and from the ordinances of the gospel, feel as if this were a desired freedom. They not only made early efforts, even before they were an incorporate body, to have occasional preaching, but they were desirous of having a minister settled among them ; and few and feeble as they were, they did not shrink from the effort on account of the expense. As early as 1753, the proprietors and inhabitants voted to allow sixty pounds (Old Tenor undoubtedly,) to pay for preaching, and from this time it appears they had preaching more or less every year. Previous to this, they had voted to build a meeting house, agreed upon the dimensions, appointed a committee, and directed them "to enclose the house, lay the under floor, and build a convenient place for the minister to stand in to preach." This was an arduous undertaking considering their number, and especially that they had no mill, in which they could prepare materials for building from their own forests. But it was done. And having a house for worship, they were not satisfied with preaching part of the time. They voted to settle a minister as early as 1762, i. e., in thirteen years after the grant of the township. At the same time they gave a call to Mr. Ebenczer Champney, (the late Judge Champney, of New Ipswich,) to settle with them; and offered him as settlement "700 £ silver, 0. T. £400 salary yearly, and a right of land." This was a generous offer considering their EEV. EBENEZER HILL. 95 number and circumstances. I have named these sums more particularly for the benefit, or perhaps the amusement, of the young people, who may wish for some information respecting this Old Tenor, and its valuation. The currency of our ancestors in New England was reck- oned in j)ounds, shillings and pence, and was called Old Tenor, in distinction from another valuation of the same denominations of money, called Lawful money, or sometimes New Tenor. Now although the same terms were used in both, their meaning, or valuation was widely different. The denomination in Old Tenor was just seven and a half times less in value, than the same in Lawful money. Hence to reduce LaAvful money into Old Tenor is to multiply it by 7^, and to reduce Old Tenor into Lawful money, divide by the same. Hence we see that the offer made to Mr. Champney was, in the present currency of the day, |311 12 cents settle- ment, and $177 78 cents salary."^ Mr. Champney did not accept the call ; nevertheless the people were not discouraged. In 176G, they gave a call to one James Parker, with an offer of £400 0. T., until there were eighty families, and then ,£450 until one hundred families, from which time the salary should be established at X500. This call was not accepted ; and it does not appear that any other like attempt was made, until an act of incorporation was obtained. These hardy pioneers not only suffered many privations, but endured many severe hardships. Not the least of these was the labor of making roads, and for years the badness of traveling, where something was done to make a road. And until they could raise some grain on their new farms, all their bread stuffs, and most of their other provisions must be brought from the older settlements. The instance of hard- ship, which I am about to name, may be an extreme case, but it may help our young friends to form some idea of the suffer- ings incident to new settlers, especially to those, who are * Thus £700-:-7i=£93, 6, 8 Lawful=$311 11-1- settlement. Again, £400 O. T.-:-by 7i= £53 6s. 8d. Lawful=to $177 78-1-cents. 86 MEMOIR OF THfi poor and destitute. Deacon Hall, who has been named, 1 have been informed, after having toiled all day on his farm, has in the night traveled on foot to Peppcrcll, and returned bringing a bag of meal on his shoulder for his hungry chil- dren ; and then labored the next day as usual. Not the least of the sufferings, and the cause of continued suffering, arose from their ignorance of clearing wood land, by felling the trees and then burning the ground over. I have been told by some of them that for several years, the only method of clearing the forest was to chop the wood, draw it together, pile it, burn the heaps, and then break up the ground with the plough, or breaking-up hoe, before plant- ing or sowing. This accounts in some measure for the slow progress they at first made in clearing. Again, the people suffered very much for years from want of mills. It was a primary object with the grantees and first settlers to have mills erected ; and, as encouragement, mill seats were looked out, and land granted and contracts made, but I can find no evidence, of a mill of any description in the town before the year 1766 or 7. In the year 1767, I find an article in a warrant for a meeting of the proprietors, to see if they will accept the road by Thomas Barrett's mill, and build a bridge across Souhegan river, near said mill. It appears that Benjamin Bellows, Esq., contracted to build mills at this place, but did not fulfil his contract. And also that Thomas Barrett and Charles Barrett built mills in this place, and sold them to Amos Dakin, of Lincoln, Mass., who removed with his family into this town in the year 1768. At that time, seventy-eight years since, there was no opening in the dense forest, where this village now stands, except for the mill, and a spot cleared for a house. In 1767, Elias Elliot's mill was accepted by the proprietors. I have also evidence that not far from the same time, a mill was erected in the east part of the town, on the Ward place so called, where Mr. Bennet now lives. Now think how much the people must have suffered who REV. EBfiNEZER HILE. 97 lived ten or fifteen years, where, if they raised any grain they must carry it to Townsend or Pepperell, and sometimes even to Groton, to have it made into meal ; and although they had timber in abundance, they could not have a board, but it must come from another town. Yet they submitted to these inconveniences and hardships with cheerfulness, and perse- vered in labor, till they had prepared for the comfort of their children. Not only did the men display courage, and resolution, and public spirit, but I have been told by the women themselves, that they have traveled, some two, and some three miles through the woods, with nothing to direct their way but marked trees, to carry dinner to their husbands, when work- ing at the meeting house. I believe that some of my hearers Would think such a case a great hardship, if the case was theirs. But, however strong female fortitude may be in duty, where none are exposed to danger but themselves, how must the tender mother suffer, if her young children are absent a little longer than was expected, or if out of sight when the light of day departs — where the wolves and other wild animals are so numerous, that their noise in the night would break those of their rest, who had toiled all day, and needed the refreshment of sleep ? Many of the early settlers reared up and left large families, and their descendants are numerous in the town; but some of the families are almost extinct. Our fathers, where are they ? Many of them lived to be old. But they are gone.