"f^ ■S' ^ 't. .#^ .^ v^"" *-^ ^ ""^ ^..^ ,S> ^^^. '^^ V* iff:. x>n >0 O .^■^ •^^^>,^: o^^<^. ,■0' s'" ' *^ "ers. Its first meeting-house was erected in 1824, and is now the Catholic Church on Main Street, having been occupied by its builders until sold to the Methodist Society in 1838. Its second place of worship was erected on its present lot, on Park Street, in 1836, and dedicated Feb. 8, 1837. This house was struck by lightning in 1850, and came near being destroyed. In ]\Iarch, 1871, it caught fire from an over-heated furnace, and was en- tirely consumed. The society had, previously to the fire, arranged to build its present splendid brick church during the then coming season, which was completed so as to be dedicated in Aug. 19, 1873, costing about $03,000 besides the lot. It scats about eight hundred and fift}' persons, and is one of the finest country churches in the State. Soon after the new church was built a portion of the members formed a new society at the North Village, under the name of the Congregational Society of Christ, which division, with the large debt incurred in the new chtn-ch building, drew pretty haril and almost discouraged some; but, by great effcu't, the debt has been largely i)rovided for, and the prospects of the society made promising. This society is now without a minister. The Methodist Episcopal Society was formed March 27, 1823, and the church legally organized March 10, 1828. Its first meeting-bouse, standing at what is now the corner of Prospect and Harvard streets, and at present used for a dwelling-house, was dedicated in December, 182!), and was used till January, 1839, when the society i-emoved to the house pinvhascd by it of the Evangelical Society, on Main Street. The society enlarged the last-named house in 1839, erected a steeple on it, and afterwards occupied the house till it was sold to the Catholic bishop in 1871 ; the society then removed to its present beautiful brick church, on ^Liiii Street, in 1872, which it had previously 14 TOWX OF LEOMINSTER. erected at a cost of some $G5,000, and which has a seating capacity of eight hun- dred and fifty. The ministers of this society being of the itinerant order, and remaining but short periods, have consequently been numerous. The debt of the society at the beginning of the recent hard times was quite large, and some of its iiest supporters suffered severely from the pressure, so that, for a time, its prospects seemed somewhat dark ; but by courage, devotion and good man- agement, it seems in a fair way to overcome its difficulties, and be a power for good in Ihc future as in flic past. Its present minister is Rev. E. A. Smith. The Central Baptist Church of Leominster was duly organized March 10, 1850. by the former members, principally, of the Baptist Church establi.-hcd April 30, 1821, and dissolved Oct 27, 1840. It was really but a re-organization of the Baptist sentiment in town, which began with the conversion of Capt. David Allen and his wife in 1818, and which, for a time, was connected with the Baptist Church in Holden, and afterwards helped to form a Baptist church in Princeton, with which it remained, cither as a branch or otherwise, for many years. The first place of worshii) of this society was the old John Richardson tailor-shop, on Main Street. Its first meeting-house, built by Capt. David Allen, between Oct. 23, 1830, and July 2, 1832, — the building contract bear- ing the former and the receipt the latter date, — for $834.3.5, on land now occupied for a residence by S. A. Meads, which was a gift to the society by Calvin Joslin, was occupied by it until its dissolution in 1849, and was after- wards owned and used by the Catholics until they purchased their present house of worship on JIain Street. At present it is occupied b}' said INIeads as a barn and carpenter's shop. In 1849 ihe new society purchased its church-site, on West Street, of the First Congregational Society, and erected its present symmetrical and tasty church-edifice, with a seating capacity of four hundred persons. This society, although it has had many discouragements and made frequent changes of pastors, is now in a flourishing condition under their pres- ent popular minister, the Rev. O. D. Kimball, settled Sept. 1, 187G. The first movement for the formation of a Catholic congregation in Lconiin- ster was made in 1849, when Rev. M. W. Gibson, pastor at Worcester, camo here and said mass in one of the Catholic families. He subsequently continued bis visits monthly; and, as the numbers increased, applied to the selectmen for the use of the town hall, which was generously granted, and services were held there twice a month. In 1851 the small meeting-house owned by the Baptist Society, on Main Street, near the Xorth Village, was purchased and fitted up, and when Fitchburg was assigned a resident pastor, Leominster formed part of that parish, and was attended by the priests thereof; viz., Fathers Turpiu and Foley. In 1871 their present church and parsonage were iiought of the Methodist Society, and refitted to suit their purposes; and, to accommodate their increasing numbers, remodeled and very much enlarged in 187G, so as to give a seating capacity of eight hundred, m:iking a fine church. Leominster was made an independent parish in 1872, and the present EDUCATIONAL POLICY. 15 cfBcicnt pastor, Rev. Daniel Sheil, appointed ; the chiu-ch was dcdieatcd to Almighty God, under the patronage of St. Leo, and is now a large and flour- ishing parish. The Congregational Society of Christ, at the North Village, was organized in 1872, and has worshipped in Kendall Hall so far, but has a very tasty new meeting-house nearly completed, on an eligible site on Main Street, in the village. The society takes in a large share of all the church-goers in the northerly part of the town, and under its present minister. Rev. E. G. Smith, appears to be flourishing, and promises to be a strong society. From the incorporation of the town in 1740 to the pr<^sent time the inhal)- itauts of Leominster have ever taken a deep and active interest in the welfare of their public schools. The schools have always been sustained by generous appropriations of money ; and (he adoption of a wise and cflicicut management by the early settlers has contributed largely to the acknowledged success of the schools. Leominster is one of the few towns of the Cominonwcallh Ihat was never divided into legal "school districts." The laws authorizing towns to divide their respective territories into school districts were never adoi)ted by the inhabitants of Leominster. Not only did the town repeatedly refuse to divide its territory into school districts, thus avoiding the evils of district corporations, but also, in several instances, anticipated the action of the General Court in requiring and making provision for a more s^'stematic supervision of the public schools. For more than half a century — from 1747 to 1S03 — the schools were examined once a year, at the close of the winter term, by the clergyman and (ho selectmen. During that period the school-books were few — the Bible, Psalter and Dihvorlh's spelling-book being the principal ones; but soon afterwards the books used in the schools became too numerous, since almost every teacher would introduce new ones. The result was, that scarcely any two schools in town had (he same books. To remedy this evil, and to provide for a better inspecdon of (he schools, the town early in 1808 chose a school-committee, whose duty it should l)e to visit the wiutcr schools at the beginning as well as the close of the term, to take the books into their own hands, to select the lessons, and make a thorough examination of the several classes. The school- committee were also authorized to prescribe what books should be used in the several schools; hence the}' became uniform tliroughout the town. About the same time registers, somewhat similar to those now required by law, were introduced. Thus the town andcipated, by nearly a quarter of a century, the action of the State, in making provision for a better supervision of the public schools; for it was not (ill 1820 that the law was enacted, making it obligatory on towns to choose a committee to superintend the schools. Such was tho system established by (he fathers for (he management of their schools; and in the same just, equal, and republican spirit, have the schoul affairs of the town been administered to the present time, with such raoditications as have been IG TOWN OF LEO^nXSTER. made ncccssar}' by tlic increasing population in the Centre and at the North Vilhige dining tlie hist quarter of a centiny. For a i)eriod of fil'tv-sovcn years, from 1791 to 1848, the money raised for the support of schools was divided equally, or nearl}' so, among the schools in dilferont jiarts of the town. Sometimes this equal division was made of all but $7") or $100, and the balance was distributed at the discretion of the select- men, or of a conmiittec chosen for that purpose, or of the school-committee; and this equal division was just and equitable, for all the schools were what arc now called "mixed schools," and the circumstances of all were vc r^^ similar. But in 1850 the number of families in town had increased to five hundred or more, and in order to meet the requisitions of the law it became necessary to establish a High School. Since that time the number of scholars in the Centre and North Village has increased so rapidly that at the present time, besides the High School with its two departments, three teachers and more than a hundred pupils, it requires the maintenance of three grammar and eight intermediate or primary schools to accommodate them all, where fcn-merly there were but two mixed schools. Tiiis concentration of the population and school-children in the Centre Village made it practicable to make a proper and desirable classification of the scholars. This grading of the schools constituted the fiist important iiniovation upon the old-time custom of supporting separate mixed schools in different parts of the town. In all schools where it is practicable, a proper classification of the scholars has now, for such a length of time, been proved to be so manifestly beneficial in its results, that it requires no argument to be offered in its favor. Of course, the establishment of the high and graded schools, in the Centre and North Village, rendered imperative some m:)dification of the former method of distributing the school money. Slill the same principle is acted upon in giving, so far as practicable, an equal amount of money to all the common schools, with the intent that all shall enjoy equal school privileges. The most important departure from the ancient method of managing sc'.iool affairs lies in this, that since 1809 the town has entrusted the care of the school- houses and the selection of the teachers entirely to the school committee, instead of another committee chosen for that purpose. Another innovation of recent origin consists in designating the several schools by means of numbers, which is equally as definite as the fcjriner method, and avoids the use of the word "districts" as inapplicable to towns not legally so divided, and also the word "wards "as not legitimate in the meaning for which it was used. But this change is not material. The spirit and animus of the ancient system remains; for the town, in its corporate capacity, still builds all the school-houses, takes care of and keeps them in repair, divides the school money as equally as circumstances allow among tlic several schools, and hires and contracts with all the teachers b}- a committee chosen for that purpose. And though that committee be the school committee, THi; SAI.ISIII UV TI.ACi;, T.KOMIXSTKK, M.^ SCHOOL APPROPRIATIONS. 17 they are none the less chosen officers of the town, and their continuance in office depends upon the will of its citizens. The wisdom and excellence of the school system is abundantly manifested by the prosperity of the schools, and is further illustrated by its capability of expansion to any extent to meet the wants of an increasing population. And the reverent gratitude of the present generation is due the fathers for the inheritance of a school system so nearly perfect in itself, and so eminently adapted to its wants. In December, 1747, the first nione^' was raised "for schooling," and it was voted " that it should be schooled out, one half on the north side of the river and the other half on the south side of the river." Of course, the schools must have been kept in private houses. The sum raised was about £10, or $40. In those days, and until the Revolution, £1 sterling was about the same value as $4 in silver. In 1748, the town, at the March meeting, also voted "to build a school-house and set it at ye meeting-house in said town," but it was not built till the next year, 1749. So here, as elsewhere, the descendants of the Pilgrims planted the school-house hard by the meeting-house. First the church was organized, and then schools were established for the formation of a religious and educated community. The amount of money raised for schools diu'ing the first ten years, 1747—1757, varied from £10 to £13 Gs. 8d., or from about |40 to $5fi. During the second decade, 1757-17^7, the sum raised f.ir schools gradually increased from £15 to £40, or from $00 to SI GO. Some years this amount was all expended at the school-house ; in other years at three places, as the selectmen should think proper. Thus for the first twenty years after the first money was rai-;ed for the sup- port of schools in 1747, there was but one school-house in town, and that was in the Centre near the meeting-house. For some years there was but one school kept, either winter or summer, and this was at the school-house ; at other times, particularly in the latter half of the period, there were three schools during the summer taught by women, one iu the school-house at the Centre, one in the northern, the third in the southern part of the town in pri- vate houses. In 17G7 it was "voted to divide the town into three parts for schooling." It was also "voted that the town should pay the charge of building three new school-houses, one in each part of the town"; and these school-houses afforded all the accommodations for attending school that the children enjoyed for the next twentj'-four years, or till 1792, thougli the population of the town in 1790 had reached the number of 1,197, consisting of about two hundred families. From 17G7 to 1774, the sum raised for schools was about £40, or $1()0. During the Revolutionar}' war the sum raised for the suppport of schools was small, and one year, 1777, no appropriation was made. From 1780 to 1790, $333.33 was the amount appropriated for schools. In 1791, it was voted to VOL. II 3 18 TOWN OF LEOMINSTER. divide the town into seven difTerent parts, to be called "wards," and to bnild seven school-houses to be finished during the next year. From 171)1 to 1805, inclusive, the sum raised for schools was gradually increased from $550 to $700. In 1806, a new ward was established and a new school-house built, called No. 8. From 180!) to 1836, a period of tliirty years, a sum varying from $800 to $900 was appropriated for schools, $800 being equally divided among the eight wards, and the amount exceeding $800 being allotted to the different schools at the discretion of the selectmen. From 1837 to 1848, inclusive, $1,200 were annufdly raised for schools. During this period the population in the Centre had increased so mucli th.it two or three schools were required to accommodate the children, and another ward. No. 10, was established, comprising a part of wards three and four; and in 1845, a new school-house was creeled for the convenience of the increasing numl)er of scholars at the North Village. The money raised during this time was divided as equally as practicable, generally at the recommendation of a committee, consisting of the school committee or some member thereof, and one citizen from each school ward, who was nominated by the inhabitants of the same and approved by the town. And this method of dividing the school money was continued till 1853, since which time it has been distributed accord- ing to the recommendation of the school committee in their annual report, or expended, as of late years, at their sole discretion. In 1849, $1,500 were raised for schools; in 1850, $1,900; in 1851 and 1852, $2,150. On account of the estal)lishment of the High School in 1859, and of the rapid increase of the town in population and wealth during the last twenty- five years, the sum of money for schools has greatl}' increased. In 1855 the amount was $2,976.36; in 1860, $3,323.67; in 1865, $3,979.96; in 1870, $6.600 ; and in 1875, $8,750. Of this last sum, $350 were expended for teaching vocal music. This year, 1879, the town raised for the support of schools the sum of $9,900, with which a High School is maintained for the benefit of all the inhabitants (having two departments, three teachers and more than one hundred pupils), three grammar, eight intermediate and primary schools in the Central and North Village, classified according to the scholars' attainments, and six mixed schools in the outskirts of the town. None of these, except No. 7, is more than two miles from the Centre, all have comfortable and commodious school-rooms, furnished with blackboards, maps, globes and necessary appara- tus, and in all arc employed well educated, faithfid and experienced teach- ers : if the children of the present generation fail to acquire a good education, the fault must be theirs and their parents, and not because the town fails in any degree to supply all necessary means and facilities. * * No historic sketch of the school system aud school affairs of the town can bo complete that iloos not rccoi'il the name of Jonas Henry Kendall umon^ the generous benefactors of the town. Ho died iu la&i, a dcsceuduat of an auuieut aud honorable family. By his will, besides PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS. 10 CHAPTER III. PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS niGnWAVS AND BRIDGES — PUBLIC PARK CF.ME- TERIES — TRAINING FIELD WATER-WORKS TURNPIKE CORPORATIONS RAILROADS AGRICULTURE MANUFACTURES MILITARY SPIRIT — THE REVOLUTION AND LATER WARS POLITICAL QUIET NOTABLE MEN IN PfB- LIC LIFE LOCAL PRESS BANKS AND ORGANIZATIONS PUBLIC LIBRAUV. The first two votes passed by the town after its incorporiitiou as a town, were those heretofore referred to in connection with the second meeting of the town, held Sept. 1, 1740, providing for building a bridge across the Naslitia River, in the Jsorlh ViHage, which made all the business done at that meeting, were the commencement of a system of public improvements, in the town, hardly second to that of any town in the Commonwealth. Tliis bridge was built immediately after the vote was passed, in a very thorough and substantial manner; the abutments being made of pine logs, many of them from two to three feet in diameter, and tirmU' locked together. This bridge was located where the present stone bridge on Main Street — one of the fincbt structures in the countj% and costing the town nearly $2.5,000 — was built in 1872. In clearing away for the foundation of this new stone bridge, these logs were found after having remained in the earth, under the road-bed, traveled over for more than a hundred and thirty years, as sound, except from one-half to one inch in thickness of sap on the outside, as they were in their native home in the jirimeval forests of the town. Many superstructures had been worn out by the action of the elements and the large amount of travel on this principal thoroughfare between the two most important sections of the town, and been replaced by others, all resting more or less entirely on the southeily side of the stream, on this simple wooden foundation ; and this, too, when to all appearance and as everybody supposed, the southerly al)utinent was made entirely of stone, the stone having been laid outside of the wood and largely held up thereby. Indeed, so solid was this foundation of wood, and so haul to get out, that when the bridge was built in 1872, it was decided to cut away sufficiently to bed the new stone work on solid earth and leave this old struc- ture in, as a foundation for the road-bed, where for aught we know it may remain for a thousand years or more, before it is all changed to anything but simple wood, so durable was the pine timl)er of the original forests of the countiy, when kept moist. The road referred to in this vote was the first laid in inor bequests to individunls and a gift to tbe town of a fine bell for the Tovm House, and $."'.000 for a ball and school-room at North Leominster, be bequeathed to tho town $5,000 for a Free Public Library, the income of $10,000 for tho support of tbo High School, and the iuconio of S;!,0()0 for the bcnelit of tbe school at the North Village. It is particularly for bis benefactions to the cause of education that bis name should be held in grateful remembrance by all lovers of sound learning and generous culture. 20 TOWN OF LEOMINSTER. out by (he town authorities of Leominster, all its earlier roads having been laid out by Lancaster. The record is as follows : " Laid out a By way from y" land of Cap. John Bennett, it begins at y" Mill pond of Mr. Ebcnezar Wilder about four Rods above y' Dam and Itt Runs strate inlo y' Broaid Roaid Unto The Bridge Made over 3-' Brook a little Distance north of y" Log House y' is Now John Bonnets and said Roaid Iss five rods wide and is Laid out by Thos. Wilder, ) Nathaniel Carter, > Select Men. October y* 1" 1740. Jonatdan Willson, ) And accepted by y" town in March town Meeting Leominster A. D. 17'12-3. And truly Rec"" p' Me. Tiios. Davenport, Town Clerk." This road now forms the portion of Main Street, in the North Village, from the stone bridge to a point near the engine-house, where the brook crosses the street, but has been greatly reduced in width. The raill-pond referred to is now tiic Wheelwright paper-mill pond. The " Broad Road," so called, was laid out five rods wide by the town of Lancaster, in 1734, from Lancaster, running near White's Pond, over FoUan-iby Hill, through the easterly part of the North Village, and on the westerly side of Chualoom Pond to Luueuburg, and now forms part of Prospect and Main streets. Within the no.xt fifteen or twenty jears all the principal roads in town were laid out siibslautially where they now are, except Mechanic Street from Monoosuock Brook to the Nashua River, laid out in 1800 and 1802 (communication with the easterly part of the town having before that time been by l!ie Divoll Road leading from Lancaster Street near the Johnson Place across the plain by the Ilollis J. Divoll Place to the river, now seldom used) ; the portion of Central between Union Street and Piatt's corner, laid out in 1850, and Pleasant Street, from Park to Franklin Street, laid out in 181G; so that for a hundred years or more thereafter but few entirely new roads were laid out, but some alterations were made, greatly improving portions of these roads, as in the case of Centr.d Street or the road to Sterling, avoiding Bee Ilill, made in 1830. Within the last ten years, however, a large number of new streets have been opened and old ones widened and straightened and many of them graded, with wide, paved side- walks, making them almost metropolitan in their character, and costing the town a very large amount of money. Among these recent improvements in roads is the new stone arch bridge over Monoosnock Brook, on Mechanic Street, built in 1873, — a very fine structnie, made of Leominster granite, dimension work, laid full joints in best cement mortar, on a solid ledge founda- tion, lift}' feet wide, with a twenty-four feet arch and a capped granite wall for railings, making a bridge which would seem to defy the ravages of time to destroy it. There are other fine, substantial stone bridges in town, made fifty feet wide to correspond with the width of the streets ; but none so large or costly as the two referred to. The town has always maintained good roads and bridges, aud to-day stands high in this respect. THE CENTRE COMMON. 21 It was uufoitunate (hat the towu did not origiually secure more land for a pul)lic park, but had it not been for the necessity of land for a meeting-house it would not, probably, have secured any. The "Centre Common," so called, contain! ug in the whole open space something over an acre of land, was conveyed to the town, in its parochial capacity, by Rufus Houghton, April 7, 1774, to build a meeting-house on for the use of the two precincts then existing in town, and was used for that purpose until the present First Congregational (Unitarian) meeting-house was built by the town in 1823, when the old meeting-house was removed, leaving this land thereafter open as a public park, but not belonging to the town in its nuuiicipal ca[)acity. When the First Congregational Society was organized in I83G, it succeeded to all the parochial rights of the town, including the ownership of this land, but in 1841 the society conveyed it by deed to the town for a public common. Up to the time of this convo^auce but little, if anythiug, had been done to improve this laud, which was unfenced, ban-en, with little if any shade, and uncouth-looking. About the time of the conveyance, however, after much opposition, leave was obtained, and some of the citizens set out a tree apiece on this land, sufficient in number, if they had all lived, to have given ample shade to all parts of it, but some of them have died and have never been replaced. Those which lived arc the stately elms and maples now standing thereon as a rich legacy to the present generation, and as fitting monuments to the forethought, generosity and public spirit of these fathers of the town. Eiforts were made from time (o time l)y individuals to induce the town to allow this land to be fenced by indi- vidual elTort, free of expense to the town, but it was so convenient for the farmers and others coming into the village to drive over this laud at will, that no such permission could be obtained until 1856, when the town not only granted pcrinissiou, but raised and appropriated sufScieut money, and during that summer built the present substantial fence. This at first was obnoxious to some, but soon became entirely satisfactory, and has been a great help to whatever of fertility and greenness exists there. That part of the land where the soldiers' monument now stands, before its erection in 1866, had become, by the filling of the streets around it, (juite low and wet, so that the foundation for the monument, which now seems low, the streets having been filled so much since that time, was four and a half feet high above the ground below the base of the monument. This is but a sample of the filling done in many of the streets of the centre village, which were originally low and muddy, but which are now so hard and dry. About 1741 the towu purchased of Ebenczer Houghton a piece of land near to, but not quite adjoining the first meeting-house lot, on the easterly side uf Main Street, for a cemetery, being t!ie present " Old Cemetery," so called, where most of the early settlers who died here after the incorporation of the town are buried. But few permanent improvements, bej'cuul making a substantial stono wall around it and the building of a hearse-house on this land, have ever becu 22 TOWN OF LEOmNSTER. made by the town, as such, on this ccmcti-iy, but iiKlividiials in former times built some handsome granite tombs, according to the fashion of the day, on the front line facing the street, which still remain, bnt which are wholly unused now, all bodies having been removed therefrom and buried in the earth. Bnt the town has for manj' years kept it in a neat and tidy condition, and individuals have always done more or less, and recently have done a good deal to maUc it attractive ; which, with the shade of the trees that have been allowed to grow, makes it far from an unattractive place of burial. The "New Cemetery," 80 called, further north, on the same side of the street, was commenced there in 1810 by the town's purchasing about seven and a half acres of land, and walling in the back side, and the erection of a substantial picket-fence on stone posts, in front and on the sides. The fence lasted, with small repairs, until 1878, when the rails and pickets were renewed, the posts not being subject to decay ; and immediately after its purchase the land was laid out into lots, and the town has allowed any citizen of the town, at any time, to take up a lot for burial purposes, by paying two dollars, if not wanted for immediate use ; one dollar if to be occupied at once, bringing the lots within the ability of everybody to own one. The regular size of lots is 1G| by 10 febt, and the whole plan is rectangular. The town has built the avenues and paths, set out the trees and keeps them in order ; and individuals have litted up and taken care of the lots, except mowing once or twice a year, which is done by the town. In 1870 the town took and purchased additi(jnal land to the amount of a!)out thirty acres, making the whole area about thirty-eight acres, which, it is thought, will last the town, with what remains of the old ground, about thirty or forty years. The surface, so far as hasl)een used, is quite level, but the remainder is uneven, and alTords more opportunit}^ for the display of art and taste. The monumental work is generally excellent, and some of it very fine. AVithin a lew 3'cars there has been considerable effort to change the place of burial, but after very thorough examination and long discussion, the town voted not to change, and has seemed to settle down permanently on its present place of interment. March 4, 1754, Oliver Carter gave the town a deed of the laud on the easterly side of Main Street, called the "Training Field," containing three and a fourth acres, "for a training field or perpetual common, with this l)rovision, that said town improve said land as a training field." Very few iniprovemcnts have over been made on this land in the way of beautifying it till quite recentl}', when some trees were set out and a substantial fence built around it ; but it has been so cut up by the railroad that not much can be done with it. The Leominster Water Works were built in 1873, aud the town commenced supplying water for pay Jan. 1, 1874. For many years prior to 1870 the people of the town rosi ling in the villages had felt the need of a better supply of pure soft water lor domestic purposes, and of more effective means of extinguishing fires; and the subject had beeu TOWN WATER WORKS. 23 somewhat disciissetl by a very few individuals, but uo coucertcd action had been taken, or perh!i[)s much thought of, till that year, when Manson D. Ilavvs, Esq., caused an article to be inserted in the warrant for a town meeting to bo held November 8, "to see what action the town will take to obtain water." At this meeting the subject was referred to a committee to examine and report at a future meeting, consisting of M. D. Haws, C. II. Mcrriam, J. II. Locke^', J. C. Allen, and Cephas Derby. On the 28th of the same month the commit- tee; reported, recommending to the town to petition the next legislature for authority to take water from Chualoom Pond, or such other place or places within four miles of the centre, as maybe found mo^t de.'^irable, and the report was adopted ; and the town voted that the same committee present the peti- tion in behalf of the town, and instructed them to take all [)roper measures to seiure such authority at the expense of the town ; $500 was appropriated to pay the expense. Mr. Lockey declining to act further with the committee, Dr. G. W. Peirce was elected to till his place, and Augustus Wliitman, Esq., was added to the committee. After considerable opposition in the legis- lature, authority was granted by chapter 2-1'J of the Acts of 1871, but requir- ing the town, before proceeding to act under it, to accept of it by a two-thirds majority, voting by ballot and nsing the check-list, at an annual meeting. This was done at the annual meeting held April 1, 1872, 497 voting in the affirma- tive to 17G in the negative. At the next town meeting held May G, 1872, a committee was chosen to examine and report a plan of proceedings to secure a supply of pure water, which reported May 20, 1872, and a committee was then ciioscn to make preliminary surveys and estimates, which last committee having lierformcd that duty, reported Dec. 30, 1872, and the town, on a test-vote of 249 yeas to 5 nays, decided to proceed with the work, and chose a water board, consisting of Emery Tilton and G. AV. Peirce for three years, H. M. Lane and George Ilall for two years, and C. 11. Merriam and Wm. M. Ilowland for one year, and the board organized by the choice of C. II. Merriam, chairman ; II. "M. Lane, clerk; and W. M Ilowland, treasurer; and the town, at an adjournment of this meeting held Jan. 13, 1873, authorized and instructed tlie board to proceed with the work, and at a siitiscquent meeting provided for a loan to pay the expense, which was obtained from the State treasurer, paya- l)ie, one-third each, in ten, fifteen, and twenty years, at seven percent, interest. The work was let out to Charles L. Goodhue, Esq , of Springfield, Mass., and completed by him to the satisfaction of the town Dec. 23, 1873, at which time the water was i)ermanently let into the pipes and has not since been drawn crt W. Ilaynes, George Ilaynes, Henry Sanderson, AVilliam K. Graves, .J. Franklin B jvnton. Charles A. Harris, Hiram W. Longley, Joseph L. Proctor, Albert Houghton, David Merrill, John Catin, Richard II. Wyeth, Joseph R. Graves. The third call was for thirteen men ; and each one hid $100 bounty for three years, and $7 State aid to family. These were : — Foster E. L. Beale, George II. Mclntire, L. O. Bruce, Gardner Vaughn, George H. Merrill, Eli S. Lancy, Lemuel Pitts, Jr., George S. Pitts, Charles II. Neale, Orlando 30 TOWN OF LUNENBURG. Hohimn, Ezekicl G. Bailey, James II. Smith, D.ivid N. Kilbnrn, Cbarlcs E. Marshall, "\Villi.im II. Wyelh, James A. Litchfield, Charles D. Page, J. Fiank Butler. The following arc inchidcd in the fourth cull, viz. : — Ilenr}' P. Kilburn, Forestus H. Jcwett, George A. Ilowiird, Levi Parker, George E. Brown, Clark Dulton, Eb. L. Blood, Henry II. Whitney, Fred. J. Lawrence, Benjamin F. Marshall, Samuel Wallis, Frank O. Cady, Oliver F. Brown, Ed. E. Carr, Levi W. Goodrich, George TV. Conant, Merrill B. Carlton, Andrew J. Green, Jesse A. Sargent, George A. Stalil, Noble Flsk. The fifth call came upon the people when luattcrs looked rather diihiotis, and the young men did not feel quite so ready to go, and a draft being ordered, the following responded with a substitute, if not in person, viz. : — Abijah S. Green, Anliir. E. E. Merriam. Jolin J. Ranisdcll, Charles Boj-nton, Martin Sanderson, George C. Jewelt, Albert L. Ileywood, William B. Neat, .Jesse A. Sargent, IMarcus F. Prue. In addition, we are pleased to say that tiic following arc, or were formerly residents of this town, though not counted as part of its quota : — James A. Cunningham (since Adjutant-General of the State), Charles II. Cunning- ham (Major of -i'th Wis.), George P. Cotting, Ed. F. Emoiy, James R. Gilchrist, AVilliam A. Ilildreth, Rev. William A. Mandell, James Sav.ige, Jr., Clark Simonds, George S. Gilchrist, Warren E. Gilchrist, Stillman Stone (Capt. Vt. V. JI.). The whole number of residents sent to the war was one hundred and two. Thiity were killed, or died of wounds or imprisonment ; fourteen were wounded ; lifty-eighl came home iniinjured. The town furnished nine men more than the real quota, and in all sent one hundred and lifty-nine men, at a cost to the town and individuals of fully $34,000. The town voted to "refund to individuals all money, except to those drafted." In 18G6 the town erected two tablets, with the names of the fallen dead suitably engraved thereon, in the present town hall, at a cost of about $300. It is matter of great r.grct that the "$300 commutation" was not refunded to each individual. The first settlers had l)ut little advantages for schooling; for a long time the schools were kept at private houses in different parts of the town, at the expense of those who had children to educate and means to do it with. Rev. Andrew Gardner taught the first school of which we find any record, in the i>arsonage where Martin Jy the assistance of Rev. M. Crowe] 1 ; and worshipped in private families and school-houses, till a house, situated north of the cemetery on Northliold road, was fitted up for a church in 1813. The present church was built in 1829. In 1812, the Advcutists so changed (ho views of some of the members that the society came near losing its organi- zation. A portion were allowed to leave, while the balance kept the society alive, and have prospered, with slight exceptions, to the present time. They luive had about sixty ditlerent speakers. One of the strongest supporters of this church, and for a long life, is the venerable Ejjhraim Jones, now eight}'- seven j-cars old. Universalism was quite strong in 1840, and, with Rev. Jolm Pearce as preacher, caused some stir in church affairs. It had much to do with toning down the old style of preaching ; and immediately following that, the Spirit- ualists took a strong hold on the community, and have set all in a degree to thinking, "if these things be so." F. S. Francis built the first town hall, in 1839, for $1,200. This was sold and moved from its old site opposite Mr. Francis, when the town bought the Unitarian Church in 1807. This church was moved north of D. Putnam's store, and fitted into a commodious building for the use of the town, at an expense of $9,1G5.32. The first establishment for the benefit of the poor, was bought of Jonathan Parker, in 1828, for $3,424. Previously the poor had been kept l)y the one who would do it cheapest. The town voted, in 1874, to sell that farm, as the house had been burned, and buy the " Sp.'iuldiug Place," at "Mulpus Falls," at an expense of $3,000. During the early wars people were warned out of town fliat (hey might not gain a settlement, j'ct some of such, who remained, proved the most valued citizens in after years. Rev. Mr. Adams said that, in 1793, the town had become famous for ))aui)crs, "owing to the fecundity of the people;" to-day, with the same num- ber of people (1,150), we have less than a dozen, and at an expense of alxnit $100 each per year. D. Putnam built a pleasant building for a store, the only one in town, near the old site, a few years since ; and R. W. Snow moved the old store north of the town hull, and fitted it into a dwelling. The Lowe Brothers have a meat-packing establishment near "Baker's Brook," on Fitchl)urg Railroad, in south-west corner of town, which has an extensive business. 40 TOWN OF LUNENBURG. Samuel Johnson opened a hotel where J. S. Wilson lives, in 1729, which was known far and near for half a century, as one of the most excellent for accommodations in New England, and was the head-quarters of the settlers to do town business, he being selectman from 172!) to 1750. In later ^ears James Patterson kept a tavern at J. W. Woolson's, and later Philip Good- ridge, Jr., one at Massapog; and in 1792 Benjamin Goodrich's house was made an inn (south of Whalom). Mr. Reddington kept one at Asa Whiting's ; Jcdcdiah Estabrook at the Gilchrist House, north of centre, in 1780; while the present "Revere" is the only one in town, it having been iu existence nearly or quite a century. The first pound was at Samuel Page's, and he was keeper. The next one, near the [)rescnt one, at the junction of the roads ; where also stood an oak tree, the famous "whipping-post," where rogues were sure to get their "just deserts." In tiie year 1850 the town organized a Iil)rary by purchasing a few books, and accepting donations of others from the farmers' cinl) and private clubs; they also appointed Mrs. S. D. King, librarian. In 18()7, Miss Frances Cald- well left a legacy of $500 to the town ; the interest, or $30, to be used annually for books. There are at present about two thousand volumes in the library, which is kept iu the town hall. For nearly twenty years the library was at the residence of the librarian. Dr. John Taylor early settled where Sirs. N. F. Cimningham now lives, and remained some fifteen j-ears. Then followed Dr. John Dunsmoor, at L. A. Snow's, and was a surgeon in the army. Dr. Abraham Haskell lived at Mr. Woolson's ; also, his son followed him iu the profession, and lived at the present hotel. Aaron Bard followed, and his office is still standing. Otis Abcrcrombie was his successor, and finally S. D. King. Since then there have been quite a number here for a short time, but most people employ i)hysicians from the adjiiining towns, and as a result we have no sm-geon among us. Below are given lists of various civil offices, and of parties who have suc- cessively occupied them : — Town Clerics. — Isaac Farnsworth, Bcnj. Goodriflge, 20 years, Bcnj. Bellows, Jr., "\Vm. Downe, Tbos. Sparliawk, Jontitban Lowe, Geo. Kiml)al!, Jcdciliah Bailey, I'J years, Jacob Welsh, Win. Cunningham, 10 years, Abraham Haskell, Jr., N. F. Cnn- ningliani, 8 j'ears, Josiah Stearns, A. Bard, Wm. Harrington, Edmund Cusbing, John R. Rollins, James Putnam, 28 years, F. Brooks. Town Treasurers. — Ed. llarlwcll, S. Johnson, James Colburn, Jonathan Iluhhard, John Grout, Thos. Prentiss, Josiah Dodge, Wra. Stearns, Abijah Stearns, Joshua Iliilchins, Geo. Kimball, John Bailey, A. Stearns, J. Lowe, S. Graham, Jcdediah Esta- brook, Josiah Stearns, Geo. Kimball, Bcnj. Reddington, James Stearns, Ste[)hcn Slick- ncy, N. F. Cunningham, Jacob Caldwell, Wm. Harrington, Simeon Ileywood, Thos. Riley, Edmund Cnsbing, A. Bard, James Putnam, 30 years, F. Brooks. Moderators. — Josiah VHUard, Sam'l Johnson, Benj. Goodridge, Jonathan Hubbard, Isaac Farnsworth, John Grout, Thos. Prentiss, Ililkiah Boynton, John Ileywood, STATISTICS. 41 Joshua riutcbiiis, Asabel Ilartwell, Wm. Snow, Jonathan Wood, Wm. Stearns, J(jbn Taylor, Jonathan Lowe, Geo. Kimball, John Fuller, Sam'l Billings, Josiah Stearns, Jacob AVelsh, Wni. ("unninghatn, Thos. Kimball, Chas. Cashing, N. F. Cunningliam, EJ. Gushing, Wni. Brown, Dan'l Putnam, Davitl Wood, Sam'l Ilolman, David Wooil, Jr., Robert Kimball, C. A. Goodrich, F. M. Marston, G. A. Cunningham, James Ilil- dreth, 2d. Representatives. — There is no record of the members of the General Court till 1754, when John IIe3'wood was elected ; Edward Ilartwell in 17GG ; John Taylor in 1772 and '74 ; Geo. Kimball in 1777-78 ; Josiah Stearns in 1780 and '9G-98 ; Jacob Welch, 1799 ; Thos. Kimball in 1800; Ed. Gushing in 1806, '10 '11 and '20; Thomas Brooks in 1812; Daniel Putnam in 1829; N. F. Cunningham in 1834. Wm. Harlow in 183G; Daniel Low, Jr., 1838-40; Sewell Boutwell in 1842-3; libra Lewis in 1844; John Lane in 1845; Willard Porter 18.J0 ; Isaac Harrington, 2d, in 1851; James Putnam, 1852, Geo. D. Brown, 1854; Solomon Tarbell, Jr., in 18G1 ; Eeuben W. Snow, 18G5 ; Elnathan Davis, 1868 ; Wm. Baker, 1872 ; Adin C. Estabrook in 1875 ; James Hildretli, 2d, 1877, — each elected in November. Josiah Stearns was delegate to revise the Constitution in 1820, and senator in 1702 to fill a vacancy-; and in 1793 was again chosen b}' the people. At the first election of the Commonwealth Sept. 4, 1780, John Hancock had forty-eight votes for governor and only four scattering. In 1729, jurors were first chosen in town meeting. "We cannot close withont acknowledging our oljligations to j\Irs. N. F. Cun- ningham for being permitted to copy extensively from an unpublished history of this town, now iu her possession, the work of the late George A. Cun- ningham. 42 TOWN OF MENDON. ME N D O N. BY JOHN G. METCALF, M. D. CHAPTER I. FIRST GRANTS OF LAXD — AXCIENT BOUNDARIES — RIVERS — INDIAN TROUBLES FIRST CORN-MIH, EARLY PROCEEDINGS BELLINGIIAM INCORPORATED UXBRIDGE — UPTON. Mendon is the oldest town in tbc county except Lsincaster, and, before Blackstone (the south parish of Mendon) was incorporated, was the south- eastern town in the county. May 28, 1G59, the town of Braintroc petitioned the General Court for a new plantation. The Court granted their petition so far as to allow them liberty to seek out a place and "present their desires, with the names of such persons as will engage to carry on such a work, unto the next session of this Court." Oct. IG, IfiGO, the Court granted them a plantation of eight miles square, and when a "full number of persons, with an able minister with them, should appear, they would assign them duo bounds." May 22, 1662. The conmiissioners, Eliazcr Lusher, Roger Clap and William Parke, chosen by the General Court to establish rules for the new plantation at Netmocke, certified to the General Court that "a full number of persons" had presented themselves, of wh(jm thiiteen were from Braintrce and ten from "Weymouth. The alilc minister M-as Mr. John Rayuer, from Weymouth. Dedham, Dec. 30, 1063. The commissioners gave notice that those who had been accepted must settle, with their families, at the plantation, by the middle of November, 1664, or lose their rights there. In the meantime Moses Paine and Peter Brackett, of Braintrce, had purchased the eight miles square of the Indians for twenty-four pounds sterling. In 1667 the inhabitants of Quinshepaiige (Mendon) presented a plat, surveyed by Joshua Fisher of Dedham, and petitioned for an act of incor- poration. May I'), 1667, the plantation of Quinshepauge was incorporated by the name of Mendon, and was assigned to the county of Middlesex. INDIAN DIFFICULTIES. 43 The ancient boundaries of the town •were as follows, viz. : Bejjinninii: at a point (well known at this day) upon the south hank of Charles Kivcr, thence down stream one mile, thence north four miles wanting forty rods, thence west eight miles, thence south eight miles, thence east eight miles, and thence north four miles and forty rods, to the first bound. These ample bounds, by the successive incorporations of Uxbridgc, North- bridge, Upton, JNIiiford, Bellingham and Blackstone, have been so largely curtailed of their fair proportions that the Meudou of to-day contains but 11,375 acres of the 40,960 of the original grant. At its incorporation the town was covered with a heavy growth of oak, pine, chestnut and cedar, save a few acres in the vicinity of the rivers and brooks, used by the Indians for planting-grounds. Its principal streams arc the Blackstone, Muniford, IMill and Charles rivers, generall}' flowing in a southerly direction, following the similar trend of the hills. The hills of note are Magormiscok (its northern i)ortion now known by the name of Silver Hill) and Bear hills, now in INIilford ; Caudlewood, Waterbug and Chestnut hills, in Blacki-tonc ; Goat and Wolf hills, in Uxbridgc ; while Misco, West, Wigwam, Caleb's, Pond and Neck hills arc within the present limits of the town. The grant for Mendon was located on the territory of the Nipmuck Indians, but, having purchased the land by a deed which guaranteed the premises "to be free and clear of all incumbrances from the foundation of the world to the present time," there was little margin for disturbances between the grantors and grantees. History and tradition are both silent as to any trouble with the Indians until 1()75, when King Phili|)'s war broke out, Mendon being the first place attacked within the limits of the Massachusetts Colony. The attack, headed by Matoonas, was made July 14, 1G75. Contemporary notices of this assault convey but meagre intelligence of its result. Cotton Mather says four or five were then slain. A petition of Matthias Puffer, recently found in the State archives, affirms that his wife and eldest son were among those killed at Mendon. No names of other victims have as yet been ascertained. Matoonas lived at Quinsigamond, wherethe Apostle Eliot and Maj. Gookiu had installed the sachem as a justice of the peace, and Matoonas as constable, sup- )>osiug they had converted them to Christianity. The sachem soon grew tired of the war, and, to make his peace with the English, surrendered Matoonas, bound with withes, at Boston. He was summarily tried, and sentenced to be shot, the Indians volunteering as executioners. His head was cut off and stuck on a j)ole on Boston Common, near that of his son, who was hung the year before for murder. Upon the alarm reaching Boston, Capt. Ilenc^hman was immediately sent for relief, Mendon was declared a frontier town, and the inhabitants forbidden to abandon the settlement. It was, however, abandoned at the apjjroach of winter, and the town was soon after burned by the Indians. 44 TOWN OF MENDOX. Altliough the war was soon terminated by the death of King Philip, nuiiii- cipal government was not reorganized in Mendon nntil 16S0. Some of t'.ic inhabitants had, however, returned before that time, as the record of births in the Middlesex Connty records show. Among the inconveniences and hardships to which the inhabitants of all new and frontier settlements are subject, the chief grievances of the people here were that they were fifteen miles from the nearest corn-mill at Mcdfield, and that they "were meanly provided with racddo." The erection of a grist-mill on Mill River (hence its name), by Benjamin Albee, relieved them of the one grievance, and, pursuant to their petition, the General Court, by a grant of "moi-e meddo without their line," abated the other. The commissioners for overseeing the settlement at Netmocke, among others, established the following rule: that one hundred and fifty acres should be granted to an estate of £100 ; viz., thirty acres for the house lot, ten acres for meadow, five acres for swamp, and one hundred and five acres for the great lot ; and according to this proportion for all other estates, be the}' more or less. This rule was to be observed in all divisions of land, until the settlement should be incorporated as a town, nor do we find that this rule was materially changed afterwards. In after times, when land was sold or grants were made for services rendered the town, unless the -conveyance contained the clause "and entitled to all the rights and privileges which lots of like dimensions have," the grantee or the beneficiary gained no interest in the common lands yet undivided. Such were not regarded as proprietors. Dec. 12, 1G70, Moses Paine and Peter Bracket, being so directed by the General Court, assigned the deed they had received from the Indians to the selectmen of Mendon, for ihe use of the inhabitants. The first town meeting was held June 7, 1667, when "the firemen and the rest of the Inhabitants did choose for thciro Selectmen, to order their Pru- deutiall affairs, Col. Willi Crowne, Goodman Benjamin Albee, ffardinando Thayre, Dan : Lovett and John Thompson, seniour, & Col. Crowne for Register." From this time, except from 1675 to 1680, we have an unbroken record of the transactions of the town to the present day. In early times, in the transaction of municipal aflairs, the people did little else than choose the principal town oflicers, always charging them, however, "to make such rules as should clear the town from the penalty of the law." Sept. 16, Daniel Lovett was chosen "Clarke of the "Writts." It was his duty to grant "summons and attachments," and to return to the county clerk the births and deaths, many of which, so returned by him, may now be seen in Middlesex County archives, at Cambridge. This year a bounty of 20s. was offered for every wolf killed within the limits of the town. PROGRESS OF SETTLEMENT. 45 Jan. G, 1GG9, Col. Crownc was chosen "to bo Returned to the General Court to gaine power to take y° virclict of y" Jury upon y" death of John Lovett (killed by an unruly horse), to Marry and to give the present Constable his oath." About this time it was ordered, "to take into this town but six more fiimilies " Upon these eight miles square there are living, to-day, more than twenty thousand people. About this time, "some disquiet" having arisen in regard to municipal affairs, a committee of three was chosen l)y the General Court to visit Mcudon and "regulate their Prudentials." In 1672 persons absent from town meeting, or leaving before the close, were fined 2s. In lG7o, Col. Crowne having removed from town, IMr. Ralph Wheelock of Medtield (fifteen miles away) was appointed by the General Court to admin- ister oaths, and to marry persons belonging to either town. Jan. 1, 1G74, the town appointed John Thompson, Sr., "for to keepe an Ordinary' and publiqno Hous of Intcrtainment." Ab;)ut this time the pro- prietors began to keep records separate from the town, in which the lands set f)ff to the proprietors or sold to others were recorded. By a decision of the Supreme Court, a few j^ears ago, these records wci-e rciniinded from the last clerk of the proprietors to the custody of Ihc town of Mendon. In the Colony tax to defray the expenses of King Philip's war, when there were but forty- nine towns in the Colony, the tax for "Mendham" was £G G<. 2d. In 1G82 Josiah Chapin built the first s:nv-mill, upon Muddy Brook, just north from Post's Lane. M.-itthias Puffer i)uilt the second gri^t-mill, upon the site of the old one built by Benjamin Albee, which was burned by the Indians. Joseph Stevens, the first blacksmith, being dead, James Bick was t;> have a ten-acre lot provided he would do "the town's smithery work." Pmt James j)roved a crooked stick, for he would neilhcr do the "smilhcry " work, ])ay for his lot, or quit it. Finding Bick bent on bickering, the constable was ordered to pull down his fences. Upon this lie emigrated to Bhodc Island. The usurpation of Andros having terminated in 1G8!), the town chose Ensigu Josiah Chapin a delegate to atteiid a convention to provide for the government of the Colony. In 1GS9 taxes could be paid in mone\', or in wheat at .')■<. C)d., barley or barley malt at 3.s. 6d., rye at 3.s., and pease at 4.s. per bushel. I(;!t2. The tract of land known as the North Purchase was bought of the Indians for £3 sterling. It is now the north part of Millbrd. H)i)3, March 1. Capt. Josiah Chapin was cliosen clerk of the market, and Benjamin Wheelock, San)ucl Ha3-ward and Samuel Tyler were chosen tything- nicn. This was the first time these offices were filled. The train-I)and was to give one day's work for cutting wood and carrying it to the minister. 1G94. Assessors were chosen for the first time, and the first pound and stocks were built, thus early providing the means for restraining damage feasant, whether committed by man or beast. 46 TOWN OF MENDON. 1099. Sixteen wolves were killed this year, and "their cars cut off as the law directs." Of tlic first settlers np to this time, the following persons iiad died; viz., Gcorfre Aldrich, John ftprairnc, John Thompson, Sr., Dca. Simon Peck, Daniel Lovett, Dca. John ^Vartield, Tiniotiiy Winter, AValtcr Cook and Jacob Aldrich. 1703. This year tlie names of seventy persons are fonnd on the tax list. 1704. The Indians upon the eastern frontiers of the Colon}' began to commit depredations, and a general Indian war was deemed imminent. Men- don v.as again declared a frontier town, and one-half of the niiiitia-mcn were required by law to provide themselves with "a pair of good, serviceable mogginsons and snow shoes," in anticipation of a winter campaign. The "raogginsons and snow shoes," however, were not called into service, as the Indians failed to put in an appearance. About this time an attempt was made to oust some squatters, from Khodc Island, near Shokolog Pond (now in Uxbridge). In the attempt Joseph and Robert Taft were made prisoners, and carried to Providence; but, as they charged tlie town but Gs. apiece for the campaign, it is supposed their captivity was of short duration. At this time the road leading north was known as the Marlborough Road, the one leading south as the Rehoboth Road, the one west as the Connecticut Road, and the three leading east as the Sherburne, Medfield and Wrentham roads. In 1711 a grist-mill was built on Cliailes River, and was the first one wilhiu the limits of the present town of Bellinghani. In 1712 the aggregate of all taxes were £208 Hs. 2ill3 eoon began to depreciate, and came down to 5s. 6d. in the poinid. NEW TOWNS FORMED. 47 Sept. 5, 1726. Mention is n:-'^« of a great sickness, l>ut the only recorded deaths during its supposed prevalence were those of Ebenezer Wliite, Benjamin Wiicaton and Josiah Chapiii, Esq. June 27, 1727. Another portion of territory is talven away and incorporated l)y the name of Uxhridge, being the west part of the town. April 2, 1731. The county of Worcester was incorpoi-ated, nnd IMendon, which had belonged lirst to the county of Middlesex and afterward to the county of SuiTolli, since 1G71, was absorbed in the new county, though much against her will. Up to this time, 1732, ail the roads remained at their original width — that of ten rods. From this period they began to sell portions of the roads to the abutters, so that, tinaliy, the roads were brought to the width of four rods. For cvei'y ram running at large it was voted the owner should pay five shillings, or not have him, and Gd. a week for keeping him. 1733. Raised £100 for repair of roads, and that those who did not work out their taxes l:»st year may do so this year, at the bridge by Samuel Thomp- son's mill, now ]\lillville, in Blackstouc. June 14, 1735. The General Court (" seeing that the outlands of the sevei-al toans of Mendon, Uxbridge, Sutton and Ilopkinton are completely filled with inhabitants, and by reason of their remoteness from the places of public worship,") incorporated the town of Upton. iMay 18, 1737. Voted to raise £40 to let the fish up Patuckct River, pro- vided other towns will pay their proportion. May 22, 1738. Something new under the sun 1 Benjamin Wheelock was chosen representative to the General Court, and " refused to serve " Ebenezer Merriam was then chosen representative to the General Court, and he didn't refuse to serve. This was nothing new under the sun. 1739. The selectmen were directed to lease the burying-yard fir thirty years to some g.)od man, provided he will enclose it witli a good stone wall. 1740, May 19. Upon the question of dividing the town, the modcr.itDr directed those who were in favor of it to place themselves upon the women's side of the house, and those who were opposed upon the men's side. 1744, March G. It was voted to erect a monument over the grave of the Rev. Grindal Rawson, late minister of Mendon. Voted, that the Mill River Precinct have the town's old law-baok diu-ing tlie pleasure of the town. 174G. Voted to forego a tax of £2 14.'!. 5(1. 3/., new tenor, which is, in old tenor, £10 17s. lid., a discount of seventy-five per cent. 1749. Raised £300, old tenor, for town chsirgcs. 1751. Voted to build a school-house, for the use of the town, near the meeting-house in the East Precinct. Its cost was £212 lis., old tenor. 1753. Wages to be paid on the highway this year were, fjr a man, 2s., and for a man and team, 5«. a day, old tenor. 48 TOWN OF MENDON. 1754. Tliis yeur the long controversy hetwccn Mcndon ami Uxhii Isje about the boniulary liiic was ainieal)ly adjusted, and the present line was confirmed by the General Court. CHAPTER II. MEXDOX DUniXG THE WAIIS — FliEXCII AXD IXDIAX AVAR THE REVOLUTION INFLATED CUUREXCV MILFORD INCORPORATED BLACKSTOXE ACTION DURIX(J THE REBELLIOX RI-CEXTEXXIAL CELERRATIOX FISHERV EDU- CATION — FIRST SCHOOL- HOUSE SECOND AND THIIID HIOII SCHOOL. The town records make no mention that Mcndon furnished any men for the French war; but upon a search among the arciiives at the State House, it was found th:it the town raised sevcut\'-four men for the cx|)edition in 1755. In 1757, twenty-nine men marched from Mendon for the relief of Fort Wil- liam Henry. In 1750, when the war was virtually ehiscd by the conquest of Quebec, ]\Iendou furnished ninety men ; and in 17G0, Mcndon furnished twentx- one men for the reduction of ^Montreal. 17G4, March 7. The selectmen reported that they had warned forty-thrco persons out of town, according to law. A colonial census was taken this year, and the whole population of Mendon was one thousand eight hundred and forty-three. 1771. The valuation of Mendon this year was as follows, viz. : — Hoal estate, £1,100 15.9. 2d. ; personal, £2,55S 5s. 4d. ; acres of tillage, seven hundred and eight; and ratable polls, four hundred and three. As early as 1773, the people of iSIendon passed twenty resolves, presented by Joseph Dorr, Esq., as chairman of .a committee, condemning, in vigorous and patriotic terms, the encroachments of the British government. In 1774, they resolved thej' would regard all persons l)uying goods from England as enemies of their country. To the call for men, after the battle of Lexington, Mendon responded wit'.i one hundred and sixt\'-fi)ur men. Just how many men were furnished by the town for the war, the imperfect state of the muster-rolls at the State House make it impossible to determine. At one time, in 1778, there were seventy- five men in the army. This year the town voted to approve of the Articles of Confederation, and rejected the draft of a State constitution, made by the General Court, by a vote of fifty-seven to two. June 19, 1780. The town raised £10,000 to defray t )wn charges, and £13,000 to buy beef for the army. At this time the Continental money had depreciated so that £100 in specie would buy £0,400 in paper. Ai)ril 11, 1780. After a long struggle, the East, or Mill River Precinct was IN THE ^A'ARS. 49 incorporated by (he name of Milford, aud all matters of business between the two towns were amicably adjusted. The first election under the St;ite Constitution, which had just been ratified by the people, took place Sept. 4, 1780, when John Hancock was chosen governor. Joseph Dorr, Esq., of Mcudon, was chosen a senator by the people, and a counciUor b^' the General Court. 1781. Thisjearthetotalvaluationof Mendou was£3,70S18s. 4fZ. hard money. 1782. At the State election this year, no votes were cast in Mendon, "though repeatedly called for," but for what reason is not known. 1786. Sha3's' Rebellion occurred this year, but the people of Mendon did not sympathize with the movement. December 4, Capt. William Torrey, with his company, marched to Worcester. When a requisition was made for twelve hundred men, Mendon furnished sixty-three of the. number. 1792. A small-po\' hospital was allowed, and Dr. Joseph Adams had charge of it. In the war of 1812, it was voted to allow each soldier in the service seven dollars a month in additioa to the pay allowe 1 by law. 181G. Lewis Allen, collector of taxes, absconded, having embezzled a por- tion of the money he had collected. His bondsmen supplied the deficit. 1818. The fourth highway district were allowed to work out their highway taxes, "agreeable to their own minds." They made no report of their doings I 1819. Raised $1,200 to defray town charges; $1,000 for repair of roads, and $800 for schools, 1820. Hon. Jonathan Russell aud Dr. Daniel Thnrbcr were chosen delegates to the convention for revision of the State Constitution. 1821. The town adopted Articles 2, 3, (!, 8 and 14, while the State at large adopted the articles from 1 to 9 inclusive. 1823. A committee of thirteen was chosen to recommend measures for the suppression of intemperance, but no report of their doings is found. The subject of dividing the town began to be agitated, and it was frequently the subject of discussion at town meetings, the vote being gciierally against the division. 1825. The subject of a division was brought before the Gcnci'al Court this year upon the petition of Sclh Hastings and others. 182G. The petition being lost, as reported by the committee on towns, the matter of dividing the town at this time came to an end. It was supposed that the petition was surreptitiously removed. 1830. Raised $1,200 for schools ; $1,200 for repair of roads and bridges, and $3,000 for town charges. The farm of Caleb Mowry was bouglit for $3,400 for a poor-farm, and the poor were removed to the same. 1834. OI)adi:ih Wood, a representative from this town, introduced a bill in the General Court greatly reducing the number of representatives, and the same became a law. ToL. n.— 7 50 TOWN OF MENDON. 1835. The selectmen were insfnictcd to withhold their approbation for licenses for the sale of intoxicatinc: liquors. 1837. The town treasurer /?)■.<.< required to give bonds. The United States being free from debt, and having a surphis of aliout seventy millions, placed it on deposit with the several States. ISIassachusctts placed her share on deposit with the several towns. Mcndon received $(>,921.G4, of which sum Blackstoue at its incorporation received $4,803.45, leaving for Mendon $2,118.19, which has been kept intact and at interest to this time for the use of the schools. 1840. The enrolled militia were five hundred and five. At the presidential election the Democratic ticket had three hundred and five, the AVhig ticket three hundred and one, the others seven. No representative was chosen. 1841. The fourteenth article of the amendments to the constitution having been adopted, Mendon was entitled to but one representative. 1843. Town officers' report printed for the first time. 1844. The division of the town .again mooted, and a petition to that effect put in circulation. 1845. The town was divided by the parish line, and the new town incor- porated by the name of Blackstoue, March 25, 1845. In the North Parish (Mendon) were three hundred nind nineteen polls; real estate, $379,374; personal, $137,391 ; and in the South Parish (Blackstoue) were six hundred and ninety-six polls; real estate, $548,299; personal, $3(56,025. Of the sur- plus revenue Mendon had $2,118.19, and Blackstoue, $4,803.45. 1846. The enrolled militia were two hundred and two. 1847. The two towns voting together until 1850, as by the act incorporating Blackstone they were required to do for representatives to the General Court, Rev. Benjamin D. Peck was chosen representative. He was afterward State treasurer of Maine. 1849. Raised $500 for roads, $800 for schools, $750 for the poor, and $400 for incidental expenses. A fire-engine was purchased thisj year, but was sold, without being used, to the town of Milford, at a loss of about $450. 1850. Harrison Hall was purchased of the proprietors by the town, and to be known hereafter as the town hall 1852. The road (now Elm Street) laid out by the county commissioners. The enrolled militia were two hundred and eighteen, 1853. A fire-proof safe for holding the records was purchased and placed in the town hall. 1854. Work on the highway was paid twelve and one-half cents per hour, and the same for oxen and cart ; for a plow, fifty cents per day. The Kansas-Nebraska bill being before Congress, strong resolutions were passed by the town deprecating the act. 1855. A receiving tomb was erected at the old burying-ground. 1857. The 20th, 21st and 22d articles of amendments to the Constitution were adopted by l;nge mjijorifies. SECOND CENTENNIiUv. 51 1S57. The farm of Milliiis A. Taft was bought for a poor-furm, the Mowry farm having been sold at (he incorporation of Blackstoiie in 1845. Nov. 3, the first election under the district system. John G. Metcalf of Mendon was elected senator for the Worcester south-eastern district, and Samuel W. Scott of Uxbridge representative for the 20th "Worcester district. 1850. The 23d article of amendment to the Constitution adopted by a vote of 39 to 3G. 18G0. Raised $1,000 for the support of schools, $500 for the poor, $600 for repair of highways, and $1,000 for incidental expenses. 18(U. At the November meeting, the town voted to hire $5,000, to help sustain the war against secession ; and the selectmen were directed to pay $1 per week each to the wife and children under sixteen years of age of any iniiab- itant in the military service of the United States, and also the same sum each to any parent, brother, sister or child dependent upon such person at tiio time of his entering the army. The amount of bounties paid by the town was §1G,085, besides $2,510 paid by individuals. Large sums were also paid as State aid, the same being reim- bursed by the State at the close of the year. During the war, Mendon fur- nished 132 men, being 16 in excess of the number required by the several calls. The number of those who died in the service was 10, and (he bodies of but four were brought home for burial. 1864. Fifteen cents per hour was allowed for work on the highway for a man, the same for oxen and cart, and ten cents per hour for a plow. Raised $1,200 for schools, $550 for the poor, $1,000 for roads, $1,000 for incidental expenses, and $1,000 for interest on the war debt. 1865. Raised $1,200 for schools, $550 for the poor, $1,000 for roads, $1,000 for incidental expenses, $1,000 for interest, and $5,000 to reduce the town debt. 18G7. May 15. The two hundredth anniversary of the incorporation of the town was celebrated this day by an address from Rev. CarKou A. Staples of Providence, a native of Mendon, and a poem by Judge Henry Chapin of Worcester, a na(ive of Upton. Twelve hundred persons partook of a subs(an- tial repast provided by William Tufts of Boston. 18G8. The High School was established. 1870. The fish commissioners leased Mendon Pond for twenty years, to Leonard J. Wilson of Milford and John Bliss of Newton, " for the cultivation of useful fishes," at $656, payable by instalments. The lessees have stocked the pond with black bass and land-locked salmon. The enrolled militia were found to be 144. Voted that no persons bo allowed to sell intoxicating liquors. 1871. Voted that, to all taxes not paid by September 10, one per cent, per month shall be added until paid. The line between Bellinsham and Mendon established by the General Court. 52 TOWN OF JIENDON. The repairs made ou the road from tho house of Silas Diullcy to Milford line, hy order of the county commissioners, cost $().950, the lonprlh of the road Ijcing 306 rods. 1872. The poor-farm leased (afterwards sold), and the poor provided for elsewhere. The school-house in District No. 1 was l)uilt, at a cost of $1,800. A self-acting fire-engine and portable extinguishers were purchased, at a cost of $1,300. The building formerly the Mendon Bank was purchased and fitted up for a hall of records, at a cost of $025. 1873. It was voted that a bount}' of ten cents be paid for each woodchuck killed within the limits of the town. 1874. Raised $1,700 for schools, $1,200 for the poor, $1,500 for roads, $800 for incidental expenses, $1, GOO for payment of interest, and $2,000 for payment of principal. D. C. Howard was paid $490.79 as damages and costs for injuries received by reason of a defect in the highw.ay leading to Milford. 1877. The law-ofEce of the late "Warren Rawson, Esq., was bought and converted into a "Lock-np for Tramps." The educational growth of the town began Jan. 8, 170^, by voting the erec- tion of the lirst school-house, and installing Dca. John Warficld, wlio came from Dedham, as the first schoolmaster. In 1709, the miuister (Rev. Grindal Rawson) offered, if the town would procure a Latin schoolmaster, to give him his board for four j'ears. The town voted to do so, and that his salary should be twent}' pounds a year; but, as no further mention is made of a Latin schoolmaster, it is supposed thn project fell through. At an early day, the school and the ministiy were regarded as proprielors, and so, when au}^ division of land was agreed on, the school and the ministry had each a lot assigned them. In after times, these lots were sold, and the proceeds applied to their support. In 1712, Dea. Warficld having resigned his position, the selectmen " being informed of one Robert Ilusse (Hews), who had formerly been emplo^'ed in that service at Eastham, Agreed to endeavour the obtaining him." At the end of two years, Martin Pcarce succeeded him, and was to have seventeen pounds a year, " with his bord and Dyett." In 1718, William Boyce was hired for a schoolmaster for twenty-eight pounds per year. In 1721, William Boyce was still the schoolmaster, and was to keep school in four places; viz., at the school-house by Dca. Warficld's, over Mill River, at the south end of the town, and about the Great River. 1728-30, Griudal Rawson kept school here, and was to have £22 10;. for eix mouths. He was the eleventh child of Rev. Grindul Rawson, and had SCHOOL MATTERS. 53 graduated from Harvard College in 1728. He was settled in the ministry at S(juth Hadie}', where he remained until 1741, whence he removed to East Haddam, Conn., and died there March 27, 1777, aged seventy. In 1733, it was voted that the school should be kept the three summer months and the three winter mouths at the school-house, and the other six months where the selectmen should direct, and Samuel Terry was hired "to keep a Grammar School for four months for £20." 1735. This year forty pounds were raised to pay town debts and the schoolmaster; but, as no mention is made of the amount of the town debts, Tve are left in doubt how liirge a mo5ety fell to the share of the schoolmaster. At this time, Samuel Terry was succeeded by John Field, who was hired for three months. 173G. John Field was continued as schoolmaster, aud "is to keep six months in the town and six months in the outskirts of the town, aud is to have £45 for his services." Nov. 26, 1737. Capt. William Rawson was hired to keep a grammar school for three months. In 1737, he was hired to keep a grammar school for ten months, at fift}' pounds per annum. lie was the nephew of Rev. Grindal Rawson, and graduated at Harvard College in 1703. In 1738, Josiah Marshall, A. M., was hired to keep school six months, "according to the direction of the Province Laws," for thirty pounds old teuor, in bills of credit of the Province of the Massachusetts Bay. In 1742, Josiah Marshall, A. M., was hired to keep a grammar school for a year for nineteen pounds, lawful money, or bills of credit equivalent thereto. In 1744, Josiah Marshall, A.M., was again chosen schoolmaster; "but the town refused to build a new school house." In 174r>, Samuel Thayer and six others were chosen a committee "to con- sider the affair of building a school house or school houses and report at the next town meeting." At this lime, there was but one school-house in the town. 1747. Voted not to hire Mr. Josiah Marshall as schoolmaster, and, as no further mention is made of schools duriug the year, it is presumed none were kept. Although the town had recently voted not to build a school-house, yet, probably in consequence of the report of the committee .above mentioned, the vote was reconsidered, and tlie town now "voted to build a new School house aud to set it on ye Training Field, adjoyning ye road." It was to be twenty feet long, sixteen feet wide, and seven feet between joints. It was located near where the barn of Albert W. Gaskill now stands, and its cost was to be defrayed out of the money received for the sale of land in reducing the width of the roads from ten to four rods in width. The old school-house was sold to Samuel Thayer for fourteen pounds. 1748. Josiah Marshall, A. M., was duly installed in the new school-house, ;.t TOWN OF MENDON. Lut at what salary the record is silent. The school was to be kept four months. 1749. The town voted the grammar school should 7iot bo kept iu the school- house, and no reasons are given for this novel vote. 1750. The town voted to have a grammar schoolmaster, but voted, " by the whole town save one," they would not have Mr. Foster. They then voted to have Mr. Dorr's son Joseph and Capt. Eleazer Tafl's son Moses "to Keep School by Spells as they can agree." The second school-house was built near the East Precinct (Milford) meeting- house "for the use of the town." Neither its size or its exact location can now be ascertained. Its cost was £212 lis. 1751. Voted that Mr. Dorr's son Joseph shall be the town's schoolmaster as soon as he can be had, and, when he cannot be had, Mr. Tafl's son Moses to be the schoolmaster. These two teachers were both recent graduates from Harvard College. 1756. There were but two school-houses in the town, and the attempt to build another was defeated. It will be remembered that this was in the time of the French war, when the expenses of the town would be materiall}' increased, and this, quite likely, was the reason of the adverse vote. 1757. Voted that the "affiiir of the Schoolmaster be left in the hands of the Selectmen." 1759. This year the town was divided into school districts, but, of their number, size and boundaries, we have no record. 1760. This year it was voted that each of the eleven school districts should draw just the amount of mone}' they paid to the amount raised for the support of schools. 17C3. Some of the districts, not having drawn out all their portion of the school money, asked the town to allow them interest on the same, but the town held that all the money should have been expended during the year in which it was raised and appropriated. 1765. Although there were eleven school districts in town, and but two school-houses, the town again voted they would build no more. 1771. Voted to appropriate sixty pounds lawful money for schools, with the interest from the school notes. These notes were given for land set apart for the schools which had been sold. From this time, the care of the ordinary schools was conlidod to the care of the several districts. 1786. It was voted that the town " provide a Grammar School so far as to clear the town from any fine." 1780. Voted to sell the old school-house which stands on the training-field "for the most it will fetch." 1796. The first general school committee chosen. 1804. Of the sum of $400 raised for schooling, $33.33 M'as reserved, and HIGH SCHOOL. 55 to be divided amoug such districts as "the Selectmen shall think just," the remaining portion to be equally divided among the scholars. 1811. Blackstone factory village made a school district. 1824. Raised $800 for schooling, to be divided among fourteen school districts. 1832. The school committee were to have $10 each for their services. 1834. There were seventeen school districts, and the town raised $1,200 for the support of schools. 1838. The first notice of a high school is found this year, as a committee was chosen to consider the subject " of establishing a school for the benefit of the whole town." 1845. By the division of the (own and the incorporation of Blackstone, Mendon was left with seven school districts. Since 1827, the schools have been under the supervision of the school com- mittee chosen by the town, and, during this period, the character of the schools has been much improved. New and improved text-books have been intro- duced, and persons of more ample qualifications have been engaged as teachers. The high school, to which scholars from all parts of the town having the requisite qualifications are admitted, was organized in 1868, and has been contiinicd to this time. The committees, in the main, have succeeded in pro- curing the services of able and competent teachers. Two of its alumni have graduated from colleges. In the centre school, the scholars are graded, being distributed by the com- mittee among the high, grammar and primary schools. By chapter 110 of the acts of 1869, the school districts were abolished. By the same act, the town was to take possession of the school-houses and appraise them. Of this appraisal, a tax was to be laid, and the amount remitted to the tax-payers, "provided the appraised value shall not exceed the actual cf)st of the school-houses." Although the people of Mendon at the time were quite generally opposed to the abolition of the districts, the feeling is now quite unanimous in the wisdom of the act. During the school-year for 1878-9, the whole number of scholars that attended was 270, distributed among eight schools ; the average attendance was 89.2 per cent.; the amount paid teachers was $1,654.50; paid for fuel and care of fires, $93.20 ; school apparatus, $4; the pay of the teacher of the high school was $(')5 per month ; the wages of the other teachers varied from $20 to $34 per month; salary of superintendent, $75. 56 TOWN OF MENDON. CHAPTEIl III. ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY — MINISTERS AND MEETIXG-UOUSES — THE MENDON ASSOCIATION' LATER CIIURCIIKS AGUICULTUKE POLITICAL DOINGS INDUSTRIES — COLLEGE GRADUATES — STATISTICS. As the gr.'uit to ihc Braiiitree petitioners for a new plantation made it requisite that there should be an "able minister with them," it will bo seen that the ecclesiastical history of the town began with its first settlement. It has always been supposed, until reconlly, that .Tosepb Emerson was the first minister of Mendon, as the town records are silent as regards a minister, save the single mention that land was granted to "the minister." This has been interpreted to mean "the minister" whenever one should be called; but, among the State archives, a petition from the inhabitants of Mendon has beea found, wherein it is averred that, if their pra^-er should be refused, they should lose "the valuable services of their able and faithful minister, Mr. John Rayner." This evidence established the fact that Joseph Emerson, who was not settled until 1GG9, was not the first minister. Mr. Eaj'ncr removed from Mendon iu 1G68, and was soon afterwards settled at Dover, N. II., succeeding his father, John Rayner, in the ministry there, who died April 3, 1G69. Mr. Rayner, the son, died Dec. 21, 1676, and was probably unmarried, as his mother, Frances Rayner, was administratrix of his estate. April 21, 16G8. "It was ordered to give Mr. Benjamin Allot a Call with his (father's leave, and a letter was sent to that effect." As Benjamin did not come, he probably did not receive the apostolic benediction to that effect. In 16G8, it was agreed to build a meeting-house twenty-two feet square, but it was not finished until the following year. Dec. 1, 1669, Rev. Joseph Emerson (son-in-law of Peter Bulkeley of Con- cord), was installed as minister, his futher-in-law maUingthe contract with the town. Part of his pay was to be taken '"at some shop in Boston," and he was to have two pounds of butter for every cow. Mr. Emerson continued in the ministry until the breaking out of King Philip's war, when ho retired to Concord, and as he died a few years afterward, it is believed he did not again enter the ministr}'. Upon the return of (ho inhabitants after the war, in 1680, the town took early measures for the rebuilding of the mueting-housc and parsonage, which liail been destroyed in the general conflagration by the Indians. The new meeting-house was to be 26 by 24 feet and 14 feet between joints. The parsonage was to be 26 by 18 feet, witii "a leantowe," 12 feet wide, at one end of (ho house. Oct. 4, 1680, Rev. Grindal Rawson, son of the colonial secretary, Edw.-ird llawson, was called to the ministry here, but was not permanently settled until MEETIXG-IIOUSES. 57 April 7, 1684. He was a classmate in college with Cotton M.ithor. He was installed in the parsonage with his family (he having married a daughter of Rev. John Wilson of IMedfiekl), by 1682, as we find, in that year, a committee of three were chosen " to Kectifie Mr. Rawson's Chimneyes." Mr. Rawson's salary was to be £55 a year, with one cord of wood for every fortj'-acre lot, and the train band were to cut it up at his door. Persons living at a distance from the meeting had liberty "to build a place for their Relief upon the Sabbath day between the Meeting-House and the Town Pound." This place of relief was what, in after times, became known as the noon house. The primitive meeting-house had none of the modern improvements for warming, and a noon house, with a hole in the roof and .an ample hearth beneath for charcoal, afforded a comfortable retreat during the recess at noon. In a few years the meeting-house was found to be too small and it was voted to "Inlarge it ten feet up street and ten feet down street." In 1710, Mr. Rawson and Mr. Jethro CoiBn had liberty to build pews in the meeting-house. In 1712, Mr. Rawson's salary had been raised to £66 yearly. Mr. Rawson died Feb. 6, 1715, after a ministry of thirty-five years, and was buried in the westerly part of the ancient grave-yard in this town, where a monument was afterward raised to his memory by the town. In 1713, Mr. Rawson being in feeble health, Mr. Joseph Adams was hired to >-upply the pulpit a portion of the year. Dec. 20, 1715. The town and the church agreed to the settlement of Rev. Joseph Dorr as their minister, and to give him £160, to be paid in labor and materials towards building him a house and £75 as his yearly salary. Feb. 24, 1716. Mr. Dorr accepted the above terms and became the minister of the town. He was the youngest son but one of Rev. Edward and Elizabeth Dorr, and was born in Roxbury in 1689 or 1690. He graduated at Harvard College in 1711 and married Mar^-, daughter of Rev. Grindal Rawson, his predecessor in the ministry, April 9, 1724. He continued in the discharge of his ministerial duties here until his death, March 9, 1768. Mr. Dorr was the father of the Mendon Association of Ministers, it being organized at his house, and of it he was a long time moderator. As cai-l}' as 1727, the subject of l)uilding a new meeting-house began to be agitated ; but it was not erected until after a long controversy as to the most eliLnblo site for its location, and after it had been referred to a committee from neii/hboring towns. Finally, in 1730, the frame of the house was raised; tiie town, among other articles for refreshment, providing for the occasion "a barrel ofRhum." May 18, 1731. The opposition to the site of the meeting-house was not yet entirely placated, as the following vole will show. The town being met it was 58 TOWN OF MENDON. put to vote "to see if they could find out who hath, by cutting, damnified the meeting-house," and it " passed iu the negative." By this it seems the town was willing to "bury the hatchet." In 1733, Mr. Dorr had £25 added to his salary. In 1734, the town voted to build no pews in the meeting-house, or allow others to do so. Seats, instead of pews, had been constructed, and a com- mittee assigned the seats, placing the women on one side and the men on the other. 1736. Although the meeting-house had been some time occupied, it was not yet finished, as we find £100 was raised to pay John Lyon when be "hath fin- ished the meeting-house." In 1741, quite a disturl)ance in the church took place, Mr. Dorr being accused of mal-administration, but in what manner does not appear. Thomas Teunc}^ and others prayed the General Court "to set them off from Mendon on account of a controversy with Mr. Dorr." Upon the question of referring the petition to the next General Court there was a dead-lock l)etweeu the Council and House of Representatives, and here the controversy ended. This year the territory east of Mill River and the families living between Mill River and the eight-rod road were made a precinct. The precinct was soon organized and the Rev. Amariah Frost of Framingham was ordained Dec. 21, 1743. Mr. Frost remained the minister until the precinct was made a town and named Milford. Nov. 8, 1766. The south part of the first precinct was made a precinct, by the General Court, and called the south precinct, since made the town of Blackstone. The Rev. Mr. Balch was settled over it Sept. 14, 1768, and remained its minister until March 27, 1773. Difficulties soon arose between Mr. Balch and the people, and there was continual bickering during his stay. According to a pamphlet printed in Boston, in 1773, Mr. Bakh left the precinct in the night. The pamphlet says Mr. Balch came there very poor, so that tiie people had to furnish him with a suit of clothes for his ordination. After the death of Mr. Dorr, May 9, 1768, there was occasional jjreaching during the remainder of the year. Mr. Balch last before mentioned, a Mr. Messinger, a Mr. Penniman, and perhaps others, rendered occasional service. Rev. Joseph ^Yillard was installed over the first precinct, April 19, 1769, and dismissed Dec. 4, 1782. During the latter part of his ministry, there was a great lack of harmony between him and the people, arising, principally, from the tardiness with which his salary w.as collected and paid, finally culminat- ing in a suit at law brought by Mr. Willard to enforce its payment. Rev. Caleb Alexander succeeded Mr. Willard as the minister of the First Parish, and was installed April 12, 1786, and dismissed Dec. 7, 1802. He removed to western New York, and died at Onondaga, April 12, 182S, aged seventy- two. He was born in Northfield, July 22, 1755, and graduated from Yale SUCCESSIVE PASTORS. 59 College, iu 1777. Mr. Alexander was an able teacher and writer. lie was greatly instrumental iu founding Hamilton College and Auburn Theological Seminary. Rev. Preserved Smith was installed Oct. 2, 1805, over the tirst and third parishes, preaching alternately at the meeting-houses iu each parish until Oct. 10, 1812, when he was dismissed upon his own request. In Novem- ber, 1787, he was settled at Rowe and continued his ministry there uitil May, 1804, when he came to Mendon. Iu 1812, the people of Rowe gave him a unanimous call to return to that town, and with which he complied. He con- tinued to preach there for twenty years, having completed a ministry of forty- five years. In 1832, he went to reside with his son. Rev. Preserved Smith, at Warwick, until his death, Aug. 15, 1834. He graduated at Brown Uni- versity in 1786. It is supposed the pulpit was supplied for the next two years, as we find there was a committee, in 1812 aud 1813, chosen for that purpose. June 16. 1814. The first parish gave a call to Rev. Luther Bailey, with a salary of $450. Mr. Bailey declined the call on account of the sum offered as his salary, but would accede to their request for $550. Nov. 28, 1814. Gave a call to the Rev. Simeou Doggett at a salary of $350. Dtc. 17, 1814, Mr. Doggett accepted the call and the parish took measures for his ordination. Mr. Doggett was ordained Jan. 17, 1815, and dismissed Dec. 4, 1830. Mr. Doggett graduated at Brown University in 1788, and was a tutor in the University from 1791 to 1796. He was a native of Middleborough, and removed to Rayuham at the close of his ministry iu Men- don. Many young men fitted for college under his tuition while living iu Mendon. Rev. Adiu Ballou commenced his ministry iu February, 1831, being installed May 3, 1832. Rev. Bernard "Whitman preached the ordination sermon. Mr. Ballou closed his ministry April 1, 1842. While residing here he published an address on the subject of American Slavery, which was republished in England. Rev. Linus B. Shaw commenced his ministry in April, 1842, and closed it May 1, 1844. There was no formal installation. Rev. George M. Rice was engaged to supply the pulpit, and commenced his labors April 20, 1845, and remained until July 1, 1847. Rev. George G. Channing, brother of Ihe late William Ellery Channing, began a supply in October, 1847, and con- tiuued his sevices until Dec. 1, 1849. Rev. William H. Kinsley was installed in June, 1850, Rev. E. S. Gannett, D. D., preaching the installation sermon. He remained in the discharge of his parochial duties until his death, Sept. 7, 1851. Rev. Robert Hassall succeeded ^Ir. Kinsley, aud his ministry coutiuued from April 1, 1852, to the second Sunday in Jauuiuy, 1856. He was soon after settled at Haverhill. Rev. Stillman Barber commenced his ministerial labors, May 18, 1856, and closed them the second Sunday iu April, 1860. Rev. Wil- liam Tate Phelau was ordained in ]\Iay, 18li3, and was dismissed, at his request, April 27, 1866. Rev. Richard Coleman began to preach July 1, 1866, and con- 60 TOWN OF MENDON. tiiiue>.l his services until Febnisir}', 18(58. Rev. David Philip Liinlslcy com- racuced preai'hing Jan. 1, 18G8, and concluded his services March 31, 1871. Rev. George F. Clark, lato minister at Castine, Me., began an eugageiuent in June, 1871, and still continues to supply the pulpit. The "Mendon Association," so called, was an association of Congregational minislers. It was organized at the house of Rev. Mr. Dorr, "Nov. y" 8th. 17.51." There were present four persons, viz. : — Mr. Dorr, who was chosen moderator, and Rev. Nathan Webb of Uxbridge, scribe. The two other mem- bers were. Rev. Amariah Frost of the cast precinct in Milford, and the Rev. Flis'.ia Fish of Upton. At this meeting David Thurston was licensed to preach, and was ordained over the church at AVest Medway, June 23, 1752. He was a graduate from Princeton College, N. J., in 1751. This association still continues to hold meetings. Having, in the preceding pages, given an account of the churches down to 1730, a small s|)ace will sufEce to complete the record. The present Unitarian Church was built, in 1820, by voluntary contributions, for th(! u>e of the first parish. The first Friends' meeting-house was built in 172!), iuul stood a short distance below the shop occupied by Timothy Ellis. The meetings in this house were discontinued by Smithtield mtujthly meeting, third month, 1841, and the house sold to Col. Israel Plummer, in 1850, and converted into a depot at the Northbridge Quarries, on the Providence and Worcester Rail- road. The second Friends' meeting-house was built at South Mendon (now Black- stone), in 1812. Not long before the incorporation of Blackstone, churches were built at Millville, Blackstone and Watcrford, villages in that town. In 1828, the "North Congregational Church" was organized, and in 1830 built a church ; but, after a few years of struggle, the organization was aban- doned and the meeting-house sold to the Methodist Society, which had lately been gathered, fov $650. During the past year, Rev. Phineas C. Sloper of Natick has oiEciatcd as pastor of this society. The Blackstone Caual was begun in 1824, and the first boat, the "Lady Carrington," started July 1, 1823. The cost of the canal was $700,000, and proved a losing investment for its stockholders. It, however, was of benefit to the public, as it increased the water-power, by its dams and reservoirs, and thus aided largely in the multiplication of factories. The Blackstone cotton- mill was built iu 1808, and there were smaller mills at Millville, and at Kelley's and Paine & Ray's on Mill River. Soon after this, W. & D. D. Farnum erected a large woolen-mill at Waterford, and additional machinery was operated at Millville and at Paine & Ray's. In 1847, the Worcester and Providence Railroad superseded the canal, and not long afterward the canal corporation obtained liberty to surrender its LOCAL INDUSTRIES. 61 charter. Blackstonc was an integral portion of Mendon at this time, and contained 3,524 inhabitants. In 1870, the two towns contained 6,591, of which Mendon fnrnisliod 1,175, and Bhickstone, 5,421. In Mendon, witli its present bouudai-ies, there is one box-factory, two shoddy- mills, and two boot manufactories. There are five saw and one shingle mill, one wheelwright's and three blacksmith's shops. There are two taverns, one of which, kept by David Adams, is a true temijerauce house. Two stores, in one of which the post-office is kept. For farming purposes there is much excellent laud in Mendon. With a general inclination to the south, except in the low lands, it is not subject to early frosts. Its principal productions are hay, potatoes, corn, rye, apples and cranberries. Many fruit-trees have been set out within a few years, and many patches of meadow reclaimed for the cultivation of cranberries. Large quantities of milk are sold from this town, principally at Milford. Mendon has always been true to the Union. In the days of the Revolution, while she was passing patriotic resolutions in town meeting, she was, at the same time, passing patriotic men to the front. So in the Rebellion of 18G1, almost without exception, the citizens of Mendon stood shoulder to shoulder for its overthrow. From the days of Jefferson, until a recent period, Mendon had always been Democratic. The anti-slavery discussion, the repeal of the Missouri compro- mise, and the attempt to make Kansas a slave-holding State, opened the eyes of many, and the recent attempt to destroy the Union completed the disin- tegration of that party. Since 1861, IMendon has been Republican, aud, always, whenever a full vote is called out, by a decided and satisfactory m;ijority. In the election of town officers partisan predilections have been very generally disregarded. As an evidence of its sanitary condition and the law-abiding disposition of its inhabitants, it is sufficient to say that but one physician aud one lawyer find a home within its limits. The principal portion of the industry of the town is expended in the culti- vation of the soil. With the adoption of the improved implements of agri- culture and a more intelligent application of fertilizers, whether derived from the compost-heap or the laboratory', the general aspect of the farming lands shows a decided improvement over the exhibit of thirty-five or fort}' years ago. If he who makes two spears of grass grow where one grew before is a public benefactor, the farmers of Mendon may justly claim an honorable distinction in that regard. Owing to the general depression of business at this time (April, 1879), but one of the boot-shops is in operation, turning out but forty or fif(y cases weeklj'. The home industries, besides the ordinary care of the household, are mainly devoted to the sewing of boaucts and hats for the straw mauufactories in the nciffhborinnr towns. G2 TOWN OF AIENDON. The fallowing college graduates are worthy of prominent mention : — Grind.il Rawson, (Harvard,) 1728 Moses Taft, 1751 Joseph Dorr, 1752 Ezra Thayer, " 1754 Alexander Scamraell, 17G9 Amariah Frost, " 1770 William Jcnnison, 1774 Samuel Jennison, 1774 John Eugene Tyler, 1786 Daniel Peters, 1793 Samuel Dexter, 1801 Warren Rawson, 1802 Seth Chapin, 1808 Peter Wheelock, 1811 Samuel S. Adams, 1812 Preserved Smith, 1812 Samuel Allen, 1814 George Taft, (Harvard,) 1815 William Soden Hastings, " 1817 John Locke Doggett, " 1821 George R. Russell, " 1821 Charles C. P. Hastings, " 1825 Moses D. Southwick, " 1828 Theophilus P. Doggett, '• 1829 Nathan George, •• 1830 Edward Freeman, " 1833 Eli Thayer, " 1845 George Capron, " 1847 Enos N. Taft, (Yale.) 1850 Samuel P. Bates, (Boston Univ.,) 1851 Hamilton B. Staples, " 1851 Julius A. George, Lawrence Scientific School, . . (Harvard,) 1859-60 These annals are now brought to a close by an exhibit of the financial stand- ing of the town at the close of the two hundred and eleventh year of its muni- cipal life, March 3, 1879. Summary of expenditures during the year. Damage and costs (defect in the highway), §350 00 Incidental expenses, . 102 44 Repairs of school-houses and supplies, ...... 20 71 Printing, 127 00 Town officers' services, 577 01 State aid to pensioners, 250 50 " for other soldiers, 226 65 School apparatus, 4 00 Support of schools, 1,747 70 Fuel for town hall, .......... 41 75 Roads and bridges, . . . . . . . . . . 1,018 07 Support of poor, 1,770 00 86,235 83 The liabilities of the town are as follows, viz. : — Due town officers (estimated), $212 50 Expended on roads and unpaid (estimated) 387 60 Amount of town bonds outstanding, 12,698 00 " " notes " • . 3,876 19 $17,174 29 STATISTICS. G3 Available assets. Taxes uncollected, $1,521 90 Cash in treasurer's hands, ...... 79 25 Due from State, (State aid disbursed, pensioners,) . . 2G4 00 " " ( " " other soldiers,") . 187 79 $2,0.52 94 Leaving the present indebtedness of the town, .... $15,121 35 Town officers for 1879. — Town clerk, David Adams ; selectmen, Alexander H. Allen, Albert W. Gaskill and Horace C. Adams ; treasurer, John G. Met- calf; assessors, A. H. Allen, M. C. Gaskill and Jas. J. Nutter; constable, Andrew W. Jndson ; superintendent of schools, George F. Clark. Appropriations for 1879. Support of schools, $1,200 00 Repair of roads, 900 00 Support of poor, 1,500 00 Repair of school houses, . 450 00 Interest on public debt, 1,100 00 Principal of " 1,000 00 Incidental expenses, 300 00 $6,450 00 U TOWN OF MILFORD. M I LF O li D. BY REV. ADIN F.AI.LOU. CHAPTEU I. POSITION AND EXTENT — EARLY CONNECTION — INCORPORATION — TOPOGRAPHI- CAL FEATURES — GEOLOGY AND PRODUCTIONS — GROWTH AND INDUSTRIES — BOOT AND SHOE BUSINESS — RELIGIOUS MOVEJIENTS — ORTHODOX CHURCH — UNIVERSALIST, METHODIST, BAPTIST, EPISCOPALIAN, CATHOLIC, UNITARIAN, SPIRITUALISTS. MiLFORD is a south-easterly border town of the couuty, skirting on Middle- sex and Norfolk near their junction in that quarter. It is bounded north by riopkiuton, east by Holiiston, Medway and Bellingham, south-westerly by Mendon, and westerly by Upton. It contains 12,170 acres of land, or nineteen square miles and ten acres. Of this area about two hundred and eighty-one acres are covered with water in spring and wet seasons, and over three hundred more are occupied by roads and commons. Its latitude is about 42° 08' N., and its longitude 71° 09' W. from Greenwich. Its centre is eighteen miles south-east from "Worcester, thirty south-westerly from Boston, and twenty-five north by west from Providence, R. I. Its mean altitude above tide-water is a little less than four hundred and seventy-three feet, its lowest level being three hundred and eight feet, and its highest six hundred and thirty-seven feet nine inches. Its lenglh from north to south is about six miles, and its breadth very irregular, averaging not more than three and one-sixth miles. In aboriginal times this tract of territory belonged to an easterly sub-tribe or clau of the Nipniuck Indians. Five-sixths of it were included in the original purchase from those Indians of eight miles square for Quinshipaug Plantation, alias Mendon, April 22, IG62. The other sixth was bought of a family belong- ing to the same clan, by a Mendon committee, Feb. 19, 1G91. This additional tract has always been called "The North Purchase." The present territorial domain of Milford was a part of Mendon until April 11, 1780, when it was incorporated as a town. Its south-westerly corner began to be settled slightly between 1670 and 1695. The whole tract, after purchase from the Indians, EARLY CONDITION. 65 beloiigctl to (be proprietors of Mciidon, and \v;is laid out i)y them from time to time ill lots and parcels to suit incoming settlers. These grew more iind more numerous from 1700 and downward. lu 1741 they became enterprising arid ambitious enough to obtain an act of incorporation setting them oil as a separate precinct, sometimes designated as "the second," but more commonly as "the Easterly Precinct of jMcudon." This act bears date Dec. 23, 1T41, and required, as one of its iiidispcnsal)le conditions, that a mecting-honso bo built and an orthodox minister be settled within two years from the date thereof. A church of twcnty-i-ix male members, calling itself "The Second Church of Christ in jMendon," had already been organized, April 15, 1741, prelimiuaiy to anticipated precinct incorporation. Immediately after incor- poration the precinct was organized, and set about the erection of a meeting- house. The exterior of tliat humble edifice, 40 by 35 feet in dimensions, fashioned in the usual style of those days, was completed, and Rev. Amariah Frost ordained as their first minister, Dec. 21, 1743 — just two days before their incorporation would, in default, have been forfeited. The incorporation of this precinct into a town, April 11, 1780, was preceded by a long, intermittent struggle between the "Mill River people," then so termed, and the other inhabitants of the mother town, which, however, was amicablj' terminated by a mutual agreement between the parties. May 3, 1779, in the fourth year of the Revolutionary war. The act of iucorporalion followed without further opposition, and the town was formally organized May 1, 1780. Its population w;:s then seven hundred and sixty souls. No certain data give the number of families, dwellings or legal voters. It may be reasonably esti- mated that there wore one hundred and fifty families, about the same number of voters, and one hundred and twenty dwelling-houses, such as they were. These were scattered here and there on about fifty rough and crooUcd roads, bridle-paths, &e. The only public edifice in town was the aforesaid precinct meeting-huusc. Not a single school-house had then been erected; private dwellings or tenement-rooms of inferior convenience being then the only temples of learning. There was one clergyman. Rev. Mr. Frost; one physi- cian, the first Dr. Scammell, though the senior Dr. Corbctt dwelt near by in the edge of Bellingham ; no lawyer, nor but one justice of the peace, Edward Rawson, and he not till 1781 ; one licensed iunholJcr, at what was later known as the Godfrey stand, Jonathan Jones; one or two huckster stores in tho Centre, and another at South Milford, licensed to retail spirituous liquors; here and there a mechanical craftsman of humble pretensions — a blacksmith, cai[)entcr, tanner, shoemaker, weaver, tailor, clothier, &c. ; and the other inhabitants subsisting as best they could on tho productions of commou husbandry. Such was Milford at its incorporation, in the afternoon of the Revolutionary struggle, yet plucky, enterprising and hopeful in its "da}' of small things," nothing abashed when some of its smarter neighl)ors jocosely named it "Broomshire." Severe were some of its trials that immediately VOL. U.—O GG TOWN OF MILFORD. ensuctl, but, through persistent toil and cnclurauce, it graduall}- rose to distinc- tion, and won for itself an honorable fame. The topography of the town may now be briefly delineated. Although it exhibits little of the grand and picturesque in comparison with many localities of our couuhy, yet it has features of variegation, beauty and utility worthy of respectful appreciation. If it has some rock}', rough and unattractive por- tions, it has highlands, dales, plains, rivers and brooks, alike admirable and useful. It is intersected by two small rivers, both of which rise on its northern frontier and run its whole length almost parallel to each other. The most easterly of these is the Charles, which rises in a large highland swamp near Hopkinton line. It is there a mere brook, four hundred and thirty-two feet above tide-water at Boston. Thence, running a little south-easterly, it descends rapidly to a mill privilege in a locality called "Wildcat," where it receives "Deer Brook," from Hopkinton. Thence, running in a general southerly direction, it passes through Cedar Swamp Pond, over "the falls" in eastern Jlilford Centre, down the valley to Bellingham factory privilege, receiving various little tributaries along its course, and so passing onward to Boston. It leaves town at our lowest level above the sea, three hundred and eight feet, and affords within our limits only two or three mill-sites. The other and more westerly river issues from what is now known as North Pond, but by the Indians was called Maspeuock Pond. Only the extreme southerly end of this pond belongs to Milford — the main body of it to Hopkinton. This stream has alwa3's been called i\Iill River by the whites. At the point of its issue it is 452 feet 9 inches above tide-water. It runs in a general southerly direction, forms a pait of the boundary between Milford and Upton, fdls 13G feet inches before it leaves town, and affords no less than eleven mill-sites, six of which are occupied. It leaves town at a level of .31G feet above tide- water, i. e., 8 feet .3 inches above the Charles at its exit. Thence its course is southward into the Blackstone at Woonsocket, Tl. I. Charles and Mill rivers divide the town into three considerable sections. The most westei-ly of these abuts northerly on Upton, and skirts Mendon on the west. It lies on the eastern declivity and along the l)ase of Neck Ilill, extending some four miles southwardly, with an average width of perhaps one hundred and fifty rods. A large part of it is woodland, swamp, rocky pasture or otherwise non-arable. A minor portion is good farm land, and occupied by thrifty cultivators. Some of these have handsome, elevated and pleasantly situated estates. The range of highlands known as North Hill and Neck Ilil! presents some wild and romantic scenery, and affords, at several points, fine perspective fields in the distance to the c^'C of the curious visitor. The altitude on North Hill is 572 feet above sea level, and on Neck Hill, where Milford Main Street crosses Mendon line, it is 470 feet. The section between Mill and Charles rivers is much the most important of the three, being six miles in length from north to south, that is, from Ilopkin- NATURAL FEATURES. 67 ton to jMendon, and from one to two miles in average breadth oast and west. It not only affords desirable surface and soil for numerous valuable farms, country seats, village sites and most of the populous town centre, but very commanding and delightful pro-^pects of the ncighl)oring regions in all direc- tions. This is especially true of its highland eminences. Tumiel Ilill, at Ilopkinton line, near Haven Street, is GIG feet above tide-water, and gives the casual beholder who strays thither a pleasing panoramic view toward the south. Silver Hill, at Aaron Claflin's counti'y seat, presents a still more magnificent and beautiful expanse of near and distant landscape. The altitude here is 5SG feet 9 inches above the ocean level. But this is exceeded by the loftier eminences of old Magomiscock Hill, so named by the Indians on account, probably, of the grand and far-reaching prospect it afforded them of their Nipmuck domain. Standing near whore Rucl Cloavcland and his sister Mchetabel now dwell, their keen eyes, in a clear day, could sweep the horizon from the Blue Hills of ]\Iilton round the highlands towards the AVanipanoags, the Xarragansetts and the Mohegaus, to their own imperial Wachusctt, and even to the distant iMonadnock. Their standpoint, as thus contemplated, is 637 feet and 9 inches above the sea-level. This Magomiscock Hill, or rather range of highlands, affords many commanding and charming views of the surrounding country. It is of gentle ascent on all sides, and, therefore, some- what deceitful as to its actual height. It extends in a slightly south-easterly direction from the vicinity of Silver Hill, some two miles, till it subsides into the plains of South Milford. Its western slope descends to Mill River, along whose intervale the pleasant village of Ilopedale is extending its bright array of machine-shops and homes. Toward the east it descends in gentle slopes, replete with farms, rural abodes, and the cheerful evidences ui' industrial improvement. The easterly section is bounded westerly by Charles River, and on other sides b}' Ilopkinton, Ilolliston, Medway and Bellingham. Its most con- spicuous feature is Bear Hill, long a famous landmark, and whose highest peak is found to have an altitude of 532 feet above tide-water. lis only very steep acclivity is on its south-westerly side, where it is closely adjacent to the river, not far south-east of the railroad depots. Its base must have a circumference of over two miles. It has several eminences and depressions, and a consider- able portion of it is covered with forest of older or 3'ounger growth, though farms and habitations encroach upon it, and it is rendered somewhat accessible by decent roads over and around it. Another noticeable feature of this section, less elevated, is presented b}' the "'Rock}' Woods" in its northerly portion. These woods are fitly named, for they are rocky indeed. "The North Cedar Swamp," anciently so called, was once famous, but has bceu thoroughly despoiled of its primeval cedars. Perhaps this swamp may be properly considered as belonging to this section. "The Great Jleadow," too, lying north-east of Bear Hill, was no less famous with the early settlers of Mendou 68 TOWN OF MILFORD. aud Shcrl)orn, who both coveted its htiy, and quarrelled for a time about tiioir lival claims. It long ago ceased to be deemed of extraordinary value. The plain lands north of Bear Hill arc valuable, and have become thickly settled. There is a range of good farms all along the eastern frontier of this .section, from Braggviile in the north to Bcllingham in the south. And it has attained to the honor of having two very popular cemeteries located wilhin its limits, near the cedar swamp ; viz., the "Pine Grove Cemetery" and the " Catholic Cemetery." The geological rock and composilion of soil in Milford, in common with the general surrounding region, arc predominantly gueissic, though the northern part of it, and especially the north-easterly part, affords some excellent granite, which is extensively quarried. There is a considerable breadth of peculiar gneiss rock crossing the town somewhat diagonally from the centre of North Purchase, south-westerly into ilcndou. It seems to be largel^^ comi)o.sed of quartz, with little mica and hornblende, and scarcely an}' feldspar. It is very hard and brittle. Much of it is of a reddish-yellow hue, as if oxidated by u slight infusion of iron, though portions of it arc dark gray and blackish. It has an eccentric and obstinate fracture, and crumbles into an uncouth gravel. In some places below the surface it is found in layers of from a few inches to a foot in thickness, but in general appears in rather unshapelj' blocks. It is not a desirable kind of stone, nor, when disintegrated, a good ingredient of the soil, yielding no potassa, and giving a certain sp;)nginess to the loam. Neither does it tread or wear well on roads. But the common gray gneiss and its detritus generally neutralize it to a considerable extent. The result is a decent soil throughout the town, quite strong and fertile in spots, but rather deficient generally in potassa, alumina and the phosphates. These are desirable feitil- izers, and arc used with good effect. For roads the town has a good crusher of suitable stone, and macadamizes liberally. Of the flora and fauna of the town it is hardly necessary to speak, as our vegetable and animal productions, native and exotic, are the same with those of the immediate surrounding country. The present forest growth is compara- tively young. The ancient cedars are gone, probably never to be renewed. The chestnuts and the oaks arc diminutive in size compared with their sturdy anccstfirs. The railroads have made chestnut timber now the most valuaijle. This was the predominant timber of our aboriginal forests, and still is so. Beasts, birds, reptiles and fish, with a few cxccplions, remain in kind, l)nt not in abun- dance. Kaltlcsnakcs, once fearfidly numerous, have been neai'ly exterminated. Ferocious beasts have ceased out of the land. Wild game is scarce, and useful fish are kept down to a minimum. Milford can boast of but little natural wealth. It has no mines of the precious, or, indeed, any other metals ; no slato or limestone ; no marl ; only one small bed of clay, and a few deposits of good peat. Its quarries of granite already opened, and promising to be opened on a larger scale, make the chief item in its natural inventory. Its water-power, GROWING INDUSTRIES. 69 woodlands niid cultivablo soil fill up Ihc account. Those, (iiougli not large, liavc a respectable value. The town must depend mainly on mannfacfuring, mechanical .•md mercantile thrift. In these it jiresents a creditable exhibition. The growth of Milford and its productive industries was ratlicr slow till 1845, when the branch railroad to South Framingham was auspiciously in progress. I>efore that period, several important dovelapmcnts of prosperity had succes- sively taken place, less marked but full of promise. In 1780, its population was 7C0 ; in 1790. it was 839 ; in 1800, 907 ; in 1810, 973 ; in 1820, 1,1G0; in '30, 1.3G0; in MO, 1,773; in '50, 4,810; in '55, 7,489; in 'GO, 9,132; in 'G5, 9,10S ; in "70, 9,890, and '75, 9,818. During this period the number of %mi- lies ro!:^e from 150 to 2,103; the nnrabcr of dwellings from 120 to 1,549; the niunbor of Icgil voters from 150 or loss to 2,118, and the total valuation of estates from a proportionately small sum to over $5,000,000. The industrial productions of these ninety-five j^cars advanced in the same ratio. At the outset they consisted chiefly of agricultural products — of what was raised on jicrhaps one hundred and twenty farms, and by collateral domestic thrift. The amount of these must be guessed, rather than estimated. But the inhabi- tants liud always a predisposition and genius for mechanical and manufacturing jiursiiits. These steadily gained ground, as did those of trade, over agricultural interests, though it took them a quarter of a century or more after the town was incorporated to obtain the ascendancy. Boot and shoe making got started as early as 1795, but on a very small scale. The pioneers commenced in petty apartments of ordinary dwclling-bonscs or crude outbuildings. Thej^ bought a few dollars' worth of upper and solo leather, made up a dozen pairs of l)oots or shoes, and then started otT with them on foot to find purchasers. If suc- cessful, they increased their stock, worked it up, took it otT in a horse- wagon to market into the neighboring towns, often goiug as far as Boston and Providence. Next the tanning and dressing of leather became profitable, as well as convenient. In the course of ten or fifteen years, little fourteen by sixteen one-story shops sprung up about town, which the bosses crowded almost to suflfocalion with journeymen and apprentices. Thus the boot, shoo and leather business, before 1825, distanced all other kinds of iudustiial pro- duction. But even at that date, the largest l)oot manufactory in town was a two-story building, not more than thirty-two liy twenty feet in size. In 1837, we had the first authentic return of Milford industries, by order of General Court, and its showing was not very formidable. The following is its abridged substance in part: — one cotton-mill, 1,200 spindles, consumed 13,000 pounds cotton, turned out 80,000 yards, valued at $5,000, employed 22 hands ; capital invested, $15,000. Boots manufactured, 128,000 pairs, valued at $212,200; employed 342 hands. Hides curried, 5,000; value of leather, $12,000; hands, 5; capital, $5,000. The other articles specified are sheep and their wool, chairs and cabinet-ware, tin-ware, straw bonnets, varnisli, clothing, shoe-pegs, wagon- 70 TOWX OF Tkm.FOKD. irons and whips. All these minor arlicles netted only $28,516. This gives ns the preponderance of the boot and leather industry' in 1837. The printed return of 1845 reports 243,890 piiirs of boots manufactured, valued at $373,835, the work of 482 males and 220 females ; total of employes, 702. The leather curried was valued at §30,000. In this return cotton manufacture, whips, &c., drop out, and several new articles are reported, few of which were of much account. Among them were hatting, saddle and harness making, soap manufacture, stone quarrying, lumber dressing, mechanics' tools, firewood prepared, boot-boxes made, sash and blind business, wheelwrighting, &c., — none of them on a large scale. Some agricultural statistics are worth quoting, viz. : — " Horses, 205; value, $11,045: neat cattle, 917; value, $18,022: swine, 414, $2,954; Indian corn, 5,821 bushels, $4,G57 ; rye, 804 bushels, $725; barley, C04 bushels, $453; oats, 1,929 bushels, $750; potatoes, 20,123 bushels, $G, 030; other esculent vegetables, 1,521 bushels, $(510; hay, 1,538 tons, $17,500; fruit raised, 13,552 bushels, $5,000; butter, 31,124 pounds, $5,602; cheese, 17,444 pounds, $1,050." In 1855 the return mounted up to more striking figures in all the branches of manufacturing and mechanical industry. Then boots of all kinds manufac- tured amounted to 1,042,944 pairs, and shoes of all kinds to 5,048 pairs — total value, $1,787,315.20 ; employing male and female hands to the numljer of 3,398. Several new and profitable branches of business were I'cported, but further details are omitted. When we reach 1875, the statistics are much more elaborate and formidable. Then the town reported itself to have a population of 9,818, pursuing nearly fifty occupations, working up stock in over eighty establishments to the value of $2,353,251. In these eighty odd establishments the buildings were valued at $335,000, the average amount of stock constantly on hand at $627,935, and the machinery in use at $211,406. They kept seven- teen steam-engines in operation, with seven hundred and ninety horse-power, and six water-whccls, with one hundred and sixty-five horse-power. In these establishments were 2,618 employes, receiving wages to the amount of $1,110, - 532. There were twenty-one boot and shoe establishments (several of them large enough to hold all those of 1825), operating on a capital of $710,800, and turning out goods valued at $2,741,935. It would be tedious in this abstract to repeat many of the specifications returned for this year. The two branch railroads, Boston and Albau}' and Worcester and Providence, kept open communication with all the great metropolitan centres; neaily fifteen hundred boot and shoe makers plied their tools and skill, one hundred and fort}' mer- chants and shopkeepers dealt out their various stores, one hundred and fort}'- tivo farmers furnished their kinds of supply for man and beast, one hundred and sevenl3'-four machinists wrought out the products of their ingenuity, twenty-six fonudrymcn faced their furnaces, eisrhty carpenters were busy at their callings, tweuty-fivc blacksmiths sweat at their anvils, ninety-two dress- makers and twenty-three milliners attired the fair sex, forty-five painters RELIGIOUS HISTORY. 71 garnished the houses and other articles in their line, two commodious hotels entertained travelers and boarders, eighteen saloon-keepers ministered to Ionis- ing appetites, six male and tifty-seven female teachers taught the public schools, two nat'M)nal banks and one savings bank watched over the currency, three pnst-oiBces received and distributed the mail, thirteen physicians treated the sick, six lawyers gave counsel in legal matters, one district judge and numerous justices of the peace preserved public order, three i)riiiting-offices difTused intelligence, and ten clergymen devoted themselves to the salvation of souls. Much more might be told of the town's upward march in municipal importance, but, so far as necessary, it may be better presented under other heads. Xext the religious history, development and status of the town may be given. There arc seven regularly organized religious societies, which have church edifices and maintain public worship, besides other peculiarists, who, without much organization, hold occasional meetings of a religious nature. Originally there was but one organized society, "the standing order," so called, of Con- grogatioualists. ^lention has already been made of the church organized April 15, 1741. Its membei"s seceded from the First Church in Mendon, mider plea of having been "aggrieved" in their former relations, and succeeded in getting themselves recognized by an ecclesiastical council as the "Second Church in Mendon." They chose John Jones and Josiah Adams as their ruling elders; also Nathaniel Nelson and Abraham Jones as their deacons. All Iho^e were formally ordained, and pul)Iic worship was more or less frequently held in the dwellings of certain members. Presently, as has already been told, the easterly precinct was incorporated, a meeting house built, or at least the exterior of one, and Rev. Amariah Frost ordained as the first ])astor, Dec. 21, 17d3. Meantime a full reconciliation was ctfectcd with the mother church, and its [)astor. Rev. Joseph Dorr. Rev. Amariah Frost, who appears to have been a learned, prudent, Christian gentleman, held the pastoral otficc until his dealli March 14, 1792, at the age of 72 years, and in the 4'.)th j'car of his ministr3\ Immediately after the town was incorporated, the church took the title, " Fir^t Church of Christ in ]\Iilford," which Las continued to the present lime. During the first ten or twelve years of Mr. Frost's pastorate, he had consider- able tri)ul)le in his church fntm a species of Conieoutism, that originated prob- ably in Whitefield's revivalism, or the influences that followed it. The Comeouters, headed by one Samuel Hovey, who set up as a lay preacher, were quite numerous for a time, and kept up a separate meeting in jirivato houses, chiefly in the North Purchase. But their zeal cooled oil', and Mr. Frost's pru- dence brought most of them back into his fold. For many j-cars his moderate salary was raised by rate, but afterwards mostly b}'^ voluntary contribution in some form. Ho christened a large number of children, added many members to his church, solemnized about four hundred marriages, and educated a con- siderable number of young men for college or the professions. He died while his meeting-house was in process of enlargement and thorough repair. 72 TOWN OF INIILFORD. The nine years immediately s.uccecding Mr. Frost's dealli were inauspicious. Religious opinion became dividetl, sectaries mnltiplicd, the town awkwardly performed its assumed parochial functions, and forty candidates -were tried before a new pastor could be agreed on by concurrence of the church and parish. At length Rev. David Long gave satisfaction, and was ordained May 20, 1801. His pastorate continued forty-three years, and terminated in bis resignation, May 15, 1841. He was in no respect inferior to his predecessor, and, in several respects, probably superior. In natural ability, learninir, judgment, and all the qualities of a successful clergyman in a rural commuuit}-, he commanded general reverence and confidence. He was strictly evangelical in faith, occlcsiasticism and piclistical methods, and maintained his position with great fidelity. But he officiated in more turbulent times than Mr. Frost, and found more difficulties to face. Division and antagonism prevailed among the people, and ho lived to sec new tastes spring up oven within his own fold, which hankered for more attractive jjulpit performances. About the year 1819, a new church edifice was proposed, and a very handsome one erected. This movement occasioned a bitter controvers}' between the town part\', so called, and the parish party. Both parlies claimed the old meeting- house. The parish party reorganized itself so as legally to inherit precinct rights, and hold them by final decision of the courts. But party feelings, party lines and party rivalry involved man}' unpleasant consequences. It were useless to particularize. The new parish nieeting-houso was completed, elegant]}- furnished, dedicated and enjoyed, yet with a heretical rival set up the next year in its neighborhood, which became the cherished rendezvous of many antagonistic minds. Nevertheless, the Congregationalist Church and jiarish prospered, maintained its preponderance of zeal, wealth and numbers, and to this day rejoices in its strength. Mr. Long, like his predecessor, sei-vcd faithfully on a meagre salary, practiced a masterly economy, laid no burdens on his people, and when he felt that a successor of m(jre brilliant address was desired, quietly resigned, but still continued to serve the town as a trusted school committee-man till his death, IMarch 13, 1850. Rev. Smith Bartlett Goodenow succeeded Mr. Long. He was installed Oct. ;]0, 1814, and dismissed Jan. 1, 1S4G. He was followed by Rev. Preston Pond, who was installed May 24, 1810, and dismissed Feb. IG, 1852. His successor was Rev. James Tragic Woodbury, who was installed July 15, 1852, and died suddenly in his pastorate, Jan. Ifi, 18G1. Rev. Alfred A. Ellsworth was ordained Sept. 4, 18G2, and dismissed Juno 28, 1865. Rev. James B. Thornton was installed Nov. 22, 18G5, and resigned Jan. 28, 18G8. Rev. Sylvester C. Kendall was in-stalled Aug. 5, 18G8, and dismissed June 12, 1873. Rev. Mfrrill Richardson, D. D., was installed June 12, 1873, and (lied in his popular pastorate, Dec. 12, 1877. The present incumbent, Rev. Oliver S Dean, was installed Sept. 20, 1877, and ministers to his jicoplc with commanding respect. The church edifice was removed westward its whole UNIVERSALISTS. loncrtli in 1808, raised up so as to afl'ord sparo for a siiilc of hasomont rooms ill llic liandsomost inodorn style, much extended in length, and completely renovated, — all at an expense of over $25,000. Its accommodations, heauti- titalions, fine organ, &c., arc eminently satisfiictory to the congregation and l)ul)]ic. It will seat u large conconrse, and has an average Snnday attendance of several hundreds. The parish has been paying its pastors, since ISfiS, an annual salary varying from $2,000 to $3,500. The church numbers 79 male members, and 210 females ; ii total of 289. Its Sunday school numbers between 300 and 400, and the library thereof over 800 volumes. Several sub- sidiary benevolent societies arc in active co-operation in connection with the ])arish and church. The Univorsalist Society ranks next in age. Universalism began to be ]ireachcd in IMilford, probably, in 1781 or '82, by Rev. Adam Streeter. The society was organized with eleven members in August, 1785. It bore the title, "The Independent Christian Society, commonly called Univorsalist." Dec. 28, 1787, it adopted the religious compact recommended by the then recently organized General Convention of Universalists to all its constituent societies ; ii document too long for insertion here. The society held regular Sunday meetings once .i month in the dwellings of its members for many years. In 1791, the town voted them the privilege of holding meetings in the "Town's Meeting-house on week days, when not otherwise wanted." They continued to hold meetings, cither monthly or less frequently, down to 1819. The lireachers who supplied, either regularly once a month or occasionalI\-, from 1785 to 1819, were Revs. Adam Streeter, Zephaniah Lathe, Joshua Flagg, Mr. Bigelow, Richard Carrique, (>alel) Rich, John Murray, and others whoso names are not recorded. In 1819, Avhcn the controversy arose between the town and parish parties about the ownership of the old precinct meeting-honse, the Universalist Society became at once the focus of new affiliations, and was the prominent iicir of public favor from the excited town party. The result was the "Diick Church," often so designated. Twelve proprietors associated themselves to erect that edifice, complete it f.ir iiublic worship, and sell or rent the pews to whoever might want them. Rivalry and ambition took care to make it a fraction larger than the parish sanctuary, to give it a substantial tower sixty feet high rather than a spire of loftier pretensions, to procure it a belt five hundred weight heavier, and to furnish it with one of Ilolbrook's best village clocks. All this was accomplished, and the house dedicated Jan. 10, 1821, with great rejoicings. The Universalists of Jlilford were now a peoj^lo prepared to assume and maintain a respectable religions standing. Since 1821, they have had a succession of some twenty pastors; viz.. Revs. Thomas Whit- tcmore, Jacob Frieze, Adin Ballon, Klbridgo Trull, Ruins S. Pope, II. W. Morse, Z. Baker, William Bell, W. R. G. Mellen, Benjamin II. Davis, William Coc, Willard Spaulding, Henry A. Eaton, David II. Plumb, James R. Johnson, George Hill, Russell P. Ambler, G. L. Demarest, Edward A. 74 TOWN OF MILFORD. Perry, and the present incumbent, Royal T. Saw^'er. Their pastorates have been of various length, from one year to six, and their salaries per annum from $300 to $1,800. The present one is $1,200. The society has passed through several vicissitudes of prosperity and adver- sity. It has been reorganized onco or twice under revised constitutions, with some little change of title. Under the pastorate of Rev. Henry A. Eaton, a church of communicants was formed, and recognized with the solemnities insti- tuted by the order. This was in 1849 or '50. About the same period, the society ci-ectcd their present handsome church edifice on Pearl Street, at a cost of over $9,000. It was dedicated May 1, 1851. It has about (JOO rcntal)lc sittings, a valuable organ that co?t $1,800, a commodious basement vestr\', and most other modern conveniences. The average Sunday congregation numbers 300 ; the communicants of the church, 28; the Sunday school, 125, and its library 425 volumes. The society is at this time in a nourishing and hopeful state. The ]\Iethodists gained an early foothold in Milford. Their circuit-riders began to preach in the North Purchase in 1792, and, with their sterling zeal, soon planted a society there. A preaching station was presently established in connection with a twin one in (Ilayden Row) Ilopkinton, and regular ministers were officiating before 1801. There was a devoted class in vigorous activity that year under Rev. Joseph Snelling, with Edmund Bowker and Ebenczcr McFarland as leaders. A meeting-house was built in 1815, 34 by 30 feet, with 12 feet height of posts, which, with occasional repairs, continued till burnt down by rowdy incendiaries Oct. 23, 18G0. A long succession of preachers, mostly Episcopal, but some of them Protestant Methodists, minis- tered to the society till it became defunct, some twenty j-ears or more ago. Those preachers, so far as records and tradition now show, were : Revs. George Cannon, John Harper, George Pickering, Joseph Snelling, Joshua Soule, Nchcmiah Coy, Elijah Heddiug, Isaac Bonney, Erastus Otis, Ilezekiah Thatcher, Herman Perr}'. Thomas W. Tucker, O. Robbins, A. T. Temple, Nathaniel Spindle, ,Iohn Dale, Lorenzo Johnson, Thomas Johnson, Thomas F. Morris, William Tozzer and Leonard Wakefield. The societ}' passed through many phases of fortune and jiolity milil it gradually died out, or was super- seded in 1844 by the present flourishing society in the town centre. This society commenced by holding prayer, praise and conference meetinars in private houses in 183G. These grcsv at length into meetings for public wor- ship in the old town house. The result of development was a church edifice and parsonage on Exchange Street by aid of a liberal donation from their wealthy brother in the ftiith, Hon. Lee Clafliu, late of Ilopkinton. The par- sonage was wholly his gift. The sanctuary was much enlarged and improved in 18G4. The society's property is now valued at $14,000, entirely free of debt. Its communicants number 240 ; average Sunday audiences, 250 ; Sun- day school, 200, and library 750 volumes. It has been served by the follow- EPISCOPALIANS. 75 iug named preachers and pastors, none of whose terms have exceeded three years : Revs. Henry E. Ilcnistead, Joseph Whitman, C. W. Ainsworth, Albert A. Cooko, Isaac Smith, Aaron D. Sargeant, Daiii<'l Richards, J. IM. Bailey, George G. Jones, Edwaixl S. Best, Joseph Scott, William G. Leonard, Loranus Crowell, William II. Hatch, Rodney H. Howaid, Porter M. Vinton, and George F. Eaton, the present incnmbcnt. The society seems to have a bright and assured future. The Baptists of this town deserve respectful mention. They are less numer- ous than the Methodists, but have a creditable standing among their contem- porary religionists. Their organization is styled "The Central Baptist Church and Society." Their church was organized Feb. 15, 1853, and recognized by an ecclesiastical council, March 10 of that year, having then twenty-three con- stituent members. Its meetings for public worship were held at first in the Brick Church, and then in various public halls, until, by persistent exertions and some aid from benevolent friends outside, they completed their commo- dious church-edifice on Pine Street. This was dedicated, with appropriate solemnities, July 18, 18G1. There have been a few Baptists in town, and occasional preaching of their faith and order, mostly in private dwellings or iu school-houses, from 1780 downward. Indeed, it may be presumed that the lino might be run back to early precinct times, say 1750. But the denomina- tion gained no organized foothold here till 1853. The Baptists here, as every- where, are a sober, determined and devoted people, who, if not fiist, are sure- footed. They have struggled hard under considerable dilliculties, and grown slowly, but may reasonably expect solid success. Their sanctuary cost $7,000, and is encumbered by no burden of debt. They have a good organ of twenty- two stops, an average Sunday audience of over 100, a resident membership of 113 communicants, a Sunday school of 117, and a ]il)rary of 270 volumes. Their succession of pastors has been as follows : Revs. J. W. Russell, Levi Abbott, Horace G. Hubbard, K. Holt, Josei)h Ricker, Mr. Paige, Mr. Carr, who died iu about three months, and Julius B. Robinson, whose pastorate closed May 25, 1870, to the great regret of his people and many outside friends. Rev. E. A. Woodsiui followed, installed Sept. 19, 1879. The Protestant Episcopal Church has a representative organization in this town, known as "Trinity Parish." It was organized in April, 18G4, and incor- porated by act of the Legislature in May of that year. Its membership then consisted of twenty persons. Religious services of this denomination were first held in Irving Hall on Sunday, May 17, 18G3, by Rev. Reese F. Alsop of St. John's Church, Framingham. Others followed, resulting iu the organ- ization of the parish and church. After organization, public worship was regularly held iu AVashington Hall, until the consecration of a church edifice, jMarch 21, 1871. That edifice stands on Congress Street, corner of Exchange. It is an ample structure iu the Gothic stylo of architecture, with a new tower recently added ; affords the usual conveniences of a public sanctuary, and 76 TOWN OF MILFORD. exhibits the peculiur fouttircs everywhere dear to Episcopalian veneration. It has also a fine or^an to lead its choral devotions. The entire cost of the whole was about $12,000, paid by subscription of members and outside donors. A dignified and reverent respectability characterizes the Protestant Episcopal Church wherever it casts the shadows of its sanctuaries, and it is so here. Its pillars arc persons of weight, culture and taste, and their less distinguished associates arc ])coplo of reputable moral worth. They have an average Sunday audience of 100 or more, about 80 communicants, a Sunday school of nearly GO, and a library of 300 volumes. Their succession of rectors, commencing Jan. 1, 18(54, has been: Revs. Henry Adams, George G. Jones, E. B. Allen, Reginald II. Howe, John M. Benedict, William F. Lloyd, and George R. AVheelock, recently resigned. Permanence and prosperity are the probable destiny of this society. St. Clary's Church (Roman Catholic) is now by far the largest religious oiganization in town, having an average attendance on its principal Sunday services outnumbering that of all the other congregations together. Yet it is of comparatively recent date. Previous to 1830, there were no known Catholics in Milford. There may have been, first and last, half a dozen Irishmen, and one or two of Catholic christening, but there was no profession. After that period, hero and there, one appeared as a craftsman or laboring jobber, who avowed his religion. The construction of the branch railroad to Framingham, between 1841 and 1848, brought swarms of them into town, and the great Irish famine doubled their number. The boot manufacturers gave them much emploj^ment, and they entered into every kind of practicable business. Mean- time they were as sheep without a shepherd, and were naturally looked after by those whose professional duty it was to see that they were not lost. Occa- sionally a priest called them together for religious services in their jirivate dwellings. In 1848, Rev. John Boyce from Worcester commenced the erec- tion of a church edifice. About the same time he organized the church and parish known as St. Mary's, and set in motion the necessary parochial opera- tions. The cliurch edifice was a wooden one of no extraordinary prctcnsion.s, but adapted to the then humble circumstances and wants of the people. It was erected in the neighborhood of "the Plains," so called, on the road to Iloliiston, north of Bear Ilill. It was consecrated in due time, and contiinied to be occupied till Dec. 25, 1870, when the spacious stone semi-cathedral on Granite Street was dedicated. Its first stone was laid with solemn prelatical ceremonies, by Rt. Rev. J. J. Williams, June 1, 1866, and it was nearly five years in building. It stands on the corner of Granite and Sumner streets, and is one hundred and sixty-five feet in length by seventy-two in width, besides the porches, the foundation of an intended lateral tower, which is to be of solid stone masonry. An extemporized wooden tower near by sustains, for the present, one of the richest toned l)ells in America. It was cast in Ireland, a few years since, and with its hangings weighs 4,000 pounds. The church HOPEDALE PARISH. 77 superstructure itself was built of a whitish granite taken from a quarry in Eoclvy Woods, is in the early English style of architecture, and scats about 1,400 persons, without extras. During 1878, the organ of the "Old South Church" in Boston was purchased and translated to St. Mary's choral gallcr}'. Under three-fourths of the edifice is a commodious chapel for daily services and mass for children on Sunday; and it is furnished throughout with a rich pleutitude of symbols, statuary and paintings — some of the latter displaying rare excellence. Attached to this spacious sanctuary are two acres of land occupied by priest's house and garden. The entire cost of the premises is stated to have been over $100,000. The projection, direction, execution and consummation of this whole parochial establishment reflect great credit on Rev. Father Ciiddihy, whose long pastorate of this parish has been replete with ener- getic achievement for its welfare and pi'osi)erity. He took charge of St. Mary's in 1857, which at that time included not only the Catholics of this town, but of a large surrounding region now supplied Ity several independent pastors. He has still 3,500 souls under his care, requiring 200 baptisms a year, and afTordiiig an average of 1,000 attendants on high mass, every week, and a Sun- day school of about 800. He has always had one or more sub-pastors to assi^t him in his arduous duties. His predecessors, of longer or shorter official ser- vice, were Rev. Fathers James Fitton (now of East Boston, first here), John Boyce, George A. Hamilton, Michael Carrahal and Edward Farrcliy,who died in his pastorate here Aug. 13, 1857. The Catholics of Milford have had a remarkable growth in numbers, indus- trial enterprise, aggregate wealth, intelligence, social standing and political weight. They have also made creditable moral improvement. Notwithstand- ing some defects and delinquencies, which good Catholics deplore and are striv- ing to correct, the general body exhibits a fair average of civil and moral worth. Protestant civilians and moralists, whose educational prejudices inclined them to anticipate serious evils from their influx, confess themselves, on the whole, happily disappointed. As a religious society their prospects are eminently auspicious. Natural increase, growing intelligence, gradual accunndation of property, reformation of unfortunate habits, devotion to their church, and above all, the oversight of an ecclesiasticism the most potent and efficient in Christendom, all concur to insure them a commanding future among us. The seventh reiigicnis society in town was organized Oct. 27, 18G7. It is an independent Congregational parish, though associated by mcmbers'.iip and religious fellowship with "The AVorcestcr Conference of Congregational (Uni- tarian) and other Christian Societies." At fin-malion it designated itself "a Liberal Christian Society, to be called The Hopcdalc Parish." It made no declaration of faith or principles, other than might be inferred from the pre- amble and articles of its constitution. Nor has it ever had any church organ- ization distinct from that of the parish. Its origin and circumstances rendered its constituency somewhat peculiar. It became the successor, heir aud assign 78 TOWN OF MILFORD. of "The HopedaleCoinnmiiity." That community was formed in 1841, located at Hopedale in 1842, vigorously prosecuted as a joint-stock and a united indus- trial association till 1850, and then continued as a practical Christian religious society, with certain guaranties, till 18G7. It was projected, and sustained till 1850, as an attempted exemplification of all the cardinal principles of prac- tical Christianity, both individually and socially. It has an important history of its own, but too long for this sketch. SufSce it to say, that, though one of the noblest of undertakings, it lacked some indispensable conditions of per- manent success, and its members had not the requisite wisdom, goodness and perseverance to master adverse influences. They therefore fell back into the prevailing order of society. A part of them naturally dispersed in the course of a few j-ears, new comers took their places, business prospered under the skilful management of the firms and corporations which succeeded the commu- nity, and its remaining members were blended with a complex population. The result was, "The Hopedale Parish,"' which inherited, by subsequent ami- cable arrangements, a nice little church edifice and grounds worth some $8,000, the Sunday school, its library of five hundred volumes, and a fund to support said lil>ravy of $800. Also the community cemetery and other residuary leavings of less importance. The new parish called the senior pastor of the community, who had resided in Hopedale since 1842, to be their pastor, and he has continued in that oiBce to the present time, on an annual salary of $800. It will be understood that he is the writer of this paper. The parish is small, never having over one hundred and twenty voting meml)ers. The average attendance on public worship cannot be rated at over one hundred; though it would be somewhat larger if it included the Sunday school. But the latter, which ranges from sixty to seventy-five attendants, has separate forenoon exer- cises, and is but slightly represented in the regular afternoon congregation. There arc pleasant privileges and associations connected with the parish, small as it is. IIo|)edalc itself, as a village, is a beautiful and cheerful one — steadily growing and prosperous. Several of its families attend public worship in the various sanctuaries of the town centre. Others quietly dispense with regular public ministrations and worship .as unedifying to them. But church-goers or not, u general good order and kindly feeling prevails among the Hopedale pop- ulation. There is a considerable number of modern Spiritualists in town, who have held many public meetings as well as social seances, during the past twenty- five years ; but have sustained no permanent organization. A Unitarian Society in the centre existed for a time, held public worship and had a minister, but disbanded after a year or two of experiment. There was also, at one time, a society calling themselves "Friends of Progress,'' which had only a brief existence. Proliably there are a few peculiarists diflicult to describe, and not a few sceptics, iudiflfcrentists, and unchurched outsiders of various characteris- tics. It may, however, be truthfully said that Milford has never had a propor- MILITARY RECORD. 79 tioiiately largo criminal class; that it has never developed rmich of supcrslitioii or faiuitieism among its population; and that, though it has a fair quota of minds inflexibly settled in their religious or non-religious convictions, there arc few niuuicipidities in the world whose inhabitants are more kindly tolerant of each other's dillereuces. CHAPTER II. MILTTART AND PATRIOTIC RECORD — REVOLUTION — INSURRECTIONS — MILITARY ORGANIZATIONS EDUCATION AND LITERARY STANDING — MAINTENANCE OF THE POOR — SANITARY EFFORTS FIRE DEPARTMENT — ROADS AND WAYS PARKS AND COMMONS — CEMETERIES. In respect to patriotism, warlike sacrifice and martial gallantry, this town has always sustained an eminent reputation. It has lired no cowards or traitors. And even the number on its soil, who, from religious scruples, stood aloof from military organizations has always been small. In its early precinct da\-s it is said to have been well represented by ofEeers and soldiers in the French and Indian war of 1744 to '48. In the great French war of 1755 to '()3, which resulted in annexing the Canadas, &c., to the British Empire, the muster-rolls and provincial records, although defective, bear testimony that this, as well as every part of Mendon, contributed liberally of men, W.ood and treasure to the triumph achieved. When the Revolutionary war opened, no portion of Mendon exhibited more stanch patriotism, zeal and devotion than the citizens cast of Neck Hill, — soon to bo set off as Milford. Of the four companies sent by the parent town to the early seat of hostilities, two were largely manned and officered from the easterly pi'ecinct ; one of these, if not both, flew with gallant alacrity to the near neighborhood of Boston, the mo- ment the battle of Lexington sent forth its alarm. This sketch cannot admit the detail of names, or even of collective movements, which belong to the local history of that period. SnfBco it to say, that through every stage of that war, before and after Milford became a town, its record is replete with deeds of heroic patriotism and self-saciilicing devotion to the great cause of American Independence. Among its native-born ofliceis and soldiers, the noblest was Alexander Scammell. lie was distinguished for all the personal, social and military qualities which rendered him a favorite in "Washington's family, and made him a'.i adjutant-general of the United Slates armies. lie was born in 1744, graduated at Harvard University in 1709, fought and was wounded at the l)attle of Saratoga in 1777, made adjutant-general in 1780, was field ofBeer at the siege of Yorktown, Sept. 30, 1780, when he was surprised and captured bj- a party of the enemy's cavalry, who basely wounded him after surrender. 80 TOWN OF MILFORD. He died of liis wounds, at Williamsbtirg, Ya., Oct. G, 1781, deeply lamented by his coiintrymon and friends as a pre-eminent liero-maifyr. In the distressing financial times which immediately followed the establish- nicut of national independence, and which bred the Shays insurrection. Mil- ford sympathized deeply with the suflcring classes, but gave no cuuntenanco to the insurrectionists, and stood ready to aid in crushing the armed malcontents; yet, when they disbanded, it earnestly petitioned the General Court to give them amnesty. Thus its people ac'cd the part of loyal pacificators. When the alarm occasioned by the whiskey insurrection of 1794 in Pennsylvania came, and the one occasioned by the threatened war with France in 1798, the town promptly prepared to answer the requisitions of government, by providing ail the necessaries, and holding their contingent of men ready (as the records phrase it) ''to march at a minute's warning." A vigorous train-band was liber- ally fostered, as had been done from early precinct times. In 1803, the enter- prising young men of the period organized an artillery company, wl)ic!i had a long run of popularity extending through forty-three years. It had two brass field-pieces, with generally full ranks in nice uniform, and was commanded nearly always by the most gallant ofEcers " to the manner born." It only had :i single opportunity to go into camp service, which was in 1814, near the close of the second war with England, and then for only about sixty da3's. The State government feared a British assault on Boston from formidable fleets hovering along the coast; But the danger was soon over, and the company honorably discharged. This company gave initiatory training to one brigadier- general, two colonels, eight majors, fourteen captains, no further prouKjted, and a proportionate number of lower officers. Probably most of its majors would have risen higher had not the company for the most part, been attached to an artillery battidion distinct from the ordinary militia. A fine company of light infantry, called "The Lafayette Guards," was organized in 1S2G, and sustained a good reputation till ISK!, — twenty years, — when it was disbanded. It reared two lieutenant-colonels, eig'.it captains, no fm-ther promoted, and a proportionate nnmijcr of subordinate officers. The ordinar}' infantry company', which iiegan with the militia organization immedi- ately succeeding the Revolutionary war and continued till 1840, when super- seded by the "Volunteer Militia," produced seven colonels and lieutenant- colonels, one major, twelve captains, no further promoted, &c. In 1840, nine Revolutionary pensioners still survived in town. The enrolled militia, liable to be mustered only in extraordinary cmergeucios, rose from one hundred and forty-five in 1810, to nearly fourteen hundred in 1875. A smart volunteer company, designated as "Co. A," was organized in 1853, which had a popular run till the war of Rebellion, when a considerable part of it b(.'came incor- porated with a New York regiment, called "The JMozart," mid went into United States service. It had a succession of five captains, one of whom became a lieutenant-colouel. HOPEDALI; MACHIM; CO , AM) DUTCHKU TKMPI.K CO.'s WORKS, IIOPEDAI.E, MASS. l.liAl.l , M-\ THE CIVIL WAR. 81 Milford claims an honoral)le record, for contributions of men, life, blood, treasure, and various useful services in the great war of Rebellion. She fur- nished, directly and indirectU', 1,205 men for the Ijattle-fields of the Union, — a surplus of 19") over all regular requisitions. Of these fifty were killed in battle, seventy-six died of wounds and disease, and ISO were sadly disal>led, several of whom have since died in consequence. The soldiers were led by forty-eight officers of the grade of lieutenants and captains, including four surgeons. Several of these fell in battle or died in camp. Those who survived won more or less promotion. One who 1 'ft hnnv a captain returned a nr.ijor, and one who left a second lieutenant retuincd a brevet brigadier-general. The town also insists on fair credit f )r having bred and educated A. B. Underwood (ihougli sent from another locality ), who left a captain, and returned a cripi)led hero, breveted a major-general, richly merited by deeds of valor and pamCul eudiu'ancc. The amount of money appropriated and expended on account of the war, exclusive of State aid, was $62, GOO, to which should be added $14.8:52, contributed by pri%'ate sul)scription ; total, $77,432. The amount p lid by the town during the war, for State aid, and which was refunded, was $t)(),13.").r)2. j\Ieantiinc the ladies of the town devotedly served the cause by assiduously providing sanitary stores, among which were 240 sheets, 77 pairs slippers, 222 pairs drawers, 885 band-.ige rolls, 448 shirts, 227 pairs woolen hose, 595 towels, 189 woolen undershirts, 447 handlcerchiefs, 24 "boxes of delicacies," 225 nai)kins, G5 pillows for wounded limbs, &c., &c. And while their seniors were euconntering the perils of actual war, their juniors at home fumed and drilled a company of lads, numbering from sixty to seventy-five, between the ages of fourteen and eighteen 3'ears. It was well officered, hand- somely uniformed, armed with light guns, and i)erformed much escort duty on various public occasions, in this and the ueighl)oring towns during the war. They were known as "The Milford Cadets." Since the war tlie town has had two regular volunteer companies; viz., "The Mayhew Guards," designated as " Co. F, 10th Regt. Mass. Vol. Militia ;" and, more recently, "Co. M, 6th Regt. Mass. Vol. Militia," — both sprig'.itly and creditable companies. "The Mayhew Guards " had a succession of five captains, one of whom became lieutenant-colonel of the regiment. The new com|)any is taking an auspicious stait and promises well. "The Grand Army of the Republic" has a constituent Post here, designated as "Major E. F. Fletcher Post 22." It was organized in October, 1867, has a goodl}' membership, is efficiently conducted, commemorates faithfully the heroic services of its fellow-soldiers ; decorates annually the graves of its fallen comrades, receives pecuniary encouragement from the town treasury, and is held in universal respect by the citizens. In education and literary accomplishments Milford never made very high jiretensions, yet is by no means " least among the thousands " of our New Eng- land Israel. At its incorporation in 1780, it had not a single school-house, VOL. 11— 11 82 TOWN OF MILFORD. and mother Mcndon herself but two on her whole domain. There were nominally four school districts, identical with those for highway work. Schools, such as they were, few, brief and poor, were kopt in the L's of dwell- ing-houses, impel feet out-buildings, and other extemporized (juarters. In the course of ten years the first generation of school-houses, to the number of six, were set up ; probably, all but one or two, made out of old shops reconstructed. They were of very inferior size and cheerless accommodations. Under what form of social co-operation they were erected, neither record nor present tradi- tion tells. After 1795, they began to be replaced by another generation of structures, erected according to a prescribed legal process and paid for by regular taxation. These were of an improved type, yet little akin to those of our times. The school districts passed through a long series of changes in number and boundaries until there were twelve. These were reduced to less than half a dozen, and finally entirely abolished in 1854. This radical change was preceded by the establishment of a high school which was opened in 1850, with cheering auspices, and has ever since been sust:iined to great general satisfaction. Tlic site, edifice and furnishings cost $6,795. The district school- bouses, when passed over to the town, were appraised to the amount of $G,591. So, in 1854, the town had invested in school-houses $13,386. Improvements were thenceforth made in these school-houses and new ones built, till now there arc some twenty in all, besides town-house rooms made use of for school purposes. These accommodate over forty schools. There are several large, handsome and commodious edifices in the list, but none exhibiting a vain dis- play. Their present total appraisal stands at $67,000. School moneys have been derived chiefly from the following named sources. AVhcn the town was set off from Mcndon it inherited one-third of a small school fund — the amount not ascertained, but of little account. Taxation has always been the main dependence. In 1780 the town raised $3,333, but it was Con- tinental money — poor trash. In 1781 the appropriation was $i>6.G7 in silver. Ten years later the sum was $133.33. In 1805 it was $300; in 1825, $,J00 ; in 1845, $1,200; in 1855, $4,500; in 1865, $10,000; in 1875, $18,000. Meantime the number of scholars increased from an unrecorded small handful to over 2,000. After the legi?latnre established the State School Fund in 1834, this town drew its annual share of dividends, which at one time ran up to over $500. Small incidentals sometimes came in from other sources. In early times the winter schools were taught only by males, and the summer ones by females. Latterly, female teachers are largely in the majority in winter as well as summer, and greatly to the i)ublic advantage. Wages, board, fuel, &c., were formerly low in comparison with present prices. The old distribu- tion of school money was per district, and unjustly arbitrary; the later more equitable, partly per district and partly per scholar; but it is now accommo- dated still more equitably to local wants, as practicabl}- as the nature of the case admits. SCHOOLS AND LIBRARY. 83 As to Iho oversight of (he schools aiul general niaiiagenient. it was at first ralhcr casual, irregular and irresponsive. The town records mention no general school committee as chosen, till March meeting, 1795. Prol)al)ly a few parents, the prudential comraittro and the clergyman took what little over- sight the schools got down to that date. Afterwards a geucr;d commiltcc was annually chosen, with perhaps two or Ihrec omissions, to act without pay in conjunction with the prudential committee of each school district. At Iciiirih now laws enlarged their powers, and gave thera moderate compeui-atiou. Since l^at, when the districts as corporations were aholi-hcd, the town's (ommittec have constantly risen in authority and imi)ortance, till they .almost ecpial tho selectmen in official control. Recently the town has sanctioned their recom- mendation for the appointment of a superintendent of schools, on a salary of $1,;jOO per annum. He has taken in hand most (f the committee's executive duties, and the experiment has proved eminently successful. Since 1795 the town has been served by over one hundred and seven general school-committee individuals, for longer or shorter terms, and several of them for many succes- sive years. Samuel Jones, Esq., served (en jears ; Pearley Hunt, Esq., nine- teen years; Samuel Daniell, seventeen years ; Dr. Gustavus D. Peck, eleven years ; Isaac Davenport, Esq , fifteen years ; Rev. David Long, twent3-lhrcc years, besides much previous clerical service; Lcander Holbrook, Esq., seventeen years; George G. Parker, Esq., fourteen years; Herman II. Bowers, sixteen years; and Charles J. Thompson twelve years, being still in service. The present status of the public schools is prosperous and satisfactory. The town has a valuable library, established in 1858, under judicious regula- tions, which pup])lies admirabi}' a great literary want. It contains 5,417 volumes, delivered out for the year ending Feb. 8, 1879, 30, GOG books, and stands among the town's assets as valued at $5,000. It should be added to the foregoing that IMilford has always been expcndirg considerable sums of money in the way of educating her sons and daughters out of town, in colleges, academies and private seminaries. The number of regular college graduates, commencing in the days of the Easterly Precinct, is not large, numbering, perhaps, about thirty ; but the number of undergraduates and partially liberally educated persons would make up a much larger list. Then, there have been numerous private schools in town from its incorporation to the present time. These have ranged in grade all the way up from ])iiinaries to academic and select seminaries capable of fitting students fur college and the less exacting professions. At the present moment several excellent private schools are in successful operation, as they have been for jears. One of these is a (lourishing kindergarten, and the others are well- sustained schools of higher grade, taught by competent and accom[)Iished ft male teachers. All these arc mentioned justly, as showing the general interest in cdiuation among the people outside of valuable schools sustained by public approiniations. 84 TOWN OF MILFORD. The town has made a fair rocoi-d, too, in respect to the maintenance of it^^ jjoor, its provision for the pul)lic health and its protection against fire. In its younger days it shared the dread of pauperism wiiich seemed general in all New England municipalities. It warned out all persons liable to become chargealile for maintenance to the extreme of legalit}'. It stood out at law against maintaining paupers belonging to other towns, and triumphed in some memorable cases. And in supporting its own poor it pursued the parsi- monious policy of its neighbors for awhile, vendueing them to those who would keep soul and body together at the lowest price. To its credit, however, it was among the first in its neighborhood to vote down that abominai)le custom. It did this in 1806, urged by Col. Ariel Bragg, who in earl\' j-outh had tasted the bitter cup, and who was able to muster a sufficient following of sympa- thizers to make up a majoritj'. But it did not rid itself of all concomitant abuses in pauper management till 182.5. Then, by a strong vote, it decided to purchase a farm and open a well-regulated asylum for its jioor. That experiment worked well, and after a few years of managemental experience the poor were not only economically provided for, but have had a comfortable home. The farm now consists of about one hundred and thirty acres, has an ami)le mansion-house, built in 1849 at a cost of $3,502.34, and has the requisite barns, outbuildings and other conveniences, all in good order, which arc set down among the town's assets as valued at $4,000. For the year ending Feb. 11, 1879, the town expended on account of its poor, in and out of the asylum, $11,539.2.3, and $300 more in repairs on the farm buildings. The average number of poor in the asylum in any \-ear has never exceeded thirty-uiuc, and in 18G0 was only fourteen. In 1878 it was reported to be thirt3'-bix. The immediate management of the farm and asylum has been conlidcd to a supcrin- tondenl and matron, who, with few exceptions, have been husl)and and wife. Of these there have been, thus Air, twenty-one jiairs. Most of these have been humane, judicious and exemplary ^icrsous. The present incumb^'nts, who have been in position since April, 18(59, — Sumner Harrington and wife, — are pre-cminenti}' such ; very kind-hearted, patient and discreet in (heir difficult office. The town had no officers distinctively styled Overseers of the Poor till 182(). Since then sixty individuals have served in that office one or more terms of a year, and several of them man}' years each. Am.isa Lcland served six years, Chester Clark six, Leonard Chapin nine, Ilcnry Chapin six, Richard Carroll six, John Madden nine, Benjimin II. Montague eight, and Eiias Whitney, who seems to be a fixed favorite, is still in the harness for the twentieth year. The town has been carefully endeavoring to maintain wholesome sanitary regulations. Its Board of Health was instituted in 1859, and has been in successful operation ever since. It has issued, from year to j'ear, in print, its methods and directions for the prevention of disease, the removal of causes dangerous to public health, and all necessary helps to general cleanliness. It i FIEE DEPARTMENT. 85 has had, for the most part, competent and efBcicnt officials, who have annually reported to the town the results of their administration, and made such recom- niendatious fur future action as seemed to them necessary. For several recent years the town has made the selectmen its Board of Ileallh. In ;"especl to provisions for the prevention and extinguishment of tires, the town, after getting fairly inducted into the business, has been wise and generous. Previous to 1831 the inhabitants had no firo-engine or special apparatus to meet the outbreak of this dangerous dt'stroyer. Then a small tub- ( ugiue was procured Iiy subscri|)tion, and manned by voluntary assistance. Thereafter followed in rapid succession the procurement of ])otter and better engines. Then the town began to vote moderate encouragements in the form of appropriations, and to elect fire-wards, so called. A second engine and company soon took the field. Engine-houses were built. Then followed other companies, with various kinds of helpful apparatus. Then came, at length, in 1854, the organization of a proper fire department under a special act of the legislature, with all needful rules, regulations and official machinery. The results have been very salutary and satisfactory. Step by step this fire department has attained its present strength and efficiency. It is now ready to face the fiery enem^' at a moment's warning with one hundred and sixty- seven men, five engines (two of them powerful steamers), a fine hook-and- ladder company, a "Wide- Awake" hose companj', with 5,950 feet of hose, a fire-extinguisher company, seventeen good reservoirs, well distributed about town, and various other appliances to ensure victory. The cost of all these organized anti-tire forces may be tolerably understood by the annual appropria- tions made in their behalf. It will be sufficient to specify those of 1857, 1807 and 1879. In the first-named year the appropriation was $3,222.03 ; in 18G7 it was $0,172.07 ; in 1879 it was $6,005.90. Perhajis, however, these figures somewhat exceed the annual average. Since its organization the department has been commanded by forty-eight chief engineers for longer or shorter scries of years. Several of these have served eight and ten years each, and one, Albert C. Withington, has served eighteen years. The institution is a costly one, but the duties of the firemen are arduous, perilous and responsil)le, and the citizens generally feel that they are none too well compensated and provided for out of the public treasury. The department is appreciated and res|)ected. Its well-directed energies have (pielled several dangerous conOa- gratioiis, and prevented, by prompt action in iheir incipient stages, a nmltitudc of others. In the matter of roads, streets, commons, cemeteries, &c., the town can give a good account of herself. She inherited from mother ilendon, in 1780, ::i)out fifty legally-laid roads, bridlc-palhs and ways of various title. But they were nearly all narrow, crooked, ill-graded and uncouth tracks. Her road material was generally of inferior quality, and the bottom rough. It has, therefore, been rather costly to repair, build anew, widen, straighten and 86 TOWN OF MILFORD. improve the highways. But the pnjcess of so doing has been puslietl forward vigorously all through the now closing century of the town's corporate cxist- ouce. Such old ways as could be dispensed with have, of course, been discon- tinued, but this could seldom be done without first opening new lines. Continual petitions came in year after year from citizens needing better accommodations, and far m(n'e costly I'oquirements came in from the county authorities which could not Ije resisted or much delayed. The thorouglifares through town, from Mcndon to Ilolliston, from its centre through North Piiichase to Ilopkiiiton by two routes, to U|)ton in a north-westerly direction, towards Bcllingham and Rhode Island through South Miltbrd, and towards Medway in an easterly direction, were formidable undertakings in their day, but they were necessary-, and, anyhow, came up in such a form that they could not bo shirked. Less important roads need not be mentioned. In 1843 the town had nearly fifty miles of road within its limits, by accurate measurement. Without any critical reckoning of subsequent additions in detail, it may be assumed that the i)rcscut total is at least one luinilrcd miles. And, extraor- dinary to this, the railroads must bo considered. These are the branch of the Boston and Albany out from Framiugham, opened July 1, 1848; the Milford and Woonsockct, incorporated in 1855, in the stock of which the town invested $50,000; and the IIo[)kinton, more recently built, of whoso stock and bonds the town owns $15,000. Communicaliou, internal and external, is now eminently good, though, doubtless, additional accommodations will continue to bo called for and provided. In 18G3 all the legally-accepted ways, higher and lower, were designated by name, and the nomenclature was sanctioned by the town. JIo.?t of them are named as streets, and number now considerabl}- over one hundred. The town has numerous commons of various dimensions. Most of the smaller ones are connected with school-houses. That of the high-school house is the largest and handsomest of these. The town-house common is not largo enough for panegyric. It contains oidy one acre and a half. The first town house was built on it, of brick, in 181!), in the midst of much partisan excite- ment. It became too small, and its present respectable successor was erected in 1854, of wood chiefly, at the cost of $15,000. It has spacious and numerous accommodations. The old one still stands in the background, and serves divers necessary purposes of public utility. A little more elbow-room on this common would add to its beauty, as well as convenience. But the town has ii noble park to glory in. It contains about fifteen acres, belonged formerly to the Twitchell estate, was bought in 18(53 for $10,000, is eligibly situated, and has received a liberal outlay for improvement and ornamentation. It has a splendid future in i)rospect. The town has four cemoteiMes under its control. 