* As to natural curiosities, this town does not abound in them. There are no very remarkable caverns, or precipices, or streams ; and we all know that the face of the ground is uneven, and the soil is stony. There is, however, in the deep * A case I will here name as very uncommon and remarkable. Deacon Hall, of whom I have spoken, built him a house in the early period of his settlement, and dwelt in it, with his fam- ily (which was not small) to his old age — till it was no longer habitable, and never did an instance of death occur in that house. Nevertheless, the builder, and I believe all that were brought up in that house, have gone the way of the earth. 98 MEMOIR OF THE hollow, cast of the old meeting house, (where by some con- vulsion of nature the rocks are thrown together in wild con- fusion,) a small cave, which those who have visited, have thought worthy of a visit. The streams of water are small, yet they afford some valuable mill sites, on which are now eight saw-mills in operation part of the year, and six run of stone for grinding grain. In this place, I will name another fact, which may be con- sidered belonging to the history of the town. The hills were favorite hunting grounds, and long before a grant of the town was obtained, and for years after it began to be settled, the hunters frequently kindled fires in the woods for the benefit of their hunting. And if the hunters did not fire the woods, some men from lower towns did, that young sprouts might come up for young cattle to feed upon. By these means, some parts of the town, especially Pole Hill, so called, rang- ing south from the stone school house, was greatly injured, while yielding grain to those who did not own the soil. And some families in Groton used to make hay in the meadow, near the centre, called Nose-meadow, where they had a camp, and in the latter part of winter send up young cattle, and a black man named Boad, to feed and tend them, until they could get their living in the woods.* Here Boad used to spend moutlis alone, year after year, like Robinson Crusoe, "sole monarch of all he sm-veyed." The period to which we have now arrived, was to this town like that of youth, just blooming into manhood. They began to think, and talk of being incorporated. They had a desire to be like other towns ; and yet had fears whether equal to take such a stand. This kind of trembling state of mind appears from their votes at meetings, where the subject was agitated. At a meeting called partly for this purpose, April, 1766, it was finally voted, not to be incorporated at present. Thus it rested until January, 1768, ^nd the meeting was * Bead's camp was but a few rods from the spot, on which Joel Ames' house now stands. — This Boad was a slave. EEV. EBENEZER HILL. 99 adjourned four weeks for cousideration. At the adjournment it was voted to be incorporated, " and that Lt. 0. Parker be appointed to attend to the business, and get it accomplished as soon as may be." The next point to be settled, was the name by which the town should be called. And at a meeting held June, 1768, it was voted that the town be called Sharon. It does not appear from any records I have seen, or from any tradition which has reached me, why the name of Sharon was dropped, and the name Mason adopted. There was, however, a report current among the old people, that "a bell was sent from England for this town, as a present from the heirs of Mr. Mason," which, if fact, will account for the name. It is also reported, that by the knavery of the agent of Mr. Mason in Boston, the bell was lost to the town — that he sold the bell, and absconded with this and other dishonest gains. And the bell on the Old South in Boston, is said to be that bell. The nest meet- ing was warned in the name of the inhabitants of Mason ; and the place was no longer known as Number 1. But although they had assumed a rank among the towns in the Province, they felt themselves, as a society, weak and feeble. When the first tax was assessed under the corporation, there were but seventy-six rateable polls, and probably not more than fifty-six voters ; for young men between eighteen and twenty-one years of age were rateable, and their rates charged to fathers or masters. And for a number of years, Brookline, then Raby, was classed with Mason to send a rep- resentative to the General Court; and the meetings for choice were held alternately at Brookline and Mason. It will be necessary now to take some notice of the church, in connection with the history of the town. At that time a town was an incorporate religiotis, as well as civil society. And all the inhabitants of a town belonged to that society, except they united with, or formed another religious society, according to law. The meeting house erected by the original proprietors, was by them given to the town, and remained 100 MEMOIR OP THE the only house for their religious assemblies, and other public meetings, until the year 1790. It was an uncomfortable place. In that house did your fathers worship ; and uncom- fortaljlc as it was, seldom did a Sabbath pass, even in the cold of winter, in which there was no meeting, after they had a stated ministry. A good number of the oarly settlers were members of the Congregational church, in the towns from which they removed, but no church was formed in Mason, until the year 1772, at which time Mr. Jonathan Searle was ordained their pastor. The church then consisted of twenty- one members, twelve brethren and nine sisters, all of whom are gone to their long home. When the church was gathered, it was stated to be a Calvinistic church, and that their articles of faith agree substantially with the principles of religion, contained in the Shorter Catechism of the Assembly of Divines. Shortly after the settlement of Mr. Searle, unhappy diffi- culties arose between the pastor and the flock, which eventu- ated in his dismission, in nine years and three months after his ordination. From that time Mr. Searle ceased to preach, but continued in the town, and olficiated as a civil magistrate, to an advanced age. During his ministry, only fourteen were admitted to the church by profession, and nine by letter, and eleven owned the covenant, as it was called, according to the practice of many churches in New England, in those days. The last admitted by profession in Mr. Searle's ministy, was in April, 1777, and but one more, and that by letter, until 1790. Here was a long death-like sleep! but one added to the church in thirteen years. The sleep seems to have been profound — death-like indeed, until the year 1785, when a great revival of religion, and of the work of God, com- menced in New Ipswich, under the ministry of the venerable Farrar — a name venerated indeed by all who knew him. The gracious work extended into other towns ; and this part of the vineyard was remembered in mercy. Some few chris- tians were awakened, and brought to apply themselves to REV. EBENEZER HILL. 101 neglected duties ; and the people in Mason, especially the young, flocked to the solemn meetings in New Ipswich, and soon some were reproved of sin, became anxious for their souls, and after a time, rejoiced in hope of pardoning mercy. Such, however, was the state of the church in Mason, broken, and dispirited, that the young candidates for the church were led to seek admission to the church in New Ipswich, to which they had become peculiarly attached by that acquaintance, which their situation and intercourse had brought about; and by that mutual love which new-born souls, who have mourned, and wept, and prayed and rejoiced together, must feel. Their request was granted, on condition that they remove their relation whenever the church in Mason should become in a settled state. In the year 1790, the resident members of other churches removed their relation, and the church was increased to thirty-six in number, and in the same year, Nov. 3d, was the present pastor ordained, and constitu- ted pastor of this church. In this long period of fifty-six years, there have been precious seasons of revival. I will mention some of those seasons. In 1802, the church was increased by the addition of forty-four members — in 1812, added twenty-five — in 1826 and 7, added eighty-six — in 1834 and '35, added thirty-eight; and in 1841, added eighty-three. The whole number of members, received by profession and letter, is rising four hundred and fifty. A Baptist church was embodied in this town, Oct. 28, 1786, then consisting of seven members, three males and four females. Additions were made by letter and profession to this church in this and neighboring towns. About this time, Mr. Wm. Elliot, an inhabitant of the town, commenced preaching the gospel, and labored much in this and other towns, as an evangelist, until in August, 1788, the church of which he was a member, gave him a call to become their pastor, which call he accepted, and was ordained by an eccle- siastical council, on the 3d Wednesday in November, 1788. For a time, the care of almost all the Baptist churches in the 14 102 MEMOIR OP THE vicinity, came upon liim. He raised up a numerous family, and had two sons settled in the ministry. He lived to a good old age, his last sickness was very distressing, which he endured with patience, and died in the triumphs of faith, June 14, 1830, aged 81 years. The church of which he was pastor, is now merged in the Baptist church in Mason village. In the month of May, in the year 1833, another church and society was gathered and embodied in this town, consist- ing at the time, of twenty-three members. This society assume only the name of Christian. Since the year 1790, there has been no inconsiderable increase of inhabitants, and no little improvement in build- ings, and other accommodations. The exact number of voters in 1790, is not ascertained; but in 1768, we may calculate about fifty-six, and in March, 1845, our check list told three hundred and six legal voters. In the year 1790, when almost the whole town undertook to build a meeting house, it was with many discouragements and fears. They felt poor and weak-handed for such an undertaking. The house was built and remains the meeting house of the town. And now, besides this, we have three meeting houses, and three religious socie- ties, and probably each society equally able to build their house, as was the first. I can reckon up but one hundred and ten dwelling houses, of every description, standing in the town in 1790. And at that time, on all the ground which contains this flourishing village, there were standing the first mill built here, one dwelling house, built at two times, for the accommodation of two families, and one barn.-' Now Ave can count fifty-two dwelling houses, three stores, one meeting house, three fac- tory buildings — one in full operation, carrying two thousand four hundred and sixty-four spindles, in this village. Compare the present state of the Columbian Factory, with the one first built here, and it will give a fair view of the advance of our country in manufactures, arts and commerce. " The widow Polly mil now occupies the remaining part of the house. REV. EBENEZER HILL. 103 The first Cotton Factory in Mason, commenced operation in the year 1813, with one hundred spindles, in four small frames, and was kept running night and day. At that time, the price of cotton was from twenty-five to thirty cents per pound, and the price of yarn. No. 16, was one dollar per pound. In 1814 cotton was forty cents, and yarn one dollar and sixteen cents per pound. At that time all the cotton was picked by hand, in private families, and the cloth was wove in house looms ; and the price of shirting, was from