1. The ancient Burying- Grouud of the Easterly Precinct, where "the rude forefathers of the hamlet sleep," or did sleep, some of them without any stone inscription. This is quite CEMETERIES. 87 in the centre, and after Ihc town's incorporation was several times enlarged. It has ceased to receive hurials in its Ijosom, has hcen dismantled of its once formidable range of tomhs, and the ashes of its dead with their memorials have been nnmeroiis;ly removed to more clieerfiil resting-places. Some jiarts of it have been rnddy dealt with in quest of gravel for the street-^, .'ind the more reverent citizens feel that it has been desecrated. What will finally become of its soil remains to be seen. 2. The South Milford " Durying-Ground." This was opened in 1801. It originally contained only sixty-six rods, purchased of or rather donated by Elijah Alhee. This small are;i was moro than doubled in 183C by the purchase and annexation of half an acre. It has afforded very desirable accommodations to the bereaved in that quarter of the town, has been decently cared for, and presents a respectable array of monumental memorials. 3. The North Purchase " Graveyaid." This was opened in 1849, the town having purchased two acres of Ellis Sumner, Esq., and pro- vided for all the requisites of an unostentatious but creditable cemetery. Its silent inhabitants have been steadily increasing since its opening, and it exhibits !i reputable sepulchral depository. 4. "Vernon Grove Cemetery." This was opened in 1859, and contains over twenty-one acres, purchased of Abel All)ce for about $1,700. It is situated nearly a mile south-east of the town common, and possesses most of the natural features and advantages held desirable in a modern cemetery. It has become the depository of many recent dead, and of the lemains of hundreds removed fiom their original re>ting- places. A considerable portion of it has been avenued, laid into lots and greatly beautified. It has numerous fine memorial stones, several admirable monuments (including that of the soldiers who fell in the late war), and all the display which good taste and proper econoni}' dictate. In former times the town furnished hearses, grave-cloths and other paraphernalia, but these have all been superseded by professional undertakers, and it is deemed sufficient to provide receiving-toml)s and a few substantial necessaries. The Ilopedale Parish has a cemetery under its own control. It is of humble and modest pretensions. The Catholics of St. Mary's Church have a large one of their own, containing eight acres, on Cedar Street. There sleep already a host of forms whose mortal life began in the " Emerald Isle," as well as of those born on our soil ; and their marble tablets, with the monument of Pastor Farrelly, surmounted by the cross, proclaim to the passer-by that they died in the bosom of their holy mother church. But the "Pine Grove Cemetery" transcends all others in the town for scenic beauty, artificial embellishment and monumental display. It is owned by an as>ociation of jiroprictors belonging to Milford and the neighboring towns, who were incorporated in 1841. They have shown the inclination, ai)ility and taste to provide a home for the remains of their loved ones which connuands the adiiiiralion of all beholders. It is situated on the west side of Cedar Street, about two miles north-cast of the town centre towards IlopUiuton. It occui)iv.-3 «8 TOWN OF mLFOED. a wild :iik1 romantic site, between tiie ancient "North Cedar Swamp" and "KocUy Woods," which tlie forefathers lilllc dreamed would ever be conse- crated to such a use, but which, ucvcrtlieless, |)roves to have been hapfjiiy selected. It is superintended with excellent judgment and care. CHAPTER III. CIVIL RECOnD LEGISLATIVE ANO TOW.V OFFICERS POST-OFFICES FINAN- CIAL DEVELOPMENT COIU'ORATIONS AND SOCIETIES SOCIAL SPIRIT UlSTINGUISIIED PERSONS. The civil, political and financial annals of the town furnish some intcreslinii f;icts and figun s worthy of notice. It has been represented in all the State conventions assembled since 1780, to act on national and State constitutions, by its allowed number of delegates. It has sent to General Court lifty-cight representatives (some of them serving several years each), and five senators. It has been honored by one member of the Governor's Council, and one Presidential Elector. It has had lists of voters ranging all the way up from one hundred in its infancy to over two thousand in its maturity. Its meetings have been presided over by eighty-three diiierent moderators, many of tiiem acting on numerous occasions. It has been served by fourteen different town clerks, thirteen treasurers, one hundred and eighty-three selectmen, one hundred and eleven assessors, sixty overseers of the poor, and a proportionate number of minor town ofEcers. A considerable minority of the principal oliiccrs were many times re-elected, and some through a long series of }ears. It has had about sixty different justices of the peace, often re-a|)i)ointed. It had a Police Court established in 1854, which was subsequently a])olislied, then re-established, and finally superseded in 1872 by the Third District Court of Southern Worcester. These successive courts have had tlicir proper judges, assistants and clerks. Meantime, the town has had its needed supi)ly of deputy- sheriffs, policemen, &c. The citizens had no post-office within their muniripal limits till March 7, 1814, when one was established at South Milford. Another was established in the Centre, Feb. 10, 1823, and another at Ilopedale May 13, 1861. These have had, in all, twent3'-fivc different postmasters. The present incumbents arc : II. B. Fisk at South Milford, George G. Pond in the Centre, and George Draper at Ilopedale. The one in the Centre does a very large amount of business, but the others are lively establishments on a smaller scale. The population uses mail facilities to an extraordinary extent, besides patronizing libcrall}- a telegraph office now for several years in operation. BUSINESS CORPORATIONS. 89 The financial affairs of the town have gradually grown to a huge magniliide. Tiic infantile valuation could not have exceeded $150,000 as a guess estimtite. It now stands, under a recent reduction, at $4,510,227. It began without a single school-house, and now claims to have $(57,000 invested in some twenty such houses, many of them commodious and substantial edifices. In 1781 it raised $G7 for schooling; in 1878, for teaching, $15,952.10, fuel. $717.53, school incidentals, $1,471.99, and repairs of school-houses, $1,158.17; total, $22,299.79. In 1781 it raised for highways $300; in 1878 it expended for the .same and kindred purposes $9,183.28. Its early assets of municipal property were a mere trifle ; they arc now estimated at $249, GOO. But some of its citizens rather regret that its indebtedness amounts to $204, GOO. Its credit is, nevertheless, good, and nobody fears a financial collapse of its treasury. The hard times have shrunk its valuation about one-fifth since the panic of 1873, but there is a general hopefulness for the future. Milford has numerous corporations and associations which must not be for- gotten. They have various objects and characteristics, from strictly secular to strictly religious, as will be understood from their titles and a brief descrip- tion. Milford Natioual Bauk, in Bank Block, Main Street, organized March, ixGo; capital $250,000; par value of shares $100; president, Aaron C. Mayhcw ; cashier, Augustus Wheeler; teller, James E. Walker. Milford Savings Bank, Bank Block, Main Street ; incorporated 1851 ; president, Orison Underwood ; vice-presidents, A. C. Mayhcw, Allen C. Fay and Obed D.micls; with nine trustees, and James E. AValkor, treasurer. Home National Bank, Old Bank Building, Main Street, organized May, 1875; capital $130,000; par value of shares $100; president, Samuel Walker; vice-president, G. W. Johnson ; cashier, N. B. Johnson. Milford and Woonsocket Riilroad, incor- porated in 1855, extends from Milford Centre to Bellingham, nearly four miles; depot and office on Central Street, near South Bow; authorized capital $100,- 000, about $80,000 paid in ; president, George Draper ; treasurer, Charles F. Claflin, with seven directors. Milford Gaslight Company, incorporated in 1854; capital $80,000; president, Allen C. Fay; treasurer, B. E. Harris; superintendent, I. N. Davis, with eight directors. It has several miles of pipe and sends gas all the way to the village and the machine-sho[)s of IIr)pedale. Worcester South-east Agricultural Society : This includes, of course, citizens of the neighboring towns. It was incorporated in 18G0 ; annual meeting first Thursdaj' in December; fair last Tuesday and Wednesday of Septemi)cr, at Charles River Riding Park, where the socict}' has a spacious edifice, with com- modious hall, &c. President, AVilliam Knowlton of Upton ; vice-presidents, Stephen Mathewson of Milford, Newell Eaines of Holliston, John Phii)i)s of Hopkinton, F. Worcester of Grafton, and Anson Warren of Westborough ; secretary, Charles G, Thompson of Milford ; treasurer, Alexander T. "Wilkin- son of Milford. Ninnber of memi)ers 700. Milford Farmers' Club, organ- ized 1859; incorporated 1870; fair held first and third Saturdays in every 90 TOWN OF MILFORD. month at Farmers' Exchange on tlio town park ; officered by a president, sec- retary and treasurer. Iltrse-Tliicf Detecting Society, organized Dec. 21, 171)5 ; composed of three hundred members, belonging to this and the neigh- boring towns ; president, Julius R. George of Mt-ndon ; vice-president, Henry A. Aldrich of Mcndon ; secretary. Dr. Jolin G. Metcalf, also of Mendon ; treasurer, Charles F. Chapin of Milford ; membership fee $1 ; funds on hand $4,081 ; and an ample pursuing committee in several towns. Thurbcr Medical Association, composed of medical gentlemen in Milford and the vicinity, who belong to the Massachusetts Medical Society ; organized June 9, 1853 ; object, professional improvement ; fund $000, the income of which is devoted to the purchase of books ; number of members about twenty ; rooms 120 Main Street, meetings once a month ; officers elected annually in October; president, Chas. E. Spring of Ilolliston ; vice-president, George King of Franklin ; secretary', J. Allen Fay of Jlilford ; treasurer, John G. Mctcalf of Mendon. Of Masonic Ijodies there are four; viz., Montgomery Lodge, chartered in 1797, formerly of Mcdway, and thence removed hither several years ago; Mt. Lebanon Riyal Arch Chapter, chartered in 1824, also formerly of Medway and removed hither ; Milford Commandery of Knights Templar, and the Masonic Mutual Relief Society. The Odd Fellows have two bodies in town, entitled Quiushipaug Encampment, No. 20, and Tisquantum Lodge, No. 4G. Knights of Pythias have one body entitled. Day State Lodge, No. 51, organized April 14, 1870. The temperance cause has had a long succession of organizations with various titles. At present it has the following named : Fidelity Lodge, No. 21 ; Inde- pendent Order of Good Templars; Elmwood Lodge, No. 129, do. ; Catholic Temperance Association ; Milford Temperance Reform Club, &c. There is a considerable body of Irish-American citizens in town, known as the Ancient Order of Hibernians, whose object is to commemorate and preserve Irish national unity. Of a more strictly religious character there are : The Milford Bible Society, organized in 1857 ; the Young Men's Christian Association, and several minor societies of various designations. Most, if not all, the above- named corporations, associations and organizations are in a flourishing condi- tion. Several less public corporations and associative institutions arc also prospering, but need not be named in this account. "What may be termed the social characteristics of Milford ougiit, perhaps, to receive some notice. Although the distinctions of race, rank and class exist, and with increasing dcfinitencss, yet there is a predominant sociality and fra- ternity of feeling throughout the town. The population has, for the most part, always inclined to common humanity, equality, sympathy and friendly social intercourse. There has alw.ays been a general fondness for congenial and con- vivial gatherings and amusements. A "good time" never came amiss, and its repetition was never long delayed. In the olden days they had the husiiings, quiltings, rural dances, play parties, games and sports of various kinds. Next came the traveling jugglers, slight-of-hand performers, caravans and other EMINENT MEN. 91 showmen. Dramatic exhibitions and theatrical plays by home troupes, com- menced as early as 1824, iu the brick mecting-houso. Balls of more fashion- able style and importance came into vogue, and came to stay. And now scarcely a week passes without more or less of social entertainment, in the form of theatrical performance, musical concert, excursion, fair, levee, c]u1)-feast, base-ball, or some one of the thousand modern amusements. Even the churches, as well as moral reform societies, have gone into the practice of getting up various sorts of "good limes" to raise funds, please their Sunday schools and increase their congregations. There arc yet no theatres or opera-houses erected for such express purposes, but the town hall, Lyceum Hall, "Washington Hall, Irving Hall, and others of less note, afford the necessary accommodations, and are well patronized. We have some staid and plain-living people, who think they can cnjo}' existence with a smaller spice of social amusement, and who are disposed to mind their own business in a more quiet way ; but they are not in the majority, nor exactly in the fashion. Although there arc some vicious amusements, and, doubtless, many abuses of innocent ones iu town, w'hich ought to be abated, its civil morality will average fairly with that of most other communities, even of some who claim to be much more Puritanical. It has no excess of the dangerously crin)inal classes, albeit we are not free from misde- meanors, and there is room for a vast improvement before (he millenium. Milford cannot boast of having given birth to many distinguished persons, widely known beyond its immediate and general vicinity. Am(jng the few in whose eminence and fame it claims honorable patrimony, one has already been mentioned as its Kevolutiouary hero-martyr, — Gen. Alexander Scammcll, of ■whom the town was bereaved in the second year of its corporate existence. Ho was a son of Dr. Samuel Leslie Scammcll and Jane his wife, born in 1744, and left an orphan lad by the death of his father in 17.53. His father commended Alexander, with an elder brother, to the educational oversight of Rev. Amariah Frost, to be fitted for college. Alexander graduated at Har- vard in 17G0 ; studied law with Gen. John Sullivan of New Hampshire; was appointed brigade-major of the New Ilampshiic militia, 1775 ; became colonel of the third New Hampshire battalion of Continental troops, 177G; com- manded the third New Hampshire regiment, 1777, and was wounded in the battle at Saratoga, N. Y. ; commanded the first New Hampshire regiment in 17S0 ; and was about that time appointed adjutant-general. He is said to have been a great favorite of Washington, and very popidar in the arm}'. At the siege of Yorktown, while acting as field officer on the .30th September, 1781, and reconnoitring one of the enemy's redoubts, ho was suddenly surprised and captured by a detachn)ent of scouting cavalry. He then gracefully said : "Gentlemen, I am 3'our prisoner"; whereupon a brutal Hessian gave him a mortal wound. He was conveyed to Williamsburg, Va., where he died of his wound, October Glh, ensuing, deeply lamented by all who knew him in camp, at home, and throughout the country. 92 TOWN OF MILFORD. Rev. Stephen Cluipin, D. D., president of Columbian College, Washington City, D. C, is another distinguished native of this town. lie was a son of Stephen and Rachel (Rawson) Chapin, horn Nov. 4, 1778. In his seventh year ho learned the alphabet in a neighborhood school, taught by his uncle, Adams Chapin. At nine years of age he experienced religion ; at seventeen, united with the church; in 1804, graduated at Harvard University; studied theology under Dr. Emmons of Franklin ; was ordained pastor of the Congre- gational Church in HiIlsb(n-ough, N. II., June 19, 1805, and dismissed there- from May 12, 1808. He was ne.xt installed over the Congregational Chnrcli at Mt. Vernon, N. II., Nov. 15, 1809, where he changed his views of baptism, from those of Congregationalism to those of the Baptists, and was thereupon dismissed. In 1819, he became pastor of the Baptist Chin-ch in North Yar- mouth, Me. In 1822, Brown University conferred on him the degree of S. T. D., and the same year he was elected professor of sacred theology in Water- ville College, Me., which office he tilled till 1828. He was then called to the presidency of Colimibian College, just established at W^ashington, D. C, where he remained until his death, Oct. 1. 1815, at the ago of sixty-seven years. In 1809, ho married Sarah Mosher of IloUis, N. II., who, wilh three sons and two daughters, survived him. He was held in very high estimation for piety and learning by all who know him. Rov. Levi Nelson was loss distinguished, but regarded, especially in his own religious denomination, as a remaikaljle man. He was a son of Dea. Seth and Silence (Cheney) Nelson. He was born Aug. 8, 1789. lie was edu- cated partly at Brown University and partly at Williams College, but failed to graduate on account of ill-health. Ho studied theology with Dr. Ennnons, who encoin-aged him to persevere in his aims at the ministry, and he was finally approbated to preach. After preaching in several places, as health permitted, he settled in Lisbon, Ct., where he was ordained Dec. 5, 1804. He is said to have preached fifty-seven hundred dilTerent sernums, several of which were published. He was a conscientious, devoted and industrious man in his call- ing, and so stauchly orthodox of the old school, that he bequeathed $1,000 to his parish on the strict condition of their not settling as his successor a man embracing "the New Haven theology." He died in 1855, at the age of sev- enty-seven years, and in the fifty-second of his ministry. Hon. Jonathan Thayer, a son of Elijah and Sarah (Robinson) Thayer, was born Jan. 27, 1779, was graduated at Brown University in 1803, paid some attention to legal studies, settled in Camden, Me., held a seat in the Governin's Council for many years, and was Judge of Probate for seven years. He mar- ried his wife in Wiscasset, Me., and had at least two children in Camden. Ho died there Sept. 20, 1853. Hon. Ezra Hunt, a son of Daniel and Mary (Phillips) Hunt, was born Ap)il 7, 1790, graduated at Harvard University, 1815, excelled in the knowledge of mathematics and the exact sciences, was preceptor of Leicester Academy for PUBLIC CHARACTERS. 93 some time after his graduation, took cliargo of the academy in Pulaski, Tciin., ill 1818, studied law while there under Judge William C. Carr, went into prac- tice in Louisiana, Mo., and thence removed to St. Charles. Later he removed to Rowling Green in the same State, and pursued liis profession there. Li LSI)(), he was appointed Judge of the Circuit Court of that judicial district, and di^chaigcd his duties with fidelity, ability and to general sati^^faction. lie decided questions of law, but seldom or never addressed juries. He was chairman of the judiciary committee in the Convention called to revise the Constitution of Missouri, had one of the best libraries in the State, and was regarded not only as an excellent jurist, but as eminently accom[)lished in gen- eral literature. At the age of about forty years, he married a young wife, Ihc eldest daughter of Judge Rufus Pettibone of St. Louis, Mo. ; viz., Maria E. Pcttibone, Ma\' IS, 1830. He died suddenly, while attending a session of his court at Troy, Lincoln Co., Mo., Sept. 10, 18G0, aged seventy j'eai-s. Hon. Albert Hobart Nelson, son of Dr. John and Lucinda (Parkhurst) Nelson, was born March 12, 1812, removed early to Middlesex Conntj', with his parents, graduated at Harvard University 1832, went into the legal profes- sion with success, was raised to an honorable position on the bench, and finally, in 185.5, to be chief justice of Suffolk Superior Court. He died in 1858, in the ripeness of his usefulness and honors. William Claflin, LL. D., ex-governor of the Connnonwealth, and since mem- ber of Congress from the eighth district, was reared in Milford. He was a son of Hon. Lee Claflin and Sarah (Adams), his wife, born March fi, 1818, was educated ji.'irtly at Brown Universit}', and partly in other seminaries, without a formal graduation, and received his degree of LL. D. from Harvard University in 18G9. He removed in early manhood from his native town, lirst to Hopkinton and later to Newton, devoted himself successfully to busi- ness in the boot, shoe and leather line, won the confidence of his fellow-citizens and reached the gubernatorial chair in 18G9. He retained his high position as chief magistrate of the State three years, and in more recent years has been twice elected by the eighth Congressional district to represent them in the National Ccmgress. He is still in the vigor of life, active in public as well as business a(i"airs, and deservedly held in high esteem by thousands of apprecia- tive friends. The town is proud of another Claflin, who has risen to eminence in commer- cial pursuits from a career commenced in his native vicinage — Horace B. Claflin — who may be reckoned among the merchant princes of New York City. He is a sou of John Claflin, Esq., and Lydia (Mellen), his wife, born Dec. 18, 1811, respectably educated outside of the colleges, inspired by a genius for trade, commenced mercantile business here in 1832, soon removed to Worces- ter and established there a successful firm ; went to New York in 1843, and at the head of a congenial copartnership opened a jobl)ing dry -goods establish- ment. It has had a wonderful growth, reached a mammoth importance, and 94 TOWN OF MELFOKD. now commands universal admiration. Tlie house of II. B. Claflin & Co. sways its sreptre over a vast s[>licrc of commercial dependence, confidence and honor. Its head is full of vigorous brain, and its hands diligent in triuiui)liant traffic. Gen. Adin B. Underwood has already been mentioned in connection with the militai-y record of his native town. lie is a son of Gen. Orison Underwood and Hannah B. (Cheney) his wife, was born May 19, 1823, graduated at Brown University in 1849; studied law; practiced his profession awhile in Miiford ; removed to the vicinity of Boston ; closed his office at tlie outbreak of tlic Re- bellion tol)ecomc acaptain of Massachusetts Volunteers, and was mustered into service May 18, 18G1. He performed valorous feats in Virginia, rose on his merits to the command of a regiment, was ordered to j(.in the army near Chattanooga, Tenn., and fought in the memorable Battle of Lookout Mountain, which drove the rebels from one of their strongest holds. lie was all but mortally wounded in that bloody conflict, laid at death's door for months, and sadly crippled for life. He was made a brigadier-general in acknowledgment of his dear-bought heroism, but was never again able to take the field. Wiien sufficiently recov- ered to perform less perilous service, he was made president of an important court-martial in Washington, from which, however, ho was excused and appointed surveyor of customs at Boston. On being discharged from the army he was breveted a major-general. He is still in the official harness at Boston, endures resolutely the life-long consequences of his wounds and wears his laurel-wreath with becoming grace. Miiford has other children in whose worth she takes just pride, and who perhaps ought to have their names inscribed on this roll of honor; but lack of space forbids. Brief reference can only be made to a few fathers of the town, who were most conspicuous in the conduct of its affairs during their several generations. Many others must remain unmentioned, though no less merito- rious. During the first quarter century of the town's corpDrate existence, the following named were among its prominent actors; viz., — Caleb Cheney, Sr., Samuel Jones, E-^q., Adams Chapin, Esq., Capt. Sam'l Warren, Dr. Samuel L. Scammell, Col. Ichabod Thayer, Lieut. David Stearns, James Sumner, Esq., Lieut. Ephraim Chapin, &c. In the second quarter-century the stage presented IVarley Hunt, Esq., John Claflin, Jr., Esq., Xewcll Nelson, Esq , Col. Ariel Bragg, Cf)l. Benjrunin Godfiey and his son William, Col. Sullivan Sumner, Capt. Clark Ellis, Maj. Clark Sumner, Capt. Henry Nelson, Hon. Lee Claflin, &c. Since then, down to the present time, the following actors have been more or less conspicuous: — Hiram Hunt, Charles F. Chapin, Aaron Claflin, Aaron C. Mayhew, Sylvester Dean, Alfred Bragg, Amlrew J. Sumner, .Tames II. Barker, Edwin Battles, Winslow Battles, George W. Stacy, Dr. A. A. Cook, Isaac Davenport, Obed Daniels, John S. Scammell, Leander Hol- broipk, James R. Davis, Zibeon C. Field, Geo. B. Blake. Ilermon II. Bowers, Thomas G. Kent, George G. Parker, George Draper, William F. Draper, LOCAL INDUSTRIES. 95 Lewis Fiiles, Henry E. Falcs, autl a host of others whom it is hardly worth while to specify in a category of mere names without designation of rank, title, office or service. CHAPTER IV. INDUSTRIAL AND BUSINESS INTERESTS VALUABLE BUILDINGS FACTORIES AND MILLS NEWSPAPERS JIAP OF THE TOWN DIRECTORIES TOWN HISTORY. The present general status of the town in respect to its more important interests, activities, mechanical inventions, productive industries, &c., must close this sketch. There are fcAV farms and homesteads in Milford that have come down in the line of family inheritance to the fourth generation — perhaps lialf a dozen. Real estate has been frequently changing owners from the era of first settlement to the present hour. The town seems to have heen good both for emigration and immigration. There is nothing worth specification in these sentences concerning its agriculture. It is a manufacturing and mechanical community. In the statistics already given, enough has been said of its pre- dominant manufacture, that of boots, shoes, &c. It will be understood that this business is more or less vigorously pursued by numerous individuals and copartnerships of employers, and a corresponding host of employes. Several other kinds of business establishments, important in their place, may also be passed over in present silence. There are some, however, which deserve special attention. What we call iNIilford Centre is of course the principal locality both of jxtpnlation and business. Its factories, shops, blocks, &c., afford large accom- modations. Of blocks, distinctively so styled, and kindred buildings, there are the following:— Arcade Block, Nos. 95 to 101 Main Street; Bank Block, Main Street; Bay State Clock, Nos. 102 to 108 Main Street; Blunt's Block, corner Franklin Street; Central Building, No. 86 Main Street; Church Block, Nos. 43, 45, 47, 49 Main Street; Exchange Block, Main, corner Exchange Street; Gle;ison's Building, School, corner of Spruce Street; Grant Block, No. 174 Main Street; Hay ward's Exchange, Nos. 137, 139, 141 Main Street; Irving Block, Nos. 143, 145, 147 Main Street; JcfTcrson Block, Nos. 90, 92, 94, 9G ^lain Street; Lincoln Block, School, corner of Pine Street; Mechanics' Block, Nos. 138, 140, 142 Main Street; Phffinix Building, Nos. 3, 5, 7 Main Street; Thayer's Block, Main Street; Union Block, Nos. 73, 75, 77, 79 Main Street; and Washington Block, Nos. 150, 152 Main Street. Among the most remarkable establishments in the Centre is that of Esta- brook, Wires & Co. for the manufacture of their "clinching screws," and vari- 96 TOWN OF MILFORD. 0119 other useful nrliclcs. Competent judges have prouonnceil tlic whole unique and nnrivallod in general and detail. Location, Spring Street, opposite Front Street. The design of this patent clinching screw is to fasten boot and shoe soles, which it docs to perfection. These enterprising mannfactnrcrs invented and jiatented their screw some years ago, and for awhile executed their work chiefly by hand. But such was the demand created by its extraor- dinary merits as fast as known, that they soon applied their inventive geoins to the prodnctlon of tiie machinery necessary to more rapid execution. They perfected such machinery and can now exhibit to the admiration of behoitl- ers a scries of automatic workers that not only demonstrate their now superior mechanical ingcnuit3% but enal)le them to till promptly their constantly multiplying orders from ail parts of the country. The usual average of each mathine is one luindrcd and fifty screws per minute, with the capability of doubling that lunubcr if desired. The superior excellence of these screws has rendered their nianufa<;tnre a triumphant success. Even the AVar Department of the United States, having thoroughly tested them, endorses and patronizes them. Besides this leading production of their establishment, Messrs. Esta- brook & AVires turn out first-rate crimi)ing-l)rakcs, forms, sinks, tables, sticks and steels, seam-rubl)er legs, boot and shoo trees, tiirning-jicks, &c. ; all in considerable quantities, and bearing the warranty stamp of their names. The driving force for their machinery is a steam-engine of thirty-five horse power; and all their buildings and appliances are in prime condition. There is another rather notable establishment in the same neighborhood — Greene Brothers' heel-factory. It belongs to Messrs. George M. & Kandall 15. Greene. They manufacture boot and shoe heels, and arc said to have the largest concern of this kind in the United States. These heels are made of ui)prr-Icather remnants, purchased wherever obtainable, and brought in immense quantities by railroad cars to their factory doors. They turn out 1,500,000 pairs of heels annuall}'. By ingenious processes, they form these heels, extract from them all their greasy substance, ami utilize, in one way or another, all the scrap leather that comes into their possession. The most worthless remains are used as fuel to feed their engines. They find an ample maikot in Boston, Lynn, and numerous boot and shoe towns for all the liech they can manufacture. Li two recent months they sold to soap and candle makers no loss than 112,000 pounds of their extracted grease — a mere incidental of their operations. They began business in 18G7 wilh four employes, and have uow one hundred. But most remarkable in this category are the estal)lishments at Ilopedale. This bright and beautiful village is situated a mile and a half westerly from the town centre on Mill River, toward the frontier of Mcndon. In its whole length and breadth it must have nearly one hundred dwelling-houses and six hundrid inhabitants. It was founded in 1842 by the Ilopedale Conuuunily, grew thriftily till that community relinquished its unitary arrangements in 1850, 'IK^ ■yilJilJUlliiBi ^ 'liiaiiiiii mm mm^ 2^Mf^^^^- ESTABnOOK, WIRES & CO's rACTOIlY, MILFOKD, MASS, IkHLLS AND FACTORIES. 97 ami still more thriftily fioiii that time 1o tlin prcsoiit. From (he bcpriuniiig its leading people have (listiiigiiishcd themselves more ami more Ijy mechanical genins and manufacturing enterprise. It has been a seminary of inventors, and may now, without extravagance, be called a luiniatnre university of ingenious patent-lore. By invention and purchase, it can exhibit quite a museum of mechanical contrivances for the entertainment of the curious visitor. And its manufactures are correspondingly efliiient and productive. It would require si considerable volume, elaborated by a master's hand, to do justice to the inven- tions, productions and l)usines3 enterprise of this little village. They can only be indicated in this synoptical article. Here are four strong firms operating, besides their minor subsidiaries, all more or less connected in their pecuniary interests, and co-operating in their industrial results. These firms are : 1. George Draper & Sons, whose special province includes a host of valuable im- provements in cotton and woolen machinery, such as temples, sawyer-spindles, Draper's filling-spinners, double spinning-rings, steps and bolsters, patent motions for looms, Thompson oil-cans, shuttle-guides, &c., &c. 2. The Ilopedulo Machine Company, m'uiuf^icturers of improvements in cotton nv.ichin- cry, special machinists' tools, patent warpers, spoolers with patent steps and bolsters, &c., &c. ; George Draper, president; William F. Draper, treasurer; Joseph B. Bancroft, superintendent. 3. Dutcher Temple C.tmpany, sole manufacturers of Dutcher's patent temples, Kayser's ))atent temples, Jlnrk- land's carpet temples, &c., &,c. ; George Draper, president; F. J. Dutcher, treasurer and secretary, and W. AY. Dutcher, agent. 4. The Ilopedalc Furnace Compau}-, whose business is to manufacture and furnish to order iron castings of all descriptions. The Ilopedale Machine Compau}' occupies the most northerly of (he water- privileges, and has a principal shop two hundred and twenty feet in length b\' sixty-six in width, and three stories in height. Its machinery' is driven by a motor force, derived from a LefTel turl)ine-wheel, and, when scarcity of water I'cquires it, by a steam-engine of fifty horse-power. The next privilege below is occupied by the Dutcher Temple Company and its adjuncts with ample build- ings, water and steam power, and many ingenious contrivances (some of them wonderfully constructed) to facilitate its operations. The foundry, with all its appurtenances, stands closely adjacent on the west side of the canal, and the ring-shop only a few feet south of the temple-shop. Nearly a mile further south is another valuable privilege, with a capacious shop, chiefly devoted (o the elaboration of the famous Saw^-er spindle, owned by Dea. A. A. Wcstcott, and managed in connection with the interests of George Draper & Sons. The dams, ponds, canals, anti-fire apparatus, offices, su|iplemen(ary shops, out- liuildings and manifold conveniences up and down the river can bo appreciated only by judicious observers. A vast majority of the cotton-mills in (he United States, and many woolen- mills, have adopted these Ilopedale improvenu'nts to a greater or less extent, VOL. II.— 13 98 TOWN OF JillLFORD. .•111(1 their proprietors arc reaping thercfi'oni a ricli harvest of profits. Foremost among them arc the temple, Sawyer spindle and the adjustable s|)iiiuing-riugs — three notable [latents. The temples are in universal use in the United States, Mexico, South America, and, to a considerable extent, in Europe. Leading mainiCactnrers have demonstrated to their satisfaction that the spindle yields an enormous saving in power, labor, cost, &c. The number of these spindles already introduced and in use is over 1,200,000. The rings, too, have proved a great success. The number of these furnished and in satisfoctory use exceeds 1,500,000. But the multitude of less conspicuous articles sent forth from these Ilopedale laboratories are distributed far and wide over the countrj', and roll up a formidable aggregate of mechanical production, usefulness and weallh. In good times all these establishments together employ nearly three hundred and fifty hands, meet a monthly pay-roll of $12,000, and make aggre- gate sales to the amount of more than $500,000 per annum. The different kinds of machines and appliances manufactured here, with and without patent securi- ties, must number at least one hundred. In closing this sketch it seems proper to mention a few facts concerning the ministrations of the printing-press to joubiic intelligence in Milford and its general vicinity. The first printing-office opened in town was started by Ballon & Stacy in the winter of 1830-31, in William GodfiYw's row of shops and sheds on the west side of the Parish Common. On the 1st of January, 1831, a weekly religions paper was issued from that oflice, entitled " Tho Independent Messenger." The office and paper were removed in the following spring to Mendon. In 1843 the Hopedale Community opened their printing- office at Hopedale, which executed job work, and issued a semi-monthly paper called ''The Practical Christian." This was published till the year 18G0, and then discontinued. Since then the office has issued numerous smaller publica- tions in pamphlet and tract form, and done more or less j )b work. It is how owned and operated in the village by Bryan J. Butts. In 184G George W. Stacy established his printing-office in the Centre, and, with his son, has had a successful run of business ever since. Besides the usual variety of j )b work, he has frequently issued pamphlets from his press, and public documents. He has long ke[)t a book and stationery store in connection with his office. " The j\Iilford Journal " was started in 1850 from a fresh printing establishment, and is now about completing its 29th year. It has passed through the publishing and editorial management of several successive owners, steadily increasing in power and influence down to the present time. Its present proprietors and editors are J. I. C. Cook, W. II. Cook and George G. Cook — the latter two sons of the first-named. The iirm is st^ded Cook & Sons. They have an ample, well-furnished printing-office, and execute a large amount of business. There was at one time a short-lived competitor of the "Journal" establish- ment, with an office and paper. Since then it has had no rival, and flourished alone. It is published weekly at two dollars per annum. TOWN mSTORY. 99 The town has been surveyed by authority several times since its incorpora- tion, and phins duly recorded. The first pnlilished map was elaborated by Newell Nelson in 1829, under the patronage of Poariey Hunt, Esq., who had some hundreds of copies lithographed. This was revised, improved and rc- j)ublished in 1843 by Isaac Davenport, Esq. One or two more recent maps have been executed and laid before the public. Another more accurate one is needed, and will probably be forthcoming. Five directories have been published for the convenience of the inhabitants. The first was prepared and issued in 1856 by A. D. Sargcant ; the second by C. C. Drew in 1869; the third l)y Grecnough, Jones & Co. in 1872; the fourth by the same company in 1875; and the fifth by Grecnough & Co. in 1878. The town initiated measures and commenced making appropriations, two or three years ago, for the preparation of a suitable history, to bo in readiness for l)iil)lication on or before its centenary in April, 1880. It ccmfided the work to the author of this sketch, which is a condensed abstract of its properly historic contents. It will contain a genealogical register, with numerous biographical notices, not herein called for. It is in process of completion, and, if no un- toward events intervene, will be ready for the press before next April. It will probably be a volume of eight hundred pages, fair-sized octavo, with more or less attractive illustrations. In hope that the foregoing will answer the reason- able expectations of all parties at present interested, it is respectfully submitted to the public. 100 TOWN OF MILLBURY. M I L L B U R Y BY GEORGE A. STOCKWELL, A M. CHAPTER I. LOCATION AND TOPOGnAPHY — INCOUPORATIO-V AND GPvOWTn — ECCLESIASTICAL IILSTOUY. In tlio fertile vallc}- of tlic Bluckstone, ami on the adjacent liills, is the thriving town of Millbiny, distant from Worcester six miles, and fVom Boston forty-five. Its northern boundary forms a part of the southern limit of Worcester; Auburn and Oxford are neighbors ou the west ; Sutton, its parent, lies on the south-oast; and Grafton borders it ou the cast. The natural sccuery of Miilbury is well diversified, and presents many pic- turesque featui'es. The surface is irregular and hilly, but not so marked in this respect as that of adjoining towns. East and west, the hind rises gradu- ally from the banks of the Blackstoue to eminences of considerable height. To one looking from the highlands of Worcester, the town of Miilbury appears to lie in a cradle of hills, — to bo shut in, east, west and south, by natural bul- warks of protection, and fuither progress of the Blackstoue seems impossible. No town has a more abundant or better improved water-suppl}", and to this is due the fact that Milll)ury, as a manufacturing village, has few equals in the county. The well-known and much-used Blackstoue rises in the south- western partof tlK! town, in what is called R-imshorn Pond, and flows northerly through the tei'ritory of the adjoining town of Auburn into that of Worcester, where it takes an easterly course, and, again turning, is joined by Mill Brook, and flows southerly to the place of its birth, which it no sooner enters than it begins to contend with various turbines, and becomes an all-sufBcient motor. On the western border of the town is Singlclary Pond, covering about six hundred acres. The greater part of this is in Sulton, but its outlet, called Singletary stream, flows south-easterly through Miilbury, and, I)oforc joining the Blackstoue, furnishes power for several large mills. Dorothea Pond, in the eastern part of the town, is a valuable and attractive sheet of water. Ou the stream flowing from it, called Dorothea Pond Brook, whiih also joins the Blackstoue, various mechanical pursuits are in progress. ORIGIN OF THE TOAVN. 101 The commercial centre of Millhury is ou tlie left bank of the Clackstone, nnd is composed of Armory and Goodell villages, formerly so called. The streets are wide, and, for the greater part, regularly laid out and well shaded. Here are all the church edifices save one, high school, bank, post-olBce, stores, manufactories of different kinds, railway stations, and many handsome resi- dences. One mile west of the centre is Bramanville, named in honor of Dr. Lramau, an early settler, irregularly built on the rocks and in the steep places along the course of Singlrtary stream. The upper or western part was for- merly called Singletary Village, from John Singletary, whose mill was the first in this part of the town ; and the lower or eastern part Burbankville, for here Gen. Caleb Burbank built, owned and operated a large paper-mill. The rise and growth of this village are consequent upon the occupation of the different water-privileges on the Singletary. It contains twelve hundred inhabitants. The house of worship of the First Congregational Society is in this part of the town ; also large manufactories of cotton and woolen fabrics, stores and a i)ul)lic house. Further west, on the highlands, is AVest Millbury, early named, and now often called "Grass Hill," from the exceeding richness of the verdure. Before the town was settled, owners of cattle, living in the vicinity of Boston, came to this place early in the spring to burn over the cleared tracts, that thei'c might l>e an increased growth of grass for their herds driven thither later in the season. There is a post-office here, and formerly the church-edifice of the West Millbury Congregational Society was in this village ; also, earlier, various mechanical industries received the attention of the inhabitants, but, at the present day, the leading pursuit is agriculture, to the prosecution of which the lands hereabouts are well adapted. Park Hill in the eastern part of the town, and Highlantl Hill to the south of it, are eligible and commanding sights, and tlie dwellers thereon till the soil, and are rewarded l)y plentiful harvests. The town of Millbury had its origin in the north parish of Sutton. In 1742, the inhabitants living in the northern part of Sutton petitioned the General Court, through Capt. Robert Goddard, Solomon Holman, and Jeremiah Buck- man, to be erected into a separate precinct. The committee api)ointed by the General Court to visit Sutton and view the premises, reported in f.ivor of the separation, and on Oct. 28, 1743, the report of the committee was concurred in by the Court, and the northern part of Sutton was known as the North Parish of that town. The first legal meeting of the inhabitants of this parish was held at the house of Richard Singletary, which stood near the outlet of Crooked, now Singletary Pond, ou Dec. 26, 1743, of which meeting Capt. Timothy Carter was moderator, and, of the parish, Robert Goddard was chosen clerk. The subsequent meetings of (he parish were held at the house of Singletary until May 30, 1746, when the house of worship, erected on what is now called the "Old Common," and which was designed to be the centre of the town, was so near completion that meetings of the parish, both religious and secular, could be held there. 102 TOAVX OF MILLBURY. Ou June 3, 1813, while the secoud war with Eugland was in progress, and after much opposition and sectional strife, the North Parish of Sutton was incorporated as the town of ^lillhury, and vested with all the powers, privi- leges and immunities enjoyed by anv town in the Commonwealth. The boun- daries of the new town were coincident with those of the parish. The call for the iirst town meeting was addressed to Aaron Pierce, justice of the peace, and was endorsed by Caleb Burbank, Samuel Bixbec, Azor Phelps, Jacob Chamberlain, Solomon Marble, Asa Waters. W. Jonathan Trask, Josiah S. Prenlicc, Simeon Waters, and Stephen Bhinchard. In pursuance of this call, the inhabitants of Millbury assembled in town meeting for the first time, on July 1, 1818, and elected the following officers: Moderator, Azor Phelps; clerk, Aaron Pierce; selectmen, Asa Goodell, Azor Phelps, Solomon j\Iarble, Keuben Barton, Jr., James Greenwood; treasurer, Samuel Waters; assessors, Aaron Pierce, Simeon Waters, Jonathan Grout ; collector and constable, Alfred Hood ; surveyors of highwa3's, Amasa Wood, Curtis Searls, Jonathan ^luzzy, Moses Brigham, Jonas Gale, Samuel Waters, Josiah S. Prentice, Josiah Brown, Joel Wesson ; tything-man, Jonathan Eichardson. At the time Millbury took its i)lace among the municipalities of the Commonwealth it contained about one hundred and sixty families, and a jjopulation of less than five hundred. At what is now the centre of the town there were, at its incorporation, only twelve or thirteen houses, seven or eight on the east side of the Blackstone, along the Coimly Road, now the Main Street, and three or four on the west side, below or south of Singletary stream. The only mills on the Blackstone in operation then were the Old Armory and a grist-mill a few rods south of it. On Singletary stream there were manu- factories of different kinds, of which an account will be given elsewhere. During the ten years that followed incorporation the town changed very little, either with respect to the number of inhabitants or commercial enter- prise. In 1824 the prospect of better communication with the seaboard by means of the Blackstone Canal caused the erection of new buildings and the making of improvements. The canal was opened to the public in Millbury in 1828, and the first boat passed through on October 6 of that year. Although much was expected of this new enterprise, little was realized, and the inhabi- tants of the town of Millbury, and possibly those of other towns who were financially interested in the canal scheme, had cause to wish that it had remained dormant in the minds of those who projected it. The era of growth and increase, however, had begun, and with or without the aid of canals, the town of Millbiny was destined to become what it has. The activity begun iu 182-4 was continued until 1830, when it received new impetus, and between that time and 1840, during which a branch of the Boston and Worcester Railroad was ojiened to the town, the greater number of the mills now in operation, and some that are not, were built. Again, in 1846, when the Providence and Worcester Railroad Company began operations, CHURCH HISTORY. 103 greater energy was infused into the spirit of improvement and enlci-piisc, and from that time to the present MilUmry has gr.idnally advanced until it has become one of the larger manufacturing communilios In Worcester County. As the ecclesiastical history of Milll)ury l)egan \)vioy to the date of its incor- poration as a town, and as it was for several years thereafter connected with ils civil history, ils place is here. On Dec. 13, 1744, twenty persons asked to ha dismissed from the mother church in Sutton. This was granted, but as these persons did not within the year following form themselves into a distinct society, the Sutton church called Ihem to an account, fearing that they Avcro walking disorderly, and required them to renew their covenant. On Jan. 17, 17-J5, a meeting was held "to seek earnestly to God for direction in calling and settling a Gospel minister in the parish," and on Jlarch 1(>, 1747, .a call was given James Wellnian. It was voted to give him, "as an encouragement to setclc among us, £.jUO in old tenor, as a settlement, and £250 of like tenor as a yearly salary." The call and terms met the approval and acceptance of Mr. Wellman. The complete organization of the church was not effected until Sept. 10, 1747, when, as the records of the Sutton church show, fifty-seven persons were dismissed to form the Second Church in Sutton, now the First Chiu-ch in Mill- bury. The ucw society adopted the Cambridge Platform for its confession of faith, its covenant, and rules of church goveinment. This platform admitted ruling ciders as a distinct class of church officers. This church, however, was never Presbyterian. For many j'cars it had its ruling elders, but has always adhered to the " pure and unmixed idea of a Congregational church, that equality and disciplinary power arc inherent in its members." Mr. Wellman, the first pastor, was ordained on Oct. 7, 1747, and remained fourteen 3cars. At the conclusion of his farewell address "he dismissed yo chiu'ch with a blessing (not ye blessing whearwith Moses yo man of Gotl blessed the children of Israel) but something like it." Mr. Wellman was considered as one well instructed in the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, and as having adorned, not forfeited his ministerial character. The second pastor of this churcli, Ebcnczcr Chaplin, was ordained on Nov. 14, 1764. On Feb. 4, 17G8, it was voted "to sing one of Dr. Watts' hymns at j'C communion, if it would uot be grievous to any of the I)rethcren." On Feb. 28, 1779, a vote was passed to the effect that all 3'outh under the authority of parents and masters of the congregation should be catechised four tinies a year by the pastor. The parish began to I)uild its house of M'orshi[) earl}' in the year 1711, but it was not completed for several years. This edifice stood upon the "ohl common," called by some of the inhabitants "Mount Zion, whither the tribes went up to worship." The old common is a mile and a half uorth-west of tho present business centre, and town affairs were transacted there until 1836. This church building had neither belfry uor steeple, aud, from its resembiauco 104 TOWN OF MILLBURY. to a ham, was called the "Lord's Barn." The erection of a second church edifice was l)cgun in 1802. Its dimensions were tifty l)y tifty-two feet, and its site was that of the former structure, which was moved a few rods and converted into a public house. The new edifice was dedicated on Nov. 27, 1804. As early as 1832 it was proposed to remove the church to Bramanville, where it now stands. This caused a division in the society, and the matter Avas left to the decision of referees, who decided that all would be benefited by its removal, but that "only those who favored the change should pay the expence." Accordingl}', in the fall of 1835 the structure was demolished and rebuilt, and rc-dedicated on Jan. 14, 1836. In 1866 the edifice was remodeled as to its interior, and dedicated again on March 11, 1866. Pastors: James Wellman, ordained on Oct. 7, 1747, dismissed on July 22, 1760; Ebenczer Chajjlin, ordained on Nov. 14, 1761, dismissed on March 22, 1792; Joseph Goffe, ordained on Sept. 10, 1704, dismissed on Dec. 9, 1830; Osgood Ilerrick, ordained on Dec. 9, 1830, died on March 16, 1837 ; Nathaniel Beach, ordained ou Nov. 22, 1837, dismissed on May 11, 1857 ; Edmund Y. Garrette, installed on Sept. 30, 1857, dismissed on Nov. 3, 1869. George A. Putnam, the present pastor, began his service on April 11, 1872. The Second Congregational Church, an ofl'spring of the first church, was organized on Aug. 23, 1827, as the "First Presbyterian Church in Millbury." At a church meeting hold on July 5, 1827, a petition, signed by forty members of the mother church, was presented, asking to be dismissed for the purpose of forming a Presbyterian church in that part of the town known as Armory Village — the present centre. The petition was granted and the church formed. The Presbyterian polity was chosen to avoid the supposed difliculty of calling a council which would recommend the instituting of another Congregational church in the town. Seven years after, iu 1834, this society changed its polity and name, and has since been known as the Second Congregational Church in Millbury. The house of worship was built iu 1828. In 1862 a parsonage was secured, and occupied in September of the same year. Pastors: George W. Campbell, installed on Jan. 13, 1830, dismissed in 1833 ; "William A. Larned, afterwards professor in Yale College, ordained on May 7, 1834, dismissed on Oct. 19, 1835; Samuel G. Buck- ingham, D. D., ordained on May 24, 1837, dismissed on May 3, 1847; Levorett Griggs, D. D., installed on Sept. 22, 1847, dismissed on Jan. 9, 1856 ; Lewis Jessup, installed on April 24, 1856, dismissed on March 29, 1860; Charles II. Pcirce, installed on Oct. 22, 1862, died on Oct. 5, 1865; Stacy Fowler, installed on Dec. 6, 1866, dismissed in February-, 1878; J. L. Ewell, the present pastor, was installed on April 16, 1878. The Methodist Episcopal Church of ^lillbury bad its origin in 1822, when the first class was formed by "William Archer, a local preacher from England, who dwelt here. This class was connected with the Northbridgc and Milford circuit, and, although not permanent, was served and nourished In- the clergy- EECEXT SOCIETIES. 105 men who traveled on this circuit. In jNIarch, 1833, a parish organization was effected, and in 1840 the present house of worship was erected. Pastors: Merritt P. Alderman, 1833 ; Thomas W. Tucker, 183G ; Warcham L. Camp- bell, 1837 ; William P. White, 1810; Lorenzo R. Thayer, 1841 ; John Kopcr, 1842 ; E. W. J.ackson, 1843 ; Phineas Crandall, 1844 ; John F. Peltee, 1845 ; George W. Bates, 1847; Charles W. Ainsworth, 1848; Wdliam A. Braman, 1850; Willard Smith, 1852; John Ptickets, 1854; Ichabod Marcy, 1855; B. F. Green, M. D., 1857; Joseph Scott, 1859; Solomon Chapin, 18G1 ; Daniel Atkins, 18G2; N. II. Martin, 18G1; Edwin S. Snow, 18GG ; T. B. Treadwell, 1869; S. A. Fuller, 1870; W. R, Tisdalc, 1871 ; AVilliam A. Pentecost, A. O. Hamilton, W. A. Hatch. The present pastor is F. T. George. The Baptist Church in Millbury was formed on Dec. IG, 1836, at the house of Abijah Gleason in West Millbury. For a j'car or more services were held "from house to house," and subsequently in the house, of the West Millbury Congregational Societ3\ In 1841 the Baptists removed to Armory Village, and for nearly tw'enty-iivc years occupied the Acadeai}- building. A house of worship was erected in 1864, and dedicated on March 22, 1865. Pastors: Ilcrvcy Fitts, 1841 to 1843; James Upham, 1843 to 1845; S. J. Bronson, 1846 to 1853 ; C. T. Tucker, 1854 to 1857 ; S. A. Thomas, 1858 to 186 1 ; C. F. Nicholson, 1862 to 18G4 ; Jonathan E. Brown, 1864 to 1868; C. A. Skinner, 1869 to 1870; S. J. Bronson, 1870 to 1874; G. B. Gow, 1874 to the present time. The Congregational Church in West Millbury was organized on May 23, 1837. Some of the inhabitants, members of the First Church, living in the western part of the town, "displeased with the pulling down of the house of God, that bad been consecrated to the service of the Redeemer's kingvlom, thus rendering desolate the sacred spot where their fathers had worshipped," withdrew from the parent church, and, by a council called for the purpose, organized the West Millbury Congregational Societj'. Twenty-nine members were received from the older church, and sixteen on profession of faith. This church Avas under the ministerial care of Caleb B. Elliot for two years after organization, and on July 8, 1840, Sidney Ilolman, the first and last settled pastor, was installed, and remained till June 11, 1851. This society disbanded on Dec. 28, 1857. A Catholic church was erected in Jlillbur}' in ISS'O. Prior to that, services were he'd in the town hall. James Fitton of Worcester was the first minister, and was succeeded by Matthew Gibson, A. L'Evequc, E. J. Sheridan, and J. J. Power. In 1869, this mission was made a sepanite parish, andM. J. Dohcrt}', the present head, placed in charge. 106 TOWN OF IMILLBUEY. CHAPTER II. EARLY MANUFACTURES AND PKESKNT INDUSTRIES IMPROVEMENT OF PRIVI- LEGES ON THE BLACKSTONE AND SINGLETARY. The town of MilUinry, as its name signifies, is a borongli of mills. At its incorporation, some of the privileges on the Blackstone and Singletary were improved ; hut the founders of the town nuist have foreseen that the name would he more appropriate later in its histoiy. Horace Waters, the oldest manufacturer now living in Millbury, was born Aug. 28, 1799. Remaining at home during his minority, he assisted his father, Samnel Waters, in building the oldest factory now standing in town, save one, known as the Cordis Mills.* In 1831, he became connected with the firm of Waters & Goodell in the manufiicture of broadcloths. This firm was among the first to make broadcloths, and produced some of the finest goods made in the country nndcr diliiculties which are now happily unknown. Long journe3's were necessary in order to purchase wool from sections where as yet the whis- tle of the locomotive or the dick of the telcgrapli had never been heard, and where the only means of transportation was I)y horses and oxen. In those days, the dyer was obliged to cut his own woods, and the mechanic had not only to build his own machinery, but, like the Yankee boy, "make the machine which makes it." Hostile legislation in the year 1842 checked the production of this class of goods in this country, which has never been revived to any extent. In 1849, the firm of Waters & Goodell was dissolved, and in 1856 Mr. Waters became associated with the late Hon. Ilosea Crane, forming the firm of Crane cS; Waters, of which ho is now the senior partner. In this con- nection, he has had a successful business career of twenty-three years in the manufacture of knit-goods in the same mill formerly occupied by Waters & Goodell, in which place he has now been in active business nearly a half cen- tury, with little interruption. At dillcrent times during this long life, he has been directly or indirectly connected with many of the other mills in town, and has held many places of trust and responsiI)ility, having well earned the respect and esteem in which ho is held by his fellow-townsmen and business acquaintance. The first mill in what is now the territoiy of Millbury was built on Single- tary stream, near the outlet of Crooked Pond, now called Singletary Pond, on the site of the Wheeler Cotton ISIiils, by John Singletaiy, about the year 1720, who bought the land of Eiienczer Daggett, to whom it was given on con- dition that he should "keep a grist-mill for the use of the town." A saw-mill was added, and the two were in operation many years after the Revolution. * Tbo armory building of Asa Waters, uow used as a woolen factory, was built in le'08, soino ten or twelve years before the Cordis Mill, referred to. I IMILLS AND FACTORIES. 107 On the site of these mills was erected a wooleii-factoiy operated by the Sin- glctaiy Manufacturing Company, and afterwards l)y Frank and Henry Tenney and Dea. Mills. They were succeeded by Randall & Ilolmau, they by Jenks & Farnum, and they by Farnum & Wheeler. J. D. Wheeler then became solo owner, and in 1867 the present company was incorporated as the "Wheeler Cotton Mills." Four thousand spindles and sixty operatives are employed, and ninety-five thousand yards of sheeting a month arc produced. In this village, formerly called Singletary Village, was a scythe-shop owned by Samuel Marble, who operated a similar manufiictory on the site of the present Brierly Mills. Afterwards, a woolen and cotton mill was built and operated by AVoodard & Gorton. They were succeeded by Jonathan A. Pope, and he was followed by James Brierly & Co. Mr. Pope was again in possession, and after him came Emerson & Brierly. Crane & Waters arc the present owners, but not operators. Yarn is now made in this mill, and one hundred and fifty thousand pounds per month are produced. Below, on the same stream, — the Singletary, — is a woolen-mill owned and operated by M. A. Lapham of Worcester. This mill occupies the site of the paper-mill of Abijah Burbank, which was in operation in 1777. Its erection was suggested by the following resolution passed in convention of the committees of correspondence and delegates from the towns in Worcester County : — " Resolved, That the erection of a paper-mill in this conntj- would be of great public advantage, and, if anj^ person or persons will undertake the erection of such a mill and the manufacture of paper, that it be recommended to the people of the county to encourage the undertaking b}' generous contributions and subscriptions." This convention was held on Aug. 9, 1774, and adjourned from time to time, holding it last meeting on May 31, 1775. This was the first paper-mill in the county, and the fourth or fifth in Massa- chusetts. Its capacity was thirty reams a week, and the mill was the main dependence of printing-offices in Worcester County, particularly that of Isaiah Thomas in AVorcester. Abijah Burbank was succeeded by his son, afterwards called Gen. Caleb Burbank, who improved the property and increased the production of the mill. At one time. Gen. Burbank was one of the more influential as well as one of the wealthier manufacturers in Worcester County. He i)ublished the various kinds of school-books then in use, Watts's and other hymn and tunc books. The old iia[)er-mill was in operation until 1864, when the property was sold to the present owner by F. II. Richmond, and new buildings erected, which were burned in 1876, and immediately rebuilt. A short distance below the Lapham Mill is what is known as the Emerson Mill, built by Braman & Benedict. On the site of this mill w.as formerly a clothier's f.ictory, where cloth made by hand was dressed, operated by Simeon "Waters. Jonathan A. Pope was at one time interested in the present mill. After Pope came Smith & Pratt, and they were followed by Emerson & Brierly, the Braman Cotton Mill Company, and by the present owners, J. M. 108 TOWN OF MILLBURY. Iklasoii & Co. of Providence, R. I. This mill has not been in operation for several years. Dclow the Emerson mill was formerly a liusecd oil factory in active operation several j'ears ago. Below the site of this is the large and handsome mill- strncturc of Nelson Walling. A machine-shop built and operated by John Leland in 1836 occupied the site of this mill. The property came into the possession of the Oxford Bank in 1850, and in 18.54 the present owner pur- chased it. Enlargement and impri)vcmont have made this the best and largest mill on the Singlotary stream. It contains seven sets of forty-eiglit inch cards ; one hundred and fifteen operatives are emplo3'cd, and the annu-d prod- uct of lancy cassimeres amounts to three hundred and twenty thousand yards. Below the Walling manufactory is the hosiery-mill of Crane & AVaters. The dam and a small mill on this site were built by the Longley Brothers in 1825, who, however, did not complete the work. Waters & Goodell were owners in 1831. In 1844, Horace Waters was added to the firm, and in 1849 Ilosea Crane, and the firm-name is now Crane & Waters. Ten sets of cards are in use in this mill, one hundred and fifty workmen are employed, and goods valued at two hundred and fifty thousand dollars are produced annually. The mill has been much enlarged and improved. Next below the last-named privilege is the Rhodes ^lill. owned and operated by John Rhodes. This mill was built in 1828 by Samuel Waters, who, with others, supplied it with cotton machinery and made thread. Afterwards Jonathan A. Pope occupied it for a manufactory of print goods. A. J. Hovey was the next operator; and between 1845 and 1850, Rhodes & Merry were proprietors. Two thousand throe hundred spindles are in use, thirty opera- tives arc employed, and seventeen thousand pounds of cotton warp are pro- duced monthly. The foregoing comprise all the privileges occupied on the Singletary stream. The old powder-mill and the gun factories, formerly on the Smglctary, and the armory on the Blackstone will be noticed elsewhere. The first mill-site on the Blackstone, in Millbury, is that of the Bm-ling Mills, situated in the northern part of the town on the old Blackstone Canal. At the abandonment of the canal scheme, Asa Waters secured the privilege and built the dam. Michael Cougan built a part of the present mill in 1850, and for a short time was operator. II. II. Chamberlin was associated with Cougan and afterwards the firm-name was Chamberlin & Co. The property is now owned and operated by W. II. Harrington of Worcester. Previous to 18G4 the mill contained four sets of machinery. Eight sets are now in opera- tion, one hundred and fifty operatives are employed, and eighteen thousand yards of French beaver-cloth produced monthly. South of the Burling Mills on the Blackstone are the sash and blind works of C. D. Morse. This privilege was founded by Asa Waters and has furnished power for various manufactories. The present owner and opcratoi, C. D. MANUFACTURES. 109 ]\Iorse, employs forty-fivo workmen, aud the product amounts to one hundred thousand dollars annuall}'. Just below the confluence of the Singlctary and Blackstone, near the centre of the town, on the site of the armory building, are the Atlanta Mills, owned and opci-ated by William H. Harrington & Co. Four sets of machinery are in use, fifty operatives are employed, and the product is fifteen thousand yards of woolen cloth per month. Immediately below the Atlanta Mills are the Millbury cotton-mills, owned and operated by Benjamin Flagg. This mill was built in 1847, by Asa FI. Waters & Co., and occupies the site of a grist-mill erected in about the year 1800. The present owner came into possession in 18G7. The operatives iu this mill number one hundred and twenty-five ; thirty thousand yards of print cloths made per week. Further down on the Blackstone is the Cordis Mill. The dam and canals were built by Asa Waters, who, in 1821, by deed, dated Nov. 26, conveyed the privilege to Asa, Orra and John Goodell. Near the present mill on the site of the dye-house was, previous to 1820, a rolling-mill, in which nails without heads were made. The Goodells were known as the Goodall Manufacturing Company, and with the assistance of Brown & Tilcston, erected a part of the pi;escnl mill and made broadcloth. They were succeeded by the Brown iManufacturins; Com- pany. The Cordis Company was in possession till 18G4, when John S. Wright, John II. Wright and Ebeu Wright became owners. In July, 1875, the present company was incorporated under the name of the " Cordis Mills." This mill is a fine brick structure and the largest in Millbury. It contains six thousand five hundred spindles ; one hundred and thirty-five operatives are employed, and one hundred and thirty thousand yards of ticking arc produced per month. The next and last privilege on the Blackstone iu Millbury is occupied by Peter Simpson's satinet-mill. This was built, 1830, by Shcpard & Ridgcwa}'. Park & AVrightwere owners at one time: .as were also, later. Wood & Kay, and Mcrriam & Simpson. Fort}'-five hundred yards are made a month, and seven- ty five operatives are employed. On the stream from Dorothea Pond, is the edge-tool manufactory of Buck Brothers. This industry was established in the city of AVorccster in 1853, and removed to JNIitlbury in 1861. In 1868, the present factory l)uilding, — the finest structure in town, — was erected. The company make chisels and various other edge-tools, and have won a world-wide reputation. Fifty work- men arc employed, and the annual product of this industry is valued at one hundred and twenty thousand dollars. Other industries, less in extent, occupy the attention of many of the inhabi- tants. There is a smelting furnace, a carriage manufactory, one of boxes and one of whips. Some of the earlier settlers have continued to the present lime, the business begun soon after the incorporation of the town. Nathaniel God- no TO\TS OF JnLLBURY. darcl began the manufacture of boots and shoes in 1819, has since been engaged in some branch of that industry, and with his son, Ira N. Goddurd, still con- tinues the business at or near the place where it was begun sixty years ai^o. In 1837 the total products of the manufacture of cotton and woolen goods, guns, scythes, paper, boots and shoes, and other articles were valued at half a million dollars. In 1870 the value of the town's production was two and a half million dollars, exclusive of agriculture. Including the products of the latter, the total in 1875 was valued at about two million dollars. CHAPTER III. MANUFACTURE OF SJIALL-ARMS — THOMAS BLANCHARD — EDUCATIOXAL INTER- ESTS — CIVIC ORGANIZATIONS — LIBRARY AND TOWN HALL — THE WAR OF THE REBELLION — BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. The manufacture of small-arms, such as muskets, rifles and pistols, was for many years a prominent and loading interest in Millbury. It was begun long before the national armories were projected, and some jears even before Samuel Slater had started in this same valley of the Blackstone his famous cotton-spinning frame. On the breaking out of the Revolutionary war, guns were at once of prime necessity. Tliey could not lie imported, and mechanics, especiall}' gun-makers, were scarce. Among the first settlers of this town was a large family by the name of Waters, whose progenitor, Richard Waters, was by profession a gun- maker when he emigrated from England to Salem in 1632. Gun-making became hereditary in the family line. Two of his descendants in this town, Asa and Andrus, brothers, inherited the mechanical genius or skill requisite in this business. Guns were wrought out in that day, even in England, mostly if not wholly by hand power; a very laborious and expensive process. These brothers conceived the idea of bringing water-power to their aid, and built a gun-factory on the Singletary, upon a site next below^ the present mill of Crane & AVaters. This is believed to be the first instance on record where water-power was brought to the aid of hand-power in the manufacture of guns. It is certainly true that gun-barrels were then welded in England entirely by hand, and so continued to be until the next generation of this family, when Asa Waters, 2d, invented a process of welding them under trip-hammers by motive-power. These brothers discovered thus early — what is true to-day — that the best iron for gun-barrels lay in the mines of Salishur}', Conn. They bought it there in pigs ; had it carted through the forests to a forge in Douglas, where it was converted into refined iron, and thence was carted to their factory in North ARMORY ENTERPRISES. Ill Sutton (uow Millbury), where it was wrought into the various parts of the sjuii. It is a tradition that this factory received the patronage and aid of the State. It is certainly known that the State erected a large powder-mill on the site next above — which was the one referred to in the following I'esolvc : — " Massacdcsetts Council, Oct. 18, 177G. — Resolved, That the further sum of two buudred pounds be paid out of the treasury of the State to carry on the building of the powder-mill at Sutton." This mill was run by water-power, and was put in charge of Asa Waters, who was often heard to say that there was hardly a barn in Worcester County under which be had not bent his back to scrape up saltpetre. After the war was over, the factory was converted into a scythe-shop, and the powder-mill sold at auction. In 1808 Congress having established two public armories for the nation, one at Springfield and one at Harper's Ferry, proceeded to establish six "private armories to furnish arms to the separate States." They enacted a standing law requiring the annual payment from the United States Treasury of $200,009 for this purpose. The war department selected six of the most distinguished mechanics for this business, as follows : Asa Waters of Sutton (uow Millbury), Lemuel Pomroy of Pittsfield, North & Starr of Middletown, Conn., Eli Whitney of New Haven, and Derringer of Philadelphia, Pa., and issued to them contracts for a term of years, and renewed them from time to time. In that same year of 1808, Asa Waters, 2d, and Elijah, his Ijrother. built upon the Blackstone, it being the first privilege below the mouth of the Single- tary, and having greater power, the armory building, which still remains there, and gave to the village its name. It was in active operation during the war with England in 1812, and its business largely increased by the manufacture of scythes, saw-mill saws, bar-iron, cast-stcol, and various articles whicli could not bo imported. Deacon Elijah Waters died in 1814, much lamented. He left a large family of children, among whom was the ingenious inventor and eminent expert in patent cases, Ilervey Waters of Boston. Asa Waters continued to prosecute the business until his death in 18-11, when he left an unexpired contract of four years to run. The war department was liberal iu its contracts to him in consideratiou of the various improvements he introduced, among which was a process for weld- ing the gnu-barrel by motive-power instead of hand-power, doing the work much quicker, cheaper and better. It was adopted in all the armories in this country, and by many in Europe, and has been iu continued use since. Ilis patent is dated Oct. 2.5, 1817, and his claim to originality was never disputed. Its worth to the country has probably been far greater than the whole amount paid him on his contracts. 112 TOWN OF MILLRURY. The English method of grinding down the barrels before a revolving stone was found to leave the metal of unequal thickness around the calibre, and this made them lial)le to explode. Various inventions were made by the contractors to turn them in a lathe. Mr. Waters invented one (patented Dec. 19, 1818) in which he succeeded so far as the barrel was round, but to turn the irregular shape of the butt, baffled all his efforts, and the etlorts of the most ingenious mechanics in all the armories as well. At length, in sheer desperation, having heard of a young man living in a border farming-district who had exhibited some genius for mechanics, ho sent for him to come to his armory. When ho came he seemed a stranger to all present, appesircd diffident, had a stammering tongue, and little was expected of him. Glancing his eye over the machine, and learning what was wanted, he very soon suggested an additional, very simple, but wholly original cam motion, which relieved the difficulty at once, and proved a perfect success. It was adopted at once in all the armories, has been in use ever since, and, as it saves fully a half dollar on every gun, some estimate may be formed of its value to the country. This verdant youth, then called "Stammering Thorn," was none other than the now-renowed Thomas Blauchard, whose inventive genius has rarcl}' been surpassed in this or any other age. It was then and there, as he afterwards said, that the idea of his world-renowned machine for turning irregular forms, such as gun-stocks, shoe-lasts, spokes, tackle-blocks, ox-yokes, &c., ad infinituvi, first flashed through his mind. The germ of the latter lay in the former, and both had their birth in the armory of Mr. Waters, and, though he made no claims whatever to cither invention, he might justly claim that he was the cause or occasion of their being brought out. The private armories having been publicly and repeatedly recognized by the secretaries of war from John C. Calhoun down, as a part of the United States force for the supply of arms, the owners regarded them as permanent estalj- lishments, and invested largely in tools and machiner}', which for any other pur- pose would bo nearly worthless. In 1845, when the contracts of Asa AVatcrs and others expired, the whole system was broken up, without notice or warn- ing, and the business brought to a sudden and fin:il termination. No poor tenant could be ejected for non-paj'ment of rent with so little ceremony. Not only the contractors suffered severely, but their workmen, who had become experts on certain parts, knew no other trade, and had settled down in com- fortable homes around the armories. This was a leading interest in Millbury, and its destruction was a severe blow to the prosperity of the town. That the contractors had no undue advantage over other mechanic pursuits, will be obvious from the fact that the prices paid them were limited to the actual cost of making similar arms at the national armories. The reasons given were that the mechimics in those armories, being paid by the day, had no motive to invent labor-saving machinery, while the contractors would bo compelled to make them to secure their profits. EDUCATION. 113 Necessity is the mother of invention, and the wisclom of this policy was abundantly proved l\y experience. While very few inventions of miicli import- ance were ever made at the national armories, the private armories were wonderfully jirolitic in them. A few have been alluded to. Of the great multitude made, space will allow the mention of only one more, the milling- machine. This machine, with cast-steel cutters fitted for phiin or any irregular surfaces required, has nearly superseded the old-fashioned and cxi)cnsive ]jroccss of hand-filing. It was first brought into notice in the private armories at IMiddletown. Now it is to bo found in all our machine-shops, and hand- filing, as a trade, formerly so common, has become nearly obsolete. The cause or motive for the discoutinuance of these armories was for a long time unknown, although the direct agent in the affair was known to be Gen. George Talcott of the Ordnance Department. Some years after, tiiis officer was arraigned before a court-martial for some malfeasance in no ways connected with these armories. In the trial evidence was brought out that he was the owner of a large iron foundry in Richmond, Va., devoted to making cannon- balls for the United Slates ; that it was in charge of his nephew, to whom con- tracts were issued from time to time upon most favorable terms; that Talcott had become very rich, and was living in the style of an Eastern nabob. The mystery of the discontinuance of the private armories was now revealed. The moneys intended for their support had found their outlet chiefly through this channel. Gen. Winfield Scott was judge-advocate, and, with his higli sense of honor, was greatly shocked that a government official, so high in position, and a graduate of West Point, should bo guilty of such cori-upt embezzlement. His sentence was accordingly severe ; viz., that said George Talcott should be removed from the office of Chief of Ordnance, be deprived of his commission of brigadier-general, and his name erased from the roll of army officers. The surviving contractors had thus the satisfaction of seeing the author of their great wrongs brought to condign punisiimcnt, but not of having their business reinstated. The system had been broken up, and most of the armories converted to other pursuits.* Improvements and organizations of various kinds upon which the wclfire of a people depends, have been made and formed to keep i)ace with the commercial growth. The first school was established near the Cordis Mills. This was divided, and a school opened on the Worcester Road, and another on the Boston Road. Not long after there was a school on Park Hill, and subse- quently one near the centre of the town, on the cast side of the Blackstone. In 1832 the Academy Building, so called, was built north of the centre of Armory Village, on land given for the purpose by Asa Waters, on condition that the site should always be occupied by buildings devoted to educational purposes. The academy was established bj' a stock company, and designed * For tho history thus far given in this chapter the author acknowledges the kindness of Col. Asa H. Waters. VOL. II.— 15 114 TOWN OF MILLBURY. for a "ladies' academy." Both sexes, however, were afterwards admitted, hut a very high success was never, perliaps, attained, and in 1851 the property was purchased by the town, and a high school established, wliich lias l)cen in successful operation since. The pul>lic schools of Millbury now consist of one high school at the centre, aud sixteen common schools in different parts of the town, under the care of a committee of six memi)ers. The common schools are divided into graded and mixed schools. There arc mixed schools in the Haywood district, at the Burling IMills and on the old common ; graded schools are in Bramnnvi'.'.c, and at the Centre or Armory Village, divided into a sub- primary, primary, iutermeditite aud grammar schools ; on Providence Street, in the eastern part of the town, are su!)-primary, primary and intermediate: and in West Milli)ury intermediate and grammar schools. The course of stud}' in the high school requires four years, and is divided into English and classical. The latter is intended to prepare pupils for college. The high school gives diplomas. The appropriation for schools in 1879 was $7,000, and the school property is valued at $30,000. The schools arc provided with apparatus for the use of those pursuing philosophical and scicntilic studies. The Millbury Free Public Library w:is established in 1SG4. The l)o:ird of trustees consists of three members, chosen to serve three j'cars, together wiih the chairman of the school committee and the principal of the high school. The library is composed of books liclonging to an agricultural society long since disbanded, and of those given by the Social Friends, an organization connected with the academy. In 1?64 this society offered its library of about six hundred volumes to the town "for the purpose of founding a free public library, on condition that the town will accept it, and make suitable provision for its care and increase." The offer was accepted, and in 186 J the town took charge of the library aud made a|)propriations fcjr its support. The dog-fund has been .annually voted to maintain it. The library has three thousand two hun- dred volumes. In 1872 Deacon Leonard Dwinell bequeathed the library $100. Until 183G town meetings were held on the old common ; after that time, till 18")1, at Bramanvillc. When the town bought the academy, meetings were held in it until 1879. In 1873 the town began the erection of a new town hall, the cost of which, including lot, was $32,500. It stands at the inter- section of South Main with Elm Street, in the he;irt of Armory Village. The material is brick, with sandstone trimmings. A hall in th.e upper story has a seating capacity of one thousiind. The building contains, also, offices for town officials, a reading-room and the public library. The "Olive Branch" Lodge of Masons of Millbury was orguiized on ]\I:iy 1, 1797, by Mtisons living in Sutton and Oxford, and the meetings were held in these towns alternately. The charter was granted on Sept. 11, 1797, and hears the names of Paul Revere, grand master, and Isaiah Thomas, senior grand warden. In 181G the home of this lodge was in Sutton, where it remained till 18G0, when it was removed to Millbury. This lodge is the PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS. 115 parent of similar organizations in Oxford, "Webster antl Grafton. Its members number about one luintlretl. Biatkstone Lodge, No. 18, of the InOepondont Order of Good Templars, was organized in Millbur}'^ on March 18, 1SG4, with a meml)ership of tliirtccn. The total number of members is four hundred and more, and its uiunljcr in 1879 Avas about one hundred and fifty. The Millbury Guards, a company of the tenth regiment, State militia, is composed entirely of citizens of the town. It is claimed that the first lyccum, the parent of the present system, originated in Millbury.* It was composed of residents of the town, who lectured before their townsmen on philosophical and scicntitic subjects. The exact date of the formation of this society is not known, but it is I)elieved to bo about 1820. It is also true that John 15. Gough's lecture s^'stem had its origin here, for his first lecture was delivered in Millbury. And it is also claimed that the first temperance society was forined in Millbury. According to tradi- tion and the oldest inhabitant, a society was organized many jears ago for the promotion of temperance ; total abstinence was then miknown. The memliers of this society met on Saturday evenings to render an account of their drinking during the week. If a member had been intemperate I13 was put upon an allowance for the week to come. At one meeting ii meml)cr declared that he had abstained from the use of liquors since the last meeting, and, moreover, should not drink ag.iin. His veracity was questioned in regard to the past, and he was considered insane with respect to the future ; for it was then thought impossible for any one to exist, much less thrive, without his thrice-d;uly dram. Notwithstanding, or possibly in consequence of the strict watch kept of the movements of this total abstainer, his declaration was made good until his death. The Millbiuy National Bank was founded b^- Asa "Waters, and incorporated as a State bank of discoinit and deposit in 18-5, with a capital of one iuuulrcd thousand dollars. The change from Stale to national bank was made in ISdl. The present capitid is two huudrcd thousand dollars. The first board nf directors consisted of Asa AVaters, Simon Farusworth, Caleb Burbank, William yi. Benedict and Elijah Waters of Millbury, Jonas L. Sibley of Sutton, Samuel A\'ood of Grafton, Sylvaiuis Iloliirook of Xorthbridgo and Au>tiu Denny of "Worcester. The following have been presidents and cashiers in the order given: — Presidents: Asa "Waters, Simon Farusworth, Asa II. "Waters, Simon Farusworth, Jonathan Waricn, Ilosea Crane. Cashiers: Lewis Mids, William Whittlesey, II. B. Chapman, Jonathan Cary, John Prentice, Joseph S Farnum, * Many towns and cities now claim tliis honor. Millbury lias to support licr claim, a ])nl>lic statement of IIcv. I. Ilolbrook, who devoted many years to ^ivin^ lectures upon astronomy hel'ore (he lyccums throughout the country, and whoso labors i:i this field .ire still remembered with gratitudt^ by many. In his last course ho said ho had made it a matter of special inquiry in his travels to find out wliero the first lyccum originated, and he had become couviuced it was in Mill- bury, and about the year 1820, 11 G TOWN OF MILLBURY. David Atwood, F. C. Miles, Amos Armshy. This bank was robbed, iu 1842, of twenty-two tbousaud dollars, l)iit the monc}' was found and the robbers punished. The MiUbury Savings Bank wms incorporated in 1854, through the influence of David Atwood, who has been treasurer from that time until the present, with the exception of two months, when Frank C. Miles held the ofBce. The following have been presidents : — Jonathan A. Pope, Clough R. Miles, Thomas J. Harrington, Horace Armsi)y, William R. Hill. A post-ofEce was established in Armory Village about 1818, and Simon Farnsworth appointed postmaster. Other postmasters were appointed in this order: — Jonathan Grout, Asa H. Waters, Daniel J. Paul, Simon Dudley, William Fenner, T. W. Childs, Simon Farnsworth, Jr., and Roland E. Bowen. During the war of Rebellion the town of jNIillbury put three limidred and fort^'-six men in the field, twenty-six over and above all demands; raised for war purposes, thirty-five thousand nine hundred and thirty dollars and sevcnt\- fonr cents; and paid State aid to the amount of nineteen thousand six hundred and seventy-six dollars and fifty-six cents. On May 7, 1861, at the first meeting held to consider war measures, a com- mittee of seven was appointed "to furnish such persons as shall enlist in the military service iu that town with anything which in the opinion of the com- mittee may bo necessary for their comfort, with power to draw money from the treasury." In September the town voted to raise two thousand five hun- dred dollars to defray expenses already incurred iu recruiting volunteers, and to aid those who enlisted thereafter. The selectmen were directed to continue supplying the families of volunteers at their discretion. On i\larch 17, 18G2, it was voted to appropriate two thousand five hundred dollars to aid families of volunteers; on Jidy 17, a bounty of one hundred dollars to each volunteer who should enlist, be mustered into the service, and be accredited to the town's quota ; also voted to pay one hundred dollars in addition to that already voted to those men who should enlist between August loth and 15th, inclusive, to fill the quota of the town in the first call of the President for three hundred thousand men ; also voted to give a bounty of one hundred and fifty dollars to each volunteer for nine months, to be paid when mustered into the service of the United States ; also the treasurer was authorized to boirow money. In March, 18G3, the town treasurer was authorized to l)orrow mone}' to pay aid to families of volunteers, and the selectmen were directed to assist such families, "as they shall think best for the treasury of the town." During this year nian\' meetings were held to encourage enlistments, and mone}' was raiseil I)y subscription to pay bounties. On March 30, 1864, the town voted to raise four thousand four hundred dol- lars to rcfinid money advanced by citizens to pay bounties ; also voted to give a STATISTICS. 117 bounty of one hundrccl iuul twenty-five dollars to each volunteer who should enlist and be accredited to the quota of the town. On Juue 22, the same bounty was offered. In 18(15, the town again voted to raise money to reim- burse those who had assisted iu payiug bounties. The following lost their lives in the service of the United States : — Henry Bartou, Charles Burr, James J. Colby, Patrick Doherty, William W. Dane, Lewis Dover, Reuben Dyson, John S. Emerson, George W. Emerson, Edward K. Ilarriugton, Elisha S. Livermore, Andrew J. Laverty, Jeremiah Moynihan, Edward II. Moore, Mitchel W. Paul, George G. Phillips, Daniel G. Pitts, George II. Powers, Lucius Parodis, Francis C. Pope, George A. Ryan, Rufus II. Stone, James S. Slocomb, William II. Smith, Franklin Varney, Edwin D. Waters, Robert Wilson, Truman B. Waters, Nelson Sabin, John B. Dunn, Edward C. Glcason, Robert KcUey. In 1853, Asa II. Waters was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention. Calvin Willard, Ilosca Crane and Henry L. Bancroft have been members of the Slate Senate. The first representative to the General Court from ISIillbury was Asa Good- ell, elected May 2, 1814, and again in the following year. lie was followed by Amasa Braman in ISK! ; Caleb Burbank, 1819; Asa Waters, 1823-4; Eli.as Forbes, 1827-8 ; Aaron Pierce and Amasa Hall, 182D ; Elias Forbes and Simeon Waters, 1830; Simeon Waters and Asa Waters, 1831 ; William Bene- dict and Elijah Waters, 1832 ; Amasa Wood and Henry Mills, 1833 ; Amasa Wood and Joseph Griggs, 1834; Joseph Griggs and Lyman GoodcU 1835; Lyman Goodcll and Aaron Trask, 183G ; Aaron Trask and Job Gorton, 1837 ; Job Gorton and Charles ILilc 1838 ; Charles Hale and Cyrus Faulkner, 1839 ; Joseph Robbins and Ezra Lr)vell, 1842; Calvin AVillard, 1844; Benjamin Flagg, 1845 ; Asa II. Waters, 1848-9 ; Orville E. Thompson, 1850-51 ; N, P. Smith, 1854; Josc|)h Rol)l)ins, 1855-(); Ilosoa Crane, 1858; Horace Armsby, 1860-Gl ; Leonard Spaidding, 1862; Henry E. Rockwell, 18()G ; Silas Dunton, 18G7; Henry L. Bancroft, 18G9 ; Irvin B. Sayles, 1871 ; C. D. ilorse, 1872; David Atwood, 1874; George A. Flagg, 187G. The following statistics will l)o interesting: — Population, 1820, 92G ; 1835, 2,153 ; 1850, 3,091 ; 18G0, 3,29G ; 1870, 4,400. In 1875, 4,529 ; families, 940 ; dwellings, 578; polls, 1,084; voters, GSG ; farms, lOG ; acres cultivated, 2,257 ; total acreage in farms, G,9G5 ; value of farm lands, §59G,978 ; value of products of agriculture, $118,401; horses, 158; cows, 348; sheep, 9; employed in manufactures, 1,102; value of products of manufactures, $1,937,797; value of personal property, $771,485; value of real estate, $l,74G,G33 ; total valuation, $2,518,118 ; rate of taxation, $15.25 per $1,000. 118 TOWN OF NEW BRAIXTREE. NEW BRAINTREE. BY GEORGE K. TUFTS, ESa CHAPTER I. SITUATION AND NATURAL FEATURES FIRST CONDITION INDIAN REMINIS- CENCES EARLY RECORDS POLITICAL HABITS MEETING-HOUSE — FIRST MINISTER SCHOOL-HOUSES AND " SQUADRONS " SPIRIT IN THE REVOLUTION SHAYS REBELLION WAR OF 1812 IMPROVEMENTS REBELLION BOUNTIES AND ENLISTMENTS PUBLIC MEN. New Braintree is nearly in shape of an isosceles triangle, with sides of six miles and base of nine ; hounded hy OaUham and Barre on the north-cast side, Ilardwick on the north-west, and West Brookticld and North Brookfield on its base or southerly line. It contains twenty-one square miles, lying distant from Worcester seventeen miles west. Its surface Is hilly and finely adapted to grazing, and finds its highest elevation in Tufts Ilill. Its first recorded valu- ation was £2,454, when it had 217 polls and 272 head of cattle and horses. Its rate of taxation was then tcnpeuce i)er )>ound, and one man onl}' — Henry Peuniman — was taxed for money at interest, to wit, £150. Its highest valua- tion was in 1871, being $590,430 ; number of polls, IGG ; number of heads of stock, 1,340. Its highest population was in 171)(), when it was nine hundred and forty persons. Nearly one-half of the town consisted of a gore of land lying between Rutland and Ilardwick (formerly Lamb's Town), and was granted by the (uMieial Court to certain individuals of Braintree, and called Braintree Farms. This tract, with a portion of Ilardwick and Brookfield, was incorporated into a District, Jan. 31, 1751, and received the name of New Braintree. About one and a half miles in a north-west direction from the centre and on the flats of the Winnimissct the Indians had formerly a settlement of considciablc importance. Here Mrs. Howard, who was taken captive at Lancaster in 1G79, was brought with her two children, and one of the latter was killed by the Indians. On the hill half a mile east of the "Winnimisset there is now a small stone monument, which, as tradition affirms, marks its grave. A little south of the Indian LOCAL CHARACTER. 119 village twelve men, agents on their way to treat for peace with the InJiaiis, were slain by them in ambush, Aug. 2, 1675. Capt. Eleazer Warner, the first white male child born in the district, and for many years after its formation conspicuous in local m.ilters, through his skill and success in the struggles with the Indians, had brought upon himself their lasting enmity, which peace could not erase. One day, some time after the war was over, an Indian called at the house of Mr. Rice of Hardwick, and inquired the way to Mr. Warner's house. He was directed by the common road. After ho had gone, Mr. Rice, suspecting tlie object of his visit, despatched a messenger by a blazed path through the forest to apprize Mr. Warner of his danger. Mr. Warner quietly took down his gun and entered the forest. The parties soon Ijccamc aware of each other's presence, and sought each his cover, the Indian a tree and Mr. Warner a fallen log, eat h awaiting some exposure on the part of the other. After waiting a while Capt. Warner placed his hit on the end of the muzzle of his gtui and raised it a trillo above the log. The Indian fired, and the bullet passed through the hat. Capt. Warner then arose and shot the Indian, sinking his body in the Black Pond near by. The affair was kojit secret by Mr. Warner until near the close of his life. He died Feb. 28, niG. The most fruitful source of information as to the character of the early inhab- itants is the records of their public meetings, which seem to have been kept very minutely. From these it is inferred that they were jealous of their rights as citizens, independent in the formation and fearless in the expression of their convictions on all national, State and coimty matters, and watchful of their religions, educational and materi:il interests, and by their industr}^ and thrift accimiulating independence, and many of them wealth. The action of the town on all local as well as Slate and national matters has been characterized by a greater harmony than is usual in most towns. Seldom, if ever, have there been two rivtd political candidates for representative. There has been but little disposition for frecpient changes in officers or manner of conducting business. Men once chosen to office, and proving themselves capable and faithful therein, have received the continued support of the people. The longest uninterrupted period of service was by Rev. John Fiske, chairman of school committee fifty-five years; the next by Philip Delano, town clerk thirty-four years. In politics the Federalists, Whigs and Republicans have in succession always been in a majority ranging from twenty to one to three to one. The greater inequality was in 1803, when Gerry, the Democratic candidate for governor, leecived only one vote, against eighty lor Strong, his opponent. The nearest approach to equality was in 187G — Rcpulilicans, 7.") ; Democrats, 50. Educational institutions have received a. liberal and hearty siq)port. Previ- ous to 18-10 there were fourteen graduates of colleges, a l.irger number than in any town in the Urookficld Association of Churches. 120 TOWN OF NEW BRAINTREE. The first district meeting was held at the house of David Aycrs (on site of present residence of Sullivan Converse), March 13, 1751, with Elcazer Warner as moderator, and David Woods, town clerk. The selectmen of the first year were Eieazer Warner, David Gilbert and Cornelius Cannon. Among the first acts of the new district was "To raise ten pounds to provide jjreaching, and to choose a Committee to procure a i)rcacher as soon as convenient!}' he could be had"; also, "to find a centre of land already laid off, which should bo the prefixed spot for a meeting-house." Jan. 1, 1752, the town voted " to build a meeting-house forty by fifty feet," on the site of the present one. Pews were not erected until 1756, and in this wise. A bounty sutBcient to cover tho expense of a pulpit and deacon's seat, ranging from seven pounds to three per one hundred, was laid on the pew-ground, according to its dignity (location). The right of choice was assigned to persons according lo age and character, and each purchaser was to build his own pew. In 17G7 the house was lathed and plastered. 1772, porches were added. In 1800 the town voted to build a new meeting-house, fifty feet sciuare, on the site of the old one, to be com- pleted in two years and eight months. Henry Penuimau gave $300 to buy a new bell, and received in return the first choice of seats in the new house. 1802, Henry Penniman and Joseph Bowman gave a new town clock. Novem- ber 1, first meeting held in new house. No alterations made until 184G, when the house was lowered and entirely remodeled, with town hall and vestry below. Dedicated Oct. 2(), 1846, the fiftieth anniversary of the settlement of Rev. John Fiske, D.D. Bounty money on pews procured an organ at an expense of $1,100. 1877, house again repaired, with fimds contributed by Ladies' Social Gathering and a gift of $300 from estate of Edward Fiske, of Brooklyn, N. Y. The members of the district used great caution in settlement cf a minister. They listened to three candidates the first year witiiont choice. They set apart Feb. 21, 1753, as a day of fasting and prayer for direction. Jan. 23, 1754, they sought advice of five neighboring ministers, and, February 4, extended a call to Rev. Benjamin Ruggles of Middletcu, with thirty pounds encouragement to settle and fifty pounds annual salary. April 18, he was installed, and officiated twenty-four years. Died May 12, 1782. He was a man of "average ability and sincere piety, and his relations wilh tho people were entirel}- harmonious and productive of great blessing." Oct. 27, 1778, Rev. Daniel Foster was ordained with one thousand pounds settlement and sixty-six pounds annual salary, and thirty cords of wood. There was much opposition to his settlement, but he proved exceedingly popular, and ultimately won the afl'cctions of his people. He died S"pt. 1, 1795. The town was without a pastor until Oct. 26, 1706, when Rev. John Fiske of AVarwick was installed, with two hundred and thirty pounds setllemcnt and ninety pounds aimual salary. He remained until his death, March 15, 1855, fifty-nine years. He received in final settlement from his parish $800, and $200 as a private contribution from Josiah Gleason. June 22, 1853, Rev. James T. Hyde, ii CHURCHES and schools. 121 firadiiate of Yale Collepro and Autlovor Seminary, was ordained as colleague with Dr. Fiske. Mr. Hyde was dismissed Aug. 27, 1855. April 23, 185G, Rev. John II. Giirncy was installed, salary $900; dismissed June oO, 18()0. May 3, 1871, Rc%'. Jcihn Dodge of North Brookfield was installed, salary S1.200; died Juno 19, 1872. Oct. 30, 1872, Rev. William B. Bond of Chicago was installed. April 18, 1754, the church was first gathered and formed, l>'.it no records exist for forty-two years, except in 1778 and '79. Imme- diately after the settlement of Mr. Foster certain meml)crs of the church ap[)lied for dismission on the ground of their helief in the virtual denial by their pastor of some of the fundamental truths of the gospel. The application was refused because the points at issue h;id been settled by the ordaining coimcil. A few retired and attended the IVaptist church in Rutland. Pre- vious to 1796 no confession of failh was required tor admission to the church. There was no covenant in use between its members. Children were baptized indiscriminate!}', whether their parents were partakers of the sacrament or not. But in the first year of John Fiskc's ministry a new order of things was established. A public confession of faith was required, the practice of baptism restricted, and in 1810 the church was formally and publicly reorganized, with articles of fiith and covenant essentially the same as those now in use. It received, from 179G to 1821, yearly ticcessions by profession : in 1810 and '11, 37; 1819 and '21, 100; 1827, 30; 1831, 25; 1841, 49; 18G6, 20. Fr.)m 1800 to 1S79, 334. Membership in 1810, 58 ; 1851, 123 ; 1S79, 59. The following list gives the names of the deacons of this church, and the order in which they were chosen : "William Witt, James Woods, Samuel Ware, Jonalhan Woods, Jonathan Gould, chosen previous to 1775; George r>arr, previous to 1800; Abijaii Bigclow, 1805; James Woods, 1808; Jacob Pepper, 1815; Samuel Warner, 1815; Phinehas AVarner, 1817; Francis Adams, 1828; Amasa Bigelow, 1830; Welcome Newell, 1830; Henry M. Daniels, 1855; Elbridge Gleason and Moses Pollard, 18G2. The first appropriation for schools was made Oct. 1, 1753, of three pounds. School wa-; taught three months, one month each in three difi'erent parts of the district. In 17.')G the district Avas divided into four school squadrons, but slIiodI was taught in private houses until 17G0, when the first school-house was built at the Centre, "twenty feet squai'e, with chimney in the middle," at a cost of ten pounds. In 17(57 four new houses were built; appropriation, twenty pounds ; 1778, sixty pounds. 1785, first grammar school maintained. 1787, Aaron Hall exempted from taxes so long as ho shall serve the town as grammar-school master. The customary appropriation for schools was con- tinued through the Revolutionary War, although it was omitted in many towns. 1777, town divided into eight districts. 1792, permission was granted to each district to build new houses, ami they continued to hold and improve their propert}- until ISGl, when the town purchnscd the old houses and erected five ucw ones at a cost of $5,000. It was divided in that year again into six VOL. II.— 16 122 TOWX OF KEW BRAIXTREE. districts. It is interesting to note that in 18G1, when the town virtually abolislied the district system, it returned to the custom, first adopted in 1753, of giving to each district Ihc same length of school, having in the meantime divided the appropriation, first, in propoition to the amount of taxable property in each district, and afterwards according to the number of scholars ; some of the districts with fewer scholars made up the deficiency in wood and board. In 1709 the general supervision of the schools was committed to Rov. John Fisko, who performed the active duties of the office more than fifty years without compensation, excepting the last five years. To him mainly w-as the town indebted for the relatively high standtird of its schools, and the interest in education that has never diminished. In 1800 teachers were first required to pass a legal examination before receiving compensation for services. In 1845 school committees first received compensation. In 1800, appropriations, $400 ; 1813, $500; 1836, $801; 1874, $1,800; 1878, second town in county and twenty-second in State in amount raised per scholar, $17.4G. On the first Monday in June, 1773, in reply to a letter from "y'' Inhabitants of y° Town of Boston," the town "Voted that tlie Freeholders and other Inhabitants of yo^ Town of Boston hereby receive the liearty thanks of this district for the vigilance, firmness, and wisdom which they have discovered at all times in support of y" rights and liberties of llie colon3", and do heartily concur with them in all their constitutional determinations." March 7, 1774. A committee was chosen to draw up something in rcpl^' to "y" Inhabitants of y"^ Town of Boston," relative to the difficulties the Province labors under. April 20, the following resolves were reported, "which, being twice read and considered, were passed unanimously " : — " 1". That we will, in conjunction with our IJrethcrcn in America, Risk our Fortunes and even our Lives in defense of his Majesty King George the third, His Person, Crown and Dignit3-, and will also with y^ same Resolution, as his froc-born suhjects in this Country, to the utmost of our Power, And Ability, Defend our Charter Rights that they may be transmitted Inviolate to the Latest Posterity. " 2''. Resolved that every Dritish Subject in America, has by our happy conslitntioii as well as by nature, the sole Right to dispose of his own Property either by himself or by his Representative. "S"". Resolved that y" act of y" British Parliament Laying a Duty on Tea Landed in America payable here is a Tax whereby the Property of Americans is taken from them without their consent. " Therefore, Resolved : That we will not, either by ourselves or any for or under us. buj' or sell or use any of y' East India Company Tea Imported from CIreat Briltain, oi any other Tea with a Duty for raising a Revenue thereon in America, which is atlixec'' by acts of Parliament on the same. Neither will we suffer an^- such Tea to be made ui in our Families. " Resolved, that all such persons as shall purchase, sell or use such Tea shall be fo. the future deemed unfriendly & Enemies to the happy Constitution of this Country." REVOLUTIONARY FEELING. 123 At the same time, — "Votcil, Nincty-cnc Pounds to provide a Town's Stock of Powder and Lead and Flints with." August 25, Deas. Jaiucs Woods and Samuel Ware were appointed a com- uiiltcc to meet like committees from other towns in the county " to consider what measures they ougiit to come into at this critical, diffi(niit day," and a, com- mittee of correspondence was chosen. September 2, Dea. James Woods chosen a delegate to a Provincial Congress, to be held in October. The town then chose officers for a standing militia. November 7, a committee of seven chosen to inspect all tea-drinkers, and post their names. May 22, 1775. James Woods chosen a delegate to a Provincial Congress at Watertown, May 31. The same date, the town accepted the proposal of the minute-men to serve without pay, on condition that the other moml)ers of tlie district provide themselves with arms and ammunition. S.ime date, a committee chosen to receive and forward the donations to the poor of Boston, and a committee chosen to see that the Provincial and Continental resolves bo strictly adhered to. " Maj' 22, 177C, Tlie Question being put wliether y° Town would willingly support y" General Congress if it shall declare Independence : Passed unanimously in the afTirmalivc." Feb. 17, 1777. Jonathan Woods chosen delegate to a County Congress to obtain a more equal and just representation in the General Court for smaller towns. February 24, tiic Committee of Safety, to prevent monopoly and oppression, fixed a uniform price of all produce and merchandise, and all kinds of labor. March 31. V(jted a bounty of twenty pounds to every soldier who should enlist in the Continental army for three years, and one of ten pounds for one year, and chose a recruiting committee to fill the town's rjuota. November 24, a remonstrance was sent to the General Court against charging interest on bills of credit emitted by the State. Jan. 5, 1778. Voted that the town has no ohjectlon to articles of Confeder- ation and perpetual Union between the United States of America. But the town refused, ]May 19, 1778, and again May 31, 1780, to adopt the Constitu- tion of the State of Massachusetts Bay. The cost of war to town and number of men furnished is unknown; but the records from 1778 to '82 are replete with votes for filling quota of men and horses, paying bounties, monthly wages, and furnishing clothing and provisions to soldiers and their families. May, 178(3. The town gave instructions to its representative, setting forth the great extortion and op[)rcssion practiced by the law^'ers of the Common- wealth, their growing importance as a class in numbers and wealth, and the danger to civil liberty tliereby ; the tardiness of obtaining justice in the courts, and high fees of certain court officers ; and expressing the belief that our only 124 TOWN OF NEW BRAINTREE. hope of existence as !x nation rested in the frui^ality, economy and industry of the people. The dissatisfaction arising from these gi-ievanccs culminated in Shays' Rebellion. Twenty-two from New Braintree joined Capt. Shays. Jan. 13, 1787. The town entei-cd its protest against the conrso adopted by the Kesrulators, and chose a committee to confer with the Hon. Gen. Lin- coln and officers, and Capt. Shays and ofHcers, and eU'ect a reconciliation. It also voted, February 3, to petition the General Court for a general jjavdon of the insurgents, provided they laid down their arms and returned to their allesiance ; also to send circular-letters to a number of towns in this and other counties, inviting them to send similar petitions. February 5, a communica- tion Avas received from Gen. Lincoln, advising the town to call home without delay all the men belonging to it in arms under Capt. Shays, and not to atTord any aid or comfort to the insurgents. When this letter was received, after beino' several times read and considered, such a disagreement appeared con- cerning the adoption of the course advised, that the meeting dissolved without action. March 17, 17S7. The twenty-two took the oath of allegiance. May 21, the town instructed its representative as follows : — "In all free Governments, that idea ought ever to be Kept in view that the Rulers and Ministers of State arc the Ilonoiahlo Servants and not the Ilauj^hty Jlasters of the people, and directing him to use liis utmost exertions for a general panloii of the insur- Ccnts lately in rcljcllion, restricting the number of lawyers in tho Comiiionwealtli to a small number of approved and upright character, to dismiss the Courts of Common Pleas, Sheriffs and Dep. ShcrifTs of Worcester County, empower the selectmen to do the business of Judge of Probate, and have the General Court removed from Boston." June, 1790. Adopted an act to discourage unnecessary lawsuits, providing for a committee of three discreet freeholders, to whom should bo submitted for settlements all demands whatsoe%'er held by one citizen against another. The fees of the committee were two shillings each for each case. Any person refusing to present his claim to the committee for settlement should be deeiued unfriendly to the peace of the town, and treated by the inhabitants with con- tempt and neglect as to dealings and intercourse, save in the bare offices of himianity, and should have no votes for any town office for three years. March 20, 1792. The town bccatnc security to the Commonwcallh for Joseph Bowman and three others in a contract to support the entire poor of the State for ten years. They in tm-n agreed to collect all taxes during that time free of expense ; to take all kinds of produce in paj'ment of taxes at a generous price, and to purchase at a generous price from said town all produce needed besides for the support of said poor. 1753. The " Great Bridge " was built over Ware River, near (he " Furnace." 1770. First known fire occurred, of John Barr's house, and town meeting adjourned thereby. NOTES AND ANNALS. 125 1775. A committee chosen to encourage manufacture of saltpetre. 17i)(). Parade-ground presented hy Henry Penniman. 1804. Bounds established between Brooklicld and New Braintree. 1808. September 1. The town petitioned the President of the United States for a suspension of the act of embargo of 1807. 1810. Town visited with spotted fever, and two hundred and forty dollars paid by town f jr attendance of physicians. Bounds of Common established. July 2, 1812. Voted to co-operate with the town of Boston in using all constitutional means to avert the threatened war. Jnly 24. Memorialized the President of the United States, disapproving of the present war, and abhorring an alliance with France. 1817. Sabbath-school first organized. 1818. Stoves first introduced into meeting-house. Previous to 1820, the support of the poor had lieen put up at auction to the lowest bidder. In 1833, the town j^m'chased the Little farm, and supported its poor thereon. 1835. Adopted rules for the rcgnlation of its pauper establishment. March 7, 1832. New Braintree Thief-Detecting Society organized with a membership of forty-eight. The "New Braintree Temperance House" was erected by a stock company at an expense of nearly six thousand dollars. It has not proved to be a paying investment to stockholders, but a prevention to the spread of iutcmperauco. Until 1843, religions institutions were supported by a town tax. New Brain- tree being the last town in the Commonwealth to sever the relation between Church and Stale. ^larch 20, 1843. The Congregational parish was organized with a momber- shif) of seventy-nine. In 18G0, the "plenro-pneumonia" appeared among the cattle. Two Avholo herds were slangiifered, and five hniidred dollars paid for the relief of the sulTerers. The pursuits of the inhabitants have been almost wholly agricultural. The diiiry has been the chief source of income. As carl}' as 1800, New Braintree cheese had acquired an enviable reputation in Boston. Previous to 18G5, this was made in i)rivate dairies ; during that j^ear, the New Braintree Cheese Man- ufacturing Compau}' was organized with a capital of $4,000, and erected and furnished a factory at a cost of $11,000. The greatest quantity of milk made in one year was 3,021,000 pounds, which may be a fair estimate of the annual production of the town. The market value of this was $42,294. 180L The first legal town meeting to act upon matters relating to the w.ar of the Rebellion, was held May 7th, at which the selectmen were authorized to pay each volunteer belonging to the town five dollars per month while in service, in addition to regular pay, and four dollars per month to his wife, and two dollars to each child under twelve years of age. July 21, 18G2, voted, to 126 TOWN OF NEW BRAINTREE. pay a bounty of one hundred dollars to each vohinteer who enlists for three years, and ten dollars additional to those who enlist within one week. Aug. 26. The bounty for three years' volunteers was raised to two hundred dollars, and Ihc bounty to volunteers for nine months fixed at one hundred and fifty dollars, which Nov. 4 was raised to two hundred dollars. Nov. 3, 1863. The town treasurer was directed to pay the treasurer of the State "the balance due under the act equalizing the bounties of volunteers." April 11, 18G4. Voted, a bounty of one hundred and twenty-five dollars to volunteers for three j-ears' service, and this bounty was continued to be paid nutil the end of the war. The town raised $9,00^.55 for the war, besides Slate aid, and seventj--eight men, four l)eyond her quota. One onl}', Lieut. George Davis, was a commissioned officer. The first representative to the General Court, Maj. James Woods was chosen in 1775, for which he received a compensation of eleven pounds eight shillings and twopence. Ilis successors were, in 177G, Jonathan Woods; 177!) (o 1784, Joseph Bowman ; 1786, Capt. Artemas Howe ; 1787 to 1703, C:ipt. Ben- jamin Joslyn ; 1704, Capt. A. Howe ; 1796, Elias Hall ; 1797, 1800 and 1801, Benj. Joslyn; 1708, Elias Hall; 1803 to 1806, Capt. James Woods; 1807 to 1814, Joseph Bowman, Jr.; 1815 to 1817, Col. Henry Penniman ; ISIS and 1819, Col. Samuel Mixter ; 1821, Gideon Delano; 1823, Capt. David Wait ; 1824 and 1825, Gideon Delano ; 1826 and 1827, Jos. Bowmnu ; 1828 and 1829, Philip Delano; 1831, Jos. Bowman; 1833, Samuel Bigclow ; 1834, Amory H. Bowman ; 1835 and 1836, James Bowdoiu ; 1837 and 1838, Job Raiiigcr; 1839, James Bowman; 1840 and 1841, Col. Stephen Fay; 1842 and 1843, Capt. Hoilis Tidd; 1844 and 1848, Henry A. Delano; 1851, Jonathan G. Frost; 1852, Moses Pollard ; 1854 and 1855, Amory H. Feltou ; 1857, Henry M.Daniels, 18G3, Saxton P. Martin, M. D. ; 1869, Charles Wilcox ; 1873, Charles A. Gleasou. Prominently connected with its local matters previous to 1790, were : David Ayers, Capt. Eleazcr Warner, Dea. James Woods, Joseph Pepper, Dea. Jon- athan Woods, David Woods, James Thompson, Dea. William Witt, Samuel Ware, Matthew Barr, Robert Hunter, Jonathan Cobleigh, Beriah Hawes, Maj. Joseph Bowman, Thomas Whipple, Jacob Pepper, Percival Hall, Solomon Mathews, Joseph Barr, Maj. Artemas Howe, Benj. Joslyn, Henry Penniman, Wareham Warner, John Tufts, Jonathan N3'c. April 19, 1775, a company of niinute-mcn, numbering fifty, was organized under John Granger as captain, and attached to Col. Jonathan Warner's regi- ment. Their time of service averaged two weeks. A muster-roll of the company under Capt. Granger, in Col. Loarncd's regiment, Aug. 1, 1775, includes thirty-three from New Braintree, twenty from Weslurn (now War- ren), and ten from other towns. Their time of service was three months one week and six days. May 27, 1778, wages were paid to soldiers per month at the following rales : To those serving in the aiiny in New York, live potmds ; PROMINENT MEN. 127 af Ticondcrogii antl wcstwartl, six pounds; in the Jerspys, four pounds; at Fislikili, six pounds ; to Continentals, for throe jears, three pounds ten shil- lings. The third regiment, State militia, including, with others, one company of militia from this town, and one c(m:pany of grenadiers from New Braintroc and O.ikham jointly, mustered every alternate year on the parade-grounds granted b}' Henry Pcnuiman. The commissioned colonels of the third regiment from New Braintrec, were : Samuel Mixter, Louis Blackmcr, Henry Penniman, Stephen Fay, Asa Earr, IJos- weli Converse and Amory H. Bowman, Brigade Inspector, with rank of colonel. Hon. Samuel Mixter, born Oct. 15, 1784; in the House of Bcprescntativcs, 1818 and 1819; senator for Worcester County, 1833, 1831 and 1835 ; council- lor, 1837 and 1838; commissioned colonel of third regiment State militia; prominent iu school matters and probate of estates; died Jlarch 30, 1862. Hon. Joseph Bowman was born in New Braintree, Sept. 11, 1771. With very limited education, he entered business, during his minority, with Henry Penniman, in his native place. By enterprise, untiring industry, perseverance, sound judgment and unflincbing intcgritj-, he enlarged the business until it extended through ver}' many of the towns in the we^t half of Worcester and cast part of Hampshire counties. Ho continued iu business thirt^'-fivc jears, realizing a considcral)le fortune. He was chosen president of Hampshire Manu- facturers' Bank in Ware, in 1827, and held the ofEce twenty-one j'ears. Iu politics he was a member of the Whig party ; elected representative iu 1807 and thirteen times thereafter; senator in 1827 and 1828, and member of the council under Gov. Lincoln's administration, in 1833 and 183-1; a liberal sup- porter of religions and educational institutions ; died Jan. 30, 1852. Rev. John Fiske, D. D., born at Warwick, Oct. 20, 1770; graduated at Dartmouth, 1791 ; studied theology under Rev. Dr. Lyman of Ilattield ; licensed to jireach at Iladlcy, March G, 1794; settled in New Braintree, Oct. 2(1, 1790 ; received degree of D. D. from Amherst College in 1844 ; published a spelling-book in 1807 ; Fast Day sermon 1812 ; dedicatory and semi-centen- nial discourse 1840 ; a founder and long a trustee of Amherst College ; emi- nently wise, cautif)us, determined, modest, with a steady adherence to his con- victions of truth and justice; had a thorough knowledge of human nature, an micommon tact in dealing with men, and exercised a great iufhicnee in his town, and in the association in which, by common consent, he occupied the tirst posi- tion ; died March 15, 1855, after a ministry of fifty-eight years. A li?t of the town clerks of New Braintree is appended, witli the date of first election of each : David Woods, 1750 ; Benjamin Bradsbaw, 1778 ; Joseph Bowman, 1779; Elias Hall, 1781; Percival Hall, 1787; Alpheus Warner, 1794; Philip Delano, 1800; Amasa Bigelow, 1834; Henry A. Delano, 1843; A. A. Kendall, 1855 ; Henry A. Delano, 185G ; Abijah Eddy, 1801 ; licv. John II. Gurncy, 18G3 ; Charles B. Frost, 1804 ; George K. Tufts, 1807. 128 TOWN OF NORTHBOROUGII. NORTHBO ROUGH, BY REV. HORACE DrTTON* CHAPTER I. SITUATIOX AND ASPECTS — IXCOUPORATIOX — EARLY SETTLERS — RELIGIOUS HISTORY MINISTERS LATER SOCIETIES EDUCATION LYCEUMS LIBRARIES. NoRTiiBOROUGH is a pleasant town on the eastern boundary of Worcester County, thirty-two miles west of Boston by the railroad, which runs thronirli its centre. It lies in a kind of valley open toward the soutli, and bounded by (he hills of Berlin on the north, Boyiston and Shrewsbury on the west, AVe^t- burough on the south, and JNIarlborough on the east, This valley is finely Avatercd by the Assabet River, and its tributaries, Howard and Cold Harbor brooks, which nnite with the larger stream at the centre of the town. By Stirrup Brook, the waters of Chauncy and Bartlett ponds in the south-westerly part of the town find their way through a long swanij) into the Assabet. lu the northern part of the town are three parallel ranges — Ball Hill, Mount Pisgah and Sulphur Hill. In the centre is Mount Assabet, from the summit of which the spires of nearly twenty churches may be seen. In the south-east is Rock Hill. In the south-west is Tomliu Hill. Although Nortbborongh lies in a kind of valley, the reader will not conclude from this that the situation is unheallhful. Away back in post-glacial times, this was probably the bed of a primeval lake ; at any rate the subsoil is generally of gravel, aud the surface well drained. People attain to good old age within its borders. Northborough contains within its present limits 10,150 acres of strong and good soil. Its outline rotighl}' resembles an arrow-head, with the axis of great- est length running from north-east on Ball Hill to the south-west on the Assabet River, near the dwelling-house of Mr. Sidney Bigclow. The outer corners of the base are on the east at the farm of Mr. G. P. Heath, and on the west at the farm of Jlr. Ira Lawrence. • The autliDF would here acknowledge his indcV)tcdnes3 to the sketch of the history of North- l>orough, puhlished in 182G, by Eev. Joseph Allen, D. D. i EARLY INHABITANTS. 120 This town was not incorporated until Jan. 24, 17G6, but for the previon.s twenty-two years it really had a separate existence from the parent town, being set off as (ho second precinct or parish of Westijorougli, Oct. 20, 174-1. The town records commence at this list-namcd diite, and the people, by their struggles to build a meeting-house, and support a minister, and by their con- tinual gatherings on the Sabbath in a separate house of worship, were effectually divided from the parent town, though they still voted, paid their taxes and received a|)propriations for the support of schools and roads from the treasury of Wcstborough until 17(36. The oldest vestige of pioneer life still in existence and general use is nnquestioiiably the "great road" to Worcester, as it is still very properly called. The grant given to John Rediat in 1072 mentions an older road, but speaks of it as disused at the time the deed was given. One of the bounds of his grant was "the Nepmuck road ihat for me rl>/ led toward Coneticoat." This was the "old Conueticoat road," and led through the south-east part of the town over Rock Ilill and past Chauncy Pond. The al)ove-namod grant shows that in 1()72 this road had ceased to be used, and was already displaced by the "new Connecticut road," or, as it was afterwards called, "the post road." Though but a more foot or bridle path through the woods, it was the highway of com- munication between Boston and the western settlements. Let us stop and think of the throng that has traveled over its surface — the Indian, the jiioueer, the minute-men of Bunker Hill, Burgoyne's surrendered army, Wash- ington, Lafayette, the brilliant wife of Jerome Bonaparte, to say nothing of Ibc nameless host — and let us no longer deny respect to antiquity. The oldest settler known tD tradition is John Brigham, who, in 1(372, received a grant on "Licor Meadow plain, "and came at once, and built a saw-mill and a cabin, staying until fear of savages drove him away. IjcIow is a partial list of the early settlers ; the second column gives the names of persons living now on or near the same house-lots or other identifi- cations. The list is only partial, and covers the period from 1G72 till 1752 : .lohn r>ii<;liani, .... Parker, TwitchcU «& Co.'s saw-mill. Til imas Brigham. . . . . G. P. Heath. Samuel Gooilcnow, .... Wm. A. Darllett. Nalhanael 0:'.kes, .... Sam. JMcCluer ; Martin & Whitney parsonage. Simeon Howard, Sr., . . . Eliab Wooil, opp. old Orthodox raceting-house. Gcrshom Fay, Sr., . . . .On hill-side, west of East school-house. Capt. Jas. Eager,* .... Melntyrc Place — Mrs. Thompson. Dca. Matthias Rice, . . . Strattnn Place. Jacob Rice, ..... Centre Grammar School-house. * Capt. E.igor';i Louse when built was tlie only linniiin liabitatioa on tlii> now Connecticut road between .Samncl Goodenow's (sec al)OVo) and Rrookliold. Dr. Allen says it was (lie only lionse ex- cept the Indi.in village of Boggaclioag near Worcester, but this village was three miles soulli of (ho road. (See Mass. Historical Coll.. vol. I., p. 192.) This honso was afterwards used as tho first tavern in town and a garrison. C.ipt. Eager gave the land on which tho nieetiug-houso was erected. 130 TOWN OF NORTHBOROUGH. Rclzecl Eager, Chas. Potter. Silas Fay, ..... Simmons Farm. Dca. Isaac Tomlin, .... Mrs. George Davis. Ilezekiah Tomlilin Top of Tomlin Hill. Dea. Jonathan Livt-rmore, . . Asa Gage. Thomas Goodnow T. C. Wooihvard. Ephraim Allen J. A. Biidd. Adam llollowa)-, .... George II. Williams. Samuel Wood, .... Old Seaver Place, owned by Milo Ilildreth. Simeon Howard, Jr., . . . JadsonDay. The first church was organized by the f-ign;itino of ten names to the cove- nant, besides that of the pastor-clcct. Creed Iherc was none, and none was needed, for the Assembly's Catechism, which was taught in every farm-house and school-room, afforded an unquestioned standard of belief. As an illustra- tion of the poverty of the people at this time (May 21, 174(1), and their eager- ness for religious |)rivileges, it is interesting to note tiiat the ordination services took place in the meeting-house, although at the time of ordination it was des- titute of pulpit, pews, galleries, or even permanent lloors, and was lighteil only b}' rough oi)cuings in the unplastered walls. It was not completed till 175(), ten years after. The salary offered to Mr. Mart3'n is also interesting, and illustrates the beauties of an irredeemable paper currency. "£.50 in bills of the last emis- sion or £200 in Bills of the old tenor, or other bills of Public Credit equivalent to said sum ; also £300 Old Tenor money as a settlement." A pound, old tenor, equaled eighty-two cents. The original meeting-house — now moved from its old location, which was a little west of the present Unitarian Church, to make the central part of the barn of Mr. E. M. Norcross — had no bell, belfry, or even chimney. It was painted a dingy yellow, and had three doors, one each on the east, west and south sides, — doors which opened inward, and let in a great deal of cold air when they were opened. There was a tall pulpit over which was a sounding-board ; in front of the pulpit, facing the audience, were the deacon's seats; around the four walls and in the centi-e were tlie pews, high-backed and square, with half of the seats compelling one to sit back to the minister; overhead were the galleries, with the men on one side, and the women on the other. At noon, between services, some would go to the tavern and warm themselves by the blazing fire without, and, we fear, by a glass or two of spirit within, or to Mr. Ilolbrook's, who lived in the house next the residence of Mr. AVilder Bush, and who kept the saw-mill. The following is a list of the ministers of this chureh from tlic beginning to the present time : — John Jlartyn, born in Boston, 1706; Harvard College, 1724; ordained in Xorth- boroiigh, May 21, 1746. The interval between these dates he had spent in business pursuits. Died April 30, 17C7. */iti/r MINISTERIAL RECORD. 101 Peter Whitnej-, born Sept. G, IT-tt ; Harvard College, 17G2 ; ordaincil in Northborough, Nov. 4, I"!?. Mr. Whitney was the author of an excellent history of Worcester Count}'. He was a very motlif)dical man, always walking with his wife to meeting, followed by his ten children always in the exact order of their age. He was an easy- going man, perhaps more absorbed in the political issues of his day than in direct aggressive religious work. He died suddenly, Feb. 19, ISIG, afier a pastorate of forty- nine years. Joseph Allen, D. D., born in Medficld, Aug. 1.5, 1700; Harvard College, 1811 ; or- dained at Northborough, Oct. 30, ISlG; died in ripe old age, Feb. 23, 1873. Dr. Allen was a. remarkable man, — a peacemaker, and a cultivated scholar. He was widely known throughout his denomination as the author of several Sabbath School Question- Books ; and in town he exercised a i)owerful aad long contiinied influence. He had a deep interest in the prosperity and the culture of tliis town, and wrote its history up to the j-ear 182G. On the fortieth anniversary of his settlement he resigned the active labor of the pastorate, and the following clergymen were settled as his colleagues : — T. 15. Forbush. Jan. 1, 1858, to July 1, 18G3 ; H. L. Myriek, June 27, ISCG, to Oct. 1, 18C8 ; F. L. riosmer, Oct. 29, 1869, to Aug. 2.>, 1872. The next pastor was C. T. Irish, installed July 0, 1873, and resigned July I, 1870. The present pastor is II. F. Bond, who commenced labor April 1, 1877. This society has an e.\cellcnt mcetiiig-hoiisc, erected in 1808, at a cost of $10,000. They have a parsonage built in 1S7G, at a cost of $3,000, exclusive of the lanil. The Ijapti>t Church, consisting at the beginning of twent^'-scvon members, was formed July 2, 1827. This organization has also had two meeting-houses, both of which stood on the same site. The first was built in 1828. The pres- ent edi6ce was dedicated Nov. 28, 1850. This church has had frequent changes in the pastorate, having had fourteen pastors in the tifty-two years of its existence. Previous to 1848 the changes were so frequent and their stay in town was so .-hort, that the list of their names will not be of interest. We append the names of those who have held this ofBcc since 1848 : — Charles Farrar, 1848- 55 ; Silas Ripley, 185j-(i5 ; D. F. Lamson, 18G5-73 ; W. K. Dave}', 1873-77 ; E. L. Goddard, 1877-78. The present pastor is J. Tillson, who commenced labor hero December, 1878. This society has a parsonage purchased in 1SC8, at a cost of $1,800. The Evangelical Congregational Society was organized April 12, 1832, with thirty-five members. The pastors of this church are as follows : — Samuel A. Fay, 1832-3(J; Daniel II. Emerson, 183G-40; Joshua Bates, D. D., 1840-2; ■\Villiain A. Houghton, 1843-51; Samuel S. Ashley, 1852-04; George E. Sanborne, 18(15-70. Horace Dntton commenced his labors May, 1, 1870, and re>ign('d May 1, 1879. Tliis socii'ty has also had two meeting-houses, the first dedicated Oct. 17, 1832, now occupied as a dwcllinghousc by Capt. Lewis Kay; the second erected in 1847. The parsonage was purchased and reconstructed in 1873, at a total cost of $3,001). 132 TOWN OF NORTHBOROUGII. The following extract from our town records, dated April 13, 170G, (the year of incorporation) is of interest: — "Voted & allowed Thos. Goodcnow school-master for boarding himself nineteen weeks £3 IGs." As has been said, this man lived on the site now occupied by the house of Mr. Theodore C. Woodward. Dr. Allen says in his centennial discourse : — "Long before any school-houses had been erected, Master Goodcnow was accustomed toteai'h from house to house, a few weeks at a time in each, the precinct paying him four shillings a week for his board. At this date he was 57 years old." In 1770 the district was divided into four "sqiuidrons" or school districts. And in 1780, fourteen years after its incorporation, the district granted £4,000 in the greatly depreciated Continental currency, equal to $175 in coin, to build four scho(d-honses ; afterwards thei"e was an additional grant which amounted to $307 in hard money, so that each school-house cost in all $135. Tnteresting facts about these early nurseries of iutelligencc, the location and construction of the buildings, and the names of some of the teachers might bo given, but want of space alone forbids. No true child of New England is ever weary of recaHing the incidents of his school-time days. The first school-house in this town, erected as early as 1779, was the result of private enterprise. An association of citizens was formed, called tlie "Seminary Association," and the building was built by subscrii)tion, in thirty- five shares. It stood nearly opposite the old Orthodox mcetiug-house, now occupied as a dwelling-house by Capt. Lewis Fay. This seminary was sup- ported liy annual assessments of the shareholders, and if any children from families, outside the association, desired to share its privileges, they paid a fixed tuition. Master James Ilart was the teacher who seems to be remem- bered for his skill in penmanship. A number of documents relating to this association are still preserved. The seminar}' building stood in its original place for twenty-seven years. It had gradually become neglected, as tho>e who had constructed it pissed offtlio stage, and was finally used as a shccp-pen. In 1808 it was removed, and now forms the main part of the house of Mr. Dennis (" Altaraont") Eice. In 1820, the town for the first lime elected a school committee ; for the duty of superintending the schools had, before tliis, devolved upon tiie minister and selectmen. At the present time, in addition to four district schools, there are at the centre a grammar school-house, erected in 1837, and a high-school building, built in 1870. The appropriation for schools has risen from £11 ($30) in 1767, $750 in 1845, and $1,200 in 1855, to $3,200 in 1879. Northborough has produced an mmsually large number of tcacliers, and the town has a fair record in I'espect to education. "Among it educational Institutions the lyceum deserves a passing notice. It was among the earliest, if not the first formed in this county, and continued in active operation for more than thirty years, beginning with 1828. It was in LIBRARIES. 133 fact .1 free high school, aiitl, by its lectures aiul debates, did good service in the cause of popidai- education." Tlie honor of founding this institution belongs to Dr. Allen, Avhose words have just been quoted. In the year 1820, ho delivered a course of astronom- ical Icctui'cs which awakened great interest, and resulted in the formation of the lycenm. Within a few joars an attempt was made to revive this institution, but it does not seem to have succeeded very well for some reason. From the \-car 1793 until 18G7, when our Free Public Library was instituted, various attempts have been made, Avith more or less success, to suppl}' the citizens of ihis community with an abundance of attractive read- ing matter. We append a list of libraries which have been formed hei-e : Social Libranj, mentioned by Rev. Peter Whitney in his History of North- borough, and said to have been formed by about thirty gentlemicn, witli provisions for its annual increase; in 1793 it contained 100 volumes. Female Heligious Tract Societij (1817), finally merged into the Orthodox Sunday-school Library. Social Library (1817). Sixty young ladies met in a room in the meeting- house and sewed stiaw, tlius earning $100, which was spent for books. JV^orthborongh Free Libranj (1827). Founded by a donation of fifty volumes from Dr. Allen, and accepted by the churcii, with the promise that it should remain forever free to all, and be supported only by voluntary contri- butions. The old .Social Library was afterwards merged with this, and thus enlarged, it contained moro than four hundred volumes. Young Men's Libranj, kept in Gale & Davis's store, afterwards in the Arcade Building. Finally sold at auction. School District Libranj. In 1843 the (own accepted a donation of $90 from the State of Massaclinsetts, and purchased with this sum a library for each school district. The intention was that each library should pass from school to school in rotation, but this arrangement proving unsatisfactory, the six libraries were merged into one, and kept at flio store of Mr. George Barnes. Finally incorporated with the Public Lil)rary. Agricultural Library (August, 1857). The books of tliis were also given to the next ; viz. : — Free Public Library, which contains, at present, 4,G08 volumes. Added last year, 318. Income for 1877-78, $'>-13.47. Fund, $1,125. In the year 18GI), the centenni:d year, Hon. Cyrus Gale and Hon. Jlilo llildretli oflered, the one $1,000 and the other $250 to the town, for a [jublic library, jirovided that a suitable town hall should be built, and a room furnished for the books in the new building. This offer was accepted, and the hall was built at a cost of $35,000. The fund thus created was afterwards increased in various ways, especially by a gift of $1,000 — $500 in cash and $500 in books, the latter of which arc for the most part yd to be received — from the lion. Isaac Davis of Worcester, a native of this town. 134 TOWN OF NOETHBQROUGH. CHAPTER 11. CIVIL niSTOIlV THE REVOLUTION AND THE LATER WARS MANUFACTURES EARLY MILLS IRON FORGE AND FOTASII AVORKS PRESENT FACTORIES LARGE DEVELOPMENT OF INDUSTRY EMINENT CITIZENS. In the olil Frcncli wars at \va>i tliirtppii went from this small precinct ; (bree joined the expedition to Halifax in 1751; two were at Crown Point in 1755; and eight were with the iirmy under Gen. Abercrombic in his defeat before Ticonderoga. (See Allen's History for particulars.) With regard to the Kevolutionary war, our town records from 1773 to 1780 furnish ami)le evidence that the people of this small communit}- were fully awake to the situation. The following commuuication appeared in the "^Massachusetts Gazette," Feb. 17, 1773: — " AVe hear from Shrewsbury that one day last week a pedlar was observed to go into a tavern with a bag containing about 30 lbs. of tea. Informaliou of which being liad at Northborougli a com|)any of" [young men disguised as] " Indians went from the Great Swamp or thereabouts, and seized upon it, and committed it to the flames in the road facing said tavern, until it was entirel}' consumod." It was (en months after this act of those young men of Xorlhborongh, viz., Dec. IG, 1773, tJiat three hundred chests of tea were thrown overboard in Boston harbor by a party of so-called " Indians." Some time before the war broke out a company of fifty minute-men was raised among this commuuity, and it was while this company was gathering upon the common, at 1 p. M., April 19, 1776, that a messenger came with the tidings on his lips that blood had been shed that day at Concord. Instantly the whole village became the scene of hurried preparation, and it is related that a niece of Capt. Samuel Wood, who was also the mother of Dea. Samuel Wood now living, sat ui) all of the next night to assist in easting bullets, and that next day a daughter was born to her, who afterwards became the wife of At^aph Rice. The company met the next morning in front (^f what is now well known as the old Seaver house, which was at that time the residence of Capt. Woods, and from there marched to the camj) at Cambridge, and afterwards took part in the battle of P>unkcr Hill. The pay-roll and other papers of this compan}' are still |)rcservcd, and are in the possession of Dea. S. W. Norcross. The small iumd>er of Tories in town and the state of feeling toward them arc best illustrated by the following : — " To the Gentlemen Selectmen A Comm. of Corref:pondcncc for the Town of Northbjrough : The petition of Sylvanus Billings Humbly Shcwcth that he is desirous to settle with this town & is willing to confess his faults. lie owns that he has been backward and unfriendly in not defending this Countiy against the Brittish Power ; he owns that he PATRIOTIC SPIRIT. 135 was unfi'icndly in not bringing Caleb Green to Justice who was a notorious villain anil an enemy to his country : to this & all other of his faults in this matter he is heartily sorry for, & humbly asks forgiveness of the goorl people of this Town & so is willing to submit a peaceable & reasonable settlement: He desires that you wd hear his petition & take it into your wise consideration & restore him into friendship again, as in duty bound shall pray. This from your most ol)edient and well wishing friend, who I)romises in future to be a good member of Society. [Sg] SiLVAXUS Billings. "Mch. 23d, 1780." Northborougb was .always strongly opposed to the system of slaveiy, and, amongst other things, claims the honor of being the first to call for the convention which resulted in the formation of the Free-Soil party. It is, doubtless, true that the universal feeling of disgust throughout New Eng- land at the pro-slavery proclivities of the nominees of both the Democratic and the Whig parties made this a spontaneous movement ; but still it is true that Capt. C^TUs Gale of Northborough was the first to draw up a call for a convention, and to take it, in company with Samuel Clark, Esq , to the office of the "Whig" ncwsjjaper, edited by Chas. Francis Adams. The original call, jirinted as a hand-bill, and bearing the signature of ono hundred and seventy- two names, is in the possession of the author of this sketch. A similar earnest spirit of patriotism was shown iu the war of the Rebellion. Immediately after President Lincoln made his first call for troops, a citizens' meeting was held, at which resolutions were adopted showing an intense determination to uphold the government. And, in the legal meetings wliic-h followed, the town showed that the resolutions of the previous mass meetings were not empty words of momentary enthusiasm, but were the indications of a deep-settled purpose. It is worthy of note, that for one year the j)ay granted to volunteers from this town and their families was considerably in excess of what was allowed by law. The auihority for this statement is Schoulor's History of Massachusetts in the liel)ellion, which is also responsible for the following statistics : — "The number of men furnished bj" Norllibornugh for tiie war was 140, which was a surplus of 9 over and above all demands. Two were commissioned otRcers. The total amount of money appropriated and expended by the Town on account of the war. exclusive of State aid, was SiO,C47..'J7. The State aid to soldiers' families, afterwards repaid by the State, amounted to 88,8-10.70." The ladies of this town were also very patriotic, taking their sowing- machines from their homes to the churches and working together in making clothing. They also prepared and scut many bo.xes of provisions to our boys in the army. One of our clergymen, tho Rev. S. 8. Ashley, was so luuth absorbed in this conflict Ihit ho resigned his charge and joined tho Christian Commission, where he labored in hospital and camp ibr the [ihysical comfort and religious instruction of our soldiers, and has, since the completion 136 TOWN OF NORTHBOROUGH. of the war, given his whole time and strength to eff'orts for the elevation of the colored people of the South, having been Snperintendent of Pulilic Instruction for the State of North Carolina, and President of Straight University, New Orleans, La. To commemorate these scenes of the war, and especially to perpetuate the memory of those who never returned to their homes and kindred, the town, in the _> ear 1809, erected a Soldiers' Monument, at a cost of $3,000. It is a fine shaft of granite, surmounted by the figure of an eagle, standing upon a suitable base, upon which are inscribed the names of twenty-five deceased soldiers. A Post of the Grand Army of the Republic also exists in town, organized Jriuc 18, 18()!), having at present twenty-five members. The beginning of mill-work and mechanical industry was very early indeed, as we sec by the following action of the local authorit^y : "Nov. 15, 1744, Voted that Precinct meetings for the Futuer should be warned by two notifica- tions, posted up, one at Ephraim Allen's mill, & y" other at Bczeleel Eager's." Kphraim Allen had a grist-mill (the first in town) at the upi)er end of D. F. Wood's mill-pond. The remains of his dam may still be seen. The clothiers' business was commenced in town by Samuel Wood, who came from Sudbury and started in a small way in the old Seaver house, in the lower story, while he and his family lived in the second story. lie must have moved to town as early as the year 17.50, as he was precinct clerk in 1751. At first he simply fulled the cloth brought to him from the different farm-houses, after- wards ho added a dyeing and coloring department. The business descended in due course to his two sons, Capt. Samuel and Cajit. Al)raham Wood, and they in turn transferred it to Dea. Samuel Seaver, father of Mr. A. W. Scavcr, by whom the business was continued, first in the western L of the Seaver house, then in what is now the rear end of the manufactory of lion. ^lilo llil- dreth, and then, having sold the llildreth shop to Capt. Thomas Lyon, in tlio lower shop. Rev. Peter Whitney, in his sketch of Nortliborough, speaks of this fulling- mill (then in the old Seaver house), and states that, at that time (1703), "about seven thousand yards of cloth are annually dressed, and the work is most acceptably performed to the honor and advantage of the town and the interest of the community." This locality, where the Assabot River crosses the post road, seems to have been at that time the business centre of the town ; for, he adds, that, — "On the opposite side of tlic road are works for the manufacture of iron, where man}' tons have Itcen made. There is in tiie vicinit}- a great plenty' of ore, especially of the bog kind.* Near the forge are works for the maniifacture of potash, owned liy Dr. Stephen Ball, where large quantities arc manufactured yearly. " This was a poor luud of ore, found in marshy lands. The iron was washed down iu a sol- iiablo form, and precipitated Iiy evapor.ition of the water. It was so brittle as to bo called "cob" iron. Tools made from this ore were necessarily large and clumsy and apt to break vexa- lioiisly, and thus stop a day's work. OLD HOMESTK-Vn OP ]!KV. I'lmUl WItlTXKV, NOltTTIHOnoVOll , MASS. (Tlic liistoi-hiii of Worcester County. Built iu 1780.) EARLY INDUSTRIES. 137 At this time, according to Mr. Whitney's sketch, Nurthborough was, — "A great resort from all neighboring towns to the corn and saw mills, to the fulHng- mill and forge and to the blacksmiths for their work of various kinds, as well as to the shops and stores." Tiio same aiithorit}' gives an amusing illustration of the knowledge of mechanics existing at that time. He speaks of a notable mechanical contriv- ance in Northborongh : A man named Maj. Ilolloway Taylor (at the "George Williams" place), had actually conducted water from a spring on a hill to his barn, by means of bored logs ( I), laid deep enough under ground to enable the plow to pass above them ; and lest any one should doubt his veracity, and thus injure his reputation as a minister, he explains that water may be made to run up and down hill, provided one does not endeavor to raise it above the source from which it proceeded. The tanning and currying business has been carried on in the south part of this town by three generations of a very marked and intluential family. As early as the year 1778, Isaac Davis came from the town of Rutland, Mass., for the i)urposc of giving instruction in the art of tanning leather to certain young men. He lived at first in what is known as the "old Ben Fay place," in West- I)orough. Concluding to stay', he carried on a prosperous business until his death, when it descended to his sons, — "Col. Joe" and "Master Phin," as they were funiliarly called — by whom it was greatly extended and increased. Hides were purchased by them throughout all this region, from Rhode Island and from foreign countries. They also carried on the manufacture of boots and shoes quite extensively, putting out the work as the custom then was. Dr. Allen, in his history (182G) states that their annual sales of leather amounted to $20,000. After their death the business was carried on to some extent by Mr. George C. Davis, until within a few years of his death. The business of carding wool by machinery was introduced into town by Dea. Seth Grout, who came to town about the year 1800, aud at first carried on the manufacture of nails in the old iron-foundry on the site of tiie bone-mill of Mr. Root ; soon, however, changing to the above-mentioned branch of industry in which he continued until the year 1813. The year 1814 marks a new era in the manufacturing history of Norlhbor- ongii. Amidst great opposition, a stock company, called the Northborongh jMannfacturing Com[iany, was formed in this place for the purpose of making cotton and woolen cloth. The privilege now owned by Mr. D. F. Wood, was liurchased, and a mill was erected at a total expense of about $30,000. Dr. Allen (1820) states that this mill manufactured eighty thousand yards of cloth annually. This enterprise did not thrive, and passed through a number of hands until, in 18GG, it was purchased by Mr. D. F. Wood, under whoso management aud that of his son, it has been very profitable. The lower mill was built of brick, in 1832-33, by the brothers Phineas, Joseph and Isaac VOL. II. -13 138 TOWN OF KORTIIBOKOUGII. Davis, at a cost of $30,000. The business was earned on and finally owned by the last named gentleman. After various vicissitudes this properly was finally purchased by Messrs. C. T. Chapin & Son, who at first manufactured cott(jn cloth, l)ut after a severe fire in 18G9, they commenced the manufacture of satinets, since which lime the business has been vcr^' prosi)crous. These two miils of Messrs. "Woods and Chapin constitute at the present time perhaps the principal manufacturing interest of Norlhl)orougli. They each cmph)y from seventy-five to one liundred hands, and the monthly pay-roll of each is about $2,000. They each niauufacturc difi'ercnt vaiietics of cloth, the produc- tion of each averaging al)out ten thousand yards per week, more or less, according to the value of the cloth made and the briskness of Iho muiket. They arc each sup[)lied with powerful steam-engines, and with abundant means for extinguishing fire should it arise. The comb manufacture in Northboi'ough was commenced by Messrs. Ilaynes & Bush, in 183!), and for the ten or twelve years following the business was much increased. Some six new firms engaged in it, and coml) manufacturing became, for the time being, the prominent industry of the town, giving employ- ment to from one hundred to one hundred and fift\' persons. At the present time this business is carried on to a limited c.Ktent by Messrs. Parker, Twitchell &Co. The manufacture of tortoise-shell jeweby was comnieni'ed here iu 18G0, by Mr. Milo Ilildreth, and continued to the present lime, with munufactuie of horn goods. From fifteen to thirty hands are employed, and a business of from $20,000 to $50,000 is done. Two other firms have recently commenced the mannf ictnre of shell jewelry — Messrs. Yates & Co. and Mr. Walter M. Farwell. The milk-contracting business was commenced here in 18GG, l)y C. Brigham & Co., and has been continued to the present time. They run a milk-train from Pratt's Junction to South Fiamingham, stopping at every station, gather- ing at the present time a little short of one thousand cans daily, selling the same in Boston the next morning. The corset-stitching business was commenced here in 1877, and is at present carried on by Messrs. "Waterman & Meyer of New York city. AI)ont fifty girls are employed at the i^resent time, and the intention is to increase the number to seventy-five or one hundred. Further space will only be taken to say, that there are in town two dry- goods and grocery stores, Messrs. Samuel Wood, Jr., & Co. and Jlessrs. J. Wadsworth & Co., and a grain and coal store, Messrs. C. Brigham & Co. There is also a national bank, capital, $100,000; AVildcr Bu^h, president, and A. W. Seaver, cashier. This sketch may be appropriately closed with a short list of the various citi- zens of Northl)orougli who have held distinguished civil positions. Many more might be added if greater space were available. WORTHY CITIZENS. 1.39 John Davis, LL. D., born in Nortliborough, Jan. 13, 1787, cliccl in Worccs- tci-, Apiil 19, 1854. An able lawyer, a member of Congress, and a goveiiior of Massacluisetts, 1833-35 and 1840-41. lie bore the soubriquet of " Hon- est John Davis." Isaac Davis, LL. D., born in Noithborongh, June 2, 1790, still living, attor- ney at law in Worcester ; member of Massachusetts House ami Senate: fourth mayor of the city of Worcester ; of the governor's council, 1853-51. Cyrus Gale, born in Westlwrough, Oct. 7, 1785, still living; in M:issachu- setts IIousj of Representatives. 1842-43; of governor's council, 1852-53. ]\Iilo Hildreth, born in Townscnd, Mass., Aug. 17, 1824; in Massachusetts House of Representatives in 1858; in ilassachusetts Senate 18G5 ; of the governor's council in 1872; retired from the council in 1875. 140 TOWN OF NORTHBRIDGE. NORTHBRIDGE BY REV. ABIJAII P. MARVIN. CHAPTER I. PHYSICAL CHARACTER — INCORPORATION — EARLY MINISTERS — FEELING IN THE REVOLUTION LATER DEVELOPMENT — LOCAL INDUSTRIES BOOT AND SHOE TRADE COL. PAUL WHITIN INCREASE AND PROSPERITY OF THE TOAVN. The town of Northbridge was incorporated Jnly 14, 1772. It was originally within tbc Iiounds of Mcndon. Wlien Uxbridge was incorporated, in 1727, June 27, Northbridge formed the norlhoru part of that town. It was then about five miles in length and four in width. The boundary lines have since been changed in some places, but the size of the town has not been materially altered. It contains from sixteen to twenty square miles of land and water. The boundaries are as follows : On the north by Grafton ; north-east by Upton ; south by Uxbiidgc; and west by Sutton. The centre of the town is eleven miles from "Worcester court-house by direct line. Its latitude is 42° 8'. The distance from AVhitinsville to Worcester by the Providence and Worcester Railroad is not far from sixteen miles. In old times the great road from Boston to Connecticut passed through ^Icudon, Northbridge and Oxfuid, and the road from Providence passed through Northbridge. The Blackstoue River runs the whole length of the town on the north-eastern side, and about a mile from the border. Muniford River and several natural ponds and great reservoirs water the south-west section of the town. These flow easterly to Whitinsville and to the railroad station, about midway of the southern line of the town. The borders of these rivers and ponds are intervale, meadow or level upland, but the larger part of the town is hilU". The whole tract west of the Blackstone and north of the Mumford, and the whole length of the section east of the main river, arc considerably elevated, and in parts quite rocky. The soil is of average fertility, and rewards diligent and skilful labor. Whitney said, in 1703, that there were "no stagnant waters or ponds in the town," but it was " finely watered by springs, streams and rivers." He wrote also that the "lands in general are high, the air is salubrious, and the inhabitants have been blessed with creat health from the first settlement of the SUPPORT OF THE GOSPEL. 141 place." Since then largo reservoirs have been formed in the south-west of the town, but they have had no perceptible effect on t!ie healthfulncss of the region. The geological formation is termed gneissic, and largo quantities of uood granite have been quarried in times past. The yield is still profitable, and, being near the raiiwa}', the cost of transportation is reasonable. Formerly, iron-ore was found in spots ; there was a furnace in what is now AYliiiinsvillc, near the present grist-mill, before the year 1720. The "old forge " stood on the site of the present brick mill, but there was a still older one a little east of that place. The incorporation of the town grow out of the religious wants of the people. Says Rev. Lewis F. Clark, in his Discourse : " Jlost of the people residing here had been in the habit of attending meeting in Uxbridgc. But on account of their great distance from the place of worship, they desired to be incorporated as a separate town, so that they might have a church organization and the ordi- nances of the gospel by themselves." Col. Johu Spring, father of Rev. Dr. Spring of Newburyport, aud grandfather of the late Rev. Dr. Gardiner Spring of New York, headed the petition to the General Court. The people clearl}^ showed their estimate of religious institutions by their action in town meeting. Seven out of nine articles in the warrant had reference to a house of worship. Early in 1773 it was voted " to hire some suitable person or persons to preach." For a year or two the meetings were held in private houses. lu 1771 the meeting-house was built in the centre. The pews, or " pew-spots " as they were called, that is, places where jiews might be placed, were sold at auction, Feb. 24, 1775, to si.xteen purchasers, on whom the chief burden of sustaining public worship was laid. The war of the Revolution soon absorbed public attention, aud taxed severely the resources of the people ; but during all that period it is on record that "they never neglected to make provision for their own religious instruction." In (ho warrant for a town meeting, which was held nine days previous to the Declaration of Independence, there were two articles of historical importance. The tirst was "to sec if the town will vote to support the Continental Congress with their lives and fortunes, if thoy should declare the American Colonies independent of Great Britain"; and the other was to see "how much money the}' will grant aud raise for the support of the Gospel this present j'oar." During the first nine years of the town's existoncc there was no church organization, and no settled minister. The Rev. Aaron Bliss, a gi-aduato of Yale College iu 17(50, was the preacher in 1780, and probabi}' in a part of the year before and the jear after. Iu Jul}', 1780, it was voted " to grant forty- five pounds, silver mono}', to pay Jlr. Bliss for preaching." On the Gth of June, 1782, the church was organized with eight members. Five were males and three were females. The day was observed as a special season of fast- ing, humiliation and prayer. The new church held a meeting, eleven days 142 TOAVX OF XORTIIBRIDGE. later, !it llio house of Mnj. David Batchellcr, and tlion "proceeded and chose Mr. John Crane for their elect pastor by a nnanimoiis vote." The town was notified of the choice, and in legal meeting gave its concurrence. Mr. Crane Avas ordained on the 25th of June, 1783, at the age of twcnt\--scven, and he continued in the pastorate of the church and people nearly fift^- years. In 1832, January 5, he sent the following note to the church: "Brethren of tlic church, I now resign my ofScc as pastor antl teacher, and relinquish tlic ministry in this place forever." Dr. Crane was born in Norton, March 2G, 175(). His family l)elonged to the Society of Friends, and his carl}- training was in accordance with their tenets and habits of life. IIo was graduated at Harvard College in 1780, and Avas tlic onl}* one of his class who entered the ministr}-. The Rev. Dr. A'athanicl Emmons of Franklin was his theological instructor. Says the Rev. Mr. Clark: "He was regarded bj- his people, during the whole period of his ministry, Avith the greatest veneration and affection." Soci.il, companionable, and usually very cheerful, yet he was sometimes subject to great depression of spirits. His tender sympathies and his conversation, which was both pleasant and instructive, made him a welcome visitor in the fomilies of his parish. He could turn a joke and drop a witty repartee in such a way as to reprove without wounding, and yet not detract from the dignity of his ofEce. In addition to his pastoral duties, he received students into his fiiraily, where they Avere either prepared for college or for teaching. More than a hundred in all were under his tuition and guidance at different times, some of whom became men of distinction. Dr. Crane was an excellent pastor, as well as an able and instructive preacher. Without the graces of orator^', his sermons made a permanent impression. One of his peculiarities AA-as that when ho said a pointed or severe thing, either in the pulpit or in private, lie "uttered it with closed eyes." One Avho heard him more than twenty years, said. "He was unlike any other preacher Avith whom I was ever acquainted ; I can even now remember many of his sermons, and the manner of his treatment of his subjects, although preached more than fifty years ago." There Avere several periods of speclid religious interest dining his ministry, and, in the last year of his pastorale, fifty-four were added to the church by profession of their faith. He Avas di>:- missed on the 14th of March, 1832, by a council, and on the 1st of September, 183G, in (he eighty-first year of his age, ho AA'as called to his reward. His long period of service as a faithful minister, and the influence he exerted in promoting all the interests of the connnunit}' would jiislif}- a more extended notice. As the town began its municipal history in (he period when the Revolution was brewing, so the people jjartook largely of (he spirit of their patriotic countrymen. The first fourteen town meetings Averc held in private houses. The first meeting, which considered matters pertaining to the coming outbreak, Avas held Aug. 2j, 1774, Avhen a committee Avas chosen "to correspond Avith WIUTINSVILLK COTTON MILLS, WHITINSVU.Li:, MASS. THE WHITIX MACHIXK WOUKS, WHITIXSVILLK, MASS, EEVOLUTIONARY DAYS. 143 other committees concerning public affairs as occasion shall call for." At the same meeting it was voted, that "David Batchcller be chose to provide for a town stock of ammunition, viz., one barrel of powder, and lead and flints answerable to it." It was also voted not to import or consume English goods. The last town meeting wai-ned in his majesty. King George's name, was dated Jan. 10, 1775. The act of calling a meeting of the town, without the royal authorit}', may now seem an insignificant aflair, but then it was an act of darincr. It was a declaration of independence before the declaration of the Colonial Congress, and it meant renunciation of allegiance to the king of Eng- land. From the opening of the Revolution till the autumn of 1781, when the victory at Yorktown made an end of the war, the business in town meetings related in large measure to the needs of the public service. It was voted to pay men who enlisted in the army ; to provide provisions and clothing for their own men in the field, and to aid those who had hired men to take their l)lace in the scenes of war. Labor was performed on the farms of those who were absent. The burdens of the war were equalized as for as pos- sible. At one meeting the vote was "to raise 40 pounds to pay for shirts, shoes and stockings furnished by the selectmen for the soldiers in the Conti- nental service." At another time money was raised to pay four men "for carrying provisions to Roxbur}' at the time of the alarm at Lexington." Six- teen men were in the service, in the year 1775, in addition to those who hurried to Lexington, and soon returned home, when the alarm was over, and the army was being organized. The town had its proportion in the field during the war. Some were three years' men. John Hopkins, Amos While and others died in the army. In some cases when a man was drafted, his son, under military ago, went as a sidjstitute. Israel Taft enlisted in this way when less than t-ixteen years old. "lie urged his parents to permit him to take his father's place, and was in the service at West Point, and at other places on the Hudson." The num'ier of men in the army during the war was one hundred and twenty-eight, some of whom were in the vicinity of Boston before the British evacuated ; some were in the expedition to Canada; some were at Ticonderoga ; some in the noi'thrrn army at the time of Burgoync's surrender; some at New York, Peek-kiil, and West Point, and others in other places guarding stores, or contending with the foe. Among these were Capt. David Batchellcr, Capt. Josiah Ward, and Lieut. James Fletcher, whose descendants have been prominent in the town. AVhen Whitney published his history in 1793, there was a Baptist Society in the town, consisting of about ten families, but " destitute of an}- settled teacher." There were also twelve families of Quakers, whose descendiints have main- tained their organization to the present time. They built a meeting-house in 1776, and a new one in 1804, still in use by them, near Blackstone River. At the date above given, the people of the town subsisted chietly l)y farming, ;ind were industrious and flourishing, and it was said that there was "hardly an idle 144 TOAVX OF KORTIIBRIDGE. person, or ii tavern liniinlcr in the place." Farming continued to be the chief employment for another generation, though the trades common to that period of our history were pursued. Carpenters, blacksmiths and masons are always a necessity, and it is always convenient to have them near at hand. As the history of Northbridge, since the era of the Revolution, is chiefly the history of the rise and extension of various branches of business, con- sidcral)lc space will be given to that subject. As staled already, the first busi- ness in the iron line was at a sliop in what is now Whitiusville, which shop stood east of the site of tlie brick-mill. This was started as early as 1729. Here wrought iron was made from scrap and pig iron. It is not known whether this business was kept up without interruption, but it is known that it was in operation about the time of the incorporation of the town, in 1772, and the manufacture of iron was continued till about 1815, when the works were owned by James Fletcher and Paul "Whitin, Sr., under the firm-name of Wiiitni & Fletcher. They bought tiie establisliment of Ezra AVood of Upton, Avho was the father of Mrs. Fletcher. A foundry, located at Northbridge Centre, was operated as early as 1790, by a man named Lathrop, where pots, kettles, andirons and sad-irons were made. At a later day the making of axes was pursued at the same place. The cotton-spinning business was begun in "Whitiusville as early as 1809, when the Northbridge Manufacturing Company was organized through the influence of Col. P.iul Whitin, who had erected the building, and procured a portion ot the machinery. The company commenced in a building which is now use as a saw-mill and v.-ood shop, and has been moved from its original location to make room for the foundry. The establishment had successive owners, and only moderate success until it was purchased, in 1831, by Paul Whitin & Sons. The Blackstone River, in the cast part of the town, furnishes abundant water power, which was early put to use. At first grain and saw mills were set up, but early in the present century the making of woolen goods was commenced at what is now Rctckdale. Not long after — 1814 — the Northbridge Cloth Com- pany was chartered. This was situated at Rockdale, and was owned by Jesse Eddy and William Kendrick. The property was sold, in 1851, to Sylvanus Ilolbrook, who controlled it until August, 1851, when a largo portion was destro^'od by fire. In 1851, the property remaining, and also that atRiverdale, was bought by P. "Whitin & Sons. The late lion. Daniel Waldo of Worcester became one of the principal stockholders, and the late John Waldo Lincoln, ])rother of Gen. Levi Lincoln, was at one time the agent of the corporation. A linseed-oil mill had previously' stood near the site of the Riverdale f.ictoiy. Both establishments, at Rockdale and Riverdale, came, about 1820, into the possession of Sylvanus Ilolbrook, who manufactured cotton goods for many years. Dining his ownership both mills had about five thousand spindles running. Regard to the order of time leads us back to the orisjin of several other "LlNWUCni .MILL," WIIITIN KUOTIIEBS, WHITIXSVILLE, MASS. .VI, %VUITIS M'K'O t>,.-S MILL (UOCKUALL), NOKTlimaDO.;, MASS. BOOT AND SHOE BUSINESS. 