thirty to forty cents per yard. For constant market the cloth must be sent in wagons to Albany. And at that time there was no market here for farm produce. At the time referred to, 1790, there were but four, and those very poor, school houses in the town ; now there are ten; some of them may be called good. And not only is the number of dwelling houses increased, but there is an advance in elegance and convenience. At that time many of the dwellings were miserably poor; and but one in all the town, Mr. Parker's, had any paint on the outside, and that scarcely perceptible by reason of age. And I can think of only three rooms in all the town, then adorned with paper hangings. Since those ancient days there have been great changes in customs and fashions, and manner of living ; and many con- veniences have been introduced ; but whether on the whole for the better, remains to be proved. At that period there was not a chaise, or other wheel carriage for pleasure, in all the town, (a light one horse wagon, for pleasure or business is a modern invention,) neither was there one single sleigh. To ride on horseback was fashionable for men and women ; and could they have a single horse, this was traveling in style. It was not uncommon for a man and woman to ride on the same horse to meeting or a short journey, and carry one or two children. Probably if I should tell some of my young friends, that their mothers and grandmothers rode on ii inllion behind their husbands, they would have no idea of that easy and commodious seat, a pillion. But, I have frequently seen 104 MEMOIR OF THE a man and liis wife ride togetlier on a liorse to meeting, on the sabbath, after their united ages amounted to one hundred and sixty-nine years. It was also not uncommon for families to ride to meeting, or to make social visits, in the winter, on sleds drawn by oxen, and they would chat and smile as cheer- fully, as they now do in a stage and four or six. And will you, my young friends, believe that your mothers and grandmothers, and those who moved in the first grade of society, were not ashamed to be seen in the religious assem- bly, or in any company on other occasions, dressed in their plain, decent, warm, home-made clothing, or at the most, in the summer, in a chintz gown, and a white linen apron ? Such was indeed the fact. And you may judge, whether they were not more comfortable than they would have been in some mod- ern dresses — whether the change to costly elegance and finery has been a real advance in the enjoyment of life. In the early period of the settlement, it was often imprac' ticable to keep the roads open in the winter, so as to pass with a team or a horse from house to house, to meeting or to mill. The people were not however confined at home, through a long and dreary winter. Every family, and almost every man was provided with a pair of snow shoes, otherwise called raclcets. (It would doubtless be as difficult at this day to give our young men a correct idea of rackets, as to give our young ladies a correct idea of a j)iUion. ) With these snow shoes they were enabled to walk on the snow, and after passing a few times would have a good foot path from house to house. And not unfrequently were they necessitated to get up their wood, and carry their grain to mill, on hand sleds drawn on these racket paths. And although horses could not travel, you may not think the young ladies or their mothers were confined at home, and must lose all the pleasures of social visits, while the snow lay deep on the ground. They too would put on the snow shoes, and travel off; and although enduring a little more fatigue, they enjoyed their visits, it is REV. EBENEZER HILL. 105 presumed, as well as do ladies at the present day, when wafted over the snow with the music of bells. Our ancestors were a hardy race, but they were sometimes visited with sickness, and death entered their dwellings. For a long time they must have obtained all their medical aid from other towns ; for there never was a resident Physician in the town, until about 1790, when Dr. Joseph Gray and Dr. William Barber established themselves permanently here. Dr. Barber is yet living. Dr. Willis Johnson commenced medical practice here in the year 1814. The inhabitants were not so exactly on the peace establish- ment as to have no litigation ; but they were necessitated to seek legal advice and services from gentlemen of the bar in other towns. For there never was a lawyer became an inhab- itant of this town, until the late Samuel Whiting, Esq., opened an office, and commenced residence about the year 1825. At the time of my earliest acquaintance with the town, there were, and there had never been, but two justices of the peace in the place, Jonathan Searle and Benjamin Mann; they remained the only magistrates in the town several years after this. Esquire Mann held his office until he removed from the town, and Esquire Searle held his until his death. Who was the first Representative of the town in the General Court, as it was then called, is not easily ascertained. But it appears that as early as the year 1775, Amos Dakin was chosen by the joint ballot of Raby and Mason, to represent them in a Convention at Exeter in December; and likewise commis- sioned to act in the Assembly, if requisite. This must have been the time when Mr. Dakin traveled from Mason to Exe- ter on snow shoes, because not practicable in any other way. He may be considered the first Representative. The first Grand Juror chosen was Thomas Tarbell, the first petit Juror drawn was Zachariah Davis — the year 1771. The early inhabitants of the town of Mason were true sons of liberty. When the difficulties between the mother country and the Colonies, arose to such a pitch as to take away the 106 MEMOIR OP THE hope of accommo elation, they were ready to act with decision. I have never heard of but one inhabitant of Mason, at that time, wlio was unfriendly to the cause of the Colonies. Cap- tain Samuel Tarbell was then considered a tory, as those were called, who were disposed to espouse and maintain the cause of the King and Parliament in all their oppressive acts against the Colonics. He, after the war commenced, fled and took refuge within the British lines. When it was apparent that the Colonies