145 branches of business, before proceeding with the great increase of population, production and wealth in W'hitinsvillo. There have been several tanners and curriers in the town, in former times, from the opening of the century down to the year ISGl. In the Centre, Oliver Adams was engaged in this industry previous to ISOo, when John Hall took the establishment, and conducted it several years. On the east side of the river, Joshua Congdon was engaged in tho same business between Rockdale and Riverdale, previous to 1825. Charles and Derby Cigelow were engaged in the cnrryirig business at Adams' Corner before 1832, after which David Mowry used the same premises a few years. He was followed by Robinson & Rice, who employed a few hands, and continued in partnership until 1843, when they dissolved, and worked in separate places. Two or three others continued the business in the town until 18G8. Tho coopering business was followed, many years ago, by David Batchcller and others. They were in the habit of making as many barrels as could be carried on a large ox-wagon, and then sending them to Boston, Providence and other cities and towns for sale. During many years, the boot and shoe business was engaged in by a large numlier of persons, though fev/, if any of them, had such large establishments as are common now in the towns where the business flourishes. It is related of the earlier shoemakers that it was their custom to "go about to the houses of the families, for whom they proposed to work, carrying their 'kit' in saddle- bags, using an inverted wash-tub for a bench, and a stool for a seat, shoe up that family, then tramp for the next customer." And here it may be amusing to remind young readers that shoes were much less worn by formei- genera- tions. Some boj's still enjoy the pleasant freedom of going barefoot in sum- mer; but, in old times, it was uncommon to see a boy in country towns wearing shoes in tho warm season, and the warm season was drawn out at great length, and extended weeks beyond the first frosts of autumn. More- over, it was a part of iho economy of older persons — men and even women — to do without shoes a part of the year; and on Sundays it was the custom for children and youth of either sex to waik baiefoot towards the meeting-house, on Sunday morning, till they drew near tho immediate neighl)orhood, when they put on stockings and shoes before meeting the crowd or entering the sanctuary. Returning, they doffed shoes and stockings when far enough on their way, and reached home in the guise in which they started. "Others would wear a poorer pair until Ihoy arrived nearly to tho meeting; then cbauge for the best." Passing by the time when boots and shoes were made for custom work only, and coming down to the date wlien they were manufactured to be sold to deal- ers by tho case, it appears that Cheney Taft began tho business about 1810. His shop was in tho old centre of the town. IIo made what was in those days styled "nigger shoes" in the summer, and in the winter went South to sell VOL. 11—19 146 TOWN OF NORTHBKIDGE. them. This wns in the evil times when the word negro wiis spelled with two gs, since which time there has been a gre:iter icvoiiition in politics than in business. Other workers in this line weie : John W. Sloconib, Joseph Lclnnd, the brothers Josiah, Welcome and Jacol) Adams, and Francis Ilemonway. The latter made men's brogans and women's shoes for the trade as well as cus- tom boots. In 1824, he began to emi)lo3' hands, — four or five in his shop, besides others outside. From this time — about 1825 — the business was car- ried on in different parts of the town by many persons, none of whom did a large amount of work ; but the aggregate production was quite large. Some of the manufacturers had shops, and others w^)rked in their own dwelling- houses. As long ago as 1837, Barber, in his " ^i^to^ical Collections," states that "there were six hundred pairs of boots and fift\--three thousand five hun- dred pairs of shoes manufactured," valued at fift}' thousand dollars. The males employed were seventy-five, and the females were twenty. This business was followed b\' manj' in a nu)dcrate way down to the year 18(10, when it was in few hands. Th(> principal manufacturer at Ibis time was -loci Bachelor, who commenced in 1827, and contiinied the business nearly fit'fy years. lie con- stantl}' increased the quantity of goods manufactured, and built, in 1807, a large factory, in which, in the year 1871, was turned out a large amount of work. The number of pairs of shoes for the year was seventeen thousand two hmidred and eighty : tiie number of pairs of boots for the j'ear was ninety-five thousand. The value of the animal product of boots and shoes was $308,480. By the State census of 1875, this business has been reduced in amount. But the business men of the town, by way of eminence, belong to the Whitin family, of whom the head was Col. Paul AVhitin. From him and his enter- prise tiic village of Whitinsville had its origin and name. Paul Whiliii, or Whiting, as the name was originally, was born in Roxbury, Dec. 3, 1707. He was the son of Nathaniel and S.irah (Draper) Whiting. Why the final letter in the name was dropped is not known. It coul 1 not have been because the name was not respectable, as it has been honoraltle in all generations of New England history. His father died when he was quite j-onng, and his niother married James Prentice, who lived in Norlhbridge. In boyhood, he was apprenticed to a blacksmith named Jesse White. His opportunities for education must iiavc been very limited, as it is said that his whole attendance at school did not probably exceed six months. But ho could read and think. IIo had .a sound mental constitution, though his physical system was weak when his apprenticeship was finished, and for several years later. He had a strong desire to learn, and his mind fixed upon that which was useful. Says the Rev. Lewis Clark : " He struggled with and overcame dJlBculties to whicli most wf)uld have yielded. By perseverance and :\ diligent improvement of those intervals of lab:)r that many young men spend in idleness, he acquired a good knowledge of those branches of study necessary for the successful prose- cution of business. A l)ook for aiding him in acquiring a correct use of COL. PAUL WIIITIN. 147 language was always by biin. lie was as familiar wilh this as with the tools of iiis shop." This was an excciicnt method of discipline, as it led to pre- cision of thought as well as of expression. By degrees, he gained tlic public confidence, which increased during liis whole life. He was chosen town clerk at the age of twenty-eight years, and was continued in the office thirteen years in succession. Ilis services in other town offices were often sought and obtained. Thongii of a quiet and undemonstrative turn, and averse to show and parade, he was an excellent military officer, and rose through the successive grades to the rank of colonel. He was a justice of the peace, and was often urged to be a candidate for the General Court, but business engagemcnls induced him to decline. A proof of his industry and economy is seen in the fact that, whatever time ho spent in military or official duties, he always made up by extra l:d);)r in his regular business. Such a man was sure to succeed i:i life, provided his life was prolonged. To those who are prudent, industrious and prayerful, the road to prosperity and eminence is as straight and plain as the "road to the mill." Such was the character and such the success of Paul "Whitin. The qualities which secured success to Mr. Whitin made him a useful member of societ}'. His influence did not promote vice and immorality, but fostered industry, frugality, education, Sabbatli observance, and all the insti- tutions of religion. And his wife was lifted to aid and encourago him in cver3thing which developed his own character, or was calculated to buiid u[) the community. She was the daughter of Col. James Fletclicr, one of the leading men of the town. It is related that, when young Wliitin sought her hand, the suit was not encouraged by her father, on the ground of his feeble health. "He will not be able to support a wife," said parental wisdom. " Then I will support him," was the spirited reply ; and she was as good as her word. Though the husband was amply able to support wife and family, the wife aided him in every way to achieve success and reputation. She was his counsellor in all his affairs ; and when he was taken awa}-, and his four sons succeeded to an extensive business, her advice was sought and followed in all matters of importance, whether in relation to the family, or to busine^;s, or to objects of benevdicuee. The description of the wise and good woman in the closing chai)tcr of Proverbs found a remarkable exomplilieation in her: "The htvirt of her husband doth safely trust in her. . . . Her children arise up and call her blessed." Paul Whitin followed the business to which ho was bred, and by steady attention to the calling of a blacksmith acquired a competence, brought up a fiimily, and added greatly to the growth and general welfare of the town. Two of his sons, Paul, Jr., and John C, were taken into partnership in 182G. This firm was engaged in cotton manufactures. Soon after, John C. Whitin invented a picker which much facilitated the manufacture of cotton into cloth, and enabled the firm of Paul Whitin & Sons to compete successfully wilh 148 TOWN OF NORTHBEIDGE. others in cotton-spinning. Col. Wliitin died Feb. 8, 1831, in the sixty-fourth ye.ar of his age, by which time the business was firmly established. The firm- name was continued, Charles P. and James Whitin becoming members. In 1847 the first large machine-shop of John C. Whitin was erected. Its dimensions are as follows: Lenglh, three hundred and six feet; width, one hundred and two feet. The new m;ichinc-shop was built in 18(54, and is three hundred and ninety feet in length by seventy in width. Taken together, they constitute one of the largest and most complete establishments in the State for the manufacture of machinery. The old firm was dissolved Jan. 1, 18G4, when the business was divided. Paul Whitin took the cotton business at Rockdale and Riverdale ; John C. Whitin took the machine manufacturing; Charles P. Whitin took the cotton- mill in Whitinsville, and James Whilin took the unimproved privilege at Linwood, near the railroad station, in addition to the mills at North Uxbridge. The amount of work done in each of these establishments is very extensive. In the cotton business the power-looms employed are seven hundred and four. The spindles in use are thirty-three thousand seven hundred and ninet3'-two. In machines and machiner}-, the capital invested, according to the State census of 1875, was $605,000, and the value of the machinery made was $900,750. By this is meant the product of the machine- shops in one year, and not the value of all the machinery in the town. In this branch of business Northbridge leads all the towns in the county. The two cities, Worcester and Fitchburg, exceed it in the amount of capital invested, but in the value of machinery produced Northbridge stands next to Worcester. The increase in the currency value of manufactures in the town, from 18G5 to 1875, including the total products of the manufacturing business, was almost incredible. In 1805 the value was $912,310 ; in 1875 the value was $1,521,072. The increase, therefore, was $008,7(12 in ten years. The advance made in the cotton business between 1837 and 1875 is shown by the following figures. In 1837 nine thousand spindles were running, and cotton goods were made of the val».e of $130,750; in 1875 the nuni1)er of spindles was thirty-three thousand seven hundred and ninety-four, and the cotton goods made were valued at $118,097. The population of Northbridge in 1770 was four hundred and eighty-one. During the next twent3'-five years the increase was less than one hundred. In 1830 it was but a little more than doubled, being one thousand and fifty-three. The increase was rapid dniing the next twenty years, being two thousand two hundred and thirty in 1850. At the end of the ne.xt decade the population was two thousand six hundred and thirty-three; and in 1875 it had increased to four thousand and thirty. The larger part of the increase has been in the village of Whitinsville, which shows the marks of thrift on ever\' hand. The buildings are comparatively new, and are kept in good rei)air. The shops and factories are constructed on improved models, and supplied wit!> the best LATER MINISTERS. 149 machinery. Tlic dwellings have an air of neatness and comfort. Some of them are elegant and splendid, with capacious grounds, and gardens in the highest state of cultivation. The public l)uildings are a credit to the place, and betoken a healthful interest in education and the worship of God. The influ- ence of Paul Whitiu, Sr., who gave the original impulse to the business of the place, has been felt as a constant force. His four sons enlarged the business, but kept it under the same prudent and beneficent management, whereby the community was a partner in all the advantages gained by the proprietors. As years advanced, sons and sous-in-law of the third generation have come on the stage of active life, and become participators in the various branches of manu- facture. The whole process has been a growth from small beginnings to the present magnitude, without undue haste, but with a steady annual progress, evincing a rare combination of enterprise and prudence. It would seem, from an inspection of the town and a survey of its water- power, that its growth must be mainly in the villages on the river and the rail- road ; viz., Rockdale, Riverdaie and Linwood. And as the property in these localities is very much under the control of the members of the family above- named, the gradual development of all the capabilities of the valley of the Blackstone, within the limits of the town, may be expected. As the villages increase, the natural effect will be to raise the value of land in the Centre, by furnishing a market for all the products of the farms aud gardens. The quarries arc near for the convenience of builders, and thus many circumstances combine to prophesy a prosperous future to this ancient town. CHAPTER II. CHURCH mSTORY RESUMED SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION THE REBELLION, AND TlIE ACTION OF THE TOWN MANUFACTURES, MILLS AND FACTORIES PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS. Resumin(; the cc(;lesiastical history of the town, we are led, in the first place, to trace the fortunes of the old church and society in the Centre. The Rev. Samuel H. Fletcher, who succeeded Dr. Crane in the pastorate, was installed March 14, 1832, and dismissed at the end of two years. His successor, the Rev. Charles Forbush, was installed June 4, 1834, but his brief pastorate was terminated by his death on the 9th of September, 1838. In 1855, says the Rev. Lewis F. Clark, "the old meeting-house, which had stood for half a century on the highest point of land for miles around, was taken down, and the present edifice erected on a site less conspicuous, but more easy of access." In I83;i, April 3, the Rev. Lewis Pennel commenced bis ministry, which lasted throe 150 TOW^^ OF NORTHBRIDGE. ^ears nnil eleven days. The Rev. E. Dcmoiid supplied the church from 1842 to 1845. On the 5th of November, 1845, the Rev. William l.ales was ordained as pastor, and continued in the oflicc about twelve j'cars. He was dismissed in 1857, November 23. and died in 1859. Temporary supplies have occupied the pulpit the last twelve years. These are their names : Rev. Messrs. George D. Safl'ord, Hiram Day, Sylvester Hinc, C.dvin Terry, D. W. Richardson, W. Hazlewood, Thomas S. Norton and James Wells. The present acting pastor is Rev. John T. Crumrine, and the church reports liCty- six members. During the last 3"ears of his ministry Dr. Crane occasionally preachetl in a school-house in what is now Whitinsville. Other ministers conducted the services at times, and in 1833 a conviction grew up that something more was needed to "meet the religious wants of the people." In consequence, a Sabbath- school was started in March, and its meetings were held earlier in the day than the regular worship in the Centre. Another session was held in the afternoon. On the 2d of Februar}-, 1834, some of the members of the church living in the village, sought the concurrence of the church in an effort to establish "churcli ordinances in that place, should circumstances in the providence of God seem to require it." The church was not willing to part with any of its members, fearing that its own ability to maintain public worship would be crippled. A movement was then made by persons outside of the socict}-, representing, as they said, a "poi)ulati()n of nearly three hundred, a large proportion of whom do not attend public worship on the Sabbath." A council was called I>y a '■ number of professors of religion in the village, iielonging to different churches,'' which council met on the 17th of April, 1834. After hearing the case, the council adjourned till the 28th, when the enterprise was sanctioned and a church was soon formed. A chapel had l)cen built in 1833, and religions services were held in it from the time of its dedication, January, 1834, unld a meeting-house w:is erected. The Rev. Michael Burdett was engaged to preach for one year. The church was organized Jnh' 31, with thirty-three members. Mr. Burdett was installed as pastor April 15, 1835, and dismissed April 29, 1841. The Rev. Lewis F. Clark was ordained and installed June 1, 1842. At his installation the church had eighty-four members. Mr. Clark died on the 18th of Ottober, 1870, after a pastorate of more than twenty-eight years. He was a good, kind, able and godly man, all the years of whose ministerial life were lill.d with usefulness. "He never sought another place, and never took a dollar for supplying on the Sabbath any other pulpit." Ho loved his people, "and was contented to stay with them; they loved him, and were sutislied with his Avork." Under his guidance the church became "large and influential, aI)onnding in love, and the grace of liberality." The Rev. John R. Thnrstor. was installed as his successor April 20, 1871, and still continues in the pastoral office. The number of church members is two hundred and sixl}', and the animal contributions for benevolent objects amount to over ten thousand SCHOOL HISTORY. 151 dollars. The tieacons have been Alvau Ldantl, John C. Whitin, Horace Armsby, Stephen F. Bachelor, P. Whitin Dudley, H. A. Goodell and William H. Whitin. The socond and three hist are still in office. The Sal)bath school, superintended by Dea. William H. Whitin, numberii two hundred and seveuty- five. The first Methodist meetings in Northl)ridgc were held in private houses, n)any years ago, in the neighborhood known as Quaker Street, and vicinity, and also in the school-house at Plummcr's Corner. Northbridge was the centre of a circuit which included surrounding towns. In 1850 services were begun in Whitiusville, in a hall on Railioad Avenue, and ihe Methodist cluirch was organized on the 23d of June in that year. The offitial members at that time were Smith Bruce, Amos White, Charles Taylor, William Smith, Libeus Leach, A. E. Batchelor and J. II. Cole. A new and spacious house of worship was erected in 1875, and was dedicated October 2 of that j-ear. The cost of the site, the church and the parsonage was nearly $20,000. The pastor now in charge is Rev. Soth C. Carey. As business and population inci'oascd in Whitinsvill ■ and the other villages in the town, the foreign-born element grew by degrees, until, in 1875, as .•ippears by the State census, there were natives of Ireland and Canada, to the ninnbcr of one thousand throe hundred and six. As a large proportion of these had been trained in the Roman Catholic faith, they naturally felt the need of religious ordinances in accordance with their views. Public worship was held in difl'erent places until 1870, when the Catholic church was erected in Whitiusville, bearing the title of St. Patrick. A United Presbyterian church was organized, Oct. 3, ISlil. It worships in Ihe chapel formerly occupied by the Village Congregational Society for the same purpose. The present pastor is Rev. J. L. Thompson. The education of their children was considered of the highest importance b}' the first settlers of Northbridge. After the town was organized, and the offi- cers wore chosen, two votes were passed ; one was to provide for preaching, and the other was for the support of a school or schools. Sixteen pounds were a[)propriated for this object. Here was provision for secular and religious instruction. The minister was the servant of tlie town as well as the school teacher ; both received their support from the town. The church and the school combined, was the educational apparatus of the people. Xo school- houses were built during the first quarter of n century, or till about the year 1705, as appears by a report of the school committee made in the Centennial year — 187() — but the schools were kept in ])rivate houses, or other buildings, ill dillircnt parts of the town. The terms were only two or three months in lengdi, and were often kept by the same master, who went from place to place, anil sometimes had in his school the elder pupils from all sections of the town. Besides his pay in ca-y Congress is approved of by this town and that it is left with our representative to join in any alteration which may appear to him, when the matter shall be more fully discussed, to be necessary or for the belter." In Ihc same j^ear it was proposed that the House of Representatives form a Constitution for the State. The town opposed the proposition, but voted "ihat a State Congress, chosen for (he fole purpose of forming a ConxtUutlon of Government is, in the opinion of this town, more eligible than a House of Roproseutatives." They, therefore, instructed their representative to use his "influence for convening such a Congress for the forming a Plan of Govern- ment, to be laid before the people for their inspection, approbation, rejection or amendment." AVlien the Constitution was submitted to them it was fully discussed, article by article, in town niecling ; portions of it were assigned to diOcrcnt committees more fully to consider and report upon ; finally, parts were rejected, parts approved, and to other parts amendments were suggested. Wiicn the Federal Constitution was proposed it received a like careful consideration. 'J hesc men clearly felt that they had duties to perform as well as rights to cnj:)y, and if they would have a good government that ihc}' must contribute to the extent of their abilit}' and influence to make it good. From the adoption of the Federal Constitution to the declaration (jf war with England, in 1812, there is nothing in the 'own records of special interest. Laying out and constructing highway's, and locating and building school-houses, were matters receiving considerable attention during this lime. The war of 1812 did not commend itself to the judgment, nor did the alliance with France, then advocated, approve itself to the conscience of the town. In the last-mentioned year a town meeting was called for July 10. The warrant prescribed the following business : — 1G4 TOWN OF OAKHAM. " I. For the town to express their minds respecting the present declaration of War against Great Brittain, or pass any votes thereon. "II. To see if the town will express an abhorrence of an alliauce with France." The record of the meeting says : — " I. Voted against a tear under existing circumstances. Also, voted to choose a committee of nine lo circulate a memorial for peace and that Rev. Danl Tomlinson, Doct. Seth Fobes and W"". Crawford be a committee to draw u[) the memorial. " II. Voted against any alliance with France." The alliance was not made, Ixit the war went on notwitlistanding the vote of the town ; and two years later, when it threatened Maf^sachusetts, Capt. (after- ward Gen.) "William Crawford, member of the eommiltee to i)rej)are the memorial for peace, led a company from Oakham and New Braintree to Boston, to take part in the defence of that city .against an exi)ected attack. The company remained in the service at Roston for lilt}-seven days, when, the danger being over, the}' Avere discharged. In the late civil war Oakham furnished one hundred and two men for tlie Union army, which number, according to the report of Adjt. Gen. Schoiilor, "was twelve more than her quota on all calls. The town appropriated and expended on account of this war, exclusive of State aid to the families of soldiers, the sum of $10,867.58. CHAPTER II. POPULATION AND STATISTICS — PUBLtC BUILDINGS — RELIGIOUS HISTORY — AX OLD-FASIIIONKD OliUIXATIOX SABHATII - SCHOOL EDUC.\TIONAL FEATUIIES APPKOPltlATIONS COLLEGIATE AND EMINENT MEN. The ])opu1ati()n of the town at various times has been as follows : In 177(), 598; 1790, 772; 1800, 801; 1820, 980; 1840, 1,038; 18C0, 959; 1870, SCO; 1875, 873. Of the population in 1875, seventy-six were foreign- born, and seven hundred and ninety-seven natives. The number of families was two hundred and nineteen, and the number of voters two hundred and twenty-two. The chief occupation of the people is agriculture. There are in the town one hundred and thirty-two farms, of an average of ninety-one acres each. The whole number of dwelliug-houscs in the town is one hundred and eighty-five. The valuation of the town, $35-1,742. The value of farm products for the year 1875 w.is $99,478. The value of manufactured i)roducts for the same year was $47,831. The principal manufactures are sieves and lumber. A few men are employed in making boots and shoes, obtaining their work from the manufacturers of North Brookficld and Spencer. There are in the town two water saw-mills, two grist-mills, one manufactory ECCLESIASTICAL NOTES. 165 cif sieves, one of baskets and one of plows. Each of these industries gives employment to a fcv? men. There are also two blacksmith shops, one carriage shop, one machine shop, and one harness shop. The public I)uil(lings include one church (Congregational), six school- hdusos and one town hall. Memorial Hall, built by the town in 1874, is two stiuirs in height. In the first story are two large and commodious school- rooms, fitted up and furnished in the most approved style. In the second story is the town hall, in which are placed mural tablets engraved with the n;unos of the soldiers of the town who lost their lives in the war of the Ilclieliion. The people are justly proud of this building. The ecclesiastical history of the town for the first fifty years is closely inter- woven with its political history. The town was the parish. It paid the minister by a tax upon all the property. It l)uilt and owned the meeting-house. The selectmen were often the com- mittee to supply the pulpit. Church polity and the qualifications of ministers wore subjects often warmly discussed in town meeting. For the first nine years of the settlement there is no record of religious services on the Sabbath, but as soon as the settlers were formed into a separate precinct in 1750, they mnde arrangements for preaching at private houses for two or three months each year. A Presbj'terian church of about thirty members was organized Aug. 28, 17(57. There is a tradition that there was great embarrassment because of the hal)its and character of some of the proposed members. Objections were made to some that they tarried too long at their cups, to others that their language sometimes bordered too closely upon profanity, and it appeared for awhile as if no one could be foui;d worthy of membership. At last a Scotchman exchiimed, "Weel, if the Laard wants a church in Oakham, he must tak' them such as tlie\' l)e." This church lived a precarious life until 1783, when it dis- banded, the town having voted "(hat the church should be under the Congre- gational constitution or government." The first minister ever settled in the town was the Rev. ,Iohn Strickland. He was installed over the Presbyterian church, Aug. 28, 1766. The town voted him £133 Gs. 8d. for a settlement, and for a salary £60 the first year, £63 6s. Sd. the second year, and £66 13s. id. annually thereafter so long as he should remain their minister. He sent his resignation to the town June 2, 1773, which was accepted on the same day. Upon Mr. Strickland's resignation a Congregational church was organized. The rccoid of the organization gives only the names of the male members, six- teen in number. Jesse Allen and Jonathan Bullard were chosen deacons. This church has continued to the present time, and is the only church in the tiiuii. It now has about two hundred members. For thirteen years from its organization the chinxh had no pastor. July 3, 1C6 TOWN OF OAKHAM. 1778, a call was cxteiulcd to Rev. Baruch Beckwith. The town offered him £150 for a settlement, and au annual salar}' of £G6 13s. 4d. over afterwards, more or less in proportion as good merchantable Indian corn brings 3.s. per bushel ; rye, 4s. ; best quality of pork, 4(1. per pound, and best grass fed beef, 3d. per pound. Mr. Beckwith declined. Rev. John Davenport, Rev. Solomon AValcott and Rev. Dauiel Farrington were severally invited to settle, but declined. In 1770 a controversy aros^e in the town respecting the baptizing of children whose parents were not members of the church. In town meeting it was "voted that the town is willing to settle a minister if they can find one that is suitable. Also that they will settle a minister although he does not baptize for those who do not Ijclong to the church, 37 for settling in that way and 24 not for settling that way." On the 3d of April, 178G, the town and church concurred in calling the Rev. Daniel Tomlinson to be the minister of the town and pastor of the chui'ch. He was oflercd £200 for a settlement, and a salary of £G0 the first year, £70 the second, and £80 annually thereafter. Mr. Tomlinson having accepted the call, a town meeting was held on the 18th of I\Iay to appoint a day and make all necessary arrangements for his ordination. The tweut^'-second day of June was fixed upon as the time. Numerous committees were chosen, one " to provide for ye Council," one "to secure ye meeting-house from being in danger of being damaged on ye day of ordination." Another committee was "to keep order in ye meeting-house on said day of ordination, and provide seats for ye Council." And still another was "to seat ye singers." The town also voted £1.5 to defray the necessary expenses. In the expenses paid by the town were these items : — "For entertaining the Council, 85 meals, liquor included, £(? IG.s. 3fi. ; for wine and lemons f\)r the ordin-.ition, £2 5s. (!;?." The "liquor included" and the "wine and lemons" indicate the drinking customs of the times. Several members of the Council lived to see a reform of those customs, and themselves became, both bj' example and precept, the earnest advocates of total abstinence. Mr. Tomlinson at the time of his ordination was twenty-seven j'cars of age. He was born in Derby, Conn., graduated at Yale College, and studied theology with the eminent Doctor Backus. He remained as sole pastor until 1828, ai;d as senior pastor until his death, fourteen years later. His ministry was most successful ; under his pastorate the church largely increased in numbers and in beneficent work. Of him his successor said : "He was a sound theologian — a man of great faith and prayer, and mighty in the Scriptures." Thoroughly loved and respected, he died Oct. 20, 1812, and was buried within the shadow of the church which for more than fifty-six years he had faithfully served. In 1820 Rev. Asa Hixon was settled over the church, but after preaching SCHOOL MATTERS. 1G7 about three months, he was compelled ou account of feeble health to resign and leave town. In 1832 Rev. James Kimball became i)astor of the church, and lilled the office for twenty-eight ^ears. IIis health failing, he resigned in the autumn of 18G0, and died in the following March, iu the sixty-fourth year of his age. His ministry, like that of Mr. Tonilinson, was most successful. At tlio time of his retirement the church numbered two hundred and twenty-three members. A man of great piety and exceeding gentle?iess, a!)Ounding in charity and sympathy, remarkable for the wisdom of his judgment, respected, confided in and loved by old and young alike, ]\Ir. Kimball was a faithful minister, a tender shepherd, a safe counsellor, and by his life a most persuasive preacher. Happy the church with such a pastor, and the youth of a community with such a guide. Of these two men, Mr. Tomlinson and Mr. Kimball, it has been truthfully said : " More enduring than monuments of brass or marble are the monuments which they have built for themselves in the characters and lives of the people of Oakham." In December, 1800, Rev. F. N. Peloubet became pastor of the church, and remained until the summer of 18G6, when he was succeeded l)y Rev. J. C. Halliday, who, in 1871, was succeeded by Rev. Alpha Morton, who still occu- pies the place. Jesse Allen, who was chosen deacon upon the organization of the church in 1773, held that office until his death in 181G, when his son, the late Hon. James Allen was elected, and held the place until his death in 1870, when he was succeeded by his son, a present incumbent. The officers of the church at (ho present time are Rev. Alpha Jlorton, pastor; James Packard, Jesse Allen and Horace W. Lincoln, deacons. In 1832 a Methodist church was organized, but becoming weak in numbers, it finally disbanded, most of its members joining the Congregationalists. In 1818 a Sal)bath school was organized in connection with the Congregational church. Dea. James Allen was the fir^t superintendent, and filled that office for more than forty years. lie was succeeded by Dea. James Packard for eighteen years, and he in 1878 by Dea. Jesse Alien. The school now numbers two hundred members. The citizens of Oakham have always manifested a commendable interest in the cause of public education. Liberal appropriations have been made annually for schools, and conscientiously expended. In 17G2 the town voted £10 for schooling ; in 1780, £30 ; in 1835, $500 ; in 18G5, $1,000. In 1780, £1 2s. Sd. per mouth and board was paid to male teachers, and 4s. per month to female teachers. The teachers "boarded around." In 17GD the town was divided into five "school-plots," and each plot required to build a "decent school-house." In 1787 Rev. Mr. Tomlinson was chosen inspector of schools, and in 1798 1G8 TOWN OF OAKHAM. three men were choseu "to assist in examining schoolmjisters and inspecting schools." The town now snppoits six schools for twenty-six weeks in the year, aflbrd- iug reasonahle o|)poitiinities for all the youth of the town to acquire a fair education. The schools have generally been of a high standard of excellence, and the pupils have had a deservedly gcjod reputation for scholarship. Since 1833 a select school has been taught in the autumn of nearly every year, with an attendance varying from twenty to seventy. It has been of incal- culable benefit to the town. Twent^'-nine men from the town have received a liberal education at American colleges and professional schools, and have adorned the professions which they have chosen. Several others have been influential in the counsels t>f the State and the nation, yet the chief glory and pride of the town is, not in her few sons who have attained eminence, but in the many true hearts and sound heads that have soue from her common schools to the common vocations of life. INDIAN PURCHASE. 169 OXFORD. BY GEORGE A. STOCKWELL, A. M. CHAPTER I.* THE KIPMCCK COUNTET — THE FIRST GRANT — SETTLEMENT OF THE HUGUENOTS INCURSION OF THE INDIANS, AND FLIGHT OF THE INHABITANTS. The Indian name of Oxford was MaiKharge or ilanchang. The native inhabitants formed a branch of the Nipmnck tribe, and were nnder the chief- tainship of Bhifk James of Chaubnnagungamang, now Webster. The first that was known of this branch of the Nipmucks was throngh the visit of the Indian apostle, Eliot, and Daniel Gookin, in 1074. This seltlemcnt then consisted of about twelve I'aniilies, or sixty souls. Its members had made some progress in agriculture, were peaceful and docile, received the Bil)le from Eliot, and formed what was called one of the "New Praying Towns." In Philip's war, this tri1)0 proved treacherous to the English, joined Philip, and was nearly destroyed. In IMa3', 1G81, William Stonghton and Joseph Dudley were appointed by the General Court to treat with the Indian owners for a tract of land lying in the Nipmuck country, and in Ma}', 1()82, these agents received of Wal)an, Pyambobo and others, "Indian natives, and natural descendants of the ancient projjrictors and inhabitants of the Nipmuck country," in ctmsideratiou of iifty pounds and a black coat for Black James, a deed of all that part of the Nip- muck country lying beyond the great river called Kuttatuck or Nipmuck, now known as the Blackstone. Nearly in the centre of this country was the Indian town or village called Manchaug, for which a grant was made as follows : — " This Court having information that some gentlemen in England arc desirous to remove themselves into this colon}', and (if it may be) to settle themselves nnder the Massachusetts ; for encouragement of such persons and that they may liave some from among themselves, according to their notion, to assist and direct them in such a design, this court doth grant to Major Robert Thompson, William Stoughton and * For many of the loading liistorical facts in this chapter, the writer is imleljted to the roccntly- puMished volume by George F. Daniels, entitled "The Huguenots in the Nipmuck Country, or Oxiord prior to 1713." VOL. u.—7i 170 TOWN OF OXFORD. Joseph Dudley, Esqs., and such others as (hey shall associate to Iheiu. a tract of land in any free place, containing eight miles sfjuure, for a township, they settling in said place within fower years, thirtj- families, and an able orthodox minister, and doe ailotv to the said township freedom from country rates for fower years from the time above limited. May IG, 1G82." The first survey of this grant was made l)y John Gurc of Koxhury. It con- tained 41,250 acres, or a little less than sixty-live square miles. This plan and survc}' were accepted liy the General Court on Slay IG, 1G83, and the tract given the name of New Oxford, in honor of Oxfordshire, Eng., and its university. On the eastern side of this grant, 11,250 acres were set off for a village ; the remainder was divided among the proprietors. The deed of division was found in London in 1872, and is now in possession of the New York Historical Society. The northeast corner of Anguttcback Pond was the western limit of the village. The grant for Oxford was the first for a town within the territory now known as Worcester County, after Philip's war. Previous to this time, only four townships had heen granted in the "great interior territory," namely, Lancaster in 1653, Meudon in 1GG7, Worcester in 1GC8, and Brookfield ni 1073. lu consequence of the general effect produced by Philip's war, and the fact that predatory bands of disafiecled Indians still menaced the fron- tier settlements, the inhabitants of the old towns near Boston were loth to remove into the '"distant wilderness," as the Niprauck country was then called. Hence, scLtlcment proceeded slowly, and the grantees of Oxford, fearing that the time of their grant would expire before the requisite nuin!)er of families ■were obtained, applied to the Court for au extension, which was granted thus: — " In answer to motion and request of William Stoughton and Joseph Dudley, Esqr'., on behalf of Myjor Thoni|)son and themselves, desiring this court's favor to enlarge the time of their grant of their plantation, this court do enlarge the time for settling that plantation therein mentioned, the Si)ace of three years from this day." This was dated in January, 1G85, the year in which Louis XIV. signed the infamous decree called the "Revocation of the Edict of Nantes," which annulled forever the privileges granted to the Huguenots by Henry IV. and Louis XIII., and absolntelj' prohibited the exercise of their religion throughout the kingdom, with the exception of Alsace. In consequence of this repeal, the French Protestants or Huguenots, who had suffered great cruelties and perse- cutions on account of their religious faith, became exiles from their native country. Many settled in England, and, of these, some found their way to America. Though the influence and aid of Gabriel Bernon, a native of Rochelle, France, and a person of distinction, who in England made the ac(piaintance of Robert Thompson, one of the grantees of Oxford, many of these refugees emigrated to Boston, and in 1G86 several families were settled at Oxford. ENGLISH ARRIVALS. 171 With them eatue Isuac Bertrand Dii Tiiffeau, as agent for Ccrnoii, and as director in the affairs of the Colony. As an encouragement, the comiiany granted to him and Bernon, who, induced by Du Tuffoau, came to America, seven hundred and tifty acres of land. Afterwards Bernon was granted seven- teen hundred and fifty acres. AVith this company of Huguenots came, also, Daniel Bondet, as minister. During the spring of 1688 the requisite number of t'amilies — thirty — was settled. The height of prosperity of the colony was reached in 1693. In tliis year the town was authorized to send a representative to the General Court, and Daniel Allen was chosen. In the summer of 1604 the hostile Indians appeared, and then commenced the decline of the settlement. In the fall of this year their minister, Daniel Bondet, left them. Nothing further is known of this colony until the Johnson massacre in 1696, when John Johnson and three children, Andrew, Peter and j\Iary, were murdered in cold blood by a roving band of hostile Indians. Mrs. Johnson escaped and fled towards "Woodstock, expecting to meet her husband returning from that place. Ho reached the house by another route, and was shot at his own door. This attack broke up the plantation, and the settlers returned to Boston. In 1G99 eight or ten families returned to the plantation, and remained until 1701. The place chosen for the headquarters of the colony was on a hill south-east of the present village. The main fort was built there, the road from Boston entered the town at that point, and below the fort at the distance of half a niilo was the church and burying-yard. The first mill was a saw-mill, built near the lower end of Oxford plain; also, on the same stream, about a mile above, was a grist-mill. The best known relic of the Huguenot settlement is the ruin of the old fort, one mile and a half from Oxford village, the outlines of which may now be traced by means of the foundation-stones. The fort was one hundred feet long and seveut^'-five feet wide, was built of unhewn stone and possibly timber, enclosing a house and well. Another relic is the site of the Johnson house, on Johnson plain, where, in 1875, citizens of Oxford erected a stone. An industry of the Huguenots was the manufacture of ship-stores, and another CHAPTER II. THE EXGLISII SETTLEMENT THE TOWN AND CllUnCII THE KEVOLUTION ECCLESIASTICAL UISTOKY. The settlement of English families in Oxford began in May, 1713. In July of (he same year the reqviired number of families was obtained, and on the twelfth of the month the following proclamation and deed was made by the proprietors of the grant : — 172 TOWN OF OXFORD. 'To all persons unto uhom these presents shall come: Josej h Dudlej-, of Roxburj, in the county of Suffolk, and province of the JIassachusotts Hdy, in New England, Esq. ; William Taylor, of Dorchester, in the same county, Esq. ; Peter SaTgent, of Boston, Esq., and Mchetable, his wife ; John Nelson, of Boston, Esq., and Elizabeth, his wife ; as thcj-, the said William Taylor, Peter Sargent, and John Danforth, are the heirs and executors of the Hon. William Stoughton, late of Dorchester, deceased, send greeting: " ]VJiercas, The General Court of the Colony of the Mass.ichusetts Bay, in the year' one thousand six hundred and eighty-two, granted to said Jo'^eph Dudlc}-, William Stoughton, and their associates, a certain tract of land in the Ni|miuck country, eight miles square, for a township, as may be seen more at large b_v the records of the General Court, pursuant whcreunto, and for the uses aforesaid, the said Joseph Dudley, William Stoughton, and their associates, in the year one thousand six hundred and cight3-six, brought over thirty families of French Protestants into this country, and settled them upon the eastern part of the said tract of land, and reserved, granted, and set apart 11,250 acres for a village, called Oxford, for the said families, and bounded it as by a plat upon record will more fully appear ; but forasmuch as the said French families have, manj* years since, wholl}^ left and deserted tiicir settlements in said villao-e, and the said lands, as well by their deserting the same, and refusing to return, upon public proclamation made for that end, as by the voluntary surrender of most of them, are now reinvested in and restored to and become the estate and at the disposi- tion of the original jToprietors, their heirs and successors, for the ends aforesaid : "ylnd, ivhereas, There are sundry good families of her Majesty's subjects within this Province who offer themselves to go out and resettle the said village, whereby they ma^' be serviceable to the Province, and the end and design of the original grant aforesaid be answered and attained : '■'■Now, Joww ye. That the said Joseph Dudley, William Taylor, Peter Sargent and Mchetable his wife, John Nelson, and Elizabeth, his wife, and John Danforth, and Elizabeth, his wife, for and in consideration and to the uses, and intents above mentioned — '• Have fully, freely, and absolutely, and by these presents, do give, grant and confum unto Samuel Ilageburn, John Town, Daniel Eliot, Abiel Lamb, Joseph Cham- berlain, Benjamin Nealand, Benoni Twitchel, Joseph Rocket, Benjamin Chamberlain, Jr., Oliver Coller, Daniel Pierson, Abram Skinner, Ebenezer Learned, Thomas Leason, Ebenczer Humphrey, Jonathan Tillotson, Edmund Taylor, Ephraim Town, Israel Town, AVilliam Hudson, Daniel Eliot, Jr., Nathaniel Chamberlain, John Chandler, Jr., John Chandler, and others, their associates, so as Iheir number amount to thirty families at least, all that part of the said tract of land, etc., etc., herein above mentioned ; Provided, always. That if anj* of the persons, grantees above named, or any of their associates, shall neglect to settle upon and improve the said land with thimselves and families, by the space of two years next ensuing, — or, being settled thereon, shall leave and desert the same, and not return to their respective habitations in the said town, upon due notice given, — that then in such case, it shall and maj' be lawful to and for the rest of the grantees and their associates, heirs, or assigns, respec- tivcl3', or the major part of them, to seize upou and take the said estate, or estates of such person or persons so deserting. Excepting always, and reserving to Gahrid Bernon, merchant, the whole of his right, grant, or purchase which made one of the original proprietors, as by deed or record thereof may ai)pear. MEETING-HOUSE BUILT. 173 "/« wihiess tchereof. The parties above namecl to these presents have hereunto inter- changeably set their hands and seals, the 8th day of July, in the 12 year of her Majesty's reign, Anno Domini, 1713. " (Signed) J. Dudley, AViLLiAM Taylor, Peter Sargent, Mehetable Sargent, JonN Dan FORTH, Elizauetq Dan forth, JonN Nelson, Elizabeth Nelson, and each a seal." "Boston, July 15, 1713. — Received and recorded with the Records of Deeds for the count}' of Suffolk, Book xxvii., p. 174. " Attested : John Town, Per Addington Davenport, Clerk of Oxford. Register." Diiriiiir the ye;ir 1714, the i)roprict()rs' lands were divided and the lioad of each of the thirty f.iniiiics drew by lot a tract of thirty acres. The represent- atives of these families Avere Isaac Learned, Joshua Chandler, Joseph Chan- dler, John Colier, Joshua Whitney, Thomas IliniUins, Elienczer LamI), and those mentioned in the foregoing deed, except John Chandler. The first vote recorded on the proprietors' books is dated Sept. 13, 1713, which reads: "Voted, That Peter Shnmway shall come in as an inhabitant of Oxford npon the right of Josluia Chandler." The first town meeting was held on July 22, 1713, "upon due warning given by warrant from John Chandler, Esquire, one of her majesty's (good Queen Anne's) justices of the peace for Suffolk county," at which the following offi- cers were chosen : Selectmen, John Town, Benoni Twitchel, Joseph Chamber- lain ; clerk, John Town ; constable, Thomas Iluukins ; highway snrvej'or, Oliver Colier; tything-man, Abicl Lamb. The first record on the town book after organization, was that in reference to the purchase of a law book, and a book for town records. At a meeting held on Nov. !>, 1773, the town voted, "that John Town, Samuel IIagl)urn and Benjamin Chamberlain should l)e a com- mittee to lay out a minister's lot and burying-place." In March of the next year it was voted "that each lot man shall pa\- his equal proportion of ten shillings a Sabbatii for a quarter of a 3"ear, to Mr. John James for his preaching with ns." From this it is inferred that John James was the first minister in Oxford after the Engli-h settlement. On July 20, 1714, the town voted "to build a meeting-house thirty feet square, and eighteen feet stud, and to set the house on the west side of the higlnva}-, near Twitchcl's field." This place was a few rods north-west of tho site of the present edifice of the Congregational society. At the same meet- ing it was also voted "that every lot man should pay bis equal proportion of 174 TOWN OF OXFORD. labor for building the inceting-hoiise, as the committee shall direct, or pay two shillings and sixpence a day for every day's neglect, in money, to the com- mittee." This house of worship was not completed for several years. In 1715, Benjamin Shattuck was engaged to preach two days, and received thiily shillings therefor. During the next year the town raised £30 for the support of preaching, and in the same year appointed a committee to petition the Gen- eral Court for aid in supporting the Gospel, with what success is unknown. In 1718, the town offered Rev, John McKiustry equal proprietorship "with the rest of Oxford village," £G0 yearly salary, a hundred acres of land, and "£G0 to be paid in labor in building, breaking up the ground and in fencing." This offer was not accepted. In 1720, the town, through its selectmen, np[)lie(l to the association of neigh- boring ministers for advice in regard to John Campbell, a candidate for the ministry, then in the employ of the town. The reply of the association, in effect, M'asthat Mr. Campbell was "endowed with ministerial accomplishments, and that he would serve to the glory of God and the spiritual cdilication of souls in the place where Divine Providence shall fix him in the Gospel minis- try." On July 15, 1720, a committee was chosen to treat with Mr. Campbell, and this committee presented its report : — "In the name of the inhabitants of the town : 1st. We callcfl the Rev. John Carap- boll to be our ministrr. 2(1. We promised to the said Mr. Campbell £00 salary. ;nl. Tiiat the said Mr. Campbell himself, his heirs, and .assigns, have freely given them the lot already laid out for the first minister of Oxford, with the rights thereunto belong- ing, and one hundred acres joining the above, if it can be had ; if not, where it can conveniently he had. 4lh. That we will give the said Mr. Campbell, one hundred jiounds settlement, in work, as reasonably as others have work for money in Oxford ; twenty-five pounds of it to be paid quarterly, as shall be diieete0 the leading industry, aside from agriculture and the manufacture of textile fabrics, was that of shoe-making. The war and other causes led to its decline. This occupation is still followed, but the capital employed and the amount produced is comparatively small. L. B. Corbin & Co. employ f irtj'-five workmen, and produce shoes to the value of |80,000 per year. A. L. Joslin & Co. employ one hundred and forty workmen, and the value of shoes made by this firm is $140,000 per year. The Oxford Bank was incorporated as a bank of discount and deposit, with a capital of $100,000, on Feb, 8, 1823. On ]\Iarch 13 of the same year organi- zation was elfccted, at a meeting held in Richard Olney's inn. Until 185(5 the affairs of the bank were conducted in a dwelling-house owned by the bank, in v.hii-h lived Simnier Bastow, the first cashier; after that time in the present building, erected solely for banking purposes. It was changed from a State to a national bank on January 2, 1865. First board of directors: Jonathan Davis, Richard OIney, Andrew W. Porter, Daniel Tonrtellot, Nathan Ilurd, Aaron Tnfts, Jeremiah Kingsbury, Henry Sargent, Joseph Thayer. Presi- dents were elected in this order: Jonathan Davis, 1823; Richard OIney, 1833; Aaron Tufts, 183G; Alexander DeWitt, 1843; John Wetherell, 1848; John Jewett, 184!); Emory Sanford, 1857; Charles A. Angcll, 18()4; Samuel C. Paine, 1873. Cashiers: Sumner Bastow, 1823; Alvan G. Underwood, 1845; Wilson OIney, 1855 ; C. A. Angell, 1873. Oxford became a post-town in 1801, and the following have been post- masters : Samuel Campbell, Archibald Campbell, AVilliam Sigourncy, James G. Scott, Willard Benson, Emory Sanford, William E. Ponse. The largest and best public building is Memorial Ilall, erected at a cost of $25,000, in 1873. It is built of brick and sandstone, in a conventional style of architecture, with porch and tower. In the upper part is a hall with seating capacity of eight hundred ; in the lower are offices for town officials and the public library. In 1808 the lion. Ira Moore Barton gave, in his will, one thousand dollars to found a public library. The gift was accepted on April G, 18G8, and the library established in 1870. It contains 2,300 volumes, and is supported by town grants. To the circulating library was added, in 1877, through the lilicralit}' of Gorge L. Davis, Esq., of North Andover, a reference department, at an expense of $.")00. The town has twelve schools — eight primary or mixed, three grammar and 182 TOWN OF OXFORD. one bigh — under the control of a committee of three. Four thousand dollars were appropriated for schools in 1878. The school children nuujljcr about five hundred. Early in the history of the town many of the present mill-sites and water- privileges were occupied, and consequent upon their improvement villages sprung up on the different water-courses. East of Oxford Plain, on the outlet of Slater's Reservoir, called Mill Brook, a small stream flowing westerly, ■was, formcrl}', a scythe-mill, owned by David Lilley. Below, on the same brook, was a nail-mill, opei'ated Ijefore and after 1808 by Rufus Moore, ■where nails without heads were made by hand. On Mill Brook, also further west, was a grist-mill, now owned snid operated by Ebenezer Rich ; and, at the southern limit of the plain, Thomas Davis built on the "Old Mill Place," as the site of the old Iliigncnot Mill is called, a fulling and cloth-tinishing mill. The two first named privileges are not now occupied ; the latter has been vari- ously improved to the present time, the last manufacture being that of twine. In the western [lart of the town, two miles from Oxford Village, near the Charlton line, on Little River, is Bnfi'nmsville. The land in and surrounding this village was formerly owned by John Nichols, who died in the year 1800, Avhen the property was divided among his heirs. Jonathan and Alexander Nichols came into the possession of about ninety acres and the privilege on Little River. In about the year 1812 the}' built a dam and saw-mill, the latter on the north side of the river. In 1818 a grist-mill was built on the same side of the river, and about that time blacksmith shops were erected on the opposite side and supplied with two trip-hammers, a grindstone and three pairs of bellows ; in which shops scythes were made, and afterwards axes and hoes. Either Sylvanus Pratt or William Smith was the first to lease the blacksmith works. After- wards Joab Maynard was the lessee. Scythes were made at this phicc from 1818 to 1824. In 1823 Stearns Witt purchased the privilege and twenty-nine acres of land in the innuediate vicinity, for himself and three brothers, Hollis, Archibald and Alexander. They sold to James Farwell, in 1824, one-third of the privilege, four acres of laud and the blacksmithing establishujcnt. Farwell was in possession luUil about 1830, when his interest reverted to the Witts. In 1825 the latter erected on the north side of the river a building for the manufacture of cotton thread, under the firm name of "Stearns Witt & Brothers." Afterwards this name was changed by authority to DeWitt. The thread-mill contained six hundred s|)indles. In 1830 Waters & Davis succeeded Farwell in the iron works, and continued it two years. Their successors were Putnam, Taylor & Co., who remained about two years. The Hunt Brothers came next, and made axes. The black- smith shops were soon after removed, and working in iron and steel was m> longer an industry in the village. In 1832 or 1833 Samuel Dowse and Franklin Campbell bought an interest in the thread manufacture, and the firm name became S. DeWitt, Brothers & Co., and in the year following S. MILLS AND FACTORIES. 183 DoWitt, Brothers & Co. & Ilunlson. la 1837 Elias B. Crawford hecanic a l)artner in the firm. The mill was burnt in 18-12, and during tlic same year Crawford liought the property, and in the year following began the erection of the building, now standing, to eontinuc the mannfactnrc of thread. "When nearly completed, in 1847, the mill was sold to Charles L. Harding, who put in woolen niachincr}', and liegan the manufacture of broadcloths and doeskins. In 1852 Harding sold to Moses Bufl'um and Edward Thayer, who, under the firm- name of Buffum & Thayer, continued the manufacture of broadcloths and doe- skins. In 18.55 Bufl'um became sole owner, and continued the business until 18(J3, when a son, ISI. II. Bnilum, was admitted to the lirm, and in 18G8 another son, C. II. Bnirum. I\I. Buirum & Sons were proprietors until the death, in 1874, of Moses Buirmn, when the sons came into possession of the mill and village pro[)erty, and arc the present manufacturers and owners. The present mill M'as enlarged and improved in 1872, and now contains four sets of machinery. Si.xty operatives are employed, and tlie product per month is fifteen thousand yards of fancy cassimcres. East of Bnfl'umsville, and one mile west of Oxford Centre is Hodges Village, owned, and the mill operated by Mr. George Ilodgcs, and situated on the bank of the Maauexit and its Ijasin, called Angutteback Pond. The village property includes about three hundred acres. The villugo proper, owing to the eiitci- prisc and public spirit of the owner, has been so imiiroved that it is one of tbe more attractive outlying settlements. The mill-privilege at this place was im- proved many years ago. Ephraim Ballard was an owner here at one time. John Xichols owned and operated a grist-mill until al)out the year 1800, when he was succeeded by his son, David Nichols, who contiimed to work the grist- n)ill, and added a wool-carding factory. On Jan. 2(1, 182G, David \ichols sold to the Oxford AVoolcu Company, which consisted of Sylvanns Holbrook of Northbridge, Lyman Tiffany of Boston, and Stearns DcWitt, Samuel Dowse, and Uichard Olncy of Oxford. The operations of the Oxford Woolen Company were attended with great prosperity for eight ^cars. Its broadcloths and mixed goods acquired a high reputation throughout the country. Changes in the luanagcmeut, the "hard times" of 1837, and other causes, led to the downfall of this company, and on Feb. 2, 1840, it sold its property* and privi- leges to the present owner. Sixt}' operatives arc now employed in the manu- facture of flannel, of which fifty thousand yards a month arc produced. Soon after the English settlement small mills were built in the northern ])art of the town, since called North Oxford, on the banks of the Maanexit.* Pre- vious to 1728, Col. Ebenezir Leaiwied, father of Gen. Learned, built, on the site of the present Huguenot Mills, a dam and grist-mill, which remained in his possession until his death iu 1772. The privilege was theu owned by Capt. " Tli(' following facts relating to the Xorth Oxford mills wern furnished by Miss M. E. Stone, and were prepared with a view to i)ublii.alion by her father, Lieut. Joseph Stone, and Cyrus Lamb, Esq., both deceased. 184 TOWN OF OXFORD. Jeremiah LearneJ, son of the tibove, and at his death in 1812, the proper: }• passed into the hands of his sons. In 1820, Steplicn Barton, Jr., was in pos- session, nsed the saw-mill, and in 1834 added a gtist-mill. This was converted into a salinet-inill in 1837, and leased to Ilolbrook and Paul Parsons. On March 17, 1839, the mill was burned; roi)uiit of wood for a cotton -factory, and leased to Royal Chapin and Orsamus Taft. It was burned a second time in March, 1852, and rebuilt of stone during the same year, and is now standing. The woolen-mill on the same privilege was built in 1818, burned in January, 185(1, and rebuilt in 1858. Steplicn Barton, Jr., sold this mill to II. 1). Stone, and the latter to Chamberlin, SIcGaw & Co. Burrongh & Bartlctt were the next owners of both mills, and the}* were succeeded by O. F. Chase & Co., the present proprietors. The two mills contain twelve sets of machinery. Above the Ilugncuot ^lills and village, an eighth of a mile, is Pluenix village and the Sigourney Mill. In 1704 a dam and giist-mill were built by Aaron Sibley, who retained possession till his death in 1812. Joseph Stone was the next owner, rebuilt the grist-mill, and put in carding machinery and country clothiers' works, which he operated till 1821. The stones em[)lo3-ed in the grist-mill were those used in the wind grist-mill on Prospect Hill in Auburn. This mill was sold in 1831 to Edward Denny, who manufactured satinets. In 1838 a cotton-factory was built on this site, burned in May, 1852, and the present mill built during the same year. W. A. Fisher became owner in 1843, and built the stone factory which was used for a twine-mill, afterward tor weaving cotton cloth, and now for the manufacture of cotton-warps; six thou- sand spindles arc in use. O. F. Chase & Co. were W. A. Fisher's successors in the ownership of this mill, and still retain it. The next village above Phoenix is Rockdale. A dam and cotton-factory were built there in 1814 by the "Oxford Manufacturing Company," and used for tl. manufacture of cotton yarn. In 181G it was bought by the Elliot Brothers, who sold to Asa Cutler, C.dvin Lcffiugwoll and Charles Preston in 1825, when weaving was begun. This mill was owned in 1828 by Willard Arnold, and afterwards by Samuel C. Damon till 1851 ; burned in 1853, and the machine- shop moved on to its site, and used as a Iwiue-iniil by W. A. Fisher. O. F. Chase & Co. arc the present owners. Above Rockdale Mill is what is called "Protection Mill," built on the site of a saw-mill owned and operated by Gen. Ebenezer Learned till his death in 1802. Thomas Parker was the next owner, and held the properly till 1812, when Sylvanus Pratt bought the privilege, and added a trip-hammer. In 1813 Abijah Abbott and Jonathan ^ice were in possession; and in 1831 Asa Cutler and Joseph StatTord bought .t.uI began the erection of a stone factory for the inaniifaeturo of cotton cloth, and to that end operated till 1830. Stad'ird then disposed of his interest to George Torrey, and Torre}* afterward sold to Jloies ifc Wilmarlh. Cutler, Rogers & Co. was the lirm-name until 1850, when it became Rogers & Wilmarth, and later Rhodes & Wilmarth. John Rhodes of WAR OF SECESSION. 185 ^lillhiiry is the present owner und operator. The stone factory erected in 1831 Avas burned in 1831', and immediately rebuilt. In 1870 fire again destroyed the mill, and in 1871 the present stone structure was built. Thirl}' operatives arc employed, and twenty thousand pounds of cotton-warp produced a month. North of the Protection Jlill is what is called "Lamb's privilege," owned by Cyrus Lamb, and in use since 1733. A grist-mill and malt-works were here until 1813, when chair-making occupied the attention of the lessee, Stei)hcn Alwood. Cyrus Lamb was owner until his death in 1815. The mill was burned in 1832, and never rebuilt. It Avas one of the earliest built giist-mills in town, the first being Elliot's, at the south end of the phsiu, built in 1715. Thomas Davis erected one ist the site of the present IJich's mill !d>out 1750, and another was built as early, it is believed, at the present Ilodges Village Ijy Mr. Callard. Still farther north, a quarter of a mile above the Limb jiroperty, is the privilege formerly owned b^^ the heirs of Abisha Learned. In 1803 a dam and saw-mill were built liy Sylvanus Learned, sold to Abisha Learned in 1810, and by him a stone factor}' was erected, and leased to the Denny jManufactniing Company ; burned in 1833 ; rebuilt in the same ycnv, and used for the manu- facture of l)roadcloths till 1844, Avhen it was converted info a cotton-mill, with sixty looms ; again burned in 1850, and in 1872 the i)roperty was purchased by O. F. Chase & Co. Above the Lnmb privilege is the site of Luther Stone's grist and saw mill, built bci'ore the Uevolution, and since owned and operated by the Stone descendants. The post-office in North Oxford was established in 1837, and the following have served as postmasters: Abisha Lcai'ned, 1837 ; Loren C. Parks, 1851 ; , lephen Barton, Jr., 1853 ; Thomas Harrington, 1856. Luther Clemenco was appointed in 1857, and remained in office three mouths, when, in Jlay, 1857, he was succeeded by IMiss M. E. Stone, the present incumbent. In the war of the liebelliou, the town of Oxford was represented by two hundred and ninetj'-thrce of its citizens, although only two hundred and sixty- six were demanded by the Government. The first town meeting held to con- sider war measures was called on May G, 1801, when it was voted to raise four thousand dollars to defray the expenses of organizing a military compan}', and a committee, consisting of Alexander DeWi't, Emory Sanford, George Hodges, Jr., Samuel C. Paine, W. E. Pease, Charles A. Angell, Ira Harrison, and Elisha Smith, was appointed to carry the vote into effect. On Noveml)er 8, the town voted "to pay the l)alanee of board-i)i!ls due individuals for board- ing soldiers." In the 3ear 18G2, it was voted "to pay a bounty of one hundred and fifty dollars to all men who had enlisted for three 3'ears' service, and the same amount to all who should enlist within three days ; to all who should enlist within one week, one hundred and twenty-five dollars, and, to those who VOL. II.— 24 186 TOWN OF OXFORD. enlisted after that date, one biuidred dollars," until the quota — thirty-eight — was filled. On August 27, the town offered one hundred and fifty dollars "to each volunteer who shall enlist during the week, and one hundred dollars to all who enlisted thereafter." On April G, 1863, it was voted to continue State aid to families of vohni- teers, and to aid families of drafted men. lu June, 18G4, the town voted "to give each man one hundred and twent^'- fivo dollars when mustered into service, if there is a call for more troops." The town furnished eight commissioned oGieers. The whole amount raised for war purposes was $22,372.09 ; for State aid during the war, $20,223.12. On marble tablets, in the porch of Memorial Hall, are the names of the si.Kty-one soldiers who lost their lives in the last war: — Sergt, Luther C. Torrey, Sergt. Amos II. Shumwav , Corp. John Toomcy, Corp. Edwin A, IMartin, Julius N. Bellows, Josiah C. Brown, Daniel V. Chikls, Jacob L. Childs, John Dore, Francis A. Fletcher, Chester J. Smith, Estes E. Baker, James D. Adams, James O. Bartlctt, Valentine Suter, Edwiu Cutlworth, Henry C. Ilayden, Amos P. Newton, Jr., William Robbius, John Tully, Albert Foskett, George Bacon, Samuel C. Smith, William Biggs. William II. N. Cady, Stephen Eager, Patrick Ilogan, Patrick Ilolden, Eafus Vickers, Christopher Vickers, Nelson Barthoh^mew, Edward Booth, George W. Cross, George P. Davis, James II. Davis', Alfred W. Davis, Edward Ennis, Patrick Eliott, Herbert N. Fuller, Joseph E. Fellows, James Hilton, Joseph Jennisou, Jr., Henry Kock, Cj'rus Earned, Albert S. JIofRt, Elliot F. JIcKiastry, Antonio Philli[)s, Francis C. Pope, L^'inan Phipps, Vernon F. Rindge, Edwiu F. Rindge, George O. Raymond, Jerome P. Southwick, Bernard Schmidt, Felix Sherbino, George Shortslccve, Samuel Thompson, Conrad M. Tower, Charles II. Wheelock, George S. Williams, Albert S. Williams. Members of Constitutional Conventions: — Ebenczer Learned and Ezra Bow- man, 1799; Richard Olney, 1820; Alexander DcAVitt, 18.53, 1850. Members of the State Senate: — Ira Barton, 1833, 1834; Alexander De- Wilt, 1842, 1844, 18.50, 18.51; A. G. Underwood, 1855; Nathaniel Eddy, 18G0; Alexander DcWitt, 18G7. Representatives to the General Court : — Richard Moore, 1721; El)enezcr Learned, 1720, 1730; Samuel Davis, 1743; Benjamin Davis, 1749; Ebenezer Learned, 1751; Duncan Campbell, 1752 to 1755, inclusive; Edward Davis, 1750, 1757 ; Duncan Campbell, 1758 ; Edward Davis, 1759, 17G0, 17G1, 17G3 ; Josiah Wolcott, 1704, 17G5, 17G0; Edward Davis, 17G7 to 1771, inclusive; Jeremiah Learned, 1772, 1773; Ebenezer Learned, 1774; Edward Davis, 1775; William Campbell, 177G ; Edward Davis and William Hancock, 1777; William Hancock, 1778; Edward Davis, 1779, 1780; Ebenezer Learned, 1783 ; Jeremiah Learned, 1784 to 1793, inclusive ; James Butler, 1794, 1795 ; Sylvanus Town, 1798 to 1806, inclusive; Abijah Davis, 1807, 1808; Abijah Davis and James Butler, 1809; Al)ijah Davis, 1810 to 1821, inclusive; Rich- EARLY PASTORS. 187 ard OIney, 1820; Jonafhun Davis, 1827, 1828; Jonathan Davis and Ricbard Olncy, 1829; Ira Barton and Alexander DcWitt, 18;]0, 1831, 1832; Stephen Barton and Bcnjauiiii F. Campbell, 183(5 ; Sylvanns Harris and Franeis Sibley, 1838, 1839; Ebenezer Rich and Alexander C. Thnrston, 1840, 1841 ; Emury Sanford, 1812; Israel Sibley, 1843; Jasper Ijrown, 1844; Erastns Ormsby, 184J; David Barton, 1840; Jonas Baeon, 1847; Paul Perkins, 1840; David "Wait, 1830; Albert A. Cook, 1851 ; Thomas Appleby, 1852 ; Emory Sanford, 1853; David Barton, 1854; James M. Sanford, 1855; George W. Ilartwell, 185() ; Lament 15. Corbin, 1857 ; Ira Merriam, 1859 ; Seth Daniels and George Hodges, 18G0 ; Moses Stone, 1862 ; Moses S. Johnson, 18(53 ; Arehibald Camp- bell, 18()4; Lament B. Corbiu, 18(57; George Hodges, 1873; George F. Daniels, 1875, 1870; Samuel C. Paine, 1878. John Canipl)ell, the first minister iu Oxford, was a jiafive of Siotlaiid, born in the }car 1090, and was educated at the University of Edinburgh, where ho was an intimate friend of Lord Loudon, who was John Campbell, fourth earl of Loudon, Baron Mauchlane, one of the sixteen peers of Scotland. From this and other facts, it is believed that John Campbell of Oxford was the tifih carl of Lou6, the sum of £250 was voted "for a meeting hou^e, and a meetinghouse place"; and it was also voted " to leave the raising of the bouse to the generosity of the public to provide a supper, and bring it to the church." During this year — 17GG — t!:e house was raised, and carried so far towards completion that services were held in it early in the following year. This structure stood in the centre of the common. In 1835 it was moved a few rods to the north, remodeled and a steeple added. The old church is thus described by George W. Livermore (/f Cambridge, in his address delivered at the hundredth anniversary of the incor- poration of the town : — " A plain, square structure, standinjj: in the middle of the Common in primitive simplicity, without dome or spire, destitute of external ornament and internal embel- lishment, its prominent sounding-board above, and its deacon's seat, and semi-eiieular communion-table at the base of the pulpit — its uncarpcled aisles, and pen-like pews, with their uncushioncd and hinged seats, to be turned up and let down at the rising and sitting of their occupants with a clatter sufHcient to have awakered a Rip Van Winkle — its negro scats in the rear of the front gallery, and the old i)eople's in front of the pulpit, for the use of the deaf, — its two corner pews perched aloft over the gallery staircase, " ' Tlirougb wbicli, aureforcd their Pelishons or memorials to your Excel'=y & Honours seting forth the Ilardshii) & Difficult marches they underwent as Volunteers under the Comand of the Late Cai)"^ Lovell & Cap'^ AVhitc after the Inden Enemy and Into their Countrey & praying In consideration thereof to be favoured with the Grant of a township & as by the several Pelishons aforesaid will fully aper unto which the raemorialistes would Refer, & Inasmuch as Nothing has Ben acted or Done tharcon for the Benifit of the memorialists by your Excellency & Honours They are therefore Nesesilated once more to apley to your Excellency & Honours Humbly praying 200 TOWN OF PETEESHAiM. that you will be pleased to take tlic Case of the memorialists iuto your wise and Gra- cious Consideration that so their former petislious may be Received &. Ivccoiisidcrcd & that they may meet with Such Due Encouragement for their Paste Sarvis by the favour of your Excellency & Honours as to have the Grant of a township of sis miles square in the unappropriated Lands of Province thay being a comptent Number for such a set- tlement ; — & the place which they are Desirous to settle on if it be your Excellency & Honours Plesurc is situated In the Western parte of this Province beginning six miles from Rutland northweste Corner to the westward tlierof & Running to the westward six miles & bounding southerlj' on Rutland Township which will leave and well accommo- date the settlers for a town between this & the Narowganset townshi,j your memorial- ists being varr}- willing & desirous to be subject to such Conditions Rules & Restric- tions in their settlement as your Excellency and Honours shall see meet & as in Dut}' bound shall ever pray &c." Then follow the sigimturcs. The proprietors numbered seventy-one, and seventy-two after the minister settled iii)()n his division, but ho did not arrive until 1738. Very few of these original proprietors settled in the plantation of Nichewang. In 1750 the names of forty-seven of tlic sixty-one families then actually settled in town, are given in a report to the General Court, and the name of Joseph Wilison alone appears (Ml the list of first proprietors. The conditions of the grant retpiired only sixty families to be settled on the granted territory within three years, and the priv- ilege of postponing actual settlement beyond the |)eriod of three years was con- ferred for a pecuniary consideration, paid into the proprietors' treasm-y. Ilev. E. B. Wilison, in his able address in commemoration of the one hundredth anni- versary of the incorporation of the town, says : — "A tradition exists that Joseph Wilison built the first house in town, near the pres- ent residence of Mr. David C. Page ; and I believe the tradition sometimes adds he was the first white man who spent a winter here. If Mr. Simeon "Houghton, who settled on what is known as the Charles AViklcr Place, was not here as early as Mv. Wilison, he certainl}- was not much behind him. And, if Mr. Willsou did really precede Mr. Houghton, there is traditional evidence that Mrs. Houghton was not preceded by Mrs. AVillson, or b^' any other of her own sex, in the new settlement. The tradition runs that Madame Houghton, albeit not the possessor of a well-favored countenance, was gifted with a genial disposition ; and that she used to say, in the jio.ti meridian t extensive leather dealers in the country. During the great fire of 1873 his l)lace of business, with huge blocks owned by him, were destroyed, to the amount of several hundred thousand dollai's, but before the devouring flames had finished their work he had engaged a new store and made arrangements for the erection of new buildings, lie has been President of the New England Shoe and Leather Association, and was one of the two United States Centennial Commissioners from Massachusetts. A man whon) the people of Petersham have respected and honored for three- fourths of a century was Deacon Cephas Willard, who died in August of the present year, in his ninety-third year. Possessed of an uncommonly retentive memory, he has for years been an encyclopedia of the events transpiring in his native town. He has held the offices of assessor, dcputy-sherifT, coroner and member of the House of Representatives ; has been deacon of the first parish in Petersham for fift^'-six years, being one of three of the same family who held the office of deacon for more than a hundred years, and was treasurer f(U" more than thirty years in succession, and more than forty in all, his final accoimt being settled not more than three months before his death. He visited the Centennial at Philadelphia, alone, when in his ninetieth year, and presided at the Fourth of July Centennial Celebiation in his native town, his lifetime having covered nine-tenths of the nation's history. In his life were all the elements of a true New England character, and his well-spent life cannot fail to leave an iiidelii)lc im[)rcssion for good upon the people among whom he lived. There are no names to the cemeteries in Petersham, but they are ten in number, and were probably established in the following order: No. 1, centre; No. 2, extreme south-west; No. 3, east; No. 4, west; No. 5, extreme north- west; No. G, near the "Lincoln Place," so called; No. 7, extreme east; No. 8, north; No. 9, south-west, near "Chamberlin Place," so called; No. 10, half-mile east of centre. Petersham held a prominent position among her sister 214 TOWN OF PETERSHAM. towns liming the last part of tlic last century, and efforts were made to form a new county, witli Petersham for the shire town. Petersham still holds, rela- tively, a prominent pc.sition among towns similarly located. This town bounded on the north-west ))y Athol and New Salem, on the uorth-east l)y Phillipston, on the south-east Iw Barre, and on the south-west hy Dana. It is about sixty-two miles due west of Boston. Dr. Hitchcock speaks of the boautj^ of Petersham among the towns east of Connecticut River, which have been built upon heights commanding wide horizons. And ah'cady the numerous summer visitors to the place attest the fact that this beauty and attractive scenery arc being appreciated. He said : "Then let them visit Waehusett and other romantic spots of Worcester County. In short, could our citizens but realize the riches of our scenery, I am sure so many of them would not resort so often to distant spots beyond onr limits, to experience often less gratification than they might find among our own moun- tains and vales." In speaking of autumnal scenery he writes : "Perhaps no comitry in the world exhibits in its autumnal scenery so rich a variety of colors in the foliage of trees as our own." The trees whose leaves give the liveliest tints arc the maple, the oak, the walnut and the sumach, while the pine and hemlock retain their deep green. In 1878 the, citizens formed the "Petersham Village Improvement Society." The secretary, F. J. Ilolman, in his tirst report, mentions, among other advan- tages already derived, that "The l)Pst rrsult of the year's work, huwevcr, is the guarantee of one thousand dollars for the cstabli.-hmcnt of a Free Public I/ilirar}', this sum being made up of five hundred dollars gencrou-sly otTered by Francis A. Brooks, ICsq , of Boston, seconded b}' an ap])ro{)riation by the town of three hundred and fifty dollars, the sum of one hundred and fifiy dollars being raised by subscription." The treasurer is Capt. John G. Mudge, whose heart and hand are now, as they over have been, first and foremost in every work that tends to the prosperit}' of his beloved Petersham and the welfare of its inhal)itants. There arc also the Baptist Sunday-school Librarj-, Congregational Sunday-school Library, and the Unitarian Sunday-School Library. 7ow>i Officers, 1879. — Selectmen: J. W. Upton, S. C. Goddard, Elisha Webb. Assessors: Josiah White, Fred. Bryant, Thomas Aldrich. School Committee: Elisha Webb, Rev. Lyman Clark, Mrs. Geoi-ge Ayeis. Treasuier, John G. kludge. Town Clerk, H. N. Tower. The author has availed himself of many facts contained in the admirahlo address of Rev. Edmund B. Wiilson : also, is under obligations to Rev. Lyman Clark, for information contained in his able Centennial address. Hon. John G. Mudge has taken a deep interest in the preparation of this history ; and last, but not least, the author wishes to cordially thank J. B. Howe, who is descended from the i)atriotic Revolutionary stock of Petersham, both on the paternal and maternal side. Mr. Howe has furnished many facts and rendered much assistance. CIVIL ORIGIN. 215 PHILLIPSTON. BY GEORGE W. IIORR, LL. B. CHAPTER I. SITUATION CIVIL ORIGIN EARLY' PROCEEDINGS ACTION IN THE REVOLU- TION MINUTE-MEN MILITARY ORDERS — CHURCH MATTERS PASTORS IN SUCCESSION A SEVERE STRUGGLE MORE RECENT DENOMINATIONS. PiiiLLiPSTON, sitiRitetl in the north-western part of tlie county, al^ont sixty- five miles from Boston, and about thirty miles from Worcester, was orisinaiiy formed from portions of Templeton and Athol. The act erecting the territory into a precinct reads as follows : — "In Council Feb. 15th 1774 it was read and ordered that the tract of Land here- after described l3"ing partly in Templeton and partly in Athol together with the inhab- itants thcrcan dwelling be and hereby- are erected into a Precinct, and the said Inhab- itants arc hereby intrusted with all tlie Powers and Privileges by Law belonging to inhabitants of other Precincts in this Province. Viz. — Beginning at Ilubbardston Line, where Burnshirt stream runs out of Templeton, thence running up said stream to a Mai)lc tree being the Southerly Corner of the Second Division Lott No. 47, thence running Xorth 30° West to New Brook, so called, thence down the brook to Iv03-alston Line, th.ence west to Athol Line being the north-west corner of Templeton, then on Athol Line to Miller's River; thence down said River to a Brook called Thousand Acre Meadow Brook, thence South-westerly to the wcstwardly Corner of the Hundred Acre Lot, Lot No. 22, thence strait to the most Westerly Corner of Templeton, llience by Templeton line to where it began." The first precinct meeting was held ilarch 22, 1774, at tiie Iiouse of Charles Baker, innholder, wiien the following officers were chosen : Clerk, Charles Baker; precinct committee, Charles Baker, Ephraim Stockwell, Joseph White, Ilcnry Sawtell, Samuel Taylor; precinct assessors, Charles Baker, John A\'liccler, Simon Goddard ; treasurer, Jonathan Jones. Although starting out alone, and becoming, to a certain extent, independent of the mother towns at the very time when the opening scenes of the Revolution would necessarily inspire a fecliug of UDcertainty regarding the future of their little community, 216 TOWN OF rillLLIPSTON. ytt we find them contrilxiting liberally for the support of religion and ediica- lion, and sending out of their mid'st a goodly number to battle in the armies of the Revolution. The long years of the war, and the hard times prothiced thcrob}^ occasioned great struggles for the building up of the place, and it required the most vigorous exertions of those that were public-spirited and zealous in the cause. We find recorded the names of the following men that went on the first alarm in 1775 : — "Thomas Johnson, Joseph Fairhank, Jonathan Willington, Isaac Ball, Samuel Lamb, John Ilrigham, John Wheeler, Berzelicl Maynard, Enoch Sawtell, Moses Gra^', Simon Goddard, .Jotham Bigelow, Sam. Jliner, Jonatlian Train, Reuben Cummings, John Shattui'k." Among the names of others recorded as serving in the Revolution from (his precinct were : — '•Benjamin Jones, Ezra Hudson, Joseph Cummings, Joshua Whitcorab, Jonas Baker, Gardner Maynard, Noah Bates, Richard Sawtell, James Wheeler, Joseph White, Abel Grout, Thomas Drury, Jonathan Bowker, Jonathan Gates, Malliah Eaton, Abner Sawyer, Thomas White, Stephen Smith, Asa Bowker, Charles Baker, Jr., Silas Balver, Samuel Gra^", Jonathan Jones, Jonas Gibbs, Jose[ih Mixer, Moses Taylor, Henry Sawtcll, Joseph Newton, Daniel Knight, Ithamar Bowker, E|)hrnim Shattuck, John Sliatluck. Levi Baker, David Train, Samuel Taylor, Jr., Charles Whitney, Ebcn- ezer Dunton, Samuel Phillips, Joseph Cummings, Jr., Thaddeus Brown, Capl. Stock- well, John Colman, Silas Conant, Joseph Newton, Jr., Joshua Lamb, Abner Ward, Daniel Shattuck, Paul Church, Benjamin White, Jr., Joel Grout, Benjamin Jones, Moses Miner, David Holman, Jesse Stoekwell, Gardner Maynard and others." At a precinct meeting held June 17th, 1777, it was voted to raise the sum of £470 for the paying of our Continental men, and to choose a committee to procure money and hire the remaining part of the quota of said men, and make return to this precinct. The inhabitants of the precinct desired greater privileges aud rights than those possessed by their existing organization, and a movement was made to have the territory set oQ' as a town, which object was accomplished, and (ho territory was incorporated as a town Oct. 20, 1780, aud was given the name of Gerry, out of respect to the Hon. Elbridge Gerry, a representative of (his Conunonwealth in the Congress of (ho United Stiites, who, it is stated, offered to glaze the meeting-house. The first town meeting held was Jan. IG, 1787, when the following town officers v.ere chosen; Town cUrk, Charles Baker; selectmen, Chailcs Baker, Joel Grout, Simon Goddard; wardens, John Wheeler, Joseph White; tilhing-men, Jutham Bigelow, Kzra Hudson. Among the families prominent in (he early history of (he town was the Jones family. Mr. James Jones of Weston was one of (he original proprietors of Xarraganset No. (5, which included the greater part of the present (own of Pliiliii)s(on. Jonadian Jones came to Gerry in 1770, from Weston, and con- OLD-TIME NOTES. 217 tiimcd to reside in the place until bis doatli, in 1803. His son, Niihuin Jones, writes in bis diary coucerning bis fatber and ibe town, as follows : — " When m}' father came to this place, what is now Gerry was quite in a state of nature. The societj- was yet to be incorporated ; a meeting-house to be built and a minister to be settled ; school-houses to be erected, and roads to be made. The settle- ment was in its iufanc}', and most of the inhabitants were living too remote from any meeting-house to attend public worship with convenience. A considerable number of the inhabitants were greatly disatl'ected and were much opposed to the building of the meeting-house, to the incorporation of the town, and to settling a minister, but after the first minister was settled the town became well united. M.v father was frequently in town'business, having served as town clerk, selectman, assessor, &c., and often employed on committees. And during the insurrection in Massachusetts, in 178G and 1787, he was particnlarl}- active and assiduous in using means for the suppression of the insurrection, and the restoration of good order." Nabuiu Jones, son of Jonathan, was born Aug. 1.3, 1772, and became noted as a schoolmaster. His education was received at the common schools of the town, Appk'ton Academy, New Ipswich, N. II., the academy at Leicester, JIass., and the academy connected with Williauis College. He taught for sev- eral years in Wbitestown and Paris, N. Y., making the journey there and back several times on foot, with his baggage, a distance of 211 miles. Ho also taught at Provincctown on Cape Cod, making frequent journeys to Gerry and back on foot, walking forty miles a day. He instructed, in all, between ten and eleven j'cars. The total number of scholars under his instruction was 1,4,'>(5. lie served as selectman and town clerk for the town of Gerry, and was much interested iu instituting a social library for the town, of which bo was chosen one of the trustees. He died Oct. 22, 1807, at the early age of thirty-five jears. Itharaar Ward, son of Maj. Gen, Artemas Ward of Revolutionary fame, moved to Gerry in 1778, where he contiuued to reside until his death, in 1828. He was a magistrate, and held offices of trust and honor in the town, and represented the town in the General Court eight years. His sons, Arte- mas and Trowbridge, now reside at the old homestead on Prospect Hill. They have in their possession a valuable historical relic, it being a letter written by George Washington to their grandfather. The letter reads as follows : — '' To Mojor General Ward at Moxborour/h : "CAMnuiDGE aOth Jlar. 76. " Sir, — As General Green is ordered to March with the next Brigade (on Monday) and as General Spencer will follow the last (leaving four or five Regiments in this department for Defense, Protection of the Stores, Erection of Works, ect.) I should be glad, if you are not afraid'of the Small Pox, & Incline to continue longer in the Service than you lately talked of, if you would remove in to Boston to-morrow or next day, & take upon you the Command and direction of Matters there. " I am Sir Y' Most Obed Ser G" Wasoikctok." TOL. u.— 28 218 TOWN OF PIIILLIPSTOX. They also have an English dictionary, formerly owned by Gen. "Ward, jirintcd in London in 1745, and a "Book of Sermons," publi-hed in Boston in 172G, containing a sermon preached to the artiller\- company in Boston on the day of their election of officers, Jan. 2, 1701. At a meeting held March 11, 1777, it was voted that the snm of ten p)unds be raised in the precinct to be laid out in preaching, and chose Charles Bdcer, Abncr Sawyer and Thomas White a committee for that purpose ; also voted that said i)reaching be one half at Capt. Baker's and the other half at Mr. Berzeliel ]\Iaynard's. At a meeting held May 27, 1778, a committee was chosen "to look out a convenient spot for to set a meeting-house on." At an adjourned meeting, held Jan. 18, 1779, it was voted to accept Mr. Enoch Sawtell's generous offer of giving 100 rods of laud to the precinct, for the purpose of placing a meeting-house upon, where his mill stands ; secondly the precinct voted that they would build a meeting-house 50 feet long and 40 feet wide; also voted to raise the snm of six hundred pounds for carrying on said house. March 8, 1770, it was voted to raise one hundred pounds to be laid out in preaching, aud June 29 of the same year two lumdred pounds Avas added for preaching. A Congregational church was gathered on tlio IGth of November, 1785, the churches of Templeton, Barre aud Koyalston assisting in the iirst ecclesiastical council. Rev. Ebeuezer Tucker, a graduate of Harvard College in the class of 1783, was ordained as the first minister of the church, Nov. 5, 1788, and continued as pastor until February, 1799, when he was dismissed. He was succeeded by Rev. Ezekiel L. Bascom, who continued until 1820. The ministers of the church since that time have been : Rov. Joseph Chickering, a graduate of Harvard in the class of 1799, who was settled in 1822, and dismissed in 1835 ; Alexander Lovell, installed in 1835, dismissed in 1844 ; Rev. A. E. P. Perkins, settled in Sejitember, 1844, and dismissed in May, 1855 ; Rev. Samuel W. Barnum, served from January', 1856, to Ma}', 18G2 ; Rev. Lyman White, 1803 to 1871 ; Rev. Charles H. Morse, May, 1871, to May, 1872 ; Rev. Stephen Harris, who was settled October, 1873, and was killed by the cars at Athol, June 27, 1874; Rev. C. L. Cushman, September, 1874, to April. 1878. There is no settled pastor now, but Rev. F. V. Tenny officiates as minister of the church. The meeting-house was renjodelcd from the old original one in 1838, aud the society was presented with a bell by Mr. Loanimi Baldwin, a native of the town, living in Savannah, G,i. During the pastorate of Rev. Mr. Chickering, about the years 1829 and 1830, occurred the memorable church controvcrs}', well remembered by many of the older people of the town. Some of the members of the parish had become dissatisfied with the preaching of Rev. Mr. Chickering, and signed off from the parish. About this time Methodist preaching commenced, and the dissatis- RELIGIOUS CONTESTS. 219 fied ones organized sx society. The trouble appears to have been caused prin- cipally by a fund in possession of the parish. Those that formed the new society believed that they were eutitied to the benefit to be derived from this fund, and also claimed the name of the First Parish ; thus there were two societies claiming this title, and tho right to the mccting-houso and fund. Mr. C. C. Bassctt, the clerk of the parish, for refusing tho votes of those who had once withdrawn from the society, in a parish meeting, had nearly a dozen actions broiiglit against him in the courts. At length the crisis came, when one Saturday night the i\Iethodists took possession of the meeting-house, and, early on Sunday morning, placed their minister, Paul Townsend, in tho pulpit. As tho Orthodox jicoplc assembled, and the time drew near for the commencement of tho services, intense excite- ment prevailed, when Oliver Powers, Esq., stepped up to the pulpit and re(]uested Mr, Townsend to leave the desk. His reply was, that he had been placed there by tho committee of the First Parish in Phillipston to preach, and he should not vacate the desk. So excited had the people become, that a conflict seemed imminent, there being several pews filled with Methodists armed with clubs, determined to resist to the utmost any attempt to remove their minister from the pulpit. Finding that nothing could be accomplished without force. Rev. j\Ir. Chick- eiing and his people withdrew to the hall of 'Squire Gould, which they conti- nued to occupy until the trouble was settled. Action was brought against the Methodists for trespass, and entered in court; but this, and also the actions against parish clerk Bassett were settled before they came to trial, by compromise. The Methodists gave a bond, signed by each member who had been dissatis- fied, that they would never trouble tho society again, and the Orthodox relin- quished the fund, which was given to the town for the poor. The ilethodists first bad preaching in town about the year 1830. The first preacher of this denomination was Enoch Bradley, who preached in one of the school-houses, and also held a camp-mceling in a grovo near Goulding Village. A society Avas formed, and what is now called Pike's Hall was hired, some of the leading men of the town being connected with the society, and Laving ibr their preacher Paul Townsend. A meeting-house was built on tho Athol and Tomi)leton road in 1811), which was dedicated in the spring of 1850, from which time to 18()G there was regular preaching. Tho first minister sent l)y Conference, was Rev. G. Brown ; other ministers stationed here have been: Rev. Burtis Jiidd, Rev. W. A. Clapp, Rev. John Rickctt, Rev. J. S. W. Weeks, Rev. J. Wilson, Rev. E. D. Winslow, Rev. W. Phillips, Rev. N. II. Martin, Rev. J. Brackett, Rev. X. F. Stevens. From 1806 to 1870, there w.as preaching only a part of the time ; the church was then closed until 1877, when the society was reorganized by Presiding 220 TOWN OF PIIILLIPSTOX. Elder Iliiskell. They now have twenty members and a Sunday school, their preacher being Rev. MV. II. Marble, who supplies both this and the East Tem- pleton church. In 1833 a society was organized called the " Independent Religious Univer- salist Society ;" a meeting-house was soon built and preacbiiig was continued for several years. Among those who preached for the society were : Rev. John V. Wilson, Rov. Aurin Bugbce, Rev. G. Dushnell and others. The meeting- house has l)een taken down and removed to East Tcmpletou, where it is now used by the Methodist Society of that place. CHAPTER II. SECOND WAR AVITII ENGLAND NAME OF GERRY REPUDIATED NEW NAME FOR THE TOWN EDUCATION COLLEGIATE HONORS PUBLIC LIBRARY — BEQUESTS TO THE TOWN SPIRIT IN THE REBELLION MILITARY HISTOUY — AGRICULTURE LOCAL BUSINESS NATURAL FEATURES AND SCENERY CIVIL RECORD — BIOGRAPHICAL NOTES. The war of 1812 was strongly opposed by the people of Phillipston. Town meetings were held, at which resolutions denouncing in the most emphatic language the administration, and protesting against the war, were passed. The Hon. Elbridge Gerry, from whom the town was named, incurred their displeas- ure because of his political action, and at a town meeting held Jan. ISth, 1814, the following petition was adopted : — " The Honorable the Senate and House of Representatives in General Court Assembled : — "The inliabitauts of the town of Gerry humlily represent, that while they participate in comraon with their fellow citizens the sutferings and disgrace which the mad policy of their national government has brought upon their unhappj' country, and from wliich the}' fear the wisdom and patriotism of the State Legislature will be able to atl'ord but a partial relief, they would lay before your lion, body a grievance of a more local nature, and one which the}' rejoice, is entirely within your control. As the moral and political principle of a bodj* politic are supposed to be assimilated to those of the indi- vidual whose name thej' assume, and are estimated by the public according to that standard, your petitioners have long folt no small uneasiness and chagrin that they should support the name of a man who from the beginning was opposed to the National Constitution, and to the polities of Washington ; and who is reputedly hostile to the ministers and ordinances of religion : and they would respectfully represent to your Honors, that as they were never admirers of the moral or political character of the Gentleman whose name they bear, so neither was Gerr^' the name originally i)rayed for in the petition to become a town corporate ; and that they are under no obligation to that Gentleman for any favor or benefit conferred ; that the arbitrary and unjust iiolicy, PUBLIC LIBRARY. 221 vhicli has since characterized his administration, while cliief magistrate of this Common- wealth, lins rendered the name itself a terra of odium and reproach, and that by longer retaining it your petitioners would lie liable to the imputation of respect to a character, and adherence to th.o measures upon which the good people of this State have bestowed the most unequivocal disapprobation. Your petitioners, therefore, praj' that the act by which the}' were incorporated a town bv the name of Gerrj-, ma}- be so far re[)ea!od as that they ma\' be exonerated from the name and known in future as a town corpor.ate by the name of Phillipston. And as in duty bound will ever pr.ay. In legal Town Meeting assembled, this eighteenth day of Januar\', 1814. " Ignatius Goulding, Jr., Moderator, Naoum Wakd, Clerk." As a result of this petition the name of the town was changed to Phillipston, Feb. 5, 1814, in honor of Lieut. Gov. William Phillips. At the conclusion of peace between the United States and Great Britain, the event was celebrated at Goulding Village by the firing of guns, and the illumination of the residence of Col. Goulding. In the cause of education Phillipston has alwaj's taken a special interest, and her schools have ranked high among those of the State, while few towns of the size have sent so many of their sons and daughters to the colleges and semi- naries of the land. In 1790 it was voted to build three school-houses, and the sum of fort}^ pounds was appropriated for schooling. In 1840, $400 was raised for schools, in 1841, $550, in 1848, $600, and in 1875, $1,000, when there were six schools attended by 1G2 scholars. Among the college graduates from Phillipston are John IMilton Chencj', class of 1821, Harvard College; Oliver P. Powers, class of 1830, Amherst College; Jeremiah Lemuel Newton, class of 1850, Amherst College; Edward Pa3'son Baker, class of 1853, Am- herst College ; Fred Sanderson, class of 18G1, Amherst College; Julius San- derson, class of 1869, Amherst College ; AV. H. Bowker, class of 1871, IMassa- chusetts Agricultural College. Artomas Zina Brown graduated from tlie Medi- cal Department of Dartmouth College, in 1834 ; while many of the young ladies have graduated at ISIount Ilolyoke Seminary and other female seminaries. An institution in which the citizens of the town take commendable pride is the Phillips Public Librar}^ and well they may, for no other town in the State of the size of Phillipston has as fine a public library as this ; and we may safely saj' that there are few communities that avail themselves of the privi- leges so extensively as do the people of Phillipston, for with a population of onl}' GG6 the yearly circulation of the library is 7,412, averaging eleven vol- umes to each man, woman and child. The lilirary v,'as founded in 1800, and contains 3,404 volimies. It was the gift of Jonathan Phillips of Boston, a nephew of Lieut. Gov. Phillips, from whom the town received its name. The clause of the will in the bequest of Jonathan Phillips reads as follows : — " The 12th annual report of the Board of Education shows that the Town of Pliillips- ton, iu the County of Worcester, takes special interest in the cause of Education and 222 TOWN OF PHILLIPSTON. has taken a prominent, if not the first, rank among the towns of Massachusetts in the care and support of Public Schools — I therefore give five tlionxand doUars to said town as a trust fund, the income and produce of which shall annually' be expended in procur- ing books for a Town Library, and I constitute the Selectmen of said town for tiie time bcins trustees of said fund, and charge them with the duty of seeing to the true and beneficial application of said income, and the duo security of the capital sum, which shall not be directly or indirectly loaned to any inhabitant or resident of said town." At a town meeting hold Nov. G, 18C0, it was voted t!i:it the thanks of tho town of Piiillipston arc gratefully tendered to the executors of the will of Mr. Jonathan Phillips and bid heirs, for the liberal gift of $5,000 niudc to the town by said Phillips, and that wc and onr posterity will ever hold in grateful remem- brance, this generous benefactor of. onr tov/n. Another gift to the town is the legacy of Silas Stow, wiiich was left to the town in 1804. The bequest reads as follows: — " I give to the Town of Phillipston 20 shares of the Eliot Bank, Boston, and 20 shares in the Rollstone Bank, Fitchburg, the shares to be kept forever. The dividends, after adding one per cent, of the same each and everj' year for the term of 100 years \n said fund, the remainder or residue shall be applied to such public i)urpose as the town maj- direct at their annual tov.u meeting. Provided, however, that at no time shall said appropriation made from the interest accruing from said fund by said town, be in any manner whatever governed by non-real-estate owners. M}' intention is that the income of said bank stock, after adding one per cent, of said income to the principal of said fiuid for the term of one hundred years, shall be used so as to diminish, as far as possib'c, the sum to be raised by taxation upon real-estate owners or holders residing iu said town." The first town meeting after the breaking ont of the Rebellion, at which any action of the town was taken was May 2, 1861, when the following preamble and resolves were adopted : — " "Wliereas, The events of the past few days have disclosed to the astonished view of the people of this nation the fearful character of the crisis that is upon us. Our very existence as a Nation seems in peril. Therefore, In view of this extraordinary exigency, rendering life, libertj' and property unsafe, the inhabitants of Phillipston, in legal town meeting assembled, do adopt and make the following provisions to meet the crisis : — Resolved, 1st. That although our town is small in territory and population, and it cannot be expected that we should raise a full volunteer military company at the present time, we will yet make every effort to raise volunteers, to be joined to a company or companies in Templeton or other neighboring towns, such volunteers to bo equipped under the State authority, and tendered to the Government on call. '^ Resolved, 2d. That the town will furnish to each volunteer being a citizen of Phillipston a suitable uniform, not exceeding in cost S2J each, to be procured under the direction of a committee chosen for that purpose, the sum to be paid from the town treasury, and to be considered the property of the town for the use of said volunteers or their successors in case of vacancies." MILITARY INCIDENTS. 223 It was also voted "that the town will pay to each volunteer being a citizen of Pliillipston, while in actual service, in addition to the wages to which they arc entitled or may receive from Government per mouth, a sum sutlicient to make the wages one dollar for each and every day of actual service, and also pay to each of said volunteers fifty cts. for every half day that they may drill under the authori- ties legally constituted for that purpose, preparing for actual service, limited, however, in time, to an extent reasonably necessary," &c. Voted to appropriate $2,000 to cari-y out the foregoing. At a town meeting, July 23, 18i!2, it was voted to pay the sum of $100 to each volunteer, to the number of eight, and that the treasurer bo authorized to borrow the money. July 2, 18(54, it was voted that the selectmen bo instructed to draw $12.") from the treasury for every man, to make up our quota, that may bo furnished by volunteering for any future call by the President within the year. Piiillipston furnished during the war v.i the Rebellion sixty-eight men, who were true and noble soldiers, over ready to respond to duty, and who bravely followed their country's flag through many a hard-fought battle, the larger number serving in the 21st, 27th, and 30th Regiments < f three 3-ears' men. and the ^od of nine months' men. Frederick M. Sanderson, a student pursuing his studies at Amherst College, left the classic grounds of Amherst and enlisted as a private in the 21st Regiment; he was promoted to orderly sergeant, then second lieutenant, and afterwards to first lieutenant and captain. IIo was wounded at the battle of Roanoke Island. Some who would have been exempt from service, fired with patriotic ardor, enlisted, among whom was \yiliiam J. L:unb, who, when fifty years old, enlisted and did noble service f;)r liis country. Russell Carrnth was promoted from private to second lieutenant, and Pliny Fuller to sergeant. A monument has been erected l)y the town, which contains the following inscriptions : "in memory of odr comrades who sleep in souxnERX soil." The names inscribed are : V. Piper, 21st Mass. Regiment, Co. A ; Thomas II. Carruth, 14th N. H. Regiment, Co. A; J. II. LamI), 53d Mass. Regiment, Co. II; C. M. Bu.xton, SGth Mass. Regiment, Co. H; J. M. Newton, 30ih Mass. Regiment, Co. E; J. Rich, 3(!th Mass. Regiment, Co. II; G. A. Martin, 27th Muss. Regiment, Co. B; D. Hare, 3Gth Mass. Regiment, Co. D; A. P. Searlcs, 30th Mass. Regiment, Co. D. In the palmy days of militia trainings Phillipston had one of the largest and best military companies in this part of the State. An amusing incident which occurred during these times has been rehited to us. It seems that the captain and second lieutenant were al)ont moving out of town, and resigned their commissions. In the natural order of promotion the office of captain would be given to the first lieutenant, but a brother of his, not wishing him to become captain, offercJ to treat the company to gingerbread if, when the election took place, they would jinn^) him. Upon the election Ortlerly- 224 TOWX OF PinLLIPSTOX. sergeant C. C. B.issett was chosen captain. Soon after came the day for Ihc fall training, when the lientenant, who was in command of the company, angered at tlie sligiit jnit upon him, marched the company over tiic hills of the town from snnrise to snnset, without allowing them any lunch. Immediately on the dismission of tiic company attention was called to the promise made, and the gingerhrcad was brought out and distributed, each soldier receiving a sheet or more as he wished, when at a given signal, the soldiers, thinking their commander must be tired and hungry', urged him to accept of their gingerbread in such a manner that he could not refuse?, and for several minutes showers of gingerbread fell thick upon the unfortunate lieutenant. Piiillipston is pre-eminently an agricultural town. Situated on the highlands in the north-western part of the county, it abounds in excellent giaziug land, upon which feed fine herds of cattle. The farmers, not satisfied with continually following the old methods of farming, are ever ready to introduce the improvements which the scientific agriculture of the present day is contin- ually developing for their use. They have introduced upon their farms herds cf thoroughbred stock, their farm-buildiugs present a neat and iiltractivc appearance, labor-saving machinery and new and improved varieties of plants and seeds arc used, while the strong, rich soil brings forth good crops of all kinds of produce, which find ready market in the manufacturing villages of surrounding towns. They contribute largely to the annual exhibitions of the "Worcester North-west Agricultural and Mechanical Society, and carry away man}' of the prizes offered by that society. Among those largely and success- fully engaged in farming are : Henr\- S. Miner, Dea. Courllon Sanderson tS: Sou, P. Myrou, James W. Hager, J. Miller, Oliver Wellington, M. D. Fuller, Philastus Powers, Josephus cTifford & Son (Alfred D), Daniel G. Carruth & Son (James A.), George AYhitney, and Xelson Stone, with many others. The census of 1875 returns 12G farms, valued at $240,075, and the agricultural productions amounted to $P0,24G. Th.e domestic animals wore valued at $40,003, and the butter produced amounted to 32,036 pounds, valued at $11,591. There were 1,830 tons of haj' produced. At one time manufac- turing was carried on to some extent, there being in 1837 one cotton-mill turning out 1G5,000 yards of cotton goods annually, a woolen-mill which pro- duced 11,500 yards of cloth; and 65,500 palm-leaf hats were made. The only manufacturing of any note at present arc the chair factories of J. D. Parker and Francis Whitney, located at Goulding Village. For several years Phillipston was a more active business place than many of the surrounding towns. The mercantile firm of Isaac Bassett & Son, after- wards carried on by C. C. Bassett & Co., Lee, Boj'ntou & Co., and Lee & Bassett, did more business than any other firm in this part of the State, people coming from Alhol, Orange, Warwick, Petoi-sham, Dana, Norlhfiold, Iloyal- ston, Winchendon and the towns of southern New Hampshire, to trade at their store. The firm were also the second in the State to put out palpj-lcaf to braid. CIVIL RECOED. 225 and were largely engaged in that bnsiness, their sales in this branch of their business alone amounting to $125,000 in one year. Phillipston is bounded on the north by Royalston, on the cast by Templeton, south-west by Petersham, and on the west by Athol. Prospect Hill, situated about two mdes west of the Centre, is a large and fertile hill. From an emi- nence on this hill an extensive view of the surrounding country on every side is obtained, — more than sixteen villages, with nearly thirty church spires, arc in view, while the scenery of hill and mountain is magnificent. " All ! that such beauty, varying in the light Of living nature, cannot be portrayed Ey wonls, nor by the pencil's silent skill, But is the property of him alone Who hath beheid it, noted it with care, And in his mind recorded it with love." The town is exceedingly well watered by perennial streams and rivulets. Among these are Burnshirt River, which for some distance forms the boundary line between this town and Templeton. Beaver Brook and Mill Brook drain the northerly ])art of the town, the former for several miles forming the boundary between Phillipston and Templeton, and emptying its waters into ISIillcr'ri River in Royalston. Wine Brook rises in the south-west part of the town, and flows north-easterly through a beautiful valley. It derives its name from the color of its waters. Other streams are Moccasin Brook and a branch of Swift River. Phillipston has been represented at the State House by the following repre- sentatives : —Ithamar Ward, 1805, "6, '8, '9, '10, '12, '14, '15; Elijah Gould, 1811, '13; Dea. Joseph Knowlton, 1810, '17, '18, '19, '27, '29; John Doanc, 1821; Abel "White, 1831, '32, '33; Jason Goulding, 1834, '41, '-13, '44, '48, 'GG ; Capt. Lot Ddane, 1835; James Riuhardson, 1S3G, '37, '38, '40 ; Capt. James Carrulh, 1839; Peter Sanderson, 1842, *4G ; Charles C. Bassett, 1851, '52 ; AVilliam Miller, 1853, '54 ; Russell Carruth, 1859 ; Edward Powers, 18G3 ; James G. Smith, 1871 ; nenry S. Miner, 1875, '7G. Jason Goulding served as State Senator in 184G and 1847, and was a mem- ber of the Constitutional Convention of 1853. The following have served as Town Clerks : — Charles Baker, 1787, '88, '89 ; Jonathan Jones, 1790, '91, '92; Jason Ayres, 1793; Elijah Gould, 1794, '95; John Barnard, 179G, '97 ; Joseph Knowlton, 1798, 1802 to 1810 ; Elisha Cook, 1799, 1800; Nahnra Jones, 1801 ; Nahum Ward, 1810 to 1816, '22, '23; John Doanc, 181G; Oliver Powers, 1817, '18, '19, '20; Josiah Stockwcll, 1821; Francis C. Champncy, 1824 to 1827: James Stone, 1827 to 1830; Artemas Piper, 1830 to 1834; Charles C. Bassett, 1834, '35, '3G, and 1840 to '45; Joseph Knowlton, Jr., 1837, '38, '39; Russell Carruth, 1845, '4G, 'GO; Jason Goulding, 1847 to 1855; Pliny N. Ward, 1855; T. T. Miller, 1856 t.> I860 and 18G1 ; Thomas Martin, 1862 to 18G7 ; Lyman White, 1867, '68, '69, '70; A. A. Bolton, 1871 to 1879; Emory S. Bates, 1879. 22G TOWN OF PIIILLIPSTON. Ill politics the voters of Phillipston have generally gone together, almost to a man, wliethcr as Federalists, in the early days of the town, or later, as Wliijis and Republicans. So sure was the town in Whig times to go almost solid f(jr that party, that it hecainc designated in the political world as "The little star which never sets." The population of the town, since its incorporation, has l)een as follows : — ]7nO-74(); 1800-802; 1810-839; 1820-91G ; 1 830-9,'] 2 ; 1840-919; 1850- 809; 1855-799; 18r.0-7(;4; 18r)5-725; 1870-093; 1875-GGG. Harris Lodge of Freemasons was removed from Athol to Gerry in 1811, and for several years its meetings wei'e held at tlie hall of Eiijdi Gould. Tlie town now has a good band known as the Phillipston Brass Band, Aaron Vf. Merriara, leader. The present town otliccrs are : Clerk, Emory S. Bates ; selectmen, assessors and overseers of the poor, James A. Carruth, James Watts, Emory S. Bates ; school committee, C. Waldo Bates, George Whitney, George G. Smith ; treasurer and collector, S. E. Pike. Among those who have been prominently identified with the business, social and political history of the town, may be meutioned Col. Ignatius Gouidiug, who moved from Leicester to Gerry in 1811, and in company with Samuel Damon of Holden, engaged in the raanufocturo of cotton and woolen goods; three factories were built iu the east part of the town, and for man}' ^^ears a large business was carried on there. lie was a man of influence among his townsmen, and was active in obtaining the change in the name of the town from Gerry to Phillipston. Hon. Jason Goulding, son of Col. Ignatius Goulding, was born in Paxton Oct. 2G, 1801, and came with his father to Gerry iu 1811. He was a clerk iu a store at Holden for seven years, and during the rest of his life has alwa^ys resided in Phillipston. He has held many oflices of trust and honor in his town, count}', and State, serving as State Senator from this district in 184G and 1847 ; has been a member of the Legislature five j-ears, the first time in 1834 and the last in 186G ; was a member of the Constitutional Convention of 1853 ; special commissioner of Worcester County for six years ; justice of the peace for more than forty j'ears ; postmaster about thirty years, and has held nearly every town oflice. He is a leading member of the Congregational church, and still lives in the town where he has s[)ent so active a life. Edward Powers, who was a farmer and extensive lumber dealer, was a man honored and respected by the entire community. Ho held important town offices, and represented his district in the Legislature. He removed to Athol ill 1878, where he died in the summer of 1879. At the time of his death he was a director of the Athol National Bank. Deacon Conrtlon Sanderson was largely engaged in the tanning business for man}- years ; he now devotes his time to agriculture, being one of the progress- NOTABLE PERSONS. 227 ive f;iraiers of the day, who believes in tlie dignity and honor of his calling. lie has been President of the Worcester North-west Agricultural and Mechan- ical Society, and a member of the State Board of Agriculture. Among the sons of Phillipston, who have gone from their native town, and have gained honor and distinction in their adopted homes, are Rov. P. O. Pow- ers, who graduated at Amherst College, and went as missionary to Turkey. He sailed for that place uuder the auspices of the American Board, Nov. 12, 183-1, and died in Hassab, Turkey, Oct. 2, 1872 ; a daughter, Harriet G. Pow- ers, is now a missionary teacher in Turkey. Jeremiah L. Newton, graduated at Amherst in the class of 1850, was princi- pal of the Brown Ladies' School, at Newburyport, three )'ears, and of the Bath Academy and High School at Bath, Me., for five years. He went to Boston in 1859 and entered upon the practice of law, in which he is engaged at the present lime. Was elected a member of the Common Council of Boston for three suc- cessive years, and a member of the Legislature two years, from the city of Boston. Dr. Horace L. Bowker was born in Phillipston Nov. 22, 1832, and went to Boston in 1861, where he commenced the practice of medicine, in which he continued for eight years, when he became interested in chemistry and went into business as a manufacturing chemist, in which he is now engaged. Pie was elected a member of the City Council of Boston in 18G4, and served in the Legislatures of 1873, 1875 and 1878. Was appointed State Assa^'er for Mas- sachusetts in 1877, which office he now holds. The author extends thanks to Hon. Jason Goulding and Charles C. Bassett, Esrj., for valuable information. Also to L. B. Caswell, C. E., of Athol, for aid in preparation of MS., and to all others who have assisted him in obtaining material, and iu the preparation of this, the first extended history of Phillips- ton. 228 TOWN OF PRINCETON. PRINCETON, BY nON. CHARLES THEODORE RUSSELL. CHAPTER I. TOPOGRAPniCAL SITUATIOX WACHUSETT MOUNTAIN — INDIAN POSSESSIONS — SUBSnSSION OF THE TRIBES TO THE ENGLISH — SUBSEQUENT OUTBREAK — MRS. ROWLANDSON'S SUFFERINGS — PURCHASE OF THE TERRITORY — ORIGINAL ALLOTMENTS LABOR GRANTS. Princeton is situated iipf)ii the highlands of Worcester County, a little north of its centre, and about midway of a line drawn nearly west from Boston to Connecticut River. It <-omprises more iIimu 22,000 acres of rough, hill}', broken hut fertile land, and constitutes one of the finest mountain regions of the State. It is bounded northerly by Westminister; easterly by Leominster and Sterling; southerly by Ilolden and Rutland; and westerly by Hubbanl- Bton. Ill its northern section, rises in graceful outline and beauty, Wachusitt mountain, and with its adjacent hills occupies much the larger part of it. The mountain rears its rocky and wooded sides two thousand and eighteen fi t above the sea, and some thousand above Pine Hill on its cast, and little Waclui- sctt on its west. The three constitute a range, which, viewed from the south and east, is rarely surpassed in picturesque and quiet loveliness. The highest laud between the sea and Connecticut River, and with the exception of Grcylock, and one or two of the hills of central and southern Berkshire, in the State, it naturally attracted the early notice of the settlers upon Massachusetts Bay. Jan. 27, 1()?>2, old style, Feb. 7, 1G33, by present reckoning, Winthrop, in his jouiiimI, writes: — "The Ciovcrnour and some company with him went up by Cliarlcs River about eight miles above Walerlown."* After naming certain streams and hills there found : — "On tlie west side of Mount Fcake, tlicy went up a very high rock, from whcnio they raiglit sec all over Neipnclt, and a very liigh hill, due west about forty miles olT, & to the N. "W. the high hills by Merrimack above sixty miles off."* * 1 Wiutlirop's Jour., C3. INDIAN INHABITANTS. 229 This is tlie first mention, and probably the first sight of any portion of "Worcester County hy the colonists, as no part of its wilderness was traversed by civilized man, until Hooker's company, or their iumiediate predecessors, made their expedition towards the Connecticut in 1G35. Princeton then belonged to the Nashaways or Nashuas, who held the lands on and west of the river which still bears their name. Their sachem had his royal wigwam between the Waschacums in Sterling. The region was naturally the resort, if not the residence, of the Indians. In l()4;i Wiathrop relates that — " At this court Cutshamekin and squaw sachem, Mascononoco, Nashacowam and Wassamagoin, two sachems near the great bill of the west, called Wachusett, came into the court, and according to their fonner tender to the governor, desired to be received under our protection and government, upon the same term that Pumham and Sacononoco were ; so we causing them to understand the articles, and all the ten com- mandments of God, and thej' freely assenting to all, they were solemnlj' received, and then presented the court with 2G fathom more of wampom, and the court gave each of them a coat of two yards of cloth and their dinner ; and to them and their men every one of them a cup of sack at their departure, so the3- took leave and went awaj- very joyful."* A more extended account of this sulimission is given in the records of the Massachusetts Bay. As one of the earliest of the Indian treaties, of which our States and Country have since made so many, we give its record entire : — " Wossamcgon, Nashowanon, Cutshamache, Mascanomet & Squa Sachim did volun- tarily submit themselves to us, as appeareth b^- their covenant subscribed w"" their own hands, hear following, & oth'' articles to w*^"" the^' consented — '•Wee have & b)' these presents do voluntaril3- uf christian townes. An : It is easy to y™ ; the}' have not much to do on any day, A; t!ic'\ can well take their ease on y' day. "4. To hono' their parents & all their supio''s. An: It is their custome to do so, for the inferio's to bono' their supio's. "5. To kill no man w"'out iust cause and iust authorit}'. Ans : This is good & thcv desire to do so. " G. To comit no unclean lust, &c. . . . An: Though sometime some of y"" ilo it, yet the)' count that naught, & do not alow it. " 7. Not to steale. An : They say to y' as to y" G"" quere. " To suffer their children to learn to reade Gods word, y' they m.ay earn to know God aright, & worship in his owne way. "They say, as oportunity will serve, & English live among y™, they desire so to do. " That they should not be idle. " To these they consented, acknowledging y'" to bee good. " Being received bj- us, they psented 2G fathome of wampum, & the court directed the Treasurer to give them five coats, two v^ards in a coate, of red cloth, & a potfull uf ■wine."* In spite of this solemn compact, supplemented by religious instruction, ami ratified In" the parting "pot full of wine," its makers, within a genenition, were engaged in savage hostilities with the government, to which they had acknowl- edged allegiance, and from the summit of the mountain they had surrendered, devoted its towns to jjillage and slaughter. At the outbreak of the Narragan- set war, in 1675, they joined King Philip, and after his defeat in his own coim- try, the " lands about the AVachusetts " became one of the head-tjuarters of his followers, where he was freipiently present. lu 1(37(3, although some of them had received the pious instructions of Eliot and Gookin, they made the disastrous attack upon Lancaster, so familiar to us from the simple and touch- ing narrative of Mrs. Ilowlandson. After her capture she was taken to this mountain, and by successive "Removes," through tiie wilderness to Squakeag (Northticid), on the Connec- ticut. "After many weary steps," says this trustful, Christian woman, returning from her wilderness, winter wanderings, " We came to Wachusett." As they approached it through a great swamp " up to their knees in mud and water," she says: "Going along, having indeed my life, but little spirit, Philip (who was in the company) , came up and took me b}' the hand and said, ' Two weeks more and you shall be mistress again.' I asked him if he spoke true? He answered, 'Yes, and quickly you shall come to your master again." She remained at Wachuset, until released. Not only was King Piiilii) with her * Muss. Col. Records, Vol. II., p. 55. A SAD CAPTIVITY. 231 Ciiptors, but several other of the leadiug Sagamores, and among them Qninna- piu, the master of Mrs. Rowlandson, and his wife, the celebrated "Squaw Sachim," Metamoo, "Queen of Pocasscl," "a severe and proud Dame," says her captive, "bestowing every Day in dressing iiersclf near as mucli Time as any of the Gentry of the Land, powdering her Hair and painting her Face." "Next nnto Phillip in respect to the mischief that hath been done and the blood that hath been shed in this warr,"' sa3's Cotton Mather. Mrs. Eowlandson was here when the Indians returned from Marlborough, and witnessed and graphically descrilics their grand powwow, preparator}' to attacking Sudburj', as well as that on the icturn Irom that slaughter. That "Wachnsett" Avas at this time "the Ilcad-quartcrs" of the hostile Indians appears, not only from Mr.^. Rowlandson's narrative, but from those of Hubbard and Mather, the letters of Ca[)t. Henchman, iu command of the Col- ony forces, and official communications to the Indians by the General Court, ^lay 3, 1676, it sent Seth Perry as its "messenger to the sachems at Wachu- sets," with a letter, addressed lo "the Saggamore about Watchusetts, Phillip, John, Sam, Waskaken, Old Queen and Pomham," all leading sachems iu Indian history. But before Perry, "On a sabbath, the sun being about au hour high in the afternoon, came Mr. John IToar (the council permitting him, and bis own forward spirit inclining him), with the two Indians, Tom & Peter, with the third letter from the Council." He at once opened negotiations for Mrs. Rowlandson's release. The narra- tive continues : — '• In the morning Mr. Hoar invited the Saggaraores to dinner ; init when we wont to get it ready we found the^y had stolen the greater part of llio provisions Mr. Hoar had hrouglit." Tliis graceless act worked less mischief in these early diplomatic AVachusett festivities than it might, "because," as the lady says, — " ' Mr. Iloar called them betime to dinner, but they eat but little, they being so busy in dressing themselves & getting read}" for their dance ; whicli was carried on Ij}' eigiit of them, four men and four squaws ; my master ind mistress being two. He was dressed iu his liolland shirt, witli great stockings, his garters hung round with shillings, and had girdles of wampum upon his heail and shoulders. She had a kerse^' coat, covered with girdles of wampum from the loins upward. Iler arms, from lier elbows to her hands, were covered with bracelets ; there were handfuls of necklaces about her nock, and several sorts of jewels in her ears. She had fine red stockings, and white shoos, her hair powdered, and her face painted red, that was always before black. And all the dancers were after the same manner.'" The nanalive proceeds: — " On Tuesday morning, they called their Gcner.il Court (as they stiled it), to consult and determine whether I should go home or no. And they all seemingly consented that I should go, except Philip, who would not come among them." This absence of Philip is c.xplaiucd by a previous passage in the narrative : — 232 TOWN OF PRINCETON. "Philip smelling the business, called me to liim, & asked me what I would give bim to tell me some good news, & to speak a good word for me that I might go home to-morrow. I told him 1 could not tell what to give him ; I would any thing I had, & asked him what he would have? He said two coats, & 20 shillings in money, & half a bushel of seed corn, & some tobacco. I thanked him for his love, but I knew that good news as well as that crafty fox." On the 30th of April, olil stylo, i\Ifs. Rowlandson was released to I\Ir. Hoar, at a place tradition still points out, in a meadow, near a gigantic bowlder, ever since known as "Redemption Rock, at the eastern base of the mountain and near the shores of Ihc pond of the same name ; hut not, however, mitil Mr. Hoar had been obliged to conciliate the royal Quannapiu with a pint of rum, upon which he at once got beastly dnmk, to the no small alarm of his captive, and scandal of his royal spouse. With the close of the war the Indians practically resigned forever this beau- tiful spot to their persistent invaders. Ill 1G82, commissioners Stougbton and Dudle}', appointed to negotiate with the Nipmucks for their lands, report a purchase from "Black James," but say "The Northern part, towards AV^acliusett is still unpurchased, and persons yet scarcely to he found meet to be treated loith thereabouts." Four years later private enterprise was more successful, and Henry Willard, Joscpli Rowlandson, Joseph Foster, Benjamin Willard and Hyperion Stevens purchased of Puagastion, Pompamamay, AVannapan, Sassawannow and Qiiali- punit, "a certain tract of lands Medows, Swamps, Timbers, Etervils contain- ing twelve miles square." For this they paid twenty-three poinids, or about eighty cents a square mile. This territoiy included the southern and larger part of Princeton. Nothing seems to have been done under this deed nntil 1714, when the General Court, on the application of the sons and grandsons of Maj. Simon Willard and others confirmed to them the title, provided there should be set- tled on the lauds sixty families in seven years, and "sullicicnt lands reserved for the use of the gospel minister and school." Three plans of this purchase, known as Naquag, are in the archives of tho Commonwealth ; tho last a ver}' accurate one presented by Rev. Thomas Prince aud others, a committee of the proprietors, in 1749, when they asked the grant of a land tax. Upon this, the portion afterwards included in Prince- ton is laid down as Rutland East Wing. It is a parallelogram nearly, all its lines being perfectly straight, the cast aud west each eleven hundred ami fifty rods, the south sixteen hundred and ninety rods, and tho north sixteen hundred rods. Its area varies somewhat on those and later plans, a fact not surprising in those da3's of liberal allowance "for sags of the chain." It contained about eleven thousand and seven hundred acres, and tho north line separating it from the Province lands, then unsurveyed and extending far beyond, ran straight from the south-oast corner of what was subsequently known as the WACHUSF.TT HOUSE, I'UINCKTON, MAS EAELY LOCATIONS. 233 letter M lot to the extreme south-west edge of Waehusett. The Meeling- IIoiisc Hill was then called Turkey Hill, and this line ran along the depression between the Wachusetts, where the road now passes. This tract remained in common, neither surveyed nor exi)lored, till 1718, when it was divided I)y the proprietors into forty-eight farms of two hundred and thirty-seven acres each. At this time, there were thirty-three proprietors, and at a meeting in Boston, November 5th of that year, one of these farms was assigned to each by lot. The three meadow lots — Pout Water, Waehusett and Dead Meadow — were reserved for common use. Twelve lots, marked l)y proprietors from A to M. were also reserved, — eleven for the proprietors, the other "for the lirst ordained minister of Rutland." The full list of the proprie- tor.-;, with the lot of each, is recorded in their records. The lettered lots were owned in common until Sept. 24, 1734, when, at a meeting of the proprietors at the Royal Exchange Tavern, Boston, these lots, together with the "gores and gussets," were divided. At the same meeting, it was voted that sixty-three acres " in lot No. A [this included the Meeting- IIousc IliilJ, not having been set off to any of the proprietors, by reason of the brokenness of it, be granted to Rev. Mr. Thomas Prince, in consideration of the great care and labor he has taken in calculating and computing the divisions above-mentioned, and other good services performed to the pro- prietors." In November, 1736, the Waehusett, Pout Water and Dead Meadow lots were divided, in the division one acre of meadow being "valued as three acres of upland." Thus the whole territory became subdivided, and passed to indi- viduals. Of these, the Rev. Mr. Prince, as the proprietor of five shares, was the largest owner, although he does not appear to have been a jiroprietor at the division of 1718. Probabl}' still further purchases were made by him before 175!). The northerly and remaining portion of the town, comprising at its incor- poration seven thousand two hundred and eighty-three acres, is composed of several distinct grants. The largest and most important was nuule to the towns of Weston and Watertown. In 1()51, Watertown, then embracing AVeston, was involved in a controversy with Sudbury, as to boundaries, which the General Court settled in favor of Sudl)ury. At the same time, it passed an order that "Water Towne shall have two thousand ackers of land laid out nere Assabeth River, in respect of such land as was wanting to them, which was granted them formerly by this Court to be the boimds of their towne." For some reason, this grant never took effect, or was never located. In 1728, Watertown and Weston, which had then been incor|ir)rated, petitioned to have it revived; and, in June of that year, the Creiieral Court granted to those towns two thousand acres, to be located in any unai)propriatcd lands of the Province. In November, it was selected, surveyed, and a plan returned 234 TOWN OF PRINCETON. to the General Court, iu which it is described as "iu the unappropriated huid, joining to the Great Wachnsett Hill, bounded south-westerly In' Rutland line of llieir township, every other way b}' Province land." This tract ran on the Rutland lino a little more than two and a half miles. Its lines are all .straiirht except the west, which is very daintily deflected to exclude the mountain, and at the same time include all the valuable land at its base. Wachusett was uo favorite with the land-seekers. This tract, comaienciiig at a point on the line of Rutland East Wing, a little south-easterly of the Whitney Hill, extended to East Princeton, including a ])art of that village, and thence over or to the north of Pine Hill to the !)ase of Wachusett, and thence along this to the Rutland line. It was known as the AValertown Farm, and is usually so called in the public docutnents of the time. It was sold by the towns to proprietors, and by them divided into farms of equal value. Another grant of fifteen hundred acres was made to Thomas Plaisted. This tract is usually called the Potash Farm in the public records. When grautcd is uncertain. In 17G0, the General Court directed William Richardson to demand of Timothy Mosman possession of the "fifteen hundred acres granted Plaisted on certain conditions which were not fulfilled by him." In 17(51, they sent a committee to prevent and prosecute the encroachments upon this farm of Lancaster, that town then including Sterling, and cluiiuing some part of it to be within its bounds. In 170)2, an attempt was made to sell this, a farm of eighty acres west of it, and the Wachusett, at auction, putting them up at a limited minimum price. The same year, Ezra Taylor, as a committee, came tip and ran the lines of the Potash Farm, and reported that he found the most valuable part of the timber cut, and adds: "I can't find out any person who has done it except one, Timothy Mosman, who was then in possession." In 17CJ, the General Court, on the last day of its session, granted the farm to Gen. Timothy Rnggles, the speaker, "in testimony of their grateful sense of the important services he rendered iiis country during the late war." Besides these larger, there were various grants to individuals. In 172!1, three hundred acres to Rev. Joseph Willard of Rutland, and two hundred to Benjamin Muzzy. In 1732, four hundred to Rev. Benjamin Allen, and two hundred, in 1733, to Joseph Stevens, and one hundred and twenty to Joshua Wilder, Jr., iu 1743. There were also the Blagrow and the Mayhew farms, and there was included iu (he town at the incorporation a considerable area of Province land, of which the mountain was part. FIRST SETTLERS. 235 CHAPTER II. BEGINNING OF SETTLEMENT INCORPORATION AND NAME FIRST MEETING - HOUSE OLD-TIME MINISTERS — CnURCU HISTORY — MORE RECENT DENOM- INATIONS PRESENT CONDITION MOUNTAINOUS FEATURES HOTELS AND SUMMER VISITORS WAR RECORD SPIRIT OF LIBERTY, EDUCATION AND RELIGIOUS LIFE. As parly as 1734 %'otcs were passed by the Rutland proprietors in reference to "bringing forward settlements in the East wing," but none were made. The first settlement was made not upon this tract, nor npon "the "Watertown farm," but by an enterprising pioneer upon a grant obtained by him from the Province. In 1742 .Joshua Wilder, Jr., grandson of Nathaniel Wilder of Lancaster, who was grandson of an earlier Nathaniel, killed in the Indian attacks upon that town, presented a petition to the General Court, wherein he sets forth : — "That the distance between Lancaster and a new town called Nicbewang (I'ctor- sham) is about 25 miles : That about ten miles west of Lancaster Meeting-IIousc there is a tract of Province land, which contains about 120 acres lying between land fornierl}- granted to Mr. Plaisted and Allen, and a farm called Blagrow fiirm, which lys out of the bounds of any Town. That j-our petitioner, though a poor man, yet he humbly apprehends lie hath the character of an Honest and Laborious man, and is minded to settle himself and familj' thereon. "That, therefore, he is very desirous of obtaining a grant of said land on such condi- tions as may be consistent with your Excellency's and Honorable wisdom, on as easy terms as maybe, and should he obtain it, he apprehends it would be of great service to Iieoplc travelling from Lancaster to the new towns now settling westward, to have a house to depart to in their travelling." Upon this petition the Court made the grant, provided the petitioner "does within one year have a good and convenient house built thereon for the accom- modation of Travellers, and have ten acres thereof cleared and brought to English grass or plowing within four 5'ears, and that he dwell therein wiih his family, or have other good family dwell thereon." Upon this grant, made in aid of the pioneer emigrants to the then West, Mr. Wilder settled in 1743. He continued to occupy it until 1755, when bo con- vcj-ed it to Benjamin Houghton. The next settler, and the first in the Rutland tract, was Abijah Moore, subsequently a leading man in the town and church, who began the farm now owned by Thomas II. Russell, and there opened a second tavern. The third settler was Mr. Checver, in the southerly part of the East wing. The fourth was Robert Keyes, noted as a hunter, and hence probably guided in his choice of settlement. He settled npon the farm on the back of Pino Hill, and upon the eastern slope of Wachusett, where the present carriage-road 236 TOWN OF PRINCETON. to its summit commences. Shortly after his settlement, he lost a daughter, who strayed into the woods, following her older sisters, who had gone to the iiciirhhorin'i' pond. No traces of her were ever found. In 17G5 Mr. Keyes presented a petition to the General Court, in which he says : — " In y' year of 175.5 lie lost one of his children, and was supposed to be taken by the Indians and carried to Canada. Wlien it; was first lost it was apprehended to be in the woods, wandering about, & your petitioner was at great cost and troul)le in searcliing the woods for it, but to no good purpose ; after this he hears that it was at Canada & tliat Lc could get further information thereof at Porchmouth in New Hampshire; on hearing that he went there, & also sent to Canada afterwards, lie advertised said child in the New York papers, & upon that he had an account of such child being among tlie Mohawks & iletermined to go after his child last Fall, but has hitherto been prevented by reason of sickness and death in his family. And the loss he hath been at in seeking for said child hath been so great, being about 100 pounds lawful money, that he is not able to bear it, being in a new plantation, & as there is within sixty rods of his door some Province land lying on yc Watchusetts hill, which would be some advantage to him providing lie could have it ; therefore, j-our Petitioner prays this Hon. Court to take Lis case in your compassionate consideration & make him a grant of ye easterly half of said Wacliusett hill." This petition is endorsed " negatived" in the handwriting of the secretary. The mountain itself, containing about .500 acres, wc may here add, was granted by the Province in 17G8 to Rev. Timothy Fuller, then minister of the town. Subsequent to 1750 settlements must have been quite rapid, as in 1759, after no little controversy between the inhabitants of "the Wing" and "the Farms," a petition of fortj'-live citizens representing that neither "the Wing" nor "the Farms" alone would be able to defray the charges of building a meeting house, settling a minister and maintaining the Gospel among them, and making roads, without an intolerable heavy tax"; that " both Wing and Farms are at present under ver3' ditiioult circumstances by the c.Ktrcme distance, & badness of the roads to the public worship of God in any other town," and praying for incorporation as a town, was presented to the General Court. At the same session a petition was presented by twenty-one other citizens, in answer to the first petiticm, and praying that "the East wing" might bo incorporated as a town or district. lu this petition, among other things, they aver that "Ihey had rather have one-quarter of their Reel estate taken from them, than to be obliged to Joyno with these people," (the Farms) "where they are certain they shall always live in Trouble and Difficulty." A controversy of considerable asperity arose, but ended in the incorporation of the whole territory as a District on the 20th of October, 1759, under the name of Prince Town. The fears of the southerners were speedily allayed, and from that day to this never has a town been more free from sectional strife or animosities. LOCAL BEGINNINGS. 237 The lown was named in honor of Rev. Thomas Prince of the Old South Church, Boston, one of Ihe largest of the Ruthmd proprietors, and their secre- tary, and who had then recently died. The first District Meeting was held Dec. 24, 1759, at Mr. Moore's tavern, where all meetings continued to be held until the meeting-house was so far built as to be used- in 17G3. The records of these meetings, until 1761, arc lost from the record book. Dr. Zachariah Harvey was the first town clerk, and was evidently then the most influential citizen. The petition for incorporation is in his handwriting, and in 17G1 he was not only clerk, but moderator, chair- man of the selectmen, of the assessors, and agent to the General Court. The pi'occedings of the meeting, however, at which he attained this plurality of offices, were contested ; a protest declaring them illegal " by reason of the meeting not being purged from such persons or voters as are unqualitied by law to vote," was filed. A memorial was sent to the General Court charging the doctor with pretty high-handed measures, and pra^-ing to have all the pro- ceedings declared void, because "many persons" were "admitted to vote that were not legal voters, & some that were not even inhabitants." lie was culled upon " to render an account of the proceedings complained of," which he did in an answer, missing I'rom the files. The decision was in his favor and the proceedings confirmed. The only roads then existing were the Province Road from Lancaster to Sun- derland, along the north-cast line of the town, crossing the edge of Wachusett Pond in Westminster; a road to ITubbardston, and a road from Westminster line, south of the mountain, near Meeting-llouse Ilill, to Iloldcn. Upon incorporation, it became at once the duty of the district to build a meeting-house and settle a gospel minister. The house was not located with- out controversy ; several meetings were held, and finally a committee was se- lected from Bolton, Iloldcn and AVestminster, with surveyors from Westbor- ough and Rutland, "all to be under oath for the trust committed to them to survey the town, find the centre, and affix the place for building the meeting- house on." The report of this committee would be of great interest, but it is unfortunately lost. The town refused to accept it, and finally voted to build the house "on the highest part of the land" (Meeting-house Hill) "given l)y John and Caleb Mirick, near three pine trees, marked, being near a huge flat rock." The trees are gone, but the rock remains, a favorite resort of modern visitors, who, obtaining from it a remarkably fine sunset view, have christened it "Sunset Rock." Here a meeting-house "fifty foots long and forty foots wide" was built, and remained until 179(), when it was superseded by its laigor and more elegant successor, upon the same spot, Mhere it stood a conspicuous and bcautifid hmdniark to the surrounding country, until unwisely removed in 1838. The first preaching in the district was at the tavern of Mr. IMoore, where an old lady living in 1838, then informed the writer that she heard the sermon preached by Rev. Mr. Harrington of Lancaster, on the occasion of the iucorpo- 238 TOWN OF PRINCETON. ration. "There were then," she said, " but a handful of us, Mho found our way to church by marked trees." Estimating liy the petitioners for incorporation, there must tlicn luivc I)een not over three hundred and fifty iuhal)itants in the district, — probably less. The first church was formed Aug. 12, 17G4, and its covenant, that usual in Congregational churches of the time, was signed i)y eighteen citizens, and by no females. In 17G7 the Rev. Timothy Fuller, after a call had been declined by the Rev. Sewall Goodrich, was settled as the first minister by the church and district. On the 24th of April, 1771, upon petition of the district, it "with all the lands adjoining to said District, not included in an}' other town or District" was incorporated into a town by the name of "Princeton." The additions of this act increased the area of the town to somewhat more than twenty-two thousand acres. It contained then ninety-one dwelling-houses, and of its ter- ritory eighty-three and three-fourths acres had been redeemed to tillage, one thousand and eighty-throe to pasturage land ; its population was about seven hundred, and included one slave. As the Constitution and laws then were, the town was the parish, and con- tinued to act as such until the amendment of the Constitution relieving the people from compulsory support of religious worship, in 1833. For nearly fift}--three years, down to the settlement of Rev. Samuel Clarke in .Time, 1817, there was no difference of religious sentiment in the church or town. In 17G8 the General Court granted Mr. Fuller the mountain, in consideration of his settlement with "a heavily burdened people" in a "wilderness country," and thus this grandest and most interesting object in the landscape, unfortu- nately passed into private hands. Mr. Fuller, after no little and bitter controversy, was dismissed at the open- ing of the Revolution, on account of difficulties between him and his people, growing out of that great conflict. Mutual confidence was, however, after the war, restored. Mr. Fuller came back to reside in Princeton, and in 1789 was its delegate to the State Convention to act on the Federal Constitution, when he gave his vote against it, on the ground, it is said, of its implied recognition of slavery. The ministers who succeeded Mr. Fuller, up to 1817, were the Rev. Thomas Crafts, settled in 1780 and dismissed, at his request, in 1791; Rev. Joseph Russell, settled in 1796, and dismissed, at his request, in 1801 ; the Rev. James Murdock, D. D., settled in 1802, and dismissed in 181."), to assume a professorship in the University of Vermont. At the dismission of Dr. Murdock the town, and a minority of the church, had adopted the Unitarian sentiments, then so largely developing among the Congrcgationalists of Massachusetts. Princeton became the scene of one of the earlier and exciting conflicts between church and town, which grew out of this development. RELIGIOUS CONTROVERSIES. 239 Aug. 26, 181G, the Rev. Saimiel Clarke, a graduate of Dartmouth College, and a theological pupil of the late Dr. Channiug, was "called" by the town, without previous action by the church, by a vote of one hundred and two to ibrt3'-four, to settle as Dr. Murdoch's successor, from whom he was known to differ upon material points of religious faith. The church resented this action of the town as irregular and mi-congregalional, and refused by a largo majority to concur in it. The town was disposed to carry out to the full extent the sjiirit of the then recent judicial decisions, as to the relative rights of church and town : and after a second ineffectual attempt to get the concurrence of the church, resolved to proceed without it. Mr. Clarke declined its call. Then fallowed renewed calls by the town, and refusals by the church. An ecclesias- tical council was called, a majority of which advised the settlement of Mr. Clarke, and agreed to recognize so many of the members of the church as should adopt an amended C(jvcnant, submitted by this majority, "as the Church of Christ in Princeton." This " Result " was warmly discussed at the time by Rev. Dr. Bancroft of Worcester, of the majority, and by Rev. Dr. Goffe of ]\Iillbury, of the minority of the council, in elaborate pamphlets. Mr. Clarke accepted the call of the town and this minority of the church, and was ordained June 18, 1817, the Rev. Dr. Pierce of Brookline preaching the sermon. He continued in ofEco until 1832, when, at his request, he was dismissed. A large majority of the church, acting as the church, left the house of wor- ship, — refused to recognize Mr. Clarke as their pastor, and voted to adopt the government of the Presbyterian Church of the United States, its articles of faith and discipline, and to become connected with the Newburyport Presbytery. In 1819 they built a small house of worship near the existing meeting-house, their rights, after some litigation, having been recognized by the town. In 1820 the Rev. Alonzo Phillips was settled as pastor of this church. The ordination sermon was preached by the Rev. Professor Woods of Andover, a native of the town. The church subsequently dissolved its connection with the Presbytery, and returned to the Congregational order. The town under the amended constitution ceased to be a parish, and a society was organized. After the dismission of Mr. Clarke, various cfl'orts were made to re-unite the two churches but without success. In 1833, Rev. John P. Cowlcs, an Orthodox Congregationalist, was settled as Mr. Clarke's successor, and the original church covenant restored. Mr. Cowles, at his own request, was dismissed in October, 1834. Efforts were now renewed for a union, which resulted, after several ecclesiastical councils, in partial success. In 1836, Mr. Phillips, at his own request, was dismissed by the church and society to which he had for sixteen years ministered. In the same year Rev. Elijah Demond was settled over the united church and society. He was disnnssed at his request in 1839, and in the following year Rev. Willard M. Harding succeeded him, and continued the pastor until 1844, when at his request he was dismissed, and succeeded by Rev. Alfred Goldsmith iu 1845, 240 TOWN OF PRINCETON. who, at his request, was dismissed in 1849, and was succeeded by Rev. Henry Weeks in 1852 ; at his request he was dismissed in 1855 ; Rev. Vriliiam T. Briggs succeeded him in 1856, and was dismissed at his request in 1863. The church was then supplied for three or four years by Rev. Mr. Zclie, until Rev. Roger M. Sargent was installed in 1869, and at his request dismissed in 1871. In 1876, Rev. George M. Howe, the present pastor was ordained. In 1838 the society built the neat and commodious-meeting house in the centre of the town, in which it now worships. lu 1817, a Baptist society was organized by residents of this town and Holden. It was supplied with preaching part of the time, mainly by Rev. Elisha Andrews. In July, 1822, a church was organized. In 1826, Rev. Elias Johnson became and remained its pastor until 1830. In 1828, a small brick meeting-house was built about a mile north of the centre of the town. In October of that year. Rev. Appleton Morse became pastor and so remained until April, 1832. He was succeeded in July, 1834, by Rev. Nchemiah G. Lovell, who remained pastor until 1836, and was in 1837 succeeded by Rev. Mason Ball, who remained until 1841, when he was succeeded by Rev. Orlando Cunningham, dismissed in 1844. Meantime the society erected a new and much larger meeting-house, nearly opposite that of the Congregational ists in the vil- lage. After 1844 the society became greatly reduced and subsequently ceased to exist. Its meeting-house was sold and became the hotel, now the Prospect House. In 1839 a Methodist Episcopal church was organized and during that and tlic next year a commodious house of worship was built at the village, a little north of the centre of the town, and a society duly organized. Since then it has had a regular succession of the able and efficient ministers which, according to its forms and practice, that large and intliicntial branch of the Christian church is accustomed to locate upon its stations throughout the country. The inhabitants of this toAvn have ever been in full sympathy with the spirit of the Comuiouwealth, not only religious, but political, educational and social. They have alwa3-s been an inteliigont, industrious, cultured, agricultural people, none very rich, and all practically above distressing want. They have contributed with New England liberality in support of all institu- tions of education, religion and charit}'. Almost exclusively devoted to agri- culture, in one department of it, that of rearing fine cattle, and in products of the dairy, they have won a well deserved reputation. Since its early days the town has not increased in numbers and has less now than in earlier periods of its history. The venerable historian of Worcester County, in 1793, says: — " In little more than thirty years from its incorporation, Princeton is become very consideraljlc among the towns of the count}'. It has surprisingly increased in numbers and wealtli. Tlie thiesl of beef is failed here and vast qiianlilics of butter anil cheese produced, and from the appearance of their buildings aud farms wc must judge the people arc very industrious. " LOCAL NEWS. 241 He closes a glowing dcscriptiou of the seat of IIou. Moses Gill, thus : — "Upon tlio whole, this scat of Judge [Gov.] (?) Gill, .all the agreeable cirenmstances respecting being attentively consiilercd, is not paiallolcd Ijy any in the New England States ; perhaps not by any on this side of the Delaware." President Dwight, in 1797, speaks of Princeton as a rich grazing township, and adds, "the houses of the inhabitants, and the appearance of their farms are sufficient indication of prosperity, and the people are distinguished fur industry-, sobriety and good morals." He also speaks of Gov. Gill's estate "as more splendid than any olhcr in the interior of the State." Neither the town nor the character (jf its people have degenerated in the fourscore years since these commendations were written. In the neatness, beauty and convenience of its dwellings, and in its agriculture the town has, like its neighbors, improved. It has impaired somewhat its natural beauties by the great and often wasteful clearing up of its grand old woodlands, an injury nature will repair, if the woodman's axe and fires can be even now stayed. Being a mountain region, easily accessible, with a clear, elastic, bracing air, always healthy and invigorating, with a landscape attractive and charming; it has become of late years very largely the resort of summer visitors. Large hotels and boarding-houses have been built for their accommodation which, during the warm months, are tilled with numbers, increasing each year, seeking health and pleasure on these delightful hills. A carriage road has recently been constructed to the top of Wachusett, and a hotel erected there large enough to accommodate a goodly number of guests, as well as the tran- sient visitors which by thousands annually come to it. From this house is obtained perhaps the fiuest view in the State, extending from its northern to its southern limits, and from Connecticut River to Boston Bay. By a valuation in 1771 Princeton had ninety-one dwellings; 1S3J acres of tillage; and 1,083 of pasture land. In 1790 its dwellings were 144. This valuation of 1771 reveals the signilicant fact, that upon these mountain heights, since so often vocal with the shouts of freedom, there was then one slave. In 1800 the number of dwelling-houses were but four more than in 1790, while in the seventy-five years since they have only increased to 2G1, or at the rate of one and a half a year. The population 177G, 701; 1790, 1,016; 1800, 1,021; 1810, l,0fi2; 1820, 1,261,1830,1,340; 1840,1,347; 1850,1,318; 1860,1,201; 1870,1,279; 1875, 1,063. It has increased but 47 in 85 years. The number of acres of land taxed in 1875, was 22,040, of which 15,840 ■was included in 185 farms, and 3,633 were under cultivation ; 9,640 acres are returned as unimproved ; and 2,098 as woodland. The products of the town are almost exclusively agricultural, and find, especially since it has become so popular a summer resort, their market within its limits. 242 TOWN OF PRINCETOX. Through its whole history the people of Princeton have synipathizcti, and kept fully abreast of the prevailing sentiment of the country. In matters ecclesiastical they have had their divisions and controversies, sometimes the result of pervading changes in the community ; sometimes special to themselves, but they have never failed in an earnest and eflicient support of the institutions of the gospel, from the day when united they settled jNIr. Fuller, to the present, when they arc divided iu their religiou^i sympathies between the Puritan faith, and that of the great church Wesley founded, Whitefield honored, and good men everywhere resided and love. In all the great struggles which have marked, and so largely made our coun- try's history, they have been intelligent, early and active participants. They fought the preparatory battles of freedom with their king against the French, and its ultimate battles with the French against their king. They were constant and discriminating supporters of all the measures of the Revolution, from its first dawn to its glorious consummation. Twice at least their action was of character and importance enough to secure honoralile mention by the latest and ablest of the historians of the United States. Among them at this time, as a leading and patriotic spirit, was the Hon. Moses Gill, afterwards lieutenant and acting governor of the State, and who is some where called by Samuel Adams, "The Duke of Princeton." They voted for our State Constitution, but with an adherence to its State rights assertion, too ardent to leave their judgment quite clear, they voted against the adoption of the Constitution of the United States. Since it was adopted Ihey have ever sustained it, and when its hour of danger came, in the recent Reljellion, cheerfully and with alacrity they rallied to its defence, assum- ing their every responsibility and meeting every duty. Their first action was April 29, 1861, when $3,000 was appropriated to be used for the enlistment and drilling of any recruits and for the benefit of their families. " Princeton furnished one hundred and twenty men for the war, which was a surplus of nine over and above ail demands," one-tenlh of i(s population, and more then one-third of its voters and jiolls. It expended tor war purposes exclusive of State aid, $14,450.52, and in State aid $4,7(;0 l.'i. We have no space for the roll of its patriots, dead or living. It contributed its full siiaro of sacrifice, sorrow and suffering to the desolations of war, and demands of country. Brief is our sketch of this little mountain town. Its history is not eventful. Its place upon the map of even a comity is not large : but as its people look upon its free hills and vallej's robed in their resplendent autumn beauties; upon its farms, from which the teeming harvests are being gathered and garnered ; its homes of comfort and plenty ; contentment and love ; its churches for the service of God ; its schools for the education of men ; upon their own independent, prosperous, moral and happy condition ; they at least may bend in grateful homage before the Great Giver of it all and say, " Surely the lines have f;dlen to us in pleasant places, and we have a goodly heritage." ORIGIN OF THE TOWN. 213 R O Y A L S T O N, BY GEORGE W. IIORR, LL. B. CHAPTER I. AUSPICIOUS ORIGIX PROPRIETORSHIPS INCORPORATION ESTABLISHMENT OF BOUNDARIES NATURAL FEATURES SCENERY INTERESTING MINERALS AND GEJIS ABSENCE OF INDIANS SPIRIT OF LIBERTY REVOLUTIONARY NOTES AVAR OF 1812 FIRST MEETING-HOUSE PASTORAL SUCCESSION INTER- EST IN SCHOOLS COLLEGIATE LISTS. RoYALSTON is .1 bcaiitiful specimen of a true New England town. Sitnalcd among grand and lovely sccneiy, tlic inhabitants seem to have become imbued with the ins[)iration which the Iteautifnl in Nature ever produces in the mind of man ; and all through the history of the town they have shown a sturdy patri- otism, a zeal for religion, and a desire for educational privileges. Not a town in this grand old Commonweallh of historic towns can boast of a better begin- ning or a more reputable heritage of name and blood. The proprietors and early settlers of Royalstou were men of character, whose influence can be traced throughout the whole structure of our nation, and they laid here, on these splendid old hills, the foundation of a town in which those sterling qualities of the glorious days of New England have come down ihrongli the generations to the present time. The territory comprised in the township of Royalstou passed from a public domain to private hands in two ways — by public sales and private grants. It was the last of the entire territory of Worcester County to be disposed of by grants and charters, and in this respect is the last and youngest of the towns of the county. Twenty-three hundred acres of its area were com|)rised in four grants, known as Picrpont's, Priest's, ILipgood's, and a grant to Bcnoni Moore, Joseph Pettey, and Robert Cooper, while 28,357 acres wore jinrchased at public sale by Samuel Watts, Thomas Hubbard, Isaac Freeman, Joseph Rich- ards, Isaac Royal, Caleb Dana, James Otis, Joseph Wilder, Jr., and John Chandler, Jr., the deed being given Dec. 27, 1752, and the price paid, £1,348. At a later date, others famous in the annals of New England and national his- tory became proprietors of Royalston soil. Among these were John Hancock, 244 TOWN OF ROYALSTON. the first Governor of Massachusetts and first signer of the Declaration of Inde- pendence, James Bowdoin, the second Governor of the State, while James Otis, one of the original purchasers, was tiic eloquent orator of the Revolution, whose clarion notes aroused his countrymen to action. Lady Temple, widow of Sir John Temple, baronet, also once owned eight hundred acres of lloyalston land. The proprietors, at their first meeting, held at the "Bunch of Grapes" tavern in Boston, voted that the land be called lioyal-shire, "whereupon the lion. Isaac Ro\'al generously gave his word to give the partners twenty-five pounds sterling towards building a Mecting-IIousc in said town." From the ihnc of purchase until 1787, a period of thirty-four years, the jiroprietors held meet- ings. It was at their first meeting that they ordered the land to be laid off into sixty lots for settlers, and three others for a minister, for the support of worship and for a school. In 17G5 this was further increased by setting apart 231 acres for the first minister, 424 acres for the ministry, and 420 acres for the school. Thus did the first proprietors of RiA'alston recognize and lil)erally provide for the cause of religion and education, making it the foundation upon which was to be reared the superstructure of their town. The'Frcnch and Indian War, which for seven years raged fiercely throughout New England, drew heavily from the yoimg men of Massachusetts, and the settlement of the grant was dcla3'ed, so that it was in 17(52 before an active settlement of the town was commenced. In June of that year six families moved into the settlement; and from that time the increase was very rapid, there being about forty families at the close of 17(w. On Feliruary 10, 17()5, the town was incorporated with the name of Royalston, in honor of Hon. Isaac Royal, one of the proprietors. The fii-st town meeting was held Way 7, of that year, when the following town officers were elected: Clerk, John Fry; Treasure!", Peter Woodbury; Selectmen, John Fry, Timothy Richardson, and Benjamin Woodbury. The original tcrritorj', which contained thirty thousand six hundred and fifty-seven acres, has been subjected to several changes since. Aljout two thousand acres were set off to Winchcndon in 1780; several thousand acres were taken for Orange, in 1783, when that town was incorporated; three or four hundred acres were added from Athol and Gerry in 17i'9; a portion of Athol was an- nexed in 1803 ; and in 1837 not far from two hundred acres were taken from Pliillipston'and joined to Ro^'alston, making at the present time about twent\- six thousand eight hundred and eighty-two acres. The boundaiics are: New Hampshire on the north, Winchcndon on the cast, Templeton, Phillipston, and Athol on the south, and Orange and Warwick on the west. It is, l)y the Hoosac Tunnel line of railroad, seventj-seven miles north-west of Boston. The scenery of the town is beautiful ; high and verdure-covered hills overlook the surrounding country, intersected with valleys through which flow the waters of TuUy and Miller's rivers, the Lawrence and Priest's. On one of these hills SPLENDID SCENERY. 245 the founders of Rnyalston located their village, overlooked hy the Grand Mouadnock. Not only do the hill-tops present scenes of beauty, hut the streams in the valleys below contain gorges and waterfall;*, with the i^iandest and wildest of natural scenery. Three of these are described liy Prof. Hitchcock in his "Geology of Massachusetts." The most impor- t.int of these is situated in the extreme norlh-west part of the town, and i- commonly known as Forbes' Falls, although sometimes called by the name ct the Royal Cascade, suggested by Prof. Hitchcock. Hero a stream de- scends lifty feet at a single leap into a deep gorge, which has the appearance (if being excavated by erosion. The scene presented is one of wildncss and grandeur, rough and jagged rocks rising on every side fifty or sixty feet iu liright. Mr. Hitchcock pronounces this as one of the tinest in the State. Another is situated about two miles from Royalston Centre on the Athol road, and is known as Doanc's Falls ; this has been called the Republican Cascade. The stream descends by several successive leaps about two hundred feet be- tween high walls of gneiss and granite to the valley below. The third is where a small pond near the meeting-house empties itself into a deep vallc3\ The geo- logical structure is calcareous gneiss, in which occur specimens of allanite, ilme- iiitc, mica, and hornblende slate. Large crystals of feldspar are found. A large number of specimens iu the State collection are from this locality. Of that beautifid mineral gem, the beryl, Royalston furnishes the finest and most numerous specimens yet discovered in the United States. Prof. Hitchcock describes it as follows : "The recent discovery of a rich locality of this mineral in South Royalston enables mc to place it as the first and most abundant of all the gems of Massachusetts. The specimens in the State Collection exhibit it in its natural state, as well as cut and jjolishcd i)y the lapidary. When set in gold, it is often much richer in appearance than the common beryl that goes by the name of aqua-marine. Its color often api)roachcs nearer to the genuine emerald, though some specimens have the peculiar blue color of aqua-marine. Sometimes, though rarely, the color is a yellowish-green, very much like the chrysolite. Ilundieds of specimens have already l>ecn obtained fiom this spot, and the prospect is that a vast many more may be obtained. They occur in a vein of coarse granite, ten or twelve feet wide, traversing gneiss ; and the purest beryls are in the c]uartz. It, however, ought to be remarked, that onlj' a few of the specimens arc free enough from fissures to be advantageously cut. Yet, considering the large number of fine cabinet specimens that have been, and probably can be, obtained there, I apprehend that no locality of beryl hith- erto discovered in this country can compare with this. My attention was first directed to it liy Alden Spooncr, Esq., of Alhol, who generously furnishcil mo with several fine specimens." Since the time mentioned l)y Mr. Hitchcock largo numbers have been taken from this place. Of the occupants of these hills and valleys prior to the advent of the whito man, little is known. E.\-Gov. Bullock says in his Centennial address, "a pre- 24G TOWN OF ROYALSTON. ciiict that bears no vestiges of the aborigines, and is in this respect so unlike the more southerly towns, which had half a century of life crowded with Indian traditions, that I cannot find that those original lords over lighted a pipe or a fire here." But if it was wanting in the dusky sons of the forest, it was not without its share of the wild animals : for bears and wolves crossed tlio paths of the eaily settlers by day, and bore away their domestic animals from the folds at night ; while many are the anecdotes related of stirring adventures with these denizL-ns of the forest, and the howling of the wolves, with the nightly concerts of wild-cats and panthers around the cabins and camptires of the early settlers made vocal the watches of the night. When the cvcntfgl years of the Revolution drew near, it found the spirit of liberty brightly burning among the sturdy yeomanry of Royalston ; and although with a population of less than seven hundred and a large proportion of the territory covered with the original forests, j'ct it did not spare money or men, but was i-eady to respond to every call. As early as 1773, the citizens of Royalston put themselves in correspondence with the Central Committee in Boston, and to this they also added a Committee-'of Safety in 1776. Henry Bond was sent as delegate to the First Provincial Congress in 1774, and Nathan Green to the Second in 1775. The doings of the Continental Congress at Philadelphia were frequently read and approved in open meeting here. In 1778 ninety pounds was raised for bounties, and the selectmen were instructed to collect clothing and ammunition for the soldiers. In 1779 no family of its own soldiers was found to be needy, anJ so forty-two pounds was Voted to each of its citizens engaged in the service two 3ears before, while in 1781 wo find them raising more than a thousand pounds in Spanish milled d illars for the hir'ng of soldiers, and voting in addition, to each man in the field at the end of thiee j'ears, " ten cows — heifers, three years old, with calf, or with calves by their side." The list of Revolutionar}' soldiers, as fir as known, embraces forty-three names, in addition to which a large company of Ro3'alston men marched to repel the Northern Army of Burgo^'ue in 1777. The following are the names of the Revolutionary soldiers: — Nathan Green, Col. Ebenezer Newel, Major John Norton, Capt. Jonathan Sibley, Capt. Enoch Whitmore, Lieut. Edward Holman, Lieut. Nathan Wheeler, Lieut. Jonas Allen, Lieut. James Work, Lieut. Micah French, David Copeland, Ammi Falkner, John Davis, Jr., Squier Davis, Sylvester Davis, John Ellis, Nathan Bliss, Eliphalet Richardson, Abijah Richardson, David Bullock, Silas Cutting, Bczaleal Barton, Samuel Barton, Moses Walker, Joel Stockwell, Ebenezer Burbank, Benjamin Clark, Perham, Josiah Waite, Nathan B. Newton, Joseph Emerson, Samuel W. Bowker, Samuel Lewis, Jonathan Wellington, Rogers Chase, Benjamin Leathe Isaac Nichols, William Clement, 2d, Nathaniel Jacobs, Benajah Woodbury, David Cook, William Clement, Jonathan Gale, Timoth}' Armstrong. Shays' Rebellion received but little if any support from the farmers of Royalston. FIRST CHURCH. 247 Although strongly Feileral in politics and strongly opposed to the national policy which brought on the Second War with Great Britain in 1812, yet, when tlie war came, the citizens of Royalston were ready to bear their part in the responsibilities, and wc iind them, whib the naval forces of England were threatening our seacoast, sending a large company of grenadiers to Boston for (•(last defence, where they served for thirty-five days. In 17G4, only two years after the first families moved into town, the first inoeting-houso was built, and for three years after the incorporation of the town Mvcral clergymen were employed who were hired for a few Sabbaths at a time. ()it. 13, 17GG, the first church was organized, consisting of sixteen persons, and in April, 17GS, the town extended a call to the Rev. Joseph Lee, who accepted, and was ordained Oct. 19, 17G8, as the first minister of the town, a position which he hold for half a century. He was offered for his settlement four hundreil pounds, " old tenor," in addition to the two hundred and thirly- one acres grunted by the proprietors for the first settled minister, and in lawful money a salary of £4G I'ds. Ad. per annum for the first three years ; £53 G.s. Sd. for the next three years ; and £00 each year thereafter, and thirty cords of wood, to be drawn annually from his own land to his door. Mr. Leo was burn in Concord, May 23, 1742, and graduated at Harvard College in 17()"). He preached to the people of Royalston for fifty years, his half-century sermon being his last. Mr. Lee was succeeded by Rev. Ebenezer Perkins, who was ordained Feb. 17, 1810. Mr. Perkins was born in Tojjsfield, July 4, 1794, and graduated at Dartmouth College. He continued as pastor for twenty-eight years, when he was dismissed, but continued to reside in town until his death, Nov. 28, 1861, loved and respected by all. The third minister was Rev. Norman Hazeu, a graduate of Dartmouth College. He was settled in June, 1847 ; his ministry, which was short, terminated at his death, in 1852. He was followed by Rev. Ebenezer Bullard, who was installed Sei)t. 2, 1852, and dismissed Nov. 9, 18G8. Thus, for the first century of its existence, the church had only four pastors. And it is a remarkable fact that the church was so fortunate as to secure the services of those whose relations with tlieir people were so harmonious through such long pastorates, and to the influences of whom may be largely attril)uted that freedom from civil and ecclesiastical controversies which has always characterized the town. The pastors since then have been Rev. John P. Cusbman, installed Nov. 30, 1870, dismissed Dec. 4, 1872 ; and Rev. Wilbur Johnson, the present pastor, who was installed May 16, 1874. The first church, erected in 17G4, was removed in 1797 to make room for a more commodious structure, which was destroyed l)y (ire in 1851, when the present church edifice was erected. The mcmbcrshii) of the church is about one hundred and fifty at the present time. The old parsonage, which was the residence of Rev. Mr. Lee, was moved away five years ago, and a fine house has been erected upon the site. The 248 TOWN OF ROYALSTON. old house and one acre of land were purchased for one thousand dollars by Miss Candace Bullock, and presented to the societ}'. She also gave six hun- dred dollars towards the now building. The cost of the new parsonage was five thousand five hundred dollars. Among those who contributed largely for its erection were Mr. and Jlrs. Ripley, Mrs. D. P. Clark, Mr. Joseph Esta- brook, and j\Ir. Chauncy Chase. It is overshadowed by a magnificent old elm, set out nearly eighty j'ears ago by the Rev. Joseph Lee. The first settlors included about ten families of Baptists, forming nearly one- fourth of the population. They organized a church in 17GS, and built a house of worship several years later on the ivest bank of Tully. Their first teacher was Mr. Elisha Rich, who was never ordained. He was succeeded by Rev. AVhitman Jacobs, the first minister, in 1770, who continued as their pastor for upwards of eighteen j-ears. Since then they have been served I)y various pas- tors; but during the intervals between the pastorates they have rarely, if ever, "ivcn up religious service. About 1800, their old meeting-house was loft for a larger one erected near the line between Royalston and Warwick, which was dedicated in 1805. The ministers of those days must have been pos-^essed of powerful lungs, if report is true, for it is said that, on the raising of the meeting- honse, the prayer of Elder Hodge was heard at the distance of half a mile. This building was removed about the year 1817, nearly a mile east, to a place called "The City," and it is now used by the society. The Methodists first held preaching in South Royalston about the year 1827, and a church was organized in 1842, with Rev. Pliny Wood as the first preacher. They built a house of worship in 1847, at a cost of two thousand five hundred and fifty dollars, and most of the time since have had preaching. A second Congregational church was organized at South Royalston, Feb. 22, 1837, and a" house of worship was built the same year, at a cost of six thousand four hundred and eighty-one dollars. The first pastor of this church was Rev. Samuel II. Peckham, installed Dec. 13, 1838. Other ministers have been Rev. Ji>hn II. M. Leland, ordained in 1847 ; Rev. George Goodyear, installed in 1849; Rev. Edwin Seabury, installed in 18G7. Rev. Walter Rice preached several years. The pulpit is now su[)plied by Rov. C. L. Tomblin. The soci- ety was bequeathed two thousand five huudred dollars by the late Rufiis Bul- lock, to be held as a fund, the income of which is to be approjiriatcd for the preaching of the gospel in said society. A Union Societ}', composed of Baptists and Universalists, was organized in 1839, and a meeting-house was built in the Centre, the two denominations alternately controlling the services. The property was at length bought by the Baptists, and for some years a church quite large in numbers was kept up. In 18G3 the house was sold and moved away. Royalston was not behind other Massachusetts towns in her care of edu- cation. At the first beginning of the town the school was remembered, and, bcfmo the purchasers of the territory drew lots for themselves, five hundred EDUCATIONAL NOTES. 249 :uk1 twenty acres were set apart for school land ; and the Hon. Isaac Royal, by liis will, also gave the town two hundred acres more for school purposes. In 17G9, only one year after the first minister was settled, and but seven 3'ears after the permanent settlement of the town, three pounds was appropriated for schooling. The first schoolmaster of which we have any record was Simeon Chauibcrlain, who was paid eighteen shillings for two weeks' schooling in 1709. At first, th > schools were kept in dwellings and barns. The first school-house was built about Ihe 3-ear 1777, when liberty was granted to a ntuiiber of inhab- itaiits near the Centre to build a school-house near the meeting-house. In 1781 , the town was divided into six districts. In 1790 the first sciiool committee was chosen. The town was rodistrictcd in 1795, with nine districts. In 1797 it was voted to build school-houses in the several school districts ; and May 7, 1798, fifteen hundred dollars was appropriated for that object. Besides the amount raised annually by the town for the schools, there is the "Old School Fund," accruing from the sale of the school lands, and the "Bullock Fund," of five thousand dollars, bequeathed to the town by the Hon. Rufus Bullock for the benefit and use of the common schools of the town. There is no reg- ular high school. The schools of South Royalston are partially graded, and consist of a Primary Department and a Grammar School. The school com- mittee for the year 1879-80 consists of A. D. Raymond, R. R. Safibrd, Mrs. M. A. C. Adams, B. H. Brown, Miss Emma L. Pierce, A. M. White, and Chas. A. Iliggins. The list of college gradu.ates who have attained distinction .as ministers of the gospel, as teachers, and in the various professions, is indeed remarkable for a town with so small a population. Among this ninnber, natives and others, who have resided in Royalston, are the tbllowing: Sidney Ilolmtm, class of 1830 (Williams), was born at Rr)yalstou in the year 1800. He studied theology at Auburn, N. Y., and has been settled as pastor of churches at Saugus, Williugton (Conn.), Wel)ster and Mill- bury, and acting pastor at Goshen and Windsor. He was married in 1833 to Myra Fisher of Templeton, by whom he had five children, of whom the eldest, Thomas, died in the service of his country iu 18G2. Stephen Ilolman, native-born, class of 1839 (Williams), aud Rev. Sylvester Davis, native-born, was also a graduate of college. Rev. Amory Gale, born in Royalston, graduated at Brown University, class of 18-13. Rev. Ebcnezcr Culler, native, graduated at University of Vermont, class of 1845. Franklin Jones, class of 1829 (Amherst); Alexander Hamilton Bullock, 183G; Rev. J(^sso K. Bragg, 1838; Ariel Eben, Parish Perkins, 1840; Leonard Lorenzo Leathe, 1843 ; Rev. Henry Cmnmings, 1847 ; Henry Jlarlyn Harrington, 18G0 ; Charles Goddard Goodell Paine, 18G1 ; and Rev. Albert IJryant, 18(J2 — all graduated at Amherst College and were I)orn iu R{)3'alston. Prof. Nelson Wheeler, class of 1830 (Yale) ; Caleb Butfum Metcalf, 1842; Gecn-ge Brigham Newton, 1S13 ; and Samuel Chester Gale, 1854, — wei-e native-born aud gradu- ated at Yale College. George Newton, class of 1808 (Dartmouth College) , was VOL. II— M. 250 TOWN OF ROYALSTOX. born in Royalston, Jan. IG, 1785, son of Nathan Brigham and Mary (Stewart) Newton ; died, Jnne G, 1817, aged 32, lawyer ; began practice at Salem, removed to Royalston in 1816. Rev. Ebenezer Perkins, class of 1814 (D. C.) ; born at Topsficld July 4, 1794 ; died at Royalston, Nov. 28, 1861, aged 67 ; stndied divinity with Rev. Dr. Elisha Parish of Byfield, and at Audover Theological Seminary ; ordained pastor of Congregational Church at Royalston, Feb. 17, 1819, and dismissed May 19, 181G, but remained in the town. Ilis only publication was a dedicatory sermon. Married Amelia, daughter of Rev. Ariel Parish (D. C, 1788), at Manchester, -lune 8, 1819. Benjamin Connut Perkins (D. C, 1848), was his son. Rev. Norman Ilazen, class of 1840 (D. C), born at Hartford, Vt., Sept. 7, 1814, died at Royalston, Feb. 13, 1852, aged 37, graduated from Andovcr Theological Seminary, 1844; ordained pastor of Congregational Church at Royalston, March 24, 1847, and died while in his official position. Hosca Davis, class of 1842 (D. C), born at Royals- ton, June 21, 1817; son of Asa and Deborah (Mason) Davis; studied medi- cine, and practiced near Indianripolis, Ind. ; married (I) Maria Cynthia Murks of Greenbush, 111. ; (2) Abhy Stevens of Petersham. Benjamin Conant Per- kins, class of 1848 (D. C.) ; born at Royalston, Jan. 23, 1827 ; read law at Harvard University Law School, and with Hon. Asahel Huntington of Salem, and Rufus Choate (D. C, 1819) of Boston; began practice at Danvers. Lcander Smith graduated from the medical department of Dartmouth in 1834. Rev. Samuel Bucheller, class of 1731, Harvard University; born at Reading ; resided at Haverhill ; died at Royalston, April, 1790, aged 90 years ; ordained minister. Rev. Joseph Lee, class of 17G5 (II. U.) ; bcrn May 23, 1742, at Concord; lived in Royalston; died in Royalston, Feb. IG, 1819, aged 77; ordained minister; received degrees of A. B. and A. M. at both Harvard and Yale. Rev, Samuel Barrett, A.M., S.T.D. (1847), class of 1818 (H. U.) ; born at Royalston, Aug. 16, 1795 ; lived, and ordained minister at Boston (Twelfth Congregational Churcli), Feb. 9, 1825; died at Roxbury, June 24, 1866, aged 70; son of Benjamin and Betsey (Gcrrish) Barrett; Sept. 11, 1832, married Mary Susan Greenwood. Benjamin Shaltuck Howe Brown, class of 1850 (H. U.) ; born at Royalston, Sept. 6, 1828; died at South Boylston, March 5, 1851 ; sou of Artemas Howe and Catharine (Howe) Brown. Charles Augustus Gregory, class of 1855 (II. U.) ; born at Ro3-al- ston, Sept. 7, 1833 ; son of Franklin and Martha Porter (Edwards) Gregory ; Dec. 4, 1861, married Julia A. Booth of New York. Arthur Clarence Brown, class of 1879 (II. U.), born in Royalston, May 11, 1857; son of Elisha F. and Angcline A. (French) Brt)wn ; lives in Athol ; intends to read law. The author is indebted to " Sketches of the Alumni of Dartmouth College, by Rev. George T. Chapman, D.D.,"aud "Sibley's MSS., by John Langdon Sibley," former librarian of Harvard University, for most facts and statistics given above of graduates of Dartmouth College and Harvard Universit}'. ROYALSTON IN THE REBELLION. 251 CHAPTER IL MOVKMENTS IN THE REBELLION MEMORIAL TABLETS WORTHIES OF THE TOWN AGRICULTURE MANUFACTURES PROMINENT BUSINESS MEN. When Rebellion lifted its band against tbe flag and striiek its beavy blows for the dissolution of the Union, tbe people of Royalston, true to tbe prineiples of constitutional liberty and union, stood nobly !)y tbe government, and, altbougb more largely exhausted of its young men than many other sections of tbe State, yet the calls of the country were promptly met, and the record of the sons of Royalston on tbe many fields of l)altlc, is one worthy of the town and State which they represented, and which in the pages of history will be proudly referred to by every citizen of the town. The first action taken by the town was at a town meeting, held April 30, 18G1, when, on motion of Capt. John Whitraore, it was voted to raise tbe sum of $1,500 for fitting out volunteer soldiers of this town. Also, "voted to piiv each volunteer soldier from the town of Royalston, necessary for said town to furnish to form a compan}' with the town of Atbol, tbe sum of ten dollars per month while they arc in service, and it is to be paid out of tbe town treasury, which is to be over and a]).)vc what they draw from tbe Government." A committee of three, consisting of Dr. Isaac P. "Willis, L. "W. Partridge, and Jarvis Davis, Esq., were appointed to canvass the town for soldiers to enlist into the company to be formed by tbe towns of Royalston and Atbol. On motion of Baruet Bullock, Esq., it was "voted that a committee of three persons be chosen by the town, for the purpose of fitting out such soldiers as shall enlist and be called for service from the town of Royalston, by tbe State or United States, and to draw on the treasury for the expense of a suitable fit-out for each soldier, and that said committee shall take the charge of the State arms, and to be vouchers for the return of said arms, unless taken by the Rebels." Col. George Whitney, Joseph Raymond and L. W. Partridge were chosen as that committee. One hundred and ten men enlisted from this town. Of these, eighteen served in the 21st Regiment, twenty-six in tbe 25tb, twentj'-fivc in the ;3(jth, twenty- six in the 53d, and the remainder in various regiments. Among tbe natives of Royalston who have served in tbe armj'^ from other States are Maj.-Gcu. Lysander Cutler of Wisconsin, Lieut.-Col. Charles Cummings of Vermont, Cai)t. Andrew J. Richardson of Wisconsin, Capt. Ilein-y J. Howe of Pennsylvania, and Lieut. Silas Ileywood of New Hamp- shire. Through the generosity of Mr. Joseph Raymond, a wealthy citizen of Royalston, four memorial tablets of white marble, containing tbe names of the soldiers from this town who died in the service, have been placed in the Town Hall. These tablets arc shield-shaped and contain the following inscriptions : 252 TOWN OF ROYALSTON. "25Tn Eegt. Mass. Vols., " Co. I. " Died of Wounds. "C. W. Xorcross, Koanokc Island. N. C, Feb. 21st, 1862, Aged 22 jrs. Gpo. Brown, AVhitchall, N. C, Dec. IGth, 18G2, Aged 41 yrs. Hosea B. Boswortb, Cold Harbor, Ya., July lOlli, 18G4, Aged 32 yrs." " Died of Disease. " Marcus Walker, rortsmoutli, N. C, Jan. 29th, 18G3, aged 22 j-ears." " Killed in Action. "Ilcnry E. Knight, Spottsylvauia, Ya., May 12th, 18G4, aged 20 years." " Died in Prison. "John S. Chase, Andersonville, Ga., Aug. lllii, 1SG4, aged 19 j'cars. Joel S. Bosworlh, Charleston, S. C, .Se|)t. 24th, 18G4, aged 37 years." " SGtq Regt. Mass Vols., " Co. D. " Died of Disease. "A. F. Tierce, Hartford, Ya., Nov. l9Ui, 1SG2. aged 2G years. Eugene C. King, Nicholsonvillo, Ky., Aug. 23d, 1SC3, aged 18 years. Stephen P. White, Annapolis. Md., May 3d, 18G4, aged 35 years." '• Died of Wounds. " Sanford Giles, Spottsylvauia, Ya., Slay r2th, 18G1, aged 37 years. Geo. L. Cha<«e, Wilderness. Ya., June 8lh. ISGl, aged 2j years. Corporal R. N. White, Cold Harbor, Ya., June 2.jth, 18G4, aged 20 years." " Killed in Action. " Sam'l B. Hale, Spottsylvania, Va., May 12lh, 18G4, aged 31 years. George A. Raymond, Cold Harbor. Ya., June 2d, 1SG4, aged 22 3-cars. Jdlin Shepardson, Petersliurg, Ya., June ITtli, 18G4, aged 20 years. Heur^v Russell, Petersburg, Va., Aug. 8th, 18G4, aged 17 years." " 53d Regt. Mass. Vol. Militia, " Co. E. " Died of Disease. " Geo. L. Hancock, Carrolton, La., March 8th, 18G3, aged 21 years. Corp. Geo. W. Knights, New Orleans, La., Apr. 10th, 18G3, aged 23 j-ears. Uri C. Day, Baton R.):i:e, La., Apr. 14, 18G3, aged 19 years. Chas. E. Tonney, New Orleans, La., Apr. 2Gth, 18G3, aged 17 years. Henrj- C. Morse, New Orleans, La., April 27th, 18C3, aged 20 3-ears. John 5L Wood, Baton Rouge, La., 5Iay 15th, 18G3, aged 19 years. Jos. W. Bosworth, Royalston, Mass., July 24th, 18G3, aged 19 years." "Co. F. " Quincy A. Shepardson, Baton Rouge, La., Julv 27th, 1SG3, aged 37 3-car3." ROLL OF HONOR. 253 " Miscellaneous Regiments. " Died of Disease. " Milton C. Handy, Co. I, 4th Vt. Reg't, Feb. ITtli, 1802, aged 18 years. Corp. W. H. Spi-rtgue, Co. B. 27111 Mass., May lOtli, 18G2, aged 40 years. Jas. Townsend, Co. A, 32d Reg't, Aug. 2d, 18G2, aged 25 years. Jefferson Richardson, Co. F, IGth N. II., Jan. 24lh, 18G3, aged 3G years." " Died of Wounds. " Edwin O. Vose, Co. F, 2d Mass., June 2Jth, 18G2, aged 19 years." " Killed in Action. " Geo. Miles, Co. A, 2d N. II., June 15, 18G2. aged 20 years. Geo. E. Fry, Co. E, 5th N. II., May 2d, 18G3, aged 27 years. W. D. Goddard, Co. F, 57lh Mass., Aug. 10th, 18G4, aged 39 years." The first Representative to the General Court, from this town, was chosen May 27th, 177G, and at the last town meeting warned in his majesty's name. The following have served as representatives from Royalston : — Timothy Richardson, 1776 ; John Fry, 1780, '83, '84, '85, '87 ; Peter AVoodi)uiy, 1788, '89 ; Isaac Gregory, 1 704, '95, 1801, '03, '00, "07, 'OS ; Jonathan Sibley, 178G ; Oliver Work, 1792; Phillip Sweotzer, 1798; John Norton, 1800, '13, '14; Joseph Estahrook, 1809, '10, '11, '12, '15, 'IG, 'J7, '25 ; Rufiid Bullock, 1820, '21, '27, '28, '29; Squicr Davis, 1823; Stephen Bachcllcr, Jr., 182G, '30; Franklin Gregory, 1831, '33; Benjamin Brown, 1832, '45; Asahcl Davis, 1834; Arha slierwin, 1835, '37, '39; Russell Morse, 1835, '3G, '39; Benoni Peck, 1836, '37; Salmon Goddard, 1838; Benjamin Fry, 1838, '40, '54; Cyrus Davis, 1840; Iliram W. Alhec, 1843, '40, '52, '53 ; Burnet Bullock, 1844; Silas Kenuey, 1848; Elmer Newton, 1849; Joseph Raymond, 1850, '51; Tarrant Cutler, 1855; Jarvis Davis, 1856; Joseph Estahrook, 1857 ; George Whitney, 1859 ; Elisha F. Brown, 1861 ; Ebenczer W. Bullard, 1804 ; William W. Clement, 1800 ; Jeremiah A. Rich, 1808, '74 ; Benjamin IL Brown, 1870; Joseph Walker, 1877. Senators: Joseph Estahrook, 1828 ; Rufus Bul- lock, 1831-32; George AVhitncy, 18G3-G4. Constitutional Convention, 1779, '80 : Sylvanns Hemenway, delegate, and John Fry, his substitute. Rufus Bullock, delegate to Constitutional Conventions of 1820 and 1853 ; John Fry, delegate at the ratification of the Constitution of the United States, 1788. The Town Clerks of Royalstou, from its incorporation to the present time, are as follows: — .John Fry, from 1705 to 1782, with t!ic exception of 1773; Stephen Baihcller, 1773; Peter Woodbury, 1782 to 1790, and for 1791 and 1794; John Bachcller, 1790, "92, and "93; Daniel Woodbury, 1795, 'dG; Isaac Gregory, 1797, '98, '99, 1800, 180G ; Samuel Goddard, Jr., 1801, 1802; Joseph Estahrook, 1803, '04, '05, 'OS, '09, '10; Stephen Bachcllcr, Jr., 1807; John Norton, 1811, '14, '15, '10, '17; Rufus Bullock, 1812, '13; Thomas J. Lee. 1818, '21, '22, '23, '24; Fr.ankliu Gregory, 1819, '20, and from 1825 to 1837; Barnet Bullock, 1837 to 1847; George F. Miller, 1847, '48, '49, '51, 254 TOWN OF ROY ALSTON. 'G7, '68, '69, '70 ; Joseph R:iymoml, 1850, '53 ; Leandcr W. Warren, 1852 ; R. II. Bullock, 54; Charles II. Newton, 1855 to 1867; Joseph T. Nichols, 1871, '72, '73 ; Joseph Walker, 1874, '75, '7G ; Frank W. Adams, 1877, '78, '79. In 1768, the same year that the first minister was settled. Dr. Stephen Bacheller established himself in town as the first physician, where for half a century he practiced his profession. He was succeeded by his son, Stephen Bacheller, Jr., the father and son practicing in town for eighty 3-ears. Dr. Stephen Bacheller, Jr., ranked among the most eminent physicians of tlie State, having probably a more extensive consultation business th;in any other physician in the county. He is said to have ridden more miles than any other doctor in AVorcester County; was a member of the Massachusetts Medical Society, for two years its vice-president, and for many 3'ears one of its coun- sellors, and was a delegate from the Society to the American JMcdical Associa- tion at Baltimore. Nearly forty medical students were under his instruction. Other physicians of first-class reputation were Dr. Isaac P. Willis and Dr. Thomas Richardson. It is a singular fact that the central portion of the town started on its second century not only with its fourth minister, l)ut also its fourth physician. Frank W. Adams, M. D., at the Centre and Henry O. Adams, M. D., at South Royalstou, now look after the health of the people. Among the old-time worthies of the town may be mentioned Joseph Esta- brook, Esq., who as merchant, first postmaster, first senator, and a gentleman of the old school, occupied a prominent position among his fellow-citizens. Slaj. Gen. Franklin Gregory, who excelled in military alVairs, was chosen to preside at one of the receptions in honor of Lafayette, and was one of the most enterprising merchants the town ever had ; and Jonathan Pierce, who for nearly a quarter of a ccntui'y brought the mail once a week, as he drove the post between Worcester and Kecne through Royalston. His son, Horace Pierce, Esq., was at one time largely engaged in the manufacture of pails in the north part of the town. As an agricultural town Royalston bears a good reputation, and the large, substantial, and well-kept farm-houses and barns testify that the soil of these hills amply repaj-s the industrious farmer for his labors. Like so many of the hill towns of Massachusetts, the sons and daughters of Royalston have been leaving the homes of their fathers, and seeking amid more exciting scenes a name and fortune. Yet the drain from this town has not been so large as from many of our towns, as the census of the various dates will show : Population, 1776, 617 ; 1790, 1,130 ; 1800, 1,243 ; 1810, 1,415 ; 1820, 1,424 ; 1830, 1,493 ; 1840, 1,667 ; 1850, 1,546 ; 1855, 1,469 ; 1860, 1,486 ; 1865, 1,441 ; 1870, 1,354 ; 1875, 1,260. The census report of 1875 gives the following statistics of the agriculture of the town. Number of farms, 172, valued at $506,000 ; domes- tic animals valued at $57,968. The products of agriculture amounted to $94,792. There were 2,512 tons of hay produced. The number of horses was 224, cows 410, and sheep 176. I I CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION. 255 A very creditable cattle-show, surpassing in many respects some of the county fairs, was held by the farmers of the town the present season. Tlie hundredth anniversary of the incorporation of the town was celebrated Aug. 23, 1865, when the address was delivered by Royulston's honored ST)n, Hon. Alexander H. Bullock. The poet of the day was Alliert Br^-ant, A. M. ; and Mrs. George Woodbury contributed an original hymn for the occasion. A fine town house was built in 1SG7, at a cost of about $9,000. It contains a large hall, a pui)lic librar\-, and i-ooms for town ofBcers. The hall is adorned by three fine portraits, of Hon. Rufiis Bullock, cx-Gov. A. II. Bullock, and Rev. Ebenczer Perkins, second pastor of the Congregational Church. Danirl Parkhurst Clark came to Royalston as a clerk iu the store of Gon. Franklin Gregory, where he remained for ten or twelve j^ears. He afterwards went to New York, where he engaged in l)usiuess, and amassed a large fortune. After his death Mrs. Clark came to Royalston, the home of her childhood ; and about seven years ago she, in connection with I\Ir. Joseph Estabrook, built an ele- gant residence, where she now resides. Mrs. Clark is a generous contributor to the Congregational Church, and to ever}' worthy object connected with the welfare of the town. Royalston has the honor, not only of furnishing a Governor for her own State, but of supplying the neighboring State of Vermont with one ; Ihe Hon. Asahel Peck, Governor of Vermont from 1874 to 187G, being a native of the town. South Ro\'alston is a flourishing village on Miller's River in the south-cast part of the town, where most of the manufacturing establishments arc located. It has two churches, hotel, two stores, Mechanics' Ilall, and a depot on the Vermont and Jlassachusctts division of the Fitchburg Railroad. Among the manufacturers of Royalston, Salmon S. Farrar occupies a prominent place. Born in "Winchendon, he came, a poor boy, in 1832, to what was then called Royalston Factory Village. At first he worked by the day for J. M. Upham, then commenced the manufacture of shoe-pegs with Leon ard Wheeler. The business being ncAV and customers few, they soon disposed of it. In 183G, he built the shop now standing and engaged in the manufacture of "nest" or dry measures, children's rolling-hoops, bf)xcs, sleds, &c. As his business increased, he built additions to his shop, and also a saw-mill. Afler being closely confined to manufacturing business for more than foity years, ho retired from active business with a competency. He has contributed largely to the growth of the village of South Royalston, and has been an active mem- ber of the Orlhodox Society from its organization. For some years last jiast he has held important positions of trust ; has been officially connected with the Templeton Savings Bank from its incorporation ; is also a director of the Athol National Bank ; and has been collector of taxes for many years. Caleb W. Day has been actively engaged iu the manufacture of shoe-pegs at South Royalston for nearly twenty years. He succeeded Silas Jones, Jr., who 2.36 TOAVX OF ROYALSTON. had been a member of llic firm of Bemis (Otis Bemis) & Jones. Alioiit, twelve years ago lie eonimcnced the maiuifacture of bnish-bloeks and brush-handles, and now turns out a very extensive variety, ada|)ted to almost every kind of brush, and cni[)li)y.s about twelve hands. Mr. Day has alwa\s taken a deep interest in the pros|)eiily of the villairc, and has been an active promoter of the social welfare and iiitcllcctiial improvement of its citizens. lie has used his means and influence to establish and sustain lectures in tlio village. Edmund Stockwcll of South IJoyalston is also engaged in the manufacture of brush-blocks and brush-handles and croquet-sets. lie has been (juitc suc- cessful and does a safe and sure business. Dea. Maynard Partridge, an inllucntial citizen, has been cng.igcd for many yeais in the manufacture of chair-stuff at the old Ilolman Mill, about one mile uorth-east of the town house. Col. George Whitney is one of the most enterprising and successful business men of "Worcester County. lie has achieved success. He was brought up on a larni and drove a team on the highway for ten years. In 1S")8, soon al'ter the death of Ilufns Bullock, he bought the woolen-mill at South Iljyaloton, although ho already owned a chair-shop, and had been engaged in the manu- facture of chairs since tho year 1848. lie thus became the head of two important manufacturing interests. He employs more than one hundred hands in both factories, and, during the past years of depression and widespread "panic," has moved steadily on, keeping the full quota of help in both the mill and chair-shop. Col. Whitney has held the position of depot-agent cinitinuously since tho establishment of a depot at South Royalston ; has represented his town in the Legislature, both in the House and Senate. He has been a mem- ber of the Governor's Council for the years 1873, '74, '7.'), '7G and '77, five consecutive years, when he declined to stand longer as a candidate for the office. The vote at the election in 1875, to serve in 1870, as recorded in the office of the Secretary of State, is, George Whitney, 24,318 ; scattering, 7. The vote at the election in 187(), to serve in 1877, recorded as above, is, Geo. Whitney, 33,354, and no votes againsi Jam. We venture to say that nr) other public man in the Commonwealth has a like record of unanimity at any election where 30,000 or more ballots have been cast. In 1857, 72,000 yards of woolen cloth were manufactin-ed, — value, $72,000; there -were 129,000 palm-leaf hats manufactured, — value, $10,225 ; value of chairs and cabinet-ware manufactured, $15,041 ; there were eleven saw-mills; value of lumber, $18,165. The value of goods made and work done in 1875 were : chair-stock and lumber, $7,500 ; chairs, wood seat, $20,000 ; hats, palm- leaf, $20,000 ; shoe-pegs, brush handles, croquet-sets, &c., $10,000; woolen goods, $150,000; wooden-ware, $10,300; total manufactures, $223,850. A name which will ever bo honored by the citizens of Royalston is that of Rufus Bullock. He was the eldest son of Hugh and Rebecca Bullock, and was born in Royalston Sept. 23, 1779, and died in his native town, where he had MANUFACTURES. 2.>7 always livctl, June 10. 1858, aged 78. Although his moans were limited, yet ho ohtaincd a good education, worked upr)n (he farm and taught school. IIo af'tcrwiuds engaged in trade, having a store on the Common. May 4, 1808, ho married Miss Davis of Kindge, N. II. lie did not engage in manufacturing until ho was about forty-five years of age, but during the remainder of his life he devoted himself assiduously to this business and accumulated a very largo fortune. It has been truly said of him : ''lie was a patriot of the early type, — a contlcman of the olden school, — a frieml to be trusted, and a man whose principles bore the test of intimate acquaintance and inspection, and whoso influence, unobtrusive but potent, has been eminently useful." lie held many offices of trust and honor; was one of the trustees of Amherst College, and was the donor of a telescope for the College Observatory ; represented the town seven years in the Legislature, — five in tho House, two in the Senate ; was delegate to the Constitutional Conventions of 1820 and 1853, and was ( hoson presidential elector. His benevolence was proverbial, and in his will ho loft many bequests to most noble and worthy objects. When ho died the whole town was in mourning for tho loss of the beloved, honored, and most distinguished son of Royaiston. The old homestead of the Cullock family is now occupied by Mrs. Emily DidlocU Ripley, daughter of Rufus Bullock, and Condace Ruliock, her aunt. Mrs. Ripley gave the j the authority of the same: "That the iuhaliitaiUs and freeholders of Rutland be invested with, and forever luiv- after enjoy all the powers, privileges and iramuniiios which oilier towns have an.l enjoy : and that they Ije enabled to levy, assess and collect three pence per acre annu- ally Vor the space of two and one-half years from July 1, 17-21, on all lands wh.eth. r divided or undivided, contained within the lines of the six miles square, on which the present inhabitants have settled: anil that the said land be subjected and made liable to the payment of the same, to defr.iy the expense of building the Meeting-house, andj compensating the minister for his salary." In consequence of the above act, an order of the General Court was pas-^cd July G, 1722, authorizing Capt. Samuel Wright to call a meeting of the free- holders and other inhabitants of Rutland on the last Monday of July current, to choose town ofGccrs to serve until the meeting of March next. The town was notified, and met accordingly, and this was the first legal town meeting held in Rutland. The principal officers chosen were : — Modera- tor, Capt. Samuel Wright; town clerk, Capt. Samuel Wriglit; selectmen Capt. Samuel Wright, Ens. Joseph Stevens, Lieut. Simon Davis; asscssui NATURAL FEATURES. 2GI Capt. Samuel Wright, Eus. Joseph Stevens, Daniel IIowc ; town treasurer, Ens. Joseph Stevens. This town occupies the central p irt of Worcester County. It is siluatcd on the height of land tifty miles west of Boston, forty cast of the Connecticut Kivcr, twelve north-west of Worcester, and an equal distance from New Hampshire on the north, Connecticut on the south, and, at the centre of the town, 1,250 feet above the level of the ocean at Boston. The present bounda- ries may be thus stated : North-east by Princeton ; east and south-east by Holden ; south i)}' Paxton ; south-west by Oakham ; and north-west by Barre and Ilubbardston. It is well diversified with hills, valleys, plains, streams, ponds, and some mineral sprinas. The soil is of several varieties, from the rich loam to the dr3', barren sand ; yet there is still but little of the latter description which will not repay the industrious farmer for his labor. It is a good grazing township. The growth of wood is of many kinds (from one of the largest and most beau- tiful elm-trees in the State to the humble shrub), such as oak, chestnut, hem- lock, pine, birch, beech, ash and maple ; these are found in many varieties. The cast branch of the Ware River is the only stream running through the town. It has its source on the west side of Wachusett Mountain. It enters the north-east part, taking a circuitous course, receiving several tributaries, unning over five miles in the town, falling one hundred feet, and leaving at the north-west corner of the town. The principal brooks are: Pomagusset, ■which is composed of the waters from the meadows and swamps near Prince- ton, runs west through Pomagusset Meadow, and empties into Ware River. Mill Brook derived its name from having the first mills in Rutland carried by its power. It has its source from one of the two springs that rise near each other one-half mile east of the church. The waters of several other springs west of Muschopaugc Hill unite with this, and form a stream on which considerable business was carried on. Its course is westerly through the meeting-house meadow, and flows into Long Meadow Brook. Davis' Brook has its source at or near the same spring as Mill Brook. These two are a curiosity, as one unites with the Connecticut, and the other with the Mcrrimac River. The Bummit of the uncompleted Massachusetts Central Railroad, running from Boston to Northampton, one-half mile north of the centre of the town, is near these springs. Long Meadow Brook receives its waters from Long Pond, pmplics into Ware River. Buck Brook is the outlet of Demond Pond, and unites with Long INIcadow Brook. About one-half a mile south-east of the mceting-housc is a spring, flowing from the waters which soon divide ; part run to the Mcrrimac and part to the Connecticut River. Muschopaugc Pond is the starting and closing point of the Indian deed. It covers about one hun- idrcd acres, is fed b}' springs. Its water is pure and deep, and it is a reservoir .for mills. Demond Pond has the same properties as Muschopauge, contains 1 about seventy acres. Long Pond is al)out a mile in length ; but it is narrow, 262 TOWN OF RUTLAND. resembles a large river, and is fed Ijy springs. Its waters are deep ; it is a reservoir, and affords good water-power. These ponds furnish a variety of fish. The centre of tlic town is situated upon a hill, from which we have a fine view of all the adjoining towns, Mount AVachuselt, and Monaduock Mountain in New Hampshire. Muschopauge Hill is the most elevated land in the town. Joj'ner's Hill, one mile north of the church, presents a fine appearance as you pass through the centre of the town. There are many other hills which afford from their summits a heautiful prospect. Most of our meadows, when first cleared, produced abundant crops. It is evident that some were pailiuUy cleared by the natives or the beavers, and produced grass before the white people settled here. This aided the first settlers iu furnishing food for their stock during the first years. Kutland has a healthful climate. The winters are cold and bleak, but the summers cool and delightful. It is u favorite resort for city boarders, being unequal to Princeton only in hotels and boarding-houses. The General Court and proprietors made some provisions for schools in their grant to the settlers of the six miles square. It w.is one of the conditions of the grant that one si.xty-third part of the lauds should be set off and appro- priated for school purposes. Accordingly the lot numbering G3 was set apart for that object. What was called the House Lot of thirty acres was situ- ated on a hill one mile west of the meeting-house. The division of one hun- dred and fifty acres was laid out and located partly by the House Lot, and partly by the East Wing. In 1744, the school lauds were, by vote of the town, sold for £156 4.s. \0d., and put on interest. For the first twenty j'ears after the grant the privileges for an education ■were limited, there being no school houses; it was dangerous for children to go from house to house, not only on account of the Indians, but of the voracii)Us bears and wolves. Mothers when sitting at their doors with their children, could see the wild beasts pass with their young. In October, 1733, the town voted to provide a teacher before the court in November, and chose the follow- ing School Conunittee : Capt. John Hubbard, Elcazer Ball and Dunkin McFar- land. At the same time voted to have the school kept two-thirds of the time in the centre of the town, at Col. Hatch's house, aud one-third at the West "Wing, by the pond. This was taught by Mr. AVhitaker, and was the first pub- lic school iu Rutland. In 1734 the town voted that two school-houses bo erected at the town's expense ; one near the church, the other south-west of Cedar Swamp Pond. In 1735 the town engaged Mr. William Brintnal as teacher ibr one year; he taught three terms in three different places. Until 1781 the centre district extended from Holdcn line to the bounds of Oakham, in which, for several years before the Revolution, there was a Latin grammar school taught during the year ; to encourage the same Col. Murray gave twenty doUiu's annually. RELIGIOUS tXSTITUTIOXS. 2G3 During; the Revolutionary war education was somewhat neglected. Cut it is evident that Ruthmd has not been wanting in disposition or ability to educate her children and youth. The following table shows when each school district was formed ; where h)cated, and number of inhabitants, male and female in each, in 1828 : — Xo. Formed, Males. Females. Total. Location. Centre. Oct., 1734 102 100 202 By tlie Common. I Sept., liSl 7i 76 1.^0 East of Sewell Farm. •) M:iy, 17GS 40 35 75 West of School Lot. 3 May, 1761 GO 62 122 By Ilarwood Brook. i Aug., 1781 7G 5t 130 Pound Hill. May, 17G8 50 61 111 By Irish Lane. 6 May, 17Gi Gl Go 126 Dublin. 7 Aug:., K81 71 78 no Barracks. 8 May, 1709 Total, . . 97 / i 174 By Ware River. 631 Gi)8 1,242 Population of the town at different periods of its history ; in 1820, 1,276; in 18G5, 1,011; 1875, 1,030. lu 1790, 1,072; CHAPTER II. nELTGIOU.S IXSTITUTIONS — EEVOLUTIOXARY WAR — ALAEJI MEN — BUKGOYNE S E.\CA.MPMEXT KCTLAXD I.V THE KEBELLIOX AGUICULTURE M.VNUFAC- TUEES PLDLIC LIBRARY PUBLIC MEN A REMIXISCENCE OF CRIME. Iv the very lieginning of the settlement of the town, the inhabitants of Rut- land tooli active measures to secure to themselves gospel privileges. The first act which is recorded was June 7, 1720, when a committee of the proprietors held a meeting to request the settlers to decide where to locate the meeting- house. It was subsequently voted to build a house forly-one and a half feet by thirty, and locate it opposite the cemetery. In the following year, and only sixteen days after the six miles square was conveyed by the proprietors to the settlers, "as a sure inheritance to them forever," the Rev. Joseph Willard was selected by a majority of the voters. The invitation was accepted by Mr. \Y., but he never was installed, for the reason previously given. During the intervening time of nearly five years, several persons preached to the inhabitants, and it was not until 1727 that another minister was chosen. On the 17th of May. of that year, the inhaliitants of Rutland held a meeting " to choose and call anal)le and learned orthodox and pious person to dispense the word of God unto them." 2i)4 TOWN OF RUTLAND. At that time Mr. Thomas Friuk was unauimously chosen and ai-cppted the call. Nov. 1, 1727, he was ordained as their pastor. Shortly after Mr. Frink was selticd. a strong Picsbytcriau clement was manifested. Abont two-fifths of his meiiihers withdrew and erected a church at the West Wing, which was after- ward the church hiiilding in OaUham, until the present one in use took its place. This act caused Mr. Frink to tender his resignation, which was accepted by the town Sept. 8, 1740. lie graduated at Harvard University in 1722, and was "a learned divine." The second ordained minister was Mr. Joseph Buckmin- stcr, who was settled Sept. 15,1742. It was during his pastorate in 1759, that the second church was erected. It was in size sixty by fifty feet, and was considered " a large and well fini-ihed house I'or so youug a society." Mr. Buckminster had an able and successful ministry of mure than fifty jears. when it was terminated i)y death Nov. 3, 1792, at the age of seventh-three. It is recorded that the town and church were so well united at the close of Mr. Buckminstcr's ministry and life, that every person in town, who paid any taxes, paid a part of his salary. " lie was distuiguished for intellectual ability, niinistciial fidelity and zeal." lie was born at Framingham and graduated at Harvard University in 1739. The ne.\t year Mr. Ilezokiah Goodrich was (iivlaiiied as the third minister and continued initil his death, which occurred Feb. 7, 1812. Mr. Luke B. I'"'oster very soon succeeded Mr. Goodrich. Ills ministry was cut short tifter a duration of four years, by an early death. He died May 23, 1817, at the agj of twenty-eight. In less than a year the church invited Mr. Josi.ih Clark to settle hero ; ho was ordained June 2, 1818. Mr. C. was born at Northampton and graduated at "Williams College. His ministry continued twenty-seven years, when he died July 11, 1845, aged sixty. His labors were blessed with rich success, and by his faithfidness and affection, he endeared himself to his people. He was valued as a preacher, beloved as a pastor, and prized as a friend. And even now, in the eminence of his piet}' and ability, he lives in the memory of the people, as one superior in social sympathies and oilicial labors. The church building has been twice destroyed by fire, the first time on Feb. 28, 1830, the second Jan. 7, 1849. The society and church showed once more a commendable energ}' and perse- vcrauce (notwithstanding their misforttmc), by erecting a building more com- modious in size and agreeable in architecture than any of the former ones. It was completed at a C(jst of S8,000. The remaining pastors arc : Rev. Daniel II. Cidy, ordained Oct. 29, 1845, dismissed Oct. 11, 1849. Rev. George E. Fisher, ordained Feb. 27, 1850, dismissed May 13, 1852. Rev. David Burt, installed Jan. 10, 1856, dismissed Feb. 25, 1858. Rev. Clarendon Waitc, ordained Feb. 25, 1858, dismissed Mar. 13, IStjfi. Rev. Henry Cummings, installed Sept. 5, 18GG, dismissed July 1, 1874. Rev. George E. Dodge, installed Dec. 27, 1877. IN THE KEVOLUTIOX, 2G5 Though there have hoeii long intervals when the society has been destitute of a settled minister, yet there have been but few Sabbaths since the organization of the church, in which there have been no religious services. Alxjut 1840 the JMclhodists began to hold meetings. A society- was formed, and in 1844 they built a house of wor.ship. The society for several years pros- jjcrod. In tinie many of its most wealthy members died or left town, and lliiise remaining feeling unable or unwilling to support preaching, allowed the society to expire. The house some years since passed into private hands. The Adventists have an established church and society at North Rutland, where they have regular preaching in the chapel built by this society in 1874. It could not have been anticipated that Rutland would take that united and detisivc stand that she did at the commencement of the Revolution, for her min- ister was not vcr}' zealous in taking up arms against the mother country, and Col. Murray, who was friendly with the present rulers, was a man in whom a majority of the people had put implicit ontidcncc ; 3'et Rutland, almost to a man, united in defending her civil and religious rights and privileges. In 17G5 the town instructed her representative. Col. Murray, " to use his bes't endeavors in the General Assembly to have the rights and privileges of this province vindicated and preserved to us and our posterity." The Stamp Act was repealed. The people were so rejoiced that they raised a liI)crt3'-pole, and set apart a day for feasting and gladness. Furthermore, they were so patriotic that on March G, 1775, they voted that all the militia, from si.xteen years of age and u|)wards, be required to meet on the 13. h inst., to form them- selves ifito a company, and choose their officers to command and discipline them, anil each was to be provided whh arms and ammunition. David Bent was chosen captain, whose commission was " honor and patriotism." At this time the}' drew up and signed a solemn and patriotic obligation, of which the following is the last clause : — " And .as the law of self-preservation requires us at this time, to prepare oiirsch-cs for repelling, force by force, in case we sboiiUl l)e reduced to such fatal necessity : Therefore we do lioreby firmly covenant, and engage with each other, under the sacred tics of Honor, Virtue and Love of our country, that we will endeavor forthwith to be equipped with arms, ammunition and accoutrements, according to the Province Law, with this addition, that each soldier shall have thirty bullets, instead of twenty. And furthermore, that we will each of us respectfully adhere, obey and conform to all military orders." Although the mortal sickness of 1749 and 1750 swept off about eighty of our children and youth, yet Rutland had a goodly nnml)er of heroic young men to face the enemy at the commencement of the Revolutionary War. In 1775 forty-eight of the most active and patriotic were selected, armed and equipped, to be ready for acti(m at a minute's warning. Thomas Eustis was chosen captain, John Stone, lieutenant, William Bridge, ensign. When called they marched; many of them engaged in the lirst eight months' service, and 266 TOWN OF RUTLAND. were ill the mem()ral)le battle of Biinlvor Hill, Juno 17, 1775. Bunjumiu Reed and M:ij. Willard Muoro were among llio number slain. In 1777 this town's quota of men to be raised for three years, or during the war, was thirty-six, which numljer the town voted to raise and give them £20 each as an additional sum, and chose a committee to hire them. In 1781 the quota was fourteen. Paper money being of little value, the town voted to give the fourteen men who should enlist £90 each in hard money, or other property equivalent, and chose a committee to carry the same into effect ; then voted that the sum of £G30 be assessed on the inhabitants for that purpose. To defray, the expenses incurred by the war and town, there was paid into the treasury, between April 14, 1781, and May G, 1782, in paper money £22,656 6s. 6d., and in hard money £1,405 13s. Id. This constituted a part of the expense of the town during the war. "From the commencement to the close of the war was a time of danger, distress, hardship and deprivation." Rutland was selected by the government as a safe encampment for Bur- goync's army, after its surrender in 1777. A committee was appointed to build a barrack of 120 by 40 feet, two stories high, containing twenty-four rooms twenty feet square ; this, together with a number of temporary' barracks, was enclosed in a square of several acres, surrounded liy a fence twelve feet high. The troops ()uartered here during the season of 1778, but it being difficult to procure food for the winter, they were removed to the South. All that now remains to mark the location is a pile of dcbiis and a well ten feet in diameter and tifty feet in depth. The following is the list of " Alarm ]Mcn" of 1775 : — Joseph Buckminstpr, .Tosoph Blake, .Tames Blair, Samuel Brittain, John Briant, Dan- iel Bartlett, Joseph Bartlelt, Gideou Brown, James Cunningham, Erlward Clark, Samuel Cowdcn, Peter Davis, Epbraim Davis, Nathan Davis, Daniel Davis, Daniel Murraj', John McCianthan, Moses Maynard, Jeduthan Moor, William McCobh. Joshua Nurse, George Oak, John Phelps, John Rice, Jonas Reed, Benjamin llecil, Robert Rozer, John Stone, Samuel Stone, Samuel Stone, 2d, Ebenezah Foster, Robert Foibes, John Frink, Ebenezah Frost, Tliomas Flint, John Fesscndcn, Zacharias Gates, John Ilucker, James Henderson, Ephraini Iluljbard, Matthias Ilowe, Simon Ilcakl, Samuel Jones, Nathaniel Munro, Paul Moor, Daniel Saunders, George Smith, James Smith, Isaac Savage. Sam- uel Stratton, John Slralton, John Williams, James Wheeler, John Watson, Francis Maynard, Jonathan Wliiling, Simon Stone, Jason Reed, Daniel Estabrook, Samuel Am'^s. Below is found the muster-roll of the company of Minute-Men commanded by Capt. Thomas Eustis, which marched from Rutland to Cambridge, April 19, 1775: — Capt., Thomns Eustis ; 1st lieut., John Stone : 2d lieut., Elijah Stearns ; sergeants, Samuel Browning, Timothy Metcalf, Isaac Wheeler ; privates, Solomon !RIunro, Asa Church, Aaron Phcli)s, Caleb Clap, Joshua Clap, David Howe, Lulher Stevens, John Cuuniugham, James Williams, Joseph Wood, Benjamin Munro, Asa Davis, Jeduthan ROLL OF HONOR. 267 Stone, Epbraim Curtis, Israel Stone, William Smitb, Silas Cent, Thomas Ball, John Bruce, Benjamin Estabrook, Benjamin Reed, Jr., John Davis, Abraham Wheeler, .Jonas Walker, Robert Munro. Benjamin Miles, Jr., Hugh Smith, Michar How, Josei)hAVright, Seth Duncan, William Brittan, Jonas Parmenter, Moses Baxter, Jonas Smith, .Joseph King, Simon Phelps, Matthias How, Daviil Underwood, Eli Clark, Elijah Stone, Sam- uel Moor, James Smith. The fnllowing list comprises the names of soldiers accredited to the town, iu the Reliellion oF 18G1-65. Those marked with a star died in the service : — Lvman A. Baker, Charles R. Bartlett, George F. Bartlett, Roswell Bemis, Herman N. Bemis, *William E. Briant, Jr., Edward Brown, *Jona E. Cliilds, Perrin Dean, •Martin B. Dean, *Chaiiney P. Demond, John Evans, George Edgley, Frederick Em- ery, Edson Fairbank. Frank Fagan, Alvin B. Fisher, Edwin J. Forbush, George W. Foster, Albert C. Foster, George P. Flagg, Joseph Gibbs, Samuel C. Green, Ferdinand Gore, James M. Goodwin, Patrick Harrigan, George A. Hill, *Edson H. Howe, *Ed- wiu Howe, George L. Hunt, John W. Hooker, Edwin H. Holmes, Oliver P. Judson, JohnMcCarty, C. E. McDouough, John McKuight, Elbridge Lane, George Lakin, Ben- jamin L. Leonard, *Daniel A. Leonard, *C'harle3 IL Leonard, James Martin, Brown JIason, M. R. Moulton, H. V. Moulton, *John S. Mills, Bryant J. Moore, Frederick Morse, James Mnrray. Hiram B. Oliver, John F. Orville, *Charles E. Parker, Isaac E. Parker, Hill Parsons, George B. Phelps, Charles E. Pike, Edward F. Preston, *Joseph K. Rawson, Thomas Riley, John F. Rice, Irwin Ricker, Dr. James T. Rood, Merrill F. Rogers, Joshua F. Roberts, Edward Russel, Alfred A. Sanderson, Pliny W. Sanderson, Jacob Shaffer, David F. Smith, Frank W. Smith, Daniel H. Smith, James D. Smith, David W. Smith. *Sidney M. Smith, George G.Taylor, Simeon B. T.aylor. S. C. Thomp- son, Cyrus n. Wesson, Albert Wetherbee, Edward D. Wetherbee, John Welch, Charles West, Charles Williams, Frank AVood, Charles E. Woodis, Willard S. Woodis, Peter Williamson, George P. Woodis. Wc believe there was no soldier who went from, and belonged to, this town, but returned (if at all) with an honorable record. Rutland is principally an agricultuial town, and the most of our lands being of a deep soil, will repay the farmer for his toil. The chief products arc beef, ])ork, mutton, poultry, bultcr, cheese, wood, coal, hay, barley, oats and pota- toes. Wc have no extensive manufactures. At different periods of the hislory there has been manufactured carriages, sleighs, cabinet furniture, chairs, rakes, boots, baskets, chair-seating, cloth and palm-leaf hats. A public library of ten hundred and si.\ty-tivc well-selected volumes, is one of our valued institutions. It has been established fifteen or twenty years, owned and conti'olled by the town. Gen. Rufus Putnam, an officer in the American Revolution, iu (ho year 1782 purchased one of Col. Murray's confiscated farms, removed his family to Rut- land, and while in the army gave directions lor the management of the same. At the close of the war he returned to his family. During the time he was here he was active, and made himself useful. He oflJciatcd as coustablc, col- 2G8 TOWN OF RUTLAND. lector, selcclman and representative to the General Court. lu 1787 he was appointed hy Ciingress as one of the surveyors to lay out the western territory ; was one of tlic corumilteo on Ihc sale of eastern lands ; a justice of the peace and of the quorum, and was one of the first and principal settlers of Ohio. At this time the roads from New England to Ohio were not direct or desirable to travel over; no coach, steamboat or iron horse to convcj' them, but ox-wngons and saddle-ponies were their only modes of conveyance; yot in 171)0, Gen. rutnani, with about fifty others from Kutland, emigrated to Ohio and settled at what is now JIaiictta, and his descendants are some of the leading men of that place and vicinity at the present time. Among the distinguished men who early settled in town, CjI. John Murray was one of the most prominent and infiucntial. He came from Ireland in in- digent circumstances, but by enterprise, good fortune, and the assistance of friends, became the most wealthy man that ever lived in Rutland. He repre- sented the town in the General Court for twenty consecutive years, and held most of the offices in the power of the people to bestow. His having been ap- p. tinted a mandamus counsellor so exasperated the people, at the breaking out of the Revolution, that they arose and compelled him to leave the town for the last time. His real estate, except one farm which was retained for his son, who remained true to his country, was all confiscated and sold to maintain the government in its struggle fcjr liberty. The following persons, belonging to Rutland, have hjld offices in the county : — Williani Caldwell, Esq., sherilT from 1793 to 1805 ; Moses White, Esq.. sheriff from ISU to 1812, and Justice of the Court of Sessions, 1807 ; Daniel Clap, Esq., Register of Deeds from 1784 181G ; John Fcssendcn, Esq., senator from 1787 to 1791 ; Francis Blake, Esq., senator from 1810 to 1812, and from 1813 to 1815 ; also clerk of the court 181G and 1817 ; Thomas II. Blood, Esq.. senator from 181G to 1818 ; J. Wancn Bigc- low, Esq., County Commissioner from 18G2 to 1877. The first murder, after this county was incorporated, was committed in tliis town. Daniel Campbell, a Scotchman who came into New England in 17l(), was barbarously murdered March, 1744, by Edward FitzpatricU, an emplo\e of said Campbell. Fitzpatrick was tried at the Septeml)er term of the Superior Court at Worcester, the same year, and found guilty and sentenced to be hung on the eighteenth day of October; but no record has ever been ft und of his execution, and, strange as it may appear, there never has been any motive dis- covered to justify the horrid crime. The following legible inscription may be seen upon the headstone of Campbell's grave, iu the old cemetery : — " Iloro lies buried y" body of Mr. Daniel Campbell born in Scotland, came into New England Anno. 171G was murdered on his own farm in Rutland by Ed. Fitzpatrick an Irishman on March y' 8 Anno. 1744 in y" 48 year of his age." " Man knoweth not uis xiMii." ORIGINAL GRANT. 269 SHREWSBURY BY SAMUEL I. HOWE, ESQ. CHAPTER I. RELATIVE POSITION AND TEURITOHY SETTLEMENT AND INCOUPOnATIOX THE REVOLUTION. The town of Shrewsbury is situated in llic eastern part of the comity, ndjoined on the north-west i>y Bojiston and a cdrncr of West Doylston, on the west by Worcester, on the south by Grafton and a part of Millbnry, and on the cast by Wcstborouixh and a part of Xortlilioroiigh. The distance from tlic shire town is five and a half miles, and from the capital, by way of the old post-road, thirtj'-seven miles. The township of Shrewsbury was granted to certain persons, most of whom were fri m Marlborough, on Nov. 2, 1717. The original tract was much larger than the present territory. The township at (ir.-t contained all the lands lying between the original grant for Lancaster on the north, Worcester on the west, Sutton on the south, and Marlborough on the east. This large territory included the greater part of Boylston, West Boylston, a part of Sterling, Weslborough and Grafton. Li 1741 four petitioners, Elicnczcr Cutler, Obadiah Newton, Noah ErooUs and David Read, with their firms, wcio annexed to Graflon. In 1752 all lands in the northern part of the town, lying on the north side of the Quinnepo.xet River, and between the towns (;f Lancaster and Iloldcn, known as the "Leg," were rated off, and in 17()d joined to Lancaster. During the year 1702 other inhabitants living in the south- westerly part of the town, called the "Shoe," were annexed to Weslixirough. On March 1, 177G, the lands lying in tlie northern part of the town, then called the "Second Parish of Shrewsbury," were annexed to Boyl-ton, and in March, 17f'3, a small part on the west was joined to Weslborough. The present territory of Shrewsbuiy comprises about thiitecn Ihou-aiid acres. In 1717 eeitain persons, formerly of MarIl)orough, became the lirst settlers of Shrewsbury. Previous to this, probalily in 171G, these persons pciitiomcl for a township. This petition or a copy cannot be found, but the ''Viewing 270 TOWN OF SHREWSBURY. Committee," appointed by the General Court, made their "Report on the Petition of Marlboro' men,' as follows : — " Pursuant to an act of the General Assembly at their session in May last, we the subscribers have been upon the land petitioned to be a township by John Brigham and thirty others ; have viewed the situation and the quality of the same, and informed our- selves of the circumstances of the petitioners, that desire the prant of the land for a town- ship, and are of opinion that tliey. and such as join with them, are a eumpetcnt number, and such as are likely by themselves, or tlicir descendants, to make a good and speedy settlement thereon. And that, if this Honorable Court allow to the westerly part of Marlboro' a line to l:)e continued from the westerly line of Lt. Rice's farm, until it meets with Fay's farm, and then to bound by said Fay's farm, according to tlie line thereof, until it meet with Sutton line on the southward, and from the north-west corner of said Rice's land to run upon a straight line to a heap of stones, called Warner's Corner which is the most Easterly corner of ITaynes' farm by the County lload, and from thence by a line running North 20 degrees East by the needle, till it meet with Lancaster line on the North, it will not so disadvantage the land petitioned for a township, but that it may be very accommodable and entertain a suitable number of persons to make a good town." "Samuel Thaxter. John Chandler. Jonathan Remington. " JIaklboro', June 19, 1717." On the foregoing report it was ordered, on Nov. 2, 1717, — " That the tract of land protracted and described, with the farms heretofore granted to particular persons contained in the plat be made a township, excepting so mucii thereof, as the report of Samuel Thastcr, John Chandler and Jonatha)i Remington, Esqs., doth propose to be taken off and added to the Westerh- part of Marlboro' ; and that Samuel Thaxter, Jonathan Remington, and Francis Fullam, Esqs , be a committee fully empowered to grant and la\- out the whole of said lands (except what has been heretofore granted) to such persons as the}- in their wisdom shall think most likely to advance the settlement of the place ; the}^ p.aying the said committee for the use of the province, not exceeding twelve pence per acre for said lands, and the charge of the committee for laying out the same, which is to be done in as convenient and defensible a manner as the circumstances of the plan will admit of, provided they have at least forty families settled there with an orthodox minister within the space of three j-ears, and that a lot and other accommodations as large and convenient as may be to the place, will admit of in the judgment of said Committee be laid out to the first settled minister, also a lot for the ministry, and another for the use of the school." Tlio "laying-otit committee" made its report on Dec. 18, 1718. During (he Slimmer before lands were allotted in parcels varying from fifty 1o seventy acres, on condition that before June, 1725, each "lot man" or grantee should pay "for the nse of the province" throe pounds and twelve shillings. The names of the grantees arc here given in the order reported by the comniittco : Joseph Riiekminster, John Houghton, George Brown, John Keyes, Sr., Jolham Brig- PETITION FOR INCORPORATION. 271 ham, John Wheeler, James Keyos, John Ke}-es, Jr., Eloazer Taylor, Thomas Ilale, Jacob Hinds, Samuel Crosby, John Gates, John Upham, Daniel Rand, Richaid Temple, Jolin Sbattnck, Joseph Baker, John Wheeler, Samnel Brigham, John Sherman, William Johnson, Thomas Glcason, Peter Smith, Abiah Bush, William Ward, John Brigliam, Peter Ilains, Joshua Ilains, David Ilains, Moses Newton, John Crosby, Jonathan Witt, Thomas Ilapgood, James Gleazon. Caleb Rice, Elias Keyes, Jonathan Loring, Nahnm Ward, Edward Goddard, Gershom Keyes. In nddition to these grants the committee ". appointed hy the general court to settle the town of Shrewsbury" were given what was called the "Committee's farm." It contained fifteen hundred acres and formed the nortii-west corner of the township. During the five years that followed the early settlements and grants, occu- pation proceeded slowly ; but in 1727 the nnmbcr of inhabitants warranted the presentation of this petition : — " To the lion. Willinm Dammer Esq., the Lieutenant Governor, and Commander-in- chief, the Honorable Council, and the Honorable House of Representatives of His Majesti/s Province of Massachusetts Bay, in Xew England, in General Court assem- bled, November 22, 1727 : " The petition of the inhabitants of Shrewsbury in the County of Middlesex, hum- bly sheweth : That your petitioners were by the Great and Honorable Court, erected into a township, and not having granted unto them the immunities and privileges of other towns within this Province, were pnt under the care of a committee, which com- mittee carried on that work to great satisfaction, but have now declined acting ; so that 3-our petitioners are under great difficulties as to paying their Minister and raising the pul)lic taxes ; and the Province Treasurer has issued forth his warrant directing the assessing of the inhabitants of the town of Shrewsburj', their Province tax for this year ; and forasmuch as your petitioners have no Selectmen, or Assessors, nor arc empowered to choose town officers whereby many and great inconveniences do arise ; therefore j'our petitioners most humbly praj- your Honor's consideration of the prem- ises, and that j"our Honors, would be pleased to enriiower the town of Shrewsbury to use and exercise the same immunities and privileges as other towns within this Prov- ince hold and enjoy, and that a day may be assigned for the choice of town officers for the year current, and your petitioners as in dut\- bound shall ever pray. "John Ketes, Daniel Howe, Naiicm Wari>, In behalf of the Town." The foregoing petition was presented to the General Court and received action on Dec. 14, 1727 : — "In the House of Representatives December 14, 1727. Read and ordered that the prayer of the petitioners be granted, and that the said town of Shrewsbury is accord- ingly endowed with equal powers, privileges and immunities with anj' other town in this Province, and Captain John Keyos, a principal inhabitant in the said town be 272 TOWN OF SHREWSBURY. empowered ami directed to notify and summon tiic inlinbitant^, duly qualified for voters, to meet and assemble for tlie choosing of town oiUccrs to stand until the next annual election." The first town mcctin? was bold on Dec. 20, 1727. Lient. X.duini Ward was inddcrator, .John Kcyes, Sr. , was ciioscn clerk, Naliuni Ward, Jolm Kcyes, John Koycs, Jr., Saniiiel Whcclock and Isaac Stone, selectmen and assessors, and Ensign Daniel IIowc, treasurer. From the time of tlic incorporation of the town of Shrewsbury to that of the uprising of the American Colonics in defence of their inalienable rights and privileges, its history, according to the records, is mainly ecclesiastical. It is evident, however, from the following petitions, that Shrewsbury was repre- sented in the expedition against Crown Point in 1755 : — "A petition of Nathan Howe of Shrcwsbur}-, Ensign, also of William Ilowe and Ephraim Smith, of said town, on account of bis son Aaron, soldiers in the late Crown Point expedition, who returned from the army sick, praying an allowance of their accounts exhibited ; also Sarah Smith, Executrix of Joshna Smith, physician, who administered to sundrj- sick soldiers on their return home. Granted to Nathan IIowc, £5 IGs. 0}cl.; William Howe, £G Gd. ; Ephraim Smith, £3 4s. 4d. ; Sarah Smith, Executrix, £1 14s. 8d." In the same year — 175G — "Zebediah Johnson, of Shrewsbury, represents that he had a gun impressed for the use of a soldier, valued at 30 shillings, of which he received two dollars ; that the soldier had run away, and he w.as likely to lose the balance, and prays relief. Granted to him twcnly shillings in full for his gun." As required by law, Shrewsbury was early supplied wi;h a whipping-post and stocks which were placed near the niecting-housc. According to tradition, "the person who made the stocks for (his town was the first to occupy them, and received payment for them in the remittance of a fine, that accrued to the town for his ofTcncc." The first public act of the town of Shrewsbury in regard to the Revolution was taken in May, 1770, when "a vote of thanks was passed to the mcrchanls and other inhabitants of the town of Boston for (he noble and generous stand they had taken in the defence of the people's rights; and in May 1772 the town instructed its representative by no means, directh', or indirectly, to give up any constitutional right, nor ask for a removal of (he General Assembly to its ancient and legal seat, in such manner as to give up the claim the House of Representatives have heretofore so justly set up." In January, 1773, the town voted "that viewing themselves as subjects they had an undeniable right to life, liberty and property, and that the several acts of Parliament and Administration are subversive of these rights." Early in the year 1774, it was voted "that we will totally lay aside the use of all Teas on which a duty is payable, or hath been paid by virtue of any act ^'i%i ' jteiP'"'->,tt£lT I'll wtfrntft KKSIDF.N'CK OF TlloM\^ l:lrl. Ml ItUWSlllllV, MASS. f REVOLUTIONARY PERIOD. 273 of the Briti.sh Parliament, tliat wc will lie ever ready to do all in our power to ])rescrvc our just rights and ptivilogos, and will view, as an enemy to the Con- tinent any one who shall apiiear to be instrumental in currying said Act of Parliament into Execution, and that the town of Boston he furnished with a copy of the proceedings of this meeting." In August of the same year the town voted "that if the courts to he holden at Worcester, for the County of Worcester, for the future, be, in consequeme of the late Parliamentary Acts, or any new appointment by our Governor, authorized b\' said acts, that the town will resist and not suffer said courts to do business." During the following mouth, the town directed its constables not to serve the venires issued by the court to be holden at Worcester and, also, voted "to indenniify them for neglecting to serve the illegal and unprece- dented venire lately sent to this town." In 1774, the town voted "to purchase an iron field-piece and ammunition for the i^ame at the expense and for the use of the town." During the same year, it was voted "to htivc two companies of militia, or training soldiers in the South Pari-h " Of (-ne company. Job Gushing, Nathan Howe and Jasper Stone were lieutenants, and Isaac Drury, ensign. Of the other Asa Brigham, Isaac Harrington and Nathaniel Munroe, were lieutenants, and Samuel Noyes, ensign. On Dec. 27, 1774, "voted niianimousl}' to adopt the associatifin relative to the non-importation and non-consumption of British goods, recommended by the Continental Congress, .Mud the recommendations of the Provincial of the 5th of Deci'uiber, 1774; and in order to carry the same into vigorous execution, the following jicrsons arc chosen a committee of inspection : —Phineas Iley- Avood, Job Cnshiiig, Isaac Temple, Ross Wyman, Cyprian Keycs, Ezra Bea- man, Daniel Hcmenway, Asa Brigham, Isaac Harrington, Amariah Bigelow, Samuel Crosby, Thomas Symmcs, John Hastings, David Taylor and Jonas Stone; also voted that the collector of taxes be prohibited from paying the outstanding monies in their hands to Harrison Gray, Esq., Treasurer, but that they pay the same to Henry Gardner, Esq., of Stow; also to indemnify the collectors for so doing; also to indemnify the assessors of this town for not assessing the Province tax and for neglecting to return a certificate thereof to Harrison Gray, as by law required." In the same year the town "granted to the Hon. Artemas AVard, £11 lOs. to pay him for his services in attending the Piovincial Congress at Concord and Cambridge." On Jlay 2, it w-as voted "that each parish raise as many men as they can, to hold themselves in readiness to reinforce our army near Boston, if needed, with such officers as the companies .>hall think pioper; also that Phineas lleywood, Isaac Tcm[)lc, Edward Flint, Ross Wyman, and Isaac Harrington be a com- mittee to examine the Rev. Ebenczer Morse and others, suspected of Toryism." Mr. Morse was found guilty, and it was voted "that the committee of corro- VOI.. II.— 34 274 TOWN OF SHREWSBURY. sponclencc forthwith take from snid Morse his arms, amniiinition and warlike implements of all kinds to remain in said committee's hands for the present ; and that the said Morse do not pass over the lines of the 2d Parisii in Shrcwshnry, on any occasion whatever, without a permit from two or more of the committee of said precinct." Similar action was taken in rec^ard to other Tories. At the count}' convention, held at Worcester, on Aug. 9, 1774, the county of Worcester was divided into seven "regiments," and the sixth regiment com- prised the towns of Southborongh, Northborongh, Wcstborough, Grafton and Shrcwslniry. During the Revolution delegates were chosen .is follows : — To the first Pro- vincial Congress, 1774, .'\rtcmas Ward and Phineas Iley wood ; to the second Provincial Congress, 1775, Artemas Ward ; to the third Provincial Congress, 1775, Daniel Ilemenway ; to the convention to frame a Constitution of Massa- chusetts, 1770, Daniel Ilcmenw.ay ; to the convention to adopt a Constitution of the United Stales, 1789, Isaac Harrington ; to the convention to revise the Constitution of the United States, 1821, Nathan Pr.att. During the insinTcction of 17S7, called "Shays' Rebellion," the town of Shrewsbury was the place of rendezvous for the insurgents. "The town wore the appearance of a military camp ; drilling of men, marching and counter- marching." Following is a list of pensioners who entered the army of the Revolution from Shrewsbury : — John Bragg, IIuin|)hrey Bigclow, Peter Car}-, William Dexter, George Filmore, Austin Flint, Jouallian Harrington, .Jonah IIowc, Daniel Harrington, Nathan Howe, Jonas Hastings, Epbraim Holland, Jonah Holland, Daniel IIoUlcu, Thomas Harrington, Nathaniel Ilapgoorl, Solomon Howe, Gardner Howe, .Iose|)h B. Jennison, Ebenczer Maiui, Benjamin Maynard, Ilhamar Newton, M.arshall Newton, Calvin Newton, Benjamin Pratt, Natiian Pratt, Stephen Pratt, John Peirks, Jasper Rand, Calvin Sawjcr, Ashur Smith, Lewis Smith, Elijah Soulhgate, Samuel Smith, Lewis Smith, 2d, Jonas Stone, Stephen Smith. Joseph S. Temple, Asa Wheelock, Daniel Williams. CHAPTER H. PIITSICAL FEATURES — ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY — EDUCATIOXAL INTERESTS AGRICULTURE AND MANUFACTURES — THE CIVIL WAR. Shrewsbury, England, has no fairer namesake than Shrewsbury, Massachu- setts. The latter, owing to its position and natural advantages, to the elTorts and industry of its early inhabitants, and to the thrift and pride of their successors, has become one of the more picturesque as well as one of the wealthier towns in the county. The centre of the town, so called, is on the TOWN FEATURES. 275 southern slope of iNIeeting-IIouse Hill. A part of the old post-road between Boston and Worcester is the main street of the town. Formerly the only direct communication with AVorcestcr was by this road, which entered the city at the nortlicrn limit of Lake Quinsigamond. At the centre are the Congrega- tional and Methodist church cdiliecs, high school, town hall, stores, post-ofBce and the town's common. The common, with adjoining lands, formerly com- prised about seventeen acres, and belonged to William Taylor, one of the original proprietors and early settlers. lie gave the land to the proprietors of the mceting-honse on condition that the house of worship was erected n[)on it. jNIany years after Daniel Smith, claiming to be an heir of William Taylor, took possession of the common, plowed it and made preparations to obtain a crop of rye. The town brought action for trespass, ousted the claimant, and secured the rye and the common for ever. One mile south of the centre is the old turnpike road, laid out before the town was incorporated and while it was a part of Middlesex County. The act chartering the Worcester Turnpike Association was passed on Jun'e 10, 1808. It is nearly parallel with the post-road and crosses Lake Quinsigamond about midway. In 182(5 four stages a day passed on the post-road, and five on the turnpike. The town is abundantly supplied •with small streams and brooks. Ijiar.mct Crook and Hop Brook drain the eastern part of the town, and South Meadow Brook and others the AVestcrn. The land surface is remarkably uneven and diversified, and presents a succession of rounded hills and w-inding valleys. Rawson Hill, Ilailtnv's Hill, Sewall's Hill and Meefing-IIouse Ildl, in the northern part. Ward Mill in the eastern, Giccn Ilill in the south-eastern, and Prospect Ilill, in the south-western part, are all commanding elevations. The latter overlooks the bcawtifid lake of Quinsigamond, the greater part of which is in the territory of Shrewsbury. The town contains about three thousand acres of woodland, from which hirge quantities of fuel and timl)er are obtained. Agriculture is the chief occupation, and the soil is well adapted to its prosecution. The town is noted for its extensive and productive apple orchards. The manufacture of watches was an early enterprise in this town, and the first of the kind in this country. As early as 1780, Mr. Luther Goddard, a native of the town, commenced the business of making brass clocks; and being a man of great ingenuity and perseverance, ho soon turned his attention to watch-making, which business was very successfully pursued by him for a number of years, producing watches superior to what were in general use at that day. Many cf his make arc still in existence, and one is at present preseived by the American Antiquarian Society at Worcester. Many of the intricate tools used in the construction of a watch were the product of his own invention, skill and native genius, and in the early part of the time ho was obliged to procure skilled foreign workmen, as no native mechanics could be found who were able to cope with the line work. This enterprise was con- 27G TOWN OF SHREWSBURY. tinuctl in Shrewsbury till 1817, when it was removed to Worcester; where it rorinod the micloiis for the largo and successful business carried on for so n)any years by his sons Daniel and Parley Goddard, who were apprentices of their father in Shrewsbury. Mr. Goddard died in 1842, at the acje of 80 years. About the year 1797 John Jlason, a native of Sherburne, Mass., and a gunsmith b^' trade, removed to this town and commenced the manufacture of lifles, then a new enterprise in this country ; and for a long scries of yeai > made marked progress iu perfecting the rifle, as well as the shot-gun, haviiii: several apprentices who proved experts in the business. About 1815-18 no less than five prominent manufacturers of rifles were located in this town, as follows: John Mason, Silas Allen, Henry Baldwin, Josiah JlajMiard and John Jlaynard. These turned out rifles of superior workmanship and finish, costiiiLT generally not less than fifty dollars, and often as high as one hundred dollars each, which had a wide reputation for excellence. Others followed later in the same line, but the once famous rifle-makers of Shrewsbury have long since disappeared. ^Ir. Mason, the originator, died in 1813, at the age of 08 years. East of Shrewsljury Centre, in what is known as the "Lower Village," where are elegant and costly residences, are the extensive currying works of Nelson & Rice, founded by Nymphas Pratt, an early and prominent resident, wh > manufactured shoes, and tainied and curried. At Mr. Pratt's f lilure, Jonathan II. Nelson and Thomas Rice, apprentices, liecame owners, bu3ing of Pliny ^lerrick and others on Sept. IS, 1841, and of L. S. Allen the adjoining tan- yard on Sept. 29, 1802. Paul D. Boutell was admitted to partnership on Jan. 1, ISGO ; John W. Lawrence was admitted a partner in April, 1877. and retired in April, 1879. This establishment is the largest of the kind in Worcester County, giving employment to about fifty workmen, and producing about eighteen hundred sides per week, and in 187.3 the value of the pioduot was $400,000. The firm has unquestioned credit and is v.idcly known in this country and in Europe. The compau}' own and operate a tanyarl in Chester, and one in Winchendon, Massachusetts, and one in Gi'sum, New ILunpshire. In this village the manufacture of boots and shoes was begini in the j'car 1823, or about that time, by Leauder Falcs, who was the leader in this industry for forty j-ears or more. Boot-making is now in progress, and receives the attention of a small part of the inhai)itants. A few of the more notable societies and organizations of the town claim sonic notice here. One of the oldest is the "Thief-Dctccting Society," which was fjrmcd iu 1814. The first meeting was held at James Hamilton's inn, Febiuary 28 of that year, and the society has remained unimpaired till the present day, holding meetings for choice of ofliccrs on the first Monday in .lannary. The "Agricultural Associates of Shrewsbury and Vicinity " was organized in 1815, and adopted its constitution Jan. 2, 181G. They established staled meetings at three times in the year, which were to be devoted to "discussions LOCAL ORGANIZATION. 277 aud dissertations upon agricultural sulijects." This society was earlier in its origin than the similar one in Worcester, in which it, however, was tinally merged. The "Shrewsbury Eiflc Company," one of the early independent military organizations of the State, was chartered by Gov. Strong in 1815, upon peti- tion of Jacob Rice and tifty-threc others. For a period of about twenty-fire years it maintained its position as one of the most efBcicnt and active companies of the regiment, and it inchidcd in this time over two hundred aud fifty enlisted men, representing the best families of the town, and in some cases successive irouerations in the same line. The list of commanders is as follows: Jacob Rice, Nathan Baldwin, Erastus Tucker, Araasa Howe, Leander Fales, Joab Hapgood, AVilliam II. Knowlton, Samuel Harrington and Leander Sawyer. Shrewsbury has a handsome town hall, erected in 1872, on the site of the Old Haven Tavern, a famous resort before the era of railways. A high school was established in 1867, and there are seven common or district schools. The public lil)rary was established by the town on Jime 22, 1872, when five hundred dollars were appropriated. The library contains about fifteen hundred volumes, and is supported by the annual grant of the dog-fund and other moneys. The post-office in Shrewsbury was established in 1804, and has since been at the centre of the town, with the exception of two years, during which it was in the lower village. The following have been postmasters : Joseph Stone, Dee. 4, 1804; Calvhi R. Stone, April 2, 1816; same, Jan. 2, 1826; AV. W. Pratt, July 16, 183."); Josiah A. Brigham, Sept. 6, 1845; Thomas Lyon, June 15, 1846; Lorenzo Mayuard, June 5, 1848; Osborn Stearns, 1850; A. B. Bliss, 1852; Lozano C. Knowlton, 1855; Samuel I. Howe, Aug. 1, 1861, and is postmaster at the present lime. The church in Shrewsbury was organized soon after the settlement of the town. On Oct. 27, 1719, the proprietors of the township of Shrewsbury voted "that the place for the meeting-house be on Rocky Plain, near the pines, aud that in ease the land agreed upon could not be procured upon reasonable terms, the meeting-house be set on the hill northward therefrom, and th.it tiic meeting-house be forty feet in length, thirty-two in breadth and fourteen feet stud. In April following a committee was appointed "to manage about the Meeting-House," aud on June 22, 1720, "voted £210 for and towards building a Meeting-House, it being five pounds on each proj)rietor " ; also, "chose a com- mittee to address the Rev. Mr. Breck of Marlborough in behalf of the proprie- tors of the town of Shrewsbury praying his notes of a sermon preached by himself in said town at a lecture on the 15th June 1720 in order to have the same sermon printed at the expense of the proprietors." This was the first sermon preached in Shrewsliury. At the same meeting, also, the proprietors empowered a committee to contract with some person "to build and finish a Meeting-House." This house was proi)ably built in 1721 or 1722. The meetings of the proprietors were held at the house of the widow Eliza- 278 TOWN OF SHREWSBURY. he(h IIowc, in Miulboroiigh. In November, 1722, "on application to eTohn Ilouirliton of Lancaster, ho issued his warrant calling a meeting of the pro- prietors, to be held on the 28lh of that month, at thj Mecling-IIuuse, to consider and conclude of all, or anything, or things proper and uec<'ssary to be done for the procuring of a minister. That was the first time the meeting- house was occupied. It stood eight rods north-east of where the present Congregational church now stands. In October, ITtU, it w.is voted to build a now house, and in antici[),itioii of "the raising," which occurred on ^May 13, 17G6, the parish voted "to send to Boston for a barrel of rum." " It was at this raising that General Artemas W.nrd, then a colonel in tlie colonial militia, received the order of the governor, Sir Francis nernanl. takuig away bis com- mission ; Whereupon the late colonel, after reading the order aloud to the i)crson3 present, turned to the governor's messenger, an officer in full uniform who had ridden from Boston to serve the order, and asked Inm to take his tlianks to the governor for fnrnisliing him with evidence that be was what the governor was not, a friend to his country; and to toll him that of his honors, his commission and his removal, he regarded the second as the greater." During the year 1807, a belfr^s with steeple, was added, and a ])cll placed therein. In 1834, the house of worship was removed to its present site. The church society Avas organized on Dec. 4, 1723, and, on the same day, Mr. Job Gushing was ordained as religious teacher of the ()arish. lie was given sixty pounds "as a settlement, and sixty pounds yeaily salary for two years, thou to rise four pounds a }car until it should amount to eighty pounds a jeai." Mr. Gushing remained nntil his death in 17G0. During his ministry, cm Oct. fi, 1743, the north part of the town was incorporated as a distinct parish, and called the North Parish of Shrewsbury. It now lies in Boylston. In the year 1731, a controversy arose in regard to the principles of church government, having special reference to the appointment of ruling elder, and continued to disturb the harmony of the church for ten years or more. On Feb. 2, 17G1, Joshua Paine was invited to the pastorate of the church, and was offered an annual salary of £66 13s. and £200 settlement, both of which he declined. The ordination of Joseph Sumner occurred on Jan. 23, 1702, and "was conducted in the open air on a platform erected in front of the chm-ch, and the day observed with fasting and prayer in conformity with the vote of the church, in which the parish concurred ; 'to observe said day as a day of fasting and pra\-er, as being most agreeable to the Scripture rule of ordaining as said church apprehends.'" On Jan. 30, 1771, it was voted "that those may not be admitted to the privilege of baptism for their children concerning whom it is evident that they do not practice praying in their families"; also on Feb. 2, 1791, "voted to begin to sing Dr. Watts' version of the Psalms with Ins Hymns, provided thero be no objection lodged with the pastor from the congregation." ECCLESIASTICAL. 279 Dr. Suiuner remained with tlic eluirch until his death in 1824, and, during his pastorate of more than sixty years, one thousand two luindred and lifty-one persons were admitted to llio chni'ch by baptism, and tliree hundred and sixty- seven otherwise. Pastors: — Job Gushing, ordained on Dec. 4, 1723, died on Aug. G, 17(50; Joseph Sumner, D. D., ordained on June 23, 1762, died ou Dec. 9, 1824; Samuel B. Ingersoll, colleague of Dr. Sumner, ordained on June 14, 1820, died on Nov. 14, 1820; Edwards Whipple, second colleague of Dr. Sumner, instalKd oi Sept. 20, 1821, died on Sept. 17, 1822; George Allen, third colleague of Dr. Sumner, ordained on Nov. 19, 1823, dismissed on June 18, 1840; James Averill, ordained on Juuo 22, 1841, dismissed on Nov. 15, 1848; N. W. AVilliams, ordained on Feb. 28, 1849, dismissed on April 27, 1858 ; William A. McGinley, ordained on Juno 2, 1859, dismissed on July 27, 1865 ; E. Porter Dyer, installed ou Nov. 7, 18G7, dismissed on June 19, 1877. John L. Scudder, the present pastor, was ordained on Dec. 2G, 1877. A Baptist society was organized in Shrewsbury in 1812, and a house of wor- ship built in the following year. At its formation, the society was called the "Shicwsbnry and Boylston Baptist Society," and had thirty-three members. After a Baptist church w;is fornied in Boylston that in Shrewsbury was styled the Shrewsbury Baptist Society. Elias McGregory, the first pastor, was ordained on June 17, 1818, and dismissed in May, 1821. Samuel W. Vilas supplied the pulpit until his death on July 15, 1823. No pastor was ever settled by this s^ociety. The pulpit was supplied by Elder Luther God- dard, Dr. Jonathan Going, and others. In about the year 1836, the society disbanded as an organization, and united with the Baptist Church at New England Village, in Grafton. A socit'ty cMllcd the First Restoration Society of Shrewsbury, was formed on April 11, 1.S20, and incorporated on April 26, 1824. In 1823, a house of worship was built on the tiu'npike, a mile from the centre of the town, in what is now called South Shrewsbni-y. Jacob Wood was the first pastor. This society had a precarious existence for about ten years, and was finally dis- banded. Tiio Methodist Society in Shrewsbury had its origin in 18-15, in a class fortned b^^ the Rev. Gardner Rico. Previous to this time, there had been l)re;iching in a school-house in the western part of the town. Meetings were alterward iield in Haven Tavern until the present house of worship was erected in 1847. The first preacher of the Methodist faith in Shrewsbury was Leonard B. Giiilin. John W. Wheeler followed Mr. Rice, and he was succeeded by Jcllerson ILiscall, who remained two 3'ears. Other pastors : — D. K. Banister, 1848; David Sherman, 1850; AVilliam U. Bagnall, 1852; J. Ilascall, 1854; William Gardner, 1855; D. K. Banister, 1857; Iliram P. Satchwcll, 1859; William W. Culburn, 1861; J()se[)h W. Lewis, 18()3; Charles T. Johnson, 1865 ; John Peterson, 1867 ; William Merrill, 1869 ; J. Ilascall, 1871 ; Edwin 280 TOWN OF SHREWSBURY. S. Chase, 1871; N. Bemis, 1872; A. Caldwell, 1873; S. H. Noon, 1875; W. M. Flubbarcl, 1877 ; O. W. Adams, 1879. A Calbolic house of worship was erected in Shrewsbury in 1873, the present pastor of which is A. G. Darbuel. At this point it is proper to notice the fine old mansion still existing in the lown and known as tlie "Sumner House." This patrimonj' has been in the family ever since 17G2, when it was purchased by Rev. Josepli Sutnnor of Artcmas and Elisha Ward. Befoie this it had been occupied by Arlcmas AV.-ird (afterwards major-general), having been conveyed to him by his father, in 1753, "in consideration of his love, good will and affection to his woll- lielovcd son." Some part of the building had been used as a store. Dr. Sum- ner, on acquiring the property made many improvements, and at length erected th(^ present mansion in the year 1797. It is now in possession of Geo. Sum- ner, Esq., of Worcester, being occupied by the fourth geuei'atiou of the family. In the last war the record of the town of Shrewsbury is worthy of its citi- zens. The first "war meeting" was held on IMay 2, 1861. A commitlee was chosen "to consider and report what action the town should take in regard to the war," and it reported and advised the town "to pay to each volimteer one dollar a day for each day's drill, two days in the week for the first four weeks, and one dollar a day for one day's drill each week during the second four weeks." It was voted to appropriate two thousand dollars to purchase uniforms and equipments; also to pay each volunteer one dollar a da}- while in service, one dollar and fifty cents a week to the wife of a volunteer, and fifty cents a week to each child under fifteen years of age. On July 31, the town voted to aid families of volunteers as provided I)y law. In March, 1802, it was voted that "children who have been born to volun- teers since the time of their enlistment shall be entitled to receive the same amoimt of aid as those born previous and the selectmen be authorized to j)ay the same." On July 28 the town offered a bounty of one hundred and twent}- Hve dollars "to each of the twenty-two men called for to fill the quota of the town when mustered in to the credit of the town, and if said volunteers shall serve for two years, or die, or become disabled during the second year's ser- vice, twenty-five dollars additional to each or to his heirs." Mr. Jonathan H. Nelson offered and gave to each volunteer, ten dollars. At the same meeting it was voted to enter the names of volunteers on the records of the town. The selectmen were authorized to borrow money and a committee was appointed "to canvass the town for volunteers." On August 8, the town voted "to pay a bounty of one hundred and twenty-five di)ll:irs" to each inhal)itant of the town who shall enlist for nine months," and again the selectmen were author- ized to borrow money, and to give State aid to fimilies of nine months' volun- teers. In March, 1863, the selectmen were empowered to continue to pay State aid l%-'i%-JJ5', . ^-t -A:^' ■- ' ' OT 1> 11 )M1 STt Vl> I I MVJ GLN VKri M \'- NV M I CWheicliclncd nil 1 ) REPRESENTATIVES. 281 to tlie families of volunteers. On April 6, it was voted to appropriate three thoiisaiul five hiindred dollars " to defray the expenses of reuioving to their homos the bodies of those soldiers who have died, or may die in ihe service of the Federal Government, provided the families of the deceased request it." In 18G4, State aid was continued to families of volunteers, and on April 25, it was voted to grant seven hundred and fifty dollars " to pay l)onnties to five recruits." On August 1, the selectmen were ordered " to pay one hundred and twenly-five dollars to any person liable to a draft who furnishes a substitute " ; also "to keep on recruiling, to pay the same bounty until March 1, 18G5, and to borrow money to pay the same." At the I\Iarch meeting in 18115, the town voted State aid to families of vol- unteers, during that year as formerly. On May 29, it was voted to raise live thousand dollars by taxation wilhin three years, " to refund money con- tributed by individuals to pay bounties to volunteers during the past year and tlie selectmen be authorized to borrow the whole amount for the present." Shrewsbury furnished one hundred and seventy-seven men — a surplus of twenty over and above all demands. One was a commissioned otliccr. The amount expended for war purposes was $1G,6G3.90; and for State aid during the war, $.-),2I4.2G. In 18G9, a handsome monument, to the memory of fallen soldiers was erected on the town's common and on it is inscribed these names : — Adj. Charles G. Wood, J. J. Witherbce, M. D., Edward A. Andrews, Albert W. Carey, Horatio A. Cutting, James H. Cutting, Silas N. Carter, Hiram W. Doane, Thomas B. Eaton, Lcander Fay, Nathan B. Garlield, Charles F. Gicason, Frank L. Ilapgood, Hollis Ilolden, Amasa S. Hyde, John F. Howe, Mieiiael O'Laughlin, Alonzo B. Louks, Calvin C. Pratt, Franklin J. Perry, Alfred F. Porter, Charles F. Rice, Edward P. Richardson, George W. P). Sawyer, Elijah Smith, George E. Sprague, Henry A. Sawtelie, Jonas M. Wheeloik, WdJiam II. Wilson. Following arc the names of representatives to the General Court : — Nahum Ward, 1735, 1737, 1740; Caleb Johnson, 1711; Nahnm Ward, 1742; Caleb Johnson, 1743; Nahum Ward, 1744; John Kcycs, 174G ; Isaac Temple, 1747; Nahum AVard, 1748; Isaac Temple, 1749; Nahum Ward, 1751 ; Phincas Heywood, 1752 to 1755, inclusive ; Isaac Temple, 175G; Arte- mas Ward, 1757; Isaac Temple, 1758; Artcmas Ward, 1759 to 1770, inclu- sive; Phineas Heywood, 1771 to 1774, inclusive ; Jonas Stone, 1775, 177G, 1777 ; Charles Bowker, 1778 ; John Jlaynard, 1779 ; Ephraim Beaman, 17tO ; John Maynard, 1781; Artemas AVard, 1782; Jonas Temple, 1783; Artemas Ward, 1784, 1785, 178G ; Isaac Harrington, 1787 to 1791, inclusive; Jonah Howe, 1792 to 1807, inclusive; Vashni Hemcnway, 1808 to 1813, inclusive; Jonah Howe, 1814; Samuel Haven, 1815, 181G, 1817; Nathan Howe, 1819; Nathan Pratt, 1821; Fort. Harrington, 1822; Balch Dean, 182G; Nymphaa Pratt and Jacob Rice, 1827; Thomas ILirriugtou, 1830; Nymphas Pratt, VOL. II.— C6 282 TOWN OF SHREWSBURY. 1831, 1832; Balch Dean, 1835; Adam Harringtou and A. R. Phelps, 1838; Adam Ilaninfrton and A. R. Pliclps, 1839 ; Jul) C. Stone, 1840, 1841 ; Lucius S. Allen, 1848, 1849, 1850; Luke B. Wilherby, 1851; Adam Harrington, 1852; Leandcr Fales, 1853, Lucius S. Alien, 1854; Jonathan Nichols, 185G; Rev. Nathan W. Williams, 1858; Jonathan H. Nelson, 18G1 ; Thomas W. Ward, 18G4; Charles O. Green, 1865; Thomas Rice, Senator, 18G9 ; George H. Harlow, 1872; Oliver B. Wyman, 1877. Gen. Artemas Ward's biography is written upon his tombstone, and reads thus : — " Major Gen. Artemas Ward, son of Col. N. Ward II. U. 1718-1702 a .Justice of tlie C. C. Pleas Por the Co. of Worcester — 1778 a Major in the expedition against Canada — 1759 appointed Col. 17GG bis commission as Col. revoked for his inflexible opposition to arbitrary power, whereupon he informed the Ryyal Gov. that be bad been twice hon- ored — 1 7G8 chosen one of the executive council and by the same Royal Gov. and for the same reason negatived and deprived of a scat at the Board — 1775 appointed to ibe command of the army at Cambridge and by the Continental Congress first Major Gen. of the Aimy of the Revolution — 1 779 appointed a member of the Continental Congress, and under the Pedoral Government repeatedly elected 1 G years a Representative of this town in Legislature & in 1786, Speaker of the house of Representatives. " Pirraness of mind & integrity of purpose Were characteristic of his whole life, so that he was never swajxd by the applause, or censure of man, but ever acted under a deop sense of duty to his country and aceountabilit}' to his God. Long will liis memor}' be precious among the friends of liberty & religion. Oct. 27, 1800 JE 78." Calvin Goddard, M. C. 1801 to 1805, and seventeen years maj'or of the city of Norwich, Connecticut, was horn in Shrewsbury on July 17, 17G8, and died on jNIay 2, 1842. He was a judge of the Supreme Court (jf Connecticut, and member of the Hartford Convention in 1814. Job Gushing, son of Rev. Job Gushing, the first settled minister in town, was born in Shrcwsbur}' Jan. 1, 1728. In April, 1775, ho marched to Lexington at the head of a company of minute-men ; was captain in Col. John Ward's regiment, in 1776; then major. Sixth Worcester regiment; then colonel of the same. He was both at Bennington and the surrender of Biirgoync. Before the war he kept an inn on the site of the present town hall, and after the re- turn of peace, when he opened a tavern called the "American Arms." Ho died April 16, 1808, aged eighty years. Austin Flint, son of Dr. Edward Flint, was born here, Jan. 4, 1760. He studied medicine with his father, and in after life became eminent in this pro- fession. He enlisted and marched to Bennington Aug. 16, 1777, after which action he remained with the arm}' in the region of the Hudson till after the sur- render of Burgo^ne. Later, he was again in service, being found at West Point in 1781. He afterwards dwelt in the town of Leicester, married and reared a successful family, and died there, Aug. 29, 1850, aged ninety years. Levi Pease is also to be noticed as the pioneer in the stage enterprise in New STATISTICS. 283 Englaiul. He staiteil the first Hue between Boston and ILiitford, and was for u long time the only contractor for mail-carriage known or respon5il)le to the government for that duty. He bad been connected, while yet young, with the commissar^' department of the army; and in later life he kept a tavern in Shrcwsbur}', where be was active till his death, Jan. 24, 1824, aged eighty- four years. The town of Shrewsbury furnished one full-commissioned olTicer in the French war; one major-general in the Revolution ; a meml)cr of tiie Executive (^^ouncil and Speaker of the House of Representatives ; one Judge of Probate ; two Judges of the Court of Common Pleas of Worcester County ; two Repre- sentatives to Congress, and one High Shorill' of Worcester County. Statistics:— Population, 1820, 1,458; 1830, 1,350; 1840, 1,4S1; 1850, 1,623; 1875, 1,524; polls, 430; families, 377 ; dwellings, 332; farms, 158; acres cultivated, 3,4G9 ; acreage of farms, 10,420; cows, 780; sheep, 49; horses 330 ; value of farm products, $1(31), 302 ; value of farm propert}-, $074,- 872 ; capital invested in manufactures, $420,400 value of products of miinu- faetures $401,732; total products, $628,034; value of personal estate, $343,- 020; value of real estate, $700,110; total valuation, $1,109,130; rate of tax- ation $6.50 per $1,000. 284 TOWN OF SOUTHBOROUGH. S O U T II B O R O TJ G H BY DEXTER NEWTON, ESQ. CHAPTER I. LOCATION AND INCOKrOHATIOX SOIL AND SUUFACE WATERS WAYS PKODUCTIONS AGRICULTURE — MANUFACTURES AND MECHANICAL INDUS- TRIES. This town is situated in the extreme easterly part of Worcester Coiintv, a'loiit twenty-eight miles from the State Iloiise, and about sixteen miles from the Court House in Worcester. The Town House in S()utli])orough is located at a bearing of about 7° 5' south of duo west from the State House. The town is skirted on three sides by jMiddlcsox County. It has j\Iarlborough on the north, Framingham and Ashland on the cast, Ashland and Hopkinton on tlic south, Westborough and Northborongb on the west. Ftjrmerly most of the town of Sonthborough belonged to jMarlborongh, and was then called "Stony Brook," probably so named from a stream of water which still bears that name. That part which lies north of Stony Brook was ules, and other buildings. This thriv- ing village he named Cordaville, in honor of his wife, Cordelia. The same factory was burnt October 31st, 1855. Two persons lost their lives in conse- quence of the fire, and others were injured. On the s;une spot he erected the l)rescnt stone factory. He manufactured very extensively various kinds of cotton and woolen fabrics, and jute blankets. lie became very wealthy. In 1864 he sold the real and personal proi)orty to a slock company, called the "Cordaville Mills Company," Franklin Haven, Esq., being president, John II. Stevenson, Esq., treasurer, and Judge Thomas Russell, clerk. In 1871 said 288 TOWN OF SOUTHBOROUGII. property was sokl, by auction, to Adolphus Merriara, Esq., of Fraininghain. For some years large quantities of goods were there manufactured by Mcrriain tor. Ho was dismissed at his own request in 1832. The First Parish Society after- wards settled Rev. John D. Sweet, Rev. "William Lord, Rev. Mr. Aldon, and Rev. i\Ir. Barnard. The salary first paid to Mr. Stone was £120 or $400, and thirty cords of good wood. In 1734 his salary was raised to £150, and thirty cords of good wood. Only one religious society existed in town until 1825. The Baptist society have settled Rev. Jonathan Forbush, Rev. Abiasaph Sampson, Rev. W. Morse, Rev. Aaron Ilaynes, Rev, 51. Ball, Rev. John Aldcn. They have had several acting pastors, the present one being Rev. W. K. Davey. The Pdgrim Evangelical Society was organized Feb. 17, 1831, and have settled Rev. Walter Follett, Rev. Jacob Cummings, Rev. E. M. Elwood, Rev. G. D. Bates, Rev. W. J. Breed, Rev. John Colby, and Rev. H. M. Holmes. Rev. Alanson Rawsou was acting pastor from April 28, 1843, to April 2, 1852. Rev. Andrew Bigelow, D. D., was acting pastor from April 1, 1874, to April 1, 1875. The Episcopal Society have had for rectors. Rev. Charles Wingate, Rev. A. C. Patterson, Rev. R. Lowell, and Rev. J. I. T. Cooiidge, D. D. The Second Congregalional Society have settled Rev. C. A. Stone, and have now for acting pastor Rev. John Le Bo^quett. The first appropriation made by Southborough fur teachers, was in 1732 ; viz., to Timothy Johnson, six pounds ; and to Samuel Bellows, four pounds ten shillings. Subsequently, for several years, Solomon Ward was employed to teach in rotation the four schools located in different sections of the town. Southborough maintained but four schools until 1837. The citizens of South- borough have ever manifested a great interest in education. lu 1859, Henry H. Peters, Esq., a wealthy citizen, feeling a deep interest in SCHOOLS AND SCHOOL-HOUSES. 291 the cLlucation of the youth, and haviiij^ a desire that the scholars of South- boroui^h should have as good advautagcs for obtaining an education as was enjoyed by the scholars in the neighboring towns, donated the present high school house, nicely finished and furnished, and the land connected therewith, to the town, ou condition that it should be used for a high school, to be taught by a master qualified to teach the branches usually taught in a high school, and be kept at least eight months in eath year. The town accepted the very liberal donation at a regular town meeting; and us a token of their appreciation of bis generosity, they directed that it be culled the "Peters High School house." The citizens, generally, have manifested great sutisfiiction with the good results of the school. They have been willing to ai)[)ropriate a liberal sum, yearly, for the support of this as well as for the other nine schools. The school com- mittee, in 1S78, expended for schools, $5,854. lu 1852 a public free library was established. The opening of the same was properly celebrated. A public meeting was held in the Town Hall, February 12. The occasion was enlivened by speeches, songs, and music. A. L. Hobart, JM. D., of Southborough, made the principal address. The following extract from his address will quite fully explain the character of the preliminary measures iucident to its establishment: " Col. Francis B. Fay, in the fullness of his soul and the liberality of his spirit, conceived in his heart to do a good thing unto the inhabitants of the good old town of Southborough, which gave him birth ; and so, unsolicited, and of his own good-will and ploasurc, he thrust his hand deep into his pocket, and drawing forth five hundred pieces of silver (S500). held them up before the eyes of the inhabitants of this town, while he thus spoke : ' Fellow-citizens ! FcUow-lownsmcn ! I was born, and nurtured, and rocked, and reared in jour midst, I am one of you, and j-ou are dear unto me. And now as yoa arc dear unto me, and as my heart and ray band are drawn towards you iu affection, and as the enlightenment and elevation of your minds are things near my heart; therefore, if all together, or any one of j-ou, will give a like sum, I will give these five hundred pieces of silver to form the nucleus of a Town Library, which shall be free for all the inhabitants of the town, to use for their improvement, and for their children's children forever.' The town appropriated the other five hundred dollars, and directed that as a token of their esteem for the generous donor, it should be called the * Fay Library.' " In 1870, April 20, Col. F.ay donated to the town the additional sum of one thousand dollars, for the benefit of the library. There is now a fund of fifteen hundred dollars in the hands of the trustees of the library ; the interest of which, with various other items contributed and appropriated, enable the trustees to expend about $200 annually for books. There are now iu the library 3,901 volumes. The people of Southborough have great cause to hold iu fond remembrance the names of the aforesaid donors ; and, not only we, but in future years, full many a son and daughter who shall inhabit this laud, read books, and learn iu this school, — looking back, perhaps, through time's long vista, will also cxultingly claim these donors as their immortal benefactors. In 292 TOWN OF SOUTHBOROUGH. 1805 the St. JIarkV School was incorporated uiulcr the laws of the Commou- wcallh, ami was founded for the classical education of hoys. Its course of studies is prepared with (he purpose of giving a thorough prep- aration for admission to the univcrsaties and colleges of the country. It is a school of the Episcopal Church, and its order and management are in conform- ity with the principals and spirit of the church. Its scholars number about fifty and are required to l)oard at the institution. It is said to be one of the most thorough and best disciplined suhools in the State. The establishment of this school and the erection of the beautiful Episcopal church are the results of the great enterprise and perseverance of our honored and esteemed fellow- citizen, Dr. Joseph Burnett. The beautiful appearance of the centre village is largely due to his benevolence, influence and taste. In 1840, the town built its first town house. Previous to that time the town meetings were held in the church of the First Parish Society-. Said town house cost about $4,000. It was burnt in 18G9. Without delay the inhabitants proceeded to erect another. The present handsome, substantial and commodious brick town house was built in 18()9-70, at a cost, including fixtures and furniture, of about $30,000. The building commiltee, consisting of Dr. J()sei)h Burnett, Dexter Newton, Dr. J. Henry Robinson, Franklin Este and Curtis Ilyde, delivered the keys thereof to the selectmen A|)ril 20, 1870. In 1824, the young men organized a lyceum. Hon. Francis B. Fay was picsident of the same for sev- eral years. This is said to be one of the first l3ceums ever formed in this vicinity. One of the most exciting debates participated in by the then young America, was "Is an untruth ever justifiable?" Disputants appointed iu the affirmative Avere Peter Fay and Blake Parker; negative Joel Burnett and Brigham Witherbee. The discussion waxed warm. T[)e disputants, pro and con, fought the battle inch by inch during the allotted time. Question w;is finally decided on its merits, in the negative. This Ivceum accomplished much good. Another lyccnm was formed in 1842. Its members at one time niunbered forty-four. Many momentous (]uestions were considered. Interesting and instructive free lectures through their exertion were furnished to the public. Southborough has raised many nolde men and women. Several distinguished scholars. The following is a list of those reared in town, who have availed themselves of the benefits of a college education; viz., Jeroboam Parker, graduated at Harvard in 1797, bccamea minister; Nathan Johnson, graduated at Yale in 1802, Judge of Court of Common Pleas; Sherman Johnson, gradu- ated at Yale in 1802, minister; Luther Angier, graduated at Amherst in 1833, minister; Marshall B. Angier, graduated at Yale in 1834, minister; Henry M. Parker, graduated at Harvard in 1839, teacher; Joel Burnett, grad- uated at Harvard Medical in , physician ; Waldo I. Burnett, graduated at Harvard Medical in 1849, naturalist; Edward Burnett, graduated at Harvard in 1871, farmer; Harry Burnett, graduated at Harvard iu 1873, chemist; DISTINGUISHED MEN. 293 Waldo Burnett, graduatccl at Harvard in 1875, student; Clarence Thompson, graduated at Amherst in 1874, civil engineer ; George E. Brewer, graduated at Amlierst in 1874, teacher. Jcrolioani Parker, mentioned above, was for many years the minister in Si)uthl)or()Ugh. Joel Burnett was a noted physician in the town, was particu- larly interested in her schools, and was greatly honored and respected. His son, Waldo I. Burnett, was a zealous student, and became a distinguished nat- uralist. By the Boston Society of Natunil History he was elected curator of entomology. In successive years he gained many of the prizes offered by said society. In the winter of 1851, he delivered at the Medical College in Augusta, Ga., a course of lectures in microscopic anatomy. In 1852, he pre- l)ared the essay which received the prize from the American Medical Associa- tion, lie died of consumption July 1, 1854, in the 2Glh year of his age. From an address concerning his life and writings, delivered before the Boston Society of Natural History, July 19, 1854, by Dr. Jeffries Wyraan, is taken the following extract : " W'e cannot but sensibly feel that in his death we have lost an associate of no ordinary talents ; we can point to no other member of our society, and not more than one other naturalist in our country who has given such proofs of zeal and industry, and who, in so short a life, has accom- plished so large an amount of scientific labor. Had he been spared to future years, we cannot but feel the assurance that he would have acquired for him- self a far higher place and a still more honorable name in the annals of science. Let us cherish his memory and profit by his example." The records of the town show that the people have alwa^'s taken a forward rauk in the cause of freedom. Capt. John Taplin went in command of a company of forty-nine men on the Crown Point Expedition in 175G ; was out from February 18 to December 20. (?apt. Aaron Fay conmianded a company sent fur the reduction of Canada, and was out from ISIarch to November, 1758. Capt. John Ta|)lin Avas also out in this campaign. A number of Southbor- ough men were out in all the campaigns of the last French and Indian war. Dilenton Johnson was at Fort William Henry when it capitulated, Aug. 9, 1757, and was exposed to the Indian barbarities of that terrible day. Elijah Keed and Joshua Newton also of Southborough, were in that battle. In 17(55, in town meeting, the following unanimous vote of instruction was given to their representative, Ezra Taylor, Esq. : "That you would in the most effectual and loyal manner firmly assert anrl lawfully maintain the inhe- rent rights of the Province, that posterity may know that if we must be slaves we do not choose b}- our own acts to destroy ourselves and willingly entail slavery on them." Capt. Josiah Fay's company of fiftj'-six minute-men, who wore disciplined and supi)orted at the expense of the town, marched to Lexington and Concord, April 19, 1775. Every able-bodied male citizen sixteen years old and upward 204 . TOWN OF SOUTIIBOROUGH. was armed according to law. They were required to bo in constant readiness to repel any attack of the cnemj'. In town meeting April 29, LSGl, on motion of Sylvester C. Fay, I'^sq., it was voted mianimoiisly "that the town is ready to respond to the proclamations of the President with every able-bodied citizen and every dollar, if necessary." The town furnished two hundred and nine- teen brave and patriotic men — being thirty-three more than enough to fill lier quota under every call of the President during the great Rebellion. Seventeen of those men died in the service of their coinitrj", and these names appear on the beautiful monument erected to their memory. Said monument, erected on the common in Southborongh Centre, is of Fitzwilliam granite, and was built by E. F. Meany of Boston, from a design of A. R. Esty, Esq. It was dedi- cated Jan. 1st, 1807. It is twenty feet high. On the south (front) side are inscribed the words "Erected by the Citizens of Southborongh"; ou the east "In Memoriam"; on the north "Our Country's Defenders" ; and on the west "Rebellion, 1861." " Patiiots arc here in freedom's battle slain, Men whose short lives were closed with scarce a stain ; Men, lovers of our race, whoso labors gavo Their names a memory that defies the grave." This monument cost SljGlS./iO, and was paid for mostly by subscription. Some of the money, however, was contributed by various asseml)lies and socie- ties. Henry II. Peters, Esq., subscribed $500; Dr. Joseph Burnett, $100 ; Curtis Newton, E. D. Rockwood, Peter Fay and S. N. Thompson each $25, and ninety-two other persons contributed smaller sums. This town has a very perfect record of her soldiers who enlisted in the late war. To "William P. Willson, Esq., great credit is due for his alacrity and perseverance in its preparation and completion. FOEMATION OF THE TOWX. 295 SOUTHBRIDGE. BY REY. ABIJAH P. MARVIN. CHAPTER I. FORMATION OF THE TOWN — PHYSICAL ASPECTS — INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT — WATER-POWER MEETING-HOUSES AND PARISHES CONGREGATION.VL SOCI- ETY PASTORAL LIST BAPTIST SOCIETY MANUFACTURES. The town of Southbridge was taken from the towns of Charlton, Dudley and Stnrhridgc, and was incorporated in 181G. The hirger part of the tract north of the Qiiinchaug formerly belonged to Charlton. The part south of the river was divided nearly in half by the two latter towns. The inhabitants, in early times, were obliged to go long distances to attend public worship and town meetings. Belonging to different municipalities and religious societies, they had but slight bonds of union before the time when the mills on the Qninebaug began to form a centre of business. The town is bounded as follows: On the north by Charlton, on the cast by Charlton and Dudley, on the south by AVoodstock, and on the west by Sturbridge. The centre of the town is in latitude -12° 5', and the distance from the court-house in Worcester is seventeen and one-half miles. Formerly the great route of travel from Worcester to the south-west was through Charlton and Sturbridge. After 1825 it Avent through Southbridge. The connection with the shire town is now by the New England Railroad to Webster, and thence l)y the Norwich and Worcester line. There is direct railway connection with Boston through AVelister, Blackstoue, &c., by the New England Railway. Like other towns formed since the early settlements were made, Southbridge is conii)arativcly small in size and irregular in shape. The southern line is straight, being on the Connecticut border. The lines between Sturbridge, Cliarlton and Dudie^^ are run to suit individual convenience, to some extent, and are therefore angular. The number of square miles in the town is about nineteen, and the number of acres is twelve thousand two hundred and eleven. The surface of the town is much broken by hills and valleys. The hills rise 296 TOWN OF SOUTIIBRIDGE. nortlnvarcl and southward from the valley of Qiiincbaug River, some of them gradually and some with abrupt and rugged sides. Hatchet Ilill is a thou- sand and sixteen feet above the level of the sea, and the summit furnishes an extensive prospect. The main river is the Quinebaug, which comes in from Stnrbridge on the west, and runs across the township north of the middle iu an easterly and south-easterly course. The river is fed 1)3- Globe, Cady and McKinstrey brooks on the north, and ILitchet, Cohasse and Lebanon brooks on the south, all of which empty within the limits of the town. The valley's of these streams greatly diversif}' the scenery. A traveler ascending by the banks of the river seems to bo entering a cul-de-sac until he emerges on the west. The bed of the river below the Globe Village Pond appears like a deep gorge, with the northern and southern horizon shut out from view. But plateaus and gently rising grounds on the south, furnish sites for the villages of Southbridgo and Globe Village. From the lofty hill at the north of Globe Village one can look down on a hive of industry, and see nearly every factory and church and dwelling in Soutlibridgo Centre and Globe Village, which, by gradual aj)- proach, now form one large and nourishing town. As stated above, the territory now comprised in (ho bounds of Southbridge Avas occupied by settlers long before the time of its incorporation. The settlers were generally farmers, but there were men engaged in other industries than cultivating the land, as there must be iu all communities. As earl}' as 17,53, November 29, it was voted to give Moses Jlarcy lifty acres of land, on condi- tion of his setting up a grist-mill. The Marcy family' was prominent in Charlton, and took a leading part in the organization of Southbridge. The Ilcni. William L. Slarcy, Governor of New York, and Secretary of State under President Pierce, was a member of this family. It appears that a meeting-house was built in 1797, but it belonged to persons of various denominations. Congregationalists, Baptists, Methodists and Universalists were joint-owners. In 1801 a "Poll Parish," as it was styled, was incorporated. This was iu distinction from a territorial parish, which included all the inhal)itauts within certain bounds. A poll parish included only those who joined it. This was the nucleus of a town, as about ninety persons, with their families, formed a distinct organization called the Second Religious Society in Chariton. They became accustomed, in this way, to associate together, and thus were led into the further union of a town organization. For some cause unknown to outsiders, this section was named HoncHt Town. The Congregational Church, styled the Second Congregational Church of Charlton, was formed in 1801, Scptemljcr 16, with twenty-one members, — eight men and thirteen women. They made use of the meeting-house, and, as those who sympathized with them were more numerous than the members of any other denoniination, had a prf)portionatc share of induence in supplying the pulpit. During sixteen years there were seventy-four ministers on tho REMARKABLE GROWTH. 297 ground in succession. This was continued until 1816, ■when the other denomi- niuious united iind bought the right and interest of the Congregationalists in tlic meeting-house. At this time the Congregationalists began holding public worship by themselves, and on the IGlh of December, 181G, the Rev. Jason Park was ordained as first pastor of the church. The other denomina- tions held the meeting-house in common several jears longer. The name of the church was now changed to Congiegatioual Church of Southbridge. Ser- vices were held four or five years previous to 1822 in a hall in the house built for a parsonage and place of worship. As late as 1811 there were on the site of the present village of Southbridge only a few dwelling-houses and the small meeting-house above mentioned. In 1820, four j'ears after the incorporation of the town, the population was only one fhoiisand and si.\t3'-six, and this was scattered over the whole township. From that date the increase of population has been steady, in consequence of the use made of the great water-power furnished by the Quinebang. By means of dams and reservoirs a steady flow is secured through the season. Natural ponds have been raised, so that their storage of water is greatly increased. Tiie lowlands in Holland, Wales and other towns have been flooded, and thus made tiil)utary to the industry of the people living on the banks of the river, through Sturbridgc, Southbridge and Dudley, as well as towns in Connecticut. In old times the river would sometimes become so low in dry seasons that it would hardly turn the wheel of a grist-mill part of the day, whereas now some of the largest establishments in the county have an imfailing supply of water-power. The use of this power by skill and industry has built n[) several villages, the most important of which is Southbridge, including its neighboring or consolidated community, Globe Village. The development of business on that part of the river within the bounds of Southbridge will be treated on subsequent pages. This town, on account of its comparativelj' recent origin, has no municipal history in connection with the old Indian and French wars, nor with the heroic strife and sacrifice of the Revolution ; but the fathers of the town were descended from those who had borne the strain and trial of all the conflicts through which the colonists had passed in preceding generations. Many men living on this soil when it belonged to the mother-towns were in the battles of King George's wars, 1745-G3, and in the battles of the War of Independence ; but their names are on the nmster-rolls as part of the quota of Charlton, Dudley and Sturbridgc. It will be convenient to divide the religions history of Southbridge into two parts, havir.g some regard to the order of time. The lirst part will bring the notices of the Orthodox and Baptist churches down to a comi)arativcl\- recent date. A sketch of the rise and increase of business in the town will follow, after which the ecclesiastical narrative will be resumed. The house of worship used by the Congregational Church was erected in VOL. 11.— 53 298 TOWN OF SOUTIIBRIDGE. 1821, and Jedicatecl Jan. 1, 1822. A small fiinil had been provided for the church at an earlier date, the income of which hud been used for the support of preaching. This fund was now applied to the building of the new sanctuary. When dedicated, the sermon was preached by the Rev. Jason Park, the pastor of the church. The house was Tcmodeled in 1830, and dedicated anew, Sep- tember 5, when Eev. Eber Carpenter, the pastor, delivered a sermon, and au original hymn, written by Jlrs. Sigourney, was sung. The house was again remodeled, and re-dedicated Sept. 24, 186i). The sermon was delivered by Rev. E. L. Jaggar, pastor from ISGU to 1872. It is said that the house occupied by Dr. Ilartwell, where the meetings of this church were Ih-st held, was built by Major Calvin Ammidown, in behalf of the society, its design !)eing to furnish a parsonage and a temporary hall for meetings. The present meeting-house is well filled, and a need is beginning to be felt for a larger audience-room. Tlic pastors since the dismission of Mr. Park have been as follows : Rev. Ilein-y J. Lamb, ordained June 0, 1833, and dismissed April 25, 1835. The Rev. Eber Carpenter was installed July 21, 1835, and dismissed July 21, 18G-1:. On account of impaired health, Mv. Carpenter was released from pastoral duties from 1853 to 1857. The installation of his successor, Rev. Edwin B. Palmer, took place Dec. 27, 18G4, and, after n pastorate of about four and a haU'3'ears, he was dismissed, May 3, 18G9. Rev. E. L. Jaggar was installed Oct. It, 18G9, and dismissed Aug. G, 1872. The settled ministry of Rev. J. E. Fuller- ton began July 22, 1873, and terminated Oct.. 31, 187G. The present pastor. Rev. Joseph Danielson, was installed Jime G, 1877. The following members have been deacons: Asa "Walker and Daniel Morse, both elected in 1801 ; Jason Morse, George Sumner, Henry Ilaynes, Josiah Hayward, Elbridge G. Harding, Jonathan Cutting, and Samuel L. Morse. The present deacons are Samuel M. Lane, elected in 1851, and AVilliam P. Plimp- ton, in 1875. The superintendent of the Sabbath school is C. D. jMunroe. A few lines taken from the Covenant, used at the organization of the church, will give the fimdamental basis which they hold in common with all Evangelical Christians : "We, the members of this church, do acknowledge and assert the Lord Jehovah — Father, Son, and Holy Ghost — as the only true God, the foun- tain of our being, and the source of our happiness ; and devote ourselves to Him in the bonds of an everlasting covenant, to serve and glorify Him supremely. We do acknowledge and profess that the salvation of man is wholly from the free, unmerited grace of God, and is the result of sincere repentance of sin, .and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and that these graces are wrought in the soul by the ' Spirit of God.' " Six hundred and fiftv-two persons have been members of the church, by confession or by letter. The present membership is a little over two hundred. The Baptists in Southbridge were joint owners of the old "Poll Parish" meeting-house, above mentioned. Services were held in it occasionally b^- the Baptists, according to their right in the house. In 181 G the town was incor- ECCLESIASTICAL NOTES. 299 ponitctl, and, as stated before, the Second Congregational Church of Charlton changed into the Congregational Church of Sonthbridge. The " Congregational Religious Society of Sonthbridge," acting with the Congregational Church, was incorporated l)y act of tiic Legislature, Dec. 13, 1816. In connection with these changes, and perhaps growing out of them, the Baptists lield a meeting. May 1, 181(), in the hall of Ammidown Hotel, for the purpose of organization, A constitution was adopted for the "First Baptist Society in Southbridge." One hundred and twenty-three persons signed the constitution. A council was held, Jan. 28, 1817, by whom a Baptist Church was recognized, consisting of twent3--six members. The Congregalionalists having sold out their interest iu the old meeting-house to the Baptists, Methodists, and Uuiversalists, the Bap- tists now held their meetings iu it, though the Universalists occasionally used it for public worship. The first Baptist minister was the Rev. George Angell, whose salary was three hundred dollars per annum and firewood. His pas- torate was closed by his decease, Feb. 18, 1827. His ministry was successful in strengthening the church. In INIarch, 1823, the society was organized under an act of the Legislature, by which it was incorporated. A new bell was pur- chased the same year. The Rev. Addison Parker, his successor, was ordained Aug. 18, 1827, and remained till December, 1832, when he was regularly dis- missed, and became the pastor of the church in Sturbridge. He was followed by Rev. David C. Bollos, who was installed May 12, 1833, and remained two years. In 1837 the meeling-house became the sole property of the Baptist Societ}', the interest of the other joint owners having been purchased. The house was repaired at an expense of $1,415. The interior was arranged in accordance with the modern style, and slips took the place of the old-fashioned square pews. The deeds of the pews " limited the kind of preaching, and declared that it shall be of the same belief and practice as the Baptist in olden times." The Rev. Joseph G. Binucy was installed Aug. 23, 1837, and continued two years, when the state of his health required a dissolution of the pastoral relation. He has since become well known in connection with the very prosperous Baptist mission iu Burmah. In 1837 the Rev. Scwall S. Cutting became the fifth pastor of the church. Four years later the proprietors of the meeting-house organized themselves into a corporation, which took the title of the " Sonthbridge Baptist Meeting-IIonso Association." This action was followed by the organization of a new church, under the name of the "Central Baptist Church," in 1842. This was eflected by the withdrawal of a majority of the members of the old church, who united in forming the new church. The matter of recognizing the enterprise was rel'erred to a council, before whom the old church came and presented their objections. After hearing the committee, the council deemed it expedient to recognize the new church. This was on tlie 1 2th of October, 1842. The Rev. Mr. Cutting, whose sympathies were with the new organization, received an invitation to become the pastor. lie was released from the First Church, and became the first pastor of the new church. 300 TOWN OF SOUTIIDRIDGE. The First Church then called the Rev. C. P. Gro&vcnor to be their minister. However, according to ii statement in the " Southbridge Journal," "the work of sustaining two liaptist churches was too much of a tax, and the old church succumbed to its lively rival, some of the meini)crs going into that, and others to the Methodist and Congregational churches. The society remained un- changed," and uow the First Baptist Society and the Central Baptist Church work together in harmony. -Mr. Cutting remained the pastor until Jiuic, 184'), when he resigned. Since then he has been prominent, in the denomination to which he belongs, as an editor of Baptist periodicals, as a college professor, and as Secretary of the Baptist llomc Missionary Society. The llcv. Timothy G. Freeman was the second minister of the Central Church, but remained only two jx-ars, when he was succeeded by Rev. O. S. Stearns, who was ordained in May, 1847. In 1848, (he old mccling-house was sold, and a new one erected. This was con- sumed in 18G3, when a fire destroyed it, the original meeting-house, and other property. In 1804 the present brick house was erected, at the cost of $20,000. It is considered the best edilice devoted to religious uses in the town. i\Ir. Stearns took his dismission in 18.54, and has since been honorably known as one of the professors in the Baptist Theological Seminary at Newton. He was followed l)y Rev. S. S. Parker, whose pastorate continued thirteen years. Tlie Rev. B. F. Bronsou succeeded him in 18G7, and continued till 1873, when Rev. II. II. Rhees was called to the pastoral office. In 1877, Aug. 1, Rev. A. G. Upham, the present pastor, was ordained and installed. The ministers of the two Baptist churches ai)pL'ar to have been superior men, and some of them arc well known and respected beyond denominational bounds. The society is large at present, and connected with it are many influential citizens. The deacons of the first church were Thompson Kimbcrl}-, Cyrus Ammidown, Joshua Vinton, Samuel Fisk, Elisha Cole, and Marvin Cheney. The deacons of the Central Church have been Marvin Chenev, Henry Fiske, Adoniram Coombs, Charles E. Steward, and Alpha M. Cheney. The superintendent of the Sabbath school is Mr. E. G. Guy. The beginnings of mechanical and manufacturing business in Southbridge were small, and the}' have grown to their present gigantic proportions by degrees. Passing by the saw and grist mills, which, as a necessity here, as elsewhere, liad been set up in the early days of the settlement, it appears that John Gray was a clothier, in what is now Southbridge, as early as 1790. Deacon George Sumner was in the same business in 1802. He manufactured the first wool into fabrics, designed for sale, in the year 1811. Previous to this, his business had been that usual with clothiers — that is, the dressing of cloth woven by women in their hand-looms. At this time, 1811-12, there were a few dwelling- houses in Southbridge Centre, a small meeting-house belonging to tlie poll parish, and a sparse population. Globe Village was a thing of the future. There was a buryiug-yard, and some attention had been given to the opening FACTORIES AND MILLS. 301 and improvement of (he roads. In 1813 the cotton business was started by "William Sumner. A cotton factory, on a small scale comparatively, was erected. This establishment, enlarged somewhat when Deacon Sumner left it in 1814, was owned by several men, who formed a new manufacturini; compan3\ They bought of the heirs of Capt. Marcy one-half of the water-power, includ- ing the power on the west end of the dam, where the old mills of Col. Moses Marcy had stood. This company bore the name of the Charlton Manufac- turing Company for a year or two, but in June, 181G, was incorporated as the Southbridge Factory Compan3\ This company failed in 1818, and the property returned to the Marcy estate. IMany parties occupied this property in succession, initil Ebenezcr Ainmidowu came into possession, and, about 183G, organized the Central Cotton iMills Company. By various changes, which it would be tedious to dcsciil)e, the property was conveyed from the Dresser IManufactnring Company to the Central Manufacturing Company, which was incorporated in 1837, and authorized to hold real estate to the amount of $7."), 000, and personal estate not exceeding $150,000 in value. The company was organized with a capital of $GO,000. In 1845 it was re-organ- izcd, with a capital increased to $80,000, when E. D. Ammidown was chosen agent; C. A. Dresser, superintendent; and JNIanning Leonard, clerk. The whole property was sold to Messrs. Dresser and Leonard in 1858. By a re-organization, in 1803, the whole estate was convej-ed by them to the Central Mills Company. The mill now has about six thousand six hundred spindles, and one hundred and fifty looms. The water-power is nearly twenfy- ninc feet fall. The Dresser mill, or cotton mill, of Calvin A. Paige, was on the Marcy estate, and the principal owner was William Sumner. This property passed through many hands, including Linus Child and Alexander DeWitt. The paid capital was $3G,000. The product was light-wcigiit sheeting. The mill was burned several years since. The cotton manufacturing business Avas commenced in what is now known as Globe Village in 1814, when the Globe Manufacturing Company was iucorpoi'ated. They were authorized to make " cotton and woolen cloth and yarn." The corporators were Thomas Upham, David Fiske, and their asso- ciates. James and P. B. "Wolcott had much to do in originating this business. The history of the works on the site of this company is too complicated for a mere historical sketch ; but a brief statement may be acceptable. The com- p.iny built a largo mill i;i 1814, known as the Globe Mill. In 181G the brothers Wolcott and S. A. Graves formed a new company for the manufac- ture of woolen products. The Wolcott Woolen Manufacturing Company was incorporated in 1820, with a capital of $50,000. The Wolcott Brick Mill was built in 1823. The power broad-loom, for weaving broadcloths, was intro- duced in 1824. The breaking down of the big dam, and other losses, crippled the company, and in 1831 the Hamilton Woolen Company was incorporated, 302 TOWN OF SOUTIIBRIDGE. with a capital of $200,000. Tliis company has built and cnlariicd mills on a great scale, and has done an immense business. It is classed with the largest establishments in the State. This is the company that established an excellent library for the use of persons in their employ, and erected a church, costing $20,000, in 18G8, fcjr the accommodatiou of the religious society, or Free Evangelical Church, in the village. A brick mill was built in 183V-8. This was burned in 1850. It was built anew, and now the company own and use several four and live-story brick buildings, in which arc made the celebrated Hamilton dchiines, worsted dress goods, prints, and cassimeres. The capital of the company is $600,000. The president is John R. Barnes; treasurer, Joshua Ballard; agent, John Tatterson ; superintendent, Lewis II. Hunt. The Columbian Company was formed in 1821, and was burnt out in 1844. This was a cotton mill. The property has had several owners, !)ut in the year 18GG was sold to Henry T. Grant, of Providence. He erected an additional mill, for making print-cloths. The weekly product in 187-4 was twcntj--four thousand yards. The Ashland mills were built in 1843, by Lurkiu Ammidown. Tlii-; estab- lishment M'as at Saundcrsdale. It was burnt in 181!); but, previous to this time, as early as 1834, the Quincbaug River and Lebiinon Hill Brook had been raised by a dam. Dillerent parties succeeded to the business done here, until 1847, when the village was known as Ashland. In 18G4 the property was purchased by James Saunders, of Providence, and the place is known as Saundcrsdale. Extensive l)uildings of brick for print-works were erected in 18G7-9, but depression in printing business made the investment unprofitable. The property was sold to Earl P. Mason, of Providence. It is now leased to T. & J. II. Saunders, who are making prints of superior style and (juality, which find a ready sale in the market. The American Optical Company commenced operations in ISGD. It has grown from small beginnings to the largest establishment of the kind in the United States. The following are the names of its oiEcers : President, Robert II. Cole ; secretary, C. S. Edmonds ; treasurer, E. j\I. Colo. At first, the capital was $40,000 ; it is now $(;0,000. In 1872 a new building was erected, at a cost of $35,000. The business was originated by AVilliam Belcher, a skilful mechanic, with a rare inventive genius. The glasses arc growing in popularity, and the business has steadily increased. Gold, silver, and steel, as well as rubber, are used for bows, and the workmanship is excel- lent. This business adds much to the prosperity of the town, as it employs many ingenious and intelligent men, besides adding to the wealth of the community. Banks and other associations will be noticed on a subsequent page. SOUTH II ItllXi LATER DENOMINATIONS. 303 CHAPTER II. METHODIST SOCIETY UNIVERSALISTS CATHOLICS FUEE CllUnCII EDUCA- TION PUBLIC LIBRARY LOCAL PRESS THE CIVIL WAR BANKS AND SO- CIETIES NOTABLE BIOGRAPHIES. Resujiixg the ecclesiastical history, wc find there was Methodist prcacliing in the limits of Soiithbridge, as it now exists, as early as the year 1801. When the poll parish was organized, there were Methodists among the joint owners of the first meotiug-house. It was not, however, till 1834 that they had a separate meeting. During six years they held meetings in the school-huiiso at Globe Village. Rev. Ilezekiah Davis was the first minister who was located here. In 1843 a mccting-house was erected. Rev. F. P. Tracy ofEciatcd here ill 1834, about the time when the church was formed and began to have meet- ings by themselves. Man}^ ministers had been on the ground before there was a distinct church. Since then, they have come and gone, according to the usage t)f the denomination to which they belong. The church has a firm foothold in the town, owns a convenient and tasteful house of worship, and seems well o(piipped for Christian work. The present pastor is Rev. E. S. Best, who, though far from old age, is a veteran in the ministiy. As stated already, the Uuiversalists were members of the poll parish, and had an ownership in the meeting-house built in 1797; and ministers of that denomination occupied the pulpit occasionally, in some proportion to the num- ber of members who believed in the doctrine of universal salvation. About the time when the old poll parish was dissolved by the separation of its com- ponent parts, the Universalists began to have i)ublic services independently, and, in the course of time, they formed a society' and provided themselves with a house of worship. The society was organized as the First Universalist Soci- ety of Southbridge, in 1838. Money was raised for maintaining preaching half the time, for the ensuing year. In 1842, a meeting house was erected, and provided with a bell. Not less than fifteen ministers have supplied the pulpit, besides occasional occupants. The first pastor was Rev. John Ijoyden, who remained three or four years. The present pastor, who has held the posi- tion several years, is the Rev. B. V. Stevenson, who is an earnest friend of temperance, and ready to co-operate with others in promoting the moral and religious welfare of the community. The first meeting to make arrangements for regular worship by the Roman Catholics in Southbridge was held at the house of Samuel Seavcjs some time in 1840. There were twelve persons present, seven of whom were of Irish descent, and five were Germans and French Canadians. By 1845 the number of Catholics had increased to forty-five. This seems to have been the begin- ning of the largo influx of the foreign-born population. The Rev. G. Fitton 304 TOWN OF SOUTH DRIDGE. was the first priest on the ground, unless some one might have been here on tninsicnt service. In 1846 Father Lcgaii Itegun liis ministry' in the phice. The present house of worship was completed, and dedicated May 1, 1853. It bears the name of St. Peter, and has the capacity to scat a numerous audience. The church is at present under the pastoral care of Rev. John il. Krcmmen. In 1870, the French Catholics had become numerous enough to authorize the opening of a separate place of worship, and accordingly they organized as a society and erected Notre Dame Church. The pastor is Rev. G. Eiz Brochu. The two Catholic churches stand near together, and arc conspicuous from their situation and style of architecture. They arc between the two villages, and therefore accommodate the population of foreign birth and their native-born children, in and near the centre of the town. The tract of woodland, which formerly separated the two villages a distance of nearly half a mile, is now reduced to a small and pleasant grove, which enhances the beaut}' of the site of the Catholic churches. The poi)ulation of the town, by the census of 187.5, was five thousand seven hundred and forty. The number of the foreign-born was two thousand four hundred and sixty. To these must i)e added their chil- dren who were born here. Deducting from the whole number those of for- eign birth who are Protestants, there would be left the number of per^ons whose religious sj'mpathics and connections are with the Catholic churches in the town. The exact number cannot be given, but the census gives a signifi- cant fact, which indicates what the population is to be before many years. The number of mothers in Southbridge in 1875 was one thousand and twenty-six. Of these, four hundred and thirteen were native-born, and six hundred and thirteen were of foreign birth. The Evangelical Free Church was formed in 1851. In that j-ear a compan}' of believers living in Globe Village and vicinity, to the numlier of twenty-one, took measures for providing the means of the public worship of God. In the little baud were Congregationalists, Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians and Episcopalians. Thcj' organized themselves into a church of Christ, under the name of the Evangelical Free Church and Society. Their bond of union was a common faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and love for his service. The cluiirh is substantially Congregational in polity or government, and strictly Evangel- ical in faith, and the pastors have been connected with the Congregational denomination from the beginning. Public worship was held in Gothic Ilall from 1854 to 1869, when the Hamilton Woolen Company placed at the disposal of the society a beautiful and capacious brick church. This was dedicated Jul}' 16, 1869, and has since then been occupied, freely, by a consideral)le con- gregation. The following have been the pastors in the order of their names : Rev. Messrs. John Cunningham, William C. Whitcomb, Harvey Loomis, Thomas Morong, Martin L. Richardson, Austin Dodge, Frank A. Warlield, George A. Jackson, G. II. Wilson. The superintendent of the S.ibbalh school is Mr. Charles llydc. PUBLIC LIBRARY. 305 The cause of cdiieatioii has been well cared fi)r since the town was incorpor- ated, in ISIG. In that year, when the number of scholars was small, the sum of $101) was raised for school purposes. By 18-10 the sum had increased to $1,000. By degrees, the appropriation rose till 1857, when $2,000 were voted ior schooling. In 18G0, the sum was $3,000 ; in LSGS it was $4,500 ; and in 1870, $5,500. A high school was started in 1854, at small expense. In 1855 the sun) of $C()0 was appropriated for its support. In 18G8 the sum raised was $1,200, and in 1870, $1,900, making the total amount of money devoted to schools in 1870, $7,400. By the report of the State Board of Education, in 1878, the number of schools in the town was twenty-four; the nuui!)er of different scholars in the schools in the school year 1877-8 was fourteen hun- dred and two ; the schools were in session eight months and ten days ; and the money raised by taxes, exclusive of cost for superintendence and printing, was $9,780. The sum spent for each child between five and fifteen years of age was $7,001. It should be stated that a high school was sustained by private subscription from 1841 to 1854, when the town established a high school according to the law. The town was formerly divided into seven school dis- tricts ; but in 18G8, at the annual jMarch meeting, it was voted " that the several school districts in the town of Southbridge be and they are hereby abolished, and that the town will henceforth enter upon and take possession of the prop- erty of the districts, in accordance with the provisions of the General Statutes." One of tile most efficient means of general education is a good lil)rar3'. It crowns all the other means and appliances of learning. In this regard the town is well supplied. The Southbridge Public Library was established by vote of the town, March, 1870, and was opened for public use Feb. 4, 1S71. At first the books were kept in Whitford's Block, but on the first of January, 1872, tho collection was removed to the commodious rooms designed especially for the purpose of a lilmiry, and perpetually leased to the town by Holmes Ammi- down, Esq., of New York. By conditions of the lease, the town must raise $700 yearly, to Ijc expended for books not partisan in politics, nor denomina- tional or sectarian in religion, and must keep it open eight hours a day, Sun- days and legal holidays excepted. The library is free to all residents of the town over fourteen years of age. Jlore than seven thousand volumes are already in the library, and frequent additions are made. The nmnber of jjamphlets is about two thousand five hun- dred. A reading-room, formerly supported by private subscription, but now free, is connected with the library in an adjoining room, and a museum has been established by the generous gifts of Sir. Ammidown. The hours for the delivery of books are from ten to twelve a. m., two to five and six to nine p. m. The liljrary committee is composed of the following gentlemen : George II. Mellcn, Manning Leonard, G. G. Bulfiuch, J. Harrington, W.K. Paton, S. P. Irwin, Jr., William Ilallorau, Joseph Jaggar. The first named is chairman and the second is secretary of the committee. Miss A. Jcannctte Comius is 306 TOWN OF SOUTIIBRIDGE. the librarian. A remark inserted bcre may, perhaps, have a good result. It is thiit the value of the library ma}' be greati}' increased by iho addition of paini)hlets, maps, charts and plans of buildings, cemeteries, parks, and towns. As these articles are rarely taken out of a librarj', their usefulness is over- looked ; but, for all historical and biograi)hical purposes, pamphlets and files of newspapers and magazines arc invaluable. Instead of being sent to the paper- mill, these publications shoidd be stored in the public library. Besides the public li!)rary, there is a large number of books in constunt cir- culation which arc connected with the various Sabbath schools. The library in Globe Village has been referred to in another place. The press stands in close relation with schools and libraries as an educating force. The town is flooded with periodicals of every kind, but reference is now had to the papers whijh have been or are now published in Southbriilgc. The first paper published in the town was the " Reformer and Moralist,"' the first number of which was issued on the first Thursday of January, 1828. Pierpont Edwards B. Bolham was sole proprietor and editor. It was, among other things, an advocate of total abstinence from intoxicating drinks. After the first 3 car the name was changed to the " Moralist and General Intelli- gencer." In the spring of 1820 the materials of the printing office were bought by Josiah Snow, who started a paper named the "Soulhbridge Regis- ter." The next owners of the property were Milton Joslin and Edwin D. Tifliniy, who started the "Village Courier," Feb. 7, 1832. The other papers, it will be understood, had been discontinued. The "Village Courier" was designed to be neutral in politics, but, as Mr. Tiflany was a Whig and aa ardent supporter of Henry Clay for the Presidency, he bought out the interest of his partner and made the paper a stanch supporter of ilr. Cla}'. This movement led to the starting of another newspaper, Sept. 1, 1832, which was called the "True Republican," and advocated the measures of Gen. Jack- son, who was then in the Presidential chair. Both of the above had a short lease of life. The " Ladies' ^lirror," a litcrar}- paper, was published a little over one year. The first number was issued Aug. 28, 1830. Each number contaiuctl eight pages of nine by eleven inches. G. W. II. Fi^ke was connected with the publishing depaitmcnt, and during part of the time W. N. Sherman was the editor. From this time about twent}- years passed before another publication was stalled in the town. Nino numbers of the " Southbridge Press " were issued in the autumn of 1853, when it ceased to appear. Sidney Clark started a paper of the same name Jan. 10, 1854; and, in the following June, Clark Jillsou, the editor, became joint proprietor, and continued in the connection till near the close of 1855. E. A. Dcnne^' took the jiaper from Mr. Clark in the latter part of 1857, and published it about one year. The "Saturday Morning News" had a short run in 1859. This was followed in 18C0 by the "Q linebang Item." WAR OF SECESSION. 307 The " Southhridge Journal " superseded the above paper in 18G1, and was issued by Henry C. Gray until Aug. 17, 1808. William B. Morse became jjroprictor and editor, Aug. 17, and conducted the business till December, 1S71, when Gcoi-ge jM. Wliitakcr became his associate. More recently, the pa[)cr has passed into the hands of Jlr. ^Vhitakcr as editor and proprietor. The paper has a large circulation in Southbridge and the adjoining towns, and a good advertising business. As a local paper, it ranks among the best, and its influence in favor of education, temperance, and good morals is outspoken and decided. One feature of the " Journal '' is worthy of notice and imitation. The editor is fond of historical studies, and gathers much material for local history into his columns. Lately the "Journal" has contained a record of liirths, deaths and marriages in one or more of the towns in South Worcester. If this should lie continued, the paper would become a desideratum in all our libraries and historical society collections. The columns of the "Journal" have essentially aided in the preparation of this sketch. In the war of the Rebellion, Southbridge bore an honorable part, with the expenditure of much money, and the loss of many valuable lives. But the town increased in population and valuation during the war. In 1800 the popu- lation was 3,575; in 18155 it was 4,131. The valuation was $1,304,825 in 18(H), and in 1865 it was $1,G90,2C4. The selectmen, diu'ing these eventful years, were Vcrney Fiske, Adolphus Merriam, jMalcolm Ammidown, James Glcasou, Gayton Ballard, Henry C. Ammidown, William C. Steadman, Man- ning Leonard, and John O. McKinstry. The town clerk was Daniel F. Bacon. Samuel M. Lane was treasurer in the years 18G1-G1, and Daniel F. Bacon in 18G5. The first town meeting, legally called to concert measures in aid of the Government against the Rebellion, was held Jlay G, when the sum of $8,000 was appropriated for raising and equipping a militaiy company, and for the support of the families of those who might enter the service. The selectmen, with the addition of AVilliam Bcechcr, J. O. McKinstry, John Edwards, and C. A. Dresser, were chosen a committee to take charge of the appropriation, and expend it "according to their best discretion." This committee were authorized to pay for each volunteer, who resided in the town, a dollar and a half each week to the wife, and half a dollar to each child ui;dcr twelve years of age, during the term of the volunteer's active service. The committee w re also to pay to each enlisted man eight dollars a month "while in active service, and (ifty cents for each half day spent" in preliminary drilling. On the 7th of October, the selectmen were authorized to pay State aid to the families of sol- diers, as provided ity a law passed at the extra session of the Legislature. In 1SG2, July 1, the following resolution'^, offa'cd by lion. E. L. Ammi- down, were passed by the town : — '■ 1. That tlic treasurer be authorized to borrow tlic sura of S4,000 to paj- soldiers, and the interest ou tlic money borrowed, giving to each soldier, not to exceed thirty- 308 TOWN OF SOUTHBRIDGE. eight, the sum of $100 ; said bountj- to be paid to each soldier when mustered into the niilitarv service for three years, and credited to the quota of tlie town. " 2. That the town clerk be requested to obtain tlie names of volunteers who belong to Sonthbridge, and arc mustered into the United States service, and enter the same on the Itccords of the town." In Ausust the treasurer was authorized to borrow $G,000 for the payment of A bounty of $100 to each vohuiteer, to the number of si.\ty, who should enlist ill a nine mouths' regiment, and be credited to the quota of the town. In 18t)3, January 5, the treasurer was authorized to borrow $2,500 for the payment of bounties to volunteers, and the expense of enlisting the same. In Se|)tcmber it was voted to pay State aid to the families of drafted men as well as the families of volunteers ; and in November money was appropriated to pay State aid to the families of men who had died or become disablcti in the mili- tary service. In 1SG4, April 4, $4,200 more were appropriated for milittiry purposes. Jimc 20 the bounty to vohmteers for three years' service was fixed at $125, and the selectmen were authorized "to set apart a suital)Ie plot of ground in the public cemetery for the erection of a momiment to the soldiers of Sonthbridge who liad died, or might thereafter die, in the service of their country during the war." And in ISIjG, March G, the sum of $3,500 was raised to refund to persons who had paid mono}' "upon subscriptions used for recruit- ing purposes." The number of men furnished by the town for the war was four hundred, which was nineteen above all demands. Four were cil)!e Society. Ilis editorial connection with the " Watchmui and Ketlector," of Boston, was continned from 1851 to 1853. At the same time ho was princi- pal editor of the "Christian Review," an able and learned qu:irterly. In 1853 he ng.iin became connected with the "New York Recorder." Two years later, 1855, ho was appointed professor of rhetoric and history in the University of Rochester, where he remained al)ont twelve years. In the later years of his active life. Dr. Cutting has been engaged in promoting the ccUication of a learned ministry to enter npou their "profession among the churches of the Baptist f.iith." Prof. Stearns, son of Rev. Silas Stearns, fur thirty years pastor of the Bap- tist Church in Bath, Me., was born in that place Oct. 20, 1817. IIo was a graduate of Watervillo College in 1840, and of Newton Theological Institute in 184G. lu 1847 he became pastor of the church in Southl)ridgo, and remained in that position uutil May 30, 1854, when he was dismissed, at his own requc:?t, on account of the failure of his health. After trying the climate of New Jer- sey and finding no benefit, he accci)ted a call to the Baptist Church at Newton, in 1855, and continued to laI)or in that position " with great harmony and success until he accepted the professorship of bil)lical literatuic in Newton Theoh)gical Institute in June, 18G9." The Hon. Ebonezer D. Ammidown, born Nov. 18, 179G, is said to have been "eminently the leading man in Southbridge and vicinity in public improve- ments." He was one of those sagacious men who comprehend the influence of roads, whether highways or railroads, in promoting all the interests of a com- munity, whether material or intellectual and moral. At one time he "was operating all the cotton-mills in the vicinity, as the Dresser or Paige Mill, the "Westvillo Mill, the Columbian and the Central Company Mills." As a com- missioner and president of a railroad, as a county commissioner, as a magis- trate, a senator, and representative, he conducted with great ai)ility and sound judgment. The late Hon. Linus Child writes as follows: "He was a man of gi cat natural talent and energy, and to whatever business or employment he applied himself he always exhibited great clearness of perception, comprehen- siveness of views, and a capacity to api)reciatc at a glauce the true bearings of any subject to which he gave his attention. In these particulars he was rarely excelled or even equalled." The Hon. Linus Child resided in Southbridge many years in the maturity of his noble manhood. He was born in Woodstock, Conn., near the State line, in 1802, February 27, and obtained his preparatory education under the tuition of Rev. Samuel Backus, East Woodstock, and at Bacon Academy at Colchester. After finishing the prescribed course of study, he was graduated at Yale Col- lege in 1821. Having spent two or three years in the study of the law, ho settled in Southl)ridgc and commenced the practice of his profession. Here he BIOGRAPHICAL NOTES. 313 remained eighteen j-ears, when, in 1845, he i-einoved to Lowell to become the ngciit of the large corporation styled the " Boott Mills." It is not needful to follow the remaining years of his life, except to say that ho occupied the posi- tion of an eminent and useful Christian citizen till his decease in 1870. But while he resided in Southhridge his course was steadily upward till he became one of the most prominent and respected men in the coirnty. His business as a law^'cr was extensive, and he rarely lost a cause in court. Six times was ho elected to the office of State Senator from Worcester County on a general ticket, before the county was divided into senatorial districts. As a religious man, ho was not onl}' exemplary in private life, but felt profound interest in all the great benevolent entciprises (>f the day. The cause of mi^^;sions, as repre- sented by the American Board of Commissioners for Foreign Missions, was especially dear to his heart. In the "Historical Collections," two interesting volumes written by ]\Ir. Holmes Ammidown, merchant, of New York, honorable mention is made of several prominent men in the annals of Southbridgc. One of these was Moses Plimpton, who was equalled by few for business capacity. It is said of him that few, if any, exerted a greater or more beneficial influence in the town. "To the cause of temperance, schools, lyceums, religion, and in fact to all objects the design of wliich was the elevation of the people and society about him, be gave his attention and active support." In appropriate terms, Mr. Ammidown celebrated the character and deeds of Timothy Paige, Jr., Esq., James Wolcott, Esq., Col. Otis Ammidown, Frederick W. Bottom, Esq., and Drs. Jacob Corey and Samuel Ilartwell, phj'sicians of great skill and extensive practice. The limits of this sketch jirccludc a more extended notice of these and other men of energy and public spirit, of whom the town of Southhridge appears to have possessed an unusual number. In preparing the preceding sketch, information has been derived from Man- ning Leonard, Esq., Dea. Samuel Lane and Mr. Charles Hyde. The histories of Davis and Ammidown, and the columns of the "Southhridge Journal" have furnished valuable aid. VOL. II.— 40 314 TOWN OF SPENCER. SPENCER BY ALBERT W. CURTIS, ESQ. CHAPTER I. ORIGINAL GRANT AND INCORPORATION — BOUNDARIES AND TOPOGRAPHY — NATURAL FKATURES, LAKES AND STREAMS EARLY SETTLEMENTS POPU- LATION TOWN BUSINESS SCHOOLS TOWN HOUSE — PUBLIC LIBRARY MUSEUM FIRE DEPARTMENT PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS WAYS AND CON- VEYANCES — HOUSES OF ENTERTAINMENT ANTIQUITIES — POST-OFFICE. The Iiulhiu grant to the proprietors of the town of Leicester was confirmed by tiie General Conrt upon the condition that within seven years' time fifty families ^honld settle on part of said land. To accomplish this the proprietors sold the eastern portion of the grant to actnal settlers, and reserved the western portion for themselves. The town thns became early divided into the "settlers' jiart," which constitutes Leicester, and the "proprietors' part," now Spencer. The natural result of this mode of settlement was that the few who had pur- chased land in the " proprietors' part" had to bear the full proportion of all taxes, while those in the "settlers' part" enjoyed all the benetits of church, school, and improvements. The western part soon l)ecame dissatisfied with this arrangement, and in 1736 petitioned the General Court "that the tax of one penny per acre laid on the proprietors of the westerly part of Leicester might be ap[)lied towards the support of preaching in that part of the Town." Through some informality the petition was not acted upon, and nothing further was done until 1741, when the wcotorn poi-tion requested the town that the\- might bo "set off." The vote was in the aflirmalive, and a committee was chosen to secure the necessary legislation. A bill for that purpose was jiassed by the General Court, but was vett>ed by Gov. Shirley for the reason that it would increase the number of representatives. The inhabitants of the westerly part, however, did not despair, but employed John Ormes as agent in their behalf, to pelitii)n to be made a distinct town, or otherwise, to be a parish. lie presented a petition to the General Court May 30, 1744, asking that the westerly part of Leicester might be made a precinct. The petition was granted and "the second precinct of the town of Leicester" was TOWN ORGANIZATION. 315 incorporated July 18, 1744. In 1740, because tlio selectmen rcfuseil to I;iy out town reads in the west p;iris!i, application was made to tlie Court of Sessions at Worcester to lay tlicm out. A compromise was clTected, but the town chose .1 committee to petition the General Court to set off the west pirt"intoa distinct and separate town." The bill was passed by the General Court, but was vetoed by Lieut. Gov. Spenyor Phips, Gov. Siurley being in Enirhuid. The reason of the veto was similar to the former one, that the nuniljcr of representatives would be increased. Three years later, at a jjarish meeting held March G, 1753, Benjamin Johnson, John White, and John Worster were chosen a committee to make one more effort to secure incorporation as a town, and they secured the passage of an act entitled " An act for erecting the second precinct in the town of Leicester into a sei)arate district." Tue provisions of the bill were — " Be it enacted by the Lieutenant-Governor, Council, and House oj Representatives, " That the second precinct of Leicester, bounding north on the town of Ruthind, easterly on the First Parish in Leicester, southerly on land called the Country (lore, wcsterlj'on the town of Brookfield, be and horeb\' is erected into a separate and distinct district by the name of Spencer, and that the said district be invested witli all the powers, privileges, and ininiunilics that towns in this pi'ovince by law do or ma^- enjoy, that of sending a representative to the General Assembly oulj- excei)ted." It was further provided that the district might join with the town of Leices- ter in choosing a representative, and the district cleric was to be notified of all meetings for that purpose. The act passed tho House and Council April 3, 17.")3. and was approved by Lieut. Gov. Spencer Phips April 12. While this act did not erect a separate town in name, yet it did to all intents and [)urposcs, and it is the only act of incorporation that Spencer ever had. The title of district was used until July 17, 1775, when a meeting of the district, acting upon the following warrant, — " Whereas the Selectmen of Spencer have received a precept from the Provincial Congress containing a resolve of the Honorable Continental Congress reconiniending to form government as near the si)irit and substance of the charter as may be and also containing a request from the Provincial Congress to cause the inhabitants of the Dis- trict of Spencer, who are quabflcd agreeable to the charter aforesaid to vote for a repre- sentative to set in the Great and General Court or Assembly' of this colon}-, to be assembled for to elect an/,f reel//, and solemni 1/ cngago •with our Hues and fortunes, to support Congress in such a measure." And Oliver "Watson was directed to communicate the vote to Congress. In 1777 the Committee of Correspondence for 1776 was re-elected for that year. This year, in accordance with an act passed by the General Court, enti- tled, " An Act to prevent Monopoly and Oppression," the selectmen and Com- mittee of Safely fixed the following prices : A day's work for a man in summer, ds. ; a day's work for a yoke of oxen. Is. &d. ; a bushel of wheat, Cs. ; a bushel of rye, 4s.; bushel of corn, 3s.; sheep's wool, Is. lO^Z. per pound; cotton wool, 3s. 8tZ. per pound ; brown sugar, 8s. per pound ; coflfoc, Is. 4tZ. per pound : molasses, 4s. Qxl. per gallon ; a meal of victuals, [tJ. ; a night's lodg- ing, ScZ. ; West India flip, \\d. per mug; New England flip, 9(7. per mug. The town allowed to each man who should enlist for three years or during tiic war twenty pounds bountj% and voted to furnish blankets, one pair of shirts, stockings, and other clothing for the army, at the rate of one suit for every male person from the town over sixteen years of age. Between January and April, 1777, the town paid in bounties one hundred and ninet3--nine pounds and fourteen shillings. The Genenil Court having called in four hundred thou- sand pounds of the State's outstanding debts, the town made a vigorous remon- strance, l)ut, being unsuccessful, raised its proportion by a tax. The amount raised was nine hundred and ninety-one pounds and seventeen shillings, or about thirteen hundred dollars. In July, 1777, a company, under command of David Proutj-, went to Ben- nington. In August another company, comraandod by Josiah White, went to the same place. In November it was voted to assess one hundred pounds for ammunition bought. At a meeting in December, a committee was appointed "to ascertain what service each person had rendered, either by men, money, or otherwise, since April 19, 1775. There is nothing to show that this committee ever made a report. It was voted "not to allow Asa Whi'temore's bill for carting bnggage of Capt. Pronty's and Capt. White's companies to Bennington, and going to Hadlcy, as he had already been paid by the State." Joshua Lamb, John Muzz}', Joshua Barton, John Worster, and John Watson were chosen Committee of Safety for 1778. Jan. 5, 1778, the town adopted "the articles of perpetual union between the States," otherwise known as the PATRIOTIC ACTION. 