must submit unconditionally, or, weak and feeble as they were, must defend themselves against the mighty power of Great Britain, these sons of the forest were by no means behind any of their brethren, in making preparation for defence, and in readiness to step forward and exert their strength, when called to action. In the year 1774, meetings of the town were frequent ; and it appears that there was great unanimity in their resolves, which were all of the defen- sive character. In this year they voted to purchase a town stock of ammunition, and a quantity of arms. At the same time, they entered into solemn covenant to suspend all com- mercial intercourse with Great Britain, until her acts of Par- liament leveled at the rights of the Colonies should be repeal- ed, and the Port of Boston, which was then shut, should be opened. This covenant was substantially the same, as was entered into in the Colonies generally ; but the spirit of these sons of liberty was seen in the closing up of the solemn cov- enant, the last clause of which was in substance, that " all who refused or neglected to come into this or a like agree- ment, ought to be, and should by them be considered and esteemed enemies to their country." Such a covenant was not only voted in town meeting to be accepted, but a com- mittee was appointed to see that the covenant be signed by the inhabitants, and to take and report the names of all who refused to sign. This committee consisted of the following persons : Amos Dakin, Samuel Brown, Joshua Davis, Nathan Hall and James Wethee. Also, in 1775, a committee of inspection was appointed, to see that the resolves of the Con* REV. EBENEZER HILL. 107 tinental Congress be duly observed. And to prepare for comfortable subsistence as well as for defence, in town meet- ing it was voted, in view of the increasing difficulty which might be expected, of procuring such a necessary article as salt, "that thirty hogsheads be purchased, while it could be had, for the use of the town." We have evidence also, that the fathers of the present gen- eration were not only brave and prudent in Resolves, but also in action. When tidings arrived in Mason, that the Regulars, i. e. the British troops, had gone out from Boston, and proceeded as far as Concord, and that blood was actually shed in Lexing- ton and Concord, the men dropped their tools, and with all possible speed, hastened to the spot, where blood had flowed. And I have been informed that the training soldiers, on this occasion, ready to avenge the blood of their slaughtered countrymen, marched under officers, who held their commis- sion from the King, whose troops they were willing to engage, without thinking of any impropriety. New Hamp- shire troops were distinguished in the war. And as far as can be judged at this time from town records and tradition, Mason bore its full proportion, with other towns, in sufferings and effective labor. I wish I could give you the names of all the Mason men, who were with the gallant Stark in the battle of Bennington. Many of the young men of the town spent their best days in the army. Some of the elderly men were found in the tented field ; but many of the soldiers entered the service of their country in their very boyhood, not by compulsion, but by voluntary enlistment, and continued in the service, until the independence of the country was acknowledged, and peace spread her blessings over the land. A few, and but a few of them all, survive to the present day. The names of most of the early settlers in the town, are handed down in their posterity. A few families have lost their name, yet the greater part of the present inhabitants, 108 MEMOIR OF THE are descendants of those who cleared the forests for them. Who will be ashamed of such ancestors ? We pretend not that they were faultless ; but let their descendants emulate their virtues, and avoid their errors and faults, as far as they are known, and Mason will be a happy spot in our favored land. Your attention is now called to another subject, which makes a part of the history of the town, yet of a different character from that which we have been contemplating. Health is said to be the greatest of temporal blessings. Of this we have been favored with, at least, a common share with other towns around ; and we can tell of many instances of longevity. In the course of the forty last years, there have died in this town fifty-seven between eighty and ninety years old, fourteen between ninety and one hundred. One man, Jonathan Foster, exceeded one hundred years, and another, Oliver Eliott, one hundred and two and one-half. It may be well to note in a passing remark, that these two old men were very temperate in the use of intoxicating drinks, for the age in which they lived, and their common food was of the plainest kinds. But notwithstanding the acknowledged healthiness of the place, and many instances of longevity, we have had seasons of calamity, in which mortal sickness has prevailed. We have had two seasons in which angina maliorna, or throat distemper, or canker rash, so called, has spread terror and dismay over the place, and carried many of the young children and blooming youth, to an early grave. In the year 1810, this dreadful distemper made its appearance, in the last of March, or beginning of April, and continued to spread dismay, until the month of August. In this short period many fami- lies felt the scourge, and death cut off twelve children, all but two, under the age of five years. Again, in the years 1818 and 1819, the same dreadful disease was epidemic in the town, and many of the children and youth fell before this destroyer. These years were the years of the greatest mor- REV. EBENEZER HILL. 109 tality ever known in the town ; in one 34, in the other 31 deaths, 65 in two years. In the reign of this malignant disease, but one aged person fell before the shaft of death, while 40 were cut down under the age of eighteen. With respect to the visitation of this malignant distemper at this time, it is to be remarked, it began in the South East part of the town, in the family of Darius Hudson, in a small house stand- ing on an highly elevated spot, not near any other building; this was about the middle of September, 1818 ; and it continued ty rage