325 " Articles of Coiifcdcration." At a meeting in May, tho town rejected the Con- stitution which had been formed by the General Court, the vote being one hun- dred and two against it. Seven men were paid this year tliirly pounds cadi for enlisling for nine mouths, and thirty-seven pairs of shoes, shirts, and stock- ings were furnished to tho State. The sclectiuen were instructed to furnish aid to the families of the soldiers. James Livermore, Benjamin Glcazcn, John "Worster, John Muzzy, and Jacob Upham were the Committee of Safety for 1779. Early in the year, bounties of thirty pounds each were paid to six men, who had enlisted for six mouths, and sixty pounds were raised for the families of soldiers. Between March and July of that year, eighty-nine pounds and seventeen shillings were raised for supplies for the army. At a meeting in July, upon notice from the selectmen of Boston that many Tories, who had left at tho commenccmeut of the Revolution, were now returning, spirited res- olutions were passed approving of the conduct of the town of Boston " in their endeavors to take up and secure such odious persons who had the impudence to appear in that town, that they may be dealt with according to a good and ■wholesome law of this State." They also pledged themselves "to aid and assist the civil magistrate in the execution of all laws made for the purpose of excluding all such hateful creatures from among us, and wc also recommend to all persons that they would exert themselves to prevent all and every of these dissolute wretches from coming and harbouring among any of the people of this State." A committee, consisting of Stephen Hatch, Joremiaii AViiittemore, and Israel Ball, was chosen to look after the destitute families of tho soldiers, and two hundred pounds raised for that purpose. The town instructed John Muzz}', their representative, " not to give his consent to any act for making up the sinks of money between debtor and creditor, either public or private, sol- ditrs and officers in the Continental army excepted." Eleven more men were furnished for the army, and a tax of fifty-four hundred pounds assessed. It must be remembered that at this time currency was greatly depreciated, and this tax was equal to about nine hundred dollars. In August, Asa Baldwin was sent by the town to a convention to be held at Concord to fix the prices of the necessaries of life. The prices of the most important articles were : corn per bushel, $14 ; wheat, $27 ; ha}', $5 per hun- dred ; labor, per day, $'J ; beef, 92 cts. per pound ; men's shoes, pvr pair, $20 ; stockings, per [lair, $12. In 1780, John Muzz}', Johnson Lyude, John Sunnier, Benjamin Bcniis, and Jouaa Muzzy were chosen Committee of Safety. In paying a bounty of thirty pounds to soldiers this year, the value of it was tixed at three shillings for corn and four shillings for rye. During the year there was a constant demand for supplies and money. In March, seven thousand one hundred and fifty pounds of beef were furnished for the arm}', and sixteen thousand pounds laised by a tax. In Se[)tember, the selectmen were authorized to l)orrow money to purchase clothing and blankets for the soldiers, and forty-eiglit th(jusand four 326 TOWN OF SPENCER. huudrcd and fifty-six pounds was raised to pay soldiers. In October, twenty thousand pounds were raised to buy beef for the army, and thirty-five iiuncb'od and sixty-live pounds to provide horses for tlic use of tlie army. In December, four hundred and sixty-seven pounds more were raised for beef, and three tlioii- sand and fifty pounds to hire fourteen men to serve for three j'ears. During this year, eighty-eight thousand six iiundred and thirty-three pounds were paid into the town treasury. This seems a large sum for the people of those times, with their limited resources, and after the demands of the last few years ; but it must be remembered that the currency was greatly depreciated at this time. At the beginning of the year it was forty to one, and before its close, two hundred and forty to one. In May the town assembled to vote upon the Stale Constitution. All of the articles were approved, excepting those in rela- tion to representation, which were regarded as uiietpial, many places not being alliiwed to participate in the election of them. In 17iSl, John Sumner, Jonas Muzzy, Johnson Lynde, Jeremiah Whitte- more and Nathaniel T. Loring were the Committee of Safety. The town voted " that all money raised during the year be hard money." In July five hundred and thirty-six pounds were raised to purchase l)ecf. In September, two hundred pounds more were raised to pay soldiers. The assessors having made out the tix-lisfs, graduated in the paper currency, the town voted "that the tax bills bo returned to the assessors, and that they 1)e reduced to hard-money currency." This year viitually terminated the war ; the last requisition made was in ^larch, 17152, when the town was required to furnish its quota of soldiers for three years. Asa Baldwin, Jeremiah Whittemore, and Ezckiel Newton were the Committee of Safety during 1782, James Hathaway, Jonas JIuzzy, and Isaac ]\Iorgan, in 17So, and James Livermore, Jeremiah Whittcmoie, and John Wat- son, in 1784, when the office was abolished. This outline of the town's doings in the Revolution shows their devoted uesa to the principles for which the war was fought, and that the people " freely, fully, and solemnly" kept their pledge to sustain Congress in declaring the independence of the Colonies from Great Britain. The number of soldiers i'urnislu'd by the town during the war has never been ascertained. Before the close of the war the Continental currenc}' had become worthless ; the State was largely in debt, and to meet its payments largo taxes were imposed upon the people, and this town was very active in remonstrating against this course. John Bisco, their representative, was instructed to re- quest the General Court to repeal an act which had been passed levying a tax u[)on articles of trade, or otherwise "redress grievances too palpable to be denied, and too great to bo borne." Obtaining no relief from the Legis- lature, conventions were held, "to take into consideration the many grievances the good people of this Commonwealth labor under." Isaac Jcnks was the r.'presentative to the General Court in 1782, and among his many instructions were these : — "To procure laws to be passed, that no suit should be commenced THE SII.VYS IXSURRECTION. 327 Mithoiit previous notification to tlic debtor; tliat State notes and certificates I)e a legal tender for all del)ts, as irold and silver were ; that all property attached for debt should he appiaised to the creditor to satisfy his del)t." Executions were issued against the eonstahics in 1784 for two years' delinquent State taxes. In 1785, a petition w.is sent to the General Court, praying them "to establish a bank of paper money," or property of all kinds be made a tender for payment of debts. A special town meeting was called June 8, 178G, "to see if the Town will take into consideration the present distress of the people of this Commonwealth, caused by a want of a circulating medium to satisfy the demands now called for." A committee was chosen to attend a convention of the adjoining towns, to be held at Leicester; and Ihey were instructed, "to use their best endeavors to ol)tain a bank of p:ipcr money." It w:is also voted to ])etition the Court of Common Pleas to adjourn all suits from June to Septem- ber. Among the list of grievances reported tr) the General Court was, "the existence of the judicial courts" declaring that they "conceived their existence to be a great and unnecessary burthen upon the people, and that they may be abolished." The attempt to overawe the court at Worcester was participated in by a compan}' from this town, who were armed and etpiipped with powder and balls. About this time, the town's magazine was broken open, and the stock of arms and ammunition removed. As the annual meeting for 1787 was called by John Bisco, a justice of the peace, upon a petition to him from the citizens, representing that the majority of the selectmen were out of town, it is inferred that they had some connection with the removal of the town's stock. Four citizens afterwards made an apology to the town for their connection with liie affair. Some of the town's people joined the insurgents at New Braintree, and one of them, David May, was obliged to pay large damages to David Young, who was wounded in attempting to disband the company in which May was. After the insurrection was quelled, the records show that a large number wei"e obliged to take the oath of allegiance before John Bisco. The sentiment of the people in reference to Shays' Insurrection is shown in the vote for Gov- ernor in 1787. John Hancock, who was supposed to be in favor of a lenient course towards those of the insurgents who had been arrested and were then imprisoned, and of a change of policy in administering State affairs, received eighty-seven votes ; whih; Gov. Bowdoiu received only seven. After the election the trouble quietly subsided. In 1791 it was voted, "to t ike lifleen shillings on the pound for what the State owes the town." There is nothing to show that the town ever took any olEcial action in the war of 1812 or the Mexican war. The Civil war in 18G1 found the inhabitants of Spencer as patriotic as they were in 177.5. On the day after the firing upon the sixth regiment at Balti- nioro a wairant was posted calling a town meeting, April 29, "to see what measures the town will take to furnish outfits jind uniforms for a company of volunteers about to be organized for the service of the government." At this 328 TOWN OF SPENCER. meeting the selectmea and assessors were chosen a committee of safety, "whose duty it shall bo to supervise, expend and lay out for the purposes mentioned in the above article such a sum or sums, not exceeding live thousand dollars, as may be necessary." At this time the selectmen were Luther Hill, Dexter Bullard, Joshua Bemis, Josiah Green, Jr., and Jeremiah W. Drake ; the assessors were Nathan Hersey, David Bemis and George L. Ilobbs. It was voted "to pay each member of the volunteer company seventy-live cents for each one-half day they drilled within the next thirty days." The committee of safety were authorized to pay to each member of the volunteer company ten dollars per month while in actual service, in addition to government p:iy. A recruiting committee of eleven, one from each school district, was chosen. A fl;ig was purchased for the town house, and the ladies were invited to procure a banner fur the company. Tlic volunteers were oiganizcd with William T. Harlow as captain, and joined the twenty-first regiment as company C. At a meeting in August liie selectmen were authorized to furnish aid to soldiers' families; and, if that furnished by the State was not enough, to draw a sum sufScieut for their comfortable sui)port. Ten dollars was voted to each volunteer. In 1862 the poll-taxes of volunteers were abated, and a bounty of one hundred dollars oficred to thirt^'-two persons who would enlist for one year, and fifty dollars more if they remainet pastfir was Joshua Eaton, who commenced preaching in 1743. A church was founded iu 1744, and the ordination of Mr. Eaton took place Nov. 7, 1744. He had a salary of one himdrcd and fifty pounds, with the land tax, voted by the proprietors, and a sum raised by sub- 330 TOAVN OF SPENCER. scription fur a settlement. Five pounds were to be added annually to the salary, until it should he two hundred pounds. In 1748 one hundred pounds were added, and in 17GG it was iiiadc ecjual to two hundred and forty-f.mr dollars.* Mr. Eaton was born in Waltham in 171-1, and graduated at Harvard in 1735. lie remained j^asfor of tlio church until his dcalh, April 2, 1772. During bis pastorate there w-as considerable trouble in reference to the hymn- book which should bo used ; that of Stcrnhold and Hopkins having been employed. In 17G1 the church took a vote upon the subject, and there were thirty-three for the old book, fourteen for Dr. Watts', and si.\ for Brady and Tate's. The subject was then referred to three ministers, who advised the church to use Brady and Tate's on trial for six months. In 1709, after trial of this book, the church voted that the old book bo used in connection with Dr. AVatts'. Finally, in October, 17(31), by a vote of twenty-six to six. Dr. Watts' Psalms and II\-nnis was adopted. At this time the singers sat among the congregation, and it was not until 1783 that they Avere allowed to sit together in the gallery. When t'.iis innovation was made, one gentleman told the minister, "If yon give your encouragement to such improprieties, I will serve you a trick that the devil wouldn't — I will leave you." This appears to be the only dissension that occurred during Rev. Mr. Eaton's ministry. Rev. Joseph Pope succeeded Mr. Eaton, and was ordained Oct. 20, 1773, with a salary of two hundred and forty-four dollars a 3'car. lie received four hundred and forty-four dollars as settlement. lie w-as born in Pomfret,Conu , in 171G, and graduated at Harvard in 1770. Ilo occupied the pulpit until November, 1818, when he hud a shock of paralysis, and died March 8, 182G. During his pastorate the society was at many times unable, on account of the demands of the w^ar, to pay him his full salary ; but their rv^lations were always pleasant, and he was highly esteemed. During the illness cf Mr. Pope, Rev. Stephen Crosby supidied the pulpit, and in March, 1819, he was invited to become their pastor, and was ordained in June, with a salary of six hundred and fifty dollars per annum. He was dismissed May 31, 1825. Rev. Levi Packard was the next minister, and was ordained Jimo 11, 182G, with a salary of four hundred and seventy-live dollars, and the use of a house. He was dismissed in September, 1853. Rev. Stephen G. Dodd, the next minister, was installed August 23, 1854, with a salary, including hcnisc, of eight hundred and twenty-five dcjUars. His dismission took place October, 18G0. Rev. Thomas T. Waterman succeeded • The General Court, in 1749, passed an act abolishing old tenor, and snbstitnted what was called new tenor in its stead. The currency was greatly depreciated and irregnlar, and this act was a great relief to the eoniniunity. At the time this act was passed, twenty shillings, old tenor, was equal to two shillings and eightpence, lawful money, or about forty-four cents. Consciiuently, the salary of Mr. Eaton, for his first year, being 1.">U pounds, old tenor, was equal to §33.67, and a tax of twopence, old touor, per acre, calculating 20,000 acres of land for the town, would be about $74.83. CHURCHES AND MINISTERS. S?A him, and was installed June 5, 1861. During his ministry the church was destroyed by fire, and services were held in tiie town hall. He sent his ro.siii;n;iti()ii to the church Sept. 8, 18G2, but it was not accepted luitil the installation of Rev. James Cruickshanks, Jan. 13, 1SG4. I\Ir. Cruickslianks' dismissal took place Jidy 12, 1871. There was not a regular minister until Sept. IG, 1873, when Rev. Harrison A. Shorey was installed. Hc^ was dismissed Dec. 21, 187G, and Rev. A. S. Walker, the present pastor, was installed Nov. 11, 1877. A Baptist church was organized June 30, 1819, and a church built in tiie north-east part of the town, so as to accommodate adjoining towns. Regular services were held until about 1850; after that time there was occasional jjrcaching fur several years, until the church was sold to private parties. In 1878 another church was organized, under t!ie charge of Rev. O. S. C. Wal- lace, and regular services are held in a private hall. A Universalist S.)ciety was organized April 22, 1830, consisting of ten members. A church was built in 1833, and regular services were held until about 1850, when the church was sold. Occasional services were held in the town hall until 1877, when a new society was organized, with Rev. F. A. Bisbee as pastor. A Methodist society was organized in 1811, and services held in the town ball until 1847, when a church was erected. Rev. Austin F. Ilerrick is, at present, pastor of the church. Througii the liberality of William Ilen- shaw, Esq., this church was re-built in 1872-3, and made one of the most attractive public buildings in the town. A Catholic church was erected in 1853. Rev. Julius C>)Sson and Rev. Thomas D. Beaven are tlie pastors at the present time. The Catholics com- prise nearly one-half of the population of the town. Nearly one acre of the laud given to the town hy Nathaniel Cunningham was appropriated for a buryiug-ground, and was the oidy one in the place for many years. Additional land has been purchased from time to time, until it com- prises three acres. In 17D7, a house was built for a hearse, and a pall was also purchased. A fund of al)out three thousand dollars has been raised by former and present residents, the income of which is used in improving the grounds, and keeping them in good condition. The first person buried in tho cemetery was Elizabeth Adams, in December, 1742. Many of the stones which marked the graves of the old settlers have disappeared, being only com- mon stones. But few burials are made in this cemetery now, excej)! b}' those who have owned lots for some time, a new cemetery having been laid out on t!ie bank of the Seven Mile River. This comprises many acres, and is bcauti- fidly situated, and tastefully laid out. It is known as "Pine Grove Cemetery." The Catholics have a large cemetery ou the old county road, and it is being iu)[)rovcd each year. 332 TOWN OF SPEXCER. CHAPTER III. mSTINGUISIIED MEN AGKICCLTURE AND OTHER BUSINESS — MANCFACTUKES CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION NEWSPAPER SOCIETIES AND ORGANIZATIONS FINANCE PROFESSIONAL MEN — PUBLIC CHARACTERS INTERESTING AND CURIOUS OLD TOWN BUSINESS THE TOWN POUND. Spencer has piodiicctl hut few moii of note ; but one of these has done as much to improve the condition of the people as any man that has ever lived. Elias IIowc, the inventor of the sewing-machine, was born in this town, Jiii\' 9, 18111. His youthful days were spent ui)on his fatlier's farm in the soul!) part of the town, until he went to Lowell, where he commenced to work on his machine. His first invention was patented Sept. 10, 184G. Although he was involved in many suits to protect his rights, he generally triinnphed, and died wealthy, in Brooklyn, N. Y., Oct. 3, 18G7. William Howe, an uncle of Elias, born May 12, 1803, was the invcnlor i.f the "truss wooden bridge," which has been successfully used in bridging largo streams. The large roof of the Boston and Albany Railroad dep;)t, iu B jston, was constructed by him, and was considered a very difScult undertaking at that time. Agiieulture was the occupalion of the i)e(.plo of Spencer for many 3'ears, with tiie exception of a few gri.-t and saw mills scattered throughout the town, Avhere there was sufficient water, but (he changes during one hundred 3'ears arc, in this respect, ver}' marked. The (own is now one of the leading boot manufacturing towns in (he S(atc. From this industry most of the jieoplo acquire their living and many of (he farmers have small shops on their farms, where they work ui)on boots when their crops do not require attention. While the manufacture of boots is the leading industry*, there are others which fur- nish employment to many persons. There are four woolen-mills, two wire- mills, two box-mills and one heel manufactory. The census of 1875 gives the occupation of the inhabitants as follows : Clergymen, 4 ; [ih^'sicians, G ; teach- ers, 20; clerks, 22; merchants and traders, 47; railroad emplo^'is, 11; sales- men, 3; teamsters, 24; farmers, 152; hostleis, 9; boot and shoemakers, 1,108; tinsmiths, 7; carpenters, 51; masons, 13; painters, IG; blacksmiths, 13; printers, 8; woolen- factory operatives, 109; wire-makers, 50; box-mak- ers, 14 ; laborers, 34 ; retired, 3 ; housewives, 1,111 ; housekeepers, 22 ; house- work, 56; domestic servants, 54; seamstresses, 5; dressmakers, 10; milli- ners, 3. In 1875, the agricultural productions were $189,162, while the prod- ucts of manufacture were $2,889,116. Other industries have been established but they are now extinct. The most important of these was the manufacture of powder b}' Lewis Bemis and Edward Hall. In 1837, there were two of these mills and 162,500 pounds of powder were manufactured, of the value of $14,500. In 1850, the products were twenty-five tons, valued at $15,000. BUSINESS ENTERPRISE. 333 April 21, 1840, one of these mills was tlcstroyeil hy explosion, and three men were killed. In October of the s;uno year, another mill blew up, but no one was injured. Nov. 4, 1853, another explosion occurred, and five men were killed. Soon after this the business was given up. The making of palm-leaf hats afforded the housewife moans to obtain "pin money" for herself and family, and these were disposed of at the stores or sold to collectors. In 1837, there were 2t),C00 hats made, of the value of $700. The smtdl water-power in the main village was put to use at an early day. In 1810, a woolen-mill was erected on Elm Street, on the site of Capin's mill, and it w'as run by Jabcz Howe, Willard Rice and John Jcuks for several years, until sold to Amos Brown & Co. Soon after the erection of this mill a second one was erected near the site of Livermorc's box-shop, and occupied by Chapin & Prouty. In 1837, there were cmplovcd in these two mills, thirty-one males and twenly-threc females ; thirtj'-four thousand yards of cloth were manufac- tured, valued at eighty-seven thousand dollars. In 1837, Brown & Co.'s fac- tory was destroyed by fire, and, in 1830, Chapin &, Prouty's suffered the same fate. They were soon rebuilt. About 1840, William Ilenshaw and Silas and Nathaniel Eldridgc came from Worcester and engaged in the manufacture of cotton and satinet goods. The " Westville " mill was erected by Nathaniel Eldridgc about that time. In 1850, II. J. Lyman & Co., Thomas II. Shorey and Willi;im Ilcnshaw were making satinet, and Nathaniel Eldridgc, cotton goods. The production at (hat time was valued at fifty-eight thousand dollars. Since that time there have been many changes in the ownership of these mills, and in the quality and kind of goods made. There are at present four facto- ries in operation owned by Upham & Sagendorph, Upham & Ladd, Upham & Kelly and Upham & Stanley. In 1875, the production of these mills was valued at three hundred and forty thousand dollars. The mill occupied by Upham c^- Kelly was, when it was first erected, about 1845, used as a wheel manufactory. One of (he important industries of the town is that of wire-making, which is carried on in " Wire Village " about two miles from the Centre. Located on Seven-Mile River, it his the largest water-power in the town. The first saw- mill erected in the town was built near (he site of Sngden & Myrick's saw-mill, about 1740, by James Wilson. The war of 1812 stopped the supply of wire from England for the card factories in Leicester, and induced Americans to take hold of the business. In that year Elliot Prouty commenced wire-draw- ing in a mill near the saw-mill. After the declaration of peace the business died out and Mr. Prouty went West. He returned in 1820, and with his brother, Russell Proutj-, resumed the business. After a few years, Foster Bisco bought them out, and he in turn sold to his brother, RoswcU Bisco. In 1847, he sold out to Nathaniel Myrick and Richard Sugdeu. Lower down the stream, Eli Hatch carded wool for many years, and, in 1830, he com- 334 TOWN OF SPENCER. nicnceil Ihe wire business. He was succeeded by Liberty Proiity, and after liis death tlie business was carried on by his sons, Jonas R. and Joel E. Prouly. In 187G, the Spencer Wire Conipaii}' was formed, and tlie wire business of the upper and lower village is now done under that name. In 1837, there were ten tons of wire mannfaeturcd by four mills, employing ten hands ; the value of the wire was $10,480. The value of the wire manufactured in 1850 was $14,100; in 18G0, $80,000, and in 1875, about $150,000. The manufacture of scythes, hoes and cutlery was carried on by Ziba Eaton in the upper "Wire Village," between 1830 and 1850. In the latter year one hundred and twenty dozen of scythes were made, valued at $1,200. This busi- ness was given up about 1855. The manufiicture of sale boots Ijegan eaily in the present century. It is said that Charles "Watson of Spencer made the (ir.-t venture, but it did n .t prove a financial success. lie made eight^'-four pairs in It 00, and sold them to a Southern trader for four dollars and fifty cents per pair, and never received his pay. The real founder of this enterprise was Josiah Green. lie and his brother Nathaniel started in the business of making sale boots in Leicester in the winter of 1811-12, with a capital of nine'.y-fivc dollars, Josiah contrii)- uting six and Nathaniel eighty-five. They worked in their mother's garret and used "card splits." The boots cost $1.25 per pair. In the summer, Josiah, being at the time nineteen years of age, started for Boston with a horse-load. He found it difBcult to dispose of them, but finally an auctioneer took half a dozen pair on trial. They sold so well that he took the remainder of the load at $2.30 per pair. The nc.vt summer Josiah took a load of seven hundred paii's to Albany, N. Y., and sold them to army contractors at $2.25 per pair. In 1815, the brothers dissolved and Josiah's share of the profits for the three years amounted to fifteen hundred dollars. In 1817, he moved to Spencer, and manufactured boots in his house. He disposed of them by carrying them about the country and selling at the stores. Soon after 1817, he commenced to use pegs. His house was his workshop initil 1837, when he erected the old shop still standing on the old count}' road, and adorned with a plain but histor- ical sign, "Josiah Green's bocjt manufaetor}-, established in 1812." Such was the humble beginning of an industry which has not only built up this town but many others throughout the New England States, and has become one of the leading branches of industry' of this country, ilr. Green continued in busi- ness until 18G7, when he retired, leaving it to his three sons. He died in 187G. When it was found that the business was a paying one others engaged in it with more or less success. In 1820, Isaac Prouty commenced to make boots for the trade in a small shop in what is called "North Spencer." In 1855, he moved to the village and erected a shop, which formerly stood near the Methodist church. This soon became too small for his business; and, in 1859, a portion of the present factory was erected, and soon after his sons were admitted as partners. Addi- ■'rr:.ur -T^^^' , -. ^ '-^iJ»^!pM»3^'^ ^^ ^«kV>S^^^ JOSIAII GKEEN' it CO.'S HOOT rACTOUV, srENCLU, MA BOOT AND SHOE TRADE. 335 tions have been made to the factory, and at the present time it is four hundred and fifty-five feet long and five stories high, and is claimed to be the largest boot factory in the world. Isaac Pronty died in 1871, and the bnsinci-s is now conducted by his three sons. In 1837, one liundred and sixty-two males and twenty-eight females were employed in making boots and shoes; 52,091 pairs of l)oots were made, and 2,9-10 pairs of shoes, their value was $100,496. In 18r)0, there were six boot factories in operation, owned by Josiah Green, Isaac Prouty, Grout, Bush & Co., A. T. & E. Jones, Charles E. Denny and Wat- son, Bemis & Co. The value of boots manufactured was two hundred and fifteen thousand dollars. In 18G0 there were seven firms, Josiah Green & Co., Isaac Prouty & Co., Grout, Bush & Co., A. T. & E. Jones, David Prouty & Co., Livermore & Drury and C. & G. Watson. The amount of capital invested was one hundred and thiit^'-tbreo thousand dollar.-:, and the value of produc- tion five hundi'ed and twenty thousand dollars. At tlie present lime the firms manufacturing b )ots are Josiah Green & Co , E. Jones & Co., Bullard & Temple, David Prouty & Co., Isaac Prouty & Co., Bush & Grout, E. E. Kent & Co., Prouty Bros., J. E. Bacon and David A. Drury. The amount of capital invested in the business in 1875 was $525,040, and the value of goods prc.duced $2,155,429. The boot manufocturers have suffered but little from fires. The only losses fi'om this cause ai"c those of David A. Drury, whose factory was entirely destroyed by fire in the winter of 1874, and Bush & Grout, their factory being burned in December, 1875. The latter was the largest fire that ever occurred in the town, the factory and five other buildings being burned. Connected with the boot business are those of currying and box-making. The former business was carried on for some jears previous to 18(10 by Edward Proctor and Joseph W. Morse, since that time the business has entirely disappeared. The business of making boxes for boots has been a growing one, to correspond to the giowth of the boot business, and the farmers have found a ready and good market for their pine lumber. The business is now conducted by Ebeuezer Howe and Warren J. Livermore. The products of this industry, in 1875, were valued at forty thousand dollars. The manufacture of ^lioe heels is canied on by ^Villiam A. Barr; the products, in 1875, were valued at eleven thousand dollars. The manufacture of chairs his been carried on f\)r many j'cars in "Ilillsville" l)y Sullivan Hill. These are the most important of the industries carried on iu the town at present. In 1871, Isaac Prouty, Henry R. Green and Erastus Jones were incorpo- rated as the Spencer Savings Bank. The office was for some time in the count- ing-room of E. Jones & Co. until the erection of the " Bank Block " in 1875. In that 3'ear the Spencer National Bank was incorporated with a capital of $150,000. Erastus Jones is president, and W. L. Demond, cashier. "The Centennial" was observed by a procession of the di He rent societies and the fire department, an oration by Hon. Geo. B. Loring and a dinner in the town hall. 336 TOWN OF SPENCER. A wct^kly newspaper, "The Spencer Sun," was established in 1872, by Samuel G. Ames. The present proprietor is James Pickup. A Masonic lodge was cstal)lished in 1872, a lodge of Odd I'ellows in 1877, and au order of the Improved Hod Men in the same year, and a council of the Eoyal Arcanum in 1879. Tiie Irisli have a lodge of the Ancient Order of Hibernians, and the French the St. John Baptist Society. The latter is the largest organization in the place, numbering over four hundred. In 1821, the "Ladies' Benevolent Society" connected with the Congregational church was formed. Of the first forty members, only Mrs. Jeremiah Grout and Mrs. Den- nis AVard survive. The town debt in 1855 was $fi.215 ; in 1860, $2,660; in 1865, $18,886; in 1870, $5,984; in 1875, $56,300. This debt was incurred by the erection of the town hall. The debt at present is about $60,000. The early ph3sicians of the town were James Ormes, Asa Buiden, William Frink, Benjamin Drury, Jonas Guilford, Cheney Potter, Asa Jones, Jonas Guilford and Edward C. Dyer. James Ormes settled here in 1732. The present physicians are Edward M. Wheeler, Marquis Il.dl, Clmrles L. Kings- bury, Edward R. Wheeler, I. Yerner,0. S. Chapman and IMarc Fontaine. Others have been here for a short time. Charles P. Barton and Edward W. Bowe practice dentistry. The first lawyer who located in town was Bradford Sumner in 1813. lie remained but a few weeks. John Davis commenced his profe's- sional career here in 1815. lie removed to Worcester in 1816, and was after- ward a Represcntalive to Congress for ten years, Governor of the State lor three terms and Senator in Congress for two terms. The other lawyers luu e been William S. Andrews, located in 1816 ; Daniel Knight, in 1817 ; Napoleon B. Smith, in 1852; William T. Harlow, in 1854, and Albert W. Curtis, in 1874. Mr. Harlow, at the beginning of the war, in 1861, formed a company and joined the 21st Regiment. He is now assistant-clerk of the Superior Com t for the county. The criminal I)usiness of the town was done for many years by John Bisco, Esq., then by James Draper, Esq. In 1858 Luther Hill was conmiissioned a Trial Justice, and still remains in the ofBco. The following persons have been connected with the State government : — William Upham, Councillor in 1878-9; Senators: James Draper in 1831-2, William Upham in 1859, smd Luther Hill in 1867 ; Delegates to the Constitu- tional Conventions: John Bisco in 1779, James Draper in 1820, and Jabcz Green in 1853 ; Representatives to the General Court : Oliver Watson in 1775-76-77-80, John Bisco in 1777-80-81, John Muzzy in 1779, Isaac Jcnks. 1782 to '86 ; James Hathaway, 1787 to 1794; Benjamin Drury, 1794 to 1811 ; Jonas Muzzy, 1811-12; Phineas Jones, 1812; James Draper, 1813 to 181!); William Bcmis, 1820; Rufns Adams, 1823; William Pope, 1827; James Draper, 1828 to 1832; Rnfus Adams, 1832; Walton Livermore, 1831; David Prouty, 1833-34 ; Lewis Bemis, 1834-35 ; Amos Brown, 1835 ; .Tames Draper, 1836-37; Dennis Ward, 1836-37-39-47-56 ; Walter Sibley, 1838 ; Eleazer B. REPRESENTATION IN LEGISLATURE. 337 Draper, 1839-40-41-45 ; Jonas Guilford, 1842 ; Jabez Green, 1843-44-50 ; Milton Boyden, 1848; William Baldwin, 1851 ; Alonzo Temple, 1852; Alan- son Prouty, 1853; William Hcnshaw, 1854; William Upham, 1857-72; John L. Bush, 1859; George L. Ilobbs. 1801; Luther Hill, 18G3-65-70; Dexter Buliard, 18G7 ; Erastus Jones, 1874; David Prouty, 187G, and James H. Ames in 1878. Spencer, for several years after its incorporation, elected a rppresculative alone. Then a representative district was formed of Spencer and Leicester. In 18G6 the towns of Auburn, Charlton, Leicester, Spencer and Southbridge were formed into a representative district. In 187G Oxford, Southl)ridge, Charlton and Spencer were made a district. Since the incorpora- tion of the town there have been twenty-two clerks. Benjamin Drury held tlic office for thirty-two successive years from 1787 to 1820. One hundred and forty persons have held the office of selectman, from five to three being elected each year ; the latter number has been elected for several years. James Watson held the office for twenty-three successive years, from 1785 to 1809 ; Jonas iNIuzzy for uiucteeu years, Benjamin Drury for sixteen years, and David Prouty for fifteen years. The town has had tw'ent3'-one treasurers. J(jhn Bisco was treasurer for twenty-one years ; Horace A. Grout, the present treasurer, was first elected in 18G8. The town has had eighty dificrent persons for assessors. John Bisco held the office for twenty-three years, David Prouty for seventeen years, Thomas Sprague for eighteen years, James Draper for twenty-seven years, and David Bemis, one of the present assessors, has held the office for thirty-five ycais. Luther Hill has been moderator at twenty annual meetings. Since the formation of the Republican party the voters have given laigc majorities for its candidates. In 18G4 the vote for Governor was three hundred and fifty-four for John A. Andrew, and fifty-three for Henry W. Paine. At the first election of Governor, in 1780, John Hancock had sixty-uino votes and no opposition, and in 1783-84—90-91 and '93 he had no opposition. In 1794-95 Samuel Adams had sixty-one votes each year, with no opposition. In 1757 it was voted that the town meetings, for the future, be warned by the constal)Ic3 going from house to house. At the annuid meeting in March, 1784, it was voted "that each person keep on his hat, if he pleases, while in the meeting." At a meeting held Dec. 10, 1821, it was voted "that leave be given to put stoves into the meeting-house, by subscription, and without any cost to the town, under the inspection of the selectmen." This is the first record of any heating of the church, and for several years afterwards the town voted "not to furnish fuel for the stoves in the meeting-house." At the March meeting in 1831 it was voted "to appropriate $100 towards purchasing a fire-engine for the town, and for the erection of a building to contain it." The hand engine was })urchascd soon afterwards. May 5, 1803, it was voted "to allow seventeen cents Ijount}' on crows till the first day of July next, to be paid l)y the Town Treasurer." 338 TOWN OF SPENCER. The town has been but little troubled with contagious diseases. The follow- ing petition appears upon the town records, dated Sept. 13, 1792 : — "Tb the Genllemen Selectmen of the Town of SiJencer : Hiimblj' sboweth that In- reason of the pievaleucy of the Small Pox in this State, and the stage passengers quartering at Mr. Isaac Jenks, that be anil his family arc in the greatest danger of talcing the infec- tion, if they have not as jxt taiccn it, whercljy the inhabitants of said town may be greatly indangcrcd, without a place or house being appointed to receive him and others, think it necessary that the Selectmen forthwith call a meeting of the Inhabitants of said town, to see if the town will indulge said .lonks and family only, and others if the town see fit, the liberty of being enoculated with the small pox in some house." Two meetings were held on the above petition, and the town "voted to take no action llicrcon." In 1^72 small-pox was quite prevalent among the French inhabitants." An article in a warrant, Nov. 12, 1821, was "to see if the town will purchase a farm and other accommodations for the use of the town's poor." A committee of live was chosen to consider the subject, and they reported in favor of buying a farm. It was not until Sept. 19, 1825, that the town took final action on the subject, and purchased the farms of Eleazer B. Draper, containing 96 acres, for $2,000, and of Joseph Cheever, containing 6G| acres, for $1,650. These constitute the present town farm. The cost of supporting the poor at that time was about $800. At the present time $3,000 is used for that purpose. In this connection the following notice may be of interest : — "To the Selectmen of Spencer : Gentlemen, — I hereby acquaint you in a formal manner that a certain mollatto girl, called Naomie Cad\-, whom I have had in my family in the state and capacity of a minor, for a number of years, has arrived at the age of twcnt3--one years, on the 2d day of this instant, and is capable of acquiring a legal right of habitation in this town if measures be not taken to prevent it. Jos. Pope." " Spenceu, Jul}' 5, 1793." An article in a warrant, Dec. 19, 1777, was "To see if any person will appear to take Phincas Leonard for any reasonable compeusation for the ensuing year." March 10, 1766, it was voted "that the Selectmen for the time being shall act discretionary with regard to warning persons to depart out of this district, who arc not legal inhabitants." The town pound, when first erected, was built upon the common, near the church. The date of its erection is not known. In March, 1768, it was voted "to build a new pound with stone ; said pound is to be 30 feet within, the walla six feet and a half high and capt with timber." Seven pounds was appropriated for binlding it. It appears that it was as little used tiien as the pound is at the present day, for in a warrant dated March 26, 1772, was an article "to see if the District will take the pound to help underpin the meeling-honsc." The CATTLE REGULATIONS. 339 vote was in the negative. la 1790 the town voted "not to take the pound to fence the burying-ground and erect another in some suitable place." In 1791 it was voted "not to move the pound." At this time there was a demand for more room on the common for horse-sheds, and in 179G half an acre of land was bought of Rev. Joseph Pope to enlarge it, and in March of that year it was voted "to build a town pound on Jlr. Jeremiah Whittemorc's land, at the corner of the town road where it turns to Benjamin Gleason's, of the same bigness of the old one, three sides of stone and one of wood." The pound was constructed by Mr. WLittemore for eleven pounds, and finished in November of that 3'car. In 1825 the pound was repaired, but it has been used but little. For many years it was voted at the annual meeting "that swine run at large, being yoked and ringed as the law directs." In the early days of the district cattle were allowed to pasture upon the common ; for in 1754 it was voted "that strangers' cattle should be charged two shillings and eighteen pence per head, and sheep one shilling per head, to run on the common." A histor\' of the town was written by James Draper, Esq., in 1840, and re-writteo by him in 18G0. 340 TOWN OF STERLING. STERLING BY REV. ABIJAII P. MARVIX. CHAPTER I. FORMATION AND ORIGIN niYSICAL ASPECTS INDIAN DEALINGS PROGRESS OF SETTLEMENT RAIDS AND DISTRESSES — WAR HISTORY INCORPORATION NOTES AND INCIDENTS. From a corner of the simple domain of Lancaster, was the town of Sterling carved, yet it is one of the larger towns of the Commonwealtli, being above the average in the number of square miles. The Lidian name for this section of the old town was 'Woonsechocksett, wliich, in the usage of the the white men, was parted in tiio middle, and spelled Chocksett, or Choxett. Sometimes one of the t's was omitted. The aborigines, in their idleness, would tind time to ])ronouncc long and bard-sounding words, which the busy Yankee broke into small and portable parts of speech. The town contains between twentj'-scveu and twenty -eight square miles of territory, and seventeen thousand three hun- dred and si.\ty-ono acres of land. The centre is in latitude 42° 2G', and it is twelve miles in right lino to the court-house in Worcester. The distance to Boston is about forty miles. By rail or road, the distance to both places is somewhat increased. The surface of the country is very uneven, being broken into large and lesser hills in every part, yet there is very little "unimprovable land" in the town. In this respect the soil is divided as follows in the State census, 1875. Land under crops — acres, 4,.300| ; orchards, 28^ ; unimproved land, 0,142^ ; wood- land, 3, 820^; unimprovable land, 53^ acres. The soil was ntiturally good, being moist and fertile; and it is " ini[)iovablc," to a high degree, under the hand of skilled labor. It is good for tillage, pasturage, and mowing. All kinds of grain and vegetables, common to New England, are produced in abundance. As the town lies between the Nashua Valley on the east, and the valley of Still River on the west, it is made up of several irregularly parallel ridges e.xtending north and south, T\ith pleasant vallej's between them. There are four or live elevations that take the name of distifict hills, but most of them PHYSICAL FEATURES. 341 belong to ranges of unequal height. The west flank of George Hill is in Sterling. Redstone Hill, so called from the stone colored with iron, is east of the centre. Kendall Hill is south hy east of the centre. Fitch's Hill is directly west of the centre. Rowley's Hill is north of this, and Justice Hill is in the extreme north-west part of the town. The first four form a barrier round the centre, with openings north and south. On the east side of the central village a stream flows north into Wckcpckit Brook, and enters the Nashua in the west of Lancaster. Another brook flows south, on the west side of the village, into Waushacum Lake. These hills, and the long ridges to which the}' belong, are all covered with living green to their rolling summits, as are the valleys between. In the middle of the south end of the town is ^Yest Waushacum Pond, or lake, covering one hundred and eighty acres. East of this, some sixty rods, lies East "Waushacum, having an ai-ea of one hundred and ninety acres. This is connected with the other by a brook, and the waters of both lakes are discharged by an evcrflowing stream into Still River, near Oakdale. These lakes are unsurpassed by an}' in the county, in the combination of particulars which make up delight- ful scenery. The water is pure and sweet. The shores are partly wooded and partU- cultivated land. The horders and bottom are sandy or pebbly, and the sides wind in many graceful curves that delight the eye. The laud in one direction is level ; in another rises in gentle swells; and, in still another, in bolder outbnes. In plain sight rises the rounded mass of Wachusett. Xor are these lakes without a wild and tender historical interest. Here, between the lakes, or just on the southern side of the intervening land, wag the capital of Sholan, the good sachem, who welcomed the English, and always lived in amity with Ihem. In his wigwam Indian councils were held, and around it were Indian games and sports. Here was a church of converted Indians, with their pastor, elder, deacon, and constable, armed with a "i)lack stafl" and power," to keep the peace and suppress powwows and di'unkenness. Here were Indian regattas, called by another name, where the light canoes sped over the water, swift as the pickerel darted beneath. Here came Philip in the spring of 1070, and infused his revengeful and ambitious spirit into Sam, the unworthy grandson of Sholan. And here, also, was what the local aimal- ists arc pleased to style the first naval contest in the inland waters of Massa- chusetts. In May, 1070, Capt. Henchman, when marching towards the Connecticut Vallej', was told that a part}' of the enemy was at Waushacum. He turned hither and surprised a party in their canoes taking fish. He led an instant attiick upon them, in their boats, when seven of the Indians were killed, and twent^'-nine taken prisoners. A little north of the west end of East Waushacum, are the debris of an old mine, which was formerly wrought with energy, though with poor results. Shafts were sunk as early as 1755 in search of silver ore. A Swede was the head workman, and he was in the mine at the time of the great earthquake. Ore in paying quantities was not found, and the work ceased. The opening 342 TOWN OF STERLING. remains, though nearly filled with water. Tradition says the shaft was carried more than a hundred I'ect into the bowels of the earth, and the mass of brt)ken pieces of "pluml)ago, nickel, sulphates of copper, and of iron, quartz, and various other minerals," confirm the statement. A rich carbonate of iron, con- taining ninety per cent, of pure metal, is said to have been the chief product. It was nearly seventy-seven years after the pioneers of Lancaster had 1)uilt their log-houses, before the territory now constituting Sterling, received any permanent white settlers. This territory did not, originally, belong to Lancaster. When Sholan sold the land to Thomas King, about 1742-3, he retained all lying west of the Lancaster original line. It was not till about the beginning of the eighteenth century, that Tahanto sold a tract four miles wide, and ten or twelve miles long, west of Lancaster, to John Prcscolt and others, inhal)itants of Lancaster, which purchase was confirmed by a grant of the General Court in 1713. Seven years later, in 1720, the first white settlers took up their abode in this tract. They were the children of Lancaster parents, probably settled, in most eases, on parcels of land which had fallen to their fathers in some of the numerous "divisions" made by the Lancaster pro- prietors. Gamaliel Beaman, son of John, and grandson of Gamaliel, who came to Lancaster in 1059, was the first permanent resident. lie was innnc- diately followed by Samuel Sawyer, Benjamin Houghton, David Osgood, and Jonathan Osgood. They had .all erected houses, according to the statement of the late Isaac Goodwin, Esq., before 172(5, and they are supposed to have been the only inhabitants at that date. They all settled near each other, north-west of the meeting-house. As the history of Sterling, or Chocksett, as thus named, was included in that of the mother town, until 1740, when il became a precinct or parish, only a few incidents in the early annals will be related in this con- nection. One or two must have a place. There was a small tribe of Indians not far from the present centre of the town, with whom the whites lived on terms of friendshi[). These Indians were allowed to observe their own customs and laws, so far as these did not interfere with the peace and safety of the whites. One of this little tribe, having killed a fellow-Indian, was tried without delay, found guilty, and "forthwith tied to a tree, and shot to death." This was on a Sunday morning, and the murder, arrest, trial, and execution, all took place in the course of a few hours. The whites provided decent grave-clothes for the murdered man, but the "rights of sepulture were denied to the criminal ; his mangled remains were thrown, naked, into the same grave with those of his victim." The other notal)lc event took place bifore the settlement, but within the bounds, of the present town. The scene has been known as "The Indian Fight," and is situated about three miles north-west of the centre. In 1707, a party of Indians went to Marlborough, and captured Jonathan Wilder, a native of Lancaster. They were pursued and overtaken, when a severe contest began. The Indians were twenty-four in number, and the whites not more RECORD IN THE WARS. 343 than one-half as man}'. The Indians, when attacked, killed their prisoner, instead of surrendering him ; hut they paid dear for their cruelty. Nine of their number were slain, and probahiy several were wounded. The whites lost two men. If the whole of the pursuing party had joined in the combat, prob- al)Iy few, if any, of the Indians would have escaped. In 1733, the settlers having increased rapidly in numljer, and being reniote from the meeting-house, petitioned for the right of a township. Their effort was unsuccessful ; but in 1743 they were made a corporation, and thus became the Second Parish, or Precinct of Lancaster. This gave them a (piasi-inde- [)cudence, and most of their parochial affairs were under their own manage- ment. A church was gathered, Dec. li), 1744, and Rev. John .Mellen was settled as pastor. The dysentery prevailed to such an extent in 175G, that this was called the year of the "great sickness." In a population of about eight hundred, forty- two were buried in seven weeks. The disease was principally among children, but in some cases whole families were cut off. The proportion of deaths to the survivors was one to nineteen. There was what has ever been known as the "great earthquake," in November of the preceding year, and the disease was attributed to that as the cause; because the mortality was greatest in the vicinit\^ of the greatest shock, which was near the corners of Stei'ling, Holdcu, and West Boylston — a little north-west of Oakdalc. The deaths in Iloiden were forty; in Sterling, forty-two; and in Boylston, twenty. In the last French and Indian war, 175G-I53, a large number of men were engaged, upwards of twenty of whom fell victims. Four were slain Sept. 8lh, 1755, in the " morning action," so called, on Lake George. It was in this war that Col. Asa Whitcomb became conspicuous as a veteran warrior. When the Revolution occurred, he was a leader of the people; and so attached were the soldiers of his regiment to their old commander, that when, at the organ- ization of the army, after the battle of Bunker Hill, ho was superseded ou account of age, they refused to serve unless he was rc-instatcd. General Washington, after inquiring into the case, immediately restored him to his command. As Chockselt, though still a part of Lancaster, had a distinct military compan}' of its own, and sent many soldiers into the field iu the Revo- lutionary War, under AVhitcomb and other olficers, the patriotic action of the people deserves this honorable mention. The inhabitants had never ceased, duritig fort}' years, to desire a separate town organization. On one or two occasions Lancaster had consented to tho division, but on terms which did not satisfy the residents in Choeksett. As all the expensive bridges were in (he valley of the Nashua, and would be a great bill of expense, the old town claimed that the new one should take upon itself some of the cost of keeping up these necessary means of travel and trans- portation. At one time the Choeksett people agreed to keep open the bridge between South Lancaster and the Old Common — probably because it was on 344 TOWX OF STERLING. the main line of travel from their centre to Boston, and therefore presented an equitable claim on their support. But this plan fell through, as did all others, till 1781, when, on the 2,jlh of April, the General Court granted an act of incorporation. The event was hastened by the fact that the people of Chocksctt, by way of retaliation for similar action, rallied at a town meeting, and took all the important town offices into their own hands, and voted that the town meetings should be held in their meeting-house. Though the majority of the inhal)itants was still with the old town, yet the spirit of the Second Pre- cinct, in achieving this coup d'etat, brought them to terms, and the town agreed to the plan of separation, and became willing to have their children depart ou their own terms. The residents in Chocksett had set their hearts on having a strip, about a mile wide, on the east side of the original west line of Lancas- ter, assigned to their territory, and carried the point. Indeed, they had their own way in almost every question in controversy. Like a son, too wilful to he under jiarental control, l)ut whom the parent is still proud (f, the .new town went ofl' with the old town's benediction. It took the name of Sterling, in honor of Lord Sterling, a Scotch general in the army of the Revolution. By a sui)plemcntary act, passed in 1703, all difficulties were removed ; and since that period, sa3s the former historian of Sterling, " few towns have lived in greater harmony, or hava been more assiduous in the interchange of kind offices than those of Sterling and Lancaster." The town being now established, its annals will be briefly sketched in the order of time. In the time of Shays' rebellion, some of the inhabitants were iu sympathy with the movement, but none of (hem joined the insurgents in the field. When the question of approving the adoption of the Constitution of the United States was submitted to the people, Sterling was one of the seven towns in the county which chose a delegate to the convention, who voted in the affiiniative. This delegate was Capt. Ephraini Wilder, a true son of the old stock of Lancaster Wilders, and grandfather of the Hon. Marshall P. Wilder. In 178G, and ten years later, the "canker rash," so called, prevailed as an epidemic, and many children died. In each season it was followed liy a malig- nant dysenter}', which was very fatal. The first meeting-house was built by the town of Lancaster, in the year 1742 — about the time when the Second Parish was authorized; but by ITOH it had fallen into deca^-, and the population had become loo numerous to bo accommoilaled within its narrow walls. Measures were therefore taken to erect a new and larger house, which was dcilicated on the first Sunday of the year 1800. The cost was $8,500 — an unusual amount to be devoted to such a pnr|)(;se, in those dajs. It was, for many years, the most elegant and costly bouse of worship in the county. A fact is stated in connection with the first meeting-house, which shows how great a social revolution occurred in many towns in the time, and in consc- RELIGIOUS INIATTERS. 345 qucnco of, the War of the Revolution. The fact is this : the pews in the old nicctiiig-house were never sold, but the people were annually "seated." The luan who paid the highest tax had the first ehoice, and so on in succession. In many places other than money considerations had infiuenco in "dignifying the pews." Tiie changes in property among the inhabitants of StcrliiiGr in the Revolution were such that many of the best pews came into the possession of tenants ; and thus men of humlilo origin tool; the foremost seats " to the great discomfiture of some of the most patrician families." Another fact shows how a patriot in the War of Independence became impf)verished on account of Irs love of country. Col. Whitcf)mb, besides holding the most impoi'tant offices in the town, was representative in the General Court, justice of the peace, deacon in the church, and a military officer. lie bad such zeal in the national cause, and such confidence in his countrymen, that he pledged his whole for- tune upon the security of the paper currency. The paper promises became worthless and his whole property was swept away. In old ago ho removed to Princeton, where he died in abject poverty. But he never lost his character. Conscious integrity and exalted piety raised him above thcordinar} raisfortuncs of life. The first town house, properly so called, was built in Sterling in 1802-3, it being the universal custom in those days to hold town meetings in the meeting- house. This marks the beginning of an important change for the purpose of preserving the house of worship to its sacred uses. CHAPTER II. FinST MEETIXG-nOUSE — CnUUCn CONTROVERSIES — PASTORAL SUCCESSION OTHER RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES — AGRICULTURE — MECUANIC INDUSTRIES — HOTEL — SCHOOLS AND EDUCATION — THE WAR OF THE REBELLION — LOCAL FEATURES, CLIMATE, &C. NOTABLE AND WORTHY PEOPLE. A DRIEF view of ecclesiastical afi'Liiis may be taken at this point in the his- tory of the town. The first meeting-hiuise in Ciiocksett was built, as we have seen, in 1742. A church was formed, Dec. P, 1714, and the Rev. John IMcllen was ordained at (he same time. Ilis wife was Rebecca, a d lughter of the Ilev. John Prentice. ^Ir. Mellcn was a man of superior ability and of competent learning. Perhaps he had no equal in the vicinit}-, or in the county, when in t!ie mtitiirity of his powers. His pastorate was peaceful during many years, but was exposed to all the evil influences of the period of Indian wars preceding the Revolution. Morals were relaxed, and errors in doctrine crept in by degrees. There is reason to believe that his views underwent some VOL. 11—44 346 TOWN OF STERLING. inodificiitiou in tlie course of 3'c'!irs, hut when charged with departure from the faith, be made a successful defence. However, causes of dissalisfiiction increased, and at hist, a few years liefore the Revohition, when the public mind was seething witli ihc spirit of liberty, an occasion occurred which was seized upon to oust him from his place. He asserted the veto pawner of the clergj^ ; his people rejoctc'd it, and in the struggle which ensued, while he was sustained by councils, his people linally succeeded in closing the pulpit against him. The case, in brief, was this : Mr. Goss of Bolton was dismissed by his people with- out the intervention of a council. The ministers in the vicinit}', and their churches generally, at first sided with Mr. Goss, and refused fellowship with the church in Roltou. A number of brethren belonging to the Bolton church presented themselves at a communion season in Sterling and asked the privi- lege of partaking the sacred emblems. To admit them to the Lord's table would bo to acknowledge their good standing in the church. A majority of the church in Sterling were willing to receive them. Mr. Melicn opposed their reception, and at length, when voted down, undertook to veto the action of the church. He retired, and the administration of the Lord's Supper was thus prevented. The matter could not rest here, and, alter a long contest, the church held a meeting in Novemljer, 1774, when they jiroceeded to dissolve the pastoral relation. The parish concurred in this action. Mr. Melicn had a c()nsidcral)]c following, but the majority w-as against him, and he was finally excluded b}' violence from the pulpit. His friends united with him in main- taining separate woi'ship, either in his house or in a school-house, about ten years, when, iu 1784, he was called to settle in Hanover, where he was installed on the 7th of Fobruary. He remained there about twenty-one years, and then, on account of advancing age, asked a dismission in February, 1805. In all the controversy in Sterling, there was no impeachment of iiis moral and Christian character. The coimcils and the civil courts sustained him, but his endeavor to set up the authority of the minister against the decision of the brotherhood was a failure. In his family he was a pattern of the virtues, and his three sons, all graduates of Harvard, were an honor to their parentage. Two of them became highly respectable clergymen, and Prentice was chief justice of the Supreme Court of Maine. The Rev. Rufus Ilolcomb, a native of Simsbnry, Conn., and a graduate of Yalo College, was ordained as his successor, June 2, 1779. The church had rest, after the hmg contest, and an unusual degree of prosperity. This ha|)i)y condition lasted a whole generation ; but in March, 1814, measures were taken which showed a desire on the part of a majority of his people to have the pas- toral relation dissolved. Though painful to him, the separation was amicably effected. The Rev. Samuel Capen was ordained March 22, 1815, with a salary of $000 and a settlement of $400. The covenant of the church was altered from its former high-toned standard, but still retained such paragraphs as the followinjr : — LATER CHURCHES. 347 "In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, with humble dcpeiulence on the Holy Spirit, and with sincere repentance of all our sins, we solemnly enter into covenant with the Lord Jehovah." " We receive the Lord Jesus Christ as he is offered to us in the Gospel as the only Mediator between God and man, and through whom alone salvation may be obtained by the sinful children of men." ]\Ir. Capen was held in high esteem by the church and the people of the town generally, but inadequate support led to his withdrawal. The last sen- tence of a very appreciative vote of the town reads as follows: "It now only remains for us to wish him all the joys and hopes of the good Man, the jiolished Scholar, the sincere Friend and real Christian." The Rev. Peter Osgood was ordained Jime 30, 1819, and continued in the pastorate several ^-ears. Ilis successors have been Revs. Daniel Fosdick, Jr., T. Prentiss Allen, William II. Kuapp, E. B. Fairchild, Alpheus Nickorsou, Henry C. Bates, and Ilcury P. Cutting. The congregation during the pasto- rates of the first three or four ministers was large for a country town. In 182.5 the number of communicants was estimated t(j be between two hundred and fifty and three hundred. Mr. McUcn, in the course of thirty-four years, received two hundred and eighty-three into the church. Mr. Holcomb received three hundred and thirty-one in thirty-five years. The Univcrsalists began to have stated meetings iu 183G. The leading man in the establishment of the society was the late Samuel Sawyer, Esq. At dif- ferent times quite a number of ministers have supplied the deut the two who had a more permanent connection, were Rev. Rufus Pope and Rev. George Proctor. Since about 1853 no regular service has been maintained. There were Baptists in Sterling more than sixty years since, who often licld meetings in the western part of the town. About forty-five years ago — 1834 — a few women connected with the Unitarian Church set apart the hour be- tween eight and nine o'clock every Sabbath morning to pray for the influence of the Holy Spirit on the people. In the early spring of 1836, a (aw Baptists and Orthodox Congregationalists consulted together in regard to securing evangelical preaching in the place. They agreed to support public worship half the time, and each party to the union was to supply a minister a quarter of the time. The Rev. Josiah Clark, of Rutland, came first, and was followed Tjy Rev. Otis Converse (Baptist), of Grafton. Consultations were held in the winter of 1837, when it was agreed, as the Baptists were the majority, that they should take charge of the whole matter for the ensuing year. Dca. Au- gustine Holcomb, a Congregationalist, who was drawing near the close of life, recommended this, and subscribed sixty dollars for l)udding a Baptist meeting- house. In the month of January a meeting was held at the house of Col. Thomas II. Blood, when the Baptist society was constituted. The churth was formed July 24, Avhen eight brethren and four sisters signed the covenant. 348 TOWN OF STERLING. Tlio church was rocognizcd by a council held Aug. 9, 1837, when Rev. Cynis P. Grosvenor Avas instiillcd as pastor, and Levi Stnart was ordained as deacon, ileetings were held every Sahl)alh, but alternately in the village and in different seliool-honsos. A small house was altered into a chapel. The pastors since !Mr. Grosvenor have been as follows : Revs. George Waters, in whose ministry of three years eighty-three were added to the church, John Alien, O. Cunning- ham, S. Kenney, W. M. Guilford, J. II. Lerned, Gilbert Robins, Wm. Car- penter, S. II. Record, Samuel Cheever, George (). Atkinson, C. II. Iliekok, S. B Macomber, and J. C. Carpenter. One hundred and thirty-seven have been added to this church by baptism. The present number is fift}— four. At pres- ent the cliureh is without a pastor, but sustains the worship of God. The mecting-honsc was erected in 1843. The First Evangelical Congregational Society was organized and held its first meeting in the town hall, Oct. 19, 1851, under a warrant issued by William D. Peck, Esq. At a meeting held Jime 8, 1852, "by those church members who during the past yenr had been accustomed to meet in that place — the town hall — for public worship," it was voted to take the necessary measures to- wards organizing a "chtu'ch, of the Orthodox-Congregational order." Previous to this, the society had engaged the services of Rev. A. Rigelow and Rev. William B. Greene, as temporary suppliers. A council was called, which met June 22, 1852, and assisted in organizing a church of twenty-two persons, all of whom had been in connection with other churches. The sermon was preached by Rev. Joseph W. Cross, and Rev. William Paine offered prayer. March 21, 1853, the Rev. Mr. Greene, who had been the "officiating pas- tor," was requested to continue another year. In this year the society pur- chased the Universalist meeting-house. The Rev. Charles D. Lothrop was acting pastor in 1854. The next year, ^lay 9, the Rev. William Miller was installed as pastor of the church. lie continued in the ministry here until ill- health compelled him to resign in October, 1858. Rev. Joseph Cross of West Boylston, supplied the pulpit several months, and occasionally at other times. i\Ir. John C. Lal)aree began preaching in ISCl, and on (he 4th of Fel)ruaiT, 1803, was ordained as an evangelist. He remaiiied as acting pastor till the summer of 1805. Rev. Elbridge Gerry, Rev. John C. Paine, and Rev. Evarts B. Kent, officiated in 1807-70. Rev. Lucius D. Mcars was ordained Nov. 8, 1871, and remained till Sept. 9, 1873. His immediate successors as acting pastors were Rev. George I. Pierce, and Rev. Loring !>. ]\Iarsh. The Rev. Benjamin F. Perkins became acting pastor, Feb. 11, 1877. The present mem- bership of the church is sixt^'-five. Farming has alwa^'s been the chief occupation of the inliabit:uits. As an ngricultnral town. Sterling is surpassed by few, if any, towns in the county. The number of farms containing five acres and more is about two hundred, village house-lots not included. The value of these farms, by the census of 1875, was $784,423. The value of the houses and other buildings connected PRINCIPAL IXDUSTRIES. 349 with furms $237,175. The acres of land iu these farms was seventeen thousand three hundred and sixty-one, ail of wliich are improval)le except lil'ty-three. The value of domestic animals was $S5,G79. The total value of land, build- ings, fruit-trees, antl vines, domestic animals and agricultural implements, was $!)27,184. The population was fifteen hundred and sixty-niue ; the total val- uation was $1,073, GGS ; and the total products of the year, $302,800. This amount included products of manufactures, which were valued at $1(57,022. In some years more than eight3--threc thousand gallons of milk have been sold. Among the chief industries, besides farming, are chair-mtdcing, earthen- ware, leather, lumber, and meal. The value of chairs made annually was, by the census of 1875, $1G.948 ; value of earthen-ware, $30,000 ; value of leather, $45,000; value of lumber and meal, $56,060. The business has changed in the course of years. Formerly the chair bu>i- ness was greater than at present. In 1837 there were twenty-four manufacto- ries of chairs and cabinet ware ; and though they were not large, the total value of the products was $53,288. The number of hands employed was eighty. At that time palmdeaf hats and scythe-snaths were made for sale. As long ago as 1827, and in preceding years. Blood & Rice did a large business as hatters. The chair business w.as formerly carried on by Gilson Crown and Joel Pratt, and is now pursued by James "W. Fitch, at the Centre, and by Edward Purpec at Pratt's Junction. Tanning has been pursued for two or three generations. The late Dea. Cy- rus llolbrook had a large tannery. Charles M. Bailey came later, and then removed to Clinton. At present, Charles II. Newton is iu the business, his specialty being the making of calfskins. At West Sterling the business of pottery has been pursued man}' j^ears, where the clay is abundant and very good. Snow & Coolidgc are the proprietors, and manufacture many articles of carthen-uare, as milk-pans, flower-pots, &c. Their ornamental vases and pitchers are elegant iu shape and well executed. At Sterling Junction was a saw and grist mill, which was burned in 1875. The present owner is Asa Beel, an ingenious wheelwright. At the south side of Waushacuin pond large ice-houses arc stored with ice every season by parties living in Worcester, Piovidence and Attleborough. The Central Hotel has long been known as a house of entertainment for travelers. Formerly, stages from the north to Worcester, and from the west to Boston, made this a stopping-place ; and many travelers by private teams, as well as teamsters conveying immense loads (affreight, found good acconmio- dations and a pleasant temi)orary home. The Rev. T. P. Allen, formerly pastor of the Unitarian church, opened a private school, some forty years ago, at a beautiful location a little west of the centre of the town, where many scholars were boarded and instructed. The school flourished and acquired a good reputation, under him and some of his successors. 350 TOWN OF STERLING. beginning. While y^t a part of Lancaster, Chocksctt receivcil an equitable .share of the appropriations for schools. The grammar school was hcM in the second precinct a proportional part of the time. Some years the time was divided equally, — the master being in Lancaster six months, and the same length of time in the second precinct. Sometimes the proportion was as bix to five months. After the incorporation of the town, nearly a hundred years since — 1781 — the support of the schools was never neglected. The territory being large, and the people being settled in all parts soon after the Revolution, if not before, it was necessary to keep open a large number of schools. The terms were short ; and sometimes a good teacher passed from one school to another in succession. The sums annually voted for schools bore a close relation to that set apart for the salary of the minister and the support of the poor. The appropriations for these purposes increased gradually. In 182.') the following was the expenditure for the above objects : Support of schools, $800; minister's salary, $700; support of the poor, $500. At the present time the number of schools kept is twelve. The number of scholars between five and fiflecn is three hundred and one; the whole number attending school is throe hundred and fifty ; and the average attendance is two hundred and sixty-three. The amount raised by taxes for the support of the schools, not including superintendence, printing or repairs, was $3,000. This gives $11.29 to each scholar between five and fifteen years of age. The time kept by the schools is seven months and nine days. When the rebels fired upon Fort Sumter in April, 18C1, the citizens of Sterling were moved as one man to support the government. The spirit of the Revolution flamed out in speech and action. The general feeling found expression in public meetings as well as in family gatherings. In sermons and praj-ers in the house of God, the love of country and the hatred of slavery, which threatened to whelm the nation in ruin, had fervent utterance. The first legal town meeting to act upon matters relating to the war was held April 20, when, according to the town records, it was "voted unanimously to appro|)ri- ate a sum not exceeding three thousand dollars, to aid, eqnip and uniform such of our fellow-townsmen as shall be called upon, or voluntarily enlist, as sol- diers in defense of the government, and to assist their families during their absence." " At the November meeting a vote was passed, appropriating a sum not exceeding one hundred dollars, for the purpose of aiding the ladies of the town in procuring articles for use in the hospitals of the army now in the field for the support of the government." This was to be paid by the selectmen to the "Ladies' Patriotic Relief Society," as it might be needed. At a meeting held July 21, 1862, the selectmen were authorized to pay a bounty of one hundred dollars to each volunteer who should enlist for this year's military service and bo credited to tho~ quota of the town. On the 12th of September it was voted to pay a bounty of one hundred dollars to each LOCAL NOTES. 351 citizen of Sterling who should enlist in a company then forniiiig in the town for nine months' service. In 1804, April 4, the town voted to "raise :i sum equal to one hundred dollars per man of the quotas of the town, under the orders of the president, dated Oct. 7, 1803, and Feb. 1, 1804. On the 15th of April it was voted to borrow seventeen hundred and tifty dollars, to procure fourteen men to fdl the quota of the town. June IG, it was "voted to pay ono hundred and twenty-five dollars, under the direction of the selectmen, for each volunteer procured to fill the quota of the town under anj^ future call of the President of the United States, previous to March 1, 180j." "The town," says Gen. Schoulcr, "continued to raise raone}-, recruit volunteers and pay bounties to the end of the war." The town clerk and treasurer during the j'ears of the war was AVilliam D. Peck, M. D. The selectmen, some in one year and some in another, were the following: — Perley Bartlett, Asa Keyes, Ed\vard Burpee, d. S. Butterick, Josiah Phelps, James A. Pratt, Ephraim Fairbanks, Ira Sawyer, ILnry E. Kendall and Moses B. IIe3-wood. Sterling supplied for the war one hundred and seventy-eight men, which was a surplus of thirteen above all demands. The whole amount of money appropriated and expended by the town on account of the war. exclusive of State aid, was $20,472.09; the amount paid by the town for State aid was, in 1801-5, $9,809,30 ; total, $29,3 12. 05. The contributions of private citizens, men and women, cither in money or articles prepared for the sick and wounded soldiers, were liberal. In 1800 the town erected a handsome granite monument on the Common, in the centre of the town, in memory of the soldiers of Sterling who had died in the military service of the governmeift dining the Rebellion. AVhen the monument was dedicated, June 10, 1807, the late Rev. Dr. George Putnam, of Roxbury, delivered the address. He was a native of the town ; and it is on record that he was present at one of the town meetings for raising men or money to carry on the war, when he made a "stirring speech." Sterling has a town hall, a library, not large, but growing and select, a spirited Farmers' Club, and a post of the Grand Army of the Republic. The town is among the most health}' in Ihn State. There have been numer- ous cases of great longevity in every generation. The period from 1800 to 1822 may be taken as a fair illustration of this fact. During this period there were eighteen deaths of persons over ninety years of age ; one was ninety- seven; one reached to a hundred years; and another was one hundred and four or five j-ears old. The majority were females, and were widows at the time of their decease. The oldest was a colored woman. Among the prominent citizens of Sterling may bo mentioned Capt. Ephraim Wilder, who voted in favor of the National Constitution, when oidy five (besides himself and Hon. John Sprague, of Lancaster,) delegates from the county in the State .Convention, voted in the affirmative. Col. Asa Whitcomi/s name will always confer honor upon his native town. It is sad to remember 352 TOWN OF STERLING. that devotion to the welfare of his couiiti y, was the cause of liis poverty and self-exile to another town in hi^s old age. In more recent times, Moses G. Thomas, Esq , and Col. Thomas II. Blood, justice of the peace and State senator, have been conspicuous. Several who were born in the town have been noted or distinguished in other places of residence. Of those who have deceased may be mentioned the three sons of Rev. Mr. Mcllen, who were graduated at Harvard College, and tilled reputable positions in the ministry and on the bench. The Rev. Dr. Kendall, long the miniotcr of the ancient church in Plymouth, and the late Dr. Kendall, an eminent jjhysician in Clinton, were sons of Sterling. The Hon. Amos Kendall, who was Postmaster-General, in the cabinet of General Jackson, was of the same connection. Isaac Goodwin, Esq., a lawyer of good reputation, and an able writer on historical and other subjects, was born in Sterling, but in mature life, took up his abode in Worcester. The Rev. Mr. Capen, after leaving the town, became jjastor of the ILiwes Place Society in South Iloston. Frank Capen, the "weather prophet," hails from Sterling. Dr. W. F. IIol- tomli, the eminent surgeon and denti»t of Xew York, and lion. John A. Goodwin, of Lowell, arc natives of the town. A m.an of singuhir history and character made this town his home during many years. Ills death occurred March 21, 17G5. His name was Sebastian Smith, and he was born in Si)ain. He served in the English tlcet when young, imder Admiral Sir Cloudcsl}' Shovel. In the words of Mr. Isaac Goodwin, ho "had acquired a considerable estate, chiefly by trading on a limited scale. Ho sustained a good moral character, and having been deprived of the advantages of an early education, he generously determined to appropriate all his means to supply that deficiency in others. Having been educated in the superstitions of his country, where the Holy Scriptures are a "sealed book," he took great delight in hearing the reading of those holy oracles, and i'ov this purpose he ])resented to the parish a large folio Bible, on condition that it should be road as a part of public worship. This injunction has ever since been duly regarded." But the "Sebastian Bible," so called, having by long usage become mutilalod, a new one was procured for the use of the pulpit. Mr. Smith gave all his pi-operty in public and private charity. He had no family. To the church he gave two valuable silver tankards, and also left one hundred pounds as a bequest, which were to be expended in educating the })oor children belonging to the parish, or town. The money bequest was entirely lost in the Rcvcjlution, when many other funds were wasted or diverted from their desisruated uses. ABORIGINAL INHABITANTS. 353 STURBRIDGE BY A. C. MORSE, ESQ. CHAPTER I. INDIAN OCCUPATION — ELIOT'S MISSION — LAND GRANTS — FIRST PROPRIETOR- SHIPS DESCRIPTION OF THE TRACT INCORPORATION OF THE TOWN APPROACH OF THE REVOLUTION A SHARER IN THE BOSTON TEA PARTY SOLDIEUS' LIST CIVIL CONDITION IN 1792 SEPARATION OF SOUTIIBRIDGE LOCAL RECOLLECTIONS REPRESENTATIVES. The territory now known as Stiirbridgc, according to its Indian name was "Tautousque." In 1682 the whole Nipmuck country, from the north of Massa- chusetts to Nashaway, at the junction of the Quincbaug and French rivers — a tract fifty miles long and twenty wide — was made over to the Massachusetts government by the Indians, for the sum of fifty pounds and a reservation of land. This is probably the way and time these lands were acquired. This vicinity was inhabited by a tribe of Nipmncks (Nipnets), Quabaugs, in the north-west and Brookfield, Wabbagaqncts in the south-east in AVoodslock. We have no history so far as the aborigines of this vicinity are concerned. They hunted and fished our ponds and rivers, traversed the hills and valleys, and passed away without a memorial, excepting the name of our river — Quin- ebaug. The Indian apostle, Rev. John Eliot, the most celebrated of all Indian missionaries, having learnt their language, he began traveling and preaching to them through this vicinity in 1()46, and continued diligent and persevering in his cflorts for their instrnction nntil his death in 1690. He made a transla- tion of the whole Bible into the Indian language, which was printed in Cam- bridge in 1663. He was the Indians' friend ; which fact was so fully appreciated by two of the Quabaug chiefs — Wattalloowekin and Nakin — that they gave him a tract of one thousand acres, in 16r)5, in the vicinity of Alum Pond (called by the Indians, "Pookookapog Pond"). This grant was confirmed liy the legislature, in 1714, to John Eliot, a grandson of the aposlle. In the year 1644 a tract of land was granted to John Winthrop, Jr., which was not sur- veyed, giving definite bounds until the year 1715, containing four square miles, covering all that part of the Quincbaug River beginning at the cast, VOL. 11.^ 354 TOWN OF STUEBRIDGE. nearly opposite Sturbridge Centre, and extending west into Brimfield. In 1714, Gov. Gordon Saltonstall selected his tract of two thousand acres, lying north of the Wiiithrop tract, adjoining on the west the Eliot tract, of which ciglit hundred acres were in this town and two hundred in Drooktield. In the year 1725, the first petition is hclieved to have been sent in to the Cteneral Court at Boston for a grant of land lying between Oxford, Brimfield, Brookfield, and the province line, by the inliabitants of Jledfield and other towns. A second petition was also sent in the year 1727, at which time notice was taken by the Honorable Court to that degree, that a committee of three was chosen to visit and examine the lands prayed for, and make a report of same. This, when done, was returned to the court ; to wit, that said lands were worth one thousand pounds. No further action being taken, a third pe- tition was sent, in 1729, by William Ward of Southborough, Joshua Morse, and forty others, of Medfield, considering it, in their opinion, to be of the value of one thousand pounds, for the improvement (jf themselves, their posterity, and also for the enlarging of the province. The General Court did not consider the land asked for capable of making a township, there being so much poor land in the tract. However, in August of that year, they voted that the prayer of the petitioners be granted, on condi- tions that they shall, within seven j-ears' time, settle and have actually on the spot fifty families, each of which to build a house eighteen foot square at least, to break up and improve seven acres of land, settle an Orthodox minister, &c. William Ward, Esq., was empowered and directed to regulate and assemble the grantees for the purpose of choosing officers to conduct the affairs of the plan- tation. The first meeting was called to meet at the house of Joshua Morse in Medfield on the Gth day of Nov., 1729. They accordingly met, to the number of forty-two, as follows : — Mclatiah Bourn, Thomas Gleason, Ezra Clark, William Ward, Moses Gleason, Samuel Ellice, Ezra Boum, Jonas Gleason, David Ellice, Sliiihall Goram, Joshua Morse, Francis ^loquett, Thomas Learned, Joseph Plimpton, Ilenrj' Adams, Nathan Fisk, Nathaniel Smith, Icbaljod Harding, Henry Fisk, Solomon Clark, John Plimpton, Eben- czer Leaincd, Timothy Ilamnnt, Josiah Cliency, Nalium Ward, William Plimpton, Capt. John Dwight, Gcrshom Kcycs, Ephraira Partridge, Capt. John Boyden, Zenobee- bell Eager, Abraham Hardins, Nathan Morse, John Shearman, Moses Harding, James Dennison, Joseiih Baker, Josiah Ellice, Joseph Marsh, Jonas Houghton, Peter Balch, Capt. Joseph Clark." The meeting was opened by AVilliam Ward, who acted as moderator, when the following officers were chosen : Abraham Harding, clerk ; John Plimpton, collector; Wm. Ward, Joshua Morse, Capt. Ebenezcr Learned, Capt. John Dwight, and Abraham Harding were chosen to bring forward the settlement i of the township according to directions of the General Court. This tract was I then called Dummer, after Lieut. Gov. Wm. Dumuier. The second meeting, j the lots were prepared for draught, it was voted that Joseph Morse, son of I PIONEER SETTLERS. 355 Joshua Morse, shall be the person to draw them all. The names of the foU lowing wore adniittctl into partnership with the rest soon after the grant was obtained : Xohemiah Alien, Moses Allen, Seth "Wight, David Morse, Moses Marcy, David Shumway, and John Harding. In 1731 the settlement began to be called " New Mcdiield." The meetings of tlie proi)rietors were generally held in Medfickl, occasionally at Framingham. It niu-t not 1)0 understood, however, that they all actually removed to 1hi-i lilacc. Some enlisted in the undertaking for the purpose of obtaining a set- tlement for their children; others joined merely to aid those who were moro directly interested, and shortly after sold their right, in whole or in part, to such as were willing to settle here on the terms prescribed by the General Court. These hardy pioneers, if tradition tells the truth, came chiefly on foot and alone into an almost unbroken forest, in the spring, to labor upon their allotments until the commencement of winter, and then return to their homes, until about the time they had erected their dwellings and outhouses, felled the forests, and brought into cultivation the quantity of laud prescribed in the conditions annexed to the act, that the}' might bo entitled to an act of incorpo- ration for a town, with authority' to choose the necessary officers for the purpose of a proper organization thereof. Notwithstanding the idea prevailed at the General Court that this tract of land w-as very poor, there is a large quantity that is very good, though it is to a largo extent mountainous and rocky. The scenery at many points is very picturesque and romantic. The principal elevations are Walker Mountain, in the north, overlooking Walker Pond, and Cedar Pond, which latter contains an area of one hundred and eighty-two acres; Leadmine Mountain in the south- west, overlooking Leadmine Pond, of about one hundred and sixty-three acres; Mount Dan in the north-west corner, having Alum Pond, a beautiful sheet of water of two hundred and eighty-two acres, lying near its base, and Fisk Ilill in the cast. Henry Fisk one of the original proprietors and his brother Daniel, pitched their tent near the top of the hill, which has ever since borne their name. It has one of the most elevated and beautiful swells of land iu town, possessing fertility, and commanding an exten-ivc ;ind delightful view. In every direction, the ej^e sweeps over an expanse of varied and lofty scenery, exhibiting spires, churches and villages, intcr- uiixcd with the lieautics of nature setting forth a rare assemblage of natural and artificial attractions. Shumway Hill, is another eminence which com- mands a delightful view of the surrounding country, developing more full}' the mountains of Monadnock, Wachusctt and Mount Tom. At the sixth meeting, Nov. 21, 1732, an article iu the notice to see "whether the proprietors will grant Moses Marcy a tract of land in consideration of his building a mill or mills at a place called the falls," no action was taken at this meeting. At the eighth meeting, Nov. 29, 1733, it was voted that "Moses Marcy shall have a tract of laud granted and given to him, to be of the value of one of the fifty- 35») TOWX OF STURBRIDGE. acre lots as are l:iid out in the second division, if he will build a grist-mill on Qiiinabaug river ut the dam where he hath built a saw-mill, before the last of September, 1736." The two mills were erected on the west side of the river, between the west end of the present d;mi and the central mill in Southbridge ; the east side of the river at that time belonged to Oxford. At the meeting, June 4, 1740, the town voted to grant Mr. Marcy forty acres in a lot on the south side of this town upon the Cedar Swamp Brook, and thirty-seven acres in a lot north of the meeting-house, called the Eel Weirs, for encouragement for building a grist-mill. Some years after this mill was I)uilt, Capt. Jacol) Alien, descendant of IMoses Allen the first settler, l)uilt a grist-mill, situated on the western l)ank, near the point where the large factory dam crosses the river above the Fiskdale mills. It was the first and only mill in the present town for many years. The proprietors having fulfilled the conditions in their grant ; they were incorporated into a town in June, 1738, by the name of Sturbridsre. The following is a copj' of the act of the Legislature : — An act for ertcting a new town in the County of Worcester, at a i)lantation catled New Meclfield, by the name of Sturbridge : " Whereas, The proprietors of a certain tract of land within the County of Worcester, called New Medfield, have fulfilled the conditions of their grant, and therefore |)raj- that they may be incorporated into a township, for want whereof they labor under great diffl- cuUies, — "Be it therefore enacted by His Excellency the Governour, Council, and Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the authority of the same, — " Sect. 1. That the tract of land lying between the towns of BrookBekl, Brimfield, Woodstock, Dudley, and Oxford, the Province line, and the ten thousand acres, so called, be and hereby is erected into a township t)y the name of Sturbridge. " Sect. 2. And that the inhabitants thereof be and hereby arc vested with all such powers, privileges, and immunities as the inh.ibitants of the other towns within this province are, or by law ought to be, vested with. [y the lieutenant-governor and others, which was occasioned by the odious stamp act. At a meeting Sept. 12, ITGG, to sec if the town will instruct their represen- tative in regard to making up the loss, the instruction was " to do it with si3 358 TOWN OF STURBRIDGE. niuch credit and as little charge to the Province as may be," the meaning of which w:is fully explained in their meeting in Novcmiier of the same year, when they voted not to make compensation for those losses. At this time, two or three companies of young men, in the disguise of Indians, are entitled to the honor of casting into Boston IIarl)or a cargo of tea. Among those was Mr. Samuel Ilohbs of this place. These Mohawks, in their boals, surrounded the freighted vessel, immediately boarded, and relieved her of her burden. This transaction, full of meaning, could not be misunderstood. The intelligence spread with electric velocity over the countr}-. It soon reached the cars of his majesty, and was received with no very pleasant chiotions. The Boston port bill was passed under this intelligence, prohibiting the lading or unlading of all goods in the port of Boston. 1774 was the memorable era of the last oppressive measure, — the paper blockade, — which was immediately followed by an armed force. At a meeting in 1774, the town, with united voice, voted, "after solenm prayer to God for direction," not to purchase any goods which should bo iin[)orted from England after a certain specified time. Aug. 25, 1774, a committee of five were chosen (Dea. Moses Weld, Timo- thy Newell, William MoKinstr}', John Salmon, and Mr. Benjamin Freeman) ti) consult and advise what is necessary and prudent to be done by the county ; :llso to meet the committees of other towns, and report, which was done and a|)i)rovcd by the town ; and on the 2Sth of September, 1774, the town voted to provide four half barrels of powder, five hundred weight of lead, and five hundred flints, and chose a committee to make provisions for the men in case tliey should be called away upon any sudden emergency in defence of our just rights, privileges, &o. James J(jhnson, Joseph Chenc}-, Henry Fisk, Hinsdale Clark, Ezekiel Upham, Stephen Gerould, and John Marsh constituted that committee. At the November 17th meeting, the town made additions to their stock of powder and lead ; also, Rev. Joshua Paine g-.we one-half barrel of powder, Henry Fisk three hundred weight of lead; and that all the men iu town from sixteen years old and upward shall meet at the meeting-house on the first Monday- of December next, at ten of the clock in the morning, with arms and Ammunition in order for viewing, at which time they met on the training field, formed, marched into the meeting-house in silence and good order. ^Vfter solemn piayer to God and singing. Rev. Joshua Paine preached a sermon from (he Psalms ; after which it was proposed to call over the list of the alarm men first, who numbered a hundred and three, of which there was some more than seventy years old. Two hundred and thirty-nine men from this town joined the armies which fought the battles of liberty during the Revolutionary strug- gle. After (he Declaration of Independence had been published to the world, the people of this town solemnly "engaged to support it with their lives and fortunes," and had actually transcribed it entire ou their town records. STATISTICS. 359 111 the year 1783, the whole niimher of ratable polls in town was 454. "Worcester at that time was only 540 ; Springfield, 549 ; Brookfield, G75. The follo\viiirk, A. C. Morse; Selectmeu, Simeon F. Marsh, Charles H. Allen, William Whittemore ; Overseers of Poor, Nathaniel Upham, Henry Haynes, Sanjuel Edgerton ; Assessors, George N. Bacon, Charles Anderson, Henry E. Hitchcock; Constables, D. R. Bland. P. C. Hooker, E. H. Cham- herlain ; Auditor, Charles V. Corey; Field Driver, Eugene W. Rice. The conditions on which lands were granted to the original proprietors, • Died in service. 364 TOWN OF STURBRIDGE. according to an act of Legislature in 1692, reqiiii'ed that they must, within seven 3-ear8 from the grant, settle an orthodox minister, and that every quali- fied voter shall pay his tax for the support of same. Before any regular society was established, James Dennison, Joseph Smith, Henry and Daniel Fisk, with several others in diflerent parts of the town, as they became acquaiutcd, met every Lord's Day for worship at their different places of abode. At the third meeting of the proprietors, Nov. 30, 1731, it was voted that they should build a meetinghouse as soon as they conveniently can, fifty feet in length, forty feet in width and twenty-two feet between sills and plates; that the said house shall be finished according to articles drawn to finish the meeting-house at Ilassauamisco (now Grafton) ; th:it it be built, covered and enclosed in the sp:ice of one year from that time, and finished in the space of two years. John Dwight, Jonas Houghton and Joseph Plimpton were chosen as a building committee. The spot of land selected for its site was "near the meeting of the roads, on the west side of Siig.ir Crook,"' i.e., a few rods south of the present Congregational church. The heirs of Gen. Saltonstall at that time owning the land, negotiations were immediately commenced and soon brought to a successful termination, by a deed of six acres, for and in consideration of the setting up of a mceling-houso upon it, with bur3iiig-ground, trainiiig-fiekl, &c. The 19th of Soptembor, 1733, (he house was dedicated, more than four years before the town was incorporated. Rev. Mr. Baxter of Medfield i)reached the dedicatory sermon, from Isaiah Ixiii. 5. Rev. Mr. Cowell was their first preacher. Rev. Caleb Rice was ordained on the 29th of September, 1736, at which time a church was organized coui^isting of fourteen members. Rjv. Peter AVhitney, author of a hi.-tory of the County of Worcester in 1793, gives the followi'^g sketch of i\Ir. Rice's character: "He was a pastor after God's heart! sound in faith! a good preacher! endowed with excellent gifts and very exemplary in life, as well as social and benevolent in his deportment." Mr. Rice closed both his life and ministry Sabbath-day, Sept. 2, 1759. The pulpit was supplied the following two 3ears by Messrs. Storrs, Whitney' and Mills. The insufficiency of accommodation in the old church induced the town to build a new house, which was erected in 1781, comi)k'ted and dedicated in 1787. The following ministers have supplied the pulpit : — Rev. Joshua Paine, commenced June, 1701, died Dec. 28, 1799; Rev. Otis Lane, commenccil December, 1800, dismissed February, 1819 ; Rev. Alvan Bond, commenced November, 1819, dismissed October, 1831 ; Rev. Joseph !S. Clark, commenced Deeom- bcr, 1831, dismissed December, 1838; Rev. David R. Austin, commenced Ma^-, 1839, dismissed October, 1851 ; Rev. Hubbard Bcebc, commenced Jinie, 1852, dismissed October, 1854 ; Rev. Sumner G. Clapp, commenced March, 185G, dismissed Scptemlicr, 18C2 ; Rev. Marshall B. Angier, commenced July, 18G3, dismissed June, 18G7 ; Rlv. Martin L. Richardson, commenced October, 1867. Mr. Richardson, the present pastor, is a native of Winchester, Mas*., and a graduate of Amherst College. In 18G8 the society erected a parsonage, ECCLESIASTICAL MATTERS. 3G5 situated north of the church, at an expense of $3,000. An account of Rev. Mr. Baxter of INIedtiekl, who consecrated the first church in this town, shows that our ancestors were not wholly free from witchcraft, "for on one occasion he went to reprove Goody Lincoln for the sin of practising witchcraft, and felt a strange pain in his leg on his return, which he attrihutcd to her ill influence." In the year 1747, near the close of the ministry of Rev. Caleb Rice, of the Orthodox Church, at that time styled the Standing Order, according to legis- lative favoritism in behalf of one religious denmninatiou to the detriment of all other religious bodies, fifteen members withdrew themselves from the old society, and established what has since been known as the Baptist church of Sturbridge. At that time they were stigmatized by the " Standing Order" as "New Lights," Separates or Separatists. They had for their preacher, Mr. John Blunt, who was afterwards killed in the French war, at the battle of Lake George. A house of worship was erected, which stood wiihin the present limits of Southbridgc, near Globe Village. Rev. William Ewing was their first minister. After a short ministry in this town, he removed, and the church was left without a regular pastor for several years. The members of this church, considering that it was enough for them to maintain their own minister, therefore refused to be taxed for the support of any other ; but still the civil law of the day refused to release them : consequently affairs were brought to a most unhappy issue. In the year 1749, Rev. Ebenczer ■Nlonlton, of the Baptist Church in Brimfield, baptized thirteen of their number, including Dea. Daniel Fiske, Dea. John Newell, Henry Fiske, and David Morse, their ruling elders. Soon after, Mv. Blunt and sixty others were baptized, which was the cause of much bitterness among those and the members of the church of the Standing Order. The following is quoted from a note in Benedict's "History of the Baptists": "Mr. Moidton, for preaching here, was seized by the constable, dragged out of the town, and thrust into prison as a stroller and vagabond; also, Dea. Fiske, John Corey, Jeremiah Barstow, Josiah Perry, and Johu Draper were imprisruied at Worcester gaol." In 17r)0 and 17ol, the assessors took from Abraham Bloyce a spiiming- whcel ; from Dea. Fiske, five pewter plates and a cow; John Pike, a cow; Jonalhan Perry, a saddle and steer; Mr. Blunt, a trammel, andirons, shovel, tongs, and a heifer; John Slreeter, a kettle and pot-hooks; from Benj. Rob- bins, Henry Fiske, John Perry, David Morse, Phineas Collier, John New-ell, and John Draper, siuuhy goods were taken. In 17.')2, town meetings were called to see if some agreement might not bo made satisfactory to .all for peace' sake. But nothing was done. One party had the authority of law on their side, the other being supported by the true and fundamental principles of religions freedom. In 1773, the town voted to exempt Jonathan Perry and others, notwithstanding their not giving in to the assessors certificates agreeable to law ; and the next 3G6 TOWN OF STURBRIDGE. year it was voted to leave out all persons professing to be Baptists from paying the Orthodox ministerial tax. In 1784 the society built a meeting-house on Fiskc Ilill, which was done and finished in 1786, its members at that time numbering eighty. The house on Fiske Hill having become decayed, a new iDccting-house was built, finished, and dedicated in January, 1833, on the ele- vation of ground on the south side of the road, south of the Congregational Churcli. In June, 1838, the society voted to move their church to ground given them for the purpose by Hon. Josiah I. Fiske, at Fiskdale Village (where it now stands) , which was soon after done at an expense of one thousand dollars. John Phillips was chosen deacon in 1799; was born June 29, 17G0; died in 1804, at the age of one hundred and four years. The following is a list of its pastors : — "Jordan Dodge, commenced Oct. 27, 1784, dismissed, 1778. Baldwin, Rathbinn, and Root, supplied to 179G. Zenas L. Leonard, fiom Sept., 179G. to Oct., 18.'!2. Abiel Fi^lier, supply. Addison Parker, from Jan. 8. 1833, to Dec. 12, ISS'j. Isaac Merriam, from Ang., 1836, to Jan., 1837. Orrin O. Stearns, from Sept., 1837, to Oct., 1839. Joel Kenney, from June, 1840, to May, 1843. J. Woodbury, from July, 1814, to Sept., 1847. Thomas Driver, from Dec. 1847, to Feb., 1849. Geo. E. Dorrencc, from April, 1850, to March, 1852. Addison Parker, from May, 1852, to Sept., 1855. Geo. W. Preston, from Dec., 18.^5, to May, 1858. Andrew Read, from Oct., 1858, to April, 18G2. J. M. Chick, from June, 18G2, to Aug., 18G4. Mr. Stevens, from Aug., 18G4, to April, 18G5. Wra. Reed, from April, 18G6, to March, 1867. J. T. Farra. from Nov., 1867, to Oct., 1869. Clias. A. Cook, from Dec, 1869, to Oct., 1870. ('. TV. Potter, from Jan., 1871, to May, 1873. T. M. Merriam, from Aug., 1873, to May, 1876. J. II. Gannett, May, 1876." The Unitarian society was organized in 1804, since which time the following have sustained the pastoral charge with much credit to themselves, and to the prosperity of the society : Revs. J. A. Buckingham, Edcs Irish, and Clarence Fowle ; the last still labors here with much satisfaction to his people. The advancement and unanimity of the organization has been such, that in 1872 they had built, completed, and dedicated their church, situated a few rods west of the Town Hall, of the dimensions of forty by sixty feet, with a tower twelve feet square, and lOG feet in height, exhibiting S3-mmctry and good taste, as does the general appearance of the interior. Ou each side of the pulpit are placed tablets with Scripture quotations: "Search me, O God, and know my heart; try mo and know my thoughts : and sec if there be an^' wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." "I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation, to every one that believeth." The audi- ence-room is eighteen feet high, with arched ceiling. It is arranged for seating about three hundred and fifty persons, having slips of a circular form, with three aisles, one in the centre and one ou each side. There is also a Protestant Episcopal Church at Fiskdale, of which the fol- lowing note may serve as a history : The first service of this church was held AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY. 3G7 on Whitsiind.'iy, 1870. The hall in the old brick school-house was fitted up and has been used as a chapel by the church since its organization as a parish. The petition for organization was made July 20, 1871. The parish was organ- ized Aug. 1, 1871, nuder the name of Grace Church. Rev. Samuel Spear was elected the first rector. His resignation was accepted Sept. 11, 1872. Rev. Levi Boyer accepted a call Feb. 15, 1873; resigned July 30, 1S7G. Rev. Estaiug Jennings became rector July, 27, 1877, and is at present officiating. The parish has been liberally sustained l)y Mr. James C. Fisk, of Cambridge, Mass., who was also greatly inteiestcd in its original organization. CHAPTER III. PURSUIT OF AGRICULTURE WORCESTER SOUTH AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY VALUABLE MINERALS MANUFACTURES COTTON MILLS SXELL MANUFAC- TURLNG COMPANY — N. D. LADD & SONS CONCLUSION. A SOCIETY for the Promotion of Agriculture, existed in this town aiiout the commencement ot the i)resent century. The Rev. Z. L. Leonard was president, and David Wight, Jr., secretary, during the first years of existence. Dea. John Philii[)s, Oliver Plimpton, Abner Lyon, Josiah and Xath'l AValker, Simeon Hooker, Maj. Jacob Upham and Luther Hamant were some of its members. The three last named arc entitled to the credit of making the first movements in attempting to establish the present Worcester South Agricultural Society which was incorporated in the year 185.5. The first exhibition of this society was given October 3 of that year. Hon. Amasa Walker delivered the address, which was considered eminently practical and well worthy the serious attention of the New England farmers. The society includes the towns of Sturl)ridge, Southbridgo, Webster, Oxford, Charlton, Spencer, Brookfields, Warren, Brim- field and Holland. In 18G8 the society purchased laud of Nelson Bennett, adjoining (^edar Pond, for a track, and erected a hall 40 i)y 1)0 feet, two stories with b isement. The building committee for same wero II uiry ILiynes a-id B. J. Stone of Sturbridge, B. Douty of Chariton, N. S. IIul)l)ar(l of Brhnlield. Solomon Shum- way of Webster, John j\I. Clemcnce of Southbridge, Daniel D^nght of Dudley. Their hall at the Centre was sold to the town for $1,750. The land, hall and track cost the society $13,000, leaving them in del)t $0,000, which at the present time has nearly been paid, leaving the society in good condition. It has been favored with members who have had energy and perseverance enough to not only prevent it from sinking, but to raise it up and carry it forward in its noble career of usefulness, to the pride of all its members and the community at large interested in agriculture. 3G8 TOWN OF STURBRIDGE. In 185T, the society offered premiums and gratuities to the amount of $174 ; in 18G6, $8t3; 1878, $1,545. The following is a list of oflScers since its incorporation to the present time : Presidents. — Oliver C. Felton, Calvin P. Fiske, M. D., Newton S. Hubbard, Riifiis B. DoJge, Sylvester Dresser, D.uiicl Dwight, Nathaniel Uphara, S.xin'I N. Gleason, John 0. MeKinstry. Secretaries. — Aaron Lyon, C. P. Fiske, Saml. II. Ilobbs, Saml. C. Ilartwcll, Daviil Wight, Jr., John 0. MeKinstry, Henry Haynes, Aver3- P. Tayler, N. D. Ladd, Ainasa C. Jlorsc. Treasurers. — Simeon F. Marsh, Mclvin Haynes, David Wight, .Jr., Noah D. Ladd, Amasa C. Morse, Win. Whitternore. In the year 1633 Mr. John Oldham of Dorchester, on his journey across the country to Connecticut River Valley, in company with the intericn- Indians in this region, made the discovery of the black-lead mines, and, with specimens of same, made his rep:)rt at Boston that j'car, only thirteen years after the landing of the Pilgrims at Plymouth, hut three years after the arrival of Gov. Winthrop and his party to found the colony of ^Iassachusctts,a century before Sturbridze received its incorporation as a town. (Mr. Oldham was murdered near Block Island, in 1G36, by the Xarragansct and Block Island Indians.) The grant of this tract was given to John "Winthrop, Jr., l)y the Oeneral Court, at Boston, in 1043, situated "about sixty miles westward in which the bhuk-lc.id is, and liberty to purchase some land of the Indians." In tfic year 1G58 the mines were first operated for procuring that mineral as a merchantable arliele, transporting it to Boston on horseback and in teams making their roads as they went along. Between the years 1828 and 1839, Frederick Tudor, Esq., of Boston, became the ptn-chascr, since which time it has been extensively wrought, ami has undoubtedly been a source of profit to the owner. The quantity obtaiui-d for twenty years in succession averaged about twenty tons annually. Not unfrequcntly masses of pure graphite were found, weighing from 20 to 59 Ib^. The lustre of this plumbago is highly mctallie; its structure is between scaly and fine granular ; there is sometimes an obvious approximation to distinct crystals, though mineralogists arc not agreed that this substance has ever been found in such a state. Phosphate of lime and hydrate of iron have been noticed in the gneiss and forming, with the ingredients of the rock, a brecciated mixture. Vegetable relics arc sometimes seen enveloped in the mass. In 1830 three men were buried by the caving of the mine, — Mr. Clentick, Mr. Cleaveland and Mr. Cheney P. Sheddon. The two first named was killed ; ^Ir. Sheddon was released after several hours' confinement, and is living at (he present time (1879). This mine for many years past has not been operated. Another mine of plumbago is on the farm of the heirs of Capt. Lyman Morse, one mile south of the centre of the town, which was worked to some extent in 1845 or '46. COTTON MILLS. 369 Fiskdale Village, in its early days, contained the residences of Moses, Abner and Capt. Jacob Allen, descendants of Moses Allen, the first settler. Capt. Jacob Allen was forcibly impressed with tlie idea that the old Qiiinebaug Eivor, at this point, might bo used beneficially to himself and others; tlrs In- realized by taking the first nsc of the water privileges and building a small grist-mill, the first and only grist-mill in town for many years. It was situated on the west bank, near the paint where the present largo factory dam crosses the river, at the foot of a deep descent from the road, in the midst of rugged rocks, and scenery which had never been disturbed by the hand of art. Dr. Abraham Allen, who became the possessor of his fathei-'s real estate, made some progress in building a dam, no doubt with a view to invito attention to this locality, which was found, on examination, to present flattering facilities for manufacturing purposes. The lion. Josiah I. Fiske, a native citizen of the town, who removed to Wrentham, Mass., where he was engaged in the practice of law for many years, is entitled to the credit of laying the foundation of cotton-manufacturing in this place, and justly claims the name the village bears. There are two waterfalls or privileges at this point, the lower one of which had a fall of 1(5^ feet, and at this privilege Mr. Fisk in 1827 and '28 built the first mill, 84 by 40 feet, five stories, of brick. In 1820 the mill commenced making cloths, having 88 looms. In 1831-5, on the upper privilege, which has u fall of 23i feet, situated about one-eighth of a mile from the lower privilege, Mr. Fisk built a stone-mill 180 by 40 feet, five stories high, and in 183G it was filled with machinery and connneuced to manufacture G4 by 64 printing-cloths, having 10,000 spindles and 200 looms. This year a charter was granted to form a company, under the name of the Sturbridge Cotton Mills, with a capital of $100,000, which purchased the entire property. Mr. Harvey Hartshorn of "Wrentham, Mass., was the first agent luitil 1832, when Mr. Simeon A. Drake succeeded him until 1854, when he was chosen treasurer, and Mr. William B. Whiting succeeded Mr. Drake as agent until he was succeeded by Mr. Kehew. In the great financial panic of 18.57 all tho firms and companies to which the Sturbridge Cotton Mills had sold their cloths for several months previous failed, whicii obliged the corporation to suspend payment, and early in the year of 1858 the mills were closed. In April, 1850, a comprtmiise was made with the creditors, and the mills were again started, with Mr. Bowers S. Chase as agent. Mr. James C. Fisk of Cambridge, Mass., was chosen treasurer, and has filled that office since that time. The water sup- ply in the Quinebaug Kivcr having been ver}' much increased I)y the making of largo reservoirs, the old mills were found much too small to use all the water- power. In May, 18G9, work was begun at the upper privilege, about fifty feet north of the stone mill, on a new mill three stories high, 182 by 70 feet, with an L extension 72 by 56 feet. The foundation of all parts of this mill rests upon solid rock, and the wheel-pit and canal were excavated out of the same. 370 TOWN OF STURBRIDGE. The machinery is operated by a Lcffcl wheel, having two luindrecl and eighty horse-power. Every pnrt of the mill has the modern imi)rovements, and has a light and airy aspect. This mill has 17,5(H spindles and 400 looms. In 1870, work was commenced at the lower privilege Cor large additions and alterations in the old mill, where, in place of the small mill huilt hy Mr. J. I. Fisk in 1S2S, now stands a largo and pictnresqnc-looking mill, which presents an imposing and handsome appearance, having over 11,000 spindles and 300 looms in operation. These two mills consnmc 3,000 hales of cotton a year, and make over 9,200,000 yards of Gt by 64 printing-cloths. The company have one hundred tenements, which arc kept in prime condition, making the general aspect of the village, as acknowledged by all, a very pleasant and homelike one for the operatives, who are made as comfortalilc, if not more so, than in any other mannfacturing village in New England. Mr. Chase resigned as agent in Jtdy, 1875, and Mr. George II. Sparkawlc succeeded him. In 1869 an act of Legislature authorized a change of the corporate name of the Stur- bridge Cotton Mills, to be hereafter known as (he Fiskdale Mills, and also au- thorized an increase of capital stock, so that it be may $.500,000. Tlu? company accepted these acts, and increased in 1871 its capital stock to $350,000. JIuch credit is given Mr. James C Fisk by the citizens of Sturbridge for the substantial improvements accomplished thi'ough his energy and zeal, showing good taste and sound judgment in all his works, which, including the beautiful decorations of nature, demand universal attention from all, and attract with that pleasure and admiration which our townspeople justly appreciate. Mr. Lil)erty Allen, a descendant of Moses Allen, commenced in 1830, an of tlic Snell Manufacturing Company, E. L. Bates treasurer and lesident agent, which has continued until the present time, Dca. Thomas Snell and sons, Lucius and Augustine, being retained as manufacturers in (he business. Dur- ing tlie progress of the war, many goods were furnished to the various depart- ments of government by this manufactory, and it maintained a prosperous existence until the panic of 1873, when, for the next few j'ears, trade in mechanics' tools were diminished very much, although the Snell Manufacturing Company had obtained the reputation of making goods superior to any in the market, and have always kept their works in operation. Its sales in some years have exceeded $100,000, and customers extend to many countries in Europe, Australia, Brazil and Cuba, in addition to all parts of the United States. In 1877 Mr. J. C. Wilson died, and April, 1879, Mr. Clark sold his interest to two young men, Messrs. Tenuis & AVilson of New York, who con- tinue willi Mr. E. L. Bates, who makes all purchases and attends to the sales and financial part of the business, and, in October, 1871), are employing sixty- five men in the works. N. D. Ladd & Sons, manufacturers of cutters and dies, have earned a good reputation and do quite an extensive business, to the amount of $10,000 to $11, 000 yearly. On the site of the present shop, Mr. D. K. Porter built, in 1810, a shop for a pistol manufactory, for Messrs. Gibbs & Bros. In 1844 Messrs. Snell & ChaiTee purchased the property and commenced the first man- ufactory of bits and augers in this town. In 184(5 Sumner Packard purchased the property and manufactured awls and general shoe-kit tools. In April, 1849, the shop was burnt, and rebuilt by Mr. Packard; and, iu 1855, Mr. Charles Varney bought out Mr. Packard and carried on the same business until 1857, when he put in connection with his trade the maiuifiicture of cutters and dies. In 18fi2, Mr. Varney sold a half interest to F. W. Slayton ; and, in 1863, F. W. & II. Sla\-ton succeeded to the whole. In 1804 Mr. N. D. Ladd pur- chased a third interest, and, in 18G5, Messrs. Ladd & Wight bought the whole property. In 18(57 Mr. Wight retired, and Mr. Ladd has carried on the busi- ness since under the name of N. D. Ladd & Sous; la June, 1878, the shop was burnt, but was rebuilt the same year. 572 TOWN OF SUTTON. SUTTON, BY REV. AVILLIAM A. BENEDICT. CHAPTER I. ANCIENT PURCHASE — GRANT BY GENERAL COURT — INCORPORATION — ALTERA- TIONS OF TERRITORY PnVSICAL ASPECTS — LAKES AND STREAMS GEOLOGY FIRST PROPRIETORSHIPS INDIAN RELATIONS EARLY SETTLEMENT PROVINCIAL WARS THE TOWN IN THE REVOLUTION INSURRECTION CONSTITUTION ADOPTED LATER WARS THE SOUTHERN REBELLION IN- TERESTING HISTORY OF SMALL-ARMS. The township of Sutton was purchased by certain persons residing in Bos- ton, of John Wampus, alias White, and company, Indians, and is designated as "a tract of waste laud, situated in the Nipniug countr^^ eight miles square, lying between tho towns of ]\Ieudou, Worcester, New O.xford, Sherburne, and Marlborough, embracing within its limits an Indian reservation four miles square, called Ilassanimisco, and possessed by the Indians.'" The old Indian deed is lost, but the sale was confirmed by grant made b\^ the General Court of the Province of Massachusetts Bay, iSIay l.'j, 1704. In this grant the boundaries as above mentioned are given, and it is added, "the same to be called Sutton, and to have, use, exercise, and enjo^' the same powers, immunities, and privileges by law granted to towns." No other act of incorporation seems to have been given or sought. Tiic territory which the town originally covered was so large that the inhab- itants living near the outside limits found it very inconvenient to go to tho centre to attend town meetings and transact their town business, and numbers of them had from time to time petitioned to be set off to adjoining towns or allowed to unite with others in forming a new township. Grafton, embracing the Indian reservation of Ilassanimisco, and a narrow strip of territory in addition, was incorporated as a town in 1735; several families, with their lands, at the north-east part of the town, had been set off to U.xbridge ; from which, and some portions of the adjoining towns, Upton was formed. At the north-west part of the town quite a large number of families PHYSICAL FEATURES. 373 had united with others in Worcester and Oxford, and formed the town of Ward, now Auburn ; and on several occasions a few families in the south part had been set off to Northbriilge, and a new precinct or parish, three miles in width, had been formed in the north part of the town. This precinct was, by act of tiic Legislature, incorporated as the town of Millbury, June II, 1813. Since this date several attempts have been made to efl'ect a further dismemberment of the town, all of which have been opposed by a majority of the people and have failed. In its physical aspect, the town presents many attractive features. Its sur- face is uneven and hilly, and, though none of its hills rise to great height, many of them arc of sufScicnt elevation to reveal from tlicir summits scenes of quiet beauty unsurpassed in any other portion of New England. There are several natural ponds within its limits, the principal of wliich arc Rams^horu, in the north-western part; IManchaug, in the south-western; and Crooked Pond (Singletary Lake), near the centre. From these ponds flow streams wiiich furnish valuable water-privileges. The Bhickstone River — called by the Indians Kitlatuck — has its rise in Ramshorn Pond,* and flows through the town from north-west to south-east. In its geological features, the town presents nothing of a peculiar nature. Tile rocky formation is chiefly granite, quartz, and gneiss. Gneiss predomi- nates, and the quarries which have been opened furnish most excellent stone for building purposes. Near the centre is an immense chasm, called Purgatory, about one hun- dred rods in length and from thirty to forty feet in width, with walls of solid rock nearly perpendicular and iu some places about sixty feet in height. It is one of the most remarkable natural curiosities in the State and attracts many visitors. The proprietors of the town named in the grant of the General Court were, "John Conner, pewterer ; James Smith, shop-keeper; William Mum- ford, stone-cutter ; and Joshua Hewcs, inn-keeper, and others their partners ; Paul Dudley, Esq., of Boston; John Jackson, of Boston, honsewright ; Mary Conner and Elizabeth Piltom, daughters and co-heirs of John Pittom, plumber, deceased ; Edward Pratt, of Newtown, within the county of Middlesex, physi- cian ; and Elizabeth Wilson, of Hartford, in the county of Connecticut, widow.'' The condition of the grant was that the above-named proprietors " intrench upon no former gi'ant of the General Court, and that they be obliged to settle a town of thirty families, and a minister, upon said lands within seven years after the close of the present war with the Indians, f and that they reserve three hundred acres of the said lands for the lirst settled minister and four hundred for the ministry, and two hundred acres for the use of a school, all to be conveniently located." * So called from tho crooked course of tho river for several miles, t Quceu Autie's war, which began in nOi and closed iu 1713. 374 TOAVN OF SUTTON. The first meeting of the proprietors of which there is any record was held in Boston Nov. 17, 1714. It seems that at this meeting, or abont this time, they divided the township, which was supposed to contain at least thirty thousand acres, after deducting the Indian reservation of ILissanimisco, into sixty rights of five hundred acres each. Every purchaser of one of these rights hecame a proprietor. Actual surveys were made from time to time of sixty lots, — first of thirty acres each, then of one hundred acres, &c., — each five hundred-acre right being entitled to one of these lots. During the year 1716 three families were found of sufficient nerve and enterprise to pioneer the settlement of the town. These families were those of Benjamin Marsh, Elisha Johnson, and Nathaniel Johnson. They built their cal)ins near the centre of the town and spent there the winter of 171()-17. It was the winter made memorable by the deep snow which fell the last days of February and wholly covered the cabins. Elisha Johnson had left his family tlie morning of the day the snow commenced tailing, for the purpose of obtaining some supplies in Marlborough. He was seen on his way l)y a friendly Indian, who, when the storm had subsided, started, on snow-shoes, for the little settlement and found the cabin of Mr. Johnscjn by the hole which the smoke of the fire-place had made through the snow. Mrs. John- son said "no human voice ever sounded half so sweet to her as did the voice of that Indian calling through that hole." To facilitate the settlement of the town the prf7, That this town will use their utmost endeavors, and enforce their endeavors by example, in suppressing extravagance, idleness and vice, and promoting industry, cconomj- and good morals. And in order to prevent the unnecessary expor- tation of money, of which the Province has of late been so much drained, it is further — '■'■ liesolvcd. That this town will l)y all prudent means endeavor to discontinue the use of foreign superfluities, and to encourage manufactures." As the measures of England became more and more oppressive, and the responses to petitions for a redress of grievances more and more arrogant, tho militia were placed under drill, a stock of ammunition was secured, and a band of minute-men, well mounted and armed, formed under the command of Col. Jonathan Ilolman. When the news of the battle of Lexinsrton reached the town on the evening 376 TOWN OF SUTTON. of April 19, 1775, this band sprang to their saddles, and, riding all night, reached the scene of conflict curly on the morning of the 20th. Within abont thirty days from tliat date, a full regiment, raised in Sntton and adjoining towns, nnder tlie command of Col. Ehenczcr Learned of Oxford, reported lor dnty at Roxhnry. This regiment enlisted for eiglit mouths, and, their time having expired, the men were regularly discliarged. Another regiment was immediately formed of men from "Sutton, Oxford, Charlton and Dudley, including adjacent lands," and placed under the com- mand of Col. Jonathan Ilolman of Sntton. His regiment, composed largely of nun from Sutton, and under the command of a Sntton oiEcer, was known as ''Tile Sutton Regiment," and was allotted to that portion of the army under the immediate conmiand of Gen. Washington. It was called to arduous service, and never found wanting. Of the fort3'-three towns comprising the county of Worcester during the Revolutionary war, Sutton was the third in population and wealth, Brookfield and Lancaster only surpassing it in these respects ; and it was excelled I)y none in the lo^'alty of its inhabitants, and the prom[)tness with which every requi- sition of the Continental Congress for men and su[)p]ies was met. Before the indci)cndencc of the Colonies was declared, the town — ^^Voted, That, if the Honorable Congress should, for the safety of these Colonics, declare them independent of the kingdom of Great Britain, the inhabitants of this town will soleinnlj- engage with their lives and fortunes to support them in the measure." A committee of "Correspondence, Inspection and Safety "was chosen each year during the war, and for several years after its close. This committee was vigilant and ctBcient in action, at one time stopping quite a number of loads of rum, sugar and salt which were being "transported out of the State " in viola- tion of the law prohibiting such transportation. They also dealt rigidly with any who appeared to be "inimical to the cause of America," or " spoke any thing against the Regulating Acts." In 1777 Sutton united with several of the adjoining towns in sending a petition to the General Court for the moditiiation or repeal of "An Act for drawing in the Bills of Credit, &c.," which [)elition characterized the said act as "big with injustice, oppression and cruelty." Upon the occasion of the surrender of Cornwallis and iiis army, a mass meeting of the citizens was held, at wliich, it was said, "every demonstration of joy in their power was shown." Amcnig the toasts drank were the following : — " M.iy all malicious pimps of British George, and lovers of tyranny, be swept olf ■with the besom of the thirteen United States of America ! " "May that traitor Arnold, and all his accomplices, be suspended between heaven and earth, as unworthy of either ! " "May tliose heroes who have nobly bled in defence of tlieir Country be heard of in nations unknown, and ever be remembered ui ages to come ! " CURRENCY TROUBLES. 377 The people of Sutton, as well as those of other towns, were greatly impov- erished liy the war. They had contributed a large amount of money to pay the soldiers they had furnished, and to micet tiie requisitions of the govern- ment. In many instances, they had mortgaged their property to pay taxes. Having no means to meet their obligations. Continental money being wortii- less, it was natural that they should cast about for some means of relief. They secured the calling of a County Convention to discuss the situation, and, if })ossible, devise some means to alleviate the general distress, and save their property, which was being attached for debts. This convention, the president of which was Dea. Willis Ilall of Sutton, had several meetings, and its pro- ceedings were made the subject of severe strictures by a writer in the "Massa- chusetts Spy," and an exhibition of much bitterness of feeling against Sutton, in view of the prominent part its citizens had taken in its assembling and deliberations. A failure to secure relief from grievances, led, near the close of the j'car 178G, to Shays' Rebellion. But with this insurrection, with few exceptions, the people of Sutton had no sympathy. They had been most earnest in seek- ing a removal of the causes out of which it sprang, and now, in opposing the violent and revolutionary measures of the insurgents, they manifested equal earnestness, responding in large numbers to the call of Col. Ilolman, who raised a body of men, and marched to Petersham to aid in bringing them to terms. The few who had disfranchised themselves by aiding the rebellion are recorded as having delivered up their arms, and "subscribed the oath of allegiance as prescribed in the Constitution, in compliance with a Court Act, dated Fcl). It), 1787, for indemnifying certain persons who are, or may be guilty of treason." Great interest was taken in the Convention called to amend the Articles of Confederation, and especially when it was found that the idea of amending had been abandoned and a new Constitution was being framed. The delegates chosen to represent the town in the State Convention called to take into consideration the new Constitution and ratify it if approved, had definite instructions given them by a committee of the most able men in town. The rejoicings when this Constitution went into effect were very general. In the war of 1812 no especial interest was taken, and but few men entered the service. The same may be said of the war with Mexico during the admin- istration of President Polk. But when Fort Sumter was fired upon, in 18(51, the spirit of '7G was again aroused. At a town meeting held April 30, 18G1, a series of resolutions having the true patriotic ring was passed, one of which is the following : — ''Resolved, Tbat in tliis most unnatural contest waged .igainst our country by a band of traitors in our Soulhcru States, we, the inhabitants of .Sntton, believing that the wbole streuglh of the country should be exerted in au efficient manner to put down VOL. II.— 13 378 TOWN OF SUTTOX. rebellion, call upon the Government of the Uniterl States to make no terms or compro- luises Willi traitors, but to carrN' on the war in such a manner and with such force as will strengthen the Union sentiment, which we believe still exists in portions of the rebellious States, and overwhelm those who, regardless of all obligations, seek a division of oiir beloved country." Good arms were the great need, and there was, for some retison, a prejudice agaiust the most efficient arm of the day, the breech-loader. Ill the first session of the Massachusetts Legislature for 1863, the military committee (unanimously on the part of the House) reported a bill for the purchase of small-arms aud ordnance, and five hundred thousand dollars were appropriated f(jr the purpose. This bill restricted the purchase to the Spring- fieid-uiusket pattern. The representative from the twenty-filth district was from Sutton — a native of the towu. He moved to amend by striking out "Springficld-muskct pattern," and inserting "of such pattern as the Governor and Council shall deem best adapted to the service." The amendment was lost and the bill went to the Senate. The member from Sutton called the attention of some of the most inHucntial of the senators to the importance of tiie amend- ment, and it was introduced aud adopted. The bill was returned to the House for concurrence, and a special assignment made for its consideration. When it was called, the member from Sutton moved to concur in the Senate's amend- ment, and to show the superioril}'' of the breech-loading rifle over the muzzle- loading arm, contrasted it, gim in hand — (an expert having in hand the Spring- field musket, and going through the motions of loading and firing as rapidly as possible, he doing the same) — with the arm recommended b}' government. Extracts from letters written b}' distinguished generals in the army, who had had proof on the battle-field of the efficiency of the breech-loader in the hands of the rebels, were also read, and so convincing was the argument that the House, by a large majority, reversed its former vote, and concurred in the amendment of the Senate. A commission was appointed to examine, test and select the best brccch- loading rifle. This commission recommended the adoi)tiou t)f the Spencer repeating rifle, and a contract was made for a large supply for the State. The Sccretar}' of War, learning that Massachusetts had adopted the Spencer repeating rifle, and then had a supply of several thousands ready for her troo[)s as they might be called for, requested the Governor to turn them over to the United States Government, that they might be immediately placed in the hands of men in the field. Gov. Andrew at once complied with the request, and the government forthwith ordered the construction of a large number on its own account. It is an interesting historical fact that Massachusetts enjoys the honor of first placing in the hands of infantry, by authoridj ofrjovernmenl,M weapon that is more destructive than any heretofore in use, and as such will do much to shorten wars. Aud M'ith just pride do we record the fact that the member from Sutton initiated THE REBELLION WAR. 379 the change liy his amendment to the l)ill for the purchase of arms, and when his amendment was lost, used such influence with the senators as to secure its adoption by the Senate, and when the l)ill was returned to the House for con- currence, single-handed and alone confronted the military coujuiiltee, who continued to advocate the muzzle-loader, and by his convincing arguments, enforced by practical illustration, brought the majority most enthusiastically to the support of his measure. The town furnished two hundred and twenty-three men for tlie war, which was eight in excess of its quota. Two were commissioned officers. The whole amount of money appropriated and expended on account of the war, exclusive of State aid, was $2o,180.14. The amount of money paid by the town for State aid to soldiers' families during the war, and afterward repaid liy the State, was as follows: In 1861, $501.91 ; 1802, $2,410.71; 18G3,$3,212.70 ; 18G4,$1,725.76 ; 18C.5, $1,901.26 ; total amount, $9,725.34. A special tax was levied to pay the war-debt, and it was extinguished. CHAPTER II. ecclesiastical matters — fihst congregational church second con- gliegatioxal — first daptist second baptist third baptist st. John's episcopal — freewill baptist — universalist — jianchaug bap- tist PRESBYTERIAN METHODIST EDUCATIONAL HISTORY LIBRARY. The religious history of the town begins with its civil history. At the first town meeting a committee was chosen to join with :i committee of the pro- prietors "for l)uilding and furnishing a meeting-house." At the meeting held in March, 1719, it was "voted to have a minister this summer." A meeting- house was built during the year, and the annual town meeting in March, 1720, was held in it. At an adjourned meeting held March 21, 1720, the town voted for a minister, and "made choice of Mr. John McKinstry to settle among them at a salary of sixty pounds a year." A church of twenty' members, all males, was formed in the foil of 1720, and November 9, Mr. McKinstry was ordained pastor, the town making the arrangements for his ordination. Mr. McKinstry was a Scotchman, of Presbyterian proclivities, and conse- quently not altogether acceptable to stanch Congregationalists. He was dis- missed at a town meeting held Sept. 2, 1728. The record is as follows: "Put to vote to see whether the town would dismiss Mr. John McKinstry from preaching here in Sutton, and it passed in ye affirmative and there was not any votes in ye negative." Mr. McKiubtry was succeeded by Rev. David Hall, D.D., who was ordained Oct. 15, 1729, and died May 8, 1789. 380 TOWN OF SUTTON. Tbo succeeding pastors of the church have been : the Revs. Edmuiul Mills, ordained June 22, 1790, died Nov. 7, 1825; John Mallby, ordained June 28, 1826, dismissed July 14, 1834; Hiram A. Tracy, ordained Jan. 1, 1835, dismissed Dec. 11, 1850; George Lyman, ordained Nov. 12, 1851, dismissed Nov. 12, 18C7; F. E. Fellows, installed Oct. 26, 1SG9, dismissed Jau. 3, 1871; II. A. Tracy, acting pastor from January, 1871, to October, 1875: ■William A. Benedict, installed Feb. IG, 1876. The salary of the minister and other church expenses were for some years provided for by a tax upon property, in accordance with the universal custom of the day. The last of such taxes was collected in 1793. An act incorporating the "First Congregational Society"' passed the House of Representatives June 27, 1794, and the society organized in accordance willi its provisions Aug. 18, 1794. The tirst meeting-house was erected in 1719, the second in 1751. This was burned Nov. 3, 1828, and the present house built in 1829. The inhabitants of tiie north part of Sutton were ineorpoi'atcd a pari.-h Oct. 28, 1743. The first meeting was held Dec. 26, 1743. The church was organ- ized under the name of the Second Congregational Church, Sept. 10, 1747, and consisted of forty persons, all males, twenty-eight of the members having been dismissed from the Fir^t Congregational Church. In November following, thirty females, all dismissed from the First Church, were received into fellowship. The pastors of the church have been : Revs. James Wellman, ordained Oct. 7, 1747, dismissed July 22, 1760; Ebenczer Chaplin, ordained Nov. 14, 1764, dismissed Dec. 20, 1791 ; Joseph Goffe, ordained Sept. 10, 1794. In the 3'ear 1813 the north parish was incorporated as the town of ]\Iilli)Uiy, from which time its history belongs with that town. The First Ilaptist Church was organized Sept. 16, 1735, and was the fourth oldest church of the denomination in Massachusetts. In 1737 BcnjiMuin Marsh and Thomas Green were ordained its joint pastors. The same year a branch went off from this church and organized a Baptist church in Leicester, of which Elder Green became pastor. Elder Marsh died in 1775. Diu'ing the Revolutionar}' war the church became ranch reduced in membership, and, "rent with dissension," was dropped from the Warren Association. In 1785 a re-organization was effected, and Ebenczer Lamson was chosen pastor. In 1794 Mr. Lamson announced his belief in open communion and universal salvation. He was at once dismissed, excommunicated, and his ordinatiou declared a nullit}-. The other pastors have been : Elders William Batcheller ; Samuel Waters, ordained 1799, dismissed 1825; Moses Ilarrin:.'- ton, ordained 1825, dismissed 1828; John Walker, installed 1831, dismissed 1836; Charles H. Peabody, 1837; Otis Converse, 1840; Samuel Richar.l . 1842; George Daland, 1843; Job B. Boomer, installed 1846; G. W. Hni- tou, 1849; J. Thayer, 1850; L. O. Lovel, 1852, dismissed 1856; O. Crane, CHURCHES AND PASTORS. 381 1859; J. D. Donovan, 1860; David Avery, 1862; C. L. Baker, 1863, died 1864; J. Barber, 186-1; G. Stone, 1865; N. Medbcry, 1867; A. E. Battelle, 186;); J. II. Tilton, 1871; E. J. Stevens, 1872; C. F. Myres, 1873; E. J. Stevens, 1876; J. P. Chapin, 1878. The lirst meeting-house was built about 1750, near the centre of the town. A second house was built in , on Freeland Hill, about half a mile west of the first. The present house at West Sutton was dedicated in 1830. The Second Baptist Church was organized in South Sutton, Oct. 9, 1792, with a membershi[) of thiity-six persons. The pastors of the church have been: Elders William Batchellcr, 1792; Nathan Leonard, ordained Nov. 15, 1809; AVilliam Bachcllcr, 1810; Job B. Boomer, ordained 1819; Austin Robbins, 1841 ; N. Underwood, 1842 ; Nelson B Jones, 1845 ; Joseph Thayer, ordained 1847; J. B. Boomer, 1849; R. G. Lamb, 1852; Charles A. Snow, 1853 ; Abial Fisher, D. D., 1855 ; Justus Aldrich, 1858 ; J. B. Boomer, 1859 ; Joseph P. Burbauk, 1862; N. J. Pinkham. 1869; J. P. Burbank, 1870; Philip Berry, 1873 ; J. P. Burbank, 1875 ; J. C. Boomer, 1878. The mccting- bouse was built in 1804-5, and dedicated July 2, 1805. The Third Baptist Church was organized Feb. 10, 1810, and seems to have been composed of persons formerly in connection with a Baptist church iu Thompson, Conn. Mr. Turner Fuller was licensed by the church to exercise his gifts among them as a preacher of the gospel, which he continued to do for some years. He was ordained Oct. 13, 1S19. The meetings were usually held at private houses ; sometimes in the meeting-house of the First Baptist Church, on Free- land Hill. Elder Turner Fuller was its only pastor. Its action in dismissing certain members in 1834 is referred to iu the record of the Freewill Baptist Church, and it probably ceased to exist about that time. St. John's (Episcopal) Church is located in the village of Wilkinsonville. The enterprise which ctdmiuated in the establishment of this church was com- menced by Rev. Daniel Le Baron Goodwin, July 17, 1825. The organ- ization was effected March 10, 1827, under the name of St. John's Protestant Episcopal (Church. The rectors have been : Revs. D. Lc B. Goodwin, from July 17, 1825, to April, 1854; Benjamin H. Chase, April, 1854, to April, 1858 ; A. Decatur Sjjaltcr, June, 1858, to December, 1859 ; AVilliam George Hawkins, April, 1S60, to April, 1862; George Sturges Paiue, September, 1862, to September, 1863 ; Samuel S. Spear, January, 18G4, to January, 1867 ; Thomas L. Randolf, January, 1867, to December, 1870; Henry A. IMetcalf, June, 1871, to June, 1874; James S. Ellis, July, 1874. The meeting-house was erected in 1828. The record in reference to the organization of the Freewill Baptist Church, under date of Nov. 1, 1834, is: "The five brethren and six sisters came together, having letters of dismission and commciidatiou from the Third Bap- tist Church iu Sutton, then visible." 382 TO^VN OF SUTTON. ElJcr Willard Fuller was chosen pastor, ami meetings were held at liis house until 1838, when a meeting-house was built upon his hind al)out a mile west of Manchaug. Serviees continued to I)e held in this house until 1858 or '59, and perhaps occasionally later than that date. The church had hut one minister, — Rev. W. Fuller. It was his requot that after his death the meeting-house should bo sold and the proceeds given to the Freewill Baptist Home Jlissionary Society. lie died Dec. 8, 1S7'). The house was sold and taken down in 187G. A Universalist Society was organized in August, 1840, and held its moetin-^ for a time in the hall of the hotel at AVest Sutton ; then in the academy i)uil(l- ing there ; then in a hall at the centre. The records show the settlement of bnt two pastors, — Rev. Alvan Abbot, who commenced his labors March, 1841 , and a young man by the name of Tingle}', ordained in iho fall of 184G. The last meeting of which there is any record was held April 5, 1847. The Baptist church in Manchaug was organized Jlay 18, 1842, with thirty members. The pastors and their periods of service have been as follow> : Elders W. H. Dalrymple, one year two months ; N. B. Jones, one year four months; George Daland, one year six months; Abial Fisher, four years; N. Chapman, two years; J. S. Ilarradou, six years nine months; N. J. Pink- ham, one 3"car seven months ; Addison Brown, seven months ; D. A. Dear- born, four years; C. L. Thompson, four years five months; J. C. Boomer, 1878. The United Presbyterian Church in Wilkinsonvillc was organized in lS.".."i by the Associate Presln'tcry of Albany, N. Y., and continued in connect ii hi with that body until 1858, when, at the union of the Associate and Associai«' Reformed churches, which took place in Pittsburg, Pa., May 26, 1858, il became one of the congregations of the United Presbyterian Church of North America. The original founders of the Sutton United Presbyterian congrega- tion were families from the Province of Ulster, Londonderry County, Ireland. The pastors have been: Revs. James AVilliamson, installed February', 185(j, and continued in the pastorate nearly eight years ; P. Y. Smith, installed Feb. 28, 18G6. There has also l)ccn a ^Icthodist Episcopal church. It was first organized June 12, 1853, and the congregation worshipped in A\'ashington Hall, at the centre, until the meeting-house, built in 1854-5, was ready for occu|)ancy. The pastors h.ave been : Revs. John W. Lee, 1853-4 ; John II. Gaylord, 1855; Rodney Gage, 185G-7 ; Newell S. Spaulding, 1858; William A. Clapp, 1859; J.J. Woodbury, 1860; Charles W. Macreading, 18G1 ; S. O. Brown, 1862. Owing to financial embarrassments, the church in 1864 concluded to dis- band, and the conference transfcnxnl all its members to the Methodist church in Millbury. The meeting-house, which stood upon the common, a little south of tbo EDUCATIONAL INTERESTS. 383 scliool-honsc, was unoccupied for several years, then sold at auction, and bought l)y the late Stephen B. Holbrook, moved and converted into the dwelling-house now occupied by his heirs. There is no mention of schools upon the records of the town previously to 1725, and then only in connection with the proposed sale of the school lands. The first record with reference to a public school is found in the year 1730, when it was " voted that a schot.l should be kept for four months, in four places, one month in a place." In 1732 the town was presented at the court for fail- ure to employ a school-master as the law required, and a fine imposed. In 1735 a committee was appointed to see how many sciiool-houses were wanted, hut no action was taken in the matter. Until 1752, and perhaps a little later, all the schools were kept in private houses. In 1701 permission was given by vote of the town to "set a school-house on the highway near to Mr. Jcptha Putnam's." In 17CC) a committee was raised to divide the town into school districts, but at the same time the town refused to make an}- appropriation for building school-houses. In 1773 the town was regularly divided into school districts, fourteen in number, but a proposition to make the schools free was defeated. The treasurer's book contains no order for the payment of a grammar school master, regularly employed as such, previously to 1703. From this it is evi- dent that the law reijuiring the estal)lishment of grammar schools had not been complied with. In 1828 there was a new division of the town into twelve school districts. Millbury had been set off since the last division. In 1849 a conunitfce was appointed to make a revision of the school districts. Their report was accepted. The number was thirteen, and their boundaries as then defined arc substantially those of the districts of the town at the present time. About the beginning of the present century the desire for better educational advantages than were afforded by the public schools of the town began to find expression in the estal)lishmcnt of private schools. Of these there have been quite a number, and some of them of a high order. Toward the establishment of a high school no action was taken until 18()0, when the following article was inserted in the warrant for the annual town meeting, "to see if the tow-n will establish a high school or act or do anything relative to the same." After earnest discussion of the matter by the friends of the measure, the whole thing was indefinitely postponed. In 1864 (see sect. 1, cha[). 142, Acts of 18G5) and for several succeeding j'ears, no apportionment of the income of the State School Fund was made to Sutton. In 18G() another attempt was made to secure a vote for the establishment of a high school with no l)ettcr success than in 18G0. It was not until the annual town meeting of 1873 that a vote was carried for the maintenance of a high school, and an appropriation made for the same. The school was commonccd April 14, 1873, 384 TOWN OF SUTTON. uiKlcr the instruction of Walter A. Wheeler, and wan for the first Acar a " moving school," under three different teachers. The first term it was at Wiikinsonville, the second at AVcst Sutton, and the third at the centre. At the March meeting, 1874, it was located for the year at the centre. Mr. Walter A. Whcclcr was secured as principal. It is still maintained at the centre, and Mr. Wheeler continues in charge. lu 1874 an association was formed for the purpose of establishing a free public library. Donations of money and books were sought, aud freely given by residents of the town and others interested in the enterprise. After being open to the public a suSicient length of time to show that it was appreciated as meeting a want long felt, it was offered to and accepted by the town, which makes appro- priations from j^ear to year for the purchase of books and other expenses. It now contains something more than two thousand volumes, aud is free to all citizens of the town. CHAPTER III. EARLY 5LVNUFACTURES — PROGUEPS AND IMPROVEMENT — AGRICULTURE — BIOG- RAPHY EMINENT PKOEESSIONAL AND OTHER CHAUACTERS. We h.ave seen that the jicople of this town took action, in 17(^8, for the encouragement of manufactures. Every house were a manufactory of woolen, linen, and tow-cloth. Every farmer was a producer of wool and flax. As the carding was all done by hand, it was natural that the first manufacturing of the town shoidd bo the production of those articles most needed in making woolen and linen cloth. Ilaud-cards arc foimd among the first, if not the first, articles made in Sut- ton. These were manufactured by Jonathan Hale, who came from Salem in 1747, and several others between that date aud 1795, from which time nothing in that line has been done in town. Comb-making was introduced about 1780, b}' Simeon Carpenter, who came from Altlcborough, and carried on quite extensively by him, and by Levi aud Jonathan Fuller, who came from the same place. Scythe, hoe, and axe making was also carried on at an earl}' date in many places, — scythe-making in particular. To facilitate the forging of tliese articles trip-hammers were introduced very soon after coming into use in older towns. As early as 1703 few towns surpassed Sutton in manufacturing enter- prise. The fine water-privileges along tiie outlet of Crooked Pond were at an early date utilized. The first i)rivilege, where W. II. Wheeler's cotton-factory now stands, was occupied by the grist-mill built by John Singletary ; upon the VARIOUS INDUSTIUES. 385 secoiul there was a scythe-s^hop ; the next, where the mill of M. A. Liphnm stands, was occupiecl by the paper-mill of Abijuh Biirlwiik. This mill, Imiit ill 1775— G, was the first paper-mill erected in the fount \', and tlio fourth or fifth in Massachusetts. It was, for most of the time during the Revolutionary war, the sole dependence for paper of the printiiig-ofBce of Isaiah Thomis in Worcester. Just below the paper-mill was an oil-mill for the manufacture of linseed oil ; still further down the stream, a powder-mill, built by the Provincial Govern- ment ; next to this a gun mannfactory, afterwards changed into a manufactory of scythes, axes, saws, mill-irons, steel plates, &c., in making which an exten- sive business for the day was done. Tanning and currying, printing, and clock and watch making were also car- ried (111 to a consiileraiile extent. The i)oot and shoe business was started not far from 1835, and was carried on by various parties, increasing until 1855, when the business connected with it amounted to about $1,000 a day. but soon l)egaii to decline in con- secpiencc of the tendency to concentrate in large places in the hands of large capitalir-ts. The manufacture of shuttles was begun many j'cars since, and is now an important business at ]Mari)Ieville and Wilkinsonville. At Woodliuryville woolen goods of v.irious kinds have been maniifictured, Kentucky j-ans and satinets. At Pleasant Valley the first cloth woven by power-looms in town was made, and the first broadcloth. On the same stream, a short distance above, is a mill where a superior quality of flour was once made, knf)wn in market as "Sutton flour." The manufacture of cotton cloth was begun in Wilkinsonville in 1823. The mill has been enlarged several times, and its manufacturing capacity increased until the annual production amounts to two million yards sixty-four srpiaro print cloths. The most important manufacturing interest of the town is that of Manc'.iaug. The advantages as a motive power of the stream which is the outlet of Maii- chaug Pond, and is fed by streams flowing from several other ponds in the viciiut}^ were recognized by a number of gentlemen pissing through the p'ace on their way from Providence to Worcester and Boston, as early as 1825. They determined, if possible, to utilize it for manufacturing purposes. At this time there was nothing npiui it l)ut a small scythe-shop. A purchase of real estate, including the water power, was maile in 182(5, and to this purchase additions have from time to time been made, as the interests of the compiny required. A cotton mill was soon erected and put in operation. Additions have been made to this mill, and three others have been built. For the first nine years no record of products was kept. In 1835 the production was G40.650 yards of print-cloths. This production has been increased until, in 187G, it amounted to 0,328,050 yards, knowu as "Fruit of the Loom."' It is probably 386 TOWN OF SUTTON. about the same now. Tbe owners of this large and valiialile property are "Lewis Dexter, B. B., and K. Knight," all of Riiodc Island. Sutton is one of the best towns in the county for agricultural purposes. The time has been when it was surpassed by no town iu the State in the appearance and culture of its farms, in the quality and quantity of its dair\' products and in its stock, especially its neat cattle. Jt has been famed for its fine working cattle and has sometimes sent to (he county fair a team of seventy-five or eighty yoke of oxen, which was more than all the other towns combined had on exhibition, and thc\' were such as quite generally to command the highest premium. Like other rural New England towns, Sutton has produced many men of mark. Our space allows ns to make brief mention of only a few of these. Gen. Rnfus Putnam was born in Sutton, April 9, 1738. At the breaking out of the war of 1775 he entered the army as lieutenant-colonel, but was soon promoted to a brigadier-generalship. He did efl'cctive service as chief of the engineering department, and was ever treated by Gen. Washington with confidence and respect. The " Ohio Company of Associates," by whom the first settlement of the territory north-west of the Ohio was made, was formed chiefly through his instrumentality. He was one of the directors and the general manager of the affairs of the company. He went out with the pioneers who commenced a settlement where Maiictta, Ohio, now stands. He was the leading citizen among the early settlers of Ohio, held many subordinate offices of trust, was one of the three judges of the territory, a member of the conven- tion for the formation of a State Constitution, Survo3-or- General of the United States and the first wiio held that office. In Dr. Hildreth's "Lives of the Early Settlers of Ohio," the leading place is given to Gen. Eufus Putnam. He died iu 1821. Hon. Solomon Sibley was born in Sutton, Oct. 7, 17G9. He studied law with William Hastings of Boston, and after the completion of his studies went to Marietta, Ohio; thcnee to Cincinnati, where he formed a law-partnership with Judge Burnet ; removed from Cincinnati to Detroit ; served in the first legislative assembl}' of the North-west Territory ; was a delegate to Congress, Unitetl States Attorney, Judge of the Supreme Court of Michigan, and Chief Justice. He died April 4, 184G. Aldcu ^Nlarch, M. D., was born in Sutton, Sept. 20, 179o. He studied medicine with his brother, Dr. David March ; attended medical lectures at Boston ; then at Brown University, Providence, where he received the degree of Doctor of Medicine. He removed to Albany, N. Y. ; practised medicine there; was a[)pointed Professor of Anatomy and Physiology in the Vermont Academy of Jledicine ; took a leading part in the establishment of the Albany Medical College, and was its first president. He was skilful as a physician, and as a surgeon considered the most eminent in this country. He died June 17, 1861). EMINENT TOWNSMEN. 387 Jnmes H. Armsby, M. D., was bom in Sutton, Dec. 1, 1809 ; studied medi- cine with Dr. Aldeu March of Albany, who was his brother-in-law; graduattd at the Vermont Academy of Medicine, and was for a time Professor of jVnatoniy and Physiology there. After the estal)lishment of the Albany Medical College he resigned his professorship, went to Albany, and gave his entire time to the arrangement of the museum and the manifold details of organization, a work for which he was in a special manner fitted by taste and study. He visited Europe twice and inspected all the leading medical institutions and museums, and brought back with him a choice collection of specimens, with which he enriched the college. The fact that he was made the recipient of many honorary degrees from American colleges and other institutions of learning, shows the high estimation in which he was held. lie died Dec. 3, 1875. Thomas Blauchard was born in Sutton, June 24, 1778, and manifested at an early age a remarkable mechanical genius. His first important invention was a machine for cutting and heading tacks, so perfect in design and construction that no essential improvement has ever been made upon it. He originated the cam-motion and made numerous improvements in machinery already in use; devised a new construction for steamboats designed to move in shallow water and against a rapid current, and a process by which timber of all sizes eonld be bent to any required angle and still retain its full strength, besides many other useful devices and processes, all bearing the original stamp of his mind. But his grandest achievement was the invention of a machine for tnr.iing irregidar forms, — a machine capable of a greater variety of applications than any other ever invented. This invention alone would entitle him to a place among the first of the world's great inventors. Moses L. Morse was born in Sutton, Ma}- 10, 1781. Like Clanchard, he showed from childhood a mechanical genius, and was the originator of many useful inventions, among which are the machine for making i)ins with solid heads, and scales of peculiar construction for weighing coins and other sub- stances hydrostatically. Gen. George B. Boomer was born in Sutton, July 2(5, 1832. He went West when quite young, and .at the breaking out of the war of the Rebellion was living in the State of .\rkansas. At the call for troops, he raised a company among his acquaintances and became their captain. Distinguished for braver\' and skill, he was promoted to a brigadier-generalship, and was killed at Vicksbnig, Miss., May 22, 18G3. licv. Alvan Bond, D.D., was born in Sutton, April 27, 1793; educated at Brown University and Andover Theological Seminar}' ; pastor at Sturbridge for twelve years ; professor in Bangor Theological Seminary for four years ; pastor of the Second Congregational Church in Norwich, Conn., for thirty years. Dr. Bond has contributed many articles of value for magazines and papers and edited a reprint of "Kitto's History of the Bible," &€., &c. Ho is still living among the people of his last charge. 388 TOWN OF SUTTON. Rev. Samuel Mcllen Whitinir was l)orii in Sutton, June 25, 1825 ; educated at Trinity College, Hartford, Conn., and Newton Theological Seminaiy ; wont as a missionary of tiie American Baptist Missionary Union to Assam, India ; labored in that field for ten years ; translated large portions of the Old Testa- ment Scriptures from Hebrew into Assamese, and did much, in various ways, to advance missionary work. Returning to tiiis country on account of tiie healtli of his wife, he engaged earnestly in pastoral work and in helping forward every good entcrpi-ise. He was spoken of as a profound scholar, as ])ossessed of great versatility of talent and successful as pastor and prcaihi r, teacher and translator, editor and financier. He died in Xcw Haven, Conn., Feb. 21, 1878. Hon. Jonas Sibley was born in Sutton, Nov. 7, 17G2, and was a man of prominence and influence. The estimation in which ho was held by those who knew him best is shown by the fact that he was made for nineteen years the representative of the town in the State Legislature. He was also State Senator and Repiesentative of tiie Worcester Congressional District in Congress. Jonas L. Sibley, son of the above, was born in Sutton, Jan. 4, 1791 ; gradu- ated at Brown University ; studied law with the Hon. Levi Lincoln, and estal)- lished himself in practice in his native town, which he represented for several years in the Legislature. He was U. S. Marshal of the jiort of Boston under appointment by Pres. Jackson. In his profession he had the confidence of the eommunit}', was eminent as a legal advisor and successful as a praclilioner. He died Feb. 1, 1852. Gen. Caleb Sibley was born in Sutton, April 20, 18011; gi-aduatod at West Point, entered the United States. army, and continued in the service until his death ; was captain, major, colonel and brevet brigadier-general for meritorious service in the late war. Gen. Sible}' was much esteemed l>y his companions in arms, and in every respect worthy of their confidence. We have mentioned in the foregoing sketciies only those who were nativ js of Sutton, and we might enlarge our list if space would permit. Many wlio have become adopted citizens of the town are wortliy of a place among those who have attained eminence as scholars, divines, physicians, lawyers, mechanics, &c. The town has also sent out a largo number of men of enterprise and worth, from whom have doscendo*! those who liave attained national fame, among whom may be mentioned the father of Hon. Salmon P. Chase, late Secretary of the Treasury, and Rt. Rev. Philander Chase, late Bishop in the Episcopal Church. ORIGINAL GRANTS. 389 TEMPLETON, BY VARANUS P. PARKHURST, ESQ. CHAPTER I. ORIGINAL GRANTS THE RESULTING TOWNSHIP — NATURAL ASPECTS MINE- RALS, CLIMATE, ETC. FIRST MEETING-HOUSE EARLY PROGRESS INCOR- PORATION OLD HIGHWAYS SEPARATION OF PHILLIPSTON. " I look unto the times of old, but tliey seem like reflected moon-beams in a distant lake." — Onsiau. June 4, IfiSo, the General Court of the Colony of the Massachusetts Bay in New England, on the petition of William Barrett and others of Lynn, Read- ing, Beverly and Hinghatn, " Judgelh it meet to grant the petitioners a tract <.f land in the Nipmug Country of eight miles square, for their encouragement and others that were serviceal^le to the country in the late Indian Warr." On Saturday, July 1, 1727, the Great and General Court of Massachusetts, on " a petition of Samuel Chandler and Jacob Hougiiton in behalf of them- selves and a great number of other persons shewing that the General Court of the late Colony of the Massachusetts Bay, in the year 1G8.5, did in answer to the petition of divers persons of the towns of Lyn, &c. grant them a tract of land in the Nipmug Country of eight miles square, and for their encourage- ment and others that were serviceable in the late Indian war, wliich grant was not pursued to effect and forasmuch as the petitioners were either personally jiiesent at the Fort and Fight at Narragansctt or descendants of those that were or in the strictest alliance to them, therefore praying that a grant may be made of such vacant land as may serve the pelilioners fm- settlement under such restrictions and limitations as the Court shall judge lit." The House resolved, that Maj. Thomas Tileston and others be authorized to survey, and lay out the contents of eight miles square, in some of the unappro- priated land of the Province. This was afterward changed to two townships of six miles square, and a committee appointed to prepare a list of names of the soldiers of the Narragansct war, and the descendants of those deceased, and report to the General Court. Plans of the two townshi|« were presented and allowed, one on the Souhegau River, the other adjoining Rutland and Lunenburg. 390 TOWN OF TEMPLETON. Dec. 20, 1729, :i list of the claimants of the land was presented in the Ilonse and aceoi)tod, and voted that the tracts of land be granted to the persons named in the lists, and tliat said claimants or grantees meet at Boston, on the first AVcdnesday of June next ensuing, to choose committees for ordering their affairs. On the 29th Docomber, 1730, Thomas Tileston and others, a committee for tiic officers and boldicrs of the Narragansot war, presented a petition showin"' that tlic number of said soldiers, and the legal representatives of those deceased, was so great that the grant of the Court already made them, will make so small a portion to each family as will be of liltle or no benefit to them, and l)raying that the grant be enlarged, and furtlier lime allow-ed to persons to i)nt in their claims. Tlie time was extended, and the House voted that such further grant of land be made to the petitioners, as that each one hundred and twenty persons whose claims shall be allowed by this Court may be allowed a township of the con- tents of six miles square. The Governor and Council not concurring with the House in the extension of the grant, the House of Representatives sent a message to the council, Jan. 18, 1731-2, "in order to promote good uiiderstrmding," relating that they had granted a township of six miles scpiare to each one hundred and twenty persons in answer to the petition of Thomas Tileston and others. " One great reason is that there was a i)roclamation made to the army in the name ot the Government (as living evidences very fully testify) when they were mustered on Dedham plain, where they begun the march, tiiat if ihey played tlic man, took the Fort, and drove the enemy out of the Narraganset Country, v;hich was their great seat, that they should have a gratuity in land besides their wages." Additional lists were brought in, and April 2G, 1733, it was shown that there were eight hundred and forty persons entered, officers and soldiers, and the House ordered that the |)rayer be granted, and that Maj. Ch indier, Mr. Edward Sliore, Col. TIjomas Tileston, Mr. John Ilobson and Mr. Samuel Chandler, or any three of tliem, be a committee to lay out live more tracts of land for town- ships of six miles square, in some of the unappropriated lands of the Province, and that the grantees meet, within two months, to make choice of committees respectively, to regulate each propriety or township, which is to be held and enjoyed by one hundred and twenty of the grantees, each in equal proportion, who shall pass such rules and order.^ as shall circctually oblige them to settle sixty fimilies, at least, within said township, with a learned Orthodox minister, within the space of seven years from the date of the grant. June C, 1733, the grantees met and chose committees. Oct. 29, 1733, the grantees of the Narraganset Society, Xo. fi, of which Mr. Samuel Chandler of Concord had been chosen committee, met at Jonathan Ball's tavern, in Concord, and chose a committee to lay out a township on the SURVEYS AND BOUNDARIES. 391 Itack of Riilland, "if the land there he iicomoihihlc for a to\vnshi[),"iuul adjourned to Doceniher 3, wheu the coniuiittec reported, anti the grantees voted that they will accept it. A plat of the survey of Jonas Hougiiton was returned to the General Court ill Dcceml)er, 1733, and in the following February accepted l>y the Court. I^vidcnt mistakes having been made in copying Mr. Houghton's return into the records of the Court, the following is a copy of the return itself on file iu Vol. 2, i)lan 223, Ancient Plans, &c. : — "Tuesday, Feb. 12, 1733, laid out the township numher six (for 120 of the Narra- gansett soldiers) which bounds soiithwesterlj- on the township laid out to the volunteers of Capt. Lovell and Capt. White, southeasterly mostlj' on Rutland and part on the Narragansctl township No. 2 by Wacbusett, northeasterly' partly on said township and partly on unappropriated land and northwesterly partly on the province land and partly on province town laid out on Miller's River. " It begins at Rutland northerly corner runs north thirty nine degrees west by the ncciUe three hundred and ten perch to a hemlock, thence east eighteen degrees north three hundred and forty perch to a white pine, from thence north thirty four degrees west seventeen hundred and ten rods, from thence west thirty nine degrees south twelve huiulred and eighty perch (to the said province town), from thence south three hundred and ninety perch to a white pine, from thence west eight hundred and sistj- perch to a l)each tree, the northerly corner of said volunteer's township, from thence south thirty four degrees east eighteen hundred and twenty' four perch to a heap of stones in Rut- land line, from thence east thirty degrees north to where it liegan, nineteen hundred [lerch, in which lines are contained 23440 acres viz. 23040 for the contents of six miles square, 300 acres for the Mine Farm, so called, and 100 acres for a pond that is iu it. Plan drawn to scale of 220 rds. to an inch. " Surveyed by Jonas HocGnTON. " In the House of Representatives, read, and ordered that the plat be accepted, and that the lands set forth and described in the within plat of Narragansett township No. G (exclusive of the Mine Farm so called) be and hereby are conQrmed to a hun- dred and twenty of the original grantees, their heirs and assigns, — viz., that socictj* of them of which Mr. Samuel Chandler and others were appointed a c.-mmittee for regu- lating the said township No. G (so called) at a general meeting of the grantees the Gth of .lune, as by their votes and orders m.a3- appear, — provided the plat contains no more than the quantit3- of land wiiliin mentioned and does not interfere with any former grants. " In Council read and concurred. " Consented to .J. Bklcher. " (Governor)" April 18, 1734, a committee reported to the House, "That in the case of the death of the original grantee, the right shall belong to one only, and the land shall be held by the oldest male descendant if alive, and if not, by the oldest female descendant if they please, pa^dng to the other descendants or heirs such jiroportionate parts of ten pounds (at which we judge u right ought to be valued), as such descendant or heir would be entitled to in the laud, if such land 392 TOWN OF TEMPLETON. descended according to the law of ihe Province for the settlement of intestate estates, and also what charges Ihc hoMer has been to." A meeting of the grantees of No. (5, was called April 1, 1734, when they chose Jonas Houghton, John Longlcy, and Joseph Eassett, a committee to "finish the lines of said township, and linrn the woods from time to time till fnithcr orders," then voted a tax of ten shillings for each })roprictor and adjourned till October 30, when they voted that one hundred and twenty-three fort3'-acrc lots be laid out in the best of the u[)l:ind, and chose a committee to do it. The committee were also authorized to order ways, and where the meeting-house, and where the public lots shall be, and to order land for a burying-place, and training-place, and for other public uses, according to their discretion. The township in which thc}'^ were to lay out their house-lots, lay in the northerly part of the county, twenty-six miles from Worcester, and a little to the westward of a line drawn from Wachusett to Monadnock. It is among the highlands, between the valley of the Connecticut and the Atlantic. The lead- ing feature in its topography is the broad valley of the Burnshirt and ileeting- house, or Trout Brook, extending iu a northerly and southerly direction through the ceutral part of the township. The bead waters of these two streams are in this valley, within a few rods of each other, about two and a iialf miles from the southerly side of the town, the Burnshirt tlowing south to the Ware lliver near Coldbrook, Trout Brook flowing north to Otter River in the northerly part of the township. The land rises to the east of this valley, forming a broad and comparatively level plateau, sloping to the north, on which is situated Templcton Centre. It iit, 30° north, though they afterwards decided to erect the meeling-house on the 44th lot, drawn by James Patterson. The first settled minister's lot was Xo. 41'), lying just south of No. 45. The school lot was No. oC>, and located at the southerly part of the town, with Cook Pond within its limits. The minis- terial lot, No. 'J2, was in the easterly part of the town. The next thing of importance to the proprietors was a saw-mill, and at their meeting of June 2()th, they chose a committee of Col. Prescott and four others "to agree with any proprietor or person that will erect a mill or mills in said township."' They also chose a committee to run the line adjoining Narragausct No. 2. Upon examination, it was found that part of No. 2 was included in tho phit of No. 6, estimated at 400 acres. The Court, on the 2Gth of January, 17.'')()-7, ordered : that 400 acres of the Province land. lying on the northerly side of the township, be granted for what was taken from them in this way, and that a plat of it be returned within twelve months. According to the oiiginal plan of the township, the north-easterly corner was at or near tho 394 TOWN OF TEMPLETON. cornor now existing near the Bc:inian Mill, ailjoining ^Vinchcudon, and from llienc'o the town lino ran sontii-westcriy, crossing Otter River near the month of Tront Rrook, and tlicncc over Clnn-cli Hill to tiie north-west corner of the town, which was westerly of Mr. Lewis Brigham"s house and a little south of "Lamb City." It api)ears that they secured much more than 400 acres in some way not apparent by the records, as there are n|)wards of 3,000 acres north of that line, now within the town. A meeting was held Sept, Ifi, 1742, and adjonrned to meet in the township, Oct. G, 1742, when the first meeting was held in the township on " Kidgo Hill," near w'here the Partridgeville school-house now stands. This was the last meeting attended by Samuel Chandler, who had led the society from the first; he died soon after. A contract was made with Samuel Sheldon, of Billcrica, to build a saw-mi'.l ; b;it he fiiiled to do it, and another was made with Lieut. James Simonds an 1 Reuben and Oliver Ricliardson, who built a saw-inill on 1743, in lot 91, in the east village, where the mill now occn[)ied by A. S. Hodge stands. ]Mareh 27, 1744, a meeting w-as held, and voles passed for clearing roads, and bought some hay. Hostilities commenced soon after, and the mill was burned down by the Lulians. No meeting of the pi-oprictors was held asrain imtil Sept. 20, 1749, when they met on "Ridge Hill," "and requested the owners to rectity the mill"; and, on an article to see if they will sell the hay they have on hand, the record says: "Nothing done about the ha^', for there was no hay to dispose of." May 9, 1750, voted to lay out the meadow-lots, and that four acres be the standai'd. May 8, 1751, voted to build a meeting-house, 50 feet by GO, and chose a committee: Dr. Jonathan Osgood, Deacon Christopher Page, Benj. Houghton, Thomas Ross, and Abijah Willard. Voted sixteen shillings lawful money on each right, towards building the meeting-house. Chose committee to move settlers to bring forward their settlement, according to the injunction of the General Court. Sept 11, 1751, the second division was ordered, seventy acres to be the standard for each proprietor. It is probable that the first family settled in the town in the spring of 1751. A reward had boen offered to the first sixty, and then to the first ten families who should build u house and settle. The first payment forsctlling was made Sept 11, 1751, to Elias Wilder, and in October to Chas. Baker, who fir many years was one of the most influential and useful men in the town, and died in 1813, aged eighty-five. May 13, 1752, John Whitcomb, Ilezekiah Whitcomb, El)cnezer Wright, were chosen a committee to lay out roads throughout the township. May 16, 1753, a committe w.-ts chosen to inspect the saw-mill, and it was voted that the meeting-house committee provide a place and provisions for raising the meeting-house, which was done July 3. Voted to build a corn-mill, INCORPORATION. 395 and choso a committee for (hat purpose. Voted to lay out tlic third division, fort}' acres being the stand:ird. Jan. 1, 1755, Mr. Thomas Sawyer, of Bolton, received £24 13.s. Cxi. in full for building the corn-mill. The opinion has long prevailed that this mill was built on Oltcr River, but the evidence in regard to it seems to be that it was located at " Goulding Village," in what is now Phillipston, near "Jackson Pond," where the foundation still stands. Dec. 10, 1755, Rev, Daniel Pond was ordained the first minister. The committee (o lay roads reported Dec. 15, 1754, a road three rods wide, from the common, northerly, to John Brooks' lot. No. 90; this was the road to- wards Baldwinville, and extended about to the Johnson place, now occupied l)y John Palter?on. March 19, 1759, ibis road was laid about 200 rods further, and jNIarch 25, 17G1, extended across Otter River to a pine tree. Mr. Pond and the proprietors did not agree, and he was dismissed Sept. 2, 1759, and Rev. Ebenezer Sparhawk ordained Nov. IS, 17G1, and remained the pastor until his death. Hitherto the aflairs of the township or plantation had been conducted entirely by the grantees or proprietors, in many respects, the same as towns; but the plantation, being "competently filled with inhabitants," was incorporated July 22, 17G1, as a town. The following is a cop}' of the act of incorpoiation : — Anno regni ) j- -, ( Regis Georgii tcrtii ) L • -J ) Secundo An Act for incorjwraUm) the Planla/ion called Nnrarjansctt No. G in the County of Worcester, into a Town by the Name of Tcmpklmon : Whei-eax, Tlie plantation of Nanagansett No. G, lying in the count}' of Worcester, is competently iiUeil with inhabitants who labor under great difBculties and inconveniences by means cf their not being a town : therefore, — Be it enacted by the Governor, Council, and House of Representatives, That tlie said plantation, commonly called and known l)y the name of Narragansett No. G, lioimding westerly on I'oquioge, southerly on Rutland District and Petersham, easterly on West- minster, northerly on Ipswich-Canada and Royalshiro, be, and hereby is erected into a town Iiy the name of Tomiiletown ; and that the saioth town and proprietors voted about the meeting-house and roads. The distinction between propriety and town did not appear clear in their minds. The propri'-tors had passed votes and offered rewards to induce settlers to come, and the selectmen were busy making warrants to " warn out " nearly every one who came into town. jMr. Joshua Church, who bnuglit the tlircc lots, Nos. 42, 43, 44, and Susannah Martin, the minister's " maid " servant, were alike notified and warned to dc[)art forthwith under the pains and penalties of the law. And the town ofHcers were notified when any one came, thus: — " To the Tmvn Clerk, Sir : " I would inform j'ou that Abijnh Kendall of Lancaster came to work on his laud and I took him into m}' house on ye 4th dy of October, 1765. " This from yours, " Abel Hunt. " Templeton, Nov. 4, 1765." Sept. 25, 176.5, the fourth divisiim of lots was made, tweut}'^ acres being the standard, and Oct. 29, 1777, the fifth division, si.v acres the standard. In 1785, about 900 acres of small lots of laud still remained undivided, and it was surveyed and sold at vendue in 178G. The proceeds, al"ler pa\ lug the debts, were divided among the holders of the original rights, giving lis-. G(Z. to each. About half of the rights were held by C'larlcs Baker and Joshua Wright at this time. Occasional meetings were held imtil Februarys 1817, when they voted "to adjourn this meeting to the last Wednesd.iy in May next, at one of the clock iu the afternoon, then to meet at Lipha French's." And when "May ue.\t" arrives the old heroes of the Fort and Figlit, Chandler, Houghton and Longley, who found land here "acomodable for a township," will meet a host of their descendants at Lipha French's, "according to adjournment." The records of the proprietors arc in the archives of the town com|)lete, and a parchment "plat" with the location of the first and most of the second division lots and some of the third, which is evidently the "great plat" mado by Jonas Houghton in 1735. MILLS AND ROADS. 397 Tho whole number of acres in the township, accorcling to tlie surveys of tlie lots by tlie proprietors, was 20,222. "While tho proprietors were closing out the last of the land of the township, May 3, 178G, they voted that "the laud lying near the meeting-house for a bury- ing-placc, be granted to the town for that use and purpose forever"' ; and also voted ''that the common land l)y the meeting-house be granted and appropriated to the town of Torapleton for a common for their use and benefit as such to them and their heirs forever." Plans and descriptions of both lots are in tho proprietors' records. The popidation at the time of its incorporation was about three hundred ; in 1765, three hundred and forty-eight. It was mostly located in the southerly and westerly or Phillipstou portion of the town ; only one or two appear to have located to the north of Otter River, Mr. John Stuart being one between Baldwinsville and Otter River villages. Charles Baker settled lot 81 in the Avesterly part of Phillipstou, afterward occupied by Lory Wilson and now by n. S. Miner; Abucr and Abraham Sawyer and James Carruth in the easterly part of Phillipstou; Dea. Joshua Wilder in the south on Burnshirt ; Capt. Ezekiel Knowlton and Noah Merritt in the south-east part ; Joel Fletcher, Tim- othy Hale, Sanniel Osgood, east of Baptist Common ; William Oakes near Bald- winsville ; Abucr Newton, Nathaniel Ilolman and John Coblcigh near the cen- tre. They were not wealth}- ; most of them sought homos where their wealth was to bo made. They had a meeting-house, but unfinished. They had induced parties to build a saw-mill and corn-mill; their roads were paths by marked trees. All the necessaries and conveniences of a civilized community were to be provided, as well as to clear their own lots, build their houses aud raise their subsistence. A large part of the land was held by non-residents. The next year, 17G3, Nathaniel Holman and Charles Baker, agents of the town, presented a petition to the General Court, setting forth their inability in their infant state to defray the necessary charges of the town, pay their minis- tor's salary, and finish the meeting-house, and pr.iying for a tax of one penny half-penny on each acre of land for five years successively, for those purposes. The Court granted a tax of one penny for two years. . In 17G4, Charles Baker petitioned the General Court in behalf of the selectmen to legalize the actions of the town officers, as at the last March meeting there was no justice of the peace in the town, and the old clerk had sworn the newly elected clerk, aud be the other town otHcers, and doubts had arisen in respect to their legality. The Court oidorod that the power and proceedings of tho assessors be good and valid. The town voted to "seat the mecting-housc by the last valuation," and that "the people move out of the seats after divine service according to the dignity of the seats, one scat at a time." In 17G3 a bridge was built over Otter River at Baldwinsville, by Noah Mer- ritt, and in 1762 or 1763 it seems a corn and saw mill were built on Otter River, 398 TOWN OF TExMPLETON. where Messrs. Thompson, Perlcy & Waite's chair factory now stands, by Thomas Sawyer of Holton, the man who bnilt at "Jackson Pond," and his son, Thotnus, of Templcton. The town was divided into two sides or squadrons, the east and west, by the Burnshirt and Trout Brook, and warrants for meetings were made in dnpiicatc to constables, each to warn iiis side, and in 17()4: voted that it be divided in tho same manner for schools, which undoubtedly laid the foundation for a division of the town. A great many roads were laid out. During tho tirst ten years the amount of money raised for roads was £7S3 ; for schools, £201 ; for town charges, £135 ; and in nearly the same proportions for many years afterwards. The west part of the town was much inconvenienced by their distance from meeting. The meeting-house was not located in the centre of the town, but on a spot that naturally otTered the licst situation to the proprietors as they entered the town from the east, following up the Nashua River and its branches to Westminster, and thence through what is now the southerly part of Gardner, by Mr. A. Bancroft's pail-factory, across Otter River by tho "pole bridge" about one hundred rods above the road now leading to the pail-factory ; thence through Partridgcvilie over Ladder Hill, to tho west edge of the ridge where it slopes rapidly to the valley of Trout Brook ; and tho location of a meeting-house in a valley would not have been "orthodox" in those days, but an indignit}' to (he most high hills. The minister was permitted to preach in the wTst part of the town three or four times during the winter for some years if he chose. In 1771 a warm contest appears to have taken place at a town meeting. Motions were made to set off the west part, to build a meeting-house in the west part, then to move the meeting-house into iho centre, but all passed in the negative ; but the town voted £G 13s. id. to provide preaching in the west part for that year. It was an " irrepressible conllict." Jan. 23, 1773, a petition was presented to the Genenil Court representing: "That the town of Templeton is so situated that one house for public worship will in no wise serve the whole ; that the west part of said Tem[)k'ton is now considerably 61Ied with inhabitants, and consists of the first settlers i.i said Templeton, and praying for a separate precinct, to be composed of the west part of Templeton and the east part of Athol." The pctilion was dismissed ; but the peoi)le were in earnest, and, the following June, renewed their petiticju and asked for a committee to repair to Templeton and Atliol, which wasgrantel, and the committee, after an examination of the situation, reported in favor of the petition. Feb. 16, 1774, a part of Templeton, with a part of Athol, was incorporated as a precinct. The dividing-line ran thus: "Beginning at the Ilubbardstou lino, where Burnshirt stream runs out of Teinpletori ; thence run- ning up said stream to a maple tree, being the southerly corner of Second Division, lot No. 47 ; thence running north 30° west to New Brook, so called ; thence down the brook to Royalston line ; thence west to Athol line, being the THE REVOLUTION. 309 north-west corner of Templetou." Several persons living near the dividing- line were allowed to elect which precinct they would belong to, and their elec- tion has made the dividing-line between Teuipleton and Phillipston, which is the same, quite irregular. Oct. 20, 1786, the second precinct was incorpo- rated into a town by the name of Gerry, and the legal connection of the people of the two parts was separated, yet in many respects they have remained one people. CHAPTER n. THE OPENING REVOLUTION ACTION OF THE TOWN ALARM MEN — FINANCIAL PRESSUKE AFTER PEACE SECOND WAR ^VITH ENGLAND BEGINNING OF MANUFACTURES CHAIR BUSINESS — WATER-POWER RAILROADS CHURCH HISTORY VARIOUS DENOMINATIONS SCHOOLS LIBRARIES MILITARY RECORD — WAR OF SECESSION ORGANIZATIONS. The Revolutionary conflict broke upon the people while they were clearing their lields and preparing their homes. A town meeting was held Dec. ol, 1772, "to lay befoie the Town the Proceedings of the Town of Boston with regard to our Charier Rights and li])erties," &c., and at "A very full Meeting held that day, after reading a Pamphalet, it was put to Vote whether the Town of Boston has stated our Charter Rights with the Lifiingements on them in a proppcr light. — and it Passed in the AtHrmative by a very Great Jlajm-ity, — not one Dissenter." A committee of correspondence was chosen and continued during the war. In 1774 the town chose Jonathan Baldwin to represent them in the General Court to be held at Salem. Esquire Baldwin was an energetic, public-spirited man, who came from Spencer about 17G7 or 1768 and bought largely of land where the village of Baldwinsvillo now stands, bearing his name. Ho owned the mills there that had been erected by the Sawj'ers, and represented the town several times. In 1774: the town chose a committee to provide provisions for our soldiers in case they should be called to go out to battle. It seems that i)rovisions were provided, for May 1, 1776, the General Court granted £18 ds. Ikl. to the select- men of Templett)n in full for their account for provisions supplied the army. At a town meeting Sept. 15, 1774, a committee was chosen "to wait on John Locke to see if he would oblige the town with a coi)y of his cosifcssion which he did." John Locke seems to have given offence by the expression of Toryish opin- ions and feelings ; and having sent in his confession, it was entered on tho records by the enraged people. Several others also were called on for coufes- 400 TOWN OF TEMPLETON. sioiis, wliicli wcic fiuiii.-lioil, liiit soon after an article was in tlic warrant "to sco if the town will aJlicre to the law in the conduct of the nicctinir;-," and it passed in the affirnuilive. July 30, 1770, it was voted to give up the written con- fessions. "This Roll contains Ibc travel & service of Capt. Ezekiel Knowlton and the militia Men under his Command in Col. Nathan Sparhawk's Regiment, who in cooseqaence of an Alaini on the lOlh da}' of April last marched from Teniplelon in the Count}- of 'Worcester to Cambridge for the defence of this Colonj- against the Ministerial Troops. Capt. Ezek Knowlton, 1st Lieut. Silas Cutler, Sergs. Phin Wright, Sara. Fisk, Paul Eager; Corps. Ebcn. Goodridge, Jona. Ilorton, Scth Dean; Privs. James Carrnth, Thomas Howard, Jos. Norton, Noah Merritt, Sam. Mixer, Joseph Rice, Enoch Sawtoll, Ilcrvej- Sawtell, Elias Sawyer. Silas Stone, Benj. Wesson, Jon. Wheeler, Israel Whit- comb, Jona. Wittington, Elicn. Wright, Abia Ball, Jona. Ilolman, Silas Church, .John Atwood, Jr., Jonas Bruce, David Cranson, Robert Holden. Jona. Jackson, Benj. Jones, Wra. Linckun, Edin Stone, Ezra Wliitcomb, Sam. Willington, '* Janv. 4, 1776. Signed & certified bv Capt. Kiiow'.lon. In Council, March 25lh, 1771J. " Read and payment ordered. ''£4.5 5s. del." — {Military Records at State Hnuse), " Lexington Alarm," Vol. 12, 158. The following from the "Court Records" will illustrate the condition of the men : "The General Court o;i petition of Ehcnczcr AVriglit that he engaged in the public service upon the alarm in the month of Apiil 1775, and actually marched to Cambridge with a considerable number of his fellow-soldiers from Tcmpleton, who refused to enlist aud further engage in the service unless they could bo provided with some articles of clothing and blankets of which they were destitute, and accordingly being desired by the ofBccrs as well as by the soldiers themselves, your petitioner left Cambridge aud spent eight days, with great diligence, in procuring and carr3'ing to said soldiers, said necessary clolh- iug and blankets, and ^our petitioner thinks himself justly entitled, on account of the expense of his own time, of his horse, and necessary charges to the reward of £8." The House granted £2 8.s. Tlic town afterwards voted to fiirnis'.i each soldier with a blanket. Ill 1775 Capt. Joel Fletcher commanded a company in Col. Doolittle's regi- ment. James Bigelow enlisted April 2(5 fi'om Templeton. Capt. Jonath.an Ilolman also commanded a company in Col. Doolittle's regiment, and Jo!m Atwood and John Atwood, Jr., enlisted from Templeton, June 3d. On Capt. E. Knowlton's muster-roll for Nov. 30, 177G, three months' ser- vice, arc the following names from Templeton : Asaph Hrown, Jo.soph Knowlton, Oliver Wy man, Daniel Davis, Ei)hraim Shattuck, William IIud?on. In 177!) those men were in tho service : Salmon Whitney, Timothy Metcalf, John Piper, John Adams, George Farrow, Bannister Maynard. In 1780, Edward Kell}'. Capt. John Richardson also commanded a company some time during the war. FINANCIAL DIFFICULTIES. 401 Capt. Jach (as he was familiarly called), the father of Capt. John Richardson, was an enthusiastic military officer, aud delighted in attending musters. lie lived to become so feeble that his children, with whom he lived, thought it imprudent for him to go to a muster one fall, and, in order to prevent his going, hid the reins to the harness, and his hat. Habits of military discipline did not allow him to be diverted by such trifles. lie hitched the old horse in the wagon and started, reinless and hatless, for the common. Seeing his determination, the reins and hat were brought out, and he was driven up by an attendant. Coming on to the common, asthc troops were drawn up in line, the commanding officer recognized him ; arms were presented, and the old hero rode down the line amid the cheers of the people. The depreciation of the currency, towards the close of the war, led to con- ventions and towns "stating prices," and Mr. Thomas White was chosen to attend a convention at Concord in October, 1779. The town, as usual, ex- pressed their opinion, for his guidance, — "that salt and rum were too high, in proportion to mutton, veal and lamb, which this town are of the opinion are too low; for although four shillings a pound seems to make a sound, what is it? Why, it is cheaper than it was even when our currency was looked upon equal to silver." The town afterwards "stated" some prices: Laborers in hus- bandry, £2 14s. per day; women's labor, £2 per week; a good common dinner, 14s. ; New England flip (or toddy) 15s. per mug ; Indian corn, £3 12s. per bushel. In an inventory of Abner Sawyer's estate, appraised Dec. 25, 1779, a yoke of oxen were £300 ; six cows, £G00 ; one pair of boots, £30 ; one suit of blue clothes, £1G2. In 178(5 the town petitioned the General Court to grant relief by making all property a tender, in payment of executions ; also, for a bank of paper money. In 1785 a portion of the town, lying on the east side of Otter River, was taken ofl" on the incorporation of Gardner. The town consented to the division, and 587 acres, by the proprietors' survey, was taken olT. Pr>)bably there were no inhabitants on this tract at the time, though it is said that the first person that lived in Templeton was a trapper, who lived on the cast side of Otter River, near the house formeily occu[)ied by L:ifa3ette Coleman. Capt. John Richardson aud Mr. Joel Grout were delegates to the Convention of 1779-80 ; Capt. Joel Fletcher to the Convention of 1787, to ratify the Con- stitution of the United States. Capt. Ezekiel Knowlton, Col. Silas Cutler, and Capt. Leonard Stone were leading men, and, with those above mentioned, represented the town on important occasions during the remainder of the century. In 1799 the fifth Massachusetts Turnpike Corporation was incorporated by the Legislature — its road running through this town, which added much to its convenience and business. The new century began with the same pastor of the first parish, but his labors 402 TOWN OF TEMPLETOX. wore soon closed by his death, which occurred Nov. 25, 1805, after an illness of !V few da3's, at the age of sixty-seven. Serious differences had, at times, existed between Mr. Sparhawk and many of his pc()|)Ie ; but their mutual good sense overcame them all. The pari.-^h and town liad l)een tlic same u[) to aijout this time, when tlio connection was severed in 1806. The same year the parish selected Rev. Charles Wellington to succeed Mr. Sparhawk, and he was ordained Feb. 25, 1807. Soon a new meeting-honse was built near the old one, — a large and fine church, — which was dedicated Sept. 9, 1811, and a bell placed in the tower, to call the people together. Musical instruments were introduced in church, by vote of the town, in 1804. The second war with Great Britain was not popular with the people of the town, and a memorial to the President was voted, against it. Several persons were in the army, during the war, from this town ; for instance : Herman Part- ridge, Thomas Richardson, and James Crocker, for some time. Little had been done in manufactures l)cyond the sup[)ly of the wants of the people. Mr. Silas Saw3'cr had a grist-mill at the south part of the town, below Mr. Wilkinson's, and a saw-mill at the same place. Eden Baldwin had a grist- mill and saw-mill at Baldwinsville. At the cast part of tiie town the saw and grist mill of John Simonds had gone to decay ; an oil-mill, where C. N. John- son's toy and wagon factory now is, was also in ruins. About this time a Mr. Cambridge had a clothier's factory at Otter River Village, and soon after Mr. Nathan Smith had sonic machinery for carding at the same place. These were the manufacturing establishments of the town, except the hand-loom and wheel. In 1813 Joel Fales came from Walpole, bought out the mills of John Simonds, repaired the saw and grist mill, and commenced business. He soon put another run of stones in the grist-mill. Mr. Fales and Artemas Brown l)ought the Brooks mill at the Flood-wood, and set it up opposite the house of Mrs. Geoi-ge Sawyer, afterwards ow-ued by Moses M. Gage and George Sawyer. Soon after, Mr. Fales erected another shop near the spot now occupied by J. G. Fales & Co., and commenced the manufacture of scythes, which was carried on several j-ears. He also had a small furnace, and did some casting of wagon boxes and other small articles. He had a trip-hammer, and engaged in the manufacture of hoes, which was carried on quite extensively, in company with his son, Otis P. Fales. His son Joel G. began to turn chair-stock in the saw-mill. Mr. Fales' enterprising character gave a name to the village, which it retained for a long time. It was about 1820 that the chair business was begun in this town. Mr. Newell Day had a shop on the west side of the reservoir poiid, opposite the house of Mr. Isaac Lufkin, where he made wood-seat chairs. Peter Pierce made chairs south of the meeting-honse, on Pierce's Brook, near where Mr. Leander Leland formerly manufictured shoe-pegs and measures, and the Leiand cider-mill now stands. Stephen Osborne and a Mr. Kilburn made LOCAL INDUSTRIES. 403 chairs at Caldwinsville ; Geo. W. ami Augustus Jones at Partiiilgcville. There were from twelve to iiftoen men engaged in the ehair-business, imluding the painters. The posts, stretchers, and spindles, for the chairs, were split out of logs, then shaved into octagonal form, before being put in the turuing-lalhc. The farmers busied themselves in the winter season in getting out this stock for the turners. In 1825 Mr. Jonathan Whitney bought out Newell Day, and carried on the business for many years, and Day went to Otter River, where he made chairs for some time. A small turning-shop stood on the reservoir dam at East Templeton at the time. About 1827 or 1828 Mr. Whitney began to make (lag-scat chairs, and they became popular. The chairs were finished, and sent about the country to dealers, by the manufacturers. Since that time cane or lattan bus been introduced in the seating of chairs, and the business has become the leading pursuit of the people of the town. The principal watcr-jjower is located near the boundary-lines of the town. At Baldwinsville, to the north part, is the largest water-])owcr in town. On Otter River, at Jonesville, or Otter River Village, about two miles above, is another extensive water-power. The next in extent is on Mill Brook, at Falesville, or East Templeton, in the east part. Trout Brook furnishes a con- siderable water-power one mile west of the Common, and Burnshirt, at the southerly part of the town. At Baldwinsville the grist and saw-mill of Capt. Baldwin gave place to the large lumber-factory of Col. Oilman Day and E. Sawyer, and that to the extensive chair manufactory of Thompson, Perley & Waite, who also occupy another mill-site below. Smith, Day & Co. and L. Greenwood & Co., also manufacture chairs at Baldwinsville. At East Templeton Fales & Iligly bought the saw-mill of Joel Fales, and made chairs, and were succeeded by Parker, Jennison & Co., and Parker, Sawyer & Co., W. Greenwood & Co., and R. McLean & Co., and at present the business is carried on by V. P. Parkhurst, J. G. Fales & Co., A. S. Ilodge, and the East Templeton Chair Company. The manufactuic of pails and tubs was formerly carried on by Capt. Joseph Davis at Baldwinsville, and at East Templeton by T. T. Greenwood ullard left, the society became weak, and was merged iu the First Unitarian Society of Uj^ton, which was organized in 1840. They erected a church in the centre of Upton, which was dedicated in 1848. Rev, AVilliam C. Tenny was the first regular preacher, but left iu 1849, and is now living in Kansas City, Mo. Mr. Tenny was succeeded by Rev. George S. Ball, who has been their minister from that time tmtil the present, with the exception of some two years, when he was at Plymouth, and some eighteen months ho was chaplain of the twenty-first regiment in the late civil war. Mr. Ball is a graduate of Mcadville Theological School. In the years 1873 and 1874, Hon. William Kuowlton built a fine church in West Upton, the use of which he has given to the Unitarian Society. In the year 1874, the proprietors of the Unitarian Society sold their church in the centre to the Roman Catholics for $5,000. They still worship in it. Father Barrett of Grafton is their spiritual adviser. A Methodist Society was formed in 1873. Their first preacher was Rev. N. B. Fiske. He labored with them three years ; succeeded in building a church. His successor was Rev. Johu Short, and he was followed by Rev. Mr. Hubbard, their present minister. There was a Universalist Society formed March 9, 1825, but it became merged into the Unitarian Society in 1847. 41 G TOWN OF UPTON. CHAPTER II. SCHOOLS AND LIBRART — MILITARY HISTORY WAR OF SECESSION — AGRI- CULTURE MANUFACTURES BOOTS AND SHOES MILLS STRAW GOODS POLITICAL CONNECTION POPULATION AND STATISTICS. Some of the first acts of the town were concerniuj? schools. The records show that in some of the first years of their political existence they raised money for such purposes. For the last fifteen or twenty years they have main- tained an eflScient high school ; and the one now keeping is quite flourishing under the care of Stephen II. Snow. The town also established a free public library in 1874, which now contains some thirteen hundred volumes. About two years after its establi>hment Hon. William Knowlton gave the town a donalion of $500 to purchase books ; and much interest has since been taken to replenish it with new ones. William Knowlton & Sons have quite a large private lil)rary in their manufactory at AYest Upton, established far the benefit of their emi)Ioyes. The early records of the town were poorly kept, and are badly defaced. We know by tradition only that she did her duty on all trying occasions, and furnished her quota of men in all the gi'eat struggles for liberty. She was well represented in the French and Indian wars. Two or more at least of Putnam's Rangers were citizens of Upton. The}' entered early into t!ie Revolutionary contest. March 2G, 1770, the following resolves were passed unanimously : — " Therefore, Resolved, That we will tioat with contcinpt all those persons that do con- tinue to iinijort goods from Great Britain contrary to the jioH-importalion agreement ; and that we will look upon such men with detestation, who, for the sake of their own private interest, are willing to reduce their posterity and their country to a state of abject slavcr\'. " Therefore, Resolved, That wc will not purchase or drink any foreign teas until the revenue acts are repealed, and that we will discountenance in our forailies the wearing of or using any foreign superfluities, and that we will use every lawful method in our power to encourage our own manufactures." Upton furnished her fidl quota in the Revolution, and also iu the war of 1812-14. To-day three widows are receiving pensions for services ren- dered by their husbands in the war of 1812, — those of Samuel King, Hosca Trnmbidl and Lambert Pierce. In the war of the Rebellion, Upton was early in the field. Five of her sons served in the 3d battalion of rifles, being mustered in May 19, 18GI ; nainel}-, William II. Aldrlch, II. T. Bradish, Silas Dunn, George E. Childs and Charles K. Stoddard. Upton w.as credited with one hundred and ninety-two soldiers furnished for the Rebellion ; and twenty-eight residents of Upton were credited to other towns. The late Arba T. Wood, who did good service as recruiting MANUFACTURES. 417 officer for Upton, claimed that the town enlisted and put into the war two hun- dred and tliirty effective men. No largo number were enli.-ited at any one time, so the town was represented in almost all of the regiments. She had men in the 2d regiment; in the 7th, 9th, 13th, 15th, IGth, 17th, 18th, 19lh, 20th, 21st, 22d, 25th, 2(;th, 28th, 32d, 34th, 3Gth, 39th, 42d, 51st, 57th, 58th, Gist; iu 2d, 4th and 5th Cavalry, in the 3d and 4th Heavy Artillery, in the 3d bat- talion of Eiflemen, in the 7th Battery, in the Veteran Reserve Corps, in the 2d company of Sharpshooters, and in the Nav}'. Being represented in so many different organizations, her sons were on almost ever}' battle-field in the late contest; and the loss of life was correspondingly large. Being so scattered, few of her men became officers. Rev. George 8. Ball was chaplain of the 21st regiment. Charles K. Stoddard was first lieutenant in the 2lst regiment. He was killed by a sentinel Sept. 30, 18G1, near Baltimore. Harry T. Bradish was lieutenant in company I, 51st regiment. Quite a number of others held minor offices. Some twenty-eight of her sons were killed on the field, or died from wounds received in l)attle. Three died in Andersonville prison; namely, Harrison T. Bosworth (who died July 4, 1864), Charles E. Haynes and Charles H. Thompson. Upton is a good farming town. The southern portion is particnlary adapted to grain, especially for Indian corn. Tradition says that for years before tiie white man trod these grounds the Indians used to grow corn upon the extensive pine plains in the south part of the town. The north and east parts are well adapted to fruit, especially the apple. IVIuch attention has been paid of late to the raising of hay, and many old swamps have beeu roclaimetl which prove very productive. In the early history of the town considerable attention was paid to the man- ufacture of boots and shoes. In the early settlement AViliiam Howe had quite an extensive tannery business. He was succeeded by John Hill ; but the busi- ness is now discontinued and the "vats" filled up. Among some of the boot and shoe manufacturers were John Hill, Daniel Nelson, Josiah Pease, Jr., Adams Batchelor, Adam Wheelock, Reuben Eames, Millet Baker, Newton Warren, Amos Batchelor and Asa Wood. Eli Warren built up a large shoe business at West Upton, to which succeeded his son-in- law Daniel W. Batchelor, and his grandson Eli AV. Batchelor. D. G. Rawson, now of Newton, and the head of the large boot manufactory of D. G. Rtiwson & Co., began business in Upton, his native place. Also his brother, Tyler Rnwson, who died a few j'ears ago in Chicago at the head of one of the largest shoe manufactories in that great cit3\ Quite a number of the sons of Upton went south early in the century and went into the shoo tr.ide. The Stoddards, Nelsons and Tafts did quite a trade in Charleston, S. C, and the Wood brothers in Savannah, Ga. Prior to 1820 rifles and gnus were mauufacturcd at West Upton, but not to a large extent. TOL II.— 48 418 TOWN OF UPTON. Owing to the scarcity of water-power, no mills, save grist and saw mills, have been erected, save one on the extreme limit of the town near Milford. Many jcars ago Ebenezer Hunt erected a woolen-miil at the foot of Long Pond, where lie mannfacturcd woolen goods for a long time ; but the mill was long ago Imrncd and the waters are now used as a reservoir, and controlled by the manufacturers of Woousockct, R. I. As early as 1712, Peter IIoll)rooli, Sr., of Mendon, sold to his son Peter, for the consideration of one dollar and his love and esteem for his son, a tract of land on Beaver BrooU, so called, in West Upton. Peter at once erected a saw and grist mill, which was afterwards owned by David, Simeon, and Daniel Holbrook, and also by Stephen Taft, Nahum Ilolbrook, and Loring Benson. In 1848 the property was purchased by V. Taft & Co., who erected a large shop for the manufacture of shoe, boot, and bonnet boxes, and also a shop for the manufacture of doors, sashes, and blinds. The box-shop was run by the late A. T. Wood, who afterwards i)urchased the property. Thomas J. & Xahum B. Hall ran the sash and blind shop for many years, and were quite successful. They sold out to Mctcalf Comstock, who ran the concern until the buildings were burned in 1874. After the decease of Arl)aT. Wood, the property was purchased by L. W. Hill, and is now owned by L. AV. Hill & Son. After the burning in 1874, Mr. Hill erected the saw-mill and box-fiictory only, and is now engaged in the manufacture of bonnet, shoe, and boot boxes. A saw and grist mill was erected, in the early settlement of the town, in the centre. It was owned and run for many years by the " Wards," grandfather, fiither, and son. "The Old Mill and Capt. Ward, the Honest Miller," are among the his- torical traditions of the town. As early as 1730 "Miller Fiske" erected a saw and grist mill in the easterly part of the town, on jNIill River, close by the line of Milford. These mills have always been known as the "Fiske Mills"; and are now owned, and alwajs have been, bj' the descendants of "Miller Fiske" since his decease. There was a saw-mill erected before the organization of the town in the south-east section, by Israel Taft, a grandson of Roijcrt Taft, one of the early settlers of Mendon. The mill is now owned and run by Perly P. Taft, a grand- son of Israel Taft. There have been a few other mills erected in other places in town, but, owing to lack of business or want of water, they have gone to decay. But the great business of Upton has been and is the manufacture of straw-goods, she having been among the first towns to engage in this industry. Soon after the war of 1812, the Underwood Brothers did, for those times, quite a business in the manufacture of bonnets. They were followed by Dea. Daniel Fisko and Harvey Bradish, who. in connection with the West India and dry- goods trade, did quite a business iu the manufacture of straw-cord and straw trimmings of all kinds. Lyman and Elijah Stoddard also were active in the same line, and Miss Henrietta Colburn was extenaively engaged iu straw cord, gimp, and " seven-braid." STRAW-WORKING. 419 As early as 1825, Capt. William Legg was engaged in the same business. He kept the hotel in West Upton antl also a dvy and West India goods store; but, selling out his store and iiolel in 1832, he gave his whole time to the manu- facture of straw-goods. In 183,5 bo took into partnership lion. William Knowlton, the present senior partner of \Viiiiam Knowlton & Sons. They at once erected a large and commodious shop, and a large boarding-bousc for the accommodation of their women help. Legg and Knowlton remained together some ten or twelve years, when Legg retired. Joseph S. Farnum was a short time in partnership with Mr. Knowlton. After Farnum's retirement, the busi- ness was cariied on alone by Knowlton until his sons became of age. The firm is now William Knowlton & Sons, and consists of William Knowlton, Edwin F. Knowlton, George W. Knowlton, and Eben F. Knowlton. Their salesroom is at 537 Broadway, New York, and Edwin F. is at the head in New York ; George W. is the general manager at West Ui)ton. They have extended their works so that to-day they have the facilities to manufacture as many goods as any straw-shop in the country ; and they give employment to a large numl)(;r of persons, both male and female. Their buildings are large, all heated by steam, and lighted by gas of their own manufacture. They have a stationary engine, used, if necessary, to extinguisb fires. Their buildings are abundantly su[)plicd with water, both for mechanical purposes and for fire. They pride themselves on manufacturing as " tasty " a bonnet as is made on the Continent, and it is no dis[)aragement to other manufacturers to say that the goods manufactured by William Knowlton & Sons rank as high as any in the market, A large portion of the material made into bonnets is imported, — a large amount from China. Their market is the whole country. Most of their help are Americans, though of late years they have cmploN-ed many English- men that formerly worked on straw in Luton, Eng. A large portion of their female help is farmers' daughters from neighboring towns and from Maine and New Hampshire. Manj' a thrifty housewife has earned her "setting out" in the straw-shop at West Upton. In the busy season they ship their goods every day, and sometimes twice a day. Their goods are all shipped to New York and sold from there. Benson & Nelson have quite an establishment in the centre of the town for the manufacturing of boys' hats. Their business is increasing from 3'ear to year and adds materially to the prosperity of the town. L. W. Hill & Son, at their mill in West Upton (on the site of the "Ilolbrook Mills"), do an exten- sive business in box-making. They also have a planing-mill and do general job-work. Seth T. Davenport has also a small shop on the same stream, manuficturing sashes and blinds. There are three gristmills in tf)wn, and five saw-mills. At two of them — Fiskc's Mill and at P. P. Taft's — some shingles are made. There are also four blacksmiths' shops and two shops where they make and repair carriages. 420 TOWN OF UPTOX. Four West India anJ dry-goods stores arc kept in town, also one hotel — the " Warren House" — at West Upton. This same huilding has been used for a hotel for more than a century, and at one time was a noted stasre- tavern, it Iieing the place where passengers going from Worcester to Providence dined. There are a Congregational, a Methodist and a Roman (Catholic church, all situated in the centi'c ; also, a Unitarian church at West Upton. Upton and West Upton have post-ofSces, and the latter village a telegraph office ; but there are no railroads in Upton. The Boston and Albany runs just north of the town, and the Providence and Worcester just south ; and the Mil- ford stops just east of her borders. There is a daily mail from Boston and West Upton by the way of Milford, and -twice a day from Worcester through Upton Centre by the way of Farnum's. Before the introduction of railroads, the trade of Upton was largely with Providence, R. I. The first mail-route established through the place was from Providence to Worcester, and it was not until after the Boston and AVorcester Railroad was built that direct postal communication was had witii Boston. Upton is at present reckoned in the Ninth Congressional District (repre- sented by Hon. W. AV. Rice of AVorcester) ; also in the Second Councillor District, the Second AA'orcester Senatorial District, and the Second Worcester County Representative District, comprising the towns of Milford, Mendou, and Upton : said district beiug a double one and entitled to two representatives annually. The population of Upton was, in 1850, 2,023; in 1860, 1,980; in 1870, 2,018; and in 1875, 2,125. She has a town debt of $10,690.70; against which she reckons a valuation made up of, school-houses, $5,600 ; town library, $1,000; town hall, $2,000; cemeteries, $1,200; town farm, $1,000; water- works, $800; fire-engines, $1,500. This stands for the public assets; the taxable list being, real estate, $041,769, and personal property, $204,890. The number of polls in 1879 was 510, and of school children between five and fifteen years of age, 318. The town lies thirty-four miles from Boston, twenty-eight from Providence, and thirteen from AA'orcester. FORMATION OF THE TOWN. 421 U XB Pv I D G E BY GEORGE A. STOCKWELL, A. M. CHAPTER I. INCORPORATION AND EARLY niSTORT THE TOWN CHURCH THE REVOLUTION. The town of Uxbridge lies in the south-eastern part of the county, bordered on the north by Northbridge, on the west by Douglas, on the south by Bur- rillvllie and Smithfield, R. I., and on the east by Blackstone and Mendon. The distance from the shire town is eighteen miles, and from the capital, forty- two. The Indian name of Uxbridge was Wacnntuck, or Waentug. Little is known concerning the Indian inhabitants. They belonged, however, to the Nipmuck nation, were visited by Eliot and Gookin, and, previous to King Philip's war, there was in Uxbridge, or Wuentug, a band of " Christian con- verts." The largest settlement was east of the present centre of the town, on the plain between the Mumford and West rivers. In the Kuttatuck, or Nip- muck (Blackstone) River, lamprey and salmon abounded at certain seasons of the jear. Early in the year 1727 the inhabitants of Mendon, living in the western part, petitioned the town " to vote them otf," that they might be incorporated as Ji separate town. On March 31, 1727, the town of Mendon, " by unanimous vote," granted the prayer of (he petitioners, and snbse(juently a petition of the inhabitants aforesaid was presented to the General Court, and received action on June 15, 1727, as follows : — "A Petition of sundry Iiibabitants of the Western Part of the Town of Mendon, Shewing tliat for many years they and their Families have laboiirod under great Difficul- ties by Reason of their Ueraoteness from the Place of pul)Iick Worship in the said Town, that they have applied to the said Town for tiicir Consent to their being set off a sepa- rate Town & that a Meeting of tiie Inii.ahitants legally warne:l and held the thirty-first of March last, an Unanimous Vole was passed for the Petitioners being set off accordingly ; And therefore Praying that this Court would please to constitute them a separate Township by such hounds as have been agreed to by the said Town of Mendon in their Votes passed as aforesaid. 422 TOWN OF UXBRIDGE. '* In the House of Rcprescntalives ; Read and Ordered that the Prayer of the Peti- tion be granted, and that the Petitioners have leave to bring in a Bill accordingly ; In Conncil, Read & Concurred, Provided the Grant of the Township within mentioned bo not construed to effect the Rights & Properties of any Persons to lands within the same. In the House of Representatives : Read & concurred." The western part of Mcudon was incorporated as a "separate and distinct town " on June 27, 1727, and named U.xbridge, in honor of Henry Paget, Earl of Uxbridge, and at that time a member of the privy council. Following is a copy of the Act of incorporation : — " Anno Regni Regis Georgii Dkcimo Tertio. " All Act for dimding the Town of Mendnn and Erecting a new Town there by the name of Uxbridge. " WJiereas, the Westerl}' part of the Town of Mendon within the County of Suffolk is competentl3' filled with Inhabitant? who labor under great diflicutties by their remoteness from the place of Publiclc Worship &c., and have thereupon made their application to the s'd Town of Mendon, and liavc likewise addressed this Court, that they m.ay be set off a distinct and separate Town, and be vested with all the powers and privileges of a town ; & the Inhabitants of Mendon having Consented to their being Set off accordingly, — " Be it Therefore Enacted by the Lieutenant Governor, Council & Representatives in General Court assembled, and by the Authority of the same. That the Westerly part of the s'd Town of Mendon, do & hereby is sett off and constituted a separate Township by the name of Uxbridge, the bounds of the town to be as followeth. That is to say. Beginning at the Soulh-Wcst corner of the Town of Mendon, at the Province South line, thence to run Four miles East with the Province line, then to a Northal line paralel with the AVcst line of the s'd Town until that line meet with a small brook that runs between the West hill & Jlisco hill, then y° s'd brook to be the bounds to the West River, then the West River to be the bounds to a brook known by the Name of Andrew's Brook, which brook shall be the bounds to the North line of the Township ; and that the Inhabitants of the s'd Lands as before described and bounded, be and hercljy are vested with the powers, privileges and Immunities that the Inhabitants of any of the Towns of this Province are, or ought by law to be vested with. '■^Provided, the Grant of Ihe s'd Township be not Cjnstrucd to affect the Rights and Properties of any persons to lands within the same. " Provided also, that the Inhabitants of the said Town of Uxbridge do, within the Space of two years from the Publication of this Act, Erect and finish a suitable House for the Publick Worship of God & procure and settle a learned Orthodox Minister of good conversation and make provision for his comfortable and lionorable Supjjort and that Ihey set apart a Loft of not less than one hundred acres of Land in some conven- ient place in the said Town near the Meeting House for the use of the Ministry & likewise provide a Scliool Master to Instruct their youih in writing and reading. "June 27, 1727; This Bdl having been read three several limes in the House of Representatives ; Passed to be Enacted. " William Dudlev, Speaker. EARLY TOWN ACTION. 423 " June 27, 1727 ; This Bill having been read three several times in Council ; Passed to be Enacted. "J. WiLLAUD, Secretary. " By the Honor.able, the Lieutenant Governor ; I consent to the Enacting of this Bill. "William Ddmmer. " In the House of Representatives ; Ordered, That Mr. Solomon Wood, a principal Inhabitant of the Town of Uxbridge, be impowered & directed to notif}' & summon the Inhabitants, duly qu,aliQed for Voting, to meet & assemble for the Chusing of Town Odicers to stand until the next annual election according to Law. " In Council ; Read & Concurred ; Consented to, " William Ddjumer." The first town meeting, of which the following is the record, was held ou July 25, 1727: — " The inh.abitants of the town of Uxbridge being by order from the Honorable General Court to Mr. .Sollomon Wood and by him Legally Warned, Met and made choice of Town Oflicers for the present year. The persons elected into ofllce were the under written : Moderator, Sollomon Wood ; Selectmen, Robert Taft, Ebenezer Read, Wooland Thompson, Lieutenant Joseph White, Edmund Rawson ; Surveyors of highways, Solomon W(jod, James Keith, John Emerson ; Constables, Thomas While, AVjlliam Brown, Jr. ; tylhing-men, Joshua Whitney, Joseph Taft; treasurer, Solomon AVood ; fence-viewers, John Cook, William Ilolbrook ; hog-reaves, Gershom Keith, Simon Peck." At the secoud meeting of tlie inhabitants of Uxl)ritlge, on August 25, at the iiouse of John Farnura (where, probably, the first was held), "it was put to vote to see if the town will come into some method to fix a Spot to Build a meeting house for the public worship of God amongst us, that may be con- veniant for the whole town to assemble in by Pitching on a Spot to Build on themselves or by leaving the aifuir to some nnconserned Gentlemen to fix a spot in the Sentcr of the Town." At a meeting held subsequently, " it was voted to Sett ye Meeting House on ye Southside of Drabble Tail Brook, hut seeing it would be inconvenient to Set it where the First Vote specified They recalled said vote & passed a vote that they would Sett the Meeting Iiouse within the Fence of Ebenezer Read's pasture ou a place which they had viewed for & judged convenient for that purpose." On Oct. 20, 1727, Mr. Ferry's offer to preach for twenty shillings a Sabbath was accepted ; and, at the s;mie meeting, it was voted to build a meeting-house, forty feet in length, thirty-five feet in breadth, and nineteen feet "between j >ynts" ; and the inhabitants were " warned that they could have liberty to work out their proportion of the lax." On March G, 1728, the town voted, "not to free the Quakers." At the same meeting a committee was appointed, " for to provide some snteablo person for to preach unto us." At a meeting held on July 8, 1728, it was voted, "to procure fifteen gallons 424 TOWN OF UXBRIDGE. of good rum for yo raising of ye meeting house." The church edifice was raised, and carried so far toward completion that services of the order, and town meetings were heUl in it in January of the following year. It was a rude structure, without clapljoards or paint, iielfry or stecjjle, and, for several years, contained only one pew, designed for the pastor's family ; the other memlicrs of the congregation silting upon I)are benches, the men on or.c side of the house and the women on the other. This house of worship stood on or near the site of the present First Congregational church edifice, and was in use until 1773, when it was removed and a new one erected at the same place. On Jan. 28, 1729, a committee was appointed "to consider about getting a minister;" and on July 18, the town voted to give Othnicl Campbell seventy pounds yearly salary and one hundred pounds " for encouragement to settle amongst us in the Gospel ministry." Mr. Campbell declined this offer, and it was made to and accepted by Nathan Webb, who was ordained on Feb. 7, 1731, and remained until his death, on March 17, 1772. In May, 1730, the first "contributi(jn was taken u|) to support preaching." One of the earlier acts of the town was that of laying out a "way from yo road on the east side of West River to ye road on ye west side of the Great Kiver where it may be convenient for ye inhabitants to come to Meeting and Mill in ; also a way to accommodate ye inhabitants about Neshochong and ye southerly part of ye town." At a meeting held on Ma}' 14, 1730, a committee was chosen "to go in ye town's behalf to see about letting the Fish come up ye Great River in case other towns should send to Providence to join with them" ; also, at the same meeting, it was "put to vote whether they would grant any Boimty for killing wolves, but it passed in the negative." On Jan. 25, 1732, it was voted "to set up and keep a school in ye town of Uxbridge, and that a school-dame be secured for seven or eight months in the year." This vote was reconsidered "under ye consideration of having a school master in town." During the same or the following year, George Woodward, the first teacher in Uxbridge, conducted a school in the meeting-house for nine months, and received for that service fifteen pounds. The only school in Uxbridge, as far as known, for more than twenty years, was kept in the meet- ing-house. On March 2, 17.53, it was voted "to squadron j'e schools in con- venient places where it should be kept," when, according to the practice of other towns at that time, the school was doubtless kept in difffront places at different times by one and the same teacher. On March 2, 1732, the town voted to provide a pair of stocks "for tiio benefit of such disorderly persons as might need correctionary and salutary reproof." lu 1776, on September 1, the town voted "to allow ye Representative to vote to make good the lieutenant Governor's damage Latly Sustained by ye mob in Boston if he thinks proper upon the best information he can git." h\ KESIDENCE OF Ll.VI WILSON, UXBRIDQE, MAS EEVOLUTIOXARY NOTES. 425 1772 the luirtlicrn part of Uxbridge was set off to form the district of Xorth- bridgo. The first act of tiie town of Uxbridge, witli respect to the Revolution, was the api)()intnicnt of a committee on Jul}' G, 1774, "to correspond with commit- tees tliat now or sliall be ciioscn by any towns in this province for the purpose on any Mutur that may respect the present difficulty that now or may subsist between Great Britain and North america." This committee consisted of Samuel Read, Joshua Wood, Moses Taft, Seth Read, Joseph Chapin, Moses Keith, Dexter Wood, Simeon Wheelock, and Nehemiah Hall. On Oct. 26, 1774, it was voted in town meeting "to purchase five barrels of powder and as much shot as was proper," and a committee was chosen "to pro- vide for soldiers who may be called to march." In January, 1775, the town voted "to carry the resolves of the continental congress into execution," and a committee of inspection was appointed "to see them strictly adhered to in this town." At this meeting, Benjamin Green was elected a delegate to the Continental Congress to ije held at Cambridge, and, on i\Iay 31 of the same year, Abuer Rawson Avas chosen to attend the Conti- nental Congress at Watcrtown. At the May meeting in 1776, the following article was acted upon : — "To see if the town will vote if the Honorable Congress should, for the safely of the United Colonies Declare themselves Independent of the Kingdom of Great Britain. Whether they will solemnly Engage with their lives and fortunes to support them in the Mesnre, and it passed in the affirmative." In Jul}^ 1776, it was voted "to grant six pounds to each person who shall Enlist in behalf of this town to go to Canada, or the Northern Department, agreeable to the late act." During this year (1776), Abner Rawson represented the town in the Gen- eral Court, and Joseph Read the following 3"car. In May, 1777, the town chose "b}- written votes," Seth Read "to procure and La}' before the court the Evidence that may be had of the Inimical dispo- sition of any Inhabitant of this town towards this or any of the United States who shall be chtirged l)y the freeholders and other Inhabitants of said town, or if their residence within this State is lookt ui)on to be dangerous to the pnl)lic peace and Safety." In May, 1777, the town voted to instruct its representative not to vote for the proposed form of constitution and form of government. In March, 1778, it was voted "to send to the soldiers now in actual service ill the Continental Army in behalf of the town of Uxbridge for three years, or during the war, two shirts, one pair of tow breaches, two pair of stockings and one pair of shoes," and a committee was chosen "to procure s'd cloathing." During the year 1778, two thousand pounds were raised "to provide for soldiers in the Continental Army"; and in the same year "men were sent to Rhode Island and men as Guards to Rutland." VOL. II.— M 42G TOWN OF UXBRIDGE. Ill January, 1770, the warrant fur town meetini; contained this article : "To see what sum of money the Town will give, or Allow to such Persons as have Procured a man to do a turn for them in the Continental Service for three years or during the War." In April, 1779, two thousand five hundred pounds were appropriated "to carry on the Continental War." At a meeting of the inhabitants of U.xbridge in Juno, 1779, it was voted "that the committee for Ilireing Soldiers for s'd Town be Directed to Engage to Such Soldiers as they may hereafter Procure to Engage in the present war in Consequence of orders Received for that purpose (for the Hire of such Sol- diers) Either Continental Currency, or the produce of the laud Raised amongst us, Acting Dcferentionarily in Engaging either Money or produce, as to the sum of Money, or Quantity of produce and at what price, as they with such soldiers may agree." In August, 1779, Abner Rawson was elected to represent the town of U.xbridge in the convention held at Concord; and it was voted "to unani- movisly adopt the proceedings of the convention held at Worcester on August 13," and a conimitleo was appointed "to carry such resolutions into Execution." In November, 1780, one thousand pounds were raised to sui)i)ly the army with beef; also, in January, 1781, twenty-three thousand pounds were appro- priated for the same pur[)osc ; also, fifteen "hard dollars" were voted to hiring "continental men"; and on Aug. 28, 1781, the town voted to raise one hun- dred and fiftj' pounds, hard money, for the supply of beef called for by the General Court. At the first election of Governor under the Constitution, in 1780, the town of Uxbridge cr.st seventy votes for John Hancock for Governor, thirty-eight votes for Artemas Ward for Lieutenant-Governor, and twenty-eight votes for James Bowdoin, the rival candidate for the office of Lieutenant-Governor. A committee appointed "to estimate, or set the price upon Several Services that have been done by the Continental men in Consequence of the Requisitions of the General Court as well as volunteer services," reported as follows : — " The 8 months service to Roxbury, ..... 2 " " " with Capt. Tyler, 12 " " York, . . . " . 12 " " Canady, 5 " " York, 5 " " Canada & N. Dept 8 " " Nantasket, with Col. Whitney, . 4 " " Dorchester, with Lt. Balden, 2 " " Tarrytown, with Col. T3 ler, 6 weeks service to Providence, .... 3 months service to Bound Brook, with Capt. Read, 4 " " Dorchester, with Capt. Balden, . £14 IG.s. Od. 3 Os. 0(7. 30 Os. Orf. 33 Cs. Orf. IG 13s. 4(1. U Os. Od. It lG,s. Or/. 7 Ss. Od. 6 13.S. 4'/. Os. 0(/. 1 ) O.s. Od. 7 8s. Od. TOPOGRAPHICAL FEATURES. 427 • The 14 dajs service to Proviilence, wilh Lt. Fisli, ... £1 13s. id. 3 months service to Providence, with Ca|)t. Martin, . 4 " '' " Capt. Siblej', . 1 " " upon secret expedition, . G " " to guard stores, .... 3 " " the northward, with Capt. Knap, 3 " " K. I. State, with Col. Tyler, 21 days service to Prov., with Capt. Seagrave, . 6 weeks service to R. I., 10 Os. Od. 13 Cs. 8d. 3 Gs. 8(Z. C Os. Od. 12 Os. Od. 10 Os. Od. 2 '2s. Od. 5 Os. Od." CHAPTER H. TOPOGRAPHY AND PHYSICAL FEATURES — GROWTH AND IMPROVEMENT — ECCLESIASTICAL HISTOKY. TiiE territory of Uxhridge includes abovit twenty-five square miles. The surface is uneven and rugged in some parts, level and arable in others, and possesses its full complement of Avater acreage, meadow, upland, hill and wooded tract. The INIumford River, having its rise in Badluck Pond in Douglas, and ISIanchaug Pond in Sutton, enters Uxbridge on the north, flows in a south-easterly direction, and joins the Blackstone a mile south of Uxbridge Village. The Blackstone River also enters on the north, though further east, and flows southerly. The West River rises in the northern part of Ui)t()n and rims southward through the eastern part of U.\l>ridge, joining the Blackstone below its confluence with the Mumford. On the three streams are the manu- factories that give Uxbridge its wealth and its prominence among the towns of tiie county as a manufacturing borough. The commercial centre of Uxbridge is in the northern part of its territory, on the Mumford River. Early in the present century North Uxbridge and Ironstone, on the south, were the larger villages and were post-stations, while ILxbridgc Village, as the present centre is called, was not. But the opening of the Blackstone Canal in 182iS, the building of two warehouses at this place, and the opening of the Providence and Worcester Railroad in 1846, and the erection of a station-house and depot, caused the lesser to become the greater settlement. The town was little benefited by the canal ; but improvements followed its establishment, and were continued to and revived by the opening of the railway. Fiom that time to the present Uxl)ridge Village, and the town as a whole, has steadily advanced in population, wealth and importance. The main street of Uxbridge Village is a part of the old stage road extending from Worcester to Providence. On it arc the church edifices of the Catholic, Congregational, Unitarian and Methodist societies, the old Academy Building, where district court is held, the high-school building, public library, bank. 428 TOWN OF UXBRIDGE. new towu hall, railway station, stores and the public house — the " Wacuntutk House." On this street also is an old house said to bo the oldest in Uxbridzc, at which George Washington was pleased to stop, and write and dispatcli a message. The desk on which the message was written is in the possession of a present inhabitant, and is highly prized. The town's common abuts on this main thoroughfare ; and facing it and each other arc the Unitarian and Congre- gational churches. East of this village, across the Mumford and between it and the Blackstone and between the Blackstone and the West River beyoml, the land is comparatively level. In this part of the town are farm lands, some of the larger woolen manufactories, and large and handsome residences indica- tive of the wealth and comfort of the inhabitants. With respect to the latter statement, the same is true of.the main and outlying streets. Two miles north of Uxbridge Village is Xorth Uxl)ridgc, the early growth of which was due to its position on the turnpike between Boston and Hartford. The old "Spring Tavern," a vestige of which still remains despite its modern covering, was a famous resort and halting-place in the antc-railwaj' da_ys, and noted for the hospitality of its landlord and the excellence of its purl and Hip. Not far from the "Spring Tavern "is the farm-house of Samuel Taft, where Washington, on his way from Boston to Hartford, soon after his election to the Presidency, stopped and was entertained, and was so pleased with the family [Samuel Taft had twenty-two children] that he wrote the following letter to Mr. Taft : — " Haktford, November 8, 178'J. "Sir, — Being informed that 3-011 have given my name to one of 3-our sons, and called another after Mrs. Wasbiugton's family, and being moreover ver^- mucli pleased with the modest and innocent looks of your two daughters, Patty and PoUj-. I do for these reasons send each of these girls a piece of chintz ; and to Patt3', who bears the name of Mrs. Washington, and who waited more upon us than Polly did, I send live guineas, with which she may bu}- herself any little ornaments she may want, or she ma}' dispose of them in an}* other manner more agreeable to herself. As I do not give these things with a view to have it talked of, or even to its being known, the less there is said about the matter the better you will please me ; but, that I may be sure the chintz and money have got safe to hand, let Patty, who I dare say, is equal to it, write me a line informing me thereof, directed to the President of the United States at New York. I wish 3'ou and j'our family well, and am your humble servant, " Geokoe Washington." Samuel's grandchildren are the present owners and occupiers of the Tafb farm and homestead. In this part of the town is the largest cotton-mill in Uxbridge. The village in its immediate vicinity was called Rogerson's Village, in honor of a former owner of the mill. A store is here, and the Baptist society worship in a hall in this village. The land lying roundabout is devoted to agriculture, and includes many excellent farms. PASTORAL RECORD. 429 In the southern part of the town, about four miles from Uxbridge village, is the village of Ironstone, so called from the fact that formerly the stone in this region yioUled iron in such quantities, that a smelting-fnriiace and foundry were established in the early history of the place. There was also a cotton-inill, and it was succeeded by other manufactures. Ironstone was a post-statiou for several years ; it is accommodated by the New York and New England Railway. During the last century the incorporation of towns was contingent upon the settling of a "gosj^el minister," and hence the establishment of the "standing order," as the Congregational Church was called, received the early attention of the iidiabitants. As already given, the origin of the church in Uxbridge was nearly cotemporary with that of the town. The church edifice was erected, and Nathan Webb ordained pastor, who "continued in the faithful service of the Master," until his death in the sixty-sixth 3'car of his age, on March 17, 1772. By the provisions of his will, dated Jan. 23, 1764, he bequeathed "to the church of Christ in Uxbridge, the sum of sixteen pounds, to be expended in the purchase of three silver cups of equal value, inscribed with the names of Nathan Webb, Ruth Webb, and Elizabeth Webb." The will also gave the church £26 13s. 4c?., "to be invested and to be improved forever after towards the support of a learned, orthodox, and i)ious Congregational ministry in said church." Hczckiali Chapman was ordained as ^Ir. Webb's successor in 1774, and remained until April 5, 1781. He was followed by Josiah Spalding, who was ordained on Sept. 11, 1782, and dismissed on Oct. 23, 1787. Samuel Judson, father of Willard Judson, was ordained on Oct. 18, 1792, and remained until his death on Nov. 11, 1832. On Sept. 23, 1831, at a meeting of the church, it was voted to call David A. Grosvenor as iMr. Judson's colleague. On February 7 of the next 3ear, at a meeting held at the pastor's house, the society refused to concur with the church in calling Mr. Grosvenor, and a resolution was adopted to the effect that the members who were in fivor of calling Mr. Grosvenor should withdraw from the old society and unite with the Evangelical Society recently organized, " in order to maintain the worship and ordinances of the gospel according to the established principles and usages of the Orthodox Congregational churches in this Commonwealth." Accordingly Mr. Grosvenor's adherents withdrew from the old society, and assumed the name of the "First Evangelical Congregational Church and Society in lJxl)ridge," and the mother church then or afterwards was known as the "First Congiegational Church and Society in Uxbridge." The new society ordained Mr. Grosvenor on June 6, 1832. He was dismissed on June 1.5, 1842. On Dec. 28, 1842, John Orcutt was ordained, and on May 1, 1849, dis- missed. In January, 1844, a committee of ten was appointed, to unite with the committees chosen by the Baptist and Unitarian societies, to visit every family in town, for the purpose of supplying the destitute with copies of the Bible. In February, 1845, resolutions were adopted by the church and society 430 TOWN OF UXBRIDGE. protesting against "human slavery, as a violation of human rights and of the spirit of the gospel, antl as a system which the church coukl not countcnanco with impunity, ileclaring the church cannot fellowship Christians who support it, anil disavowing any S3'mpathy with those professed friends of the slave who deal in harsh denunciations against the church and ministry, and are seeking to abolish slavery at the cost of our civil and religious institutions." On April 3, 1850, J. J. Ahbott was installed pastor, and dismissed on Oct. 30, 1862. On Dec. 15, J. B. Johnson was installed, and dismissed on Jan. 21, 18G8. T. C. Biscoe was installed on Dec. 2, 18GS, and dismissed in 187.5, on July 1st. The present pastor, William II. Cobb, was installed on Sept. 18, 1878. The whole number of members is 995 ; the present number, 141. The first pastor of the Unitarian society, after the formation of the Evan- gelical Church, was Samuel Clarke, who was ordained on Jan. 9, 1833, and remained until his death, in November, 1850. His successor was Charles T. Canfiekl, ordained in the fall of 1860, and dismissed in April, 1862. R. D. Burr became pastor in 1862, and was dismissed in 1868. S. R. Priest was installed on Jan. 19, 1869, and served the society until Jan. 1, 1871. Janus T. Lusk was the next pastor, and was dismissed in Jul}-, 1875 ; and in the fall of the same j'car George Brcmner, the present pastor, was ordained. This society was incorporated in 1797, and in 1834 the present church edifice w.is built. In the southern part of the town, near a place called Ironstone, is the "Old Quaker Meeting-house." This building is of brick, and was erected in 177il, as the following from old records shows: — "In the 4th month 1770 the Smithfield monthly meeting ordered a meeting house to be built a little south- erly of Moses F. Farnum's, by the side of the Great Road. In the 4th montli the house was built thirty-five feet long and thirty feet broad. During the 5i!i month, 1771, Adam Ilarkness, William Bufl'um and David Stcere 'do Report yt they find the whole cost of building the Brick meeting h.iuse to amount to £206 8.S'. Id.'" The house has been in use to the present time. Its walls show no sign of decay, and the roof, with no ornamental jets, appears as it did one hundred and eight years ago. The sashes contain the same small panes, and the same doors swing as formerly on leather hinges. In 1812, on June 22, the North Uxbridge Baptist Church was organized at Rogerson's Village, when and where a council met, "to constitute a church, and ordain Austin Robbins." The Baptist churches of Sutton, Worcester, Woonsocket, R. I., and Thompson, Conn., were represented i)y pastors or laymen. The number of members at organization was twenty. The present membership is about one hundred. No house of worship has been erected ; services have been, and are, held in a hall in Rogerson's Village. Austin Robbins was the first pastor, and was followed by Joseph Tillinghast; and ho by James W. Russell, ordained on Nov. 4, 1854, and dismissed in May, 1865 ; Joseph Barber, settled on March 15, 1865, dismissed on Dee. 4, 1868; J. W. MILLS AND MANUFACTURES. 431 Dick, settled in M:iy, 18G9, distnisscd on Aug. 4, 1871 ; J. A. Tilton, settled on Feb. 2, 1872, dismissed ou Sept. 30, 1877 ; B. IL Lauc, llie present pastor, was settled on Oct. 1, 1877. Joseph Smitli and Job B. Boomer served this society at difTercnt times. The Roman Catholic Church in Uxbridge had its origin in the year 18.50, when the first mass was celebrated in Taf'l's Ilall by Rev. Mv. ^IcGrath. Other celebrants were, afterward, — Daniel Maloney, John Boyce, of St. John's Church in Worcester, and Charles O. Reily of Blackstone. E. J. Shcrridan of Roxbury became the first resident pastor in 1852; and in October of the same year the present church edifice was erected. E. J. Sherridan remained pastor of the church till June, 18G7, when he was succeeded by Dennis O'Keefe, who served till May, 1868. He was followed by Dennis C. Moran, who occupied the pastoral office until July, 1871, and was succeeded by Henry Robiuson, the present pastor. James Boyle was appointed curate in 187G, and was succeeded in 1878 by John T. Madden, the present curate. St. Mary's "Chapel of Ease" was established by this parish, at WhitinsvilJe, in the town of Northbridge, in 1871. The membership of l)oth church and chapel is about two thousand. The Methodist Episcopal Church in Uxbridge originated in a mission, estal)- lished in September, 1874, when William Merrill, a preacher of the Metho- dist church, conducted services in Taft's Hall. He remained until Feb. 7, 1875, when he was succeeded by Frank T. Pomeroy, who served until April, 1877. During bis administration, the congregation was increased to one hundred and fifty. The mission was organized as a church with eight mem- bers on Dec. 10, 1875, by William Hascall, D. D., presiding elder. John W. Collier was pastor from June 19, 1877, to June of the following year, wlicn J. H. Thompson, the present pastor, was appointed by conference ; previously, the appointments had been made by the presiding elder. The present mem- bership is about sixty. On March 8, 1878, a lot was secured on which to erect a house of worship, the building of which began in 1879, and was com- l)letcd iu the same year, at a cost of five thousand dollars. The site of the church is a part of the old burying-yard. CHAPTER HI. MILLS AND MANUFACTURING — EDUCATIONAL INTERESTS — LOCAL INSTITUTION'S — THE AVAR OF THE REBELLION. The leading industry of Uxbridge is the manufacture of textile fabrics. The water-privileges afforded by the three rivers were early improved. As early as 1790, ou the Mumford River, near the meeting-house, "there were 432 TOWN OF UXBRIDGE. several sorts of mills and water-works in excellent order, where much business was well performed." In 1810, Daniel Day built, near the West River, a mill and put in a carding-machine and picker for tiie pur[)ose of carding rolls f(jr home manufacture. In the spring of 1811, the mill was eidarged and a billy and jenny added. In Scptcnil)er of the same year, a hand-loom was put in, and during the year 1812 four more looms were added. The same kind of picker was used then as at the present time. It was operated by a picker- siring attached to a picker-stick, held in the hand of the operator while the harnesses were worked by the feet of the weaver. This was the tirst woolen- mill in Uxbridgc. Joseph Day and Jerry Wheelock were associated with Daniel Day. In 1825, this mill was enlarged, a canal built to it from the West liiver, power-looms added, and operated by Joseph Day; was burnt in 1844; rot>uiit soon after, and in 18.")') sold to Samuel W. Scott; burnt again in 1878 and immediately rebuilt. The present firm-name is J. R. Scott & Co. The ni'll contains throe sets of machinery ; forty-two operatives are employed, and forty thousand yards of satinets are made per mouth. In 1810, Ebenczcr Clapp erected a small mill in North Uxbridge, on the Mumford River, west of the present granite mill. In 1817, Robert Rogei'son became owner, raised the dam and built the west mill in 1823, and the east mill in 1827. Tiie greater part of the village — now called Rogerson's Village — was built and extensive improvements made. Rogcrson failed in 1837, and the property passed into the ijosscssion of his creditors, who were incorporated in 1812 as the "Uxbridge Cotton Mills." In 18.30, this property was sold to the AVhitins, who united the mills. James F. Whitin is now owner and operator. This mill is equipped with improved machinery, and has no superior in this country. The grounds near it are laid out with much taste. The main building is three hundred feet in length ; the product am )unt3 to nearly two million yards per year of cotton sheetings. The number of operatives is one liundrcd and seventy-five, and the number of spindles is ten thousand. In the western part of North Uxbridge is a privilege on a small stream called Rivulet, and the mill is known by the same name. In 1814, operations were begun at this place, a mill built, and a company or corporation formed to manufacture satinets, broadcloth, and cassimeres, with one set of machinery. This company was incorporated in ISIG, and consisted of Daniel Carpenter, I'phraim Spring, Samuel Road, Aljjheus Baylies, Samuel Judson, Jerry Wheelock, and Joseph II. Perry. In 1824 this company had no existence, and in 1832 its afTairs were at an end. Ali)lieus Baylies operated ^he mill for two or three years after 182.3, and then failed. Between 1830 and 18(10, the mill was used for a carriage manufactory, and other works of minor importance. In 1868, Southwick & Sayles bought the property and supplied woolen machinery, and rented it for the manufacture of knitting yarn ; burnt in 1871 ; rebuilt soon after and furnished with cotton machinery for making warps. In 1872, four sets of woolen machinery were substituted. Southwick sold his interest to C. A. >*; S. JI- WIlKIiLlKK'.-. MILI,, IXllK i:, MASS. .■BUVLKT MILL," IXmUDOK, MASS.. SAVLES * TAKT, .•UO.-UIKTO.<«. WOOLEN FACTORIES. 433 Ziidok A. Taft, and the present firm-name is S lyles, Taft & Co. Forty-6ve operatives are employed, and tliirty tliousaiid yards of satinets made per mont'.i. In 1814 a small mill was bniit at Ironstone by William Arnold and others, and used for a cotton-mill ; burnt in 182'? ; rel)uilt in 1832 and used for tlic niaiuifac'ture of satinets; burnt in I8()2 : rebuilt in 187G, and now operated as a shoddy-mill. In 1821, oil the Mumford River, near the present centre of the town, was built the Capron Mill. It was used for the manufacture of satinets, and con- tained cnouffh cotton machinery to make warps. The first power-looms in Uxbridge, and the first satinet power-looms in America, were used in this iniil. The Capron Mill Company failed in 1829. In 183G the mill was enlarged, more machinery added, and has always been a satinet-mill. The property is owned I)y the heirs of J. & W. Capron, and operated l)y Capron & Ilayward ; contains five sets of woolen machinery and enough cotton machinery to make the war|)s used in the mill ; eighty-five operatives are employed, and forty-five thousand yards of satinets produced per month. In the eastern part of the town, one mile from the centre, is the Wacantuck Mill on the West River. The dam was built in 1824, and the mill erected during the following year by Luke Taft; burnt in 1837 and rebuilt in 1838. In 184(), C. .\. &S. M. Wheelock, the present owners and operators, came into possession of (he property and manufiactured satinets, tweeds, yarns and flauncl ; since 1855, cassimcrcs, of which latter one hundred and sixty thousand yards are made a 3*ear. The mill contains five sets of machiner}-, and gives cniplo\-ment to seventy-five operatives. South-east of the centre of the town is the Uxbridge Woolen Mill. This mill and village are on the Blackstone. The dam was built in 1824, and the mill- structure in 1825. The manufacture of cassimcrcs was begun in the fall of 182G ; the mill was burnt in August, 1828, and immediately rebuilt. Soon after this time the making of satinets was in i)rf)grcss and continued till 1844. The mill was owned and operated by an incorporated company, consisting of Amariah Chapin, Royal Chapin, George AVillard, John Taft and Oi'samus Taft, the first American weaver of satinets in thiscountiy. In 1840, M.D. F. Steereand Josiah Seagraves were in possession. In 1850, the mill was enlarged to accommodate twelve sets of machinery; burnt again in 1852, and rebuilt during the follow- ing year. In the spring of 1858 Stcerc disposed of his interest, and Seagraves failed. In 1860, the raortg.igees sold to W. D. Davis of Providence. IIo sold to R. & J. Taft, who made extensive repairs. In 1870, W. D. Davis was again proprietor. The firm-name is now W. D. Davis & Co. One hundred and thirty operatives are employed ; the mill contains twelve sets of machinery, and produces twenty-eight thousand yards of fancy cassimeres per monlli. This is the largest woolen-mill in Uxbridge. The "Central Mill," so called, caat at the toj) of the fortification, voeiferating "All's well! All's well!" This artitiee hatHed the design of the Indians, and a hasty retreat followed. In some narratives it is told that an Indian Mas killed hy an unerring shot from her gnn. A petty (ril)e of Indians had their wigwams about twenty rods south of tlio town farm-house. The site of the Sagamore's lodge, well rememl)ired liy William P. Cowec, was on a flat trending towards the swamp. 'I'he Indian village as well as their bnrial-ground was sheltered I)y the hills that gave them game; their salmon-fishery was in the Nenameseck (a fishing basket), or the Ware River. The portion of land north of the Qnaboag ( in some deeds spelled Scbobouge), extending to the Ware River, was cidled Wombenesisecf)i>k, and bought of the sachem, Anogomok, James and Simon, sons and heirs of Black James, sachem of the Nipmuck countiy. Thongh many years have elapsed since the Indian has disappeared from the Cowec and other fields in town, yet the plowshare, within a short time, has upturned their durable memorials of laborious ingemiity, in tho shape of stone arrows and spear-heads, l)uried with the warriors who had gone to the hunting- grounds of tho Great Spirit. Their chiefs were usually buried in a sitting posture, with tho face toward the rising sun. The corn was planted with an apoh)gy for a hoe, which was a large clam- shell or the scapula (shoulder-blade) of the deer, tied on a round stick of wood. Their strings were tho tendons of animals or fil)res of various plants. In each bill of corn a fish was placed for fertilization. The four saplings to which the mother-squaw tied the lai-ge bearskin ami therein placed her bead-eyed pappoose, lashed to a daintily-fashioned liirch- bark, with the soft breeze of summer gently swaying the aerial cradle, became trees, and now have yielded to the woodman's axe. The scooped-out rock and stone pestle are left to tell us of their coarse, simple faro — samp or homiuy, also succotash, with their wild meats and fish. On Marks Motmtain is a crumbling, rudo stone fire-placs, where the Indians cooked tho fish caught in the rapid river at its base. The many hills, with the purling brooklets in the ravines, were a forest park for tho gazcllo-eycd fawn and the"antlered monarch of the chase." Urnin, too, had his haunts and lair among the shelving rocks. As late as 1834 a i)sar sfra^'cd from the northern wilds, and peacefully ate his chestiuits while l)cl)bv Barnes filled her basket on the opposite side of the tree. But it was his last meal. The Nimrods, both old and young, pursued and killed him on Jimmy's Hill, within the limits of Palmer. In the dead jiast, a stalwart Indian would come to the red man's I)uiial- ground, and bending over a jiyramid of undistuibed stones, that proI)ai)ly marked an ancestor's grave, for a time would seem entranced in prayer, then sorrowfully turn from the mound and retrace his steps to the blue waters that gave him fish and oysters. NATURAL FEATURES. 439 Can we wonder that the Nipmuck braves became the allies of the able King Philip of jNIount Hope, whose eagle eye saw in the march of the "pale-face" the abantlonnicnt of cherished hunting-grounds, the obliteration of the wigwam home, and the extinction of his race? Western (Warren) was incorporated Januar}', 1741. The pai-allcl of 42° 10' north, and meridian of 72° 10' west, intersect at the soutli-caslcrly portion of Bear-Knoll range, and due west of the old, old homestead of Lieut. Hodges. Few towns in Worcester County surj)ass it in varied scenery. Views of rare loveliness, gems of rural beauty, meet the pleasure-seeker in the many drives. From Bear-Knoll and Long Hill, Colonel's Mountain and Coy's Ilill, the prospect extends far and wide. From the summit of the latter, Graylock, the highest land ill the State, is seen; Monadnock, in Nev/ IIamp>hire ; Grace, in Warwick; Wachusett, in Princeton. The knol)s of the Holyokc range, the intervening valleys, the silvery sheen of streams and ponds, the dark outlines of belts of timber, the hills dotted here and there with villages, till the raptured gaze with delight. The view from the discontinued road that hugged the side of Cedar Hill, west of the Blair-Foskit house, in West Warren, is highly picturesque, not exceeded by some of the noted gaps or passes in the Blue Ridge. Here, at a glance, may be seen nature in a wild mood, supplemented with man's skill. The Quaboag River passes through the narrow gorge, rushing, dashing, roaring over the rocky bed ; on the left bank, the puffing iron horse of the Boston and Albany Railroad, with its long train of merchandise or palace cars instinct with life, winds gracefidly around the curve at the base of Graton's Crag. The opening of the valley bcycmd, with the sloping hills, their wood-crowned summits in the haze of blue, lend weird beauty to this rare landscape. On the grass-grown road northerly of the pound is a charming view of a New England village nestled amid her hills. The valley is narrow, and the hillsides and summits are studded with buildings both neat and tasteful. On the river banks and Wigwam Brook are located the varied industries. The many trains of the Boston and Albany road wind around the hills, disappear in the cuts, then emerge upon embaidcments, cross and re-cross the stream six times within four miles, then dash onward through the meadows, an object of untiring attraction, carrying "The wcaltli and the lord of cartb, Tlif OF WARREN. Many of the old roads over the hills have given place to those in the valleys. Historic "Reed Street" is still used. This elevated road, in hygone years, was a thoroughfare from Boston to the Hudson and Delaware. By the road- side is an old milc-stoue, where the weary traveller could read the distance from Boston. May the Reeds guard this antiquated stone from vandal hands, and let it stand as a monument of the ability and patriotism of thi'ir ancestors. A detachment from Gen. Bnrgoyne's army, after the defeat near Saratoga, marched through this street to the Foster Place, — the site of which is marked by some Lombardy poplars, — up the hill, around "Devil's Elbow" to the famed Culler tavern stand (T. F. Cutler's residence), down the sand-hill, across the low-lands, the causeway, now submerged by Comins's reservoir, up the steep hill near P. Flannery's to J. B. Gould's and A. A. Burbank's, from thence to "West Brookticid and onward to Boston. The night they built their camp- lire in town one of the privates did not answer the roll-call after the reveille ; he lived and died in this vicinity. Gen. George AVashiugton, in going to take command of the Continental Army at Cambridge, passed over this route, halted under an elm near the Keycs-Gould House, and " drank from the bucket that hung in the well." Not half a decade of \'ears since, underneath this grandly venerable elm, with the harvest-moon shedding its mellow ra3's over autumu-tintod leaves, stood a sweet singer and pledged her plighted troth. This elm was planted by Col. Keyes, 1750. The old, old route for the early settlers was from the Baldwin Bridge, south of West Brookticid depot, to Matthew Patrick's (now W. A. Patrick's), to the Gershom Makepeace (yellow) House, with its sentinel-like poplars, past tho largo bowlder incorporated with a stone wall, back of Noah Ashley's (A. A. P)urbank's), below the hill near Solomon Keyes' (Mrs. A. Bridges), thence to Daniel Blair's, down the hill to the Damon-Bemis house, acros-* Tufts Brook, n|) Breakneck Hill to Isaac Glcason's (David Bcmis), onward to Isaac Bliss' (S. II. Bliss), from here north of Hubbard Hill and "Steerage Rock " in Brimlield, to King's Crossing (the bridge over the Quaboag), and onward to Fellows' tavern. This is probably the Indian trail of the Agawams, Woronoaks,* and other small tribes on the Quouehti-cut (the long, tidal river; the Connecticut is f)ur hundred miles long), who came to the powerful Nipmtick or Nipnet tribe If) pay tribute or pass through their wide domains. The old b.ay-path or road crossed the Quaboag at Brookticid, following somewhat the course of this riv.'r and Chiecuppee to Indian Orchard, thence to Agawam. Through this "howl- ing" wilderness Mr. Win. Pynchon and his small band of brave pioneers marched to found the now beautiful city of S|)ringlield. This town has an area of about 1,700 acres, with a diversity of soil. From " Graylook was amoug tlic liist, aud a noted chief of tlio Woronoaks. Tlio high peak in the north-western part of the State is named from this war-chief of prowess. OLD-TIME DOINGS. 441 the Cutler Bridge in the upper village u stratum of sand, with slight modifica- tions, extends to Long Island Sound. The local name of the southerly |)ortion of this tract in Warren is indicative of the i)ovcrty of flie soil. It is said that the islet near the Cutler Bridge was formed by a land-slide from this sand- hill. Coy's Hill is one of great fertility; hut few tracts of land of equal extent, between the Holyokc range and the seacoast, suqjass it. The grasses are highly nutritious ; the pastures abound with a variety rcseml)ling the blue grass of Kentucky ; this, with the limpid water of the springs and brooks, gives these fields notoriety among herdsmen. Other parts of the town have good soil and are well adapted to grazing and fruit-culture. The underlying rock is composed of quartz, feldspar and mica, with iron (ferruginous gneiss). lolite and adularia are found near Brimfield. The town abounds iu durable building-stone. Iron-ore was formerly dug in ditferent parts of the town. A clay-pit was worked near the Cutler Bridge. Opposite Graton's Crag (just within the limits of Palmer) is the Hodges Pool. The water of this mineral spring bears a close resemblance, chemically, to the chalybeate wells of Saratoga. This town is well watered. Quaboag River is the outlet of Quaboag Pond or Lakelet. It flows sluggishly through the meadows, with a fall of only four feet ; when contracted by the AVarren hills its velocity is increased. It is esti- mated that between the Cutler Bridge and West Brimfield the fall averages nearly fort}' feet to the mile, thus afl'ording many fine water-privileges. The brooks are liut little utilized. Bear Knoll range forms a water-shed, the most marked in town. The water of its rills and brooklets makes two courses to Long Island Sound, — on the southerly side, through the Quinebaug and Thames rivers ; on the northerly side, through the Quaboag and Couuecticut rivers. CHAPTER II. EARLY SETTLERS AND DOINGS MINISTERS AND CIIURCnES EDUCATION COLONIAL WARS REVOLUTIONARY MOVEMENTS INSURRECTION OF SIIAYS LATER PASTORS — LOCAL IMPROVEMENTS. The love of country, of childhood home, is deeply engraven on memory's tablet. While national achievements ought to bo gratefully remembered, it is equiiliy just that the history of our ancestors be not buried iu the sands of time. The pen is inadequate to portray to those, now actors in life's drama, the toil of the early settlers to subdue the unbroken wilderness; the an.xicty for the safety of the few domestic animals from the beasts of prey, and the uure- 442 TOWN OF WARREN. niitting vigilance for tlicir wily foe. Tiie fortitude, under personal privations incident, to remote frontier life, sliows a siil)liinc trust in God's abounding love and tender cure. A tract of land, in 1727, was conveyed to Capt. Joseph Kellogir, "for ser- vices as inteipreter to the Western Indians, many years past, and fn- several public employments. Praying that tlio court would consider the same and make him some allowance in their great bounty and goodness." The laud is thus described : — " A plait of 200 acres of land, laid out to Capt. Joseph Kellogg of Fort Dummer,* by virtue of a arrant made liim by the Great and General Assembly at their session in the year of 1727. Beginning at a Small red oak tree marked K, standing upon the Ijuc on the west side of BrookQeld Township across the road from Hadley to Boston, and north 143 rods to a white oak tree, west 184 rods to Col. P3-nchon's line & 200 rods from tbcnee, to the first described bound. " Surveyed bj' the needle of Instrument & protracted by a scale of 38 perch to an inch. " Per TiMOTiiT DwiGHT Surveyor under oatli. " Capt. Thomas Baker & Edward Smitli cbainmen for the within survey of the within farm of land, made Solerau oath to the true performance of said service. " Joseph Jennings Just. Peace." This was a part of the White farm, also a part of the laud on Coy's Hill, owned by Capt. Chester Powers. The road, or bridle-path, from Poslon to Iladiey, was to Marlliorough, then to Brooklield, — the nearest settlement west, — over the Bowman Stone Hill, down the Coney Hill through the fjrest, past the Babcock Tavern to a cam|)- ing-ground, — Cold Spring, now in Celchcrtown, — thence, guided by blazed trees, through the wilderness to H idley Meadows. The first town meeting, after the incorporation of Western (Warren), was held March 8, 1741. Noah Ashley was chosen moderator. The other oflScers were Matthew Beal, Peter Rice, Solomon Ke^'cs, Nathaniel Reed, and Benjamin Davis. November, 1742, Gershom i\I;dcepeace, Peter Rice, and David I'lair were chosen to buy one acre of land of Solomon Keyes, on Comc^-'s Hill (cast and near Patrick Flannery's), for the site of the town meeting-house. May, 1743, Noah Ashley, Nathaniel Reed, Solomon Keyes, and James Whitcomb were chosen a committee for building the town meeting-house, " to be 45x35 feet, and 20 ft. 6 inches from sill to plate." September, 1743, "Voted to raise by tax on land, one hundred pounds, old tenor, for preaching now to come ; also, voted forty pounds old tenor for schooling." * This fort was built on tbo Connocticut Kivcr, luirlli of tbo State lino, by Cai>t. Kellogg; it ■waa gaiTisoncd by Capt. Timothy Dwigbt aud fifty-five meu. EARLY TOWN ACTION. 443 July 9, 1744, a town meeting was called, "to sec if the town would agree to keep a day of fasting and prayer to God, for direction in calling a .suital)le i)er- son to the work of the ministry. Voted to keep Thursday, July 19th, as a da}' of fasting and prayer." Fasting then was not a mere form, hut the absti- nence, of those in health, from food, from " the rising of the sun, to the going down thereof." The Puritan and rilgrini Fathers had "faith in a personal God," to whom were referred their duties, not only spiritual but temporal, in founding a home for themselves and their ciiiidren. They taught a higher law than, we fear, now generally rules the actions of men. They luul not one code of laws for the Sabbath and another code of morals for business. Uni)ending integrity between man and man gave strength to the Puritan and a noble copy for the sons of to-day. The first preacher, after the incorjioration of "Western, was Kev. Thomas Strong. The first recorded solemnized marriage was of Josiah Putnam to Lydia Wheeler, Jan. 15, 1740-41 ; first recorded birth, Martin, born Feb. 26, 1741, son of Benj. and Hannah Brooks; first church sexton, John Barrows; first physician. Dr. Obadiah Wood. The first settled minister was Eev. Isaac Jones, who remained with his increasing flock nearly forty years, when the Good Shepheid received him into his fold. Februar}', 1744. " Voted to hire two months' schooling." The school follow- ing so closely the preaching of the gospel, illustrates the early settlers' devotion to religion and to education, that moral and mental culture should go hand in hand. Willi the echoes of the pioneer's axe daily went up the breathings of the soul's desire to the Father in heaven. The Bible was their chart of life; Christ the beacon-light that guided them to the haven of eternal rest. Novcmiier, 1745. "Voted to build a school-house '20 b}' 17 feet, having a Dutch cbimnc}' at each end." This house was on the old, old road between J. B. Gould's and A. A. Burbank's. "Voted to pay eight pounds for boarding the schoolmaster eight weeks." 1745. "Voted to raise fifty pounds, old tenor, for powder, lead and flints." At this time occurred King George's war, which involved the Colonial possessions in America. The French had almost an impregnable fortress at Lonisbnrg (Isle of Capo Breton), where privateers were fitted out, that preyed on the coasting vessels of New England. Gen. William PcppcrcU, with a force, mostly New England troops, aided by the English fleet under Sir Peter War- ren, cai)turcd this stronghold. The "Old French War," which was begun in 1753, lasted more than eight years. Troops were often called for by the Provincial governors. Capt. Solomon Keyes, who had years before fought in the Indian warfare at Lovcdl's Pond, in Fryeburg, Me., again shouldered his gun, taking with him his son Solomon. They went to Lake George, in New York, 1755. Capt. Keyes was killed in battle, and his son mortally wounded. John Dearborn's largo 444 TOWN OF WARREN. powder-horn, corresponding in size witli the flint-lock gun, is all that is left to tell his service in this war. Other soldiers went to Canada, as their polls were abated one year. Time and the i)lowshare have removed all vestige of the French f.nt that stood in the Jocelyn-Powers lot, next to the Rich field. It commanded an unobstructed view of Brookfield Plain. This was a part of the line of defence erected to protect the western and northern settlements of New England against French and Indian hostilities. Jan. 3, 1757. "Voted to repay Capt. Thomas Cutler for moneys paid to the Provincial treasurer for the soldiers' rates." In n!)'.)-C)0 Lord Amherst, commander of the Colonial forces, in marching to Crown Point, from thence to Quebec, to join Gon. Wolfe, encamped a night on the ticld near " Devil's Ell)ow" with ten thousand men. In 17G2 the small-pox raged in town. One of the recorded deaths and burials is that of Henry White. The curtain now drops upon Colonial events and allegiance to the English crown. It again rises to present new scenes in the important drama of Amer- ican history. England, by her wars, was deeply in debt. It was affirmed that Parliament possessed the inherent right to tax the Colonies without representa- tion. There were the sugar, tea, stamp and other acts. On account of the unjust taxation, covenants were signed by the people not to buy articles of British manufacture or East India goods. "The lamps of industry and econoiuy were lighted."' Families that had worn silk and broad- cloth now dressed in iiomespun woolen and the products of flax. The luxuiics Avere only those produced in America. After the noted tea-parly in I>osto:i Harbor in 1773, the few that had the fragrant herb hidden in their caddies watched the windows, fearing detection from a neighborly call, and the teapot was closely covered while making the delicious decoction. January, 1774, the town of Western (Warren) adopted the following reso- lution : — "Loyalty and true .illegianee to His Majesty, King George the Third, we heartily and Sincerely profess, and will yield a cheerful and ready obedience to ail jusl laws ; and a hearty friendshi|) with our mother Country we wish may be eonliniU'il ; Ltut our just rights and privileges for which our forefathers endured the greatest haidshii)S, and sacrificed their lives, we cannot give up and submit to be Slaves." Distrust of the government over them, and the dissatisfaction with the taxes imposed, led the people to take measures condurivc to the public weal. The political sky at this time was at least nebulous. September, 1773. " V'olcd bt raise a number of men to meet and bo instructed in the military science (,f using fire-arms ; also, to procure the enlistment of these ' minnlo ' men. liy order of Col. Danforth Keyes, these men were pairif Nebraska to Kansas, with ox and mule teams. Next it was necessary to get flour ; also to send letters to Chicago, Gov. Sal- mon P. Chase, Senator Charles Sumner and others. A lad}' of the company was asked to make the attempt, from her familiarity with Southern phrases, for to be known jou were from Massachusetts, as had been two messengers who left the week before, was death. To reach alone a St. Louis steamer through the Shawnee Reserve, was more hazardous than the northern route ; both were full of peril. To the '" watchful C3C that never sleeps," and the fidelity of the three drivers of the LTnited States mail ; in particidar, the risks run by the youthful Missourian who drove through \\^cslport, — this lady is indebted for her life. On her return to Warren, the people were loth to believe that the mntterings of the Great Relteilion were already sweeping over liie virgin soil of Kansas. The tidings of the attack upon Foit Sumter in Charleston harbor reached New England April, 18G1. Who has forgotten the intense thrill that ran through 452 TOWN OF WARREN. every lover of the Union at the Nortli, as the telegraph transmitleJ the dire message ; and the great amazement to not a few, who had thought that the Soiilh would never proceed to extremities? When the alternative was forced on the government, war or final dismemhcrment of the South from the North, many then thought that three months' service was all that need he provided f )r, that (he presence of the northern army would intimidate the rehcllious, misled Southron. But what was the true condition? Instead of brothers who had l)ccn nurtured and protected by the same foster-mother, — the Union, — were found an unre- lenting, ])ersistent foe. War meetings were called. In the sons were kindled the fires that once burned in the hearts of their Revolutionary ancestors. The Tories of those da^s were duplicated in these hours of trial. In May, ISGl, Albert W. Powers (afterwards captain) was the first to enlist for three years, if needed that length of time ; and others wrote their names the same evening. These enlisted men joined the 2d Massachusetts regiment of volunteers. Before August others joined the 2d, the 10th, the l.")th and the 21st regiments. Dr. Calvin Cutter was surgeon of the 21st regiment ; afterwards on Gen. Reno's staff and a brigade-surgeon in the Ninth Army Corps. In June, 1862, Dr. J. W. Hastings became assistant-surgeon of the same regiment. He was transferred in May, 1SG3, to the 33d regiment Massachu- setts volunteers to become the surgeon, and was in the " march of Gen. W. T. Sherman to the sea." Scrg't Charles Plummcr Tidd, one of the few of John Brown's men who escaped from Harpei's Ferry over the Alleghany Mountains, for whose arrest Gov. Wise of Virginia offered one thousand dollars, came to Warren, resided and enlisted with his Kansas captain (Dr. Cutter) in the 21st regiment Massachusetts volunteers. lie died on the eve of the battle of Roanoke, his dirge the cannon's roar, his requiem the battle strife. This intrepid soldier braved danger and obloquy to aid in breaking the bonds of three millions of God's children. Did space permit, each and all who enlisted from Warren, when the defiant Southron attempted to drive the eagle from its northern eyrie, siiould have mention of gallantry displayed in the many hard-fought battles from Gettys- burg to the Gulf, from the Red River of the South to the shore wave-washed l)y the Atlantic. The toil and hardships endured on the march and in camp, the suflering in hospitals, the fortitude of those who came home to linger, to die, are not forgotten. May the memory of Cutler, Bemis, Ilarfnett and Wiswall be kept green by their surviving comrades. These brave young men jicldcd up life from noxious filth and starvation in the Andcrsonville stockade. Those that sleep in the soldier's grave far, far away, are missed and mourned at home. A silent tear to the memory of one who sleeps where the magnolia blooms, and overhang- ing vines bend down and kiss her lonely grave.* * Carrie E., daughter of Surgeon C. Cutter. REBELLION RECORD. 453 2\^ames of Enlisted Men from Warren in the Rebellion. — A. W. Powers (captain), Owen Tiffany, Alfred Stephens, Cliauncj- Peck (killed near Manchester, Va.), Philo Peck (Uilled at Gettysburg, Pa.), Wm. Cowles (lost on the "Juniata"), G. II. Crouch, Roswell Stone (died from wounds), A. A Marsh, Ephraim Carey, Dan'l Carr, Isaac Gilbert, Ira Thompson, Chas. S. Chapin, M. Walsh, O. E. Nelson, Horatio Tower, Albert Peck, O. Rumrell, Calvin Cutter (surgeon). J. W. Hastings (surgeon), A. Wil- son, E. J. Wright, Chas. Berais (died at Anderwnville), Dan'l Bliss, Chas. H. Bliss, A. R. Caswell, II. B. Stone, J. C. Brooks, E. C. Morgan, J. C. Griggs, J. P. Johnson, Chas. Durant, A. Taft, F. II. Moore, J. Ilarvey, J. McCuUough, C. S. Robinson, G. W. Nichols, J. C. Marshall, J. S. Tidd, W. Bliss. E. Cole, Jr., A. Walker, S. Dunham, E. IT. S. Wilson, W. II. Shepard, T. Bryant, Giles Blodgett, Albert Bliss, A. D. Bond, C. F. Bosworth, E. II. Culler, E. Ryecroft, G. 11. Shepard, J. W. Shepard, — Lovegrove, Chas. Jvhnson, D. Bhmding, D. Brownell, C. E. Damon, J. Shaw, L. AVright, II. Merriam, Amos Bliss, G. II. Jennings, C. Chickering, W. P. Butterworth, A. L. Switzcr, P. Burk. W. Sibley, E. P. Hale, W. H. Washburn, W. W. Cummings, S. ri. Lincoln, W. M. Fay, L. Gilbert, J. W. Wiswall (at Salisbury prison), A. Aldrich (at Salisbury prison), T. Dodge, W. Foley, L. Gravelle, E. May, James O'Neil, John O'Nenl, F. Sherman, W. C. Hitchcock, A. A. Brooks, N. C. Burbank, C. II. Grossman, P. Ward, Mcintosh, II. Ball, W. Smith, E. Sullivan. C. F. Cutler (at Andersonville), * C. II. Barrett, * O. J. Carroll, * W. Carter, * A. Bonney, * C. Burns, * A. Packard, S. W. Cook, *J. Mahouey, M. Wadkins, * E. Smifh, 6. Marsh, Geo. Bliss, C. B. Ilarback, Strickland, Ilartnett (at Andersonville), Butler, G. Ellis, Nevens, Wood, L. Gilbert, Marsh, Brooks, A. E. Esau, G. T. Lincoln, Woodworlh, M. Bliss, R. Harris, Gilbert, Benwaj'. Boots and shoes in different styles have been manufactnred since 1855- New shops and new firms h;ive arisen, and steadily more capital has beei> invested, until it lias become one of the leading industries. Messrs. Tripp & llasclwood, W. B. Ramsdoll, and C. Moore are the present manufactnrcrs. The Moore Excelsior Ink began to be manufoctnrcd in 18(18. The manufac- ture of laundry blueing was added to this enterprise in 1865. At Quaboag village is the shoddy-mill of Mr. Kceny. The Dean grist-mill is venerable with ago; its first lease extended uincty- ninc years. The J. B. Gould mill, if measured by the mile-stones of life, would exceed a hundred years. The upper and nether millstones have ground on, while several owners have passed the pearly gate. An extensive grain business is done at (his mill. The Moore grist-mill, in the lower village (now removed), for many years was the leading mill in this immediate vicinity. J. B. Gould & Co. also deal in coal. In 18()1 Mr. L. J. Knowles began to maniifacturo, in a modest way, his noted steam-pumjis. Mr. E. F. Strickland, who still remains at the works, and one assistant, manufactured ii.iv the then market. Now, the works emjiloy one hundred and thirty men. The sales are many thousand dollars yearly. These works are being consolidated with another firm. The pumps " Other tliau Warreu meu. 454 TOWN OF WARREN. arc known in Europe and Australia, and used with muth favor in the United States. This invention, with others from his fertile brain, gives him no inferior rank as a mechanician. The employment of superintendents of moral recti- tude and Christian character lias elevated the standard of the skilled mechanic, and given a higher tone to the aspirations of the young men in his employ. To the liberalit}' of Mr. Knowles and his workmen the village and town have been greatly improved. The Congregational church was built in West Warren, in 1869. The Roman Catholics, in 1872, built their large church in this village. This sect also holds meetings in Warren. The Methodists have a church in the process of erection, which, when com- pleted, will be an added orntiment to the many new buildings on this plain. Tlic several halls, in both villages, accommodate the public assemblies, as well as the public and secret societies. From the pavilion stand, in the park, the citizens arc regaled by the silvery tones of the cornet, and harmony of other wind instruments, with the deep-stirring, soul-inspiring beat of drums. The fountain enclosure was built 1878 : may its utility or embellishment be appreciated. The fire companies, in the villages, are unusually well equipped with means of preventing a conflagration. The farmers are distinguished more for the equal- ization of wealth, than the excelling of a few very rich land-owners. Thoir houses are large, and many are attractive. The farm implements and products, within the ample barns and sheds, show the intelligence and thrift of the owners. The facility for transporting milk, nearly a thousand gallons being sent daily to Boston, is one of the great resources of the industrious, painstaking tiller of the soil. The Worcester County Cheese Factory was one of the earliest established in this vicinity. Another cheese factory is located in South Warren. Table butter is made a specialty in a few of the farm-houses, while the tub l)iitter is furnished from other sources. The herds of cows arc selected more in reference to the quantity than the quality of the milk. But few choice cattle are raised in town. The names of the farmers who live on the ancestral lands are the follow- ing:— S. II. Bliss, T. F. Cutler & Son, Vernon Reed, D. Rich, J. T. Combs, D. Shepard & Son, W. A. Patrick & Son, Sofron Switzcr, and Mrs. Joseph Cutler (sixth generation) ; also, those who bear the names of their kin, and very early settlers of the town : — Blair, Brooke, Burroughs, Cowee, Damon Gleason, Gray, Kejes, Tidd, Tyler and Chadwick. The earliest settler in West Warren, was Obadiah Cooley, then in Kingstown. The occasional visitor, or a son f)f Warren come back after years of absence to the old homestead, cannot fail to observe with pride the somewhat ornate brick structure on the site of the dilapidated sasv-mill, that always was more useful than ornamental. The building of this town house with its hall and commo- IMPROVEMENTS IN TOWN. 455 dioiis rooms, 1878, shows the thrift of Warrcu. The hall was dedicated Feb. 5, 1879. The address was written by the Rev. N. P. Pierce, D. D. Under- neath the hall is a large, well-lighted room, for the Free Public Library and reading-room. By the untiring energy of Nathan Richardson, Esq., also his nuuiilicence, as well as the liberality of others, the town will soon have a large an 1 well-se'euted libr.iry. The advautag?s of a free public library cannit be over-estimated. The studious youlh and the reading citizen will find in the many volumes new facts communicated, thought induced, the taste culti- v.ited, while the memory will be invigorated, the judgment strengthened, and the soul expanded. From the living we will turn to the "silent city of the dead," and mention a few of the citizens who have left footprints as they passed. Dr. E. Willard, a lineal descendant of Maj. Willard of Colonial days, a prominent member of the INIomit Carmel Lodge of Freemasons, then in Warren. Di-. Cyrus Hutchins, beside his medical skill, was deeply interested in the district schools and small town librar}'. Daniel Hitchcock, Esq.. for many years the postmaster and librarian. The planting of shade-trees, to beautify the home and street, is his living monument. David Kimball, A. M., a successful instructor, and an ardent lover of the book of nature. Daniel Powers, A. M., was senior tutor in Yale College at the time of his early death. Nathan Richard- son, author of the "Modern School for the Piano-forte." He died before his work had attained its popularity and success. Dr. Calvin Cutter, A. i\L, author of "Anatomy, Physiology and Hygiene," now used in the five grand divisions of the globe ; translated into seven dialects, and printed in raised letters for the blind. Dr. Nelson Carpenter, A. M., foremost in laudable reforms and a successful practitioner. Dr. Harvey S. Carpenter, whose early promise for great useful- ness was blighted by mental disease. Dr. L Warriner, beside his medical education, was one of the early professional dentists. A slate slab marks the grave of Nicholas Brown, a chaplain in the English army , — " who rests from the two-fold strife, — The battle-lielil of armies, aud the battle-tield of life." A eenotapli in the old portion of "God's Acre " is a monument to the dauntless warrior, Solomon Keyes. Another is commemorative of Noah .\shley. The heroes of the Revolution, the martyr dead of the Rebellion sleep in conse- crated graves. These mothers who moulded the plastic minds of past generations, these fathers scarred with the combats of life, though unknown to fame, have quietly filled their allotted spheres in life, nor are their ennobling energies now buried beneath the rubbish of time. The marble stood waiting, the Great Sculptor carved the plaudit, " Well done, good and faithful servants." 456 TOWN OF WEBSTER. "WEBSTER BY FREDERICK D. BROWN, M. D. CHAPTER I. A MODERN TOWN ORIGIN AND FORMATION SOIL AND NATURAL FEATCnES WATER SYSTEM MUNICIPAL ACTION STATISTICS BAPTIST CHUIICII METHODIST, CONGREGATIONAL, CATHOLIC AND OTHER CHURCHES. AVeuster was incorporated March G, 1832, and so called in honor of Daniel Webster. The territory was taken from the towns of Oxford and Dudlc}', together with a large tract of land known as "Oxford Soiitli Gore," not included in any township, although a part of Worcester County. Another tract "belonging to the Pegan Indians (a remnant of the ancient Nipmucks) was also included, which was a possession conceded to these Indians by the town of Dudley for their relinquishment of certain rights to land on Dudley Ilill, known as Black James & Co.'s grant, survej'ed to them in 1G84." The settlement of boundaries of the town was for some time after its im-or- poralion a source of much controversy, but these were finally established, in 18-11, as follows: The Connecticut State line forms the southern boundary; the (own of Douglas the eastern ; tlic town of Oxford the norther:! ; the French River and the town of Dudley the Western. It is a small township, not exceeding four miles in length, north and south, and three and a half tu width. Its area is fourteen scjuare miles, or about nine thousand acres. The distan(!0 from Boston is fifty-five miles west-south-west, and its latitude is 41° 5G' north, and longitude 5° 10' east from Washington. The surface of Webster is agreeably diversified by hilis and ])iains. The soil is naturally poor, very rocky and uni)roductivc, but patient industry has produced a wonderful change over much of this once barren and i)onighted legion, so that now the eye is iharmed by the sight of broad, undulating fields in a high state of cultivation. Near the centre of the town, at the base of a range of hills, lies as pictur- esque a lake as can be found in New England. From Bear Hill, the highest point in this range, the landscape spread out to view is extremely beautiful. Directly before us, at the foot of a rapid declivity, lie the tranquil waters, TOWN ORGANIZATION. 457 dotted here and there with charming islands covered with a mass of green shrubs and vines, or the heavier growth of timber, which ait appear to start from the water's edge, and contrast l)cantiful]y with the silvery ripples of the margin. The bold headlands and retiring inlets, from whose varied shades of green peer half-hidden cottages, the background of distant hills with an occa- sional spiie, present, indeed, a charming picture. This lake is known as "Chaubunagungamaug," * a name given it by the Indians whose villages were situated upon or near its shores. It covers an area of over 1,200 acres, or a little more than a seventh part of the whole territory of the town. At the North Village the waters are discharged into the French, or as called by the Indians, Maiiuexit River, a stream having its source in Leicester, and forming the dividing line between Webster and Dudley. It received the name of French River from a band of Huguenots who tied from France and settled in Oxford, near its banks. The meaning of the Indian name is not known. It is a constant and never-failing stream, and furnishes an abundance of power to the numerous manufactories situated along its banks. After a winding course it unites with the Quinebang, and goes to form the Thames at Norwich, Conn., which flows into Long Island Sound at New London. Webster is distinguished for its excellent roads, its substantial bridges, and the pleasing variety of its natui-al sccneiy. Four villages, namely, "North," "South," "East" and "Depot," all within a ladius of one mile, contain nearly all the population of the town. The tirst town meeting for the choice of officers was held April 2, 1832. Jonathan Day was chosen moderator and Charles Baldwin clerk. The follow- ing officers were elected : George B. Slater, John H. Day, John Learnard, Benjamin Wakefield, Nathan Cody, selectmen. Jonathan Day, Charles Bald- win, Joseph Bracket, assessors. Charles Tucker, treasurer. Henry Smith, collector. Rev. Thomas Barrett, Pereclete Morris, John Parker, George B. Slater, Josiah Sessions, Dr. John W. Tenny, school committee. At a second meeting held for the transaction of business, the following sums were appropriated: For support of schools, $500; town expenses, $1,200; roads, l)ridges, &c., .$500; total, $2,200. The number officeholders, 58; polls, 256; dwelling-houses, 120. The " III .'i si'aiih fur tbe mcaiim'; of this aborijiinal uame, the followiug diftVicnt spi'lliugs aro fouuil : — SlHtwijunagunkatfa or Chabanakongkomun. Keaeh's M.ap and Barljcr's History give Chargoggagog- gmumhaiiggagngg. To the latter name has lieen added (it is uot known l)y what authority) ■agungamaug ! Eliot (1068) gives Chahanakongkomun or Ongkomtim. This varied orthography was prohaljly caused Ijy the ignorance or carelessness of the writers, as very few of them ever wrote the name twice alike, Eliot alone excepted. It was hoped the Indian meaning of this luinie might l)e discovered, lint the research has afforded little information. The nearest approach to a trans- lation was found in eidlections of Connecticut Historical Society, by J. H. Trumbull, and w.is given as "(/»• hoinidani fwliing place," as the lake formed the bound mark between the yipmiickit and Muhlickaiis, and was resorted to by both nations, this may be accepted as a correct meaning. VOL. 11.— 58 458 TOWN OF WEBSTER. population of the town, at its iiicoiporatioii, was about 1,200, and has increased as follows: In 1840, 1,403; 1850, 2,371; 1855,2,727; 1800,2,925; 18G5, 3,G08; 1875, 5,064. Of the popiih'tion in 1875, 2,0G0 were of foreign birth, 3,004 native. Of the whole population only 1,249 were born in AVebstcr. The foreign-born voters numbered 25G, native, G37 ; total, 893, The following named citizens of this town have appeared in public life, occupying the offices mentioned at the dates annexed : — Jiepresentatives and Senators. — 1833, John Slater; 1834-35, Charles Tucker; 183G, John W. Tcnny ; 1837, Horace AVhitaker ; 1838, none sent ; 1839, Solomon Robinson ; 1840, Latbroj) Clark ; 1841, Joseph Ireson ; 1842, Eden Davis; 1843, Joseph Ireson ; 1844-45, Solomon Robinson ; 184G, John Dixon; 1847, John W. Tennj- ; 1848, none sent; 1849, John Dixon ; 1850, none sent ; 1851, Nathan Cody ; 1852, Chandler Fa}' ; 1853, no record ; 1854, Elias Jacobs ; 1855, George II. Bacon ; 1856, Parmenas Keith ; 1857, Henry E. Bugbee ; 1858, Lyman Sheldon; 1859, Asher Joslin. The district system adopted. 1861, Emory Siblej-; 18C3, Frederick D. Brown; 18G.'), Prince Brackett; 1867, Benjamin A. Corbin ; 1869, George J. Sanger; 1870, Charles H. Page; 1872, Horace I. Joslin; 1873, Andrew J. Waters; 1876, Frederick T. Chase; 1876, Francis Bugbee ; 1879, Robert Humphrey. Stnte Senators. — 1863, Asher Joslin ; 1868, Frederick D. Brown. Daniel Chapin was a delegate to revise the State Constitution, 1853. County Officers. — William II. Davis held the office of Special County Commissioner for three years — the only count}^ officer elected from Webster. Jonathan Day, Solomon Sliuraway and Rufus Hall have held the office of Deputy-SherifT. Toicn Clerks.— 1832-3S, Charles Baldwin; 1834, WiUiam E. Starr; 1835-36, Charles Waitc ; 1837, John P. Stockwell ; 1838, Harvey Conant ; 1839, William H. Bigelow; 1840-46, John Dixon, Jr. ; 1847-49, Edward Rogers; 1850, Liberty Lamb, Jr.; 1851, Francis II. Underwood; 1852, Edward Rogers; 1853-55, John Qiiincy Adams ; 1856, Newton Tourtellotte ; 1857-60, P. W. Bruce ; 1861-73, S. A. Tingier ; 1874, Cortland Wood ; 1875, S. A. Tingier ; 1876-79, Cortland Wood. The Bajjtist Church was first established as the "Baptist Church of Dudley," and its existence in that town and in Webster covers a period of nearly one hundred and fifty years. Little can now be learned concerning its early history ; but, as the records mention it as as early as 1744, it is probable that it existed some time previous. In 1790, Baptist meetings had become freipient in 'hat part of Dudley now incorporated as Webster. In 1798, a church was organized, and Mr. Solomon Waketield was ordained to the work of the gosjjel ministry ; not, however, as pastor, 3'et with the understanding that he would labor with the church in "in word and doctrine," Elder Wakefield was one of five brothers who were all settled between the present railroad depot and E ist Village. lie owned the land where the South Village is now located, and lived there ; he also owned a saw and grist mill. He is spoken of by the few who remember his ministry as zealous and earnest in his manner, and an acceptable preacher. RELIGIOUS ANNALS. 459 In 1810-12, meetings were frequent, — sometimes held iu private houses, at others in the unoccupied loft of the North Village factory, and also in a sciiool- house which stood where the Eddy Block now stands. The district, in building the house in 1812, had some reference to its use as a place in which to hold religious meetings, no meeting-house being near. It was sometimes used by the Univcrsalists, and also by the Methodists. The church was again organized Oct. 26, 1814, at the request of fifty-five persons, — twenty-seven males and twenty-eight females, — by an ecclesiastical council held in the above-mentioned school-house. The following churches ■were represented iu the council : — Rev. P. Crosby, pastor, Thompson, Conn. ; Rev. William Beutly, pastor, Worcester ; Rev. James Boomer, pastor, Charl- ton ; Rev. Z. L. Leonard, pastor, Sturbridge ; Rev. James Grow, pastor, Pomfrct, Conn. Rev. Luther Goddard and brothers, Jeremy F. Tolman and John AValker were invited to a seat, and acted with the council. Rev. Mr. Bently was chosen moderator, and the Rev. Mr. Leonard, scribe. The sermon ■was preached by Rev. James Grow, and the hand of fellowship given by the moderator. That this church had its origin under highly encouraging auspices may be inferred from the fact that it was the only church of any denomination in the vicinity and that it shared the general favor of the people. At a church meeting held Nov. 8, 1814, Mr. Stephen Bartlett and Mr. Nathaniel Crosby were chosen deacons, but they did not signify their accept- ance of the office until July 6, 1815. Mr. Ezck Brown, who had been a deacon of the church of Sutton, moved to this place; and, on the 15th of June, 1815, about eight months after the organization, was invited to servo as their pastor. The ordination was as follows : — The school-house in which they worshipped was deemed insufficient for the people cx[)ected to be present, and a spacious tent was built by Mr. Augustus Eddy for the occasion. At this time. Rev. Samuel Waters was elected moderator, and Rev. Zenas L. Leonard scribe. The sermon was delivered by Rev. Z. L. Leonard of Sturbridge ; ordaining prayer by Rev. James Grow of Pomfret, Conn. ; the charge by Rev. Samuel Waters of Sutton ; right hand of fellowship by Rev. William Bently of Worcester; concluding prayer by Rev. Isaac Dwinell of Auburn. Rev. Mr. Brown's labors hero continued for three 3-ears and three mouths. Ilis ministry was one of com- parative prosperity-. The church now remained destitute of a pastor seven j-ears and four months, but was supplied by ministers from the neighboring Baptist churches. In 1825-(), the society erected their first meeting-house, which was dedicated Dec. 2G, 182(). Elder Jonathan Going of Worcester delivering the sermon. The church had now become anxious to settle a pastor ; and Rev. John B. Ballard of Masonville, N. Y. , was invited, and accei)ted. lie was born iu Dudley Oct. 25, 1795, and entered Hamilton Theological Institute, N. Y., in 1820. The commencement of Mr. Ballard's ministry here may be considered 460 TOWN OF WEBSTER. ail era willi the church. In the spring of 1827, lie fouiKlcJ t'.ic tirst S;ibb;ith school ever taught in tiiis place. Mv. Ballard closcil his lah.irs here iu the spring of 1828, having served about two years and threj months. He died in the city of New York, Jan. 29, 1856, aged 60 years. From this time down to the present, the following have served as pastors: — 1828, Rev. Joshua Eveleth, several months; 1829, Rev. Ilubbel Looinis, one year; 1830, Rev. Thomas Barnett, two years five mouths ; 1832, Ruv. Abiel Fisher, one year si.\ months; 1834, Rev. James Grow, one year; 1836, Rev. Loomis G. Le m- ard, six years seven months; 1843, Rev. John F. Burbank, three years live months; 1849, Rev. Joseph Thayer, one year; 1850, Rev. Frederic Chariton, three j'ears ; 1853, Rev. George W. Dorrence, two years; 1856, Rev. J. L. A. Fish, seven years three months. The vacant pastorate was filled Oct. 1, 1863, by Rev. Charles W. Reding, a gentleman of culture and large experience, who continued his labors with the church until 1809. During Mr. Reding's ministry the society erected the present church edifice. It is constructed of stone, in the Gothic style, and cost $31,067, being the most elegant and graceful church in the place. Mr. Reding was followed by Rev. J. V. Osterhout, who was ordained Aug. 9, 1869, and resigned Aug. 1, 1873. Rev. Thomas T. Filmer succeeded him, and began his pastorate Nov. 1, 1873 ; and continues to the present time. Prominent among the members of this society have been Solomon Robinson and Biince Brackett. Both were elected deacons iu 1831, and still continue in that office. The former served as clerk for thirty years, and at present acts as treasurer of the society. Dyer Freeman was also deacon for a numl)er of years. The society is in a flourishing condition. Much of the foregoing history has been e.xtracted from a historical discourse delivered by Mr. Reding at the celebration of the fiftieth anniversary of the organization of the church, Oct. 30, 1864. The history of the Methodist Episcopal Cliurch in Webster affords the fol- lowiug facts. About the years 1822 and 1>S23 Samuel Henderson and John McCauslaud came to this country from Ireland and settled in this place. Tliey established class-meetings at their homes. In 1S23 they, with the f.)ll:)wing persons, were inslrimicntal in organizing a society : Samuel J. Booth, William Archer, Parsons Tomtellott, Olney Esten, Ebcnezer Plummer, William Iliir- benson, William Ilurd, Ilozokiah Davis, Calvin Aldiich, Charles Wait, Henry Davis, John Dixon, William Andrews, Daniel Dwight, Oliver Adams, Jr., Jeremiah Upham. A few years later, Capt. Hiram Moditt, Erastus Spaulding, and George Housou, with others, joined the society, materially increasing its strength. Their first preacher was Rev. Elias Marble, who labored with them for two years. His successors have been as follows: 1825, John W. Hardy ; 1826, John W. Chase ; 1827, Heman Perry ; 1S28, George Southerlaud ; 182!', Isaac Bonny; 1830, John Lovejoy ; 1831, O. Robbins ; 1832, Peter Sabin ; 1833, LATER CHURCHES. 4GI Isaac Jcnnison ; 1834, Ira M. Bidwell ; 1835, Jonathan Cady ; 1836-37, Isaac Stoddard; 1838-39, Joseph Merrill ; 1840, Isaac Sanborn ; 1841-42, Abraham D. Merrill; 1843-44, Leonard B. Griffin ; 1845-46, ]Mark Staple; 1847-48, Chas. S. McRedding; 1849-50, Joseph Lewis; 1851-52, D. E. Chnpin ; 1853-54, Union Ward; 1855-56, Samuel Tupper ; 1857-58, Jeremiah S. Ilaniford; 1850, Abraham S. Dobbs ; 1860-61, Pliny Wood; 1862, Joseph C. Cromack; 1863-64; Cyrus Eastman; 1865, James W. Murey ; 1866-67, Edward S. Best: 1868-70, All)inus O. Hamilton ; 1871-72, LeRoy S. Brews- ter; 1873-74, William J. Pomfrct ; 1875-76, Daniel Richards; 1877-79,8. B. Sweetser. The preachers from 1823 to 1833 belonged to the Thompson and Dudley circuits. Tlicir first church edifice was erected in 1828, where Benjamin A. Corbin's residence now stands, and was dedicated June, 1829. The cost of this build- ing and land was $1,467.40, "including two dollars and ninety-two cents paid for two and a half gallons rum for raising." The trustees wei'e Daniel Dwight, Oliver Adams, Jr., Jeremiah Upham, William Archer, Calvin Aldrich. This building was moved and afterwards known as Fenner's Hall, now a part of McQuaid's Block. A second building was erected near the East Village in 1833, at a cost of $i,626 ; this time including twenty-six pounds of cheese at nine cents per pound, for the raising, being a noteworthy change in refreshments. The builder was Jonas Lamb; building committee, George B. Slater, Esq., Jona- than Day, William Archer, AVilliam Andrews; trustees, William Andrews, AVilliam Archer, Samuel Henderson, John Dixon, John McCausland, Calvin Aldrich, Henrv Davis, Charles Wait, William Hurd. This l)uilding is now occupied by the Fiench Catholics. The third church building, the one in present use, is situated on Main Street nearly opposite the site of the society's first church. This building was creeled in 1867, and dedicated September 12 that same year. The builder was Caleb S. Hall; building committee, Rev. E. S. Best, B. A. Corbin, C. C. Corbin, William H. Davis, C. S. Hall, Cyrus Spaulding. The trustees were, B. A. Corbin, C. C. Corbin, Samuel Aldrich, Amasa Wood, Hon. Asher Joslin, David Wellington, C. S. Hall, Robert Humphrey, Esbon White. The cost of land, building, and fixtures, including an organ, was $22,000. The church has been fairly prosperous, averaging of late years two hundred and twenty-five mem- bers. The First Congregational Church and Society were organized June 13, 1838, by forty-one persons, most of whom had previously worshipped with the Bap- tists. At the first meeting for the organization of the society, Jonathan Day was chosen moderator and James J. Robinson elected clerk ; George B. Slater, Dexter W. Jones, and Lyman Johnson were (hosen assessors and standing committee. Provisions were at once made for the support of preaching, and 4G2 TOWN OF WEBSTER. meetings were regularly held in the meetiug-bouse, first occupied hy the Slethodists, until the year 1842, when the present house of worship was erected. It was enlarged in 1849, so as to admit twenty-four additional pews. Rev. Sidney Ilolman, the first pastor, was installed Oct 31, 1838, and was dismissed May 4, 1840. The following have served as pastors: Hubbard A. Reed, from May 0, 1841 to Nov. 5, 1844; Lorenzo Gary, from Aug. 14, 1845, to June 20, 1852; S. C. Kendall, from March 29, 1854, to March 30, 1857, and from Nov. 8, 18G0, to July 22, 18G8 ; David M. Bean, from Dec. 10, 1868, to May 25, 1871 ; J. S. Batchclder, from Dec. 6, 1871, to Sept. 7, 1874; ri. M. Rogers, from Dec. 9, 1874, to Sept. 28, 1876. The first deacons were Lathrop Clark and Ebenezcr Guild, l)oth chosen June 24, 1838. The following have served since then : Edward Parker, chosen Nov. 6, 1841 ; Charles Carpenter, chosen Oct. 12, 1845 ; James J. Robinson, chosen 1850; W.aldo Johnson, chosen Sept. 7, 1764; David Perry, chosen Feb. 19, 1868; Hiram Spanlding, Feb. 19, 1868; Rufus B. Eddy, chosen Dec. 30, 1878 ; J. E. Hitchcock, chosen Dec. 30, 1878. The first records of the Catholic parish of Webster date back to 1844, at which time Webster and surrounding towns within the limits of the county of Worcester were under the charge of the pastor of St. John's Church, Worces- ter. The foundations of the present church edifice, known as St. Louis' Church, was commenced l)y the Rev. M. Gibson, who resigned his charge in 1853, and was succeeded the same year by the Rev. N-ii)olcon Magnault. The original church was completed during the administration of Mr. Magnault, at a cost of about $8,000. It is a plain, substantial l)iick building, with room for sealing five hundred persons. In August, 1858, the present pustor, James Quan, was appointed to the charge of the parish. There was at that time a large congregation, composed of an English and French speaking people, and the numbers were rapidly increasing by emigration from Ireland, Canada, Ger- many, and Poland. Therefore, in 1865, it was deemed necessary to enlarge the church. This was done by doubling the capacity of the building, at a cost of $20,000, subsequent to which a parish house was built, at a cost of $7,500. In 1870 the French-speaking members of the parish formed the Parish of the Sacred Heart, numbering two thousand souls ; the Parish of St. Louis has an equal number. In November, 1869, the French-speaking population of Webster purchased of H. N. Slater, Esq., the meeting-house formerly occupied by the Metho- dists, and next year established a society, wilh the Rev. J. Cosson as pas- tor. Ho continued here until Jan. 7, 1871, when he was removed to Spencer. lie was succeeded by Rev. A. A. Landry of North Adams, the present pastor. Since the society was established the church has received several important additions, making it a fine and substantial building. The num- ber of communicants is thirteen hundred ; number in Sabbath school, three hundred. DEDICATION SERVICE. 403 The doctrine of Universalism was preached in Webster long before any attempt was made to organize a church. These meetings were held in an "old school-house," and more recently in what was known as Fenncr's Hall. They also occupied Webster Hall for a, time. The society was first organized April 22, 18G1. John F. Hines was chosen clerk, a position which ho has hold to the present time. The first standing committee were Oscar F. Chase, John W. Steere, and Ethan Bul- lard. May 1, 1864, Rev. George J. Sanger was ordained the first pastor. Efforts were now made by the friends of the society to raise funds for the purpose of building a church edifice. These efforts proved successful, and on the 22d of June, 18G6, the society was reorganized, under the provisions of chapter 30 of the General Statutes of Massachusetts, a legal corporation. At this date a building committee was chosen, with full powers to contract for the building of the church. This was done at the expense of about $20,000, and it was dedicated Aug. 21, 18G7. Rev. Mr. Sanger closed his labors here, April, 1869. He was succeeded by Rev. J. W. Keyes, who resi"'ncd after a short pastorate. For some time after this the pulpit was supplied by Rev. Mrs. Wilkes and others. Early in 1874, Rev. J. W. Moore was called to its pastorate, and continued his labors until the fall of 1877. In September, 1878, the present pastor, Rev. J. F. Simmons, accepted a call. In February, 1876, a severe gale blew down the steeple of the cliurcli and otherwise seriously damaged the building, which rendered extensive repairs necessary. Mrs. Julia Clemens Murdock, a life-long Universalist and friend of the society, died April 27, 1879, leaving the greater part of her estate, amounting to sev- eral thousand dollars, to the society. The first service of the Protestant Episcopal Church was held in the town hall at East Webster, July 18, 1869, by the Rev. AYilliam Henry Brooks, D. D., rector of Grace Church, Oxford. The society, having no church of their own, held their services in such places as could conveniently be obtained, until the church edifice was erected. A parish was formed Jan. 3, 1870, with the name of the Church of the Reconciliation ; and July 18, 1870, it being the first anniversary of the services in the parish, the corner-stone of the church was laid. Rev. Dr. Brooks ofBciating in the absence of the Bishop of the Diocese. The following deposits, placed in a lead box, were inserted in the corner-stone : Holy Bible, Book of Common Piayer, Churchman's Year Book, 1870, Journal of the Sevcnty-nintli Convention of tlie Diocese of Massachu- setts, Manuscript Historical Sketch of the parish, prepared by the rector, office used at the laying of the corner-stone, list of the officers of the parish, blank form of the music in the service of the parish, "Christian Witness" and "Church Advocate," for April 14, May 17 and May 26, 1870, "Churchman," April 2, 1870, "Church Journal," Juno 8, 1870, " Wclister Times," June 18, 1870, report of town officers of Webster for 1869-70, report of school com- 404 TOWN OF WEBSTER. mittee of W('l)ster fur 18G9-70, "Worcester Daily Spy," July 16, 1870, " Boston Moniiiiir Journal," July IG, 1870, specimens of fractional currency, &e. The prayer was given by Rev. Thomas L. Rantlolpli of St. Jolm's Church, Wilkinsonville. The aJdress, which was able and appropriate, was delivered by the Rev. AVilliam N. Acklcy, rector of Trinity Church, Newtown, Conn. The services were concluded by Rev. James W. Clark, of St. Philip's Church, Putnam, Conn., who pronounced the blessing of peace. The freewill offerings given on this occasion amounted to $4,619.10. The church cdi6ce is constructed of wood, in Gothic stylo, and erected upon land generously donated by AV'illiam S. Slater, Esq. It has a seating capacit\- for three hundred persons, with provisions for easy enlargement, when desire- />«■> "nil >f ■ I I i I : s I I i 'J H. N. SLATKRS COTTON MILL, WEBSTER, MASS. H. N. SL.VTEBS WOOLEN MILL, WEUSTEIt, MASS. VALUABLE MANUFACTURES. 471 Soon after the commencement of the war of 1812, the woolen manufactures were slimuhited throngliout the country by the necessities growing out of it. In 1815, one of the employes of the Merino Wool Factor^', Edward Howard, an Englishman, started a small woolen-mill in the employ of Samuel Slater, at the East Village, for the manufacture of broadcloths and other similar woolens. Tliis continued until destroyed by fire in 1820, when a purchase was made of a privilege at the South Village, and the business transferred to the site of what is now the Slater Woolen Company's Works. Mills were erected and the business carried ou, increasing from three to five sets, under the firm of Slater & Howard until the close of 1829, when Mr. Slater purchased Mr. Howard's interest and associated with himself his three sons, George B., John and Horatio N., under the firm of Samuel Slater & Sons. This firm-name has continued to the present time. It may be interesting to state that this is believed to bo the first attempt to manufacture American broadcloths, and with what success is best illustrated by the fact that of all firms who have commenced its manu- facture, this one is the only oue to carry it ou continuously for more than sixty years. The rapid increase of business and population of the three villages which had grown up from his enterprise, made it desirable to incorporate them into a sep- arate town, which was done, mainly through Mr. Slater's influence in 1832. At that time there were five sets of woolen machinery at the South Village. The company were engaged in the manufacture of wool-dyed broadcloths and cassimeres of various colors. The principal mill was burned iu the winter of 1834—5, but was immediately rebuilt of the same size. In 1843 it was increased to seven sets. Additions have been made from time to time, until in 18()1 it had been increased to fourteen sets. In 18G5 it had reached thirty-two sets. This year a corporation was formed with Horatio X. Slater, president; II. N. Slater, Jr., treasurer; William S. Slater, R. O. Storrs, directors ; with a capital of five hundred thousand dollars. In 1873 the mill was further increased until it contained thirty-six sets. It has since been remodeled, and now contains thirty-three sets. During this whole period these works have been engaged in the manufacture of broadcloths, doeskins, and other woolen-face goods. The East Village mill in 1832 consisted of f )ur thousand spindles and one hundred looms, engaged in the manufacture of yard-wide sheetings, dyeing and bleaching cotton thread and knitting-cotton. At the Xorlh Village was a thread mill of ai)out two thousand s|)indles, and twisting machines for the manufacture of sewing-thread and knitting-cotton. In 1844 new buildings were erected, with one thousand spindles and one hundred and sixty looms for the manufac- ture of fine shirtings. During the same year additions were made at the East Village, increasing the works there t:> seven thousand spindles. From this time up to the year 1854, the works at the East and North villages had been increased by the additions of looms and spindles, and not until during the war, 472 TOWN OF WEBSTER. was iiuy change made ; ailditions have since I)ccn niado from time to time, until the works at present consist of forty thousand spindles and seven hun- dred and forty looms. A new branch of i)Usiiiess, requiring less cotton and more help, was inaugu- rated during the war, at the East Village. This was the manufacture of jaconets or paper cambrics. The enterprise rc(]uired the introduction of works for dyeing, bleaching, and calendering cottiMis. The business proved successful, and has gradually been increased. In January, 1878, the "Green Mill" was dcstro3cd by fire and immodiateh' rebuilt, wilh a capacity of dyeing and finish- ing a variety of cotton to the extent of ten thousand pieces per week. To illustrate still further the growth of this iiusiness, these facts are given. Samuel Slater &, Sons employed in the month of May, 1832, one hundred and thirty hands, producing 8,113| yards, two-thirds of which were broadcloths and the remainder satinets. The pay-roll for that month amounted to $1,028.- 28. For the corresponding month in 1875, the Webster Woolen Con)|)anv cmplo3'ed seven hundred and eleven hands, producing 52,386|^ yards broad- cloths ; the pay-roll amounted to $13,751.97. The Union Mills, North Village, emplo3^ed in 1832, one hundred and fifiy- niue hands, producing monthly, 63, GOO yards cotton cloth. In 1875, the nmn- bcr of hands employed was four hundred and ten, producing 413,350 yards monthly. At the East Village mills, one hundred and thirty-five hands employed, pro- duced 23,479 pieces cambrics. In addition to their mills, the firm carry on at the South Vilhige, a large store, embracing every department, and in which are employed thirty-eight clerks. The total number of hands employed by the company is over fourlecn hundred. Samuel Slater died on the 20th of April, 1835, aged sixty-seven. " No man of his time engaged in business in this countr}-, was more generally known or maintained more liiglily bis integrity lor fair and bouorable dealing ; or who^c moral worth was more highly regarded. His naturally kind feeling inclined him to acts of benevolence, and no one with a just claim for favor left him withont partaking of his liberalit}'. " The extensive manufacturing business systematized and conducted here advanta- geously' by Mr. fSlater, has since been carried on under the direction of his son Horatio N. Slater, Esq., with equal success:" [and who, in 1875, purchased of the heirs of his brother George B., Mrs. Lydia R. Slater and William S. Slater their interest in the roannfaeturing business]. " The rise and i)rogrcbs of this business has made the town of Webster, and whatever belongs to its historv and that of this family, is but a part of the history of the town."* .\t the date of the incorporation of the town, Samuel Slater iJic Sons owned and employed all the water-power in the place, with the exception of the privi- * Aunuiilowu'H Historical Colluctious. SHOE BUSINESS. 473 lege then known :is the Nichols Cotton Factory, and more recently ns Fenner's Mills. This mill was located in the south-western part of the town, on the French River ; and was a small factory containing throe thousand four hundred spindles and employing al).>ut one hundred and eighty hands. It was burntid June 11, 185."), and t!ie water-power is now owned and used on the Dudley side of the river hy Frederick T. Chase, under the firm-name of John Chase q. He continued in this place until his decease in 1874. The amount of business done liy him varied from sixty to seventy-five thousand dollars per annum. Charles E. Brown entered business in 1850 as a member of the firm of Bugbee, Tourtellott & Co., and afterwards as a member of the firm of Bugbee & Brown, and contiuued therein until 1855, when he bogan business alone in a shop owned by the Union Store Company, upon Pleasant Street. Ho remained here until 18(52, when he removed to rooms in Mechanics' Block upon Main Street; and remained therein initil 18G6, when he again removed to Pleasant Street, occupying a shop erected by himself. In 1873, he removed I'rom this shop to the building erected by the Wel)ster Power Company, where he remained until the destruction of the building by fiie, in June, 1879. The average number of hands employed by him was one hundred, and the average amount of business was from one hundred to one hiuidred and twenty-five thousand dollars per annum. In April, 1851, Mr. B. A. Corbin moved his business from Dudley, where he had previously been located, to Webster. Ho occupied a shop erected l)y himself at the rear of his residence upon Main Street. At this time he did a business aggregating about two hundred thousand dollar.s per annum, employing from one iumdred and forty to one hundred and sixt}- hands. In 1855, ho formed a partnership with Robert Humphrey and Edward Mixer. This new firm continued for one year, and did a business of about the same amount as above. From 1850 to 1862 the l)nsiness was increased to an amount some- what in excess of three hundred thousand dollars per annum, with a corre- BUSINESS RECORD. 475 sponding increase in the number of bauds employed. lu September, 18G2, Chester C. Corbiu was made a partner in the business, which was done under the name of B. A. Corbin & Son, whicii still continues. The (inn, from 18(52 to 1870, did a business from three hundred and fifty to four hundred and sixty thousand dollars per annum, and, from 1870 to 1878, an average of three hundred and sixty thousand dollars, furnishing employment to about three hundred persons. The same is true of them, as of all other shoe manufacturers; namely, the number of persons employed to do the same amount of work as formerly has been materially reduced by the addition of labor-saving machinery. Upon retiring from the firm of B. A. Corbin & Co., in 1856, Robert Humphrey and Edward IMixer organized the firm of Mixer & Humphrey, and located in Merchants' Block. They remained in business until 1860, when the firm was dissolved ; and Mr. Humphrey continued the business at the old place until he moved to the building erected by John E. Edmund-s. He continued in this place until 1872, when he again removed to the shop erected by the Power Conipau}-. lu 1876, he admitted Byron Burnham to partnership, and the business has since been done under the firm-name of Humphrey & Burnham. The business done by Mr. Humphrey, and also that done by Himiphrcy & Burnham, aggregated about one hundred and fifty thousand dollars a year, and now gives employment to about one hundred and forty persons. In April, 1859, Francis Bugl)ce and John L. Harris commenced manufactur- ing, under the firm-name of Bugbee & Harris, in the east half of the Fenner Hall building, a room occupied by Eden Davis in 1818 for a like purpose. The firm continued in business until February, 1860. It gave employment to al)i)Ut fifty persons, the business aggregating about seventy-five thousand dollars per annum. The firm of C. F. Barnes & Co. manufactured shoes in the Ames building for about two years, and afterwards in the Power Company's building, for a few mouths, when the business was discontinued. The firm employed from sixt}' to eight}' hands, doing a business of from seventj'-five to one hundred thousand dollars a year. AVarren B. Johnson commenced manufacturing in 1858, on Church Street. He employed about twenty-five hands, making two cases per day. In 1860, he discontinued the business. Tracy & Bates and Corl)in & Bruce, each did a small business for a short time. With the excepti(jn of the cotton and woolen manufacture, this is the heaviest branch of business done here, and gives employment to more persons than all others combined. Not less than one thousand in this vicinit}' are directly or indirectly connected wiih it. A large portion of these goods are shipped to the West and South direct, the rest to Boston and New York. The Webster Steam Power Company, a company formed for the purpose of 476 TOWN OF WEBSTER. fiiiiiishing power for various manufactories, was organized in 1872, by James D. Tourtc'llott, Waldo Johnson, Henry Bixby, Marvin Wilson and Benjamin F. Smith, representing a capital of forty thousand dollars. The company erected a largo three-story machine shop, 50 by 112 ; a three-story shoe shop, 30 by 80; an iron foundry 40 b}- 70, and a fire-proof engine and boiler house, containing a one hundred and twenty horse power Wheelock engine, and two boilers of sixly-Iiorse power each. Later were added a grist-mill with a cajjacity fir grinding fifty bushels per hour, a saw-mill, box shop, and other wood-working shops. By 1875, the withdrawal of the other members of llie company, left the whole interest in the hands of Mr. Bixby, under whose personal management it still remains. The main building, foundry, and grist- mill were destroyed by fire, June 21, 1870, involving a loss to the owner and occupants ab;)nt fifty thousand dollars. John Gnnu established a stc.im and gas pipe fitting shop in 1865, and an iron foundry in lt'74, at which time he occni)ied rooms in the Power Com- pany's l)nildings. John Flint has a large bakery, with patent "reel oven" and steam-power. It was started in 1811, and docs business worth $25,000 yearly. J. D. Putnam moved his stair building and moulding business from Dudley to a shop erected by the Power Company in 1872. He was burned out a year or two after, and, in 1875, erected, on Chase Avenue, a building where he still continues. His annual business is about $10,000. A post-ollice, for the acconnnodation of what is now Webster, was estab- lished i.t the East Village and called South Oxford. It was continued there after the incorporation of the town, untd about the year 1841, when it was moved to the Depot Village. Postmasters : Jonathan Day, till 1848 ; Chester Clemens, till 1853; Lyman Sheldon, till 18G1 ; Augustus E. Day, till 187U ; then Edgar A. Hill. The Webster Five Cents Savings Bank was incorporated March, 18G8, and commenced business the following August. The amount of deposits Decem- ber, 1878, was $2G8,Gi'5.62. Number of depositors, one thousand five hundred and ninety-three. The present ofBccrs are : — Frederick D. Brown, president ; Edwin May, treasurer ; C. A. Hodges, secretarj*. The First National Bank was chartered Dec. 13, 1875, with a capital of $100,000. The first annual meeting was held Jan. 11, 187G, and the bank began business six days after. The individual deposits for the first day amounted to $33,705.44. The average amount of deposits for the first six months, was $G0,743.n9. The average for the six months ending Juno 30, 187i), was $85,543.73. President: Chester C. Corbiu, Edward L. Spalding, cashier. Both of these banks are located in Eddy Block, ]Main Street. Fimt District Court, SoiU/iern Worcester. — Standing justice, Clark Jillson. First special justice, F. W. Botham, Southl>ridge ; second special justice, William II. Davis, Webster. Sessions for criminal business, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Civil business on Tuesdays. LOCAL NOTES. 477 The AVciislcr Gas-Light Conipany commenced business in 1SG5, and is con- tniiled by the Stevens Linen Works. Several attempts had been made previous to 1859 to establish a paper or l)rinting-()fSce iii the place, but without success. In March, 1859, J. A. Sp.ilding commenced the publication of "The Webster Weeiily Times," which proved successful. It has changed hands several times; John A. Dresser, Charles R. Stubbs, and John Cort having successively occupied the "editorial chair." The "Times" is fairly patronized and regarded as one of the per- manent institutions of the t(jwn. In counectiyn with the i)aper is a large job- printing office. The "Webster Temperance House" was first opened to the public in 1844, by Xathan Joslin, and kept by him for several years. It was assumed by his son, Horace I., the present landlord, in liS'iG, and the name changed to the "Joslin House." It has always been conducted on strictly temperance prin- ciples, and is the chief hotel of the place. The fire department, as at present organized, consists of one hundred and twelve men, and the following apparatus: — One steam fire-engine, one hand- engine, one hose company, one hook and ladder company. The department property amounts to $23,5G5.GG. In 18G7, the town introduced a system of water-works at a cost of eighteen thousand dollars. The supply is from pumps situated in the Slater Mills. In 1874, the School Street engine-house was constructed of brick, costing over ten thousand dollars. It is well supplied with all the modern conveniences. The AVebster Lodge of free and accepted Masons, constituted Sept. 10, 1859, has about seventy-five members, but formerly one hundi'cd and ten. They have an elegantly furnished hall in S[)aulding"s Block. Nathaniel Lyon Post Gl, G. A. R. , organized in 18G8, has eighty-ibur mem- bers. It is in a flourishing condition, and has done much good. The Sigel Lodge I). O. II. No. 93, a mutual benevolent societ}- of the Masonic order, chartered IMarch 24, 1863, is composed of German citizens, and has fort3'-two members. Its relief fund amounts to $1,983.G4. Among the other societies are the Artesian Council, No. 95; Sons f)f In- dustry ; Royal Arcanum ; Temperance Societies, &c. A Library Association, known as the "Young People's Library," and later as the Webster Library Association, was incorporated in 18G7, and still exists. Under its auspices the citizens have be en furnished with many courses of popular lectures. A debating society imder the name of the Webster Lyceum, flourished for several years. The National Centennial was heartily celebrated on the 4th of July, 187(5. Decorations were displayed in great piofusion ; a procession paraded the prin- cipal streets, and a national salute was fired at sunrise, noon and sunset, with fire-works in the evening. Anaecount of the celebration, contained in a sealed metallic box, is deposited among the archives of the town to be opened July 4, 197G. 478 TOWN OF WEBSTER. "Of the inhabitants within the territorj- now Webster, the most influential in llie west part, in the vicinity of the French River, were a numerous family by the name of Wakcfiekl, descendants of Joseph WakcQekl, one of the early settlers of Dudley. Ilis son Solomon was a Baptist preacher, and one of the pioneers of that denomination in this region. This family controlled the principal part of the water power upon the French River. Solomon Wakefield had deceased at the time of Mr. Howard's first purchase here (in liehalf of Samuel Slater) of his descendants — William, David and Joel Wakefield, and Gibbs Dodge, who were the principal parties interested in this water power. ' Many of their descendants are still living in the town. " Luther and Stephen Bartlett were also prominent men in this vicinity ; while in the East Village the most enterprising men were Elijah Pratt, Asa and Samuel Robin- son, John and Alanson Bates, and several by the name of Kingsbur}- ; all men of con- siderable character and standing." George B. Slater, third son of Samuel Slater, was horn Feb. 12, 1804, died here Nov. 15, 1843, aged 39. At the time of his death Mr. Slater was one of the firm of Samuel Slater & Sons. He was a man of the strictest integrity and uprightness of character, universally esteemed and respected in this com- munity for his urbanity and kindness of heart. He was prominent in securing the incorporation of the town, and in organizing its govornmeut, for no person shared more largely the public confidence than he. Dr. Charles Negus, for more than forty years a successful physician, was was born in W^oodstock, Couu., July, 1791, and died here September, 1856. Dr. John W. Tenuy, a gentlemen of culture and ability, who twice repre- sented the town in the Legislature, and was otherwise prominent in town affairs, died here in 1848. John P. Stock well, a prominent merchant, erected the lirst store in the Depot Village. He was a man of enterprise, took a lively interest in town affairs, being town clerk in 1848, when he died. John Dixon, one of the early merchants, represented the town in the General Court, and held various town offices. Rev. Joseph Ireson, for many years a resident of the town, and for five j-ears its treasurer, also twice represented the town in the Legislature and died hero in 1857. The town is fast increasing in population and wealth, and real estate is rising in vahie. The two railroads, — the Norwich and Worcester, and the Southbridgo branch of the Now York and New England, — which form a jimctiou here, give direct communication with Worcester, Boston, Providence and New York. SOIL AND SUEFACE. 479 WE STB O ROUGH. BY REV. HEMAN P. DE FOREST. CHAPTER I. TOrOGRAPHICAL FEATURES PIONEER SETTLEMENTS INDIAN TROUBLES INCORPORATION EARLY TOWN PROCEEDINGS FIRST CnURCH BUILT MINISTERS — PROGRESS OF SETTLEMENT SEPARATION OF NORTHBOROUGH MILITARY DISPOSITION. Westborougii is one of the easterly towns of Worcester County, and is situated on the line of the Boston and Albany Railroad, liiirty-two n)ilcs west of Boston, and twelve miles east of Worcester. Nortliborough, originally a part of Westborougii, bounds it on the north ; Southborough and Ilopkintoa on the oast ; Upton on the south ; and Grafton and Shrewsbury on the west. Its surface is pleasantly diversified. The village, centrally located, occupies the southerly portion of a large plain, while immediately to the south and west rise low rounded hills, the highest of which is seven hundred and seven feet above the sea. In the north-east, there are also hills of nearly the samo height. The extreme eastern portion of the town, as well as a smaller section east of Chauncy Pond, is low and swampy, covered with woods in which the cedar abounds; but, notwilhstanding these swamps, fog and dampness prevail less than in some adjoining hill-towns, owing to a loose, gravelly subsoil tlirough which the surface-water quickly passes away. The health-rate is exceptionally good. Tliere are no large streams in the town, and the only considerable i)ody of water is Chauncy Pond, a sheet of a hundred and seventy- eight acres, near the northern boundary of the town. There are a few smaller ponds, one of which, nestled in a dark nook at the foot of Boston Ilill, was named by the Indians Ilobomoc, after their evil spirit, and retains the name, ah hough corrupted to Ilocomocco. Another, in the extreme south, a hundred and thirty-three feet above the level of the village, and known as Sandra's Pond, has recently (in 1878) been converted into a reservoir to supply the town with water. The little brooks which rise on the eastern slopes of the cluster of hills in 480 TOWN OF WESTBOROUGH. Ilic soutli part of (he town unite t'jcir streams to assist in forming the Stidljury liiver, while those on the west of the same hills gather themselves into t'lc Assalict ; and tliese two, receiving their names within the area of the town, pass around a considerable district to unite again in the Concord River, which pours their waters into the Merrimac at Lowe)!. The Indians who originally held this area belonged to the Pawtucket tribe, whose headquarters were at Wamesit, now LdwcII. Three of John Eliot's Indian villages lay just about this tract, — Ockoocangansett, in JIarlborougli ; Ilassanamisco, in Grafton; antl Maguncook, in Ilopkinton. The first white settlers came from Sudbury and Marlborough. Wcstborough, including Korlhborough in its limits, was originally the western section of Marlborough, I\Iiddlesex County, and, f.)r some time previous to its incorporation as a town, was known as the village of Chauncy. This name originated from the grant, in 1G.')1), of a farm in the vicinity of Chauncy Pond to Rev. Charles Chauncy, second president cf Harvard College. When, in the following year, Mirll)o- rou"h was incorporated, the grant was revoked, and Pres. Chauncy allowed to take up au equal amount of land elsewhere; but the "village" wliich speedily grew up in the western part of the town took his name, and retiined it until the incorporation of Westbjrongh. Marll)orough was incorporated in IGGO, and f;om t!io outset the westerly portion of its territory seems to have had special attractions fjr the settlers. Meadow-lands were especially valuable, since they afforded rich crops of grass without cultivation; and wc find, in IGGO and inG2, the names of .«ix large meadov/ tracts within the borders of Chauncy, which were divided in ecjual lots among the settlers. Probably the earliest settler in the original torritf)ry of Westb )rough was John Brigham, known as Dr. Brigham, and father of the John Brigham who subsequently led the movement for the incorporation of Shrcwsl)ury. IL> obtained a grant of land in 1G72, situated north of the present village of Xorth- borough, and including the meadows about Howard Brook. Here he built a saw-mill, and lived among the savages until their hostility drove him away. Capt. riohn Fay, subsequently prominent in town affairs, was early settled, with his brother Samuel, on what was called the Fay Farm, in the extreme west of the town, a part of the b )undar\- of which still exists in the curiously- shaped western projection of the town line. This farm was previously owned by John Brigham of Shrewsbury, and by him purchased of a " Mr. Jones of Connecticut." Thomas Rice has been said to be the earliest settler in the ter- ritory of the present town, and he was residing at the beginning of the ccnttir}' — perhaps as early as 1G75 — near the house now owned by Christoplicr Whitnc}'. In August, 1704, an Indian raid occurred in the meadow hard by his house, where he and others were spreading flax. From the hill above, thru thickly wojdcd, there rushed suddenly a band of Canadian Indians, whf) killed one boy on the spot, aud " captivated " four others, oue of whom, Timothy THE PIONEER SETTLEMENT. 481 Rice, aflciwards became a sachem of the Cagnavvagas, near Montreal. In 1711 this house was made one of the " garrison-houses " fur protection against the Indians. In 1(572 a grant of land was made to Samuel Goodnow, who l)uilt a house, afterwards garrisoned, and the scene of an Indian raid in 1707, near Stirrup Brook, where it crosses the road from Northhorough to Marlborough. John Rediet received a grant the same jear, part of which was the farm afterwards owned by the first ministers of Xorthi)orough. In 1G7G ^Marlborough was devastated b}' the Indians, and all growth, for a time, checked ; but, in a year or two, the settlers were back again, fighting with the hardships of frontier life, and with the wolves and wilJ-cats and rattle- snakes that infested the hills and forests. In 1688 "Chauncy" had grown to sufficient numbers to have a strong influ- ence in town affairs. Marlborough built that year a new nieeting-hoiise on the old spot, against the wishes of the Chauncy people, for whom it was incou^ venient of access; but the town voted that, if Chauncy grew large enough to build another meeting-house and support preaching, it should be set off as a new town, and indicated the future line of division. In 1702 a petition was before the General Court for the division of Marl- borough, but was refused. In 1717, however, another petition was presented, which jiroved more suc- gessful ; and, after a careful adjustment of boundaries between the Chauncy petitioners and settlers farther west, in what is now Shrewsliury, the town of Wcstborough was incorporated on the 18th of November, 1717. The territory included was essentially the Westborough and Northborough.of to-day, excepting nineteen himdred acres added from Sutton in 1728, making the southern projection of Westborough, and smaller additions from Upton, and from Shrewsbury Corner as late as 17G2. At this time, Westborough was bonnded on the north by Lancaster; on the east b}' Marlborough (SQUthborough was not yet set off; Ilopkinton was two years old) ; on the south were Meudon and Sutton, the latter just coming into existence ; on the west were Worcester and Brookfield. It was stipulated, according to custom, that the new town should immedi- ately reserve a snital)le and convenient lot for the first settled minister ; and it was to pay for the unclaimed land included in its boundaries eighty pounds, to be [)aid before June 1, 1723. According to the statement of Rev. Ebenezer Parkraan, tlie first settled ibinister of Westborough, the number of "first families" was twenty-seven, besides a number of yrtting men, unmarried as yet, who took up farms. He gives a list of twenty-five heads of families and si.\ young men, as follows : — Ileads of Families. — Thomas Rice, Charles Rice, John Fay, Samuel Fay, Thomas Forbush, David Maj-nard, Edmund Rice, David Brigham, Capt. Joseph Bylcs, James Bradish, John Pratt, John Pratt, Jr., Thomas Newton, Josiah Newton, llezeUiah Howe, 482 TOWX OF WESTBOEOUGH. Daniel Warren. Increase Ward, Benjamin Townscnd. Xatbanicl Oake?. Samuel Good- now, Gershom Fay, Simeon Howard, Adam Hollow,av, Thomas Ward, Joseph Wheeler. Youn(f ^fen. — John M.aynard. James Maynard. Aaron Forbush, Jacob Amsden, Ebenezer Bceman and Jonathan Brigham. The first town meeting was held Jnn. 15, 1718. The first business frans- actcd was a resolve "to Build a meeting-house forthwith," and the appointment of a committee "to wait on the Kcvd. Mr. Elmer, and to treat to Continue to Be our miuister, and to proceed for his ComfortaMe Subsistence as thay shal see meet." Then Thomas Rice, John Fay and Simeon Hayward were chosen temporary selectmen, and David Maynard constable. In February a joint committee of town and State laid out the minister's "lott," or, more exactly, approved the one already set apart in 1710 by the Marlborough proprittors "for the benefit of the ministry in the westerly end of Marlborough, called Chaunc}." and which consisted of "40 acres of upland and swamp west of Chauncy Pond," and "10 acres of meadow at the west end of Great Middle Meadow, near Ilobamoka Pond." The early colonists had provided a law, approved by King William, that every town should be constantly provided with "an able, learned and orthodox minister or ministers of good conversa- tion, to dispense the Word of God to them," and both their convictions :ind their first corporate acts were wont to be in harmony with this law, which thus laid the foundation of every new community in the institutions of religion. Mr. Elmer, whom they asked "to Continue to Be our minister," had already preached to them for some time. The following notice of him by Mr. Parkmau is all that is known : — " Mr. Daniel Elmer, a candidate for the ministry from Connecticut Kiver, preached here several years, and received a call from the people ; but there arose dissension, and though he built upon the farm which was given for the first settled minister, and d'vclt npon it, yet. by the advice of an ecclesiastical council, he desisted from preaching here, and, a quitclaim being given him of the farm, he sold it, and with his family rem-.ivenathau Bond, chairman. Still more warlike was the purchase of a field-piece, "a four-pounder," with shot, powder, lead and flints, and the appointment of another committee to provision troops in case of alarm. Capt. Stephen Maynard was appointed commander of all the soldiers in the town; the existing artillery companies were authorized, and another initiated ; their ofBcers recognized, and recruits called for. The c.ill for subscriptions met quick response, headed by Capt. Maynard, who subscribed £22 IDs. old tenor ; and a committee was appointed to go to Concord and hear the report of the General Congress, — the Rebel Congress which Gen. Gage could not disband, — and thus Westborongh came to the front. Every man ■was expected to bear his part without favor. They refused to give an extra bounty to the minute-men, because "they expected no more of them than of other men." Seven men were appointed to learn how to handle the field-piece " in a war- like manner, so that they may know how to conduct and behave themselves if ihey shall be wanted for our defence." The old meeting-house was the rendezvous, and in due time witnessed the rallying of armed men within its walls, to march for the defence of liberty. On the lt)th of April, 1775, the courier came from Concord, and found the minute-men ready : hastily drawn u[), and efpiip[)cd with powder, bullets^ Hints and hatchets, they marched off, and arrived near Boston that same night, by way of Lexington. Some of our men were at Bunker Hill. Thirty-two enlisted, under Capt. PROGRESS OF THE VILLAGE. 487 Moses Wheclock, for eight months; seventeen more wont in December, with (':ipt. Seth Morse, for two months ; and eighteen in January, 177G, with Lieut. James Godfrey. Some or all of these went to Cambridge and Dorchester. They were with the gallant army that surrounded Bostou in March, 177G, and saw from the earth-worUs on Dorchester Heights the evacuation of the city. Lieut. James Godfrey, with twenty-two men, was in the army with which Washiugton met the British at New York, after their retreat from Boston. From August to November, 1776, tifty men are enrolled, and sent to difTercut quarters. On the 23d of July, 1777, Lieut. -Col. Wheelock, by order from Cul. Job Gushing, called out half the "Alarm List and Training Baud," to appear at the meeting-house armed aud equipped, to march to Grafton and await orders. In all, judging from the bounty list, there were three hundred and fifty-two enli.-tmeuts in a town of nine hundred inhabitants. Of course, many were re-enlistments, and many came from out of town ; but it is a patriotic record, and shows what stulT was in our fathers. The young men, from the minister's sons down, did yeomen's service, aud the rest contril)uted, till they suffered, of money, and clothing, — spun and woven by the mothers aud daughters, — aud of provisions, until the war was over. There were doubtless many who, like Lieut. Ileury Marble, remained in the ai-my from the 19th day of April, 1775, to the close of the war in 1783, Others laid down their lives, or came home unfitted for further work. The war of 1861 has fitted this generation better to appreciate the sacrifices of 1776, aud to honor the memory of the fathers of liberty. The growth of the town went on in spite of the losses of the war. In 1791 it had one hundred aud eighteen houses and nine hundred and thirty-four inhabitants, and these, according to Peter Whitney's estimate, were industrious aud wealthy, "as any one must naturally suppose from the appearance of their l)laccs and buidings." In 1793 land was granted to Mr. WiliiLim Johnson for a noon-house. It was situated "beyond the pound," which stood near the present location of Bates's Straw Factory. Here he erected au octagon building, with a generous fin place in it, where the benumbed worshii)pcrs gathered between services to refresh the outer and inner man. This seems to have been removed afterwards to the present location of C. S. Hardy's blacksmith shop, and was finally taken down in 1818. The meeting-house itself had been hitherto a bare and uninteresting structure, without chimue}' or belfry. In 1773, when the porches were added, the town bluntly refused to build a steeple, or even to have one built free of expense. Rut in 1801 Mr. Samuel Parkmau, merchant, of Bostou, son of the old pastor, gave the town a bell (now in the belfry of the Baptist Church), and a belfry became a necessity. lu 1806 a clock was purchased and presented to the town by individuals, which remained in the steeple of the old church till 1842. 