until tlie beginning of August, 1819. It is noted, it began in the South East part of the town. By this, you will understand, that we have no knowledge that the sickness existed at that time, in any neighboring town, and certainly it was not in any other house at this time. Its first appear- ance was in its most malignant form. In the short space of eight days, three out of seven children died in the first visited family. The disease did not spread in the nearest families. This did not appear to be a radiating point, from which contagion should issue forth in all directions. Instead of that, its next appearance was at a good distance, at least a mile to the North East, where there had been no communica- tion between the families. And the third case was in the extreme South part of the town. And thus it extended from East to West, from North to South, to every part of the town. Neither was it always the case, that all the children of the same fam.ily, or who lived in the same house, where the sickness was, had it. And not only, as in the first instance, but in other instances, those had the disease, who had not been exposed to catch it, as they say, by coming in contact with the diseased, or entering infected places. Here I will name one extraordinary case, and leave it without comment. There was a little girl in a family in the South side of the town, somewhat remote from neighbors, who was the only child in the house. She was an adopted daughter ; and the foster mother had such forebodings of death, should the 15 110 MEMOIR OP THE disease attack her child, and such apprehensions of danger from exposure, that from the first knowledge she had of the existence of the disease in the town, she restricted her child to the house, and suflcrcd no child from abroad to enter her doors. This secluded child fell sick of this frightful disease, and died. In conclusion of this point of interesting history, I state that in the space of the last forty-six years," there have been removed from this town — from their houses, and fields, and possessions, to the narrow home appointed for all the livin|^ a number, little, if any short of eight hundred and thirty. What a congregation this would make ! more than half the number of the present inhabitants. Looking at the past, what changes may be expected in the future ? It is believed that there are but two living, on earth, who were members of the Congregational chm-ch, in this town, in the year 1790, (LydiaWilson and PollyDunster,)and but two who were at that time at the head of a family, (widow Withington and James Wethcc.) how often have we all been admonished to prepare for death, and for that judgment which is after death. Death doth not select his victims among the aged, but often levels his arrow at the fairest blooming youth. Let such another period, as we are contemplating, pass away, and few, if any, of the present active inhabitants of this town, will bo on earth. Be not ofi'ended, then, with one who has passed the greater part of his short life with you, and whose glass of life is just run out, who would aifectionately entreat you to consider your latter end — would direct your attention to the end of time, and to your present preparation to die. remember, Christ in you is the hope of glory, and the only hope that will not fail. Look away to the Lamb of God, as the only savior of sinners — go to him as sinners — go without delay. Or if you have already made Christ all your salvation, let him have your heart — let him have your life, and then when you shall have done with all things here below, you will not ^ REV. EBENEZER HILL. Ill only rest from all your labors in the peaceful grave, but you will live in the full enjoyment of the love and favor of Christ, forever and ever. Your friend prays that your future history, may be pleasantly instructive to all who come after you ; and may your last end be peace. 112 MEMOIR OP THE LIST OF PUBLISHED DISCOUESES. The following list includes, it is believed, all the published discourses of Mr. Hill. 1. A sermon delivered at Mason, April 11, 1803, at the funeral of Miss Persis Lawrence, daughter of Mr. Stephen Lawrence, aged 23 years. Text Eccl. 8 : 8. Printed at Amherst, by Joseph Gushing. 2. A sermon delivered at Mason, March 22, 1805, at the funeral of Miss Hannah Lawrence, daughter of Stephen Law- rence, Esq. Aged 26 years. Text, Psalm 90 : 12. Printed at Amherst, by Joseph Gushing. 3. A sermon delivered at Mason, July 18, 1805, at tlie funeral of Mr. Luther Lawrence, son of Stephen Lawrence, Esq., aged twenty years. Text 1 Gor. 15 : 21. Printed at Amlierst, by Joseph Gushing. 4. A sermon delivered at New Ipswich, June 3d, 1811, at the funeral of Miss Ruthy Bachelder. Text, Psalm 88 : 7, 8, 18. 5. A sermon delivered at New Ipswich, August 6th, 1811, at the funeral of William Kimball Bachelder. Text, Eccl. 9:12; with an appendix, containing a sketch of the life of Miss Bachelder, and extracts from her letters and papers. Printed at Boston, by Munroe and Francis. Sermons and appendix, pp. 48. 6. A sermon delivered at New Ipswich, September 22, 1815, at the funeral of Miss Glarissa Davis. Text, Eccl. 9 : 4; with an appendix, containing extracts from her diary and letters, by the Rev. Richard Hall. Prhited at Boston, by Samuel T. Armstronu-. REV. EBENEZER HILL. 113 7. A sermon delivered at Mason, May 16th, 1817, at the funeral of Mrs. Mary Blodgett, wife of John Blodgett, Esq. who was instantly killed by being thrown from a wagon. Text, Ezekiel 24 : 18. Printed at Amherst, by Richard Boylston. 8. A sermon delivered at Brookline, November 27th^ 1817, at the interment of the remains of the Rev. Lemuel Wadsworth, pastor of the Congregational church in that place. Text, 2 Cor. 5 : 1. Printed at Amherst, by Richard Boylston. 9. A sermon delivered at Mason, August 28th, 1826, at the funeral of Joseph Addison Bobbins, son of Joseph B. Bobbins and Hannah his wife. Text, Jer. 9 : 21. Printed at New Ipswich, by Salmon Wilder. 10. A funeral sermon delivered at Mason, on Lord's Day, December 10th, 1826, occasioned by the death of Capt. Hiram Smith, who deceased December 6th, 1826, aged twenty- five years. Text, Job 21 : 23 — 26. Printed at Amherst, at the Cabinet press. 