488 TOWN OF WESTBOROUGH. About 1809 the town graciously allowed Mr. Gardner Parker to put an oriran in the mecting-housc as an experiment; provided that if, alter six months, tlie town did not wish it longer, he should restore the seats in the gallery to their former condition. This remained after trial, and was certainly among the eai'licst instances of the use of church-organs in New England. In 1818 a powder-house was built in the corner of the old burying-gronnd, which remained there till 1840. In 1823 there was some talk of seeking their own comfort in church to the extent of putting in stoves, but it was voted down, and they were never used in the old church for any considerable time. A military company was organized hero in 1810, which came to be famous in the years following, and contained some of the best bh)od in its ranks. It was summoned to Boston in 1812, but whether ever in active service I have not ascertained. Pauperism was not frequent before the close of the century. A few cases appear in the records, but it was very unpopular to "come on the town," and the town was very shy of paupers. About 1763 a memorandum was begun in the town records of persons "warned out of town," according to law, to pre- vent their acquiring a residence, when it looked as though they might become dependent on town charity. In two or three years this list includes thirty- eight names, many of heads of families. In 1767 a workhouse was build by the town, on land owned by Timothy Warren, thirty feet by sixteen, and one story high, for which the sura of £26 13,s. id. was appropriated. In 1770 Geo. Andrews, Timothy Warren, and Abijah Gale were chosen the first over- seers of the poor, and it was voted that the workhouse should be regulated according to law. In 1700 the workhouse was sold, and for a quarter of a century the paupers were provided for (?) by being knocked down to the lowest bidder. Sul)se- quently they were all kept for a few years by Mr. Levi Bowman, who lived on the old Upton road ; and in 182-') measures wore taken to purchase a town-firm, resulting, soon after, in buying of Cupt. Daniel Chamberlain the one still in use. About 1810 the Boston and Worcester Turnpike was completed and the great days of coaching began. The first tavern on the lino seems to have been the house at the corner of the turnpike and Lyman Street. Soon after, "AVesson- villc " began to flourish. Capt. Silas Wesson built a tavern about 1827, and soon after a thread- factory was erected by Nathan A. Fisher nearly in rear of the tavern. This was run only a few years, and the building, marked by a small tower, is now connected with the old tav«rn on the Willow Park Grounds. A store was conducted here by Fisher & Lothrop until the railroad stopped the coaches ; and there was more stir and bustle, and for a time more rapid growth at this point, tiian in the central village. But in 1834 the Boston and Worcester Railroad pushed its track between th" THE REBELLION. 48# old meeting-house and the parsonage ; and the turnpike, with its stages and Itusy taverns, gave up its glory. "Wessonville gradually suecumbcd to the inevitable, and from that time all business Interests have been more and more concentrated in the centre of the town. In 1839 there were fifty dwelling-houses in the village, and the population of' the town was 1,G12. During this year the town hall was erected. It was at first a one-story building with basement. In 1842 it received a bell, and the' old clock was purchased from the First Congregational Society. In 18GG the building, above the basement, was raised up and a story inserted. The old burying-ground opposite the towu hall was in use from 1704 to 1810. Before the separation of Northborough another lot was in use, situated near the present Northboiough rotid, on the first cross-road leading to the right after passing the AVe^tborough line. It is now wholly grown up with trees and l)rushwood, l)ut the names of a few of the earliest settlers can still be seen on their stones. The spot ought to be put in order by the joint care of the two towns. The old cemetery iu the village has suilercd some changes of boundary during the years. One building besides the old powder-house has l)Ocn erected on it, originally for the school-house of the first district. Some sixty years ago it was proposed to cut down the oak trees for firewood ; but Capt. Charles Parkman came to the rescue, purchased the trees himself, aud so pre- served them and won the gratitude of future generations. In 1810 a new burying-ground was purchased and laid out in lots; the one \\ hich now lies between South and School Streets. This again proved inade- ijiiaie in 1844, and the present cemetery was purchased. AVithin a few years increased care has been taken of the lots and grounds, and it is becoming a ' more and more attractive spot, as becomes the place of tender memories. In the late War of the Eebcllion Westborongh made a good record. The town held a meeting on the 25lh of April, ISGl, at which $5,000 was appro- priated towards the equipment and drill of a military company. This company, known as the AVestborough Rifie Compan}-, was, after two months of drill, attached to the 13th Massachusetts regiment as Co. K, and was three years in active service. This regiment was for some time retained for picket duty in Virginia. Two men died the first year, and in August, 18G2, in the first important battle, two were killed and four wounded. The regiment was also in the battles of Antietam, Fredericksburg, and Gettysburg. Other AVcst- borough men were, iu 18G2, in the 34th Massachusetts at Alexandria, the 50th at New Orleans, and the 51st at Newbern, The Soldiers' Sewing Circle was organized by 1861, by the ladies, and con- tributed largely in work and money. In 1863 a number of our young men enlisted iu the 56th regiment, and were afterwards, at their desire, transfcri-cd to the 57th. In the terrible fortunes of the Wilderness in May, 1864, thc}'^ suffered severely. Four were killed or mortally wounded, and eleven wounded more or less severely ; two fell into the 490 TOWN OF WESTBOROUGH. hands of the enemy- In July. 18(54, the 13th returned home, haviii<^ tinished its three years' service. The whole number of men from Wcsthoroiigh enlislcd in military service was reported l)y the selectmen in 18GG as 330 ; in the naval service, 1 1 ; numhcr wounded in Ijattle, 40 ; number of deaths, 24. The sum of $23,920 was paid in bounties. In March, 18G6, the town voted to erect the monument, which now stands opposite the town hall, to the memory of the patriot dead. Tlie ecclesiastical history of the first hundred years is inseparable from the town history. Mr. Parkmau's pastorate lasted 58 years, and belongs to the era of greatest ministerial dignity and authority. He was courteous and digni- fied, a good scholar for his time, and exercised full authority, as a New Testament Bishop, over his church. To the last, he claimed a veto power over the action of the church, and in the choice of his successor the church showed some sensitiveness in regard to the sentiments of tlieir candidates upon that point. His sermons are quaint and forcible ; sometimes quite original. For six years after his death, which occuiTcd Dec. 9, 1782, tlie church was without a pastor. On the 14th of January, 1789, Mr. John Robinson was installed, amid great pomp and ceremony. A committee of fifteen, headed by the constaV)le, with his black staff, kept the doors and preserved order ; another committee was appointed "to prop up the meeting-house." Rev. David Sanford, of Medway, and Rev. Nathaniel Emmons, D.D., of Franklin, were among the robed and powdered dignitaries present on the occasion. Mr. Robinson served sixteen years ; but, lacking the courtesy and grace of his predecessor, raised, at length, a serious opposition, aud, after a good deal of difEculty, was bought off from the terms of his settlement, and dismissed in lb07. He remained for some time, however, exhibiting a temper not altogether angelic, and making the pathway of his successor sufEciontly thorny. During the later jears of his pastorate there existed some Methodist senti- ment in town, and a society of that order had enough of an existence here, from 1798 to 1807, at least, to absolve those who brought ccrtilicates of mem- bership in it, signed by an elder, from paying the parish dues, which the law otherwise exacted from all voters. On the 2Gth of October, 1808, Mr. Elisha Rockwood was ordained pastor of the Westb(m)ugh Church. His ordination day was also a high day, with pro- cessions and martial band and crowded house. His pastorate was strongly marked, and its influence is not yet dead. In 1816 the first Sabbath school was organized. In 1820 the creed of the church was first printed, each candi- date for admission having previously read his own statement of belief. In 1823 a "Restoration " society was organized in Shrewsbury, aud a number of "Westborough people attached themselves to it, — partly from the uneasiness of the time, partly to get rid of parish charges. In 1827 the temperance question emerged above the hoiizon, and the church voted to use no more ardent spirit at funerals, nor on ordinary social visits; and to use their influence to prevent « RELIGIOUS ANNALS. 491 its immodenite use. The town, in 1832, followed suit by voting to furnish no more rum to its paupers, except on a physician's prescription. Three years later the selectmen were instructed not to license any one to sell liquor at retail or in public houses. In 1834 the Unitarian controversy was brought to a climax here by the necessity of building a new church. By advice of a council, the church voted, as a body, to separate itself from the First Congregational Society, and to unite with the Evangelical Society, recently formed out of its membership. The First Society retained the old meeting-house, and the others proceeded at once to the erection of a new church upon the present site, which was dedicated Dec. 17, 1834. Mr. Rockwood resigned in 1835, after a pastorate of twenty-six and a half years. The church erected in 1834 is still in use, but in 186!) it was enlarged and remodeled into the present commodious edifice. In 1871 a parsf)nage was erected, partly by legacy from Mr. A. W. Smith. In 1874 the church (■('icbrated its one hundred and fiftieth anniversary ; three of its former minis- tcis, whose pastorates cover most of the time back to 1837, being present and piirticipating. The pastoratesof the church are as follows : — Ebenezer Parkman, 1724-1782 ; John Robinson, 1789-1807 ; Elisha Rockwood, 1808-1835 ; Barnabas Phinncy, l.s;!C, February to October ; Charles B. Kittredge, 1837-1845 ; Henry N. Beers, ],S47-1849; Daniel R. Cady, 1849-185G; Luther H. Sheldon, 1856-18G7 ; Artemas Dean, 1867-1869; Heman P. DeForest, 1871—. The first Congregational Society was organized ]\Iarch 14, 1825, in connec- tion with the old church, and from that time the town ceased to vote the minister's salary. In 1834, owing to division of sentiment in the society, a large number withdrew, and the remainder, retaining the old meeting-house, installed Rev. Ilosea Hildreth (Unitarian) as their minister, on the first of October, 1834. He resigned in April following, and the services in the old meeting-house ceased. The passing of the Boston and Worcester Railroad by the church made it highly undesirable as a place of worship, and in 1837 the house was sold to Luther Chamberlain for $2,000. No services were held after this for some years, although a lot was purchased of N. E. Fisher, on South Street, in 1836, on which to build a new house. In 1847 tliis lot was sold, and, the year following, another was purchased of Draper Ruggles, and the l)uilding of a house commenced. It was finished and dedicated in 1849, and in March, 1850, the society voted to hire Rev. AVm. O. Moseley for six months. In 1860, the society having struggled against adverse circumstances, and being in debt for tiieir house, an efi'ort was made to pay the debt, and by the exertions of members, and the substantial aid of the associations and of churches in Boston aud elsewhere, it was entirely discharged. In 1878 the meeting-house was remodeled inside at considerable expense. The ministers have been as follows : — Hosea Hildreth, 1834-5 ; William O. 492 TOWX OF WESTBOROUGlI. Mosclcy, 1850; Nathaniel Gage, 1851-57; II. A. Cook. 1858; Benjamin Huntoon, 1859; Gilbert Cumraings 18GO-03 ; Geo. N. Ricbartlson, 1864-(;.S ; W. G. Toiltl, 1869-70; J. L. Hatch, 1871; C. A. Allen, 1872-75; C. W. Emerson, 187.5-0; Granville Pierce, 1877; J. P. Forbes, 1878. ' As early as 1796, two Westborough men we're <)aptizctl by immersion in Ghnuncy Pond, and meetings of those who held Baptist sentiments were kept' lip, more or less, from that time ; but it wa's not till September, 1811, that the First Baptist Society was organized. lu 1814 a church of thirtj'-ninc members was gathered. They met for some time in the unfinished second story of the house of ^Ir. John Beeman, on the Flanders Road. Thomas Conant was the first minister. In 1816 a meeting-house was erected at the corner of Ea-t !Main and Lyman streets, now occupied by a greenhouse. In 1835 a now house was dedicated on the site of the present one, and the old one was moved', in winter across the swamps to Woodvillc. where it still stands. After the division of the Congregation.il bod}', the Unitarians worshi[)ped for some time with the Baptists, and helped in the erection of the new church. In 18()() a parsonage was presented' to the society, which was afterwards sold, and the present one ci'ected. In 1868 the present church edifice was erected, the old one being di.-posed of to the RomaA Catholic Church. • The pastors of the church have been as follows : — Thomas Conant, 1814-16 ;• William Bowon, 1831-33; Alonzo King, April to November, 1835 ; Otis Cnii- vcrse, 1836-38; Adid Harvey, 1839-45; Silas Bailey, 1845-47; William L. Brown, 1847-51 ; Nathaniel Ilervey, 1851--53; AVilliam II. Walker, 1855-5s ■. A. N. Arnold, 1858-04 ; J. A. Goodhue, 1864-67 ; C. W. Flanders, 1868-7ii : S. II. Stackpole, 1871-73; B. A. Greene, 1875. Mention has Ijcen made of a Methodist society existing as early as !!'.*•<. That did not survive ; but, in the spring of 1844, the First ^I(!thodist Episco- pal Church was organized, at first as a branch of the church in Holli^tou. lu 1815 and 1846, it was connected with the church in Ilopkinton, their pastor preaching occasionally in the centre school-house, the building now occupied by the Co-operative Union. In 1847 it was again connected with the Ilollis- ton Church, and so remained until 1858, when it was made an independent station, and Rev. J. C. Cromack appointed preacher in charge. Meetings ■were then held in the lower story of the high school-house. The present church edifice was built in 1864. • The pastorates have been as follows: — J. E. Cromack, 1858-9; W. P. Blackmer, 1860-1; S. B. Sweetser, 1862-3; J. B. Bigel.-w, 1864-5; AV. M. Hubbard, 1800-7 ; W. A. Nottagc, 1808-9 ; B. Gill, 1870-1 ; B. Judd, 187l'- 74; J S. Day, 1875; Z. A. Mudge, 1870-78; J. II. Emerson, 1879. The Roman Catholic church, known as St. Luke's, was instituted about 1850. For some twenty 3'oars, it was administered by clergymen from otln r towns, but since then has had I'esident priests. It purchased thj old l>i|)ti>t' meeting-house in 1868, and removed it to its rweseut location. In 1873 it also EDUCATIOXAT. AFFAIRS.' 493 jjiirchased the valuai)Ie lot of land at the corner of Main and Rugbies streets,- iiiit has not yet built upon it. The resident priests have been : Revs. R. J. Donovan, P. Egan, and C. J. Cronin, the present pastor, with liis associate. Rev. M. Kittredgc. Episcopal services were held in 1878 in Henry Hall, but have ceased. The Advent Church was organized and its house of worship erected in 18.59. Rev. O. R. Fassett was installed the first pastor. Rev. J. M. Oirock of Boston supplied the puljjit for. some time, and was succeeded by Rev. II. Dimdy. CHAPTER III. EDUCATIONAL HISTORY — STATE KEFOini SCHOOL — LIBRARY — MECnAXICS' ASSOCIATION SOCIETIES AND OnCANIZATIONS LOCAL PRESS AGRICULTURE AND MANUFACTURES MERCANTILE DEVELOPMENT DISTINGUISHED MEN. The educational history to the time of tiie Revolution has already been sketched. In 1785 a redivision of the "squadrons'" or districts was made, at which time the " Flanders Road " was made a district by itself. Four years later the territory was again divided, and the present arrangement, essentiall}-, was adopted, modified somewhat in 1830. ■ The high school was established in 18.54, but was not graded until 1870. Since then, with annual admissions and prescribed courses of study, it has risen to high rank, and its graduates find no difficulty in competing with 3'oung men from more celebrated schools in the entrance examinations of our oldest col- leges. The other schools have been brought under the same system of grad- ing, and under the charge of a superintendent of schools are becoming more efficient annually. In the last six years seventeen young men have entered college from the high school, some of whom have already graduated with very higii honors. • About 1839 the "Westborough School Association was formed, and a schoDl; established, first in the village and afterwards in the old Wesson tayei'n, refitted for the purpose. This continued for some j'cars, with good success. The same: buildings were used for a private school by Dr. J. II. Hero from ISGG to 1876. The State Reform School for Boys is located on a beautiful slope on the northern shore of Chauncy Pond, commanding a charming prospect. This institution was planned in 184G, the legislature authorizing the purchase of a 6ite, and the expenditure of $10,000. It was intended as a reformatory and 494 TOWN OF WESTBOEOUGH. not a penal institution ; antl this feature of the ijroposa! so commended itself to the late Hon. Theodore L\nian of Brookline that ho at once gave $10,000 towards the undertaking, and subsequently, by gift and legacy, increased his gifts to the munificent sum of $72,500. And all was done t^o quietly, and with such shrinking from notoriety, that it was only after his death that it became known to whoso liberality the benefactions were due. The first building was erected in 1848, at a cost of $52,000, with accommo- dations for throe hundred boys. At the end of the first year there were three hundred and ten inmates, and the buildings were crowded until 1852, when the legislature authorized an enlargement, to accommodate two hundred and fifty more. The number of boys from 1853 to 1850 was between five and six hundred. In the latter \-ear a fire, set by one of the inmates, dcstrojed the larger part of the buildings. The boys were temporarily provided for in Fitch- burg and Concord jails, but as soon as possiiile were returned to West borough. After this time an effort was made for the better classification of the boys. A school-ship was designated for the older and more hardened cases, and three houses were provided on the Reform School grounds, in which the most trustworthy boys were put, twenty-five or thirty in a building, under a family government, and allowed considerable freedom. This arrange- ment greatly aided to make the school, as at first intended, reformatory, and not penal. But in 1871 the school-ships were sold, and the institution here was flooded with a bad element, which threatened to demoralize the whole school. Bars and bolts and penal measures became a necessity. In 1875 the serious difficulty was remedied by the erection of a new building, f(n" which $90,000 was appropriated, and which furnishes the means of classi- fication so essential to the reformatory aim of the school. There arc now three separate departments, — the correctional, the congregate, and the family schools. The two former are in the large buildings, but separated from each other entirely, so that the boys of the two departments only see each other in chapel on Sunday's. The inmates spend fmir hours in study and six in labor, with, of course, hours of recreation, each day. The schools are well furnished and conducted, and the shops provide, to some degree, the means of learning trades, as well as of doing work. The "trust boys" arc employed on the farm and about the buildings. A library of between two and three thousand volumes is provided, and means of moral and religious instruction, and all elevating and refining influences abound. There are now only two hundred and twent3--one boys in the institution ; one hundred and twenty-eight in the reformatory department, twenty-one in the correctional, and sixty-four in the family schools. A line of telephonic communication connects the school with the village. The superintendents have been as follows: William R. Lincoln, 1848-53; James M. Talcott, 1853-57; William K. Starr, 1857-GI ; Joseph A. Allen, 18G1-G7; Orville K. llutchiu- LIBRARIES AND SOCIETIES. 495 sou, 1867-8; Benjamin Evans, 18GS-73 ; Allen G. Shepherd, 1873-78; Luther II. Sheldon, 1878. Ill intimate connection with the history of schools is that of the library. On the 25th of March, 1807, fifteen of the principal men of the place met at Gregory's Inn, and organized themselves into a society called the Union Library Society, for the purpose of establishing a social library. Rev. Elisha Rockwood was president of this society from 1811 to 1828. Its regulations were strict in regard to the care of books and the admission to membership, the admission-fee ranging from $5.50 to $15. Persons not belonging to the society were permitted to use the library for $2 a year. The society met at first five times a year, each member paying a tax of twenty-five cents at each meeting. Mr. Chas. Parkman presented several volumes. The society purchased Eees' Cyclopedia in 41 volumes, and Mavor's Voyages and Travels ; Life of Washington by Bancroft; Life of Washington by Marshall, in six volumes, with atlas; two volumes Silliman's Journal, Silliman's Tour, and Dwight's Travels. In 1839, the books and property of the society were made over to the Mechanics' Association, o:i condition that such books as needed it be rebound, and the memlicrs of the old society be allowed to take books from the library of the Mechanics' Association without fees. The ^lechauics' Association was organized in 1838, and the names of forty- six members are recorded for that year. Its object was somewhat broader than that of its predecessor, including discussions and lectures. A donation of $40 was received from Mr. Geo. Denny, and in 1839 the sum of $86 addi- tional had been raised liy subscription for a library. In 1849 the library con- tained 175 volumes and a catalogue was printed. In 1857 the library was transferred to the town on condition that it should be replenished and main- tained, and $100 was ap|)ropriated for the purpose. Under the charge of the town's committee the lil)rary has prospered and steadily increased, until it now numbers al)out three thousand volumes. For some j'cars the annual dog-tax has I>een appropriated I)y the town for its support, amounting to three hundred and fifty or four hundred dollars. It is open, as yet, only Wednesday and Saturday afternoons and evenings, and its quarters are very restricted, while its reference volumes are practically inaccessible from the lack of a reading and consulting room. But it is well patronized and much prized, and the needed improvements, it is hoped, will not be long postponed. The Westborough Agricultural Society was formed in 1839, and is still flourishing. With discussions, lectures, and for many years an annual agri- cultural fair, it has maintained a lively interest, among others than practical farmers, in agricultural matters, which have always formed so large a part of the town's industries. The Young Men's Debating Society was organized in December, 1870, and 496 TOVfN OF WESTBOEOUGH. is one of the siib!*t:iiili:il cdiicalional institutions of tlie place. Its wcelily dis- cussions, annual courses of lectures, and occasional entertainments give it nioie than a passing value to the town, while to its own nienil)ers it furnishes an admirable field for training and culture. In the autumu of 1878, a Village Improvement Society was started, which has already begun to do a good work in public streets and areas, and in stimu- lating private efforts for the care and adornment of grounds. A Reform Club and a Woman's Christian Temperance Union have been in active existence for several years, and have rendered good service towards keeping Wcstborough what it has always striven to be, — a town of high moral tone, and free, in a good measure, from the open vices and undisguised tempta- tions which so often afflict growing towns. The first local paper, called "The AVestborough Messenger," was published Oct. 13, 1849, by C. C. P. Moody, the Boston printer, who resided here for some time. This lived only a few mouths. In 1855 B. AVinslow Packard, from North Bridgewater, started "The Westborough Sheaf," also printed in Boston, but with an office here. It lived less than a year. In ISGO an edition of ''The Marlborough Journal," with Westborough titles, headings, &c., was published as " The Wcstborough Transcript." This continued aI)out two years and a half, for the first eighteen mouths of which, Mr. Chas. H. Pierce of West- borough was its local editor. In 1866 the first printing-office was established by W. A. Ilcmenway, Soon after Chas. II. Pierce entered into partnership with him, and "The Saturday EveuingChronotypo," the first paper printed and published in the town, made its first appearance. With several chiuiges in proprietorship and a slight change of name, it has continued to the present time, and, under the management of Ilolton & Thurston, enlarged and improved as its prosperity has permitted, has come to raidi well among local newspai)ers, while the printing-office has become an important and remunera- tive industry. Westborough has always been an important agricultural town, from the time when its rich meadows attracted the eyes of the men who felt themselves crowded in Sudljury before 10(50. It has to-duy some 4,500 acres under culti- vation, and an agricultural property of more than a million dollars. Its agri- cultural products were estimated in 1875 at $226,000. Of these, the most important is milk ; of which, in the same year, 451,591 gallons were produced, valued at $76,696. Three companies ship milk from the station to Boston, — the Boston Milk Company, the Westborough Milk Company, and Cyrus Brig- ham & Co. Part of the milk shipped at this point comes from adjoining towns ; but the quantity sent from the depot from April, 1878, to April, 1879, was 800,- 000 gallons, for which more than $98,000 was received. This business has been on the increase for forty years, having in that time trebled in amount. It is estimated that the quantity produced on single farms has doubled in twenty years by superior cullivation. PROGRESS OF BUSINESS. 497 This town has long been more or less a mercantile centre. Tradition h;is it that there was a time when Worcester people made their purchases at the old Parkman store in Westborough, Worcester then being the smaller town. The earliest "store" of which any information remains was kept in a small building erected by Capt. Breck Parkman, son of the old minis- ter, l)ctwcen his father's house and the meeting-house. In one part of this building he resided and the other was the village store. This building yet remains on South Street, and is the residence of Patrick Crouican. In due time Mr. Parkman built a larger house for himself adjoining, and used the whole of the old house as a store. This new residence was subsequently enlarged and raised to three stories, and is now in the rear of D. W. Forbes's sleigh factory. Sulisequcntly Breck Parkman and (Judge) Elijah Brigham built the store on Main Street now occupied by T. L. Mason and others, and removed the business there. When their sons became of age they dissolved partnership, and Mr. Parkman built the old store on the site of " Post-OflSce Block," where he and his descendants continued in business for many years. In 1833 J. A. Fayerweather opened a store in the house now occupied I)y Elijah liurnap, and a j-ear later started a stove and tin shop on the site of the present Unitarian Church. In 1830 he came into the old Parkman store, where he remained, with various changes of firm, till 1858. In 1844 the lower part of J. B. Kimball's brick-shop was converted into a store occupied first by W. L. G. Hunt, now by Iloman & Lunt. In 1850 a store was built on the site of Conlral Block, and soon after S. M. Griggs, associated for many years with Mr. Fayerweather, opened business, where he still continues. Dr. S. G. Ilonry built the old Eagle Block in 18.55, and established the drug business. The building was l)urncd in 1873 and a brick bl')ck erected in its place. In 1853 a biick building, known as Union Block, wis erected by Davenport & Burnap, just across the railroad ; this was burned in 1872 and a wooden one subsequently built on the site. The first steam-power, aside from the small attempt at a thread-factory at Wessonville, was introduced bj' Geo. Denny about 1848, in a mill erected on Brigham Street, afterwards occupied 1)3' R. G. Holmes, and since 1859 by J. B. Kimball & Co. From its small beginnings, business has increased until the present goodly array of stores and blocks around the square and up Main and .Milk streets gives token, even to the passing traveller on the railroad, of a thriving town. The old Parkman store was burned in 1863, and the disaster raised some alarm regarding the inadcquac}' of protection against fire. The fiist engine was pur- chased in 1^38, and was used until 1850, when it was exchanged for the one now used by Chauncj' Compan\-. The burning of the Parkman store resulted in the purchase, in 1868, of a steamer, which has done valuable service since. Again, in June, 1873, Central Block and Ilein-y Block were destroyed, leaving the south side of the square desolate. The buildings were soon rel)uilt, and, VOL. 11.— 63 498 TOWN OF WESTBOROUGH. like the block which takes the place of the Parkm;in store, are much superior to their prcJecessors. And the disastrous scarcity of water, which was the sole cause of the severe loss in 1873, has at length resulted in the introdiu'tion of Sandra Pond water, which is now capable of throwing a stream, without engines, over any business block in the village. The manufacture of sleighs has been carried on for many years to some extent, but, till within about twenty years, only on a small scale. In 18.')7 a large shop was built, and Burnap, Forbes & Co. began to make about five hun- dred sleighs a year. In the next decade Forbes & Fisher carried the iiuniher up to eight hundred. The business is now carried on at this stand b}- 1). W. Forbes, and the annual manufacture is aljout 1,000. There arc three or f our other factories doing considerable business. The census of 1875 rcprescnls the capital employed as $35,950, and the value of goods manufactured at $52,600. The boot and shoe manufacture occupies an important place among the busi- ness interests of the town. J. B. Kimball & Co. began the business here in 1828, building a shop on the land of J. A. Fayerweather, opposite the hou^e of J. W. Blake. A few years later they built the brick shop at the corner of Main and Milk streets. Since 1859 their business has been conducted in its present location on Brigham Street. The pro[)erty is now owned by Messrs. Hunt & Kimball, and the business carried on under the name of Chas. 15. Lancaster. They manufacture at present about 1,200 pairs of boots per day, emplo^'ing two hundred hands. Daniel F. Newton did a large business in the old factory on Cross Street finm 1810 to 18G0, emplf)ying, mosth' out of the Aiu[), from three hundred and fift}' to four hundred hands. Geo. B. Brigham has been connected with the business for some forty jears, and since 18G4 has been at his present stand. The business, now done under the firm-name of T.righam. Gould & Co., amounts to about $300,000 a year, and employ's three hundred persons. Geo. Forbes & Son employ one hundred and fifty hands, and lust year man- ufactured goods to the value of $85,000. Within the present year Crain, Rising & Co. have transferred their business from Nashua, N. H., to this place, and, although not fully under way, are cm- ploying two hundred hands and making 2,000 pairs of shoes a day. The manufacture of straw-goods was commenced here in 18G3, by Bates, Parker &Co., employing at first some twelve men and thirty girls in the fac- tory, and two hundred and fifty sewers outside. Other firms entered into the business soon after, most of whom have ceased to manufacture. L. R. Bates, of the original firm, is now employing one hundred and fifty persons in his fac- tory and two hundred outside. Sewing-machines now do the work formerly requiring twenty sewers. In 1878 the value of goods manufactured by him was $125,000. PERSONAL NOTES. 499 Geo. AV. Smalley commenced the same raamifacturc in 18G5, with $1,000 ("ipital. In 1870 he formed a jjartnership with H. O. Bernard of New York, and the "National Straw- Worlds " hcgan oi)crations. An additional Aictory was erected in 1878, at a cost of $20,000, and the business now amounts to $1,000,000 a 3car, employing seven hundred persons in the factory and as many outside, and manufacturing some 1,750,000 hats per year. In 18G4 the Fiist National Bank was organized, of which J. A. Fayerweatlirr lias been president from the l)eginniug, and S. M. Griggs and Geo. O. Brigham siRcessiveiy cashiers. The Savings Bank, C^'rus Fay, president, was organ- ized in 1800. Westborough, like many of the towns of Worcester County, has sent many of its sons f(n'th to do a wider worli than its OAvn domain could afford. The brevity of this sketch will not admit of detail, and I only mention the names of two, of whom the world knows the history, — Eli Whitney of cotton-gin fame, born in Westborough Dec. 8, 17(55 : and Horace Maynard, late of Ten- nessee, now United Stales Minister to Turkey, who was born here Aug. 30, 1814. This outline of the history of Westborough has reached its limits. It is necessarily incomplete, having been gathered onl}' in the intervals of pressing work (if another kind ; but it is believed to be correct in all important matters. The author wishes to acknowledge his indebtedness to those who have rendered valuable assistance ; especially to the town clerk, Hon. S. JNI. Griggs, for valua- ble and constant aid in collecting material ; to Messrs. E. M. Phillips, D. F. Newton, J. A. Fayerweather, Cyrus Faj', Rev. B. A. Greene, C. H. Pierce, and many others, who have furnished statements on special topics or rendered the aid of personal recollection, family record, or society minutes. The history of Westborough, though meagre in incident and adventure, is a history of steady and substantial advaucemeut, of which, we may trust, the future will not prove unworthy. 500 TOWN OF WEST BOYLSTON. WEST BOYLSTON. BY HORATIO HOUGHTON, ESQ. CHAPTER I. POSITION AND ASPECT OF THE TOWN — CONDITION AT INCORPORATION — VILLA- GES — RAILROADS — SCHOOL - HOUSES — SOCIETIES AND ORGANIZATIONS — RELIGIOUS AFFAIRS — WATER - POWER BUSINESS ENTERPRISES AGRICUL- TURE TEMPESTS. Tins town is situated seven miles from Worcester, by which it is 1)()iin(hMl on the south, on the east by Boyiston, on the north by Sterling, and on the west l)y Hoklen. In territory it is about five miles in length, from north to south, and about three and a half miles in width, from east to west. The natural scener}' of the town is multiform and somewhat romantic in appear- ance, diversified with hills and vallej's, and in all directions interspersed with springs and streams of water, suited to the wants and convenience of its inhabitants. i\Iuch of its soil is fertile, and, with skilful management and culti- vation, amply repays the labor of the industrious husbandman. Its territory was first settled, by white men, about 1720. It was incor- porated as a town in January, 1808, from territory taken from Boyiston, llolden and Sterling. The part from Boyiston originally belonged to Shrews- bury, that from H(jldcn to Worcester, and that from Sterling to Lancaster. At the date of its incorporation it contained 98 dwelling-houses, about 600 inhabitants, 160 ratable polls, and 105 legal voters. There were three school-houses, one church, one cotton-mill, two grist-mills, two saw-mills, one clothier's mill, one tannery, four blacksmith and one cabinet maker shops, two book-binderies, three stores and one tavern. There were si.\ty farmers, ten or twelve mechanics, several laborers, one clergyman, and but one person of foreign birth. The present population is about 2,900, with a valuation in 1879 of $1,021,- 110. Number of polls, 6G2 ; legal voters, 416. The town is composed of several different villages. West Boyiston proper comprises the Central, Valley, Lower Factory, Depot, and the old common LOCAL INSTITUTIONS. 501 villages, and m;ikes about two-thirds of the town. Oakdale covers also the village of Ilarrisville, and makes the other one-third of the town. The Worcester and Nasluia Railroad passes through the town, from south to north, with a station both at West Boyiston and Oakdale. There is a post- ofEce located near each station, designated by the same name as the station. The Massachusetts Central Railroad was laid out and partly graded about nine years ago, passing through the town from east to west. Since that time its condition has remained unaltered, with no immediate prospects of being finished. Should it ever be put in operation it will add much to the facilities of our manufacturers for transportation, as it is located iu nearer proximity to our mills than the Worcester and Nashua road. As the town subscribed to the stock of the Central road the sum of $46,400, it veiy naturally feels much interest in the road being, at some time, put into operation. A town hall is one of the needs of the town, it never having owned one. For the past thirty-four years its meetings have been held in "Thomas Hall," a buildiiiii bclons'insr to the Con<;retton-miIl, but the saw-mill remained, and was in operation until about ten years since. The exact date of the commencement of the cotton manufacture has been lost, but it was probably about the beginning of the century. U[j to ISlil, however, nothing had been done beyond making yarn, ready for weaving by machinery. All the cloth had been woven in looms operated by band, and this had been done in families fir this mill, some of them taking the yarn for many miles to their homes. In 1819, twelve looms were put into successfid operation in this mill, and from that time no doubt the town can date the rapid growth of the cotton manufacture, which is, and evidently will l()i:g be, the leading industry of the town. A company was incorporated for this mill about this time, known as the Beaman Manufacturing Company, and contiiuied in existence until 187?). In 1 847 and 1 848, the first part of the present mills, built of iirick . was erected , and the wirgs were added in 1854. The old mill was cut U[) and moved from the old spot, and finished ofT for dwellings in IS 48. The present mills being located some forty rods l)elow the old ones, the pond was enlarged to more than twice its former capacity, thus covering the old mill-site. Owing to the losses and embarrassments occasioned by the great Boston fire, these mills changed ownership, and a new company was formed in 1874, since then known as the Clarendon Mills. They have the capacity of 10,502 spindles, and give emplojmient to one hundred and fifty operatives. They manufacture duck, sheetings, drillings and counterpanes; and are under the supeiintend- cnce of Mr. George i\I. Lourie, resident agent. These mills are ver}' delightfully situated in what has ever proved to be one of the healthiest parts of the town; and with its pretty pond, buildings and avenues, lined and shaded b}- trees planted more than half a century ago, it strikes the c^'e of the passing traveller as a beautiful and romantic view. This mill, too, has a large steam-engine attached, of sufScient power to rim about half of their machiner}-, which can be used at any time when the water-power may fail. Another item in connection with these mills is worth giving. Miss Parney Underwood commenced work in them over sixt^^ years ago, and has been an MINOR INDUSTRIES. 507 operative nearly every day since ; and at this time, by her active, vigorous appearance, gives promise of being able to perform her duties there for another score of years. Next to the cotton, the n)anuficture of boots has been for many 3cars the leading industry of the town. Aljout 1842, a two-horse team was employed in hauling boot stock from Worcester to this town, where the boots were bot- tomed and returned. Tiiis business continued to increase from j'e;ir to 3'enr, xuilil there were one hundred and si'vcnty-iive cases, or twenty-one himdred pairs of boots thus bottomed per day for Worcester manufacturers, rcquii-ing the use often horses ani fjur men for transporting to and from the city. The present season this part of the business is not as good, there being only about sixty cases per day bottomed for the Worcester parties. lu 1850, a boot manufactory was erected near the depot in this town, making about fifiy cases of boots per day. This shop was operated Iiy different parties, until about five years since. It is now idle. In 1856 a second establishment was bui't on the north side of the river, making from fifty to one hundred cases ])cr day, up to Jan. 23, 18G6, when it was burned. A still larger shop was built the same season, and steam-power was added. Their manufactures were increased, so that over two hundred cases per daj' have, some of the time, been made. In 1878 this company failed ; but soon after, making a compromise wilh its creditors, business was resumed on a smaller scale, and it is now tinning out about fifty cases per daj'. There are aUo in this shop, two hands emploj'cd in manufacturing machine- awls. An establishment for the manufacture of ladies' shoes was commenced at Oakdale about twenty years since, which gradually increased until, in 1870, about twenty hands were employed, using machinery driven by steam-power. This company failed in 1878, and the shop is now unoccupied. The mauufacfure of hand-made oak baskets has been carried on in this town for more than sixty years. Within a few j'ears the making of large baskets for u.se in woolen mills has made the business of more importance than in the time when baskets were only wanted for domestic uses. In former times a two- bushel basket was about as large as any one wished for, but they arc now made to hold twenty or thirtj- bushels, and the manufacture gives constant employ- ment to about ten persons in this town. There is one establishment in which steam-power is used to manufacture stop- motions or warp-stop machines, a well-known machine in use in all cotlon-niills. Their manufacture was commenced about forty years ago, and has emplo\ed about four hands. In connection with this work, the business of making school apparatus was carried on for many years previous to April, 18(i8, when a tire destroyed not only the building, in which the business was carried on, but all the machinery, tools, patterns, and guides for making the same, and when the establishment 508 TOWN OF WEST BOYLSTON. was rc-hiiilt Ibc next 3 ear, only the niaiuifacture of stop-motious was resumed. The maiuil'aclnrc of grain fanning-mills, was, fur many years, carried on in town, giving em|)loymont to from one to three persons. For the past three ycai's none have l)erii made in town. An establishment fur the manufacture of church and parlor organs was com- menced heie about fil'tcen years since, in connection with the manufacture (f what-nots, braikcts, and other ornaments, and a small water-power was used for running the machiuer}'. As this failed at dry seasons of the year, a suiall steam-power was added two or three years since. There arc now in town about eighty farms of from thirt}' to two hundred acres each. On tliese the business of farming, in its various branches, is nearly the exclusive occupation of their owners; while there are about twenty smaller farms, of from ilfteen to thirty acres, whic h occupy the time and attention of tlio owners a part of the time, the business being combined with some mcchanicitl ■work — the largest share, of ])oi)t-bottoming. Of the larger farmers a mtijor- ity sell their milk, the same being delivered from door to door in the town, in which service there are six teams engaged for two or three hours each morning. In Worcester there arc five regular routes supplied by as many teams from this town ; and the large farmers at the north part of the town, deliver ihcir milk to the cars at Sterling Junction for Boston market. But a small amount of butter and cheese is made beyond home wants. The great grain staples of wheat and corn are not raised to nearly as great an extent as they were fifty j-ears ago. Vegetables for Worcester and home market are piobably the leading farm products of the town. From old records we learn "that iu 1808, and previous to that time, not less than three Ihou-^anJ bushels of r^-e were annually produced in the town, wilh about the same quau- tily of corn and oals, and during the winter season the farmers transported considerable quantities of ryo-meal to Boston, about 40 miles, for which they could realize $1.25 per bushel." "At that time, too, large quantities of cider were made and sold for $1.00 to $2.00 per barrel. It was then considered a necessary article for common use, and almost every f iniily used several barrels annually. Most of the large farmers considered a cider-mill to be a necessary appendage to their farm, and would feci themselves greatly deficient if nut in possession of this convenience." There were not less than thirty of these mills iu the town ; now there aio but three. At that time, grafted fruit-trees were unknown ; now but few trees of natural fruit are allowed to grow. On Sept. 23, 1815, occurred what has been termed "the great blow," which was severely felt in this vicinity. It was very destructive in its eflfects, caus- ing great damage to the community in the destruction of fruit and forest trees, buildings and fences. The fruit of all kinds was nearly all blown from iho trees, while both fruit and forest trees were in large quantities uprooted and destroyed. Traces of this tempest arc yet to be seen, showing where such OPENING OF THE REBELLION. 509 trees were uprooted. It wag undoubtedly the most destructive tornado which has ever occurred in New England, as it extended over a large portion of it. About five years since, a whirlwind or tornado, starting somewhere some ten miles soulh-west of us, passed throng!) this town, making a narrow path of a few feet only, tearing up and twisting off trees in its course, several of which were of large size; but forlunatcly it only injured two buildings in its com-se, and those slightly. After passing through this town, it appears to have spent most of its force, but extended some eight or ten miles north- easterly beyond the town limits. CHAPTER II. THE TOW.V IN THE CIVIL WAR — NOTED INHABITANTS — OLD BUILDINGS — FIRES POLITICAL nECORD PECULIAR SCENERY COLD SPRING — VENER- ABLE TREES. On the news being received that Fort Sumter had fallen, and that the presi- dent would issue a call for troops, an informal meeting of the inhabitants was called and held at once in the Baptist vestiy, to consult and advise on the best methods to pursue in the emergency. The meeting was a very full and earnest one, all seeming, as one man, to be ready to meet the needs of the hour Avith all the energy and means at their disposal. There had been in the town for several years one volunteer military company, and some of the time two, and the town had, too, the valuable aid and advice of Gen. E. M. Ilosmcr, who for many j-ears had been connected with our volunteer soldiery, which thus gave the town the advantage of sending many men into the field, in the first years of the war, who had seen something of military movements and drill. A legal town meeting was hebl April 29, 18G1, when it was voted "to appropriate two thousand dollars for the equipment of a military company " ; also to pay the men for any time spent in drill, and to pay to the families of volunteers any aid needed while fathers, husbands or sons should be al)seut in the field. The town also chose an efficient conmiittec to carry out the work. As a consequence, the town was well represented in all the regiments and companies raised in this county, all through the war ; but, owing to the urgency of the calls for troops, men were sent as they could be ready to leave, and thus the town never had a majority of anj' company in the field at one time. It was represented more fully in the following regiments: — The 2.1, l.'ith, 21st, 25tb, 34th, 36lh, 42d, 51st and 57th infantry; the 7th Tght buttery, and 4lh cavalry. 510 TOWN OF WEST BOYLSTON. During the war, the town furnished, in all, two hundred and tifty-two men. Of these, twelve were commissioned officers, and two were surgeons. The commissioned otficers were Maj. Alonzo D. Pratt of the 3tth, Maj. Addison A. Ilosmer of the 28th, Capt. Pelham Bradford and Capt. AVoodbury Whittemore of the 21st, Capt. Charles C. Murdock of the 25th, Capt. George L. Murdock of the 34th, Capt. C. Aldeu Pratt of the 42d, Lieut. AVilliam D. Toombs of the 2d, Lieut. Harlan P. Houghtou of the 34th, Lieut. James Connor of the 42d, Lieut. Albert JL Murdock of the 57th, — all infantry regiments of Massachusetts volunteers, — and Lieut. Elliott F. Brigham of the 4th Mass. cavalry. Of these officers, Lieut. Albert M. Murdock lost his life during t'.ie war. lie was a very promising young man, only nineteen j-ears of age, when he lelt the Highland Military School iu Worcester to join his regiment the last year of the war. This regiment took part in the severe battles of Grant's march on Richmond, in which our young lieutenant showed himself a brave and cool officer. In the assault on Fort Steaduian, at Petersburg, Va., March 2G, 18lJ5, he was almost instantly killed. His Ia>t words were: "Save the flag, boys." All the others of these officers, many of them serving to the end of the war, came home, and are believed to be now living and filling responsible places in life's duties and business. The two surgeons were Dr. Franklin L. Hunt of the 27th Mass., and Dr. Charles A. Wheeler of the 12th Mass. Dr. Hunt was u young man of talent, of a genial disposition, greatly beloved by all who made his acquaintance, and had commenced the practice of his pro- fession in this town, and had been here about three years previous to going to the army. He joined his regiment at Newbern, N. C, in August, 18G2, and while at Washington, N. C, and riding just outside the lines, Nov. 18, 18G2, was fired upon and killed by straggling guerillas. His body was recovered, brought home, and buried at Douglas, his native town. He left an excellent wife and two children. Dr. AVhceler had began practice and located here a few j-ears before joining the army. He first went into the 15th regiment as a volunteer. He was appointed assistant surgeon to the 12th regiment in December, 1862, and served until July, 18G4. He afterwards resumed the practice of his profession, and is now in Leominster, in this county. Thomas Plunkett, color-sergeant of company E, 2l3t regiment, from this town, while bearing the colors of his regiment at the battle of Fredericksburg, Va., Dec. 13, 18G2, had both arms carried away by the fragment of a shell, but, notwithstanding the great loss of blood and the delay iu attending to his wounds, survived (his great injury, and is now — seventeen years after the battle — a comparatively well and robust man, honored and respected by a largo circle of friends. Of the two hundred and fifty-two meu who went iuto the army, about two A STRONG MAX. 511 hiiiKlrccl and ten were, at the time of enlistment, living in the town, while tlic rest were men recruited from otlier places, or were assigned to the town by the State. Of the number who were residents of the town, thirty were killed or died while in the service. During the war, the town paid out for recruiting and other expenses relating to the war, exclusive of State aid to families, the sum of $22,584.90. In the five years of the war, the town paid, as aid to soldiers' families, the folh)wing amounts: — In 18G1, $971.50; 1SG2, $3, GOO; 1SG3, $4,727.90; 18G4, $5,G0ol 18G5, $3, GOO, — making a total for live years of $18,409.40. The ladies of the town were active and earnest during the war. B\- holding fairs, &c., they raised upwards of $1,200 in money, besides sending clothing, hospital stores, &e., at several times, to the army. To Maj. Ezra Boaman is the town indebted more than to any other indi- vidual for its existence as a town, and for its subsequent growth and pros- perity. He was the son of Jabez Bcaman, and was born in Bolton, in October, 173G. Jabez Beaman having purchased a large tract of land in this town, then a part of Shrewsbury, removed here with his funily in 1745. He died iu 1757, when his son, Maj. Ezra Beaman, became proprietor of the homestead, on which he resided until his decease, June 4, 1811, nearly seventy-five years of age. He was twice married, and by his tir^t wife, Tersis Keyes of Bo3-lston, had six children, two sons and four daughters. Maj. Beaman was endowed by nature with a strong mind, possessing a remarkable spirit of enterprise, together with great energy and resolution, which enabled him to devise and execute various schemes and plans, not only for his own benefit and prosperity, but also for the interest of the community around him. He possessed and held a large amount of real and personal esttito, constituting him the wealthiest man in the town. His reputation for judgment was such that, whenever a project of a public nature in which the commimity had an interest was brouglit up for consideration, he was at once consulted as to its importance and practi- cab.ility ; when his judgment and expressed opinions generally had lh3 effect to cause the adoption or rejection of the scheme. To him is attributed the laying out and construction of most of the public roads of the town and vicinity, which will show for all time the soundness of his judgment. The inhabitants of Boylston having decided to build a new meeting-luuise, a difficulty arose in regard to its locati(n), the majority choosing to l)uiid near the old house, while the minority, led I)}' ilaj. Bcaman, insisted that the house should be erected half a mile north-west of the old house. It becoming apparent that no compromise could be effected, the minority .seceded, and built the house on what is now known as the old common in this town ; they first got an act of incorporation as the " Second Precinct" in June, 179G, from the General Court, and in 1808 the}' succeeded in obtaining an act to incorporate the town of West Boylston. At the first town election, held the first Monday iu March, 1808, Maj. Bcamau was chosen as chairman of the 512 TOVrX OF -SVEST BOYI.STON. boQi-d of selectmen and as treasurer. He was also chosen as the first represen- talive of the town to the General Court, and was annually elected to these ofSces for four j-ears up to his death in 1811. The dwclling-hon.se erected by Maj. Boaman in 1764, in what is now the Valk y Village, is still standing, although the main part «)f the building was moved, about eight years since, about thirty rods north of its old location. The L has been altered and adapted into what is now a large and commodious house. This house was built in a thorough and substantial manner, of the best selected materials, and is still in an excellent state of preservation from foun- dation to top, showing that, Avith proper attention and care, it will endure for another century. At the time of its erection, in size, form and appearance, it was probably unsurpassed by anything of the kind in adjacent towns, or even in the count}'. It was for about a century known as the Beaman Tavern, and, during nil of the time, kept by ]\Iaj. Ezra Beaman and his son Ezra, who fol- lowed liis father, and lived in the house until his death, Jul}' 24, 1803, at the age of ninety-two years seven mf)nths. The last Ezra Beaman never married, and in liim passed away the last person of the name in town ; and the large farm so long known as the "Beaman Place" was sold in lots, and passed into the hands of different persons. The main part of the house being too much in the way of one of the town line of streets, was moved as before noted. A large stone watering-trough, which for about half a century had been kept full of pure running water, for the supply of botli man and beast, was moved to the opposite side of tlie street. Previous to this, wooden troughs had been here used for more than a half century. One of the large barns, of eight}' feet iu length, was moved across the road, and fitted up into a block of tenement houses, thus changing the entire appearance of tliis ancient and well-known establishment. Maj. Beaman, during his life-time, set a large number of trees in and along the highways adjoining his lands; and most of these — elms, maples, button- woods, and others, — are now large, majestic trees, adding very much to the beaut}' of the town, and also much to the comfort of the weary traveler. One of the buttonwood trees, set by him when thirteen years of age, is truly an enormous specimen of its kind, being about twenty-two feet in circum- ference. A few years siuce an effort was made to have the name of the town changed to that of "Beaman," and a vote was passed by a large majority in town meet- ing, instructing a committee, chosen for the purpose, to petition the legislature to that clTect. But .some opposition coming up, and the then representative of the name also objecting, the matter was drf)pped. Robert Bailey Thomas, the widely-known founder of the " Old Farmers' Almanac," was born here iu 17G6. He died in 1846, aged 80 years. He married Hannah Beaman of Princeton, who survived him, and died iu 1855, DESTRUCTIVE FIRES. 513 agctl 81. They had no children. Mr. Thomas was a justice of the peace, and siirve3-or, and for many years did most of tlie convcyaiiciog and other legal ■writing for his ncighljors and townsmen. He was a very liljeral and public- spirited man, held many offices of trust in town, being the first town clerk, and was several times sent to General Court, as representative. He founded the "Old Farmers' Almanac" in 1793, and continued to annually edit that widely-circulated journal until his decease. lie left considerable property, which went to nephews and nieces at his death. In the last years of his life he was (he largest confriljutor towards building "Thomas Hall,"aud it was named in his honor. It is still the principal hall in the town, and Ix'lougs to tho Congregational Society, of which iMr. Thomas was a leading member. Erastus B. Bigelow, an eminent inventor, more particularlv of machinery for weaving counterpanes, coaih-lace, and carpets, was born in this town, and lived here until twenty-five years of ago. His first loom for counterpanes was built and set up in the small mill, afterwards burned, near the grist-mill of R. G. Cowee. This loom, however, did not work successfully, but was after- wards perfected on his removal to Clinton. His older brother, Horatio N. Bigelow, was also born here in 1812, and about 183G removed to Clinton, then a jiart of Lancaster, where the genius and business talent of these two men laid the foundation, and built up that now flourishing town. They were the sons of Ephraim Bigelow, himself a prominent business man of West Boy 1st on. Beside the fires before noticed in this history, there have been others which are now enumerated, with dates as near to the time of occurrence as can bo ascertained. About forty years ago, the house of Charles Fairbank ; in 1842, the house of Jlrs. Olive Whitney; in 1818, the house of Luther Ames; in If^.'io, the Valley Hotel and hall of the Sons of Temperance ; about ten ycara since, the house of Charles I. Peirce, and soon after, the house of Cyrus L. Knight; within a few years, the barns of i\Irs. C. C. Cutting, Mrs. Catharine Maguire, Winthrop Snow, and Mrs. Abigail Warren, were burned; in 1878 the houses of Rev. A. J. Derbncl, Alexander Jacobs, and Joseph Jacques; and in 1879, May 28, the house of Mrs. James Fiske ; and Jimo 15, the barn and store-house of L. M. Harris & Co. At the time of the fire which destroyed the mills of the West Boylston Com- pany, the houses of Wm. II. Mason and John Jeflerson were destroyed. Thcso houses stood so far away from the mills, that every one was watching thoso nearer, to prevent their catching from sparks, and these houses had got to burning so strongly on l)eing discovered, that they could not l)e saved. At the first election held in town for State oflicers, in April, 1808, there were 85 votes cast for governor: GG for Christopher Gore, 18 for James Sullivan, and one for Levi Lincoln. From 1840 the following numlier of voles were cast for the presidential candidates : In 1840, Whig vote, IGD ; Democratic, 30; Liberty, 17. In 1844, Whig, 138; Democratic, 37; Liberty, GG. In 5U TOWN OF WEST BOYLSTON. 1848, Whig, 56 ; Democratic, 27 ; Liberty, 201. In 1800, Whig, 5 ; Demo- cratic, GG ; Kcpublicau, 326. In 1864, Lincoln, 287 ; McCIellan, 48. Li 1868, Grant, 279; Seymour, 18. In 1872, Grant, 300; Greeley, 40. In 1876, Hayes, 304; Tilden, 88. In the sonth-cast part of the town, about one mile from the old common, is a curious depression of land, of about four acres, circular in form, known as "Pleasant Valley." Steep bunks, covered by a growth of various species of wood, nearly surround it, giving it the appearance of a natural aniphilheatrc. The area is as nearly level as art could make it, and in the spring and eaily summer, its green carpet of short, wild grass, made it a very pleasing picture to the eye. It has been a place of great resort for parties of pleasure, and to travelers and strangers was ever one of the objects to be shown and visited in West Boylston. It has not wanted for poets to sung its praises, nor for artists to sketch its beauties. Of late years the hand of man has attempted its improvement, for yielding payment for labor bestowed ; but while it may possibly pay its owner more in dollars and cents, its freshness and natural beautj', to the e}'e of the tourist, have departed. No doubt, in the time long past, this was the bod of a pond, and at some time was drained by some undergroinid channel, as in the spring thaws, a stream of water, requiring a jump to cross it, runs nearl}- to this vallev, and then disappears into some underground opening. AI)out a hundred rods from this valley, and on much lower ground, at the edge of the interval land, near the river, is a remarkably clear, sweet, cold spring of water, known as "Cold Spring." The water continually bubbles up through quicksand, which gives the pool a clean, attractive appearance, and water as cold as ice-water; and this it continues to do through all the seasons of the year, with about the same volume of water. On the road below the Clarendon Mills, towards Clinton, there appears a venerable oak tree, worthy of mention in this history. It stands within the limits of the highway, and has ever had the same venerable appearance since tradition has given its history, and no doubt it is several centuries old. In the laying out of live hundred acres of land to John Davenport, by the then colo- nial authorities, early in the last century, this tree was made the starting-point, and spoken of as a large oak. Its present measurement is, at the ground, twenty feet seven inches; at six feet from the ground, fourteen feet si.x inches in circumference. SITUATION OF THE TOWN. 515 WESTMINSTER, BY JONAS MILLER. CHAPTER I. SITUATION AND CIVIL ORIGIN — FIRST SETTLERS — INDIAN DANGERS — SEVERE ECONOMY FRENCH WARS STRUGGLE OF THE REVOLUTION LINES OF TRAVEL DESCRIPTION OF SURFACE — SUMMER RESIDENTS — RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES EDUCATIONAL PROVISIONS ACADEMY. Westminster is situated in the northern part of the county. It is bomulecl northerly by Ashbiirnham, easterly l>y Fitchbiirg and Leominster, while to ihe south and west lie Princeton, Hubbardston and Gardner. There are three outlying villages. South and North Westminster and Wachuscttville. The name first given it was Narragansett No. 2, from the fact that it was one of (he grants made by the General Court in 1728, to reward the descend- ants of the soldiers who, fifty years before, had engaged in the disastrous war with the Narragansett Indians. The comjiany to whom it was assigned, — one hundred and twenty in number, — imnuHliatcly met and appointed committees to lay out lands for mceting- hcnise, training-field, burning-grounds, school-houses, roads aud a lot for the minister, i)ut the profnietors themselves do not seem to have been desirous of leaving the comforts of civilized life near the metropolis. They erected a house for general use in 1734, built a saw-mill in what is now Wachuscttville, and at last oU'ered a bounty of forty dollars to every family settling iu the township under certain conditions; yet it was not until 1838, that the first settler, Capt. Fairbanks Mooro, came to the place. Others followed slowly. The history of the time succeeding, until 1750, is one of privation and suilcring. One of the earliest settlers writes thus: — "A howling wilderness it was, where no man dwelt; the hidcfms jells of wolves, the shrieks of owls, the gobbling of turkeys and the barking of foxes was all the music we heard ; all a dreary waste, exposed to a thousand difficulties." The first meeting-honse was erected in 1739, in "Meeting-house lot on the hill," now the public common. With the exception of the building of a grist- 516 TOWN OF WESTMINSTER. mill, no public work of iinportaiice was undeitaken until 1742, when, owing to increasing fear of attacks from Iniliaus, ten forts were erected in various parts ijf the town. They were tirmly built of square timbers after the manner of log-houses, while some were further strengthened by stockades. A sentinel was posted in each fort by night, and the soldiers patrolled the township I)y day. It was probably owing to this vigilance that they so generally escaped attacks from their enemy. It is related, however, that one William Bowman was mowing near one of the garrisons, about one-half mile west of the village, when he discovered Indians lurking in the woods at a point which cut him off from his fort. With great presence of mind he turned and mowed a long swarth to the other end of the field, away from this ambushed enemy, then, dropping his scythe, ran for Graves' fort, closely followed by his fleet-footed pursuers. On his reaching the fort in safety, the alarms were given, messengers despatched and troops sum- moned, but the Indians escaped, and the settlers thereafter pursued their labors unmolested. From 17")0 (o 17G0 the settlement increased much more rapidly. In 17.59 Narragansett No. 2 was incorporated as a district under the old English name of Westminster. The people entered at once upon the consideration of the then essential institutions of every well-regulated town, namely: a school-house, a pound, a supply of ammunition and the inevital)le stocks. History rec(>rds. however, that the latter wei'c not built for many years. Following this was :i season of comparative prosperity. Rigid economy was practised, the i)urchase of superfluities discountenanced, and idleness regarded as a (M-imc. Nothing better shows the spirit of the times than the following resolve, ungrammatical though it be, which the town unanimously passed in the year 17(58:— "The District of Westminster, taking into consider.atiDn the sinking state of the Province, arising through the manifoM extr.ivagancos of the inhabitants ; in the great neglect of inchistry, in still greater increase of our misery, in the exlrav.igaiit e.^jpense of its inhabitants, in the purchase of superiluities ; ami fully sensible of the absolute necessity of industry and frugality, in order to save us from impending woe, to save our wealth, and to place us in a state of indopendoncj-, do cheerfully and unanimously resolve, that from and after the first da}- of April next, we will not purchase any super- fluities, and that we will take every proper method within our power to encourage industrj- and manufactory in our District; f jr we are fully sensible that idleness has a tendencj' to impoverish any community, and when attended with extravagancy brinj^ immediate ruin ; will therefore by all possible and lawful means, Lake every method within our power to encourage indnstr}' among ourselves, and take this opportunity to give it in direction to our Selectmen, to take special care that all idle persons amoni: us be kept at some lawful business, and that the laws of the Province in that regard lio duly observed." The French war gave the people no great uneasiness, and, as they were OLD-TIjME HARDSinPS. 517 a small settlement, they sent but few troops to prosecute the war upon the frontier. The following traditions are handed down, however. In the call for men in 1758, Richard Baker, AViiliam Edgcll, Thomas Dunster and others, entered the service for one year, and marched first to Albanj', then to Lake George. At the expiration of their term the commtuiding officer refused to discharge them, — whereupon they resolved to return home regardless of con- sequences. As it was midwinter, they made themselves snow-shoes, and arranged for an immediate departure. The officers held a council, and decided that the company, thus resolved to leave, should the next day be put under guard. Upon hearing this decision they determined to avoid humiliation, and eaily the next morning started for jNIassachusetts with such provisions as they could gather np. Their [lalh la}- through a trackless forest over the Green Mountains. They lost their way and suUercd most incredibly from the depth of the snow, the severity of the weather, and the want of provisions. For days they were without food, and even killed and ate a dog they found stray- ing in the woods ; and it was said that, at one time, they resolved to cast lots to see who should be slain to save the rest from starvation. But some fortu- nate circumstances saved them from such a dire necessity. They at last found one of the head branches of the Dcerfield River, which led them to Coleraine, and thence they reached their homes in safety; — an exploit which did not exhibit so much a spirit of obedience, as it showed the power of endurance, and the wonderful hardiness of our forefathers. At the time troops were stationed in northern New York, twelve men, under Nicholas Dyke of this place, afterwards colonel in the Revolution and one of Gen. Washington's body-guard, were detailed to gather wood for the camji- fires. As they had but a short distance to go their arms were left behind. AVhen at the point of returning with their loads, they were surrounded l)y twelve or fifteen French soldiers and captured. With arms pinioned behind them, they were marched towards their enemy's head-quarters. Arriving at noon at a stream of water, the guns were stacked .'uid preparations made for dinner. It did not accord with the Frenchmen's ideas of politeness to cat without sharing the meal ; so the prisoners were unbound, and by signs, — one party not knowing a wood of the other's language, — were invited to partake. As the Frenchmen did not appear to keep a very sharp watch. Col. Dyke in a muttering tone of voice told his men to spring for the gnus when he gave the order. At the word all started up, secured the most of the arras, and after a sharp struggle took all but one of their quondam captors prisoners. Tlioy marched them back by the same route they had just taken, and arrived in camp in time to get the supply of wood before nightfall. At about the time of the incorporation of Westminster as a town, in 1770, tlie trouble with Great r)ritain became the abs()rl)ing theme. The people of the town, though fift}' miles inland, were always ready to respond to any demand made of them. In 1773, they auswered the call of the committee of corre- 518 TOWN OF WESTMINSTER. spondence of Boston as follows: "Wo shall at all times lieaillly join with you in all lejial measures for the recovery of those inestimable rights and privileges wrcsleil from us, and for securing those that remain ; for we are sensible that should we renounce our lil)crty we should renounce the equality of men, the rights of humanity, and even our duty to God and man." They forbade the constables to pay the Province tax to the royal treasurer ; they adopted the rcconimcndations of the Continental and Provincial Congresses ; they agreed to siipiiort their share of the poor of Boston, who were reduced to penury by the shiilting up of that port; and, in 177G, they voted unanimously that if the Colonies should be declared independent of Great Britain, " they would sup- port them in the measure with their lives and fortunes.'' Their word was good, for at the first call three companies were raised, and, commanded by Capts. Elisha Jackson, John Estarbrook and Noah Miles, immediately marched for the scene of action, and more or less of the West- minster men were in almost ever}' campaign of the war. They were at Lex- ington, at Bennington, and particularly in the campaigns in Rhode Island. The history of the time during the war exhibits a long-continued, persevering struggle. The furnishing of a certain quota of troops and supplies for the army, the poverty and destitution of the people, and the depreciated state of the paper mone}", became burdens that pressed upon them most grievously. Yet the}' bore up under all, and the town graduall\' increased in wealth and Ijojiulation, until in 1800 it numbered about thirteen hundred. AVestrainsler was situated on the old post road from Brattlcborongli to Bds- ton, and an important line of travel passed througli the town. The stages from Brattlehorough and Greenfield ran daily in both directions. The teams of the country merchants wended their way to the metropolis for a sup- ply of West India goods and other merchandise. The w.igons of the farmers carr^'ing their produce "down to Boston" lumbered through the street, and made it a busy thoroughfare. During the summer and fall the scene at the old tavern was a livcl}' one, as sometimes forty or fifty teams "put up" for tlie night. Then law^'crs, doctors, ministers, farmers, merchants, teauisteis and travelers met as they rarely meet nowadays. The opening of the Cheshire and the Vermont and Massachusetts railroads diverted travel from the town in a great measure, as the depot is two and one- half miles from the centre of the town. Since this time the population has decreased somewhat. In 1855 it mimbered 1,979. At the last census the number returned was about 1,700. Though not noted as a business centre Westminster is a favoiilo place of resort in snnmier. It is elevated eleven hundred feet above tide-water, the highest of any town in the county, excepting Princeton, and lies upon the ridge of land stretching between the Monadnoek and Wachnsett mountains. This gives the town some of the pleasantcst natural scenery. The view from Graves' Hill is scarcely equaled in the State. Hills and vallejs, blue sheets of RELIGIOUS HISTORY. 519 water unci winding streams, green fields and dark pine forests, nnmerous farm- liouses and half a dozen thriving towns and villages, make up the landscape as far as the eye can reach, while thirty miles away old Monadnock stands like a watch-tower in the northern horizon. The scene does not present the wildness of the Berkshire Hills, nor the grandeur of the White Mountains, but the quiet, peaceful beauty peculiar to the New England town among the hills. The accommodations at the hotel and among the larmers are ample, and every returning summer brings many visitors from various parts of the coun- try- Some have come so regularly that their faces are confidently looked for every midsummer, and often whole families find new homes among us for a few months, and enjoy the quiet and the new sights to be found in the country. Not only are the drives remarkably varied, furnishing a different ride for every day in the week, but some of them interesting of themselves and to be remem- bi red for a lifetime. Noticeable among these is the one to the Wachusett ^lountain ; by the shortest route, the one through Evereltvillc and by the new cairiage road upon its northern side, a ride of only an hour and a half is reijuircd to reach its summit. At the base of the mountain lies Wacluiseft Lake, near whieh a fine park has been fitted up for the accommodation of pIcMsure excursions. Every summer the shores of the lake arc dotted with till' tents of tourists and pleasure-seekers "camping out." The general health of the inhabitants is remtu'kably good. The water is [)ure and the air salubrious and invigorating. The records of mortality show many cases of noteworthy longevity, two persons, at least, having reached the age of one hundred years. Few towns of the same population can present as long a li^t of aged people. This year, at the old folks' picnic held in the Wachusett Park, it was found that 130 residents of the town were over seventy jcars of age. There arc three religious societies in the town — the Congregationalist, Baptist and Universalist. The early history of the former is interwoven with the early history of the town. As before mentioned, only two years after the first family settled the meeting-house was built. In 1742 the first regular ])reaclier, Rev. Elislui ]\Iarsh, was ordained, at a salary of $150 a year, in addition to the land to which he was entitled by the grant. After a jjastoratc of fifteen years he was dismissed. Rev. Asaph Rice was the longest settled pastor, remaining connected with the church for fifty years. He died mourned and beloved by all. His colleague and successor, Rev. Cyrus Manu, enjoyed a prosperous pastorate of twenty-six years. Ho is described as a clear, solid and logical preacher, always presenting earnest, well-studied and able, though to a large extent doctrinal sermons. He was thoroughly orthodox, and did much to strengthen the church. Since Mr. Mann's dismissal in 1841 quite a uiunljcr of pastors have been settled, of whom limited space forbids mention. The pre?eut membership is about two hundred. Rev. C. E. Coolidge is pastor. The church has had three mceliug-houses, two upon the hill, and the present one, dedicated iu 1837, situated in the village. 520 TOWN OF WESTMINSTER. The Baptist Society was organized in 1827. It cousisted of thirty meml)ers who hid previously worshipped with the church of the suiue dcuomiiiatioii in Princeton. In 1829 the old hrick meeting-liousc was erected near the north- eastern shore of Westminster Pond. A year and a half later Ilcv. Applcton Morse was ordained pastor. At the end (f nine months he was succeeded i)y Rev. Amasa Sanderson, and ho I)y Revs. D.ivid Wright, Caleb Brown, George D. Felton, and others. The present house of worship, situated ou the streci, was dedicated in 1864. In 1871 the vestry, spire, hell and clock were added. Number of members, one hundred. Rev. Joseph Barber is pastor. In 181G the Society of Universal Rcstorationists was formed, and having erected a meeting-house, Rev. Levi Briggs was installed pastor in 1822. Two years later Rev. Charles Hudson took pastoral charge of the church, and con- tinued this relation until 1842, eighteen years. lie was a stirring citizen as well as an able preacher, served six years in the Legislature, and repre- sented the district eight years in Congress. Revs. Paul Dean, Varniun Lincoln, Quincy Whitney, and others, have acted as pastors. The first ai)[)ropriation for educational purposes was one of $20, made in 1757. It was invested in sustaining a moving school, whose sessions were held in private houses in various pans of the town. The growth of the schools kept pace with the growth of the town. At first one was sufficient for all, then five districts were made and houses built, and now there are twelve in various parts of the town, with scholars numbering about 2G8. In 1829 the Westminster Academy was established, and under the care of excellent instructors enjoyed a long season of prosperity, calling scholars from all parts of the country. At one time the attendance numbered nearly two hundred, and pupils were fitted for Amherst, Harvard and Dartmouth Colleges. But owing to the founding of numerous high schools in adjoining towns, interest in it gradually declined, and in 1872 the academy building was bought by the town and fitted up as a high school. CHAPTER II. OCCUPATIONS — MANUFACTURERS — BANK AND OTHER INSTITUTIONS — MILITARY ANTI-SLAVERY FEELING ACTION ON THE OPENING OF THE REBELLION GEN. NELSON A. MILES OTHER CITIZENS OF EMINENCE PROFESSIONAL MEN. The laiger part of the people of Westminster are engaged in farming, for the micven, hilly surface has a good soil, well adapted to the growing of h variety of important crops. The manufactures of the town were once varied and (initc extensive, for FIRST INDUSTRIES. 521 tlicrc was a time when the people aiaile almost everything they used, ami home iiKlustrics, and those alouc, were encomagcd. Tlie 6rst mill of any kind was the saw-mill, built at Wachusettvillc in 1736. As the number of inliabitants increased there were built various kinds of shops and mills to meet the demand of the times. Phineas Leonard & Brother had a forge and trip hammer. A earding-maehiiic and fulling-mill was built at the "Narrows." Potash was made in as many as three places, while the town at one time had not less than ten blacksmith's shops. Cider-mills were found in almost every neighborhood, and the maimfacture of these, with their ponderous wooden screws, gave several of the townspeople employment during the autumnal months. The I'armers turned the sod with home-made iron-shod ]5lows and shovels. Pails and all kinds of cooper's ware then in use were made, not only for their own families, but for sale in other places. Tradition has it (hat the tirst chair ever made in the place — one of the right-angled, flag-bottomed kind — was made by Nathan Wheeler, Avhilc Almon Derby is believed to have manufactured tlio first modern wood-seated one, in a shop by the outlet of the Westminster Pcjnl. Above the house at present occupied by Mr. James Cruce can be seen the foundations of a mill which was built and used for the manufacture of linseed oil. At one time there were two tannt rics in the centre, and one in the village to the north, or "Scrabble Hollow," as it is called. Westminster was one of the first places in the State in which the straw-braid business was carried on. It soon became one of the most important industries of the place, giving employment to the people in their homes, and bringing them from fifteen to twenty thousand dollars per year ; but the business has now entirely ceased iu this vicinity. At present the principal manufactures are i)aper and chairs. The paper- mills are situated in Wachuscttvilie, and have done a large business for many years. They are owned by Franklin AVyman. The principal chair factories are tho^e of Artemas jMcrriam, in South Westminster, and of Nicholas Brothers, in the village proper. Other factories, in which some business is done, are owned by George Smith, Caleb Merriam anil Edw^ard Noyes. Mr. Lombard, at Scrabble Hollow, also has a shop for the manufacture of chairs, buttons, combs, &c. Damon & Bin-nham have one of the largest cracker bakeries in the country, sending their teams with " Westminster bread " to almost every town and village within twenty miles. Preston Ellis has built up an extensive business in making first-class preserves, and supplies leading hotels iu Boston, Provi- dence and Worcester. The Westminster National Bank was established iu 1875, with D. C. Miles, president, and William Mayo, cashier. Capital, $100,000. There arc four stores and a post-office in the village, and post-ofl5ces at South Westminster and at the depot. The grist-mills of Adams & Giles and of E. II. Merriam do a good business iu their line. VOL II.- 06 5-22 TOWN OF WESTMINSTER. A lodge of Good Templiirs, with a large nicmber.sbip, is sustained. There arc two firc-ciigiiics, one stationed at the Centre and the other at Wachusclt- ville, the former of wliich is manned hy a well-organized and etHcicnt eompany of sixty men. A brass band was formed in 187G, and is now in a flourishing condition. When it was customary to drink intoxicating liquors at weddings and funerals, ordinations and social gatherings, the people of Westminster followed the fashion. The lirst open action taken in the matter was the pul)lic reading of Dr. Lyman Beecher's six sermons on intemperance, in 1828. A great triumph was achieved when the Academy building was raised without liquors. In 1829 the first Temperance Society was formed, which became a part of the American Temperance Society, with principles of total abstinence. The subject has been agitated ever since, and a strong auti-rum sentiment has been created and sustained, so that at present there is no licensed place for the sale of liquors in the town. The Westminster Hotel, Merrick Pufler, proprietor, is a strictly temperance house. Westminster has always taken great interest in hor military organizations. After the war of the Revolution, two companies, called the North and South militia companies, were formed. In 181G the Eifle (Company succeeded these, and until 1840 was noted as one of the best drilled and most prosperous organizations in this vicinity. This, in turn, was succeeded by the Westmin- ster Guards, which disbanded a few years before the war of the Reliellion. From the close of the war a good company was maintained until 187.5, when the General Court voted to disband thirty-two companies ; and it is worthy of note that though it came in the list, it was the last one sacrificed. When the subject of slavery was first agitated, like the majority of inland towns, Westminster was indilferent, but soou wheeled round and espoused the cause of the oppressed. In 1845 William Llo)-d Garrison gave a number of lectures, which aroused great feeling on the subject. He introduced his paper, the "Liberator," and though few agreed fully with his sentiments, yet he established an intense anti-slavery feeling. The leaders in this movement were Dea. Edward and George Kendall, Dea. Joel Merriam, Hon. Joel Merriara, Jr., William Ileywood, Dea. Robert Peckham, Dea. J. T. Everett, George Miles, Benjamiu Wyman, Alfred Wyman, Calvin Whitney, and others. Among the lecturers were Abl)y Kelly, the Jlisses Grimke of South Carolina, Sally lloliy, a Mr. Goodyear, and Henry B. Stanton. A society was soon formed, and the house of Dea. Peckham became the anti-slavery headiiuarters. Often visiting speakers stopped there by the week at a time, and often was the fleeing slave there sheltered and fed, and aided on his way towards Canada. The war began, and found no military organization in town. Instead of waiting for some one to come forward and raise a company, volunteers immediately enlisted in adjoining towns. Never was the exhibition of patriotism more marked. Sons parted from mothers, husbands from wives and families, and GEN. NELSON A. MILES. 523 fiioiids from friends. Westminster gave her best blood — her dearest treasures. One hundred and three volunteers enlisted, the greater part entering the 2d, ].'i.h, 21st, 25th, 31st, .'JGth and 5.')d regiments. Seventeen went as substi- tutes, making a total of one hundred aud twenty from a town wliose registered voters numbered between four and five hundred. During all the four years she kept more than her full quota of men in the field, aud has the honor of having contributed as many soldiers in proportion to the number of her inhabitants as any town in the Union. As the Westminster men were so scattered, few gained commissions. Joseph E. Rice, killed at Chantilly, held the ofEcc of colonel ; Cyrus K. Miller, an Illinois volunteer, was first lieutenant when he died near Vicksburg ; while Amos B. Holden and A. E. Drury held the position of first lieutenant at the close of the war. Thirty-four of the AVcstminster men never returned. Of these quite a large proportion died of starvation in Andersonville and Libby prisons. Li 18fi8 a beautiful granite monument, pleasantly situated in the centre village, was dedicated in memory of the fallen heroes. The upper rooiu of the Town House also has been fitted up as a memorial hall, where the pictures of nearly all the lost are placed. A post of the Grand Army of the Republic was established in 18(>8, with the name of "Post ()9, Jos. E. Rice Encampment," aud numbering about thirty members, sustained by the resident veterans. Of the former residents who enlisted, Charles E. Cummings bi'came a colonel in command of Vermont volunteers; and John Hudson held the office of lieutenant-colonel. The man M'ho gained the greatest fame and rose to the highest raidi of all the sons of Westminster was Maj. Gen. Nelson A. Miles. Gen. Miles was born in the easterly part of the town, near Wachusettvillc. Receiving a fair education, he entered a store in Boston when seventeen years of age, aud remained there until the breaking out of the war. He accepted the position of first lieutenant in the 22d Mass. Volunteers; left Boston on the 1st of October, 18G1, and joined the Army of the Potomac near AVashiugton. He was soon detailed on the staff of Gen. Casey, and afterwards to the staff of Brig. Gen. O. O. How- ard, and served in that position initil the army moved in 18G2. He was with tlie brigade when the army advanced to Manassas and Rappahannock Statioa, and was at the siege of Yorktown and the battle of Williamsbiu-g. At the battle of Fair Oaks ho was favorably mentioned for meritorious conduct. At one time, when the 81st Penn. regiment was without a field ofiiccr, and was falling back, he rallied them under a heavy fire, regained the lost groimd, and f'uccd the enemy to retreat with their dead and wounded left on the field. He was there wounded in the foot, aud his horse shot imder him ; but, mount- ing another, he remained on the field until the battle was over. Declining a furlough, he remained on duty. Ho acted a conspicuous part in the battle of Charles-city Crossroads, being highly complimented for his gallant acts. At 524 TOWN OF WESTxMINSTER. Malvern Hill he a^ain rendered distinguished service during the day, and at the close of the hattlo lirought a force of artillery, which poured showers of grape and cauistor into the enemies ranks with great execution, and fired the last shot on that memorable day. He rose in rank rapidly : after the battle of Fair Oaks, acting as adjutant-general, then raised to the ofBce of lieutenant-colonel of the 61st N. Y. Volunteers, and after the battle of Antie- tani, being made colonel of a regiment. At the close of the terrible struggle at Fredericksburg ho was recommonded for the position of brigadier-general. In the battles of the Wilderness, ho sustained his character for heroic command; and after the battle at Reams' Station, in which his division saved the corps, he was recommended by Generals Grant, Mead and Hancock, for brevet mnjor- general. All through the bloody conflict of the Potomac Army, Gen. Miles displayed the (pialilies of a veteran commander. He was four times wounded, and when carried from the field of Chancellorsville, none thought he could live; but after reachiuii home he rapidly recovered, and hastened back to his command. At the close of the war he was made m-ijir-gcneral, — the youngest one in the army. In the words of the historian of Massachusetts in the Rebellion, whose sketch of Gen. Miles we have followed, we can say that, "though he may not claim the years of many who have been raised to the same rank, Massachusetts has not a man whose record will exceed his in the history of the war of the Rebellion." Enlisting in the regular arm}', he was assigned to the command of Fortress Monroe, the largest fort in the United States, and where Jefferson Davis was then confined. Although he achieved such success in the war, he has won greater fame since. After raising a colored regiment in Raleigh, N. C, he was assigned to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. At Gen. Custer's death he was ordered to tako that lamented soldier's place, and spent a year arranging Indian afl'iirs in the Indian Territory. Outbreaks occurring in the north, he was called to Fort Kcough on the Yellowstone River, and has since then made that his head- quarters. Here he has earned the name of being the most successful Indian fighter in the arm}'. His tei'rible fight with Sitting Bull and his capture of Chief Joseph are fresh in the minds of all. His wonderful success has been owing to a peculiar skillfulness in the man- agement of his forces, coupled with a daring and fearlessness in danger, whirh have made him the admiration of friend and foe. Never hesitating to pi ice himself at the head of his men, he seemed to compel those around him to perform whatever he demanded of them ; and throughout all his career he has shown himself to be a man of whom any town might well be proud. Westminster has contributed many men of mark to professional and politi- cal life. To the pulpit she has given Rev. John Miles, for man}- years settled over a parish in Grafton, Rev. Asaph Merriam, and Kcv. Charles Kendall, son EMINENT MEN. 525 of Edward Kciulall, Esq., Revs. Joseph Peckbam, and Franklin Moiriam. Eev. Joseph Wood, son of Abel Wood, Esq., was graduated with honor at Williams College, with the class of 1815 ; entered tlic ministry, and labored with success in the South till his death in 18.")7. And we would not forget to mention in this connection two noble and devoted women, who, having conse- crated their lives to the service of Christ, voluntarily exiled themselves from the pleasures and comforts of home, to labor as missionaries under the shadows of heathendom. Myra Wood, daughter of Abel Wood, Esq., married Rev. David O. Allen; and in 1827 they went out together as missionaries to Bomba)', where she died in 1831. Mary Sawyer, granddaughter of Rev. Asaph Rice, married Rev. William C. J;iekson, a missionary to the East, and spent several years in Asia Minor, at Trebiz^nd and vicinity. Among teachers who were either natives of this town or were partially educated here, ma}' be mentioned A. Hoklcn IMori-iam, J. Russell Grant, "William S. Ileywood, Francis S. Ilcywood and I'oitcr P Ileywood, William F. and Edward E. Bradhur}', Prof. Erastus Everett, a graduate of Dartmouth College, and now a surcessful teacher in Brooklyn, N. Y., Rev. Prof. Abel Wood, who for some years was connected with Jleriden Academy, N. II. ; and many females, who have been employed as teachers in this and distant parts of the country. Westminster has given to the medical profession such men as Dr. John White, who practised medicine in his native town for more than twenty years; Dr. Cyrus Mann, son of Rev. Cyrus l\Iann ; Dr. Joe! W^-man, a noted physi- cian of South Carolina; Dr. John L. White, who has a large and successful practice in Illinois; Dr. George Miles, also of Illinois; and Dr. Edwin Buttrick, a graduate of Hamilton College, Clinton, N. Y., a prominent member of the medical fraternity in the same State. Dr. Flavcl Cutting, who practised medicine here many years, was born of Westminster parents. A large number of business men in all parts of the couutry originated in Westminster. The Bigelow Brothers, jewellers, Boston ; the Cowec Brothers, Troy, N. Y. ; George and Edward Whitney, Worcester; George Wood of California; Hiram Brooks of New York City ; John Edgcll aud J. W. Mooro of Gardner, aud many others, were once Westminster men. 526 TOWN OF WINCHEXDON. \ WINCHENDON. BY REV. ABIJAH P. MARVIN. CHAPTER I. GRANT AND rROPRIETORSIIIPS — LOCATION AND SURFACE — EARLY IIARDSIIirS — PATRIOTIC SPIRIT THE REVOLUTION THE INSURRECTION — SCHOOLS — EDUCATIONAL ADVANCEMENT ACADEMY AVAYS AND BRIDGES PUBLIC TRAVEL AND TAVERN BUSINESS — CARE OF POOR — LOCAL TEMPERANCE ACTION — THE LAST OLD SLAVE. In the order of incorporation, Wincbcndon was tlic tliirty-fiftli town in the county. The grant of land, from wliich it took its origin was made by the General Court, June 10, 1735, to Lieut. Abraham Tilton and others. These grantees were descendants or heirs of certain officers and soldiers who were in the famous expedition to Canada in IG'JO, under command of Sir "William Pepperell. The members of that ex[)edition, in after years, sought additional compensation according to what appears to be a settled policy in our country, and the claim was allowed by the government. Many of the able-bodied men of Ipswich were in the service, and the grant ,was therefore styled Ipswich Canada, to denote the grantees and the design of the grant. Nearly all the soldiers in the expedition were dead by the year 1735, but their children, or other heirs, and the persons to wdiom claims had been sold, amounted to sixt}', avIio became the proprietors of the tract of land forming the town of Winchendon. The tract was laid out in sixty-three equal shares, after reserving one share for the drA minister, one for the use of the ministry, and one for the support of schools. The grant was six miles square. Near the centre of the tract was a reserve of a few acres for the site of a meeting-house, for a burying-yard, and a training- field. The conditions of the grant were that the grantees were to be on the "premises, and have each of them a house of eighteen feet square, and seven feet stud at the least ;" in addition, each right or grant was to have six acres of land fitted for mowing, and the people were to build a meeting-house and sctllo a learned and orthodox minister, all within five years. The conditions were not fulfdled, but efforts to that end were immediately made. In 1736, Col. Thomas Berry, Capt. John Choate and Capt. John IIol)son, " went up the couii- EARLY SETTLERS. 527 try," located the township, and fixed the bonndaries. And this was all. The peace which had prevailed several years after the close of the war with the eastern Indians, had been favorable to the formation of new settlements, and some towns had been founded ; but in 1739 the war between England and Spain began, in which France soon became involved. In consequence, the Indian allies of France were roused to action against the feeble colonists of New England, and new settlements were discouraged for several years. In the meantime a few adventurers had been on the ground, and, perhaps, put up a small meeting-house and built a mill ; but there was nothing wliich could properly be called a settle- ment iirevious to 1751, the "old French and Indian war" having been brou'ifht to a close. In 1752 the proprietors voted $100" old tenor," equal to about fifty-four dollars in silver money, to each one of the first ten men who should by the first of the next November, build a house and settle a family in the township. This vote was passed Jan. 29, 1752, and as the year up to this time began in March, the next November would be in 1753. Settlers immediately occupied the place. One of the first was Col. Thomas Berr}', who styed two or three years for the encouragement of others, and then returned to Ipswich. Lieut. Abraham Tilton was on the ground, and did much in effecting the settlement. The first permanent resident was Richard D.i}-, a large proprietor, useful man, and deacon of the church. Thomas Wilder, of the Lancaster stock, was here till the next war, 1755-f!3, took him away. Abijah Smitii was also a settler, called awa}' by the war, l)ut he returned. Others were Gabriel Pushey or Pouchey, a French refugee from Nova Scotia, William Holt, John Darling, AVilliam MolTiit. Before 1755, Benjamin Goodridgo, Thomas Jewett, Joshua Priest, David AVilder, Benoni Boynton, Nalhimicl Burnham, John jMoffatt, and John Brown had been added to the number. Some of these left, but others came, so thiit by 17()1, when the war was virtually over, there were ten or a dozen families settled on the grant. From tliis date settlers came in rapidly. By 1TG4, twenty-one men had added themselves to the number already here. Peace was declared between England and Franco in 17G3. This stopped the hostili- ties of the Indians, and made it safe to settle families in the interior. New towns were soon formed. The inhabitants of Ipswich Canada sent in a i)etition for incorporation as a town, and the next year, June 14, 17G4,the act of incor- poration was passed by the General Court, and signed by Gov. Bernard. The name of Winchendon is derived either from Viscount Winchcndon, Earl of Whaiton, or from a i)lace named Upper Winchingdon in Buckingh;unshire, from which jdacc probal)ly the viscount derived his title. It is thought by some that Gov. Bernard gave the name on account of his own connection as an heir to an estate in Upper Winchingdon. The names of some of the fathers of the town, as collected from the records of the two first town meetings, here follow : Thomas Mansfield, Abel Wilder, Natlianiel Bixby, Benoni Boynton, Ephraim Boynton, Richard Day, Jonathan 528 TOWN OF WINCHEXDOX. Foster, Samuel Crage, John Darling, Samuel Titus, Jonallian Stirason, William Oaks, Reuben Wyman, Titnotli}' Darling, Abucr Ilalc, Silas Whitney, Joseph Stimson, Bartholomew Pearson, Daniel Goodritlge, Aaron Ilodskins, Amos Spring, Stephen Choate, Nathuniel Burnham. Other families came in rapidly in the succeeding years, the descendants of whom are still, or were recentl}-, residents of the town. These bore the name of Hale, ]Murdock, Brown, Bow- ker, Barrett, Perlc}-, Porter, Sherwin, Bigelow, Merriam, Joslin, Whitney, No\'es, Bradish, Payson, ILuighttni, Whitcomb, Smith, Stuart, Carter, Simonds, Hunt, Sawyer, Bridge, Prentiss, Knight and Gale. The town being thus settled, a few lines may be given to the location, boun- daries and scenery. The grant was six miles square, with the north line bordering on New Hampshire. When the present line was run between Massachusetts and New Hampshire, it was found that the northern line of this State took in a strip one mile wide from New Hampshire, but for some unknown reason this tract of six square miles was given to Royalston, and was called " Royalston Leg." Some years later it was assigned to Winchendon. But this addition was more than equalled by subtractions taken from the south-cast section when Gardner was incorporated. The boundaries are now as follows : North, by Fitzvviiliam and Rindge, N. H. ; east, by Ashburnhum ; south, by Gardner and Templeton ; and west, by Royalston. The town con- tains al)()ut twenty-six thousand three hundred acres of surface, including land and water. It is one of the three towns on the northern line of Worcester County. The elevation is high, the surface, on the average, being between ten and eleven hundred feet above tide-water. The dam on Miller's River, near the Orthodox church in Winchendon Village, is one thousand and sixty feet above sea-level, and the highest land in the town, a little north-west of the meeting-house in the centre, is about one thousand four hundred and eight feet high. Probably the neighborhood in the centre is the most elevated village in the comity. The surface is very nneven, alternating between high hills and wide valleys. The hills, gcncrall}', have a gentle slope, favoring cultivation, and in the westerly part is a long sandy plain. The town is well watered with springs, brooks, and Miller's River, which furnish great watei-power. There is one beautiful natural pond named Denison Pond, and the southern quarter of Monomonauk Lake lies in the town. This body of water, lying mainly in Rindge, N. H., as now raised, covers not far from two thousand six hundred acres. This immense store of power, joined to that which comes from the Naukeag ponds in Ashburnhum, turns the wheels at Winchendon, and will, in future, increase its business and wealth. The prospect from many high points is very extensive. At the south the dome of Wachusett rises in fair proportions; on the east, are the great and little Watatic ; at the north, arc the Lyndeboro' Hills ; and at the north-west, towers up the Grand Monadnock, while afar off westward arc seen the summits of the long Green Mountain chain. In the town itself are many scenes of beauty, where in early times OLD-TDIE HARDSHIPS. 529 were swamps and rocks, and a tliick covering of woods, which gave a uniform expression to the landsc;ipe. There was the usnal variety of woods in the iinhroken forest, hut the pine covered, probably, as many acres as all other trees together. This fact has given a character to the town to the present time. Besides farming, the atten- tion of the people was early turned to the working up of i)ine timber, and, trom the number of shingles split from the trees, the place was called "Shingle Town" 1)3' outsiders. The trees were so straight and rived so easily, that long clapboards were split i\s true as they can be sawed. The meeting-house crci ted at the Centre in 1702 was taken down, and rebuilt on a smaller scale in ]Sr)2, when the clapboards were used again, being better than new sawed lio:irds. The same was true of the shingles, but these were too much broken in removing to be put on again. The people who felled the woods and subdued the fields of Wiuchendon were plain, industrious, honest and moral in their generation. Few, if an}', besides the minister, Rev. Daniel Stimpson, and the first permanent physician, I'r. "Whiton, had anything more than a common school education. Abel A\'ilder, and perhaps a few others, had advanced farther in their studies. The jiiople, as a whole, were bettor malcrial for the planting of a township than tlie average. They readily complied with the laws in relation to education :ind religion. Schools were soon started, a meeting-house was built, and an I'llucated minister was honorably supported. Many of the leading families NMTc connected with the church, and nearly all the inhabitants were respectful ■itlendants on public worship. The annals of the town are but slightl}' stained \\ith the record of social scandals. Though some men and families were more llirifty than others, there was a general equality in fortune and social con- dition. The hardships of the first generation were very great when the woods needed to be opened b}' the axe, the swamps had to bo drained, and the stones and stumps obstructed the plow and dulled the scythe. Besides, the winters wore cold, and the shelter was scanty. Then serpents and wild boasts called for watchfulness, and made life solicitous. But, after all, the people, old and Minig, enjoyed life. Mrs. Brown, the wife of the second minister, was drawn into town on an ox-sled because of the depth of the snow in the unbroken roiids. This was in the time of the Revolution. She said (if the people that, \\iien she came to the town, "they were poor as poverty, but merry as grigs." Siiys Rev. Dr. John Whiton, a native of the town : " Many families found it dillicult, at certain seasons of the year, to procure meat, but subsisted on bread and milk, with vegetaldes, and, of these even, the supply was often scanty. It was diflicult to rear sheep on account of the ravages of the wolves, and the cattle were too few to furnish manj' for slaughter. One of the most respecta- ble women of that day often remarked that sometimes she became (to use her own words) 'so meat hungry' that, coidd she have procured a piece of meat to ' I boil with her potatoes and turnips, to season them with the flesh relish, she 530 TOWN OF WINCimXDOX. could have bceu pretty well satisfied, even though not permitted to taste the meat itself." In the years just preceding the outbreak of the Revolution, the town was in full sympathy with the people of Boston and the whole Colony in opposition to the measures of the British Government. The leaders of the people were Kichard Day, Abel Wilder, and Moses Hale, — all of whom became deacons of the church. Mr. Hale was chosen delegate to a county convention, and to the Provincial Congress in 1774. j\Ir. Wilder was captain of the military com- pany. There were in the town in 1775, according to Rev. Dr. Whiton, "about ninety families, and near five hundred and fifty people, so that they were able to muster quite a company of militia." When the news came from Lexington and Concord, the people sprang to arms, and as "minute-men," under the lead of Moses Ilale, started for the scene of action. Learning while on the way that there were enough at Cambridge, they returned home, and attended to their spring work, and put themselves in preparation for the opening contest. Abel Wilder was commissioned captain, and, by letters dated May G and 10, it appears that his company were in Cambridge. The company' was composed of men from Winchendon, Templeton and Royalston. Among the soldiers from Winchendon were Benjamin Rice, Amos Hale, David Stoddard, Samuel Bradish, John Day, Nathan Day, Timothy Darling, Samuel Brown, and Klislia Brown. Some twelve or fifteen of the company were personally engaged in the battle of Bunker Hill, the remainder being on guard or otherwise employed. Those from this town engaged in the thick of the fight were Wilder, Bradish, Stoddard, Rice and Hale, and j)eihaps others. Stoddtird was covered wiih earth thrown up bj' a cannon-ball ; Bradish lost an eye ; Capt. Wilder fired his gun "nineteen times, with good chances." By another letter, it appears lh:it he continued firing until his gun was so stopped up "that he could fire it no longer." "The balls flew very thick," but the captain and his men escaped fatal casualties. The following lines cast a gleam of light on the state of things in Boston in the spring and summer of 1775 : "The people are coming out of Boston daily. I was at Charlestown Ferry Monday, to see a load come over. They seemed to be glad that they had got out, but looked back sober to think they had left all their substance behind them." On the Fourth of July, 1770, while the Continental Congress was voting on the immortal Declaration of Independence, the citizens of Winchendon unani- mously resolved "that if the honoraljle Continental Congress should think best for the safely of these Colonies to declare them independent of the kingdom of Great Britain, that we will, with our lives and fortunes, support them in thoi measure." At the Alarch meeting, 1777, the Declaration was read by order ofj the Legislature, and was put on record as a "peri)etual memorial thereof." The story of the Revolution cannot be crowded into a town history, nor c;m the deeds and sacrifices of a single town be ccmdcnsed into such a sketch as this. It is enough to say that the people of Winchendon, male and female,! BEGIXXING OF SCHOOLS. 531 old and j oiing, adhered to the patriotic cause till the war was triumphantly closed at Yorktown. The hardships of the men in the field, and tlie lal)ors, privations and anxieties of the wives and children at home, cannot be made real to us by any effort ( f the imagination. In the progress of the war, nearly every man of the prescribed ago and liable to military duty was in the service, more or less. Some were engaged in the Continental Army " for three j'ears, or during the war" ; others were out i)ut a few months ; and others for only a few days, on some special service. The contributions of money, clothins, food and oilier stoies were a severe drain on the resources of the inhaliitants, but they cheerfully bore the burdens which were necessary for the achievement of national life and constituti(jnal freedom. The exhaustion of the war left many men in debt, and the hard times which fol- lowed, during a few years, led to Avide-spread discontent. Debtors favored "stay laws" to liberate them from paying their debts when due, and they tried to prevent the sessions of the courts in order to delay civil process, and tlius post- pone pay-day. Finally, in 1786, the discontented took up arms, and became rebels again>t the government of the State. It is a matter of record that many of the inhabitants of Winchendon were in sympathy with the insurgents. They took the lead in town meeting on several occasions. At one time the two par- ties were assembled on opposite sides of the Common. While the friends of the government were engaged in running bullets at the house of Esquire Crosby, the followers of Shays were doing the same at the hoi.sc of a neighbor. At a meeting on the Common to raise recruits, the drummer went round, but none followed him. The Shaysites were in the majority. At length, William Wiiit- uey, head of all the Whitneys in this secticni, called out to his eldest son, Phinehas, "Turn out, Phin." Instantly Phin. stepped from the crowd and fol- lowed the drummer. One al"ter another folli)wed his example, and the cpiota was soon filled. Wiien the insurgents took the field and actual war stared them in the face, few, if any men of Winchendon were in the ranks, but sev- eral l)esides joung Phin. Whitnej' were in the army of the pursuers who over- took the rebels at Petersham, on a cold winter morning, and scattered them like chaff before a gale. The misguided men soon had their grievances redressed, as far as possilde, by the government, and settled down into law- abiding citizens. The people of the town, with individual exceptions, had nothing more to do with war, personally, till the outbreak of the Rebellion in 1801. The first mention of schools in the records is under date of ^la}- 5, 1705, the year after the town was organized, when eight dollars were appropriated for a school at the Centre. The next year the sum was twenty dollars. Doubt- less there was a school of some kind before this date. In 17(j7 it was voted, "the extreme parts of the town to have a schoid by themselves, they providing a place and keeper." A bill was p lid by the town this year, to pay for "a horse to bring the school dame up and carry her down again." The cost was^ 532 TOWN OF WINCIIEXDOX. five shillings. It seems that they had to go out of town to obtain the only teacher. Appropriations were slightly incre.iscil in the years before the Revo- lution. Eig'.it}' acres of the school land were rented in 1772, and the pro- ceeds, ill addition to $12 raised by tax, were used for schooling. Mrs. Down, the "school dame" was boarded four weeks for twelve shillings. In 1774 the town was divided into six sections, each of which was to have a school, but the terms were short. By the law at that time, the town was a school district, and had the entire control of the schools, as at present, where districts have recently been abolished. It was several years before school-houses were erected in the sevcrtd sections or "scpiadrons." The schools were kept in i)ri- vate houses, coopers' shops, and sometimes in barns, during summer. In the arrangement of schools for many years, nearly up to the close of the century, no school-house was set up in AVinchendon village. Spring Village or AVatcr- ville, those villages not being then in existence. In 1780 it was voted "that :i schoolmaster be hired to keep school nine months in a 3'ear." Also, "that the nine months' schooling be equally divided into six parts, to be kept in the several places agreed upon by the town." This seems to indicate that school- houses w'ere not yet built. The ai)propriations increased, and in 178,") the grant for schooling was $50. By action taken in 17SG live or six school-houses were soon erected, at a total cost of $300. Prol)ably some work was given in the several squadrons or quarters. Before 1799 the annual a[)pr()piiation was raised to $1.")0. At this time Dr. Israel Whiton was in full practice, and had medical students. In the winter months these young men were engaged in teaching the schools, and this added to their value. The Rev. Dr. Whiton, whose early training was in the centre school, leaves the testimony that the cause of education in the town, received a great im- jiulse near the opening of this century, from Edward Payson of Rindge, after- wards the celebrated divine. Befv)rc this time the town had been districted, and prudential committees were chosen in each district ; but the .approbation (jf teachers and the examination of the schools was the duty of the town's com- mittee, of which the minister was ex officio a member, and generally chair- man. Indeed he «w.s- the school committee; and the whole .supcrinteudenco was devolved upon him. In 1808, the sum raised for schooling was $500; in 1820, it was $000; in 1^33, it was $700; and in 1840, it was raised to $1,000. A great ellbrt was made in 18in, to raise the standard of education in the town ; and a committee of which Daniel Ilenshaw was chairman, presented to the town an able report on the subject, with valuable j^iuggeslions, some of which were adopted. In 1829, the late Hon. Elisha Murdock was placed oil the school committee, a position which he occupied till 18y removinf; the causes, and how best to siip|)oi't those who were dependent. They found the cause in the free use of intoxi- cating drinks; and they suggested that tavern-keepers and retailers of s|)iritn- ous ]i(jUors should be compelled to observe the law in regard to their business, or have their licenses taken away. Another committee, chosen in 1S2S to purchase a poor-farm, made a report in which they referred to the causes of poverty. In this they spoke in regard to the "expediency of immediately posting those who make too free use of intoxicating liquors, and committing to the work-house those who are idle and mis-spcuding their time." The "posting" referred to was an ancient custom, whereby men not entirely lost to shame were sometimes brought back to decency. If a man was idle, — given to haunting taverns and drinking to excess, — he was "posted," and all persons were forbidden to supply him with intoxicating liquors. It is related of one man, that, when roused by being "posted," to a sense of the degradation to which he had sunk, he said, "it was worse than dying." The poor-farm and house were purchased in the spring of 1S2S ; and it was voted that the poor-house should be a work-house. Since that time the poor have been supported on the farm ; and generally have been under the care of suitable superintendents. The appropriations for their support have been generous; and they have had the privilege of attending meeting on the Sab- bath, or of having meetings at their home, conducted by the clergymen of the town. The latter service has been occasional. There was one case in which the town was obliged to support a man in his old age, whose history had points of interest. Eden London was a slave, in fact, though it is claimed that he was not legally such in Massachusetts. lie had belonged to several masters in difi'erent towns, but at last w-as sold to Jonathan Slimson of Wiuchendon. Passing i'voxn him to Thomas Sawyer and from him to Daniel Goodridge, he enlisted in the three years' service in 1776, whereupon his master received the whole of his bounty and part of his wages. Eden was to have his freedom for taking the place of his master in the service. The question in law was, to what town could Eden Loudon look for support in (lid age and poverty? The court in 1807 decided that, "before the Revolution the settlement of a slave always followed that of his master." This threw Eden upon the town ; and he was supported to old age. The tradition is, that he was "a pretty smart man." RELIGIOUS HISTORY. 537 CHAPTER II. HISTOKT OF CnURCHES RELIGIOUS DEBATES PASTORAL KECORD SUBSE- QUENT SOCIETIES CEMETERIES — POPULATIOX AGRICULTURE VILLAGES LIBRARIES WOOD-AVORKING AND COOPERAGE BUSINESS MILLS AND SHOPS INVENTORS REBELLION RECORD THE MUROOCK BUILDING BANES AND SOCIETIES COLLEGIATE AND OTHER PROMINENT CITIZENS. The history of the churches will be given in the order of their org;inizatioii. The first Congregiitioaal church was formed iu 1762, i)ut records from that time to 1800 are lost ; but as the towu was a parish down to about the year 1825, there are entries in the records of the town that relate to tlie church. In 1752 a small frame of a meeting-house was raised, but the house was never 6nished. A small sum of mone}' was raised to procure preaching during the winter. The meetings were held in a "room." In 1701 a meetiug-house was built at the south end of the Common. In September it was voted I)y the town to settle a minister, and Mr. Daniel Stimpson was offered " the minister's right and sixty pounds of money, and sixty pounds salary." At another meeting it was agreed " that instead of giving ye said Daniel Stimpson sixty pounds salary yearly so long as he shall carry on the ministry, to give him sixty pounds salary yearly so long as he shall continue our minister." This secured support in sickness and in old age. Mr. Stimpson was ordained Dec. 15, 1762, and it is supposed that the church was first organized by the council before proceeding to the services of ordination. He was a graduate of Harvard O'llege. After a brief ministry, of less than six years, he died suddenly, of a violent putrid fever, July 20, 1768. The town had a meeting the same day, and voted : "to bear the charges that may arise at the funeral of our deceased pastor;" and "that the Bearers be desired to preach one Sabbath day," ea^h. This was for the benefit of the widow. There are no records to show how many were admitted to the church in his pastorate, but it is known that several of the principid men in the town were pillars in the church. Dea. Richard Day was a man of large property and influence, Dea. ^Nloses Hale became a leading man as years advanced, and Hon. Abel Wilder had few equals in the county in all the elements of Christian manhood. The next minister Avas the Rev. Joseph Brown, also a graduate of Harvard College. He was chosen, in the towu meeting, by "a unanimous vote to settle in the ministry." His settlement and salary were liberal, for those times, besides the use of two additional ministerial lots. He had also liberty "to lie absent two Sabbaths in a year." The ordination took place May 21, 1769. lie W.1S happily settled, among a united people. There were, according to Dr. Whiton, about sixty families in the pl.ace, with a population not far from three hundred and fifty. Mr. Brown \Vas a man of ability, and appears to have been 538 TOWN OF WINCHENDON. acceptable to the clmrch and town for a long series of years. The population increased, and by 1790 the demand for a new and larger house of worship was imperative. Tiie house was built in 1792, and dedicated on the first day of January, 1793. It was a good-si/ed house, well built, and was tlie pride of the town for a generation, or until more modern architecture made it seem antiquated. Nearly thirty years of peace and of ordinary prosperity passed away, when dissatisfaction began to be exi)ressed i)y some members of tlic cliurch. Tliis grew and spread througli tlie town. The consequence was, an unhappy controvers}', in which the minister was sustained by councils and the courts, but his dismission was the result. The council was held Sept. 3, 1799, but the dismission was not legally eft'octed till certain points were com- plied with by the parish. The influence of this contest was bad, but in a short time there was a restoration of harmony. After hearing various " supplies," Rev. Levi Pillsbury, a graduate of Dartmouth College, class of 1798, was ordained June 23, 1801. Ilis ministry lasted until April .5, 1819, and was filled with usefulness. Though a Democrat in politics, and, in th;it respect, in opposition to the large majority of the church and town, he was held in high esteem. He was a man of I fair abilities and scholarship, of deep sincerity and devoted piety. His inlluence i held the town to the ancient fiith, and prepared the way for the great religious | interest which pervaded tlie community soon after his lamented decease. R-^v. Elam Clark, a man gifted with remarktible pulpit talents, was invited to be his successor, but declined, when the Rev. Eber L. Clark was called, and his installation took place Oct. 13, 1820. He was a minister of great i energy, and made his mark on the congregation, and in a pastorate of ab )iit fifteen years the church was enlarged by man}' new members, chiefly on con- i fession of their faith in Christ. His letter of resignation was accepted Jan. 2, 1835. On the second day of March, 1836, the Rev. Daniel O. Morton was inducted into the pastorate, as his successor. There were then in the church one hundred and seventy-one members. Daring his active ministry, of a little over five years, a large number was added by profession. The influence of Mr. Morton and Mr. Clark remains in the town to this day, though they are romemI)ercd by few now on the stagj of action. Mr. Morton was dismissed June 29, 1841. Rev. Beujuniu Rice was acting pistor about three years. This was the era of "supplies," which lasted till Nov. 10, 1816, when Rev. Malachi Rullard was ordained. In the meantime the North Church had been formed in the village. Mr. Rullard died in the spring of 1849, and was succeeded by Rev. John Storrs, in August of the same year. He was sud- denly cut off in May, 1852. During his ministry the ancient meeting-house was taken down, and rebuilt on a smaller scale, but large enough for the . reduced congregation. The Rev. Benjamin F. Clarke succeeded Oct. 24, < 1855. He continued nearly ten years. All these were faithful ministers, and 'i. of great service in maintaininj: the influence of religion amid discouraging l;i SUBSEQUENT CHURCHES. 539 circumstances, owing to the change and removal of the population. Since the removal of Mr. Clarke, the church has been served by the Rev. Milan II. Hitclicock, uow a devoted missionary at Constantinople, Rev. David Brigham, and others. At present Rev. Levi Brigham is supplying the puli)it. The church and congregation have been much weakened by the removal of the people to the Village and to other places, but with much self-denial, public Wor.-hip is still maintained. The Bapiists.liegan to have preaching in the south-west section of the town as early as 1783. The church at New Boston, as that section is styled, was organized about the opening of this century. Elder Samuel Simonds was the first stated minister. lie was active and devoted in his calling, and appears to have liad the conlidencc and respect of the whole community. In 1820 the meeting-house in New Boston was l)uilt, through the influence of Mr. Simonds. The church had a healthy growth, and the lirst pastor's name is still mentioned gratefully by aged people wlio were benetited by his labors. Elder Jones followed him. Rev. Warren Cooper and Rev. Andrew Dunn were the pastors from 1840 to about 1853. The Rev. Mv. Fay followed the second pastorate of Mr. Cooper. The first sermon ever delivered in Winchendon by a INIethodist preaclier, was by Lorenzo Dow, in Octol)cr, 1796. This man's name appears in connection with the origin of several churches in the region. At the above date he was nineteen j'cars of age. The Methodist Episcopal (^'hurch was organized in 1800, and the meeting-house was on Tallow Hill, so called, in the north-west section of the town in 1807. The church in the Village w-as erected in 1833. and enlarged in 1851. There is no space to record the names of the more than sixty successive pastors of this church, but it may be said that, with scarcely an exception, they made a good record, as faithful and godly men. The Sabbath school was formed in 1824, and has been well sustained. The society and church have increased with the growth of the town. In 1875-6, a new and elegant house of worship was erected. The present minister is Rev. Jlr. Hanaford. The society owns a respectable and comfortal)lo parsonage. The North Congregational Church was organized Dec. 7, 1843. A society had already erected a neat and convenient house of worship. Mr. A. P. JIarvin, then in the Theological Seminary at New Haven, having received a unanimous invitation from both church and parish, was ordained Jan. 10, 1844. He had supplied the pulpit of the First Church in the Centre, during the pre- ceding six months. The church was composed of sixty-seven members. The society was self-supporting, and immediately began to help others by regular contributions. In 1855 the house was enlarged, and improved by fitting up a vestry and ladies' rooms in the high basement. Mr. Marvin was dismissed Aug. 22, 18()6, after a pleasant pastorate of over twenty-two and a half years, having been invited to engage; in another service. The number of the members had hecn nnu h incieased, and the congregati(jn had had a steady increase not- 540 TOWN OF "VVINCHENDON. uilhstiiiKling the formation of two religious societies in the villnge. After his dismission the first pastor I'cmained two or three years, and pulilished the iiis- tory of the town, in accordance with a public vote. This sketch is mainly condensed from that voinmc. The Iiov. Austin Dodge, a giMdnatc of Audover Theological Seminary, was ordained and installed. Oct. 9, 1866. He was dismissed by a mutual council in al)out a yeai-. The Rev. Davis Foster, a graduate of Dartmouth College and Andover Seminary, who had been pastor of the church in West Newbury several years, was engaged to supply the pulpit several months, after which he was installed in 1869. He is still in the pastorate, and his ministry has been blessed by many additions to the church. The present number is two hundred and thirty-nine. The Baptist Church in the Vill.age was formed, April 27, 1848, and Kov. Andrew Dunn, who had preached for several years at New Boston, became the first pastor. A neat and commodious sanctuary was erected, and on the 17lh of January, 1849, was dedicated. The enterprise has been successful. Mr. Dunn left for another chuich in 1853. The Revs. Abraham Baldwin, Lester Williams, W. W. Ashley and George A. Litchfield succeeded, the latter remaining several years — from 1861 to 1865 — when he retired on account of impaired health. At the close of his pastorate the church numbei'ed one hun- dred and eleven members. The Rev. Leonard Tracy and others supplied llio desk till the Rev. J. S. Hamblin was settled in 1872. Lender his ministry there has been a gratifying increase of the church and congregation. The last rejjort gives one hundred and ninety-four members of the church. The opening of the Cheshire Railroad in 1848, brought into the town several Irish ftimilies ; and the tide then started, flowed steadily till the Catholics were numerous enough to need conveniences for public worship. A plain building put up for another puipose, was fitted for a church, in which their services were held until the basement of a spacious church was fitted for a largo congregation a few years since. This basement is roofed over, the intention being to complete the church when fimds are provided. Father Moran is the present pastor of the Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The Unitarians began to hold meetings in the Town Hall in 1851. Th3 Third Congregational Society was oiganized by them in the folhjwing j'ear. Rev. T. II. Dorr was installed Jan. 19, 1852, and continued about a year, when the engagement was terminated bv mutual consent. Rev. Mr. Hicks and others supplied for a time, when Rev. Benjamin Ilnntoonwas invited, and remained about two years, 1856-8. He vvas a venerable gentleman, much respected by the whole community. After an intermission of several years, services were resumed, and Rev. Charles Wheeler was engaged to preach in September, 1865. His pastorate has continued till the present time. An elegant granite church was erected in 1866-7, and was dedicated Nov. 13, 1867. The house which is styled "Church of the Unity," is a fine specimen of architecture. LOCAL NOTES. 541 School-house meetings have been held in all parts of the town, from early times, on the afternoon aucl evening of the Sahbalh. The various ministers preach as their convenience serves, and there has been no clashing in their minis- trations. A very large majority of the inhabitants have always been connected ■witii some religious society, and the state of morals, including temperance, has been sound, compared with that of other towns in the county. There are four cemeteries in the town. Two arc ancient; viz., the old bnrying-vard in the Centre and the yard in New Boston. The Riverside Cemeterj' was consecrated July 1, 1858. Its location is convenient to the villages, and not more than one and a half miles from four-fifths of the houses in the whole town. There are al)out twenty-five acres in the enclosure, and the soil is well adapted to the purpose of a cemetery. In addition, the features of the scenery are charming. liarcly is a more attractive union of plain, hillside, meadow and running water found than in this beautiful sleeping place of the departed. The Catholic Cemetery is on the same high plain, with two sides sloping to the border of the large pond, whose gleaming surface, like a mirror, lights up and reflects the Village, while its ceaseless flow gives life to all the business of the place. The population of the town at successive periods, down to 1875, is given in the history of AVorcester Count\\ By the census of 1860 there were two thousand six hundred and twenty-four inhabitants. The number had increased to three thousand seven hundred and sixty-two in 1875. This increase was confined to the villages, and the larger part of it to (he Village. The valuation at one time was below that of all the other towns in the county, except two or three. Li 18(;5 it had risen to $l,lfiO,952. In ISOS it was $1,537, 12(5. By the census of 1875 it was $2,190,889. The inhabitants, during the first two generations, were settled quite evenly over the whole township. Farming was the main occupation. There were the necessary mechanics, of course, and some of the farmers spent part of the winter in splitting shingles and other kinds of lumbering. There was no collection of houses that could be styled a village, except by a figure of speech, previous to 1820. The Centre never had at any one time more than eight or ten dwelling-houses. In addition, there was the meeting-house, the school- house, a blacksmith's shop and a stf)rc. One of the houses was a tavern. Elderly people remember the time when there were onl}' four dwelling-houses in what is now Winchendon Village. Then Spring Village and Wafervillo had nothing which suggested the nucleus of a village. At that date there was no school in Waterville or Spring Village, and but one in the Village, where there arc now six or seven, including primary, intermediate, granmiar and high schools. While the population of the villages, especially that of Winchendon Village, has been increasing, old cellars prove that the firm-houses around the town have l)ecn diminishing. There are now three villages in Winchendon, omitting the old Centre or 542 TOWN OF WIXCHENDON. Common and BuUiirdville, in eatli of which there is a small collection of buikliiigs. These three are all on Miller's River, and derive their existence and liusiness from the power which it supplies. Winchcndon Village, or The Village, as it is called by the townspeople, or "Winchendon, as it is known by ontsidcrs and the post-office department, is a mile north of the middle of the town, and midway between the east and west borders. It is principally on the north and west side of the river and the ponds which are formed here by snli- stantial dams. Where there were four houses within the memory of living men, and twenty houses in 1843, there arc now not far fnmi four hundred, with five churches, many stores and shops, large mills and factories, the stations of three or four railroads clustered together, two spacious hotels and various other places of concourse and business. Notwithstanding the hard times since the panic of 1873, the marks of thrift are everywhere visible, and the signs of reviving industry are increasing. Two and a half miles up the river, towards the north-east section of the town, is Spring Village, so styled from an iron-spring, well known to the Indians, and used for culinary purposes by many families in the vicinity. This village owes its existence to the great water-power which drives the machinery in Mr. N. D. White's large cotton manufactor}\ There are, perhaps, thirty houses in the village and immediate vicinity. With few exceptions the dwell- ings are not large, though comfortable. Waterville is one mile south-west of the principal Village, and bids fair to increase as its mill-privileges shall be worked to their full power. A station on the Ware River Railroad ofTers facilities to business. Here were some fifty houses ten years ago, and there has been an increase, though not great, since that time. Private libraries were scarce, in the last century, in our country towns, and public libraries were not numerous. The IVililc held an honorable iilaco in nearly every household. The other books, religions or secular, coull generally be placed on a single short shelf. There was, however, a library in the town many years ago, because it is more than half a century since it was soil. This was in the Centre. A library was started in the Village about 1810, but was sold at auction not far from 1825. A third library was started before 1835, in which were some valuable works, including the Family Library. .'school District Libraries had their day, as did also an Agricultural Library. In 1850 a subscription of $300 was raised to start a librar}-, and an association was formed, and a collection of books was opened to the use of the public fir a small fee. The library grew rapidly until two or three thousand volumes of valuable liooks had been added. Many of these were damaged or destroyed by fire a few years ago, but by private gifts and town ap[)ropriations the hiss has been more than made good. It is now a public library, supported by ihe town. The collection now contains between three and four thousand volumes. In addition, there is a Pastor's Library belonging to the North Congregational INDUSTEIES OF THE TOWN. 543 Church, and several Simdav-school Libraries furnish wholesome reading to the ciiihlrcii of the several congregations. The nuniher of farms in the town, hy the census of 1875, was one hundred and sixty ; the value of farms and Imiidiugs was $334,292; the value of farm properly was $3'J8,OG0 ; the number of acres taxed was twenty-five thousand one hundred and thirty-six ; and the annual product of farming was $88,948. At the same time the annual manufacturing iiroduct was $1,085,222. But a little more detail is necessary in regard to tlic manufieturing and mechanical business of "Winchcndou. As stated alread}', the abundance of pine timber gave a turn to the employ- ment of the people in the early da^'s of the settlement. Splitting shingles and sawing lumber were engaged in as a matter of course ; then came coopering and the making of pails, tubs, churns and firkins by hand. The ingenuity of men contrived machines to turn out the pails more readily, and the abundant water of the streams and the main river was made to drive the machines, and thus A^'iuchendon became the mart as well as the workshop of the wood-ware business. Cotton and woolen factories came next. These were followed by machine-shops. More recently new kinds of business iiave been cstal)lished, unlii there is quite a variety in the industrial employments of the people. The first mills were saw and grist mills, and these in time were set in motion in all sections of the town. The old "Parsons Mill" was on the privilege now belonging to the Goodspced & Wyman estate. Mere was a fulling-mill and clothieis' >hop. Phinchas and Amasa Whitney had an oil-mill here. Spinning- machines were buzzing in one of the buildings (m this site from 181C to 1825. Next, .Imasa Whitney had a woolen fiictorj'. Various changes followed, under the maniigcment of George Coffin and William Vose. The Seamless Garment Company occupied the building a few years ; there arc now on the ground five or six buildings, some of which are large. Machinery is made in one ; wood- ware in another ; faucets in a third ; and saddle-trees in a fourth. Down stream some fift}^ rods is the large tannery formerly owned by the late Iy William Lineoln, Es(i., anil published by Moses D. Phillips it Co., boolc- sellers in the town, with the imprint 1837. Mr. Lincoln's work was eompiled with zeal, fidelity and discretion, and treated the subjeet in an exhaustive manner, which left but little for later gleaners in the same field. The history was re-printed in 1862, by Charles Hcrsey, who added many facts and statistics for the period which had intervened since 18.3G. The "Reminiscences of Worcester from the Earliest Period, Historical and Genealogical, with notices of early settlers and prominent citizens, and descriptions of old landmarks and ancient dwellings, accompanied l>y a map and numerous illustrations, by Caleb A. Wall," appeared in 1877, and is a valuable addition to the bibliography of the place. Mr. Albert A. Lovell compiled an excellent history of " Worcester in the Revolution," which was published in 1876. In the same year an account of the municipal celebration of the Centennial Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, published by the city, was euiichcd with historical and chronological notes, compiled by Mr. Nathaniel Paiue. The EARLY LOCATION. 549 In the early distribution, by the Commonwealth, of its vast unoccupied tracts in the interior, 3,200 acres fell to Increase Nowell, of Charlcstown, in 1G57, 1,000 acres to the church in Maiden in IGG2, and 2.")0 acres to Ensign Thomas Noycs, of Sudbuiy, in 1G(j4. These were all subsequently located in the neighborhood of the lake fioni which the settlement here derived its original name (if Qu()n>-igamoag, or Quinsigamond. In 1GG5, on petition of the pur- chasers of Nowell's right, the General Court appointed a commission to view the region, and determine '' if there boa meet place fur a plantation." The Jeath t)f one of the commission (Lieut. Noycs), and disturbances in the bod}' [)olitic, prevented them from attending to their duty ; but a new commission, appointed two years later, held a view in 16G8, and made their return, which is of sufEdcnt interest to reproduce here, in full. The reader of to-day will be amused at seeing this city described as a tract " about twelve miles west- ward from Marlborough" (or Maurlborrow), and as one capable of supplying Ihirt}' or perhaps sixty families : — " We have, according to the Court's order, bearing date 15th May, 16G7, viewed the place therein mentioned, and find it to be about twelve miles westward from Marl- borough, near the road to Springfield, and that it contains a tract of very good chesnut tree land ; a large quantity : but the meadow we luid not so much ; because a very L'onsiderable quantity of meadow and upland, about five thousand acres, is laid out imto pariicular persons, and eonQnucd hi' this Court, as we are informed, which falls svitliiu this tract of land; viz; to Ensign Noj-cs deceased and his brethren, three thousand two hundred acres: nnto the church of Maiden, one thousand acres: unto others, live hundred acres, bought of Ensign No3-es ; but, all this notwithstanding, we conceive, there may be enough meadow for a small plantation, or town, of about thirty families: and if those farms be annexed to it, it m.iy supply about sixty families, riierefore, we conceive it expedient, that the honored court will be pleased to reserve it fur a town, being conveniently situated, and well watered with ponds and brooks, and lying near midway between Koston and Springfield, about one day's journey from sillier : and. for the settling tliercof we do offer unto the Court that wliich follows ; viz : " That there be a meet i)ro|)ortion of land granted and laid out for a town, in the best form the place will liear, about the contents of eight miles square : "That a prudent and able committee be appointed and empowered to lay it out : to ndniit inhulMtants, and order the affairs of the place, in forming the town, granting lots, and directing and ordering all matters of a prudential nature, until the place be settled niili -i sutricient number of inhabitants and persons of discretion, able to order the affairs thereof, in the judgment of the Court: '' That due care he taken by the said Committee, that a good Minister of God's Word lli^st(lriL■s of some of tlie i-hurclies, scniiuaricB auf sagamore Pannasunet, who probably lived on or near Wigwam Ilill, nnd who had not joined in the former deed, all his right in the territory. In March, 1678, at a public meeting in Cambridge, Gookin, Henchman and Pren- tice of the committee, with sixteen others, signed a paper expressing their intent and puri)ose to endeavor, either in their persons or h>j ihoir relations or h;i Iheir jmrses, to re-settle the plantation in the summer of IGSO. Put none of these three means eflfected the desired end, and in October, 1()82, the commit- tee were spurred to renewed activity by the threat of the General Court that unless speedy measures were taken to form a plantation, their grant would be declared forfeited. A general survey was made in 1G83, and in the following spring a plan was adopted for a central settlement, which was soon after made on the site of what was long the central part of the village of Worcester, lying, penerall}' speaking, between Lincoln Siiiiarc and the commoiK The name of ^ 'ircestcr (from the Saxon Wegera-ceasler, or war-castle) was given to the place by the General Court in September, 1G84, and the settlement followed 552 CITY OF WORCESTER. soon after. Dauiel Gookin, Daniel Henchman and Capt. John Wing, who had i)een added to the committee, were among the settlers at this time, who included, in all, some twent3'-livc adult men. It is not probable that the set- tlement increased much in size, and, at the beginning of the 18lh century, all the white inhabitants, save cue Digory SerjcMit and his family, fled from the little town in fear of the re-awakened hostility of the Indian tribes. Serjent, who had settled on Sagatabscot Hill, in the south-east part of the town (on or near Wiuthrop Street), remained at his home unmolested through the summer of 1702 or 1703, but, at the approach of winter, an armed force of twelve men was sent by the committee to com|)el him to remove to a place of safety. The thrilling story is graphically told by Lincoln. In brief, the rescuing band arrived at Serjent's house only to find the owner stretched in blood upon the floor, and no living being near. His eldest daughter Martha, returning after- ward from Canada, where she had been carried with her bro'hers and sisters, told the story of the attack, the defence in which her father lost his lilb, the hurried flight of the savages fearing pursuit, the assassination, by a chief, of hi r fainting and faltering mother as they climbed the Tatnuck Hills, and the tedious journey to the wilds of Canada, where she was detained fur seven years iu captivity. She married Daniel Shattuck, and received her father's estate b}- will. There she probably lived for a time iu " D. Shattuck's hovel, made of the stuff" of said deceased's old house," but afterwards moved to Weslborough, where five children were born to them. In 1709 Joseph Sawyer and fifteen others petitioned the General Court for aid in the re-settlement of the town. The council appointed a committee, but the lower branch, believing the time unfavorable, refused to concur. A second petition, iu 1713, met with a favorable answer, and on the 14th of June, 1714, a detailed report w.as presented by this committee of their proceedings in adjusting the claims of the former settlers and promoting the prosperity of the future plantation. After giving notice to all interested and making a journey to Worcester, they had allowed thirty-one rights of ancient inhabitants, and admitted twenty-eight persons more to take lauds on condition of paying twelvepence per acre for their planting or house lots only, being the amount collected of the original planters, and of building and dwelling on each right whether acquired by purchase, grant or representation. It was recommended that the provision made for support of (he ministry and schools be accepted instead of the reservation to the Commonwealth in 1668. A lot of forty acres was assigned to each of the committee as compensation for their time and their past and future labor. Jonas Rice, a planter of tho second settlement, returned in the autumn of 1713, and built upon Sagatabscot Hill, occupying part of the Serjent Farm. To him was born, Nov. 7, 1714, Adonijah, the first male native of the town. Some of their descendants are still inhabitants of the city. Gershom Rice, brother of Jonas, tho second set- tler, came from Marll)orough iu the spring of 1715, and settled on Pakacho-''^' THE TOWN INCORPORATED. 553 Hill, in lhc> present limits of Auhuni, and in 1718 the population had increased to al)oiit two hundred souls. The Indians had ceased to trouble the inhabi- tants, but wild animals, poisonous reptiles, and feathered marauders annoyed the husbandman, and for many years war was waged against wolves, bears, wild-cats, raillcsnakes, blackbirds aud j:iys, for whose destruction bounties were ()fl'ercd, varying from threepence for birds to four and afterwards eight pounds for the head of a wolf. The lirst arrival of foreign settlers occurred about the year 1718, when a party of " Scotch-Irish" Presbyterians came to the new town. Most of these were descendants of a colony which had removed from Arg\'leshire to London- derry, in the north of Ireland, in the reign of James I. Failing to enjoy there the full lil)erty of worship which they desired, they came to Massachusetts, acconipiuicd by some native Irish families with whom they were connected by social or religious lies. They held their tirst religious services sometimes in the open air, and sometimes in the old fort north of Lincoln Scpiare, aud, after a little while, began the erection of a place of worship on the west side of Lin- coln Street, just north of the Paine estate. But the religion, and perhnps tho mode of life of the foreign colony were distasteful to some of the older inhabi- tants, and the partly-finished meeting-house was secretly destroyed by violence under the cover of night. Some of the emigrants, discouraged by such treat- ment and by other marks of prejudice, left the town, and joined larger bodies of their countrymen who had established settlements at Pelham, in the county of Hampshire, and at Londonderry, N. H. That succulent esculent, the j)ot:ito, was brought to Worcester by these people, aud at tirst received a wel- come no heartier than that extended to its introducers. A goodly numl)er of these people remained, however, and in time assimilated with the other inhabi- tants. The list includes the ancestors, in the sixth generation, of Gen. George I), ^b■('lcllan, and of the late Chief Justice George T. Bigelow, and of tho ibi'arlands, Caldwells, Barbers, Ilamiltons, Youngs, Crawfords and otiier families of the present day. CHAPTER II. IXCOi;POR.\TION' OF THR TOWN A COUNTY FORMED FIRST PUBLIC BUILD- INGS TOWN- HALL — THE COMMON THE OLD BUKYINO-GROUND ANCIENT TRAINING FIELD — FIRST DIRECTORY. In the month of June, 1722, the General Court passed a resolve granting a charter to the town and ordering a town meeting for organization on tho last Wednesdiy of September. The first selectmen were. Deacon Nathaniel Moore, Nathaniel Jones, Benjamin Flagg, Jonas Rice and John Gray. Jonas Rice was town clerk, Daniel Hey wood, treasurer; Nathaniel Joaes, Jonas 554 CITY OF WORCESTER. Rice and Ilcnry Lee, assessors ; Jonathan Moore and John Hubbard, constables ; Daniel Bigelow and Tliumas Ilaggitt, highway surveyors; James Holding and Jacoi) Iloluics, tything-miMi ; William Gray and Richard Ward, fence viewers; Nathaniel Moore, clerk of the market; John Gray, sealer of leather; and Robert Pcei)lc and Aaron Adams, liog-reeves. Ou the establishment of the county of Worcester, which took effect Jul\- 10, 1731, Worcester was made the shire town, a good ftjrtune which it owed to its central position rather than to its size; for Sutton, Lancaster, Mendoii and Brookfield were larger, and from the size of the new county it was urgeil by many that there should be two shires, — Lancaster and AVorcester. But (his proposition was resisted, especially by the worthy Joseph Wilder of Lancaster, who urged that the administration of justice in his town would corru|)t the morals of the people, — a theory which did not deter his towns- men at a later period from renewing the attempt ; nor did it prevent the good people of Fitchburg, in after years, from asking and obtaining the privilege of having some of the terms of court held' there, or even from clamoring for a division of the county; which last proposition — ungrauted as yet — let us hope a cooler reflection and a just pride in the history and character of the historic old county may load its people ever to resist. The history of Worcester for the remainder of the eighteenth century, embracing the period of the French and Indian wars and the struggle of tl'.c Revolution, is chiefly of a military nature, so far as it presents any features of importance, and will be treated at a later stage in this narrative. The advan- tage accruing to the town from the holding of the courts and the location of the county offices, as well as from its central position in the county and the Commonwealth — it being also u\mu the great highway of travel — brought it a steady increase of prosperity and population. Young men, having lilted them- selves f,)r the legal or medical professions, and others who desired to engage iu mercantile pursuits or in manufactures, came to Worcester as to a wider and more promising iield of labor than was offered at their homes. Jlingiing here with our native population, they helped to form a society which, leavened by the high character and learning of the clergy, acquired a lone like that for which some of the other larger towns of Massachusetts hive been noted, and which, both there and here, has been retained to the present day. For the first century of its history, there was no building owned by. the town and set apart c.velusively for town meetings and for public offices. As the first (or Old South) church was the propt-rty of the town in its parochial capacity, the meetings for the transaction of business were naturally held there at first, and it continued to be the scene of the town meetings until a building was erected expressly' for town nses. It was not until the annual " March meel- ing" in 1S24 that steps were taken which resulted in the building of the main part of what is now the City Hall. A committee chosen at this time rc'ijorted at an adjourned meeting in May, and their plan, somewhat modi- FOREHAXI) A WADSWOKTH FIKE-ARM MA.NUFACTOKY, WOKCESTEK, MASS- ^-l" f r ^ 1. \w^? f f ^ *" "irrf ' iL ^=sr£jS^?^'-^' LOKINO COES & company's WUEXCH MANVFACTORV, WORCESTER, MASS. LOCAL IMPROVEMENTS. 555 fiecl, was adopted at another nioeting two weeks later. It provided for a brick ))uildiiig, not to exceed Gl feet in length by 54 feet wide, and not to cost over $7,000. A wooden building standing upon the site, owned by Samuel Flagg and used as a store, was purchased and removed. The corner-stone of the hall was laid August 2 of the same year, when the large concourse of citizens who had assembled were addressed by Samuel M. Buruside, Esq. At the dedication, May 2 of the following year, an address, reviewing more fully the history of the town, was delivered by Hon. John Davis. The basement was occupied by a lire-cngine and a st(U'e. The first floor contained a h;dl for l)uhlic meetings and rooms for (lie town offices. The upper story was divided into two smaller halls, one of which was leased to the Freemasons, and the other was for general use. In 1841 an extension of fifty feet was made upon the east side, and the wh(;lc upper story was thrown into one large hall for town- meetings, lectures and public gatherings. Here, for several years, were held the Slate conventions of the political parties ; and it was the scene of many a si)irited caucus, notably during the summer of 1848, when our late honored townsman, Hon Charles Allen, returned from the convention at Pliiladelphia which had nominated Zachary Taylor for President, — a nomination which Judge Allen and Henry Wilson, also a delegate, had repudiated upon the spot as one made in "subserviency to slavery." A political strife arose at this time which continued for several years ; and which at the outset gave rise to a bitterness of feeling almost or nearl}' equal to that which prevailed here at the outbreak of the Revolution. It was natural that the men of that day who had shared in the triumi)hs and had been honored with tlie suffrages of the old Whig party should cling with paidonable conservatism to its organization. Some of our most honored citizens continued to act with it until its finid extinction, but the prevailing sentiment sustained Judge Allen, and from that day to this, in all elections where national issues have been involved, Worcester Las given a plurality to the candidate of the "free soil," or Repul^lican party. The Town Hall, which bad become a City Hall in 1848, was altered in that year, again in 1852 and 1857; and finally in 18I)(J, the changes were made which gave it its present internal appearance. The Common was set apart as a training-field and for a school-house at a very early period. In the year 1719 a parish church (to replace a rude oue of logs, which had been built two years previously, near Trumbull Square) was erected on this common land, by the town, acting in its municipal capacity. In 17G3, this church was torn down and was replaced nearly upon the same eitc or perhaps a few feet further south, — by the Old South Church of the Revolutionary period, which was extended twenty-five feet southerly iu 1834, and has been otherwise altered, without and within, at difl'erent times. Until some forty years ago two highwa3-s crossed the commt of the names of 150 to IGO l)usiue>s and professional people. Of ihc lawyers, llic Hon. Isaac Davis, who long since retired from practice, is now (October, 1870) the only one livinjr. Henry W. Miller was the only "merchant" who continues in business. None of the doctors of that time are now living. Daniel Goddard and Joseph Bo\- den, watchmakers; Clarendon Harris, bookseller; and Levi A. Dowley (now of New York), dealer in boots and shoes, arc probably (he only other traders of that day Avho have survived. In 1828, the Boston and New York mail left Worcester at 5 p. m., arriviiig in Boston at midnight. It left Boston at 1 p. in., and Worcester at 8 p. m. for New York. Stages with mails also left at 8 a. m. daily for Boston and for Providence, for Lowell three times a week, for Norwich and Keenc on Mon- days and Fridays, for Albany d lily by way of S[)ringfield, and three times a week r/ft Amherst ; for Athol and for Royalston om-e a week. Post-riders carried the newspapers weekly on several other routes to diflerent parts of the county, and did an express business for (he people. The " Worcester Village Directory," with an accompanying map, published by Clarendon Harris,* in 1829, gave the situation of all the buildings in (he Ceu(re district, and the names of (heir owners and occupants. It shows only about thirty streets and lanes, hardly one-twelfth of the number in the present populous part of the city. At that time the "Jo Bill road," Pearl and Pleasant streets were the only roads running west from Main Street; Union Street ran from Market to Thomas Street; Market, School, Thomas, Central and Mechauic streets were the only ones (except Union) between Lincoln Square and Front Street. South of Front Street and east of Main, were South S(reet (now Park), Church Street, Quinsigamond (now Spring), Cross (now Bridge Street south of Mechanic), Green, Franklin, Temple, Grafton and Water streets. Prospect and Shrewsbury streets were the only ones between Bel- mont and Grafton streets. In 1842-3, a "Worcester Business Directory and .\dver(iser," printed in Boston, was published by A. W. Congdon. In 1844, Ileury J. Ilowland (who was for many years the principal or only book printer here, an 1 who still lives and works at his trade) published the " Worcester D'reetory," in pamphlet form, containing 1,249 names. Its pul)lica(ion was continued annually by Mr. Rowland for 28 years, the volume for 1871 containing 12,020 names. Every year showed an increase over the preceding one, except 1858, Avhich followed the "hard times" of 1857, and 18(32, the second j'ear (jf the war. The directory has now been published for eight years by Messrs. Drew, Allis & Co. The number of names in the current volume, not counting those of * For many years tbo leading bookseller of the town ; Secretary of the State Miitnal Lifo AHSiirunco Cumpauy from its organization in 1844; Treasurer of the Fivo Cents Saving:) Bank from 185") to 1872. THE CITY CHARTERED. 559 persons wlio have died or moved from the city during the year preceding puhlication, is l!),llfi. The number of voters registered for the November election, 1879, was 9,879. CHAPTER in. NEW FORM OF GOVERNMENT CITT CHARTER PAVING STREETS — RAPID GROWTH OF THE PLACE. The rapid growth of the town in population, and the developed necessity of a stricter form of government than was practicable under a town organization, led the people to ask for a city charter. At a town meeting, held Nov. 8, 1847, on motion of John Milton Earle, a committee of which Hon. Levi Lincoln was chairman, was chosen to petition for a city charter, which was granted by an act of the Legislature, passed Feb. 29, 1848. A legal meeting of the inhabi- tants, held on the 18th of March, voted, 1,026 to 487, to accept the charter. The town was divided by the Selectmen into eight wards. A city election was held, at which a "citizen's ticket" was put forward with Hon. Levi Lincoln (AVhig) as candidate for mayor, and the names of five Whigs and three Demo- crats. An opposition ticket, called tlie "temperance ticket," was put forward with Rev. Rodney A. Miller as the candidate for mayor. Levi Lincoln icieived 836 votes, and Mr. IMillcr, G.")3. The city government convened on the 17th oF April, when the oath of office was administered to the new mayor, by Hon. Pliny Merrick, justice of the Coint of Common Pleas. The aO'aiis of the new body corporate were at once arranged on business piincii)les. The liablities of the town, of the centre school district, and the ai|ueduct cor[)oration, amounting to $99,()77, were assumed. The city hall was rc-arranged for the needs of a city government, and new streets, much needed, were projected. Charles A. Hamilton, who had been town clerk from ls,')6, was city clerk until 1855; John Boyden, town treasurer for two years, was city treasurer the first year; George Jones was city marshal for fivo years. The number of polls in 1848, was 3,872; total valuation, $8,721,100; rate of taxation, $5.34 per $1,000. The nnmi)er of polls in 1879, is 13,935 ; valuaticm: real estate, $30,708,100 ; personal estate, $8,877,258 ; rate of tax- ation, $15.60; city debt, $2,507,100. The matter of paving a jjortion of ]\Iain Street was tirst l)roaehed in 1846. .■\ coinmiltec appointed April 6, made a report on the 27th, which was inde- tiiiitely postponed by the town. Another commilteo was appointed December 2i), who reported in March, 1847, through Gov. Lincidn, that the probable expense of paving, from Front Street to Linccdn S(piare, would be $12,000. At an adjourned meeting in April, they made a supplementary report, recom- mending the use of square blocks of granite. The first work was done io 5G0 CiTY OF WORCESTER. 1849, when Main Street was paved from Front Street to Exchange Street. During the next year Front Street was paved from Main Street to the railroad crossing, and the pavcnoent of Main Street was extended northerly. The development of the different departments of the city and its public institutions, keeping pace with the increase of population, will appear in the succeeding chapters of this narrative. CHAPTER IV. THE niLLS AND VALLEYS OF WORCESTER — LAKE QUINSIGAMO>a> — BRIDGES AND STREAMS — EARLY SEARCH FOR MINES THE COAL VEIN COMPANY FOR WORKING IT BRICK AND PEAT GRANITE QUARRYING SLATE BEDS. The hills of Worcester are nmnerous and beautiful. The chief business portion of the city lies in a narrow valley extending north and south, wiiiie the dwellings of the jicoplc arc built in great measure upon the hills which rise n[)on either side. The diversily in the landscape presents a pleasing view to the spectator, whether he takes uj) his positicm upon any one of the many eminences, or whether in his walks or drives he now ascends and descends another, or if, again, in winding around the base of a third, "fresh woods and pastures new " presents themselves to his vision. Winter Hill, lying partly in Hoiden, extends some two miles into the city, is about midway between the eastern and western boundaries, and lies between the old load to Hoiden, and the newer one which skirts the western shore of North Pond. Paine Hill and Green Hill, to the cast of Lincoln Street, arc flanked on the south-east by Millstone Hill. South of the latter comes Chandler Hill, 748.37 feet above tide water and 278 feet above the level of Norwich Street. Farther to the south, across "Pine Meadow," is Oak Hill, and to the south of this is Sagatabscot Hill which extends southerly into Millbury. West from Sagatabscot, and at the angle of tiiat portion of territory set off to help form Auburn a ceutiiry ago, stands Pakachoag, while along the western boundary of the city, stretches Tataesset (or Tatnnck) Hill. These are the ehiefiaiiis, but many a lesser eminelice rears its head l>etween, — some rugged and rocky, some graeefid and grass-grown. Prof. Hitchcock, in his report on the Geology of Massachusetts, says : — " This valley possesses precisely* those features which art is capalilo of rendering extremely fascinating. And there is scarcely to be met with, in this or any other country, a more charming landscape than Worcester presents from almost any of tlic moderately elevated hills that surround it. Tiie high state of agriculture iu every part of the valley, and the One taste and neatness exhibited in all the buildings of this flourishing town, with the great elegance of many ediQces, and the intermingling of so WORKS OF KICK, UAUTON * FALES, WORCESTER MAS ■WASHUIRN IRON COMPANY'S W0KK8, WORCESTER, MASS. LAKES AXD STREAMS. 561 many and fine shade and fruit trees, spread over the prospect beauty of a high order, on whicli ihc rye delights to linger. I have never seen, in a community of equal extent, so few marks of poverty and human degradation as in this v;illt'\- ; and it is this aspect of comfort and independence among all classes that enhances greatly the pleasure with which every true American lieart contemplates this scene, since it must be considered as exhibiting the happy influence of our free institutions." Lnkc Qiiiiisigamond, o\tcndiii2: along the eastern boundary between Worces- ter and Slucwsbmy for about four miles, its banks covered with wood and its waters studded with i.>Uiuds, always appreciated by tho lovers of nature, has now become a Aivorite resort for the i)eo[)lc. and has acquired a national repu- tation from the college regattas which were licld there for several years and whicli were attended by students and their friends in large numbers. The early tiavcllers from the cast, liiiding the lake unfordable, — for it has a depth in sonic parts of eighty feet, — wound around the northern end in their course, but when the Boston and Worcester Turnpike Avas incorporated, in 1806, the straight course adopted by the engineers brought them to a point where tho lake was wide and too deep for an ordinary bridge. A floating bridge was constructed and soon sank in its place ; but a second one, more skilfully built, proved successful. Tlio turnpike was abandoned in 1841, and the county (•ouunissioiiers were petitioned to lay out a county road over the route. The scntiniert of tbo town opposed even the maintenance of a town-wa}', on account of the expense of keeping tho now dilapiehited bridge in repair. The comniis- sioneis, however, in 1815, ordered a town road to be laid out, which compelled the town to rebuild the bridge. But in 1861 tho bridge was removed, and thousands of cartloads of gravel, carted fron the hillsides on the cast and on the west and dumped into the lake, formed a solid causeway over which both man and beast may cross without fear.* The turnpike, leaving the lake, astended the steep slope of Millstone Hill and descending again on the west (the line of Belmont Street), crossed the valley of Hermitage Brook by a causewa)', and, cutting through a high hill west of Fountain Street, came down into Lincoln Square. The toll-gate, just east of the square, was sur- mounted by a loft}' arch on which was the wooden effigy of a goose. Disre- spectful wits pronounced it a fit emblem for the enterprise which had selected so difficult a route. AVeasel Brook enters the city at the north-eastern part by two branches from Iloklen, and, near the north-east corner of North Pond, is re-enforced by the waters of the latter. Taking now the name of ]\Iill Brook, it flows south through Xorthvillc, where it supplies two factories with power, and after serv- ing the Wasliburn and Moen Manufacturing Ctmipany through Salisbury Pond, it is joined by Paine's Brook. But a few years ago Mill Brook was seen on either side of Lincoln Square, and just north of the square was a small island ' The two onibankraents met .Juno 27, \8Cyi ; tho first person to cross was Dr. John Green ; tbo cost of the ranscwiiy w.as SJC).O(U). Tho order of tho county comuiissioncra provided for a foot- path ou tbo Boutb side, but this has not been built. 5G2 CITY OF WORCESTER. dividing tbc stream. Here once stood the first dam built by luimaii liands in Worcester. Capt. John Wing erected ii grist-mill and saw-mill here in 1(383 or 1GS4, and tlic waters of the stream, rostraiued, flowed back over the low land and nearly to the line of Lincoln Street. The dam was taken down in after years, but another, a few rods south from the square, built at a later period, stood until a very few years ago. The brook from Lincoln S(juar(' nearly a mile southward is now straightened in its course and converted into a covered sewer. Prescott Street, continued, and the new location of Union Street, afford no suspicion of the once im|)ortant stream which they cover, and a forebay, also concealed from view, c(im[)ensates the owner of the ancient privilege in some degree for the sacrifice which he has made for tbc general welfare. The only tri'mtary of North Pond of any size is a brook coming from Hol- den, flowing into the most northern corner of the pond and called North Pond Brook. Between Millstone and Green and Paiuo hills flows Bear Brook. A portion of its waters, conveyed in an acpieduct, su|)ply the Asylum for the Chronic Insane on Summer Street ; the remainder flowing through the valley eastward of Summer Street to Laurel Street, turned eastward and joined Mill Brojk just south of School Street. A reservoir at the north-west corner of Laurel and Hanover streets for many years supplied water for a small dam on the west side of Summer Street, where Mr. William Ilovcy in later times carried on the manufacture of hay-cutters. A pond near the south-east corner of School and Union streets supplied power for the machine-shop which still stands on that site. From this point Mill Brook meandered through the plain, and, near the junction of Grafton and Water streets, received the waters of Pine Meadow Brook coming from the north-east part of Chandler Ilill. Flowing through the pond of the ''Red Mills," and receiving Piedmont Brook in the "island district," it continued to South Worcester. Beaver Brook rises in Ilolden, flows westward of Winter Hill and east of the "Stone-house" range through Peat Meadow, where it receives several tributaries, next receives Lincoln Brook (rising in a spring at the corner of Elm and Russell streets), near May Street, and is joined by Tatnuck Brook in Coes's lesser pond. Tatnuck Brook also rises in Holden, flows southward along the eastern base of Tataessct Hill, receives numerous small tributaries and passes through several reservoirs to its junction with Beaver Brook. Kettle Brook comes from Paxton iiV.o Leicester, and, turning eastward after crossing the great road to the latter town, flows beside the road for some two miles, and receiving Lynde Brook in Cherry Valley, soon turns southward into Auburn, receiving Parson's Brook near the town line. Eastward from Stone- ville it is joined by Ramshorn Brook, and returning into the city as "Paka- choag Brook," flows into Curtis's P.md. The waters from this and Coes's ponds unitin" Adw eastward from New Worcester through South Worcester, and COAL AND MINERALS. 