11. A sermon delivered at Mason, at the house of James Wood, Esq., November 4th, 1835, being on the completing of his eightieth year. Text, Psalm 90 : 9 — 12. New Ipswich, printed at the News Gatherers's office. 12. A sermon preached at Ashby, at the house of Mr. Jacob Cowdry, on the birth day of Mrs. Tabitha Pearson, who then completed the one hundredth year of her age. Text, 2 Sam. 19 : 34, 35, 37. Amherst, printed by Richard Boylston. 13. The substance of two lectures on the History of Mason, delivered before the Lyceum in Mason village, Febru- ary, 1846. Printed at Fitchburg, by W. J. Merriam. These, with some contributions to the Medical and Agri- cultural Register, a periodical conducted by Dr. Daniel Adams, and some occasional communications to the Farmer's Cabinet, a newspaper published at Amherst, N. H., comprise all his printed works, so far as is known at this time. lu a family monument of native granite, erected in the old grave yard, is inserted a marble tablet, with an inscription, of whicli the following i^ a copy: HIS CHURCH AND PEOPLE DEVOTE THIS TABLET TO THE MEMORY OF THE KEY. EBENEZER HILL. BORN IN CAMBRIDGE, JAN. 31, 1766. GRADUATED AT HARVARD COLLEGE, 1786. ORDAINED PASTOR OF THE CHURCH, AND MINISTER OF THE TOWN OF MASON, NOVEMBER 3, 1790. DIED MAY 20, 1854, IN THE 89th YEAR OF HIS AGE, AND THE 64th OF HIS MINISTRY. A FAITHFUL SERVANT, HE DEVOTED HIS TIME AND STRENGTH TO THE WORK OF HIS LORD AND MASTER; READY AT ALL TIMES TO DIRECT THE ENaUIRING, TO CHEER THE DOUBTING, TO WARN THE SINFUL, TO VISIT THE SICK AND AFFLICTED, AND OFFER TO THEM THE COMFORT AND SUPPORT OF RELIGION; AFTER A LONG LIFE OF USEFULNESS, HE DEPARTED IN PEACE, HUMBLY TRUSTING TO RECEIVE THE WELCOME MESSAGE, WELL DONE GOOD AND FAITHFUL SERVANT; ENTER THOU INTO THE JOY OF THY LORD. * Z ^KX^i^^^-^^ ^O £ ^^ X^>^'^^ jC (yLjL^!^ J /-t.,0. (p^2.^T^<^ ^t^^^'-l^-^jl^-^J l^<^-rl.c^2J T^Zfc^ For the Congregational Journal. _^ 7^ REV. EBENEZER HILL. The death of this aged minister of Christ occurred on the 20th of May, at his residence in Mason, N. H. It is fitting that some notice should be ta- ken of the departure of one who faithfully served God in liis generation, and has been "gathered to his people" in a ripe old age. — He was born in Cambridge, Mass., Jan. 31, age. Little is known respecting his early life. His love of knowledge seems to have been early developed. He was greatly debted to his mother for his education. He pastor from 1790 to 1836 — a period of 46 years. He was not then dismissed, but re- ceived a colleague, and continued to be senior pastor mitil his death — a term of 63 years and six months from his ordination. His first associate in the pastoral office was Rev. A. H. Reed, who commenced his labors in 1836, and was dismissed Dec. 11, 1839.— The next was his own son, Rev. Jos. B. Hill, installed in Oct., 1841, and dismissed in April, 1847. The third colleague (and the present pastor) Rev. J. L. Ames was install- 1766, and was therefore eighty-eight years of ed Oct. 30, 1850 — sixty years after "father Hill's" ordination. Thus it will be seen that he lived 17 years after he ceased to bear the entire responsibilities of the ministry, and during this time he had three colleagues, the graduated from Harvard University in 1786, aggregate of whose terms of service amounts at the age of 20 — being one year in advance of John Quincy Adams. After leaving col- lege, he taught school for a time in Westford, Mass. His theological studies were pursued in Rindge, N. H., under the direction of Rev. Seth Payson, D. D. He was received into the church under Dr. Payson's care, on pro- fession of his faith, Sept., 1788. According to the testimony of an aged original member of the 1st Congregational church in Mason, his conversion took place while he was at Westford ; but m what circumstances or by what external means the writer is not inform- ed. He was ordained at !Mason Nov. 3, 1790. to only about 12 years, the remainder of the time being occupied by "supplies." He did not cease to preach jvhen he ceased to be the responsible pastor. He was always ready to go at the call of destitute churches, and cheer- fully took his place in the pulpit in the inter- im between the dismission of one colleague and the settlement of another. Many of the churches in this vicinity will remember very gratefully his sympathy and labors for them, when they were feeble and struggling A\-ith difficulties. The people of Sharon, N. H., often enjoyed his labors, and he felt a pecu- liar interest, at one time, in their welfare. When the present pastor was installed, Dr. Payson preached the sermon on that oc- three years ago last Oct., he was able to be casion, taking for his text, 2d Cor. 5 : 20. — present at the services. In Sept., 1851, his "Now then we are ambassadors for Clirist,'' mental faculties began to fail, and in a short &c. The sermon Avas pubHshed, and also the time he became unable to converse intelligi- charge to the pastor and right hand of fel- lowship. At the time he decided to settle in Mason, he also had a call from the church in Marl- boro' N. H. What his own views and feel- bly, or even to recognize his own family. — This decay of intellectual vigor was exceed- ingly painful to his friends, but it was no doubt wisely ordered. . He had very few lu- cid intervals after that time ; but when his ings were on entering the sacred office, Me mind seemed brightest his thoughts were cannot now ascertain, probably ; but we doubt dweUing upon the spiritual themes which not they were consistent and solemn. His had so long occupied them, or upon scenes subsequent career was alike honorable to 1 long past, and had httle or no connection Christ and significant of his OAvn hearty de- I mth the present. After a gradual wasting votion to his work. He was the second pas- away of the body, and without any irapor- tor of the old church m M. Rev. Joseph | tant change, he gently ceased to breathe at Searles being the first. He remained sole about daybreak, on the morning of the 20th ult. His funeral was attended three days af- ter, and his mortal remains now sleep in the burj'ing-ground only a short distance from his OAvn dwelling. ESTIMATION OF HIS CHARACTER. His Intellect. — His mental powers were remarkably well balanced, and so indeed was^ his whole character. It would be difficult toj point out any one faculty that projected very J far beyond the circumference of the others. His mind was strong and steady and clear. — It was liberally endowed with all those qual- ities Avhich men consider essential to a good intellect, capable of developing itself harmo- niously and usefully. He could not be call- ed a man oi great genius, if by that term we understand a powerful imagination and ex- traordinary capacity for all kinds of mental effort. |( Sterling good sense was perhaps the larg- est element in his intellectual character. His judgment Avas sound and unusually free from I hurtful prejudices. He was strongly inclined to the practical, though never discarding the- ory where it seemed necessary. He was ac- customed to hold his ojjinions with much re- ij serve, but his thoughts were expressed in a very clear and perspicuous manner. His mind i was aolid, rather than brilliant ; deliberate, j rather than quick ; comprehensive rather than , diffuse, yet always energetic and true to its own convictions. His theological views were strictly Calvin- istic. He never verged to either extreme in theology. He aimed to develope the doc- trines of the Bible, and always made that the i standard of aj)peal. Eschewing all wild aid unprofitable speculations, he sought to know the truth as it is in Jesus. He regarded the AVestminster Assembly's Shorter Catechism as a valuable compendium of truth, and used it as a manual in his family, more or less, for many years. He loved the fundamental doc- trines of the orthodox system, so called, and preached them distinctly and faitlifully. »'?s a preacher he had many excellencies. His style of writing was uncommonly ^/ain, but always suggestive and instructive. Its very simplicity was attractive. He never in- dulged in the flights of fancy, but drew large- ly upon that fund of excellent practical sense with which his Maker had endowed him. His personal ajjpeartjnce in the pulpit was | always deeply serious. He seemed to feel ; that he was an ambassador for Christ. The i pulpit was not a platform to him, where men may display the gi-aces of elocution, the bril- i hancy of their M'it, and the keenness of their ' satire, but the place where divine truth is to i be set forth with a view to save men from , impending wo. Hence his mode of address was far, very far removed from the flashy, superficial, taking style of some modem preachers. It was earnest, affectionate and times of affliction was very strong and tender. ! He was especially welcome at the bedside of | the sick and the dying. His presence at fu- i nerals was deemed very desirable ; so sooth- ing were his expressions of condolence and so appropriate were his exhortations and prayers. It may be truly said that no minis- ter in all this region excelled him in this re- spect. Unquestionably his own afflictions, which were not few nor shght, helped to qualify him for this service. He was a man of great sensibility, but he always kept his feehngs under control. He had what may be termed the grace of si- lence. His tongue was in complete subjec- tion ; he was a very judicious pastor. His advice was often sought by the neighboring churches. The number of councils which he attended was very large. < At the time of his death there was but one Congregational minister in New Hamp- shire older than he— Rev. Laban Ainsworth of Jafti-ey. Passing by many items, let us contem- plate his social and domestic qualities. Though habitually grave, he was not austere, but could ajjjjreciate wit, and on proper oc- casions indulged hi it himself. He was fond of conversation, and contributed not a little to make it entertaining. He was an excellent father — greatly re- vered and loved by his children, of whom there were fourteen, six sons and eight daughters. Aine of these are now living, viz. five sons and four daughters. Three of the sons received a liberal education ; two being ministers and one a lawyer. His chil- dren were trained in the nurture and admo- nition of the Lord. He dedicated them to God in baptism ; and at a family gathering, almost ten years ago, it was found that of the ten children then living all but two were professors of rehgion, while of those Avho have departed all sleej) in Jesus. His off- spring were truly a^odly seed. As the head of th* family, he was very punctual in the habit of family prayer. And his manner of conducting it Avas often very touching and solemn. He was called during his early manhood to drinlc the bitter cup of sorrow. Yet amid all his afRictions, he was calm and self- possessed, being upheld and comforted by the grace of God. The piety of father Hill was truly scrip- tural. It shone in all places and in all rela- tions, with a luster at once dehghtful and captivating. It produced in him very great reverence for God. This trait in his relig- ious character was quite prominent. His whole demeanor was reverential — his words, looks, and tones of voice. He ever treated the name and attributes of God with .sacred awe. He was a man of prayer ; he spent much time in secret communion with his Savior. And he was, as men say, truly "gifted in prayer." His humility was con- spicuous as well as his love of the Bible and the sanctuary. To him " Christ was all and in all," and self was mortified and forgotten. His attachment to the church of God Avas neculiarly strong. He could adopt the lan- guage of Dr. Dwight's hymn beginning — " I love thy kingdom, Lord." He insisted on going to the sanctuary as long as he was able to get there, and he instructed a class in the Sabbath School, until his failing strength compelled him to cease. Often after he was unable to preserve the sequence of his thoughts on ordinary subjects, and Avhen he scarcely knew whether it was morn- ing or evening, he would offer prayer in a | perfectly consecutive manner, — the language | being appropriate and his manner the same as if his family were gathered around him. The Christian graces seemed to be all ripe in him, years before his exit ; and he has " come to his grave in a full age, like as a shock of com cometh in his season." " Soldier of Christ, well done '. Praise be thy new employ, And while eternal ages run, Rest in thy Savior's joy." E. R. H. 7^ LIBRARY OF CONGRESS I III III 008 964 750 2 f