563 uniting at the north-east base of Pakachoag Hill with Mill Brook form the Black- stone Kiver. The waters of Lake Quinsigaraond, with other streams from Shrewsbury and Grafton, form the Little Biackstone River, which flows through Grafton and empties into the Blackstoiie in the southern part of that towu. The discover}' of certain sparkling metals, which proved to be salts of iron, arsenic and lead, in the north part of the town, in 1754, led to the belief that a v,ilual)lo mine of silver existed in the hillside. A company was formed to explore (he spot, furnaces and smelting-houses were erected, shafts were sunk and gall ■ries run ; but the cunning superintendent, when he had carried the prolitlcss task as far as it was safe to try the credulity of his employers, departed, ostensilily to consult a person of larger experience ; and, as he never returned, the mine was abandoned. Traces of the forsaken work are still visiljle a few rods east of the Nashua Railroad, just beyond the two-mile post. To the west of Plantation Street, near its junction with Lincoln Street, lies the " Coal Mine," where it is believed by many that a valuable deposit of antliracite coal exists, which will some day be brought to our markets. Says Lincoln : — " It was long converted into a paint under the name of black lead, and furnished a cheap and durable covering for roofs and for the exterior of buildings exposed to tlic weather. In 1826, it was partial!}- explored and began to be worked by Col. Ainos Binnoy. It was found to be a valuable c >mbustible, suitable, even in the impure state presented by the upper strata, for furnaces and places where intense heat and great fires were required. Engagements of business and local circumstances induced him to suspend the prosecution of the undertaking." The Worcester Coal Company was incorporated in February, 1829, for tiic purpose of mining the coal, with leave to hold real estate to the amount of $400,000, and $200,000 personal i)roperty. In the following month Samuel B. Thomas, William E. Green, and Isaac Davis, with their associates, were incorporated as the Worcester Railway Company, with a capital of $50,000 and authority to build a railway from the mine to the waters of Lake Quinsigamond, and another to the banks of the Blackstone Canal. The owner of the farm in which the great mass of the coal was supposed to lie demanded so high a price for his land that the coal company refused to purchase, and the enterprise was aijandoued. The clayey soil of many parts of the city has proved suitable for the manu- facture of brick, which has been an industry of some importance for many years. Peat has been taken in considerable quantity from the South Meadow, on the east side of Sagatabscot Hill, and from Peat Meadow, west of the town ; but the Worcester Peat Company, organized some twenty-five years ago, never declared a dividend fnim its earnings. Millstone Hill furnishes an abundant supply of dark granite, which, though not po[)ular for the walls of buildings, is admirably suited for foundations. 5G4 CITY OF WORCESTER. The rock is compodcd chiefly of gray quartz and white, foliated feldspir, with only traces of mica, l)iit with enough iron to cause the surface to blacken on ( xposure to the air. The proprietors of the town, in Septenii)er, IT.jo, voted "that one hundred acres of the poorest land on Millstone Hill he left coruiuon for the use of the town for building stones." In accordance with this vote the stone has been quarried from that time to the present by such persons as have chosen to do so, and the rights of the people in the premises have been affirmed by the Supreme Court of the Commonwealth. The "South Ledge," near the southern end of Sagatabscot Hill, furnishes a light-colored granite, which has been much used in former years. The fronts of Bntman Row and Granite Row, and the west wall of the main part of the .'•tone court h:)Use, are built of this granite. It has also been much used for curb-stones, posts, steps and other purposes. Argillaceous slate is abundant, and is much used for walls and foundations. The buildings of the Oread Institute are built of this stoue, quarried on the spot. CHAPTER V. CHUKCII IirSTORV PnEACIIIXG OF WHITF.FIELD PASTOKAL SUCCESSION' INGRESS OF UNITARIAX A^IEWS THE BAPTIST DEXOAIINATION CATHOLIC PARISHES METHODIST, FRIENDS', EPISCOPAL AND UNIVERSALIST SOCIETIES CITY MISSIONS. The early historj' of the town is in some measure identified with the history of the church, for the affairs of both were cither mtmaged at the general meetings of the inhabitants, or were settled by concui-rent votes of the church and the town. The first regularly settled pastor was Rev. Andrew Gardner, who was ordained in the autumn of 1719 in the ucwly-erected church on the common. He was a man of eccentric disposition, fond of sports and the chase — a man too worldly-minded, in the opinion of many of his flock, whose ideas of a religious teacher "«erc associated with a different stamp of character. Mr. Gardner had his grievances also, for the grant made on his accepting the office was not forthcoming, and his annual salary was constantly in arrears. The close association of church and state at this time is further shown by the fact that the Legislature was petitioned for aid and relief. Failing to' get help from that S(;urce, an ecclesiastical council was convened, but this also was powerless to solve the difficulty. On further petitions to the General Court that body passed a resolve recommending the same council t) proceed to Worcester, with a view to establish peace in the town. The fear of Indians led the council to meet at Dedhara, and by its advice Mr. Gardner was dismissed, Oct. 31, 1722. After enjoying the ministrations of two or three OLD SOLTH CHURCH, -WOKCnsTKU, MASS., AS IT AITEAHF.D IX 1776. {lillilt ill UHS). EARLY MINISTERS. 5G5 other clergymen, temporarily engaged, the ehiirch elected Rev. Thomas White as their pastor in August, 1724, but the town refused to concur. Rev. Isaac Burr (an uncle of Vice-President Aaron Burr), ordained Oct. 13, 1725, filled the pulpit until JNIarch, 1745. His ministry was generally acceptable, but in the minds of some he failed as an "exhorter," and it was terminated by the mutual desire of himself and the church. George Whitcficld, the inspired preacher, whose fervcut eloquence stirred the souls of men in an almost unparalleled manner, visited Worcester on his second visit to this country, in October, 1740. He was accompanied by Gov. Belcher, who had i)ecome deeply interested in Whitetield. They spent the night of their arrival at the house of Col. Chandler. An extract from the preacher's diary will be of interest here : — " Wcdnegdat/, Oct. 15. Perceived the governor to be more affectionate than ever. After morning prayer, he took me by myself, kissed me, wept, and exhorted me to go on stirring np Ihe ministers ; ' for,' said he, ' reformation must begin at the house of God.' As we were going to meeting, says lie, ' Mr. WhiteGeld, do not spare me any more llian the ministers : no, not the thief of them.' I preached in the open air, on the common, to some thousands ; the word fell with weight indeed ; it carried all before it. After sermon, Ihe governor said to me, ' I pray God I m.ay apply what has been said to my own heart. Pray, Mr. WhiteQeld, that I may hunger and thirst after righteousness.' Dinner being ended, with tears in his ryes he kissed, and took leave of me. Oh, that we may meet in heaven. I have observed that I have had greater power than ordinary whenever the governor has been at public worship. A sign, I hope, that the Most High intends effectually to bring him home and place him at his right hand Was enabled much to rejoice in spirit Preached at Leicester, in the after- noon, 6 miles from Worcester, with some, though not so much power as in the morning." Whether the diminished effect of his exhortations at Leicester should bo traced back to himself or should be laid at the doors of his audience, it is difficult at this distance of time rightly to determine. In the interval between the dismissal of Mr. Burr aud the settlement of his successor, the town instructed its committee to consult the Rev. President and Professors of Harvard College as to whom they should engage in a proba- tionary way — a custom which has not prevailed in later times. A church covenant was adopted Sept. 22, 1740. Rev. Thaddeus Maccarty of Boston was installed as pastor June 10, 1747. He was styled by John Adams, "though a Calvinist, not a l)igot." His minis- trations continu<(l until his death, July 20, 1784. During this period the "Congregational" style of singing, in which each singer employed the tune which he considered best adapted to the hymn, or the one with w-hich he was most familiar, gave place, by a recorded vote of the town, to the system of a regidar choir, who were ordered to sit in the front seats of the gallery. The seats in the church were assigned at tirst accoiding to rank, the town, in 1733, 5GG CITY OF WORCESTER. instructing its committee to consider "a person's usefulness, or the station ho iiolds in ago and pa}', not having regard to phirality of polls, but to real and personal estate." In 1750 an article was inserted in the warrant to give directions that the peo[)le sit in the seats assigned to them, "and that they iln not put themselves too forward." In the house erected in 17(53 the right of selection of pews was given in the order of the subscriptions paid for the new building. DifTcrcnces which arose in the religious faith of the people, and other causes, prevented the settlement of a successor to Mr. Maccarty until Sept. 30, 1790, when the Rev. Samuel Austin was installed. At this time a new creed and covenant were adopted, in which the doctrine of the Trinity, hitherto implicitly believed by the mnjorily, was clearly enunciated. Dr. Austin remaiued hero until 1815, when ho removed to Burlington, Vt., to assume the olfice of Presi- dent of the University of Vermont, though his connection with the parish was not defiiiitelj' terminated until December, 1818. His name is perpetuated here in the appellation of Austin Street, which runs on the south side of the estate which he occupied during the greater part of his ministry. During his resi- dence here his theology was of the strictest sort, but after his removal hi^ became more liberal in his views, as is shown by his later writings. Rev. Charles A. Goodrich, ordained at first as colleague wilh Dr. Austin, Oct. 9, 1816, asked and received dismission Oct. 14, 1820. Rev. Aretius 15. Hull was pastor from May 23, 1821, imtil his death, which occurred May 17, 1826. His successor, Rev. Rodney A. Miller, pastor from June 7, 1827, to April 12, 1844, continued to reside in Worcester for a portion of each year until his death, which occurred at Troy, in September, 1876. The succeeding ministers of this church have been: Rev. George P. Smith, March 19, 184r), until his death, Sept. 3, 1852; Rev. Horace James, Feb. 3, 1853, to Jan. 8, 1803, when his relations were severed on account of his absence with the army as Chaplain of the 25th Regiment Massachusetts Volunteers; Rev. Edw.ird A. Walker, July 2, 18G3, to Sept. 20, 1865; Rev. Royal B. Stratton, Jan. 2, 1867, to April 25, 1872; Rev. Nathaniel Mighill, Sept. 15, 1875, until the spring of 1877, and Rev. L. B. Voorhccs, who was installed as the thirteentli pastor June 15, 1877, but whom ill health has recently compelled to resign lii> ollice. The society worshipping at the Old South Church, as well as all those orthodox societies which have existed in Worcester, have curried on their ministry and government "after the Congregational way." Since the abandon- ment of the Presbyterian church above referred to there has been no society in Worcester afGliated with that school of church government. Rev. Aaron Bancroft,* a native of Reading, was invited to supply the Old South pulpit during the illness of Rev. Mr. Maccarty in the summer of 1783. * Tlio tliirteen children of Dr. Bancroft and Lncretia Cliandler, his wife, included Eliza, wife of lion. John Davis, and George, the diplomat and historian. UNITARIAN VIEWS. 567 He preached again as a candidate for the vacancy wiiich bad arisen, in the autnmn of 1784. The following January he came again, and at a meeting held in March, a motion was made to settle him as the minister. But the majority of the parish were Trinitarians, while Mr. Bancroft held Unitarian views, and \hi' motion failed. Ilis supporters, who included many families of influence and weight, requested permission of the town to form another society, hut this was refused. "Under these circumstances (in the language of a memorial sul)sequently addressed to the Legislature), seeing no prospect of union, desir- ous of a minister whose sentiments they approved, wishing the same indulgence 10 those dilfcring from them, weary of unprofitable contention," the minority wiihdrew, and on the third Sunday of March, 1785, began to hold meetings in the court-house, where they continued to meet until Jan. 1, 1792. At tins time they took possession of the church building erected for their use on Siiinmcr Street, — a building subsequently converted into a hotel, but for thirty \(:irspasf used as a school-house. The new organization met with little sym[)athy in the neighboihood or in the State. At the ordination of Dr. Bancroft, Feb. 1. 178(5, the only two clergymen of the county whom it had been considered Mile to ask to assist, were Rev. Timothy Harrington of Lancaster, who gave the charge to the people, and Rev. Zabdiel Adams of Lunenburg, who extended llie right hand of fellowship. The old parish continued to demand the payment of ministerial rates from the associates in the new one, and stoutly resisted the cHorts to effect a legal separation; but in November, 1787, an act of incorpora- tidu was ol)tainod from the Legislature, and from that time the society has been known as tbe Second Parish. Dr. Bancroft was, for the first years (tf his ministry, almost "a stranger in a strange land." His religious views were unpopular with very many of the townspeople, and the number of clergymen iiiywhcrc with whom he could cxcliango pulpits was very limited. In time, lidwever, the Unitarian denomination increased throughout the State, and more 1( niency was shown them by those of a more rigid faith. He continued to minister to his flock for the long term of fifty-three and one-half years, until tiicir mutual relations were severed by his death, Aug. 19, 1839. Rev. Alonzo Hill * w:is ordained as colleague with Dr. Bancroft March 28, 1827, and I'etained Ills connection with the society nearly forty-four years, or until his death, Feb. 1, 1871. Rev. Edward II. Ilall, installed as colleague with Dr. Hill, Feb. 10, ■ Vr Hill wiis liorn at Harvard, Juno 20, IROO, and was graduated at Harvard College in 1822. 11 ■ was for more than twenty-five years a member of the scliool committee. He received tlio d. ;;reu of Doctor of Divinity at Cambridge iu 1651. His elKiracter is well summed up iu a resolu- lu'.ioii passed by the American Antiquarian Society, of which lie was recording secretary. I)earing '■ listiniony to the fact that, as a patriotic citizen, and as the beloved pastor of one of the principal (lunches in this city for more than forty. years. Dr. Hill was eminently faithful iu the fulfilment (il I very duty ; that ho was remarkable for his unfailing kindness and geniality of manners and I'll ling to all cla.sses of people, whether parishioners or only neighbors and fellow-citizens, and t'"V the earnestness and ability with which he advocated every measure for the iiromotion of education and good morals — contLiiuing, until the last moment of consciousness, to mauifeat the tame interest in the welfare of others that marked and distinguished his life." 5G8 CITY OF WORCESTER. 18G9, continues to fill the position of pastor nt (he present time. The society moved from Summer Street in August, 1821), ti> a new lirick ihurv.h which had licen erected on Court Ilill. This was destroyed l)y fire in the evening of Aug. 24, 1840, and the present edifice, built of brick, covered with mastic, was dedicated March 2fi, 1851. • The establishment of the Second Paris.ii and society was followed in Xovcm- her, 1812, by that of the first Baptist Society. James Wilson, the father of the movement, came to Worcester from Newcastle-U[)on-Tyne in 171)5. Hero he I'onnd three sympathizers with his religious tenets, and in process of time accessions were made, either from new arrivals or from those members of Dr. A ustin's pari-:h, who had become disaffected by reason of his political sentiuKMits, which he had expressed in terms too strong for their taste. Elder William Bentlcj", who came from Tiverton, R. I., was installed as pastor of t'.ic new society, the services being held in the Unitarian Church. The number of original members was twenty-nine. The first church of the society, built iip.m the site of the present one, was erected in 1813, enlarged in 1827, and burned in 1836. A new church was begun at once, completed in the following sum- mer, and enlarged in the winter of 18G7-8 to its present dimensions. Elder Bentley remained but three years. His successor. Rev. Jonathan Going, settled in November, 1815, remained for sixteen j'ears, during which time he taught the Latin school for one year, labored efHciently in the cause of school education, and, it is said, established the first Sunday-school in the comity. Ilis successors have been: Rev. Jonathan Aldrich, Oct. 27, 1835, to May, 1838; Rev. Samuel B. Swain, April, 1839, to May 4, 1854; Rev. J. D. E. Jones, April 1, 1855, to April, 1850; Rev. Lemuel Moss, Aug. 30, 18G0, to September, 18G4 ; Rev. Hiram K. Pcrvear, Ma}', 18G5, to Januar}-, 1873 ; and Rev. Benjamin D. Marshall, the present pastor, installed Jlay 1(!, 1873. The second serious secession from the Old South Church t.)ok place in Jan- uar}', 1810. The Calvinist Church was constituted Aug. 17, 1820, and on the 8th of February, 1822, the Calvinist Society was organized, the fir-t meeting for worship being held in the court-house on the first Sunday of April, 1822. Rev. Loanimi Ives Hoadley, who had supplied the pulpit for some time pre- viousl}', was e a prey to our enemies. We arc informed that it is objected ajiainsl our having assistance, that Brooklield. Uiitland and L;-icoster defend us; but let anyone consider that understands t lie ground. It is allii-nic'd to me by those that should be best able to know, that it is fouitccn miles from Biookficld to Rutland, and that a line drawn from Brookdeld to liulland will be Oftcoii miles oir our soUlcment. As to Leicester, the people there more need lieli> fiom us liian are able to render us any, as likewise do Shrewsbury and Ilasaauamesit. Rutland and IJrookfiold lieing well garrisoned and manned, what is more common than for them (the enemy) to go a lillle fuilher for advantage in weaker spots? The late 574 CITY OF WORCESTER. instance at Hatfield, as well as manj' others formerly and lately, are snfliciont witnesses. If we cannot be supported now about our harvest, we must be starved out of necessity'. Instead of assistance, we cannot but remind your honor, that we now have five of our soldiers at Rutland in the service. We are informed by rumor, we are allowed ten soldiers, for which we are thankful ; but pray, it be possible, that the number might be doubled, and that they might be sent as speedily' as possible. I am ashamed I detain your honor so long. I shall conclude bj* wishing jou all prosperity. I am j-our honor's to command, Gershom Rice." Although these two petitions were strenoiisly supported by Col. Cliandicr, the niimher of similar demands prevented a prompt compliance with the request ; but, in the month of Jul3', Col. Chandler was directed to impress twenty men tor frontier service. A portion of these, with detachments from other regiments, — a total force of nineteen men, acting as independent guards, — were stationed at Worcester, where they remained nntil disbanded, Oct. 29, 1724. The Indians, who had retired to Canada for the winter, made their way southward again in the following spring. Ai)ril 30, 1725, the selectmen again addressed Gov. Dummer, expressing their apprehension that unless they were alTorded some relief, " tiie corn camiot be planted, the earth tilled, the harvests gathered or food provided, and that the settlements in the town will be entirely broken up," and asking for "some speedy assistance of soldiers, to defend ns and scout the woods." This request was complied with during the following month ; but, although there were frequent alarms, and Indians were seen prowling occasionally in the neighborhood, no actual conflict took ])lace, and the conclusion of a peace in the ensuing winter freed the inhabitants from further fear of invasion, and allowed them to plant their corn and gather their harvests without dread. In the army of four thousand men which the Massachusetts Colony fitted out, under Gen. William Pe[)perell, in 174.5, for the conquest of Cai)e Breton, Worcester was represented. What was her exact quota is not known ; but one of her citizens, Benjamin Gleason, fell before the walls of Louisbtirg, then styled "the Gibraltar of North America," and Adonijah Rice, the fir.-t native of the town, served during the campaign which resulted in the surren- der of the stronghold. Sept. 23, 1746, a town meeting here was disturbed by the arrival of a messenger sent b^^ Gov. Shirley to carry the alarm of the French invasion. Before sunset the whole military force was collected and ready for the march, which a second messenger proiu)imced unnecessary. Eight soldiers from Worcester formed part of the garrison of Fort Massa- chusetts, at Williamstown, then called Hoosick, from December, 1747, to March, 1748. In the summer of 1748 a company of fifty-three soldiers from Worcester, under Major Daniel Heywood, joined a force detailed to drive the marauding Indians back to Caiuida. They returned after an al)sence of seventeen days, during which time the red-skins withdrew without venturing to give battle. THE FRENCH WAR. r>75 In 1754 thirteen Worcester lueii were in service at forts on the Kennebec River. In 1755 seventeen soldiers from tills town were in the British service in Nova Scotia, and seventeen at Fort Cnml)erland. Adonijah Rice and another toolt part in tlie tirst expedition against Crown Point in August, and in September fourteen soldiers were impressed for the army. Of the unfortunate people of Acadia who were driven from their homes l)y New England soldiers, acting under royal command, in 1755, eleven were billeted upon Worcester, where their disticsscd condition excited sympath}', and their character and habits respect. The elder o;ics of these exiles died of old age and broken hearts. The survivors joined their countrymen in Canada, after a sojourn here of about twelve years. A goodly number of soldiers enlisted here in 175(), to swell the arm}' raised to act against Crown Point. Regimental head-quarters were established here, the troops living in tents which whitened the hillsides. James Putnam, one of the greatest lawyers of the day, afterwards attorney-general of the province, led the militia companies of the town, with other levies, westward, setting out on the 30th of September. They halted at Westfield to be joined by the troops of Hampshire; but before the latter were ready to move, word came that their services would not be needed, and they returned. In 1757 the appearance of a French fleet off the coast at one time, and at another the siege of Fort William Henry kept the colonists continually in a state of military preparation. On the fall of the fort two companies of Worcester militia, — one of fifty-six men, under Col. John Chandler, and another of fifty-four men, under his brother Gardner Chandler, — marched to Sheffield, in the western part of the province, to support the regular troops in resisting the French, should they, as seemed probable, invade the State. In the same campaign eight of our men served in a troop of cavalry, under Lieut. Jonathan Newhall of Leicester, which joined the regular army at Fort Edward, and ten others enlisted and served in the army. Altogether, Worcester furnished one hundred and thirty men in this year, the largest number in any one year prior to the Revolution. The militia who went to Sheffield were soon dismissed. In 1758 Worcester furnished twenty men for duty. In 1759 twenty-three non-commissioned officers and privates served in a company of which Daniel McFarland was lieutenant, and afterwards captain, in the campaign of Gen. William Amherst ; and the whole number from the town, doing military duty, was forty-three. In 1760 the number was seventeen, twenty-six in 17(51, and only eight in 1762, the closing year of the war which wrested from France all ber American possessions east of the Mississippi, except some fishing stations near Newfoundland. 57G CITY OF WORCESTER. CHAPTER VII. Tin; WAK OF THE REVOLUTION POPULAR DEMANDS FEMALE ACTION DIFFICULTY WITH COURTS WATCHING OF TORIES THE EXPUNGED RECORD HUMILIATION OF ROYALISTS THE ALARM OF CONCORD AND LEXINGTON — RECEPTION OF THE DECLARATION — A WARM CELEBRATION CONSTITUTION RATIFIED REJOICINGS AT PEACE. Worcester has ever been loyfil to the government so long as that govern- ment, by its course of policy, has commanded her respect; bnt the first nianifcstions of injustice or tyranny have always met with her indignant pro- test or her sturdy resistance. When in 1754 a bill was proposed in the Colonial Legislature, imposing an excise duty on wines and spirits, and con- taining the cxtraordinar}' provision that every householder should render an account, under oath, of the amount of such liquor used in his family, not purchased of a licensed vendor, and should pay a duty thereon, a town meeting here unanimously resolved that it was "contrary to the mind of the town " that the bill should become a law, and John Chandler, the town's representative, was instructed to oi)pose it. The famous "Stamp Act," passed by the British Parliament March 22, 1705, to take ctloct November 1 , excited the same indignation here that it did through- out the Colonies, and at a town meeting held Oct. 21, Ca|)t. Ephraim Doo- liltlc, the representative, was instructed to join in no measure countenancing the act. '1 hat the government which they had helped with their blood and treasure to maintain, should be one of equitable "laws and not of men," had now become a fixed idea with the people of AYorcester. At the town meeting in May, 17f>f), the representative, Capt. Doolittle, was instructed to use the whole of hi- influence and endeavor, that no person holding any fee or military office, what- ever, be chosen into the Provincial Council ; that the General Court be held in an open manner; that a new fee-table be established, not giving to any officer except tlie Governor "more or less than 3'OU would be willing to do the same service for, yourself"; that one man be not invested with more than one office at a time, except it be compatible with the true interests of the people ; that the excise law bo repealed ; with other iustructions breathing a similar spirit. At the May meeting in 17G7 the town issued instructions to Joshua Bigclow, its representative-elect, the first two articles of which were as follows : — " 1. That you use your influence to maintain and continue that harmony and gooil will between Great Britain and this province [which] may be most conducive to the prospciily of eacli, by a steady and firm attachment to English liberty and the charter rights of this province, and [that] you willing!}' suffer no invasions, either through pretext of precedency, or an}- other way whatsoever : and if you find any encroachraen s on our charter rights, that you use jour utmost ability to obtain constitutional redicss. PATRIOTIC SPIRIT. 577 " 2. That you use your influoncc to obtain a law to put an end to that unchinstian and iini)olUic practice of making slaves of tlie human species in tiiis province; and that you give your vote for none to serve in his majesty's Council, who, you may have reasoa to think, will use their influence against such a law, or that sustain any office incom- patible with such trust : and in such choice, prefer such gentlemen, and such only, who have distinguished themselves in the defence of our liberty." lie was also instructed to use liis influence to reduce the fee-table of tlio Province ; to relieve the people from sustaining so many Latin grMiniuar- Echools ; to inquire into the general neglect of the militia, and "endeavor a redress" of the grievance, " witliout which, wc apprehend, in time wo may bo made an easy prey of by the eucniies of Great Britain"; to take special care of the liijcrty of the press, and endeavor to make this Province reciprocally happy with our mother country. The icpcal of the Stamp Act had been followed, in June, 1707, by a measure even more odious, — the act imposing duties on paper, glass, tea and other commodities imported into the Colonies. While the majority of the people were restive under the harsh measures inaugurated by the mother country, many of the tnore influential citizens, including the Chandlers, Paiucs, James Putnam and others were loyal to the British Government, and sustained its measures. At a town meeting in JIarch, 17l)8, au attempt to endorse the resolves of the Legislature, encouraging domestic manufactures, and dissuading the people from purchasing the articles sulyect to import duty, failed, through: '■parliamentary tactics." But a paper was soon after put iu circulation and generally signed, in which the subscribers solemnly promised and engaged, "each with the other, to give all possilde encouragement to our own manufac- tures : to avoid paying the tax imposed by s-aid act, by not buying !»">' Euro- pean commodity, but what is absolutely necessary ; that we will not, at funerals, use any gloves except those made here, or purchase any article of mourning, on such occasion, but what shall be absolutely necessary; and wc consent to abandon the use, so far as may be, not only of all the articles mentioned in the Boston resolves, but of all foreign teas, which arc clearly superfluous, our own fields aboimding in herbs more healthful, and which we doubt not, may, by use, be found agreeable : we fmlher promise and engage, that we will not- ' purchase any goods of any per-sons, who preferring their own interest to that I of the public, shall import merchandize from Great Britain, until a general 1 importation takes place ; or of any trader who purchases his goods of such i importer: and that we will hold no intercourse, or connexion, or correspond- ' once, with any person who shall purchase goods of such iuipjrtcr or retailer ; I and wc will hold him dishonored, an enemy to the liberties of his country and infamous, who shall break this agreement." The patriotic ladies of the town held the first " woman's rights' meeting " . recorded in our annals, and agreed to give up the use of tea, substituting a native bhrub — " Labrador tea" — in its place. The royalists, however, con-. VOL. II.— 73 578 CITY OF WORCESTER. vencil another assembly, which reconsidered the action of the female patriots; but pnlilic s^cntinient was stronger than tea, and those who insisted on indulging in the cheering cup, did so hy btealth and in secret. During the live years succeeding 17G8 stirring events took place in Boston, and in other parts of the Colonies. Worcester was und<)ul)ledly represented at the convcnlioM of delegates from the different towns which met in Boston on Sept. 22, 17G8, called on account of "a prevailing apprehension of Avar wilh France." The landing of two regiments of troops at Boston a few dajs later, the adjournment of the Assembly to Cambridge, by Gov. Bernard, in the following year, and the "State Street Massacre" in 1770, helped to kcci) the public mind inflamed. A town meeting was held in March, 1773, to consider the "Boston Pam|)hlct," in which .a large committee of the popular leaders of that town had recited the grievances which Massachusetts liad suffered since the accession of the reigning sovereign. In accordance wilh its suggestions, William Young, Timothy Bigclow, and John Smith were chosen a. " Conmiitteo of Correspondence," to correspond wilh similar committees in other towns in the Province. "Tlic Amciicaii Political Socict\- " was formed Dec. 27, 1773, to advise with each other on proper methods to be (xirsucd respecting iheir common rights and liberties, civil and religious. Tliirl3'-onc respeitable citizens joined this Society at the outset, and the number was afterwards increased to seventy-one. Its proceedings were strictly secret, and much of the business of the town njeelinga was " cut and dried " by this society during the two and one-half years of its existence. The term of the Superior Court for the county of Worcester was to be held in April, 1774. The chief justice, Peter Oliver, had been i)resonted for impeachment by the Assembl}-, because lie had confessed (o receiving the bounty of the crown, independently of the grants of the General Court. It was believed that he would be present to hold the court. The operations of the society and its mysterious ability to prognosticate future events are well shown by its vote of April 4, 1774 : — "This society will each one bear and pay their equal part of the fine and charges that may be laid on Messrs. Joshua Bigelow and Timothy Bigclow, for their refusal to be cniijanuclcd upon the Grand Jury at our next Superior Comt of Assize, for llio county of Worcester, if they shall be chosen into that office, and their refusal is founded upon the principle, that Ihoj' cannot, consistently wilh goo;l conscience and order, seivc, if Peter Oliver, Esq., is present on the bench as chief justice, or judge of said court, before lie is lawfully tried and acquitted from the high crimes and charges for which he now stands impeached by the honorable House of Representatives, and the major part of the grand jurors for the whole county join them in refusing to serve for the reasons aforesaid." By what to the uninitiated would appear a remarkable coincidence, Iho Slessrs. Bigclow were chosen, and a majority of the jurors, to the number of fifleeu, joined them in offering a paper at the opening of the Court, giving VASIl Ill-UN & MOKV M'fV, CO.'S WORKS, GROVE ST., WOKCESTKK, MAS (Front View.) »^JpSjJ|^C6^ WASIllllKN- .t .MOF.N JI'f'G CO.'.S WORKS, OltOVK ST., WORCE.STKH, M.\.1 (Rear View.) VIGOROUS RESISTANCE. 579 (heir reasons in detail for refusing to serve. Fortunately, Judge Oliver failed to appear, and so ihe jury consented to serve. At the monthly meeting of the Polilical Society in June, it w.as voted to sign a covenant not to purchase any English goods until the port of Dostou was opened, and to discontinue intercourse with those declining to subscribe. In August, it was voted, "that Nathan Perry he moderator of our next town meeting, if he should be chosen : in case he should refuse, then Josiali Pierce shall preside." The seleclracn were directed f. rthwith to examine the town's stock of ammunition, and ascertain its quality and quantity. A committco was chosen to present to the inhabitants an obligaliou to be completely armed, and to enforce its execution. December ^Ih, Joshua liigelow was instructed to lay before the County Congress the refusal of Gardner Chandler to sign the Soleuni League and Covenant. Sept. 5, 1775, a committee, consisting of Samuel INIcCrackcn, Josiali Peirce, David Bigelow, Samuel Woodburn and Nathan Daldwin, was chosen to inspect the Tories going and coming from Lancaster or any other way. JIany of the most active and intelligent members of this patriotic league had entered the army, and the influence of the Loyalists, or "Tories" had become very much diminished. For these causes and on accomit of some petty dissensions in their own ranks, the society was dissolved in the spring of 177G. At the town meeting in March, 1774, a resolution was adopted, refusing to buy, sell, or in any way to l)e concerned wilh India teas of any kind, until the act imposing such duty be repealed ; and also resolving to break ofl" all commircial intercourse with those persons, in this or any other place, who should act counter to these resolutions; and further n^solving that " wc have an indisputable right, at this time, and at all times, boldly to assert our rights and make known our grievances, being sensible that the freedom of speech and sccmity of property ahva3-s go together." A protest against the resolution, signed by twenty-six Royalists, is spread upon Ihe town records. Joshua Bigelow, elected to the Legislature in May of this year, was instructed not to be intimidated by any acts of the crown ; to resist the most distant approaches to slavery, and also any attempt to compensate the East India Company for the loss of its tea: to aim at securing a strict union of tho Colonics and the formation of a general Congress; also to endeavor to prose- cute t!;e impeachment of Peter Oliver, the obnoxi jus judge. A most strenuous clTort was made by the Royalists to defeat the passage of these instructions ; but they were out-voted by the Patriots, or Whigs. The former, persistent, sent a iietition, signed by forty-three freeholders, to the selectmen, asking ftr another meeting, to reconsider the action of the former one and to examine into the proceedings and conduct of "certain persons styling themselves tho Committee of Correspondence for the town." The meeting, held Juno 30, 580 CITY OF WORCESTER. was of a very stormy nature; but, after a long debate, a majority voted against tiking an}' action upon the matters contained in the pclitinn. A protest signed by fift^'-two inhabitants — about one-fifth of the whole iuMnl)cr of voters — was presented and refused. Clark Chandler, Esq., the town clerk at th;it time, himself one of the most lojal of all the Tories, entered a copy upon the town records ; but, in accordance with a vote of the town, passed at a meeting called for llic purpose and held on the 22d of August, and by adi.)urimiont i:n the 2-lth, the offending clerk was compollod to obliterate and deface with his ])en the obnoxious record : an act to wiiich he gave tlic coup-de-rjrace by (lipping his fingers in the ink and drawing them across the page.* The protest h:is been handed down to the present time, however: for it had already been printed in the "Boston Xews Letter" and the "JLissacbuseits G.izette." The d >cument is a sufficiently curious indication of the views of the conservative l)arty of the time to justify its reproduction in full, as it appeared in print: — '■'■Messrs. Printers: — If you please you iiiav give the following protestation of us a few fiieiids of tiiilli, peace ami order, a place in your pa|)er : for it is believed lliat we and many others tbro\igli the Province, have too long already held our (jcace. "At a meeting of the inhabitants of the town of Worcester, held there on the 20111 daj' of June, A. D., 1771, inu'suant to an application made to the Selectmen by ■!"■ voters and freeholders of the same town, dated the 20th day of Ma}' last, then in among other things, declaring their just apprehensions of the fatrd consequenees tli it mny follow the many riotous and seditious actions (hat have of late times been done and perpelrated in divers places within this Province ;• the votes and proceedings of which meeting arc by us deemed irregular and arbitrary : AVhercforc we, some of n subscribing, thinking it our indispensable duty, in these times of discord and confusion ill too many of the towns within this Province, to bear testimony in the most open and unreserved manner against all riotous, disorderly and seditious practices, must tlierefoie now declare, that it is with the deepest concern for public peace and order, that we bthold so many, whom we used to esteem sober, peaceable men, so far deceived, deluded and led astray, by the artful, crafty and insidious practices of some evil- minded an' of your meeting, then, and in that case, yon arc to consider the people of this province as absolved, on tlipir part, from the obligation tbsrein con- tained, and to all intents and purposes reduced to a state of nature : and yo:i are t) exert yourself in devising ways and means to raise from the dissolution of llio olil c •nstitution, as from the ashes of the Plienix, a new form, wherein all ollieers shall ho di'pendcnt on the siifTrages of the people for their existence as such, whatever nijf.ivor- a'llo constructions our enemies may put upon such procedure. The exigency of our public aflairs leaves us no other alternative from a slate of anarchy or slavery." BRITISH PRISONERS. 583 There is little doubt that an excpedition against Worcester was contemplated Iiy Gen. Gage, like that against Concord, to capture the military stores known to 1)0 collected here. The rcp:)rt of two British officers who visited tlie town in citizen's dress, to examine the roads thither and make topographical sketches, was fonnd in Boston after the hasty evacuation of that town. On the memorable 19th of April, 1775, the arrival of a messenger, riding a white horse, and crying, "To arras! to arms! the war has boTiin!" — the prompt ringing of the church-bells, and the discharge of cannon — sum- moned the citizens together. The "minute-men" paraded promptly np-in tln^ commf)n, and after prayer by Rev. Thaddcus Maccarty, the parisli cler- gyman, tofik up their line of march under Capt. Timothy Cigelow, seventy-nino men all told, — a force whom regular drill had brought to a state of discipline wliicli received the commendations of the superior officers, who afterwards reviewed them at Cambridge, and of Gen. Washington himself. Capt. Ljcnj. riagg, with a company of thirty-one men, soon followed. Receiving intelli- gence of the retreat of the British, the two companies marched to Cambridge, where most of the men enlisted in the army which was at once organized, Capt. Bigelow becoming major in the regiment of Col. Jouallian Ward, and fifly-ninc men enlisting in a company under Capt. Jonas Hubbard in the samo regiment. Four commissioned officers and one i)rivato joined Col. Crafts' regiment of artillery, and seventeen others enlisted in other organizations dniing the year. The Committee of Correspondence, now constituting a tribunal of almost unlimited sway, kept the Lo\-ali-its, who did not llec to L'oston at the op;>ning of the war, under carefid suivcillance. 0:i the 2l8t of April, the committeo summoned those remaining in town before them, and took their assurances that they would not leave town without permission of the selectmen. On tho 8th of May the committee reporteil that William Cam[)bell, who had broken his agreement, should l)c arrested and sent to Watertown or Cambridge, to be dealt with as Congress or the commander-in-chief should decide ; also that an f)ppor- tunity should be given the other Royalists, of whom nineteen were mentioned by name, to redeem their character by joining the American troops, or finding others to serve in their stead. The opportunity thus offered was not embraced, and accordingly, some two weeks later, twenty-nino persons, duly summoned by the sheriff, were disarmed and again forbidden to leave tho town. In this month (May, 1775,) fifteen British prisoners-of-war were sent to bo confined in the jail at Worcester, and other instalments came during the year. Some of these, allowed liberty under jiarolc, were permitted to work for tho citizens, thus supplying the places of those who were in the patriot army. In the tmfortnnate expedition against Quebec, led by Col. Arnold througli the wilds of Elaine and Canada, .Maj. Timothy Bigelow, Capt. Jonas Ilnbbard and twelve soldiers from Worcester took a part. Capt. Hubbard and Timothy Wesson perished from wounds received in tho attack, Scrgt. Silas Wessou 584 CITY OF WORCESTER. was killed, and Maj. Bigelt)W and the rest were made prisoners and held as captives until November of the followiii;^ year. In January, 177G, the town assumed, for the time, the prerogative of a State, by electing Samuel Curtis and William Young to act as justices of the peace for the preservation of order and the i)unishmcnt of crime. In the same month thiity-two men were drafted to re-enforce the army investing LJoston. On the 23d of May, in town meeting, it was voted unanimously that "if the C(intinontal Congress should declare the American colonies independent of Great Britain, we will support the measure with our lives and fortunes." In Jinie the General Court made a requisition upon the town for fifty-six men from the alarm and trainband lists, and early in Jul\' another for every twcnty- lil'th man upon the lists, for service in the northern departments. The bounty of the soldiers from this town was fixed at nine pounds, in addition to the allowance from the Colony. But Worcester's red-letter day of the eighteenth century' was Saturday, the 13th of July, 177G, when the messenger bearing a copy of the Declaration of Independence towards Boston stopped to bait his horse, and it was I'cad to a hastily assembled throng by Isaiah Thomas, Esq., from the west porch of tlie Old South Meeting-House. It was read again, in the church, on the next day, at the close of service, and was printed, for the first time in New England, in the "Massachusetts Spy"* of the 17th. On the 22d of the month a formal cclel)ration of the great event was held, which is thus reported by the " Spy " : — "On Monila}' last a number of patriotic geutlcmen of this town, animated with a love of Ihcir counlr}-, and to show their approbation of llie measures lately talccn by the Grand Council of America, assembled on the Green, near the libertj- pole, wlierc. after having displayed the colors of the thirteen confederate colonics of America, the hells were set ringing and the drums a beating: After which, the Declaration of Indc()end- ence of the United Slates was read to a large and respectable body, among whom were the selectmen and committee of correspondence, assembled on the occasion, who tesUDcd their approbation by repeated huzzas, firing of musketry and cannon, bonfires and other demonstrations of joy ; When the arms of that t^yrant in Britain, George tlie III., of execrable memory, wliich in former times decorated, but of late disgraced the court house in this town, were committed to the flames and consumed to ashes ; after which, a select comi)any of the sons of freedom, repaired to the tavern, latel}" known by the sign of the King's Arms, which odious signature of despotism was taken down by order of the people, which was cheerfully complied widi by the innkeeper, where the following toasts were drank ; and the evening spent with joy, on the commencement of the happy era " Among the toasts were the following : — '• George rejected and liberty protected. Sore eyes to all tories, and a eliestnut hurr * A f;ic-similo of tliis niimlipr of the " Spy" is boiiiid in with Mr. Paine's " Historical Notes." In tho Kahio unmbor Mi^ssrs. .ShcpbL-nl anil limit inl'orm thu public tbat the copartuersbip bctwecu them and Dr. William raiuo is " dcsolvcd." KESIDKNCE l)F A. MACILI.KH, WOKL'KSTEit, MASS. RESIDENCE OF OEOKOE CHOMPTOX, WORCESTEll, MASS. NEW GOVERNMENT APPROVED. 585 for an eye stone. Perpelual itching, without tlie benefit of scratching, to the enemies of America. May the enemies of America be laid at her feet. May llie freedom and indi'pcndency of America endure, till the sun grows dim with age, and this earth returns to chaos "The greatest decency and good order was observed, and at a suitable lime each man returned to his respective home." At a town meetiun;, held September 30, the town declined to act upon the proposition to form a State government. In the autumn and early winter of this year, Worcester responded to fre- quent calls fur troops. Besides those lu other organizations, lifty-four men served in Capt. William Gates's company, in New York, and twenty-four in Col. Crafts" artillery regiment. Early in 1777 Worcester answered a draft of one-seventh, and in August a draft of one-sixth of its male inhabitants above the age of sixteen. Some of these marched through Bennington towards Ticonderoga, but were ordered back to rc-cnforcc Gen. Stark, and arriving at Benuiuglon on the da}' after the battle, performed the duly of guarding the British prisoners. In August seventy-three men, including Lieut. -Col. Benjamin Flagg and Capt. David Chadwick, advanced to Iladley on the way to Albany, to resist Gen. Burgoyne, but, the danger being over, returned. In January, 1778, the town voted unanimously in approval of the articles of Confederation of the United States. In April the State Constitution approved by the General Court was rejected, receiving but eight votes in its favor out of fifty-eight. The act banishing forever such citizens as had left the State and joined the enemy included the names of John Chandler,* James Putnam, Rufus Chandler, William Chandler, Adam Walker and William Paine, from Worcester. In March, 1779, £2,000 was assessed to support the war, and later in the year £^),'200 was borrowed to pay bounties. A town meeting in August endorsed the action (jf a convention previously held at Concord to consult on measures for the relief of the people from the distress experienced from the de[)reciation of the currency, the exorbitant price of uecessaries and the (li-trust of credit. Resolutions were passed condemning the "regrators in the public markets, forestallcrs, engrossers of the produce of the country and higlers," pronouncing them "pestilential mushrooms of trade," and declaring tliat such persons should not bo admitted to take part in any mercantile consultation. Levi Lincoln, Joseph Allen and David Bigelow were elected delegates to • J»bn Chandler, like his father and fjrandfather of tho same name, held judicial and many liduciary olliccs. Ho was father of seventeen children, including Rufus and William almvo named. Ho left estates, which were conliscatcd, valued at tho very largo sum of £1I7,G5'J; yet, in presenting his claim to tho British commission appointed to malio compensation to the exiles, he rcturnc'd a sehednlo of but £11,037 in real and personal estate, and his indirect losses at about jCr>,OllO more ; a couipousatiou so exceptionally moderate that ho received tho name of " the honest refugee." VOL. 11.— 74 586 CITY OF WORCESTER. tlic convciiliou for framing a State Constitution. This Constitution was ratilied by the people of ihc State in the spring of 1779, though some of its aiticlcs were njected I)y the people (jf Worcester. At the first election of State ofBcers, in Se|)tenil)er, Hancock received 5(! votes for governor and Bowdoin 20 ; for lieutenant-governor, James Warren 23 and Artenias Ward 28. The recoid for the remaining years of the war is one of frequent requisitions for soldiers, blankets and sui)[)lics, of raising money for expenses and bounties. The whole numlier of men from the town who were in the service, including both those in the regular line and those called out for short periods of duty, is given by Lincoln as follows: 1 colonel, 2 lieutenant-colonels, 2 majors, 7 captains, 10 lieutenants, 5 ensigns, 20 sergeants and 389 jirivates. The eight long years which had tried the souls of the people, and had coni[)el!cd them to offer many sacrifices and to undergo countless privations, were at last ended. On the 7th of May, 1788, the return of peace was cele- brated by ringing the church bells and a salute of thirteen guns at sunrise and sunset, a diinier at the Sun Tavern, at which thirteen "sentimental toasts" were given, each accomi)anicd liy a discharge of cannon ; and a ball in the evening, " where the ladies made a brilliant appearance, and heartily joined their c.Ni)rcssitaid its time b}- special request of Gen. Dix. Majcn- Devens had left tlicm on the L'ilh (jf July, to take command of the 1.3th Regt., and the battalion came home under command of Capt. Spraguc. Tliey were received with hearty enthusiasm. A military escort, consisting of the veteran mom!)ers of the Cily Guards, Light Infantry and Emmctt Guards, and several companies of the 15lh and 21st Regts., which were Onming here, the whole commanded by Lieut. Col. Ward, of the loth, led them to the City Hail for breakfast. A street parade followed, and then the battalion, drawn up tant-Siii-gaoii, S. Foster Haven, Jr.; Quartermaster- Sergeant, Wm. R. Steele; Band-JIaster, N. P. Goddard ; Hospital Steward, Henry Doering. Of the line, Co. D from Wor- cester was conunandcd by John M. Stndlcy, with Edwin P. Woodward and John AVm. Grout as Lieutenants. Capt. Goorgc C. Joslin, of Worcester, commanded Co. I of Webster, and .A.mo=5 Barllctt was 2d Lieut. The regi- ment reached Washington on the lOlh of August, and campe I for two weeks at JIcrid!;m Hill. They then moved to the vici.iity of Poolsvil'e, JId., where they were occupied in jjicketiiig the Potomac River, until the disastrous battle of Ball's BliilT, which occurred on Monday, Oct. 21st. In this engagement the gallant Fifteenth took six hundred and twenty-fivo men into battle, and came out with only three hundred and eleven left fit for duty. Of the Worcester men, Lieut Grout was killed, Lieut. Col. Ward was wounded in the leg, requiring amputation, and Capt. Studley was taken prisoner. The regiment remained at Poolsville, after tlic bittle, until the 21st of Februar\-, )SC)2. After spending a month at Harper's Ferry and in Iho Shenandoah Valley, they were .sent to Washington, from whence they went to Hampton, Va., and wore soon after engaged in the siege of Yorktown, being one of tlio first regiments to enter the forlilications. Diu-ing the siege, Col. Pcvcns took his leave, having been promoted to be biigadicr-gencral. Tho regiment took a conspicuous part in the battle of Fair Oaks, May 31, losing five killed and seven wounded. Returning in August to the Potomac Valley, it was in tho bloody battle of Antictam, into which it entered with six hinidreJ and six men, and out of which it came with but two hundred and sixty-three. Among those who received their death-wounds in this engagement was Lieut. Thomas J. Spurr. The regiment spent the winter at Falmouth. Va., and waa engaged in Ihc b.attle of Fiedcricksbnrg, in which their beloved surgeon, S. Foster Haven, Jr., fell. It bore a conspicuous part in the great battle of Gettys- burg, in the first week of July, 18G3. At the last-named place it went into 592 CITY OF AVORCESTER. the fight with eighteen ofEcers iiiul two huiidrecl iind twenty-one enlisted men, and during tiic ihroc days' action, lost three officers Idllcdand eight wounded, and nineteen enlisted men killed and eighty-five wounded. The brave Col. Ward, who hud resumed command five months before, and was now acting brigadier- genera], lost his life in this battle. The remnant of (he regiment followed the retreating rebels into Virginia, and spent the remainder of the 3'ear in marches, skirmishes, and picket duty. One hundred and fifteen drafted recruits joined the ranks in August. The regiment went into winter quarters in December, ISO.j, near Stevcnsl)urg, Va. By the addition of raw recruits during the winter and spring, and the re-enlistment of old members, the strength of the Fifteenth was brought up to about three hundred officers and men in May, 18G4. These went into the battles of the Wilderness, in which the regiment lost about one-half of its number, either killed or wounded. June 22, the regiment, numbering five officers and about seventy men, met the enemy beHn-e l\tersl)urg, and four ofBcers and sixty-five men were taken prisoners. The term of the regiment as a body had expired. One company, which had a few weeks to serve, and those who had i"e-enlisted, were transferred to the Twentieth Regiment. The remainder returned to Worcester, where they arrived July 21, and on the following day were greeted w'\\h a most hearty reei'pliou, in which Gov. Andrew and his staff, the Iudci)cndent Corps of Cadets, the City Government, the Fire Department, the State Guard and other organizations took part. The camp of the Twenty-First Regiment was fi)rmod on the grounds of the Agricultural Society, July 10, ISGl, and was placed in charge of Major Gen. Augustus ]\Iorse, of the State militia, who was appointed colonel of the regiment. "In honor of the President of the United States, the distinguished historical position of the name of Lincoln, and especially in hoiHU" of our venerable patriot and worthy fellow-citizen, ex-Govcrnor Lincoln," the camp w-as designated as Camp Lincoln. Five weeks later, Aug. 23, a beautiful flag, the gift of AVoreester ladies, was entrusted to the legiment by Hon. Alexander II. Bulloek, in a stirring speech. George F. Thompson of Worcester, was quartermaster of the regiment, and \V. Henry Valentine, segeant-major. Company F was the only Worcester company. Its officers were, B. Frank Rogers, captain, and Charles K. Stoddard and Samuel O. Laforrest," lieutenants. Thomas S. AVashburn was captain of company "K " The regiment reached Baltimore Aug. 25, and Annapolis on the 2!)tli. Jan. 0, 15G2, it embarked upon the Burnsidc expedition to North Carolina, and bore a brilliant part in the battle of Roanoke Island, where its loss in killed and wounded was fifty-seven. It lost the same number at Ncwbern, on the 11th of Miircli. At Camden, in April, it lost one man killed and fourteen wounded. In August it was with the Ninth Army Corps on the Rapidan. It took part in the second battle of Bull Run, and at Chantilly met with a very heavy loss. At South Jlountain, at Antietam and at Fredericksburg it fought with credit THE TWEXTY-FIFTII REGIMENT. 593 and with very heavy loss. At the end of the year it went into camp at Falmouth, Vu., having lost one hundred and thirty men hy death, besides those who had been discharged for wounds or disability, or who had been taken prisoners. The year 18G3 was spent in Kentucky and Tenncsee, in marching, watching, starving and fighting. Ilnlf-harefooted, hall-clothed and half-starved, for much of the time, they upheld the fame of their State by their bravery and good discipline. "In the woods of Tennessee (says the report of the Adjutant- General of Massachusetts), on the 29th of December, the proposal was made o the regiment to re-enlist for a new term of three years, and in thirly-six hours all l)ut twenty-four had re-enlisted." Furloughed in Januar}', 1SG4, the regiment returned to Worcester, where it had a brilliant reception Feb. 1. It eturned to Annapolis to join the Ninth Corps, and from tliat lime it expe- icnced heavy fighting in the Wilderness, at Spottsylvania and at Petersl)urg. On the 18th of August it was ordered that the re-cnlistcd members of tiio regiment should be consolidated wiili the Thirty-Sixth, and the rest returned iome. Its total losses had been eleven commissioned ofBeers and one hiuidred md twenty men killed, twenty-four ofEcers and three hundred and eighty-three nen wounded, and sevont^'-eight missing. The Twenty-Fifth regiment was emphatically a Worcester County organiza- ion. Seven companies were frotn Worcester, and one each from Milford, Pitchburg and Tcmploton. It was organized at Camp Lincoln in Sei)teml)er nd October, and left for the field Oct. 31. Many members of the Light Infantry and the Third Battalion bore commissions, or marched in the ranks of his regiment. Edwin Upton of Fitchburg was colonel, and the field, statTaud ine ofljcers from Worcester were : Augustus B. R. Sprague, lieut. -colonel ; M. J. McCafferty, major ; Elijah A. Ilarkness, adjutant ; J. Marcus Rice, surgeon ; [lorace James, chaplain; Charles II. Davis, sergeant-major; E. G. Watkius, ommissar^'-seigcant ; Samuel Flagg, hospital-steward ; captains, Josiah Pickett, \; Cornelius G. Atwood, C; Albert II. Foster, D; Thomas O'Neill, E; ^ouis Wagclcy, G ; Orson Moulton, II; J. Waldo Denny, K; lieutenants, rancis E. Goodwin and Merritt B. Bessey, A ; James Tucker and Merrick ?. Prouty, C ; Geo. S. Campbell and Geo. II. Spanlding, D ; Wm Daley nd Henry McConville, E ; Henry W. Richler and Fred A. Wiegand, G ; [)avid M. Woodward and Xatlianicl II. Foster, II ; Samuel Harrington and ramcs M. Drennan, K. Company E was made up of Irish citizens, and com- )any G, of Germans. iMany of the officers received gifts of horses and equip- ncnts from their friends and associates. A flag was given to the regiment by iho ladies of Worcester, through William S. Davis, Esq. The regiment •cached Annapolis Nov. 3, and on Jan. 7, 1802, embarked with the Burnsido xpcdition for North Carolina, and bore a prominent part in the l)attle of loanokc Island, where its loss was six killed and forty-two wounded. At ilewbern the regiment was in the frf)nt, and some rebel flags, captured by 'ompany E, were sent back to Worcester by Major McCafl'erty (who was VOL. II.— 75 594 CITY OF WORCESTER. honorably discharged), and given to the Public Library. The loss of men in this engagement was niiracnlonsiy small, being but lour killed and sixteen wounded. During the season, Lieut. Col. Sprague was promoted to be colonel of the Fift3'-First, and Col. Upton resigned on account of his health, promot- ing Mfljor Pickett to the ofBce of colonel. Various expeditions and skirmishes occupied the time until the winter, which was passed at Newbern. The sum- mer of 18G3 saw them similarly occupied, always brave and always a credit to their State and their homes. Dec. 14, the regiment, which had gone to Fortress Monroe six weeks before, to join a projected but abandoned move- ment, went into camp at Newport News. AVhile there two-thirds of the regi- ment re-enlisted, and were allowed to go home on furlough. Here they received a generous welcome. The remainder took part in Gen. Butler's un-successful expedition against Richmond and returned to Newpiu-t News, where they were joined in the last week of March (18G1) b}' their comrades returned from furlough. In April, the regiment was sent to North Carolina, but returned at once to Gettys' Station, Va. , and was attached to Hickman's brigade. An engagement at Port Walthall Station, in which the regiment lost 3 killed and 14 wounded, was followed by the battle of Arrowlield Church, in which the loss was 1 officer and 11 men killed and 2 officers and 47 men wounded. In this action the 23d, 2oth and 27th Massachusetts regiments were pitted against the 2;jd, 25th and 27th regiments of South Carolina, and whipped them handsomely. A few days later, at Drury's UUiff, a long and spirited contest took place, in which the regiment lost 11 killed, 1 officer and 52 men wounded, and 73 missing. At Culd Harbor the regiment had 4 officers and 23 men killed. 11 officers and 128 men womided, and 2 officers and 47 men missing. Col. Pickett and Jlajor Atwood were wounded, Lieut. Col. Moulton was taken jirisoner, and adjutant Henry McConville was wounded mortally. The brave Capt. O'Neill I'cli, asking, as he died, to have "his face turned towards the enemy." At Point of Rocks, Co. A, under command of Orderly Sergeant Samuel II. Putnam, captured two 12-pound Napoleon guns with caissons. One man was killed in the regiment, and 1 officer and 17 men were wounded. During the next five weeks the regiment was constantly under fire, and suf- fered heavy loss. But the 10th of September saw the remnant of the regiment back at Newbern, and on the 20th of October, the portion whose I term of service had expired, was mustered out of service at AVorcester. The remainder were consolidated into a battalion of four companies under Capt. James Tucker, which was engaged in picket duty and active service in North Carolina, until July 13, 18G5, when it was ordered home. "Its colors were never yielded to the enemy." The Thirty-Fourth Regiment* was authorized by general orders dated May 29, 1862. June 3, "Camp Wool" was opened on the Fair Grounds by Lieut. * See History of tliu Thirty-Fourth Kegimcnt, by Wm. S. Liucoln. THE TIIIRTY-SIXTH REGIMENT. 505 Cdl. ^Villiam S. Lincoln. July 11, :i flag was given the regiment by the ladies of the city,- in a speech by Col. Alcxamler H. Bullock. On the lath of August the regiment, 1,015 strong, commanded l)y Col. George D. Weils of Green- field, left the city. Wm. S. Lincoln was lieutenant-colonel ; Harrison W. Pratt, major; and Samuel F. Woods, adjutant. William R. Ducou, Dexter F. Parker and Alexis C. Soley were among the captains ; John A. I^ovell and Albert C. Walker, first lieutenants, and Levi Lincoln, Jr., Plenry Hacon and John W. Stiles, second lieutenants. The rcginicut moved first to Alexandria, and spent the remainder of the year in garrison and picket duty in front of Wash- ington. From Ma}' 2, 18G3, to June 2, it was on duty at Upton Hill. From that lime to July 9 it was in Washington, and was then ordered to Harper's Ferry. It was among the first troops to enter the town, and on the 18th of October attacked the force of Gen. Imboden near Berrysville, capturing twcn- ty-onc prisoners and killing and wounding sixty-nine of the enemy. At New- market, May 14 and 15, 18G4, out of five hundred in action, one officer and twenty-seven men were killed, and the total loss was two hundred and twenty- one. Acting Col. Lincoln was wounded in the shoulder and fell into the enemy's hands. Capt. Wm. B. Bacon was killed. At Piedmont the loss was fificcu killed and ninety-two wounded; .at Lynchburg, five killed and one otBccr and forty-one men wounded The year shows a record of forced marches, skirmishes, short rations and hardships. At Winchester, out of three hundred men engaged, one officer and eight men were killed and six ofiicers and ninety- four men wounded ; at Fisher's Hill, three days later, the loss was nineteen wounded. Maj. Harrison W. Pratt was mortally wounded by the accidental discharge of a musket on the night following the splendid victory of Winches- ter. The two battles of Cedar Creek followed, in each of which the regiment fought hard and lost heavily. In the second battle it was the only regiment which preserved its formation entire. In December ihcy were transferred to the Army of the James. The opening of early spring saw them occupied in the advance upon Richmond ; April 2, they took part in the brilliant capture of Battery Gregg in front of Petersburg, losing four killed and thirty-six wounded. The regiment entered Richmond April 25, and the original mcml>ers were mustered out on June 16. The remainder were transferred to the 2-4th regi- ment. The Thirty-Sixth Regiment, commanded by Col. Henry Bowman, left Worcester Sept. 3, 1802. Arthur A. Goodell and S. Henry Bailey went as captains; Francis B. Rice, as quartermaster; Joseph W. Gird, Edwin A. Morse and Edw.ard T. Raymond, as first lieutenants ; Julius M. Tucker and Ilcnry W. Daniels, second lieutenants. The regiment went from Boston to Washington by steamer and joined McClellan's army in Western Maryland. Following the fortunes of that army through the year, it saw its first battle at Fredericksburg Dccem!)er 12, and soon after went into winter quarters at Falmouth, Va. February 10, it left for Newport News, and six weeks later 596 CITY OF AVORCESTER. was ordereJ to the West in Gen. Biirnsifle's department. A most laborious campaign followed, wor.sc than would have been half a dozen battles in a moderate eampaiujn. The report at the close of 18G3 showed that the regi- ment had marched 1,013 miles and been transported 4,328 ; that only eight- een officers and one hundred and ninety-two enlisted men were left fit for dut}' ; that since tlicy left homo one officer and seven men had been killed or had died of wounds, three officers and scventy-uinc men had died of disease, twelve officers and one hundred and thirty men had been discharged, twenty-two transferred, thirty-three wounded in action, and eighteen taken prisoners. Winter l)rouglit no rest and no alleviation of the hard fortune of \his marching, figliling regiment. March 21, 1S(U, thc\' began a marcli of ono hundred and ninety-eight miles over the Cimil)erland Mountains from Knox- ville, Tenn., to Nicholasvillc, Ky., from which place the cars bore them to Annapolis. Hero they were treated to the luxuries of good food and new ilothing. But oidy seventeen days rest was vouchsafed to them, when they were ordered into Virginia. At the battle of the Wilderness, at Ppotlsj-lvauia Court-IIouse, Bethesd:i Church, Petersburg, Poplar Grove Church, and in other lesser engagements, the regiment bore a conspicuous part. The losses for the year were : four officers and fift3'-onc men killed, six officers and two hundred men wounded, sixteen missing. The regiment was at Fort Rice near Petersburg during the winter of 18G4-5, and in the attack on the enemy's works, April 2, lost one man killed and four wounded. Then it resumed its old programme, — incessant marching and skirmishing. It was mustered out at Alexandria June 8, and was ordered to Readville, Mtiss., to receive its pay. A hearty reception was given to the regiment by the city June 13, and on the 21st it was paid olT in camp at Readville and dismissed. The Fifty-First Regiment was the first Worcester County regiment of nine months' troops. It, was recruited at Camp AYool, which was in charge of Col. George II. Ward. Of the field and staff officers Worcester furnished Col. A. V). R. Sprague, Lieut. Col. John M. Studle}', Maj. Elijah A. Ilarkness, Adju- tant J. Stewart Brown, and Quartermaster Benj. D. Dwinell ; of the line, Capts. John 8. Baldwin, Edwin A. Wood, Horace Ilobbs, Wm. F. Wheeler, George W. Prouty ; Lieuts. John B. Goodell, Charles II. Peck, Luther II. Bigelow, Samuel S. Eddy, Calvin N. Harrington, and Joel II. Prouty. The regiment left for Boston Nov. 24, 1862, and embarked for Newbern, N. C, where it reported to Gen. Foster. Its services in the first six weeks were recognized in a general order authorizing the names Kingston, Whitehall and Goldsborough to he inscribed on its colors. In the early months of 18(i.'l the disease eerebro-spinal meningitis raged in the ranks, carrying ofl' aboDt twenty men. Alter hard service in North Carolina the regiment was ordereil to Cuml)crland, Va., at the end of June. Reporting to Gen. Dix at the White House, that officer, learning that its term of service had nearly expired, directed it to return to Fortress Monroe. Arriving at the fortress RESIDENCE OP T. K. EAKLE, WORCESTER, MASS. XlA't"^^ RESIDENCE OF LOIUNQ COES, WORCESTEU, MASS. ARTILLERY REGIMENTS. 507 Juno 28, Col. Sprngiic oflVrcd his services to i^upport the Army of the Potomac, aud procectlcil to Baltimore, wiicre heavy fatigue and guard duties awaited the men. Ten days later they were on Maryland Heights, and July 12 started on an all-night march for Boonesborough to assist in cutting olf Gen. Lee's retreat from Gettysburg. As the rebels had made good their retreat and the time of service of the regiment had i)assed, it was ordered home, where it arrived July 21, 1SG3, with eight hundred men out of nine hinidred and thirty-eight who were mustered in. A hearty reception aud a collation were given to the heroes. The Fifty-Seventh Regiment, a three years' organization, was raised in the spring of 18G4. It was commanded by Col. Wm. F. Bartlett of Pittsfield. Among the ofScers who served with the regiment wore Capts. Julius M. Tucker, Joseph W. Gird, John L. Goodwin, Henry C. AVard, George E. Barton; Lieuts. E. Dexter Cheney, Albert M. Murdock, Henry M. Ide, Edward I. Coo and Charles II. Piukham. The regiment left the State in April, 18G4, and fought its way from the Wilderness to Hatcher's Run, bearing a part in nearly every battle which occurred between those t«o points. From Jan. 1, 18G5, to March 25, the regiment was for most of the time in the lines before Peters- burg. From this time to the surrender of Lee the regiment was inarching and 6ghtiug. It was on provost duty near Tenallytown, Md., uutil August, and was discharged at Readville August 9. The Second Regiment of Heavy Artillery included Lieut. Col. A. B. R. Sprague ; First Lieuts. Stephen E. Greene, Benj. D. Dwinell, Henry W. Reed and Robert B. Sinclair; Second Lieuts. George M. Rice, Jr., aud Myron S. Sanford, and ninety-four men from Worcester. The regiment left the State by detachments between September, 18Go, and January, 18G4, and served in North Carolina aud at Fortress Monroe until September, 1865. The Fourth Heavy Artillery contained about two hundred and thirteen men from Worcester. Capt. J. Orlando Bemis, First Lieut. Charles N. Hair, and Second Lieuts. Augustus Stone and Charles II. Ileywood were among the otEcers. In the First Heavy Artillery Worcester was represented by sixty-five men ; in the Second Cavalry, lifly-siN-, including Second Lieut. Edward \V. Wellington ; in the Fourth Cavalry about twenty-four, including First Lieut. AVarrcn A. Ful- ler ; in the Fiflh Cavalry (colored) , twenty-iive ; in the Twenty-eighth Infantry, thirty men, with Surgeon Peter E. Hiibon, Capt. James OTveefe, Capt. John Treanor, and Lieuts. Nicholas J. Barrett, James E. Estabrook, and George S. Campbell ; in the Forty-Second Regiment about thirty, with C.ipt. Frederick G. Stiles, Capt. Edward R. Washburn, and First Lieuts. Augustus Ford ai.d Luther Capron, Jr. ; in the Fiftieth about seventy, with Capt. Nicholas Powers and Lieuts. J. J. O'Gorman and Martin Hayes. Rev. J.»cph C. Cromack, of the Laurel Street Mcthodi-t Church, was chaplain of the 20th Regiment, aud Rev. II. L. Wayland of the Third Baptist 598 CITY OF WORCESTER. Church, of the 71h Connecticut ; George W. Baldwin was !icljiit;int of the intli Regiment .'ind assistant adjutant genera! ; Ciiarles II. Davis was commissary of -subsistence with the rank of brevet major; Horace Mecorney was assist- ant surgoon of the 25lh Regiment ; George F. Alien was captain in Iho U. S. colored troops ; and George M. Woodward captain in the 55th Regi- m( nt. Alanson II. AVard was captain in the Gist Regiment, and Benjamin A. Ball in the 3d Heavy Artillery. Nearly every Massachusetts regiment or battalion included Worcester men. Many enlisted or received commissions in the regiments of other States. In the navy were Lieut-Commander, Bancroft Gherardi ; acting Mas- ters, John C. Dutch and Gcoige D. Upham ; Master's Mate, George M. Rice, Jr. ; midshipman, Charles P. Blake; paymaster, Wm. II. Hathorn ; carpenter's mate, Cornelius D. Reed, and perhaps others. Promotions were rapid during the Vt'ar, especially in those regiments which were most exposed to loss. The materials for a complete list of those who bore commissions, are wanting. The roll of honor, printed on another page, contains the names of some who rose from the ranks to the line, and of some who were commissioned in other States. It is not the place here for their eulogy. Their lives and actions " Smell sweet and blossom in the dust. " i Attention must now be given to the manner in which the years of the war passed at hon)c. During the four long 3'ears of war the people of Worcester were constant in good works. The pulpit, the press, and eloquent men uttered words of cheer for the departing, of welcome for the returning, and of eulogy for the dead. The ladies were ever active. They early organized a Soldiers* Relief Committee, whicli did a great work in sending supplies, which were much needed, to difTerent points, and in assisting the Sanitary Commission and the Chri.stian Commission with material aid. Levees, fairs and private theatricals were held for the same purpose. The "Soldiers' Rest" was opened near the Central Railroad Station, Jid}' 7, 1862, and entertained about 2,500 ijl, wouiuled or furloughed soldiers, on their homeward journeys. Several ladies wx nt to the great hospitals to serve as nurses. A societ}' of ladies fur- ni.-hed a laigc amount of aid, in the form of money, clothing and other necessaries to the liberated or escaping slaves. July 11, 1803, 702 citizens were drafted to meet a call for 347 men. Of iIksc many were pronounced exempt for physicial reasons; a few joined the aimy; 103 paid the commutation fee of .$300; 53 procured their own sub-" stitutes. Fifty-nine enrolled citizens sent substitnti s previous to the draft. Soon after the departure of the first troops, the honorary and past members of the Light Infantry and of the City Guards formed companies to serve as Home Guards and to serve as schools of training for recruits. In May, 18G3, PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES. 599 the State Guard was chartered by Ihc Legislature, and organized with Ivers riiiliips as captain, Dana H. Fitch and John R. Green, lieutenants. The (iriginal call contained 101 names. The State Guard served most acceptably as escort at the obsequies of deceased soldiers, and for returning regiments. Sixteen members were detailed to do guard duty for the provost-marshal at the time of the draft, and the whole company were on duty for three or f mr days in charge of the rough tharattcrs enlisted from New York as substitutes. The act creating the State Guard was repealed in 18(3G, but a new charter was obtained in 1867, and soon after a battalion of two companies was formed. Their last parade was made on the occasion of the dedication of the Soldiers' Monument, July 1'), 1874. While the war was carried on at a distance from our own soil, Worcester was for part of the time without any armed military organization. As mem- bers of the police force or of the tire department enlisted in the army their places were at once filled, so that the city was constantly protected against any ordinary disturbance of the peace and against the ravages of fire. When the draft began, on the 1 1th of July, 1863, the " State Guards," although organized, were unprovided with efBeient arms and ammunition. Two days later the terrible "draft riots" in New York began, and the excitement and alarm spread through the northern cities. An impression prevailed that the city authorities were remiss in their duty of preparing for the trouble which an hourly expected band of marauding rufBans from New York were to create. But ample preparations were made, although they have not hitherto been puh- lished. Immediately upon the first indication of trouble, Mr. Frank Wesson, rifle manufacturer of this city, called upon the ma^^or, Hon. D. Waldo Lincoln, and tendered the free use, if required, of from 300 to 400 cariiines, with the ucccssar}' fixed ammunition, wiiich for security he had removed from his factory to the cellar of his house. Mayor Lincoln sent for the chief engineer of the fire department, Mr. .Mziriis Brown, to whom he explained the situation, requesting him to sound the oiBcers and members of his force, to see if they could be relied npon in an emergency as a posse to aid the civil authorities, and if necessary', to use the arms. Mr. Brown, after investigation, reported that he would guarantee the readiness and fidelity of every man of his force. Here, then, was a band of 250 men, united, harmonious, and with all the esprit de corps chaiactevi«tic of the organization, who stood ready to turn out, on a preconcerted signal to be given by the church bells, at a ninmont's warning. Fortunately the emergency did not arise.* The "Union League," which played an important part in the war of tho rdicUion, had a chapter here, which was organized in the summer of 1863. Cily Marshal Pratt and C'hief Engineer Brown were members of the organ- izilion, and the same signal which was to summon the fire department as u military 7;osse, was to call out the members of the league. * Gathered from MSS. of Hon. D. WaUlo Liucolu. 600 CITY OF WORCESTER. Ill October, 1864, the (United States) "Dale Hospital" was opened on the grounds of the Female College on Pruvidcnee Street, and was continued niilil after the close of the war. The news of the lall of Richmond, the last stronghold of the Rehcllion, received by telegraph April 3, 1865, caused ihe deepest joy and gratitude. On the afternoon uf the 7lh additional viitories increased the excitement, wlii.h found vent in the firing of cannon, the ringing of ijelis and the screeching of steam-whistles. At night the city was generally illuminated. Near midnight of Sunday, the 9th, the church bells rang again for the surrender of Gen. Lee. The streets were filled at onee with people, and bonfires were kindled at the street corners. Prominent ciiizcus weic visited by extemporized processions and were told the welcome news, to which they made api)ropriate response. The celebration continued through the following day, the fire department, ihe German societies and other organ iz.itions parading, and the evening saw another general and elaborate illuminalion of the city. In marked contrast with these demonstrations of joy was the scene a few days later. At about midnight of April 14 the church bells began to toll. A circumstance so unprecedented could have but one cause. The })eople again poured into the streets, to learn of the assassination of President Lincoln. The city council were called together by ]\Iayor Ball, at seven o'clock the next morn- ing, and a public meeting was convened by him, at Mechanics' Hall, at ten. Hon. Alexander PI. Culloek jiresided at the latter, and religious exercises were conducted by Rev. Dr. Sweetser and Rev. Merrill Richardson. On the 19th of April, the day of the funeral solemnities at Washington, business here was suspended, and the city di-aped in mourning. Religious services were held iu the churches and the courts were adjourned. In accordance with the recom- mendation of the successor of the martyred president, services were again held in many of the churches on the first day of .June, and a public gathering, convened by the city council, in Mechanics' Ilall, was addressed in eloquent terms of eulogv by Hon. Alexander II. Bullock. The fourth of July, 1865, was celebrated here as never before. A joint committee of the city government and the citizens arranged a celebration, which included an ovation to the returned soldiers and a grand processi(jn exhibiting the industrial pursuits and resources of the cit}'. Besides a very general and elaborate decoration of the city, a grand triumphal arch was erected across Main Street near Front, a memorial arch in front of the Central Exchange, and a rustic arch oiiposite School Street, all under direction of the committee. Elegant arches were erected by private hands at other points. James B. Blake, Esq., was marshal of the day. Every regiment that went from the county was represented in the long procession which moved through the streets in the forenoon. The school children, numbering over 6,000. arranged in double line along the route, sang patriotic airs, cheered and waved their tiny flags. The soldiers were finally escorted to Mechanics' Ilall for SOLDIERS' MONUMENT. GOl dinner, and were weleonicd by Mayor Ball. Cul. Pickett, their marshal, Chaplain Georire S. Ball, Col. AVilliain S. Lincoln and Col. Spraguc made appropriate addresses. The afternoon procession, more than two miles long, iiiclndcd the Fire Dpi)artnicnt, the Irish Societies and the German Turners, and most claljorate representations of the trades and manufactures of the city. The evening witnessed a grand and general illumination. The Soldiers' Monument forms a worthy subject of consideration at this point. The city, which had cheerfully done its duty in sustaining the soldiers in the field, and had received with open arms the returning brave, was pioni[)t in taking measures to commemorate the fallen. The Hon. James B. Blake, on taking his seat as mayor, Jan. 1, 18(>G, invited the city government to inaugu- rate sue!) measures as would enable them, as recipients of the voluntary contributions of the jjcople, to eiect a monument to the glorious army of martyrs. This suggestion was referred to a special committee, who convened a general meeting of citizens February 10, when a committee of twenty-eight gentlemen was appointed to co-operate with a cotnmiltee of the city goveiu- nieut in receiving popular subscriptions. The work of canvassing the city for subscriptions began at once. The subscribers to the fund were called together Sept. 5, 18()7, when it was reported that the amount of subscriptions was $11,242.40. A committee of twenty-eight was appointed, who, with such as the city council might join, should continue the colK^ction of subscriptions, and should have full powers to choose a site, select a design and erect a monument. Three aldermen and six councilmen were joined to the committee. The joint committee organized by choosing James B. Blake as chairman and Charles A. Chase secretary. An executive committee was chosen to procure plans and choose a site. It consisted of James B. Blake, E. B. Stoddard, George Crompton, Oliver K. Earle, David M. Woodward, R. M. Gould, M. S. i\IcConvilIe, Charles A. Chase and Joseph Chase. The first plan accepted by the committee (resembling in its general features the famous Arc de Triom[)ho de rEtoilc, at Paris), was estimated to cost not less than $00,000; and, as ii large api)iopriation from the city treasury would be required to secure its erection, the citizens were asked to vote upon the plan at the municipal clccliou in December, ISGS. It was rejected. June 2J, 1871, the general committee were again called together, and George Crompton, Esq., was elected chairman, in place of Hon. James B. Blake, deceased. Edward L. Davis and Henry A. I Marsh were added to the executive committee to fill vacancies caused by the deaths of Messrs. Blake and Earle. A model, prepared in clay by Randol|)h Rogers of Rome, was adopted by the executive and general committee. The j wishes and tastes of the surviving soldiers of the war had been constantly kept ' in view. They were represented both upon the general and the execulivo ! committees, and the local po^t of the Grand Army of the Republic was invited [ to inspect and approve the models sul)mittcd for examination. The cost of the G02 CITY OF WORCESTER. niouumont was to be $50,000. It was estimated that the interest upon the siibsi riptions woiikl swell the fund to $15,000. On request of the executive committee the city council, November 20, voted an appropriation of $35,000 to secure the execution of the design. The sculptor returned to Rome, and began the task of executing his models, to be reproduced in bronze. It was found that no full list of our fallen soldiers was in existence, and the work of comi)iling one was attended with no little difliculty. The list, as completed and engraved upon the monument, includes: — 1st. Those who had an cstaldishcd residence in the city at the time of their enlistment, although they may have joined the quotas of other places. 2d. Those who served njion the quota of Worcester, whatever may have been their residence. Provided, in each case, that the soldier was actually in the service of the United States at the time of his decease. By permission of the city council, granted March 30, 1874, the Executive Committee selected the north-east part of the common as the most conspicuous site, and fixed upon Wednesday', July 15, for the dedication. The lion. Alexander II. Bullock was invited to deliver an oration ; Maj. Gen. Charles Dcvens, Jr., to deliver an address in response ; and Hon. Benjamin F. Thomas, to write an ode. The Executive Committee invited Post 10 of the Graiid Ainiy to !ipi)oint a committee of five from their number to consult in relation to the dedication ; and asked the city council to choose a committee to co-operate, in behalf of the city, in making the necessary arrangements. Brig. Gen. Josiah Pickett w.is invited to act as chief marshal. The sum of $7,000 was voted by the city conncil to defray the expenses connected with the dedication, including the entertainment of the military and Grand Army organizations and other invited guests. On Wednesday, July 15, 1874, the snn rose clear upon Worcester, gayly decorated as if in honor of some great event. The common, the city hall, and other buildings appropriated for the time to public nse, had been dressed and adorned liy the committee's order, while all along the prescribed route of the procession, private citizens had vied with each other in the tasteful decora- tion of their houses and grounds. The various organizations from other places were, on their arrival, escorted from the railroad stations to Brinley Hall, and furnished with a substantial luncheon before taking the places assigned to them in the programme of the day. At the close of the exercises they partook of ii dinner furnished by the city, in Mechanics' Hall. The procession was nearly a mile in length, and passed to the common by a route of long circuit, through streets lined with people gathered from the city and the country, past houses gayly and tastefully dressed with bunting, evergreen, and various devices of the decorator's art, halting at intervals to rest men and animals exposed to the burning sun of a summer's day, until at cue o'clock the otEccrs, orators and guests of the occasion, reached the shcl- .-^^ fer CEOJIPTON S LOOM WORKS, WORCESTKIi, MASS. J-- :.irfil CKOlll'TO.V CAHPET COMPANY'S WORKS, WORCESTICH, MASS. DESCRIPTION OF THE WORK. 603 tcicd platform which had been built upon the connuon, a few rods west of tho tuoiiiuiiciit. The procession was escorted by tho 10th regiment, M. V. M., the 5th battery of light artillery', and the Worcester State Guard, platoons represent- ing the 6lh, 15th, 21st, 25th, 34lh, oGth, 51st and 57th regiments of Mass. volunteers ; Post 10, and twent}' other posts of the Grand Army from this county, the Odd Fellows, Knights of Pythias, German Turners, the Society and Ancient Order of IIil)ernians, St. Jean Baptistc Society, and the Worcester fire department. The invited guests who were present included Vice-President Henry Wilson, Maj. Gen. Ambrose E. Burnside, Hon. George S. Boutwell, U. S. Senator; and Gen. John W. Kimball, commander of the State depart- ment of the Grand Array. The formal exercises of dedication began at ono o'clock, p. M. After a vohmtary by tho Germania Baud of Boston, prayer was offered by the Rev. William R. Huntington, rector of All Saints Church. The Hon. Benjamin F. Thomas of Boston read an original ode; and George Crompton, Esq., chairman of the committee, made a few introductory remarks, reciting the history of tho enterprise. Then the drapery which had concealed Iho chief portions of the monument fell, revealing tho beautiful niasterpicco to the thousands of spectators. The band played "Keller's American Hymn," and the artillery fired a national salute. The addresses * of Gov. Bullock and Gen Devens followed. INIr. Crompton then surrendered the monument to the Ilcm. Edward L. Davis, Mayor, who received it in behalf of tho city ; and after the multitude had J!)ined in singing "Old Hundred," a benediction was invoked by the Rev. Edward II. Hall, pastor of the second parish church, and late chaplain of the 44th Massachusetts volunteers. The entire height of the monument is si.xty-five feet. Upon buttresses, from each corner of tho second die, stand tigures in bronze, representing Infantry, Cavalry, Artillery and Navy ; on the second die, the profiles in bas- relief of the late President Lincoln and Gov. Audrcw, the dying soldier, in bass-relief, and the inscription, — "EUECTED BY TDE PEOPLE OF WORCESTER TO TQE MeMORV OF HeK SONS WUO DiED FOR THE Unity of tue Republic A D 1801-1865." On the third die are the arms of the United States, the arras of the State of Ma^sachusctts, and the seal of the city of Worcester; also tho crossed swords and laurel wreath representing the army. A Corinthian cap upon a Roraau cohnnu supports a semi-globe, upon which the Goddess of Victory is in tho act of alighting, with sword aloft in tho right hand and a palm in the left. On the first, or lower die, the names of 3U7 fallen soldiers arc engraved on four bronze plates. At each of the four corners of the sub-base, staud, inverted, four bronze cannon, captured from the enemy in the war. •These addresses are given in foU iti the account of tho dedication printed by order of the committee on tlio monumuut. 604 CITY OF WORCESTER. The Roll of Honor. Tlie followiufj iiaincs :ire insc-ribed upuu the inomunent : — 2(J Regiment. loliii G. O'Conncll. 9lh Jierjiment. — Andrew Conloii. Jolin KcUej-, Charles Thomijson. W h IlegiwpHt. — M;ijor Dexter F. Parker. 1 llh Regivu'iit. — Philip Fnrley. 12th Regiment — I-^.aac Kain. 15th Regiment. — Co\. George II. Ward, Brevet Brin, Francis W. Eaton, Patrick Finnegan, Michael Flinn, William H. Folger, Joseph Freeman, Harlow D. Getchcll, Daniel GiiiK'iyle, Daniel Harris, William Hart, Ciiarles Head, Patrick Hoyt, Cyru3 Learned. Elson T. Lcland, Tliomas IMagoracry, Martin McBridge, Albert Megan, Charles J. Merriam, John Morrissey, Francis II. Noyes, Loand- r J. Oweus, Gcoige Parsons, James Perry, Calvin A. Rockwood, John Skirrington, John W. .Smith. John F. Staflbrd, Charles H. Stiles, Alexander Thompson, J. F. Thornton, Melville Walker, David Welch. Kith Regiment. — Thomas Whalan. ISth Regiment. — Gideon P. Hero, Henry Parmenter. 20ih Regiment. — Henry W. Brewer, John Dippolt, Jonathan Francis, Patrick McCuUough, John Sfhilling. 21st R(gim(nt. — Cori)Is. .Tames H. Wilson. Charles .S. Wilder; Privates Austin Barton, Francis Bnllaid, John Davis, Patrick II. F.ay. George II. French, AVdIiam Frost, Carlos II. Goodrich, William McLean, Jefiorson Paine, Emerson Phillips, Otis Potter, James Slater, John AVells. 2r)th 7?f7/m(?»<. —Capts. Thomas O'Neill, William Daly; Adjt. Henry McConville ; Lients. Henry Mathews, Cliarlcs II. Pellon : .Sergts. Orlando Ilodgkins, Thoraa; J. M*^- Kcon ; Corpls. George A. Bixby, Warren O. CoUcster, Jerome II. Fuller, Warren C. Hardy, Andrew J. Iluse, Ciiailes E. Jcllv, Frank F. Knapp, John E. Lewis, D;u)icl B. McCrea, Patrick McDonongh, Alfred Piper,. AValter II. Richards, Samncl Tiiurstnn ; Privates John Q. Adams, William R. Alexander, Sidney J. Atkinson, Edward L. Barnail. Gardner F. Barnes, Hiram II. H. Bdlings, Peter Brady, Michael Brosnihan. Geoi ■ Burr, Patrick Burke, Daniel Canovan, Hubert Cnrson, William U. Chapman. Roberi i Chapman, Charles W. Chikls, George A. Coffin, Patrick Conlan, Patrick Cuddy, Chnr V. Ciulis, George E. Curtis, John Daly, Riehaid H. Daniels. Chauncy P. Demond, J'' II. Devereaux, Edward Dmelan, Levi L. Eames, Stanley W. Edwards, Rjl)ert Empr\ . James R. Estey, Charles F. Fisher, Michael Fitzpatrick, Eugene Gantner. David Gard- ner, Sanuiel Gleason, Henry Colliding, 2d, .Tohu D. Grace, Benjamin C. Green. Sainn I T. Hall, Joseph Ileaton, Patrick Hogan, AVilliam E. Ilolman, John Howard, Wdii m Hudson, Otis II. Knight, Patrick Lamb, William Latham, Ira Lindsav. Francis Lovelr\ . Edwaid F. May, William McDevilt,( harles A. McFarland, William J. Melnlire. S;l H. McK(iy. !Michael McMahon, John Mihan, Benjamin M'.llir, Thomas O' liny le. Dc>: ; O'Connell, Joscjih Orfall, Caraille L. Oiiimette, George F. Penniinan, William Peil;i;, . Jehu Perry, Eli Pike, Charles L. Rice, John Ryan, John B. Savage, Andrew Sh m. Ephiaini Smith, Edgar A. Stone, James Stewart, Benjamin D. Tliayer, William II. Wardwell, Marshall Iv Warren, George Werner, James White. 27th Regiment. — INIilo Pasco. 2Sth Regiment. — Lieut. Nicholas J. Barrett; Sergt. Thomas Carroll; CorpN. Wi'- liani II. Scolieid, James Sweeney; Piivates Thomas Hackelt, James Iloklen, Daiuci O'Snllivan, William O'DiMinell, Austin Yddon. 2fllh Hegiment. — Wdliam Klinkler, Hezekiah .S. Sargent. i/lsl RegimciU. — Lor^J. Ciiailes A. Juhnsuu ; Private Henry Young. ' KOLL OF IIOXOR. G05 3-2(J ne^!ment. — \\y\\\Mi\ AV. Daiigs, John Tobin, Charles AVdch. ;-i4'h Rrtiment. — Miij r Harrison W. Pralt: Capt. William 15. Bacon; Licnts. Samncl F. Woods, Alhert C. Walker; Scrgt. Joseph W. Webber; Corpl. Oeoriio II. Gilbert; Privates AViUiam A. Ballon, Edwin W. Barlow, Ziba A. Blodgclt, Daniel B lyle, Charles W. Biirliank, Edwin D. Burgess, Patrick Casey. Anhur L. Fox, Ilarvci* Giliiert, Daniel Hurley, George T. Jnhnson, Lincoln L. Johnson, Joiin A. Lewis, Timothy Moynihan, George Moran, John Morton, John A. Necdiiam. Edwin W. Pierce, Albert M. Stewart, Harvev D. Stone, Harvey E. Trucsdell, Alfred D. Washburn. .James Welch. 3C)lh Reqiment. — Lieut. Henry W. Daniels; Sergts. Almon F. Bai'ev. Charles H. Boswell, George E. Freeman ; Corpls. Fanning T. Rlerritt, Henry H. Rice, Clark Bobinson; Privates Solomon S. Bigelow, James S. Boiwoll, Lewis M. Brooks, Hiram E Chambers, Merrick B. Converse, M\rnn M. Daniels, Dwight J. Dixon, Franklin S. Kt Hey. Michael Longhlin. Daniel H. Park, Charles W. Parker, Lucius A. Reynolds, Frederick lliuh, AVilliam A. Smith, Hartwcll C. Twichcll. 42d Rcfjiment. — William T. Cutler, Henry H. Lowell, George G. Harrington, Samuel J. Stone, Buckley Waters. -lOlh Regiment. — James Crcssor. SOlh Rejimoit. — Sergt. John Hines ; Corpl. Michael McDonald; Privates IMartin Fitzgerald, Patrick Murphy, Charles P. O'Rourke, James A. I'ower, Nicholas Skcrrett, Oucn Treanor. olst Rerjiment. — Corpls. Edwin 11. Bliss, Charles H. Cutting; Privates William O. B lotman, Thomas J. Gilbert, Selh B. Gordon, William F. Gordon, Charles W. Haven, Henry J. Kendall, Henry G. Longley, Solomon Parsons, Jr., Melville V. Ransom, Charles S. Smith, Eugene W. Stratton. 54lh Rer/iment. — John H. Johnson. SClh Regiment. — John Swan. 57th Reriiment. — Capt., Joseph W. Gird; Lieuts., Samuel M. Bowman, E. Dexter CLeney, James BI. Chdds, Edwin I. Coe, Albert M. Murdoc!;; Sergts., Dw'ght D. Allen. James B. Freeman. J. Henry Fidler, Wibiam C Park. Samuel Souther; Corpls., Henry L. Park, George W. Willard. Charles E. Young; Privates, Jcrcnvah Buckley, Tlionias Burke, Michael Cadigan, Silas N. Cater. Elisha C. Davenport, Charles F. Everett, Albert S. Ewing, Charles A. Fitts, Charles W. Frelick, Michael Gillin, John Handlcy. George F. Hood, Daniel Hooley, Martin L. Jordan. Martin Kiloy. John Leaiy. Samuel M. Lovering. Daniel M.Tghnie. Lewis Moore, William K. Moore, Michael Mori is. Daniel O'Connor, William E. Richards, Charles H. Rugg, Eugene Smith, James &L Stetson, E Iward A. Walton, James J. Willard. 5'^th Rerjimcnt. — Isaac G. White. 59lh Regiment. — Silas A. Coolidge. Gist Regiment. — Henry II. Fletcher. G2d Regiment. — Cutler Seaver. Jxt Cavalry. — James E. Estabrook. 2d Cavalrt/. — Corpl., Jesse E. Hunt; Privates, James McGtrath, Oliver A. Smith. 5lli Cavah-i/. — Sergt., Henry G. Garner; Piivate, John Cheesman. .Vfi D itlalion Rifles. — Piivate, Amos II. Gidjert. 2d Ilc'tvn Artillery. — Sergts., George C. Butler, George S. Duckworth, John M. White; Cori)'ls, Henry K. Hill, Henry T. Jennison, Jonas C. Keyes, Charles A. G. Rice, Henry T. Wheeler; Privates. Charles E. Bsm, Lcvcrett S. Butler, Richard D. Clark, r.dmund Cougdon, Thomas W. Edwards, George G. Gay, Peter J. McNully, George W. Sampson, James II. Spaul liner. E Iwin M. Staples, Avery Sylvester, John Tnnniclilie, Luther P. Webber, George W. Wellington, Lewis E. Wilder, Hobart II. U oodbury. 3d Heavy Artillery. — Private, David Maxim, Jr. 4th Heavy Artillery. — Privates, George E. Cutler, A. Milton Seaver, Samuel W. Stratton. James Whitehonse. 1st Battery. —Private, Albert F. Hall. 7lh Battery. — Private, John W. Forbes. 606 CITY OF WORCESTER. Olher Organizations. — Samuel L. Bigelow, Bi'igadc Surgeon ; Maj jr Benjs,rain TV. Perkins, Quartermaster; Francis A. Conant, Medical Dept. U. S. A.; Lieut. Col. Win. N. Green. 173(1 New York ; Capt. Theodore Huntick, 7th Connecticut; Capt. William E. Ilackcr, 1st Marvland ; Lieut. Francis Bacon, 102(1 New York; Lieut. Henry Ilolbrook, ;3d 11. L IL A. ; Lieut. John D. Mirick, 3.' th U. S. Colored Troops; Victor Whittem 're, 1st ^Liino Cavalry ; James Davis, 2d New Hampshire ; George M. Kidder, 4th N. IL ; Walter W. Smith, Gth N. H. ; George W. Haskell. 1st Vermont Cavalry; Wnnrice Higgins, Micluael P. Scannell, John B. Warner and Lvman Whit- comb, 3d Rhode Island; Sergt. Alvah A. Hoar and private C. Pcrley Russell, Gih Connecticut; .lohu Holden, Amos S. Wilkins and James Welch, ;)th N.Y. Cavalry; Augustus D. C. Guild, 9lh New York; Sergt. Herbert J. Kendall, Tilst N. Y. ; John Povvers, 73d N. Y. ; Charles A. McKoy, 12th Maryland ; John M. Fitzpatrick, 1st U. S. Infantry ; Michael O'Toole, 3d U.S. I. ; Francis M. Athcrton and Josiah S. Esta- brook, nth U. S. I. ; William J. Stamp, 18th U. S. I. ; William IL Hector, 8ih U. S. IL Artillery ; Darius Starr, 2d U. S. Sharpshooters ; Cornelius D. Reed, Carpenter's Male, U. S. N. CHAPTER X. MAINTENANCE OF SCHOOLS — EARLY PROVISION — FIRST SCHOOL-HOUSE — THE "overseers' board" FE.MALE EDUCATION HIGH SCHOOL STATISTICS. Worcester has ever been prominent in maintaining public schools for tlie education of her own children, and private institutions for the benelit of those who might be sent iiither for instruction. It is of the first class, chiefly, that the writer is called upon to treat. The original committee for the settlement of the town agreed, in IGGD, that a lot of land of twenty-five acres should be appropriated for the maintenance of a school and schoolmaster, to remain for (hat use forever. At the second settlement, 1084, a similar agreement was made, and it was enjoined "that care be taken to provide a schoolmaster in due season." But the hard lot of the first settlers, and their martial way of living, militated against carrying into e.xecutioii the good intentions of the founders. It is not until 1720 that we find any record of public action in the way of providing education, — an article in the warrant for a town meeting in the previous December, "to see if the town would provide a writing-master to instruct ye youth," having been passed without notice. But on the 4th of April, 1720, it was voted "that ye selectmen forthwith take care & provid sufficiaut schoole for ya Education of Youth in sd Town of Worcester"; and thereupon the selectmen agreed "with Mr. Jonas Rice to be ye schoolc-mastcr for sd Town of Worcester and to teach such Children and Youth as any of _\ c Inhabitants Shall Send to him to read & to write as ye Law Directs — to keep Such schof)!e untill ye fifteenth Day of Decimber next Ensuing ye Date hcarof: said Schoole to [be] Suported at the Towns Charge." The new enterprise for some icason was not popidar, for on the 19th of "Decimber," on the question whether the town would take care to provide a schoolmaster, " it past in ye EARLY SCHOOL AFFAIRS. 607 Ncgitivc." This action, however, cost the town two pountls eight shillings and sixpence, the costs on a presentment by (he grand jnry. The first teacher liad been selected by the selectmen, but at (he May meeting, in 1727, a conimitteo was ajjpointed (our first "school committee"), consisting of James Iloklen, j\Ioscs Leonard, Henry Lee, Jolui Hubbard and John Stearns, to provide a schooimaster for one year. Jan. 15, 1728, it was voted "that Sixteen pounds Ton Shillings be assessed on yo rateable Lihabilents of Worcester for & towards ye support of yc Schoole in sd town." Li May, 1720, the selectmen "agreed with lusin Benjamin Flagg to stand Schoolcmasfer in Worcester to teach Childicn and youth to read and write untill the fifeteeuth Day of Septem- ber Next ensuing." In Apiil 1731, it was voted : — " That yc Selectmen provid a Schoole m.aster to keep a schoole for reading & writing for Childi in & Youth untill ye first day of September next ensuing ; and whearas many small Chikliiii cannot attend ye school in ye Scntor of ye town by Reason of ye re- moteness of their Dwellings, and to ye intent that all Cbildrin may have yc beni- fitc of Education &c. " Voted that a suitable number of School Dames not Exceeding five be provided by ye Selectmen at ye Charge of 3-0 Town for yc teaching of small cbildrin to read, and to be placed in ye several parts of ye Town as ye Selectmen may think most Conve- nient and Such Gentlewomen to be payd by yc pole as ye Selectmen and they may agree." The quarters of the tow-n were almost literally "four equal parts," for they were formed by division lines drawn from the middle of each exterior lionml- ary. A Mr. Wyman kept school fourtc^'U weeks in 17.32, for which bo received £1.3 10s. and £3 for travel ; Capt. Jonas Rico about four weeks, when Richard Rogers was engaged at the rate of £50 a year and continued in the service about eight years. The school of that day had a name but no local habitation ; it moved from neighborhfjod to neighborhood to accommodate (he children in different sections of the town. But in 1733 it seemed desirable that a build- ing should be erected for its special use, and on May loth it was voted : — "That there be a School-bouse Built at ye Charge of ye Town and placed in ye Center of ye South half of ye Town or as near as may be for Convenieney having Regard to Suitable ground for sucli a bouse to Stand on and whcar Land may be pur- chised in Case it falls on mens |)crticider property, provided ye purcbis maybe on Ilea- eonable Terms &e. ; that Col. John Chandler be the surveyor ' to find the Centor of yc South half of AVoreester' ; that ' ye house be Twenty-four feet Long Sixteen feet wide and seven feet Sludd to be Compleatly finished with a good Chimney ' &c., the whole to be done under direction of a committee — Daniel Ileywood, Benj. Flagg, Jr., and Thomas Stearns." It was not until the summer of 1738 that a school-house was actually built, — an himible edifice si.vtcen feet by twenty-four, with seven feet posts, — at the north end of Main Street, very near the present site of the iiay-scales. G08 CITY OF WORCESTER. Here John Adams ilio siRccssor of Washington in the Prcsiilency, taught the gninunar school from August, 1755, to October, 1758. This lot was snhsc- quontl}' exchanged for one on the west side of Summer Street, where a school- house of about the same proportions was built, which has only lately been demolished. At the same time (A. D. 1800) asimilarone was built on a ledge in front of the site now occupied by the First Baptist Church. This school-honse was removed, some fifty years ago, to the south-cast corner of the burial-ground on the common, just north of the present mall. In jNIarch, 1740, the sum of £100 was appi-opriated for schools, £.')0 to be applied towards keeping a grammar school and £50 divided among the quar- ters or skirts as usual, provided the body of the town keep a grammar school the j'car, and save the town from presentment ; and provided the skirts do in llie whole have 12 mouths schooling of a writing master, and that all the schools be free. In ]\Iarch, 1742, it was voted "that nine months of tiie schooling be divided among the four qnarters of the town eqnalh' — the school to be kept at Dr. ^Moore's, Thomas Parker's, Ilenr}' Lee's and Elislia Smith's; the other three months in the school-house." In 1745, a committee appointed to recommend a school system, reported the following : — " I. 110£ for support of schools. " II. That .1 number of inhabitants, livin remote from the school-house have the benefit of such sums as they shall be assessed toward ye 110£ — to support Suitable schools to instruct and teach their children in the best manner they may be able." [Here follows a list of the families to be so assessed.] "III. Tlie Remainder of the inhabitants of said town living within the aforesaid familys to make up b}' a subscription or some other method a sufficient sum inchuling their part of said tax to maintain and keep a grammar [High] school at ye school- house in sd town ; so that j-e town may not be at anj- time presented for want of ye same. " IV. The aforesaid families, freed from paj'ing to the town schoole as aforesaid, shall and mn}- at anj- time send anj' of their children to be schooled at yc school-house, without paying anything therefor. " V. Some suitable persons to be appointed bj- the town to take effectual care that the money so assessed be layd ont in such way and manner as is proposed." A committee appointed in 1748 to fix the town pl.at (i. e. the centre dis- trict) and to determine the places for school-houses in the four quarters of the town, made a report which was accepted, fixing the outlying school-houses as follows: "East quarter, between Benj. Flagg's & Matthias Stearns; west, ye crotch of the path between old Mr. Johnson & bis son Solomon ; sonth, on yo hill between Nalhl Moore Jr. & Wm. Elder's ; north, near Lt. Fisk's." It early became evident that a more thorough and more constant system of education was required for the children of the central portion of the town than was practicable hi the outer and sparsely settled districts. At the request of ..iSSiK- KESIDEN-CE OF J. II. WAI.KKli, WOltCESTEH, JIASS. ctJe*' RESIDENXE OI- OKOROK S. IIAHTOX, AVOUCKSTKlt, MASS. i i EDUCATIONAL PROGRESS. 609 tlio inliahitunts of the central district, or of ininy of thcin, it was voted in 1752 "that inhal/itauts in the centre of the bow extending one mile and a half round the school-house liave allowed them their proportion of money for ye support of schooling, provided they do bona fide Keep a grammar school yo whole year, and if tlieir i)roportion of the money will procure a school master more than 12 weeks, the usual time they have of late had schooling there, any person may have liberty to send their children after said 12 weeks." In 1763, James Putnam, John Chandler and others were granted leave to set up a i school-house on such portion of the town land as the selectmen should think proper. A one-story house, with two rooms on the floor, was erected on the ministerial land, easterly from Main Street, south of the site of the Worcester Bank block. " During the Revolution," says Lincoln, "it was converted into a dwelling, and remained until modern imi)rovements swept away the ancient house and the veneral)le elms that embowered its lowly roof." In 17G9 the proprietors of this school were allowed £IG by the town, "they engaging that the school shall bo free for all persons'in the town desirous of learning the languages," i. e., Latin and Greek. Among those who were fitted for colleiro (Harvard) in this school were, probably, Rnfus, Nathaniel and William Chan- dler, sons of the second judge John Chandler, Dr. William Paine and his brothers Samuel and Nathaniel, James Putnam, Jr., and Daniel Bigelow (after- wards comity attorney). The appropriation for schools in 1781 was £1,000; in 1782, £100. The former sum was in Continental money, the latter in redeemable currency. The town was again [irescnted in 1785 for not maintaining a grammar school, and the committee on public schools were instructed to agree with the proprie- tors of the private institution to exempt the town from future fine. A second association of gentlemen, uniting in a stock company, hired a lot of land (which they afterwards purchased), just north of the present State Mutual Lifo Assuinncc Company's building, and erected a school-house in 1792. Here tw) schools were opened, — one for the conmion elementary studies, and (he other for the highest branches of academic education. These schools were foundel by the proprietors especially for the advantage of their own children; and, •when these had grown up and entered college or engaged in business affairs, the schools began to languish, and in July, 1801, the building and land wero |sold to the inhabitants of the centre district. The building was moved back about fifty feet from the street, and occupied by schools until some thirty-fivo .years ago, when a new school-house of brick was built just north of the old .)nc, and the latter was sold, moved forward to its original site, and, its front taving been covered with a brick wall, converted into stores and offices. The second "centre school-house" was occupied about twenty years, when it was ■jold to David S. Messinger (in 18G7), and converted into stores and dwellings. The original brick school-house in Thomas Street was built in 1832, on land 010 CITY OF WOKCESTER. devised to the city by Isaiah Thomas. It stood immediately in front of the present building. \Vc have seen that the town, from time to time, appointed a special commit- tee to hire a teacher or to manage the schools, — a dnty which, withont snch action, vested in the selectmen. It was very early felt that different qualifica- tions were necessary for the management of schools than fur the general ndministi-ation of town affairs. In 1823 a committee, of which Samuel M. Burnside was chairman, was appointed at a school meeting of the centre dis- trict to report upon the general concerns of the district. The report of this committee * contains, besides other recommendations of im[)ortancc, the fol- lowing : — '• III the third place. Your Coramittec recoramcncl, that s. board of twelve overseers be cbosen annually by ballot, whose duty it shall be, in conjunction with the Seloctmen, to (leterniinc upon llic qualifications of instructors and to contract with them for Iboir services ; — to determine upon the attainments of scholars, to be admitted into said Schools respectively : — to iircscribc the course of instruction therein, and all necessary rules and regulations for the govornmont thereof; — to determine upon all complaints of instructors, of parents or of scholars, which may arise in relation to said schools, or either of them ; — to visit and examine said schools respectively-, at stated periods dur- ing the year ; — to encourage, in every suitable manner, both instructors and scholars In the performance of their relative duties; and to make a report in writing annually to the District, of the condition of said Schools during the pcrio:l of their oHicc." The recommendations of the report were adopted. Mr. Bnrnside's asso- ciates on the committee making the report were Aaron Bancroft, Jonathau Going, Levi Lincoln. Otis Corbctt, and Samuel Jennison. The first board of overseers included all the members of tiio committee except Mr. Jennison, with Aretins B. Hull, Loammi Ives Iloadlcy, John Davis, TheophiUis Wheeler, Enoch Flagg, Benjamin Chapin, and Frederick W. Paine. In accordance with other recommendations of the report, the schools of the district were graded, and special antiiority was obtained from the Legislature to raise money by assessment of the inhabitants of the district. Tliree j^ears after the date of tho report, Mr. Burnside, being sent to the House of Kepresentatives, embodied his [din of a special board of public officers to have charge of schools in "A bill to further provide for the instruction of youth," and procured the passage of the same by the Legislature. The practice of vesting the exclusive jurisdic- tion over the public schools in a committee elected directly by the people is believed to have been first adopted here, and its extension over tiie whole State was duo to the efforts of Mr. Burnside. Tho report of tho "Overseers" for 1828 shows that, in addition to the [Latin] grammar school which w.as supported by the town, and which was for boys only, eight permanent schools and one temporary one had been established by the district. They comprised the north and south infant schools, kept in • Reprinted in Ajipoudix to Worcester Scliool Keport of 1872. HIGH SCHOOL. gu the siiiiill Sfliool-lioiiscs built in 1800, and sitiiiitccl respectively on t'lc west Bide of Stiinmer Street, and on the sontii-cast part of the common ; the north and south primary schools (both kept in the centre school-house) ; the second female school and the English school for boys; and the female high school, which corresponded to the Lifin grammar school, cxcc[)t that English branches only wore taught; the Afiican school, situated on the eastern corner of tho ''f Pino Street bnrial-gron'.id, which had just been established, and which was m:;intained until 18r)4 ; and tho apprenllccs' scho!)l, kept for three months in the winter for ap[)renticcs and clerks. A recommendation made by Dr. Bancroft was adopted Fob. 23, 1825, and j it was ordered "that at two o'clock of tho afternoon of tho Saturdiy which j closes the scholastic year, a public address be annually delivered in one of tho houses for public worship, by some person appointed by (ho board ; the promi- nent objects of which shall bo, to illustrate the importance of good education 1 and tho best method of acquiiing and extending such an education; and give I to tho district asscml)led a just view of tho manner in which their schools aro and should bo conducted. Let this address be followed by prayer. Lot propji* measures lie taken to insure a full audience from tho District, and lot the pupils of each st-liool bo seated together, with llicir teacher at their head. Further pageantry, tho commiltoo think, would l)e unnecessary and useless." This pleasant custom was continued until aliout the ^'oar 1840, when t!io increase of po|)uIation had rendered it impossible to collect all the school children (if tho town ill a single church. The lirst throe addresses were delivered I)y members of the first board of overseers, — Aaron Bancroft, Samuel ]\I. Burnsidc, and Jonathan Gfiing. On the incorporation of tho city in 1818, there were eight infant schools, five primary, three giammar, the high school and the African school in tho centre district, and fifteen schools in the thirteen outer districts. All these at once came imder the charge of the city. In 18 Id public sentiment had so far advanced here that it was deemed both desirable and safe to give a classical education to girls, and a, town meeting ordered the establishment of the "Clas-ical and English High School," which should be open to scholars from the whole town, and bo capable of accommo- dating at least seventy-five br)ys and one huudrod girls. Tho sum of $12,000 was appropriated for tho erection of a new building, and a committee, of which Samui I V. Haven was chairman, was appointed to build and start the school. A substantial brick building,* two stories in height, with a half basement, was erected on the south-we-t corner of \Valnut and M.iplc streets. A largo school- room on tho first floor, with which two recitation-rooms connected, was devoted to the English department, and there wore similar accommodations in tho second story for the classical department. Elbridgc Smith (now master of tho Dorchester high school) was the first piinciiial, continuing from Aug. 5, 1845, * Since removed to tlie uoitli side of Wuluut Street. 612 CITY OF WORCESTER. the opening day, to September, 1847. His first assistant, who li;ul fharge of tlie lower school-room, was llashroiick Davis, second son of Gov. Davis. The other assistants were Martha K. Baldwin and Anna F. Brown (the late ]\Irs. Charles Washburn). William E. Starr succeeded Mr. Davis in September, 1846, and continued in charge of the English department for ten years. The other principals have been : Nelson AVheclcr, George Capron, L. D. Chapiu (for one month), Osgood Johnson, Homer B. Spraguc, Harris R. Greene, J. F. Claflin, Ellis Peterson (for two periods), Abner H. Davis, Joseph W. Fairbanks, and Samuel Thurber. Among the assistants have been : George P. Fisher (now of New Haven), James M. W^hiton, Phincas W. Calkins, James K. Lombard, and others who have attained to fame. Of the present corps, one is in her fifteenth year of service, and another in her twelfth. Changes in the internal arrangements of the high-school building were made, from year to year, to acconmiodatc the increasing number of jjupils, but it was impossi- ble to meet t!ic requirements of a rapidly-increasing population. The report of the school committee for the year 181)5, written by Kcv. Rush R. Shippon, expressed the hope that the building might be turned into a grammar school, and a more convenient and suitable building bo erected for the high school. This rccommendati(jn was afterwards renewed by JIayor Blake and Superintend- ent Marble. In February, 18G9, the school committee referred the subject to tlie sub-committee on school-houses, who made a favorable report, and, a month later, a petition for a new high school, signed by a thousand and six citizens, endorsed by the school committee, was referred to the City Council. The lat- ter body placed the matter in the hands of its joint committee on education. A lot of land, south of the old building and cast of the girls' playground, was bought; a design, fuinishcd b^- Gan)brill & Richardson, architects, of New York, was adopted ; and a cr)ntract was made with the jMessrs. Noreross Brothers for the erection of the building, under the supervision of Earle & Fuller, architects, of this city. The now building was erected upon the old playgrounds, the land in front being raised to form a terrace. The exercises of dedication, which were attended by a large number of invited guests from abroad as well as from tliis city, were held Dec. 30, 1871. Mayor Blake, to whom the enterprise owed much of its success, had died in December, 1870, and the Hon. Edward Eaile, mayor in 1871, presided at the dedication. He reviewed the history of the new building, and described its structure. Tho Hon. P. Emory Aldrich, chairman of the committee on the high school, receiving the keys at the mayor's hands, gave the history of the school itself. Other addresses were made by Abner II. Davis, master of the school ; Albeit P. Marble, superintendent of schools; the Hon. Alexander H. Bullotk, Hon. John Eaton, Jr., United States commissioner of education, and other gen- tlemen.* The first principal of the high school, Mr. Smith, gave a course of public * A full report of tho exorcises is preserved iu pamphlet form. SCHOOL STATISTICS. 613 lectures, the proceeds of which, supplemented hy a liberal gift from the Hon. Stephen Salisbury, were devoted to the purchase of philosophical apparatus. Ill 1859 the lion. Alexander II. Bullock, while mayor, gave the city $1,000 (which was $400 more thau his s.ilary) as a fund, the income of which should bo appropriated for the encouragement of scholarship and deportment. For seven years, twenty silver medals were annually distributed among as many scholars designated by a committee of citizens chosen for the purpose. In 18G8, with t!ie consent of the donor, the name of the fund was changed to the Bullock fund for the library and apparatus. A line-toned bell and two fountains lor the terrace were given, on the com- pletion of the new building, by William Dickinson, Esq. ; a large tower-clock and twelve smaller ones in the school-rooms by IMayorEarle, and a grand piano by the Hon. Stephen Salisbury. No less tlian sixty-four graduates or students of the school served with the northern army in the last war, and fourteen gave their lives to their country. The building and the additional land cost nearly $180,000. It is one of the very finest buildings, architecturally, in the city, but its site is unfortunate, for there is no easily accessible point from which its beauty can be fully appreciated. The whole number of sittings in the high school is 502. Six male teachers and seven female teachers are employed. The average attendance of pupils during the twelve months ending Nov. 30, 1878, was d41.1. Salaries paid to the thirteen teachers, $13,GG0. The present number of school-houses iu the city is 3(5, with sittings for 8,907 pupils. The average daily attendance last year was 7,124, which was 93.9 per cent, of the whole number bclonghig to the schools. The whole number of teachers was: — for the day schools, 191 ; evening schools, 11 males and 14 females; free evening drawing schools, 3 males. Of the school-houses twenty- t^cven are of brick, several of them of fine appearance. The buildings are valued at $595,500 and the land devoted to them at $246,017 more. Of tho 7,873 children belonging to the public schools at the close of the fall term iu 1878, the birth-places were as follows : — United States, 7,418; Ireland, 131 ; Canada, 110; England, 104; Germany, 9; Scotland, 29: France, 1; New Brunswick, 3 ; Nova Scotia, 7 ; Sweden, 3G ; Norway, 1 ; Denmark, 2 ; Wales, 3; Italy, 5; Africa, 1; Belgium, 3; Azores, 2; West Indies, 1; Poland, 1. The excellence of the public schools of Worcester has always been a barrier to the success of private schools to any great extent, and has had the cDTcct to keep the standard of the private institutions very high. For several years past schools have been maintained by the parish of St. John's Church, under the instruction of the Sisters of Notre Dame, with an attendance of about one thousand pupils. About one hundred pupils attend the State Normal School, and the number in the private schools is about ninety-seven.* . The cost of schools in the centre district for the year ending April, 1839, was $4,200.99. The cost for the other districts was probably a less sum. Tho * See the Couuty liistory iu tho lirst part of tliis work. G14 CITY OF AVORCESTER. nmount paid on account of llie scliools in the whole city iu 1878, was $141,- 078.41). Of the one hundred and ninety-one regular teachers, one hinidred are graduates of the Stale Normal Schools, or of the Worcester Training School, whitli was maintained for six years previous to the establishment of thcXormal School in Worcester, which was opened in September, 1874. The art of drawing is tauglit in all the scliools. In October, 1870, free evening drawing schools were estal)lisbed, open to all residents of Worcester over lli'teen 3-ears of age who do not attend school. In 1872 the upper rooms of the AValnut Street school-house were assigned to the use of these schools, and tiie sum of $2,000 was appropriated fur the purchase of casts of mastor- l)ieces of scnl|)ture, which was judiciously expended. Excellent results have been obtained from the tuition given in these schools. The school system of Worcester was represented at the world's fair held iu Vienna, in 1872. The contribution comjirised a largo printed chart, showing statislics of population, valuation, school attendance, &c. ; the gratlcs and sub- grades of scliools, topics of instruction for each grade, number of schools; of teachers, male and female, and their salaries; of i)upils, male and female, and their average age for each grade; and lacts about the other educational and benevolent institutions of the city ; also an album of photographs, sliowing the exterior of twelve or fifteen school-houses and their interior arrangement, and all the other institutions of learning about the cily, including the free public lil)rar3' and the Antiquarian Hall ; with these was a brief description of each ; and lastly eight volumes of catalogues and pamphlets relating to educa- tion ill the city. The contribution was honored wilh a diploma of merit. A fuller exhibition was made at the Centennial Exposition at Philadelpiiia iu 187G. CHAPTER XI. THE BEGINNING OF KAILUOADS IN AVORCF.STEU TIIE BOSTON AND AVOKCESTEK TIIE WESTERN KOAD TIIE NOUWICII AND WOUCESTEK TIIE PUOVI- DEXCE AND WOnCESTEU TIIE AVOKCESTER AND NASHUA THE BOSTON, BAUUE AND GAIIDNEK THE WOKCESTEU AND SIinEWSBUKY THE WORCESTER HORSE RAILROAD. The first railroad station in Worcester, built for the first railroad, the Boston and Worcester, occupied the site of the present AV^orccster Bank Block on Foster Street. The bell which gave wr.rning of the departure of tiains, was Kiispcnded from a tree near the corner of Main Street. The cars were small iiiid if the English iiattern, built after the fashion of stage-coaches, in two compartments with doors at the sides. The brakemen sat upon the "driver's THE WESTERN RAILROAD. 615 scat" on top, aud the coudiictor passed from car to car by a platform running along the sides. Tlic engines were small affairs, some of them imported from England. There were at first three passenger trains daily, on week days only, aud the time occupied in the journey was from two and one-half to three hours. Tho first through train arrived in Worcester, July 4, 1835.* Of the five original couductoi's on this road, Thomas Tucker of West- borough, and George S. Ilowe of this city, survive. The total receipts of tho road for the first six moulhs of its existence were : — from passengers, $72,- 912.12; from freight, $18,828.21; net income, $51,272.07. AVholc number of passengers conveyed, 72,558. April 25, 1838, Daniel Waldo, Stephen Salisbury and Levi Lincoln were incorporated, with their associates, under the name of the AVorccster Branch Railroad Company, with authority to build a railroad from Lincoln Square to the Boston and Worcester Railroad (through the valley), ;ind also with tho consent of the inhabitants of the town and the County Commissioners, to build a lino from Lincoln Squaic through Main Street to a position near the passenger station of tiie Boston arid Worcester Railroad. The road was built upon the first-named route about the year 1841. It followed the lino of Union Street for the whole or greater part of its course, aud was only abandoned after the opening of the Worcester aud Nashua Railroad. The original charter provided that only horse-power should be used, but this was modified to allow the use of steam. The road was a great convenience to the manufacturers along its line. A large brick freight-house was erected at tho junction of Lincoln Square with Summer Street, for which there could bo little use. The building was afterwards purchased by Hon. Stephen Salisbury, aud has since been used as a boot-factory and a storc-houso. By a resolve passed Juno 14, 1827, the governor was authorized to cause the survey of a railroad route from Boston to the State line of New York, and ■with the permission of the New York Legislature to the Hudson River. The Western Railroad was incorporated March 15, 1833, for the purpose of building a railroad from the western termination of the Boston and Worcester Railroad to the western boundary of the State. Of the original stock, $3,000, - 000, the Commonwealth, which is still a very large stockholder, took one-third. As "the western termination" of the Boston railroad was near Main Street, it was for many years claimed by Worcester people that the Western road should have its eastern terminus at that point. It was fixed, however, at Washington Square. But to comply with the spirit of the charter, and to bring passengers into the centre of the town, all the passengers trains wore '"switched" at the Square, aud arrived at aud departed from tho Foster Street station for several years, or until tho establishment of through express trains to Xcw York led to theabaiidunnunt of this practice. Regular trains to Springfield began running * See County History, pp. 83 et acq. G16 CITY OF WORCESTER. Oct. 1, 1839, the through time from Boston being a little more than six hours. Tiains began to run regularly over the Norwich and AVorcester Railroad (chartered in March, 1833), April 1, 1840. To secure a "union station," that (if the Boston and Worcester road was moved a few rods easterly, forming the cast wing of the new building, for which a south wing was built to accom- modate the Norwich cars, and a central portion contained the ticket-office, waiting and refreshment rooms, while the second story was occupied as a dwelling. The opening of this road, in connection with a line of small steam- boats running from Norwich, furnished the first continuous steam-line between Boston and Nevr Yoik. The famous Cunard line of steamships to England, originally ran only I)ctwcen Liverpool and Boston. Leaving Liverpool on Saturdays, and occupying frequently fifteen days for their trip, they often arrived at Boston on Sunday morning. The eagerness of passengers bound South to reach their destination, and the desire of New York merchants to obtain their fortnightly foreign mail without loss of time, together with the enterprise of the newspaper publishers of New York, led to the running of a special train over this route on such occasions, an event which drew a largo concourse of citizens to the station.* On the completion of the Long Island Railroad from Brooklyn to Grecnport. the first "through by daylight" line between New York and Boston was formed, passengers taking the ferry to Brooklyn, and being conveyed from Grccnport to New Loudon by a swift steamer. From the latter point they came, via Norwich, to Worcester, and so on to Boston. This route was quite popular for a time, but the completion of a railroad from New York to Springlield via New Iluven furnished an all-rail route which dispensed with all water-carriage, and the Long Island line, as a through route, was abandoned. The Providence and Worcester Railroad had for its first conductors William II. Jourdan and John E. Taft, the latter of whom has continued to act as conductor, except for a brief interval, to the present time. Foster Street was the railroad centre of the town at the time, and by arrangement with the Norwich and Worcester Company, the Providence road occupied the station of the former joint!}-, for about a year. From that lime until Feb. IG, 1877, the Providence cars ran to Green Street; they now run to the Union Station. " The Ciinard Company afterwards began to make weekly trips alternately to Boston and New York. On the completion of tbo telegraph to Halifax, an abstract of tho foreign news, prepared by the agi-nt at Liverpool of tbo American Associated Press, was telegraphed from Halifax to tho daily newspapers belonging to tho association. Later on, a similar abstract brought by a lino of steamers running to Quebec, was sent on shoro at Father Point (Point aux Ptres) on tho St. Lawience, from wheuco it was telegraphed in tho samo way. Tlio next step taken by tbo enter- prising newsmen was to have tho news despatcli, enclosed in a water-tight tin ease, snrmouuted by a red flag, thrown overboard from tho westward-bound steamers as they ncared Cape Raco to take a, new departure southward. Venturesome fishermen cruised in search of these packages, stimulated by tho reward attending their safe delivery at tho station at Cape Raco. The comx)le- tiou of tho submarine Atlantic telegraph-cable superseded all these ingenious devices. OTHER RAILROADS. 617 AUlioiiL'ti Worcester people had lent their akl, hy subscribing to the stock of the railriKids which had previously been built, the first one which was especially a h)cal enterprise was the Worcester and Nashua, opened Dec. 18, 1848. Tlio company, by purchase, obtained the right to use the north track in the Boston and Worcester station, and continued to do so until 1877, when the trair.s iicgau to run to the Union Passenger Station. For some time after the opening of the road, passengers and b:iggage for the West were transferred by conclies imtil an extension of the tracks was made to the "Junction," where exchanges were made with the Western and the Providence roads. Among the railroad routes to the west first discussed in jNIassachusetts, one over Iho Iloosac IMountain was prominent. As one link in the proposed chain, the Boston, Barrc and Gardner Railroad, which would practically bo a continu- ation of the Boston and Worcester road, was chartered in 1848. The building of the Western Railroad gave a check to the enterprise, for nobody was so wild at that time as to think that more than one route would ever be required. The charier was kept alive, however, by successive acts of the legislature; first, because it might prove wise to build it merely as a local road, and secondly, because the project of tunneling the Iloosac Mountain soon began to bo agitated afresh. The subsequent beginning and assured completion of the latter enterprise gave new life to the dormant charter, and the road to Gardner giving connection with the tunnel route was opened Sept. 4, 1871. This rail- road was largely built by the munici|)al aid of the towns upon its route. The city of Worcester subscribed $2G0,000 to the enterprise. Tlie depression in business which prevailed through the country since 1873 seriously aflfected the Nashua and the Gardner railroads, which had assumed burdens not contemplated in their original charters. ^Measures of relief, through scaling down the interest on their indebtedness, have been adopted, which it is hoped will be effectual. Tiie Worcester and Shrewsbury Railroad, chartered in 1873, was built upon the narrow-gauge jilan, and was opened to tralBc, for passengers only, as far as Lake Qiiinsigamond, the present terminus, in the same year. The road begins on Shrewsbury Street, north of the Union Station, follows the line of that street and East Worcester Street, and, running parallel with the Boston and Albany Railroad, climbs the ledge through which the latter is cut, and by a long cin-ve descends to the level of the lake. Hon. E. B. Stoddard has been president of the road from the beginning until the present autumn (1879). Ho is succeeded by Col. A. George Bullock. The receipts of the road for the year ending Sept. 30, 1S79, were $10,473.09. A little settlement, called Lake View, has sprung up on the eastern slope of the hill, near the lake, and a school-house, in whith religious services arc hold on Sundays, has been built for the accommodation of the pcoi)lc. The Worcester Horse Railroad, incorporated in 1801, was built in 18()3 from the corner of Lincoln Street and Harrington Avenue to Webster Square, CI 8 CITY OF WORCESTER. with braiiclics through Front Street to AYashiiigton Square, and through Pleasant Street to the junction of the latter with AVcst Street. Its president was James B. Blake. The heavy operating expenses of the tirst few 3cars caused the road to pass into the hands of the bondholders, and it was sold to a new c(jiporati >u, the Worcester Street Railway Conipaii}', chartered in 18G9, of which Augustus Secloy of New York is president. The road is .1 great public convenience, and is now a good iuvcstmcnt. The Pleasant Street spur was taken up after a few jears. CHAPTER XII. BIOGUAPHICAL SKETCHES: DANIEL IIENCnMAN JOHX CHANDLEU TIMOTHY PAINE TIMOTHY BIGELOW JOHN GREEN LEVI LINCOLN, SK. LEVI LINCOLN, JU. CHAHLES ALLEN JAMES TUTNAJI — FRANCIS ELAKE SAMUEL M. DUKNSIDE ALFRED D. FOSTER JOHN DAVIS JOHN C. BAN- CROFT EMORY WASHBURN IRA SI. BARTON SAMUEL C. WOODAVARD STEPHEN SALISBURY DANIEL WALDO ISAIAH THOMAS PLINY MERRICK CHARLES DEVENS — GEORGE F. HOAR HENRY CIIAPIN PETER C. EACON JOHN S. C. KNOWLTON GEORGE W. RICHARDSON ISAAC DAVIS ALEX- ANDER H. BULLOCK WILLIAM W. RICE — P. EMORY ALDRICH DANIEL W. LINCOLN PHINEHAS BALL JAMES B. BLAKE EDAVARD EARLE GEORGE F. VERRY — CLARK JILLSON EDWARD L. DAVIS CHARLES B. PRATT. It is not within the scope of this history to enter largely upon the biographic flcld. The labors of genealogical societies and the pens of descendants taking rt just prido in the character and achievements of their distinguished ancestors, 6avc perpetuated the memory of many of our former citizens. Wc can only make allusion to some families and some individuals who have been especially prominent in municii)al or political alTairs. Daniel Henchman, a prominent pioneer in the settlement of the town, built upon the west side of Lincoln Street, near Henchman Street. Capt. Henchman was not long a resident, but one of his sons, Nathaniel, lived there for many years. On the death of the latter, Capt. Henchman's granddaughter, Lydia Hancock, wife of Thomas Hancock, obtained the property by inheritance and by purchase from the other heirs, and on her death it passed to Gov. John Hancock, the leader of the Revolution, who built an elegant mansion on the land, which he frc(]uently occupied as a summer residence. The first clerk of the judicial courts for this county was John Chandler, son of John Chandler of Woodstock, then a town of this county. His father was the lirst Judge of Probate, first justice of the Courts of Common Picas and General Sessions, and colonel of the regiment of militia, offices which ho THE CHANDLERS AND PAINES. C19 retained until his death in 1743. John Chandler of Worcester came to the town from Woodstock in 1731, and continued to he clerk until 1751. It was common at that time for one man to hold several pnhlie offices, a custom which the increased duties of the positions, together with puhlic sentiment and in B(;mG cases the provisions of law, have to a considerable extent rendered obsolete. We find that our John Chandler, besides holding the ofHcc of clerk, was register of probate to 1754, register of deeds to 17G2, sheriff from 1751 to 1702, selectman from 1732 to 173G and from 1741 to 1754, and representa- tive from 1735 to 1740. On the decease of his father, he succeeded to the higher offices of jiidg.\ colonel and councillor. "His talents," says Lincoln, "were rather brilliant and showy than solid or profound. Willi manners highly popular, he possessed cheerful and joyous disposiiion, indulging in jest mid hilariiy, and exercised lilieral hos[)itality. While Judge of Probate, ho kept open table, on court days, for the widows and orphans who were brought to his tribunal b}' concerns of business. He died a.t Worcester in 17G3." John Chandlci-, son of the last-named, w;is born Feb. 20, 1720. He suc- ceeded, as if by inheritance, to the military, municipal and some of the judicial offices of his father, and w^as a man of high character, but became unpopular with his icilow-citizens on account of his Avarmly c?pousing the cause of the king at the outbreak of the Revolution. Ills integrity of character was shown by his course, to which allusion has previously been made,* on presenting his claim to the liriiish Government for less sustained l>y the confiscation of his estates in this comitrj-, the extreme moderateness of which g.iined him the title of "the honest refugee." The blood of the Chandlers still fijws in the famdy of Dr. George Chandler and of others who have received it on the maternal side, among them i)cing the Lincolns and Paines, II. G. O. Blake, Mrs. Georgo T. Rice and the children of the late Mrs. [Governor] John Davis. Timothy Paine, previously mentioned in these pages, f the j-oungest son of Nathaniel Paine of Bristol, R. I., came to Worcester with his father at the ago of eight years, in 1738. Graduating at Harvard College in 1748, he married, in the following year, the daughter of the last Judge Chandler. A s'.iort lime before the breaking out of the Revolution he began to build the mansion on the west side of Lincoln Street, now known as the "Oaks," the completion of which ho was obliged to defer until more peaceful times. The place has continued in possession of the family fur five generations. Timothy Paine was ancestor of the Paines now living in the city, of Mrs. W, W. Chamberlin, Mrs. William Kinuicutt, and of Thomas and Miss Harriet B. Kinnicutt. His eldest son, AVilliam, grachiated at Cambridge, studied medicine and began to practise hero in 1771. With Drs. Shepherd and Hunt of Northampton he opened, in 1772, the first apothecary's sho}) in the county. Visiting Europe in the interest of Lis business and his profession, he lauded in Salem on his rctinn in 1775, to find that war bad been declared and that ho had l)cea denounced as a loyalist * I'airu Ct-:>. t Pago 08i. 620 CITY OF WORCESTER. absentee. lie therefore retiirneel to Europe, completed his studios aud entered the army as apothecary, serving in that capacity and as suigooii until the close of the war. He lived for awhile at the island of Le Tcte, granted by tho Briti-h Government as a reward for his services, and afterwards at St. John, N. B., from which place he was elected member of the assembly of Xcw Brunswick. In 17S7, l)y permission of government, he returned to this coiuitry, remaining at Salem until the death of his father in ll'Sd, when ho returned to "The Oaks," which his father had left to a younger son, Nathaniel, in trust for William, Avho only came into full possession of the property when tho legislature of 1812 consented to his being naturalized as a citizen. Frederick William Paine, the youngest of Dr. Paine's five children, Ijorn in Salem in 1788, is well remembered for the prominent part which lie took in to\vn aflairs. Besides being representative to the legislature and assessor, ho was fur ten years one of the selectmen, and for five years chairman of tho board. lie was president of the Worcester Mutual Fire Insurance Company from 1831 to 1852, and its treasurer until his death in 18()[). Nathaniel Paine, Ijrothcr of Dr. William, was graduated at Cambridge in ITT.T, was county attorney from 1781' until ISOl, and judge of probate for thirty-live years following. lie died Oct. 7, 1840. His grandchildren now resident here arc Nathaniel Paine aud his sister. Miss Annie E., and their cousin, Mrs. W. W. Chamljcrlin. Col. Timothy Bigelow, a prominent horo of tho Revolution, was the fourth child and xouugost son of Daniel Bigelow, a substantial farmer who ciimo to AVorcester irom Watertown and settled in that part of tho town called Boga- choag. which was afterwards set off to AV'ard. lie was born Aug. 12, ITo'J. Having i)ccn apprenticed to a mechanic's trade, ho built a forge on the simlh side of Lincoln Square, and from that time was prominent in the aflairs of tho town and the nation. The want of a liberal education was in large uieasuro su^jplicd l)y careful reading, and a study of tho best English authors gjive him a command of language and a correctness of style which served him well in the spiritcil debates which subscrjuenlly took place between Whigs and Tories in town meetings, and in the political societies and clubs. As a, member of tho famous " Whig Club" which met in B(jston, he was the associate of AVarron aud Otis. He was a delegate to the lir?.t and sjcond sessions of tho Provincial Congress. Leading his thoroughly disciplined company of "minute-men" forth from AVorcester on the 19th of April, 1775, on arriving at Cambridge he joined the army as captain, and was soon promoted by Congress to bo major. Joining the unfortunate expedition against Quebec in the autumn of 1775, ho was made a jirisoner in the attack upon that stronghold and held until an exchange was effected in the following summer. In February, 1777, ho became colonel of the 15th regiment of the Massachusetts line, and when ho had tilled his ranks and disciplined his men ho led them to Join the northern army under Gen. Gates in New York. ITc and his regiment figured promi- EESIDENCi; OF WAUREN MI'FAltLAXL), WUHCESTEU, MASS. THE BTGELOWS. G21 nently at Saratoga, Vcrplanck's, Rahinson'.s Farms, Peckskill, Valley Forge, and West Point. Oa the tlisbaiuling of the army he contiuuctl for a time in the service, and, after a short term of service at West Point, was assigned to the command of the national arsenal at Springfield. Obtaining a release from Ihis post, he returned to Worcester, erected a trip-hammer and other iron- works near his former shop, and resumed his early avocation. But the chansed condition of the times was unfavorable to the sncecssful prosecution of his business. He remained in Worcester for a few years, where his tall, com- manding figure, his martial air, his dignified address, and his military reputa- tion commanded the respect of those who saw, as did his character the regard of those who know him. At that time the settlement of new lands Ijcgau to engage the attention of the people, and Col. Bigdow, with others, obtained the grant of a tract of 23,0-10 acres in Vermont, upon which he founded the town of Jlontpelicr. Ho died March 31, 1790, at the comparatively early age of fifty-one years. The six children of Col. Bigelow were : Nancy, who married Hon. Abraham Lincoln, long selectman and representative of the town, and member of the Council at the time of his death ; Timothy, Jr. (H. U., 178G), a brilliant law- yer; Andrew, whose death in 1787, at the age of eighteen, was one of tho causes which hastened the death of his father ; Lucy, who married Luther Lawrence of Grotou ; Rufus, a merchant at Baltimore ; and Clara, who married Tyler Bigelow, of Watertown, and Mas thus tho mother of George Tyler Bigelow, late chief j istice of the Supreme Judicial Court. Katharine, eldest daughter of Timotliy Bigelow, Jr., was married to IIoi;. Abbott Lawrence of Boston. Their son, Timothy Bigelow Lawrence, desirous of perpetuating by a visible token the memory of his distinguished ancestor, obtained a grant from the city in 18o9 of a lot twenty fjct square, cmbiacing the hero's grave, near the western limit of tlic old burial-ground on the cou;- mon, and Ihis lot was forever dedicated and appropriated to the pur[)ose. The cite is enclosed with a light iron fence on a granite plinth, from which a slope of turf leads to a solid block of granite nine feet square, on which the monu- ment is erected. The stylo is English Gothic of the thirteenth century ; the material white Italian marble. The formal ceremonies of dedication were held on the nineteenth day of April, ISGl, tho eighty-sixth anniversary of Col. Lincoln's departure on news of the march of tho British towards Concord, and a day itself most memorable in the amials of our country. A coujmittec of twenty-five citizens, with Hon. Levi Lincoln as chairman, co-operated with tho committee of the city government in the arrangements for the ceremony. The Worcester Light lufimtry, with full ranks, specially attached to the Sixth Regi- ment of Volunteer Militia, had left the city two days previously, and during the dedicatory exercises hero was marching through Baltimore. The attack hy tho "plus-uglies" of that city upon the regiment aroused the whole North to action. The other military companies were making active preparations to fol- 622 CITY OF WORCESTER. low their comrades. Tlio pioccssioii wbicli was formed, therefore, had no other escort lli;iii Ihc veteran members of the liiiht infantry, commanded by a former captain, D. ^VaId() Lincoln, and the Cadets of the Highland jMili- tary Academy. The city frovernmcnt and invited j^;icsts, the fire depart- ment, the Father Matliew Temperance Society, tlie German Turners, and citizens generally followed. The guests of the day included Col. Lawrence, Tyler Bigclow, E-q., of Watcrtown, nephew and son-in-law of Timothy Bigclow ; George T^-Ier Bigclow, Jr., son of the chief justice ; Rev. Andrew Bigclow, D. D., and IIt)n. John P. Bigelow, giandsons of Col. Bigclow. Ariivcd at (ho monument, it was formally consigned by Col. Lawrence, with approjiriatc remaiks, to the custody of the city. The lion. Isaac Davis, mayor of the city, received the trust in eloquent terms. The lion. Levi Lincoln bore testimony to the praiseworthy conduct of Col. Lawrence in erecting the monument, and gave interesting personal reminiscences of tho hero whom it commemorates. Col. Bigelow's relatives and the Hon. Ben- jamin F. Thcmias followed in eloquent and patriotic strains, the startling events of tlie time furnishing a Ihcmo for exhortation and invocation. Less than four months later another " Fii'tecntli Regiment of the Massa- chusetts line, commanded by Col. Charles Devcns, Jr. , — a regiment and a connnaidcr whose Inavc deeds rivaled tho'-o of their prototype, — was drawn np near ih;- monument, to receive a (lag from the ladies of Worcester, through the hands of the lion. George F. Iloar, in response to whoso appeal Col. Devcns said : . . . ' This symbol shall be returned untarnished. Defeat, dis- aster and death may come to us, but dishonor never.'" Dr. John Green, grandson cf Caiit. Samuel Green of Leicester, came to Worcester abiuit 1757 and settled on Green Hill, which is still occupied by bis descendants and is owned by his great-grandson, Andrew II. Gieen, Esq., of New York Cit}'. Dr. John Green's oldest son, John, built tho brick house on JIain Street, altered and now occupied by Dr. L. B. Nichols, and his oldest son, John, a doctor like all his ancestors above named, was bora and died there. Of the last-named Dr. John Green, "the good phy- sician," wo shall speak in another place. lie died childless; but his namo and [trofossional skill are continued in the person of his nephew. Dr. John Grcou, now resident at St. Lotiis, Mo. Among tho other children of tho second Dr. John Green were Eunice, mother of George G. and tho lato James L. Burbauk ; jMcltiah B. ; James (fither of Dr. John of St. Louis, Samuel S., librarian of the Free Puljlic Library, and James, an attorncy- at-law) ; and Elizabeth R., widow of Benjamin F. Ilcywood, who was him- self for many years a leading practitioner of medicine and a prominent citizen. William E. Green, son of (ho first Dr. John Green, born on Green Ilill Jan. 31, 17V7, where he died July 27, 1805, a lawyer by jirofession, was (he fa(her of William N. Green, who was for many years a trial justice hero and was THE LINCOLN'S. 623 jiulgo of Iho police couit from 1848 to 18GS. Of liis other ehildrcu, Julia E., Dr. Saimicl F. iiiid Mai-lia rosido hero at the present time. Levi Lincoln, first, the third sou of Enoch Lincoln of Ilinghani, graduating at Harvard College in 1772, and having studied law with Joseph ILiwlcy of Northampton, was admitted to the Hampshire bar; !)ut immediately removed to Worcester, where, except when absent on the public service, ho passed the remainder of his days. Ho was clerk of courts from December, 1775, to January, 1777, and from that lime judge of probate until 1781. Besides other important trusts, ho was representative to the General Court and member of the State Senate, represcnlalivc to Congress, for nearly four years attorncy-goncr.d in President Jellorson's Cabinet, lieutenant-governor of the State in 1807 and 1803, and acting governor after the decease of Gov. Sullivan. In 1811, President JeiTcrson, who had with regixt accepted his resignation as attorney -general, tendered him tho nomination of justice of the Supreme Court of the United States, an api)ointmcnt which was confirmed, but which failing vision coiupcUcd him to decline. lie died April 14, 1820, nged 71 years. l\Ir. Lincoln married Marlhn, Waldo, daughter of Daniel Waldo, Sr. Of his children, Levi, Jr., occupied a position in pul)lic lifo even more prominent than was his own ; Daniel Waldo was coimty aKorney of Cumlicrland County, JIc. Martha, who married Hon. Leonard i\I. Parker of Shirk'}', was tho mother of Mrs. Francis II. Kinnicntt and Mrs. Josepli I\Iason of this city. John Waldo was senator, coimty commissioner and sheriff, — pronounced by Judge Thomas to bo, "in clear, vigorous understanding and firm will and purpose, the equal " of his brothers. Enoch was representative in Congress from Maine for seven years, — from 1819 to 1S2G, — and governor of that Stale for the three years following; and William, the historian, scholar and v>it, succeeded to the paternal estate,* which ho embellished and adorned, so that "Lincoln's garden" was a favorite resort for the admirers of tho beautiful things in nature and tho decorations of art. Levi Lincoln, Jr., better known as Gov. Lincoln, born Oct. 25, 1782, graduated at Cambridge in 1802, and married Peuelopo Winslow Sever, dcsc'cndant of one of tho Pilgrim fathers and granddangbter of tho last Judgo Chandler. Of their seven children tho oldest, Levi, died Sept. 1, 1815, aged 33 years. AViiliam Sever, a graduate of Bowdoin College, was lieutenant- colonel and colonel of the 34th Massachusetts regiment in the late war ; was breveted brigadier-general; has been city marshal and alderman, and for sev- eral years trustee of tho Worcester Lunatic Asylum. Daniel Waldo, gradu- ated at Harvard in 18.'>2, was representative to tho General Court in 181G, mayor of the city in 18G3 and 1804, and is president of the Boston and Albany liailroad Corpoiation. Of his daughters, Mrs. Penelope Canfield resides in Worcester; Anno Warren, died July 24, 184(5, aged 27. Capt. George Lincoln, fifth child of Gov. Lincoln, entered tho regular army, and served as • Tho llencliman place, now owned in part by P. L. Moeu, Eacj. 624 CITY OF WORCESTEE. first lieutenant in the dosing scenes of the Siminolc war. At the ontbreak of tlic war wilh Mexico, he went M'ith the first troops to llie scone ; and after distinguishing himself in the sanguinary battles of Palo Alto and liesuca do la Pahna, was killed in the bitllc of Buena Vista, while bearing the orders of Gen. Wool, on whose staflF he was serving as assistimt adjutant-general. The reports of Gen. Taylor and Gen. Wool and the letters of his associate officers bore tribute t) his biavcry and his manly worth. Edward Winslow Lincoln (II. U., 1830), is the youngest sou of Gov. Lincoln : editor and owner of the " National vEgis" in 1817 and 1848, postmaster from 1840 to 18j4, and for many years commissioner of public grounds and secretai-y of the Worcester County riorlicullural Society, — his writings and his labors have commanded the admiration of the people. Jl.ijor Samuel Allen, who died Feb. 18, 18(53, in his 74th year; Hon. Charles Allen, who died Aug. 5, 18GI*, aged 72 years less four days; and the venerable and Rev. George Allen who survives, had for their grandparent •> James and Mary Adams of Boston, the last-named being a sister of Samuel Adams the patriot. Their father, lion. Josei)h Allen, moved I'rom Boston to Leicester in 1771, and came to Worcester ou receiving the appointment of clerk of cour(s in 177G.an office which he laid down in 1810 against the wishes of the court. He served as representative in Congress, in the Executive Council, and was twice one of the electors of president. He was of high character and of scholarly attainments. Major Samuel Allen was f.ir man}- years secretary of the Manufacturers' jNIutual Fire Insurance Company. Ills wife was sister of Hon. Pliny Merrick ; and his surviving daughter, Frances W., is wife of Samuel F. Haven, LL. D., librarian of the American Anti- quarian Society-. Rev. George Allen, born Fell. 1, 1702, a graduate of Yale College in 1813, was minister in Shrewsbury from 1823 to 1830 ; after which time he was for nearly twenty jears chaplain at the State Lunatic Hospital. He has retired from his profession to find the delight iu literature of which Cicero tells.* Hon. Charles Allen, after being admitted to the bar in 1818, practised at New Braintrec for six j'ears ; and then returned to Worcester, where he was law partner with Hon. John Davis until 1S31. Representative and senator for several terms, ho was judge of the Court of Common Pleas from 1842 to 1844, elector in 1844, representative iu Congress from 1840 to 1853, and chief justice of the Superior Court from 1858 until 18C8. The part which he had in the creation of the "free-soil party" of 1848 has been already described. He was one of the Titans of the Woi'cester bar. On the bench he was respected for his learning; and his decisions were received with ready acquiescence. James Putnam, who was conspicuous as a Loyalist hero during the exciting times preceding the Revolution, was born iu Salem in 1725, graduated at Cam- bridge in 174G, and began the practice of the law iu AVorcestcr in 1740. Chief • " Hwc etudia .... ecncctutan oblectant." OTHER NOTED FAMILIES. 625 Justice Parsons said of him, "He was, I am inclined to think, the best lawyer of North America." He succeeded Jonathan Sewall as attornoygeneral of the province; but was compelled at the outbreak of the Revolution to take refuge in Boston. He embarked for England in 177G, where he remained until the peace of 1783. In 1784 he was appointed member of the Council and judge of the Supreme Court of New Brunswick, and retained the latter office until his death in 1789. He was married in 1754 to Elizabeth, daughter of Judge John Chai.dler, a sister of "the honest refugee." Of their three children, the youngest, Ebenezer, married Elizabeth, the seventeenth child of the last Judge Chandler, and died at St. John, N. B., in 1798 at the age of 35. His widow afterwards came to Worcester, where she died Jan. 18, 1820. Their oldest son, James, who died Aug. 18, 1810, was also buried in Worcester. Of their other three children, none settled here. The Putnams now resident in Worcester are descended from cognate branches of the family. Francis Blake, the fifth son of Joseph Blake of Rutland, was born Oct. 14, 1774, and removed with his father to Ilingham in 1779. He graduated at Cambridge at the age of fifteen, and was called to the bar at the age of twenty, beginning practice in bis native town, where he continued to live until 1802, when he came to Worcester, where, after serving two years in the State Senate, and one year as clerk of courts, he died, Feb. 23, 1817. In court, sa3's Judge Thomas,* "he was 'the observed of all observers'; he won by his sweetness, and commanded by his dignity ; his learning and logic convinced ; his wit and humor convulsed bench, bar and jury ; his passion roused to indignation or melted into tears." Mr. Blake's wife, Elizabeth Augusta, was daughter of Gardner Chandler, and granddaughter of the last Judge Chandler. Three of the children of Mr. Blake are now living in Worcester, Francis, Harri- son G. O., and Elizabeth Chandler, widow of the late George T. Rice, and mother of George T. and Francis Blake Rice. Samuel M. Burnside, son of Thomas Burnside of Northumberland, N. H., was of Scotch extraction. His father, at first a merchant of Londonderry, took an active part in the French and Indian wars, and at their close became the first settler of Northumbciland. Young Burnside, graduating at Dart- mouth College in 1805, began the practice of law in 1810, at Wcstborough, but soon removed here. He was an able lawyer, a great scholar, and deeply- interested in the schools and other institutions of the town. The part which he took in framing the school system has been already dcscrii)ed. Ho mar- ried a daughter of Hon. Dwight Foster of Brookfield. His handsome estate at the north-west corner of Elm and Chestnut streets is still in the possession of his children. He died July 25, 1850, aged sixty-seven years. Alfred Dwight Foster, son of Hon. Dwight Foster of Brookfield, after graduating at Cambridge in 1819, stutlicd in the office of his brother-in-law, Mr. Burnside, and was his law partner from 1825 to 1827. He early retired * Address before the Worcester Fire Society, Jauuary, 1872. vol. II.— 79 > 626 CITY OF WORCESTER. from practice ; l)ut was always a prominent citizen. Of his children, Dwight has been judge of jJi'obate, attorney-general, and an associate justice of the Supreme Judicial Court. His widow, daughter of John W. Stiles, still occu- pies the homestead, next north of the Burnside estate, on Chestnut Street. "Honest John" Davis, son of Deacon Isaac Davis of Northborough, was graduated at Yale College in 1812. He was admitted to the bar in December, 1815 ; came to Worcester in the following year, and was successively law partner with Gov. Lincoln, Charles Allen and Emory Washburn. He was representative in Congress from 1824 to 1834 ; governor of the Commonwealth in 1834 and 1835 ; U. S. senator from 1835 to 1841", and from 1845 to 1853. He died April 19, 1854. Gov. Davis married, March 28, 1822, Eliza, third child of Rev. Dr. Bancroft. Their five sons were : John Chandler Bancroft, who was secretary of the American Legation at Loudon from 1849 to Decem- ber, 1852, assistant secretary of State under President Grant, afterwards U. S. commissioner at Geneva and U. S. minister to Prussia, and is now judge of the Court of Claims ; Hasbrouck, who studied theology and preached for a few years, served with distinction as general in the late war, and was lost by the wreck of the "Cambria," off. the northern coast of Ireland, Oct. 10, 1870; George H., who has been a resident, as a merchant, in San Francisco, from 1849 until the past few years, which he has speut in Paris; Horace, now living in S;in Francisco, a member of Congress for the term 1877-9 ; aud Andrew JNIcFarland, also resident at San Francisco. ' Mrs. Davi-, familiarl}' known in later life as "Aunt John," was alwa^'s a potent factor in the society of Worcester. After she had passed the allotted term of three- score years and ten, she was very prominent in her exertions in behalf of the northern soldiers in the field, and led in many an undertaking for their benefit. She died in Worcester, Jan. 24, 1872, aged 80 years 11 months. Emory Washburn, sou of Joseph Washburn of Leicester, graduated at Wil- liams College in 1817, was admitted to the bar of Berkshire in 1821, and, after practising six months at Charlemont, returned to his native home, where he remained until March, 1828, wLien he removed to Worcester. He represented Worcester in the lower branch of the Legislature in 1838, and in the Senate in 1841 and 1842, He was judge of the Court of Common Pleas from 1844 until December, 1847, governor of the Commonwealth in 1853, and in 1856 was appointed professor in the Cambridge Law School. Removing with his family to Caml)ridge, he continued to hold the professorship until his death, — ■ March 18, 1877. He was the author of standard works upon law, and of an excellent history of his native town. He was an indefatigable worker and most highly esteemed by all with whom he was brought in contact. Ira M. Barton, born in Oxford, graduated at Brown University in 1819 and practised in Oxford until 1834, when ho removed to Worcester. He repre- sented his native town in the Legislature in 1830, 1831 and 1832, and was State Senator in 1833, 1834. In January, 1836, he was appointed judge of [)ro- THE WOODWARDS, THE SALISBURYS. 627 bate, and held the office until 1844. He owned and occupied the Chandler house, which stood on the present site of Taylor's block, opposite the common. This honse was built by Sheriff Gardner Chandler, brother of the last Judge Chandler, who fled with the other Royalists in 1775. His confiscated estate, comprising thirty acres in that neighborhood, was subseqnentl3' owned by John Bush and his sons, Jonas and Richard P. Bush, and the late Dca. Benjamin Butman. The homestead estate was sold by Deacon Butman in 1825 to Calvin Willard, sheriff of the county, who sold it to Judge Barton in 1834. Judge Barton, after retiring from his office of judge, figured prominently at the bar for many years, and until his death, July 18, 1867, gave chamber counsel to a large circle of clients, who reposed fullest confidence in his learning and judgment. Of his children, the oldest, William Sumner (B. U., 1844), is city treasurer, and the youngest living, Edmund jM., is assistant librarian at the Antiquarian Hall. His j'oungest son, George E., served with distinction as captain in the late war, and died May 20, 1878. Samuel Bayard Woodward was son of Samuel Woodward, of Torringford, Conn. He practised medicine with his father for a few years, when he removed to Wcthersfield, where he practised for twenty-two years, and in Jan- uary, 1833, came to Worcester to fill the place of superintendent of the State Lunatic Hospital, then newly erected on a site given by the town to the Common- wealth. Dr. Woodward's labors here wei'c confined, except in the way of consultation, to the walls of the institution under bis charge, but his reputation with the faculty was high and wide-spread. Retiring July I, 1846, he removed to Northampton, where he died, Jan. 3, 1850, aged 64 years. Of his sons, Rufus (H. U.. 1841) is city physician, and Samuel and Henry are well-known citizens. Stephen Salislniry, 1st, came to Worcester from Boston in 1767, and in 1770 erected th(! " Salisbury'' Mansion," now standing on the north side of Lincoln Square. The son of Nicholas and Martha Salisl)ury, he married Elizabeth, daughter of Edward Tuckermau, and died in 1829, at the age of 83. Madame Salisbury, as his widow was always called, survived him until 1851. Mr. Sal- isbury was a trader, doing business first in a smaii building east of his residence, and afterwai-ds in the east part of his dwelling-house. His son, Stephen, born March 8, 1798, graduated at Cambridge in 1817, in the class with George Bancroft, his schoolmate, and was admitted to the bar, Init never practised his profession, finding occupation in the management and improvement of the large estate inherited from his father, and in travel, study and good works. He has been president of the Worcester Bank since 1845, and was for over twenty-five years president of the Worcester County Institution for Savings. He has been President of the American Antiquarian Society siuce 1854, and of the Worcester Free Institute of Industrial Science from its establishment in 1866. To each of the last two institutions he has been a most liberal bene- factor. 028 CITY OF VVORCESTEE. Daniel Waldo (son of the early settler, Cornelius), a merchant of Boston, after residing for a few years at Lancaster, came to Worcester in 1782. He first lived in the old hotel building, at the corner of Lincoln Square and Bel- mont Street. He built for his store the first brick block in Worcester, on the site now occupied by Henry W. Miller. He was the first president of the Worcester Bank, organized in 1804, but resigned the office after a few months, and was succeeded by his son, Daniel, Jr., who held it for forty-one years. A chaise, owned by the elder Waldo, is said by Lincoln to have been the first pleasure carriage in the town. * In 1806, Daniel Waldo, Jr. built a brick dwelling-house on the site of the present Centi'nl Exchange, with quarters in the south rooms of the first floor for the AVorcester Bank. In 1828 he built a more stately mansion just south of the last, which was moved back to Waldo Street in 18.54, to make room for Mechanics' Hall. Mr. Waldo, on retiring from active business about the year 1821, sold his store to his two apprentices,. Henry W. Miller and the late George T. Rice. The former continues the business at the same place. Mr. Waldo died July 9, 1845, at the age of 82 years. He was never married, but his name is perpetuated as a Christian name by the descendants of his cousin, the late Gov. Lincoln. Isaiah Thomas, the youngest son of Moses Thomas of Boston, was born Jan. 19, 1749. When he was three years old his father died, leaving his family in destitute circumstances. Before he had reached the age of seven years young Thomas was bound apprentice to Zcchariah Fowle of Boston, a printer in a small way ; and the printing-office, with a dictionary and a Bible as its only librarj% sup- plemented, however, with a few books purchased from the scanty "perquisites" falling to him and a few others loaned by interested friends, was his onh' school and college ; and well did it educate him. Before he had finished his apprentice- ship the spirit of resistance to the exactions of the British government had begun to pKevail, and he carried this spirit with him to Halif;\x, where he went at the age of seventeen, finding employment in the office of the "Halifax Gazette." The management of this sheet was entrusted to him by the easy- going proprietor ; but the appearance of several articles in its columns against the st:imp act, and the imitation, by the Halifax paper, of a copy of the "Philadelphia Journal," which came dressed in mourning and announcing its own decease from a complaint called the stamp act, made the loyal old town too hot for the young Whig, and in March, 1767, he repaired to Portsmouth, N. H. After trying his fortunes there and at Wilmington, N. C, and Charleston, S. C, he returned to Boston in 1770. On the 17th of July in * Even down to a fow years before Worcester became a city, the only private carriages drawn by two horses, and having a coachman, were those of Madame Salisbury, Gov. Lincoln and the Waldo family. Mr. Charles Nason, now mail-agent at the Union Station, -was, for many years, coa('lim.Tn for the Waldos. A receijit, dated July 17, 1788, for £55 Ss., given 1)y Benjamin Willard to laaiali Thomas, for " a fall-back Chaise made by Nathaniel Prentice of C'ainl)ridi;o and rpc'd above twelve months since," seems to militate against the claim above m.ado in lit-Ualf of Mr. Waldo. It was, ])erhaps, Cornelius Waldo who first indulged himself in the luxury. ISAIAH THOMAS. G29 that year appeared the first or sample uumber of the " Massachusetts Spy,'' Bubscriptious for which would be "taken iu by Zechariah Fowle, printer, in Back street, and by Isaiah Thomas, printer, in School-house lane near the Latin School." His copartnership with Fowle lasted but for three months, and after a somewhat irregular appearance during the winter, the paper reappeared as a weekly Manh 7, 1771. The paper, at first neutral in its professions, was very soon of a pronounced Whig complexion, and Mr. Thomas received the co-operation of Some of the ablest writers and thinkers of that school of polities. The power of the government was exerted to crush him in vain. Threats and legal summonses were alike disregarded. The venerable James Otis, though he had withdrawn from active practice, tendered the ofi'er of his services if kiiey should be needed. John Hancock, under date of April 4, 1775, addressed him as the "supporter of the rights and liberties of mankind." At this juncture the Whigs of Worcester made overtures for him to publish a news- paper here, and a few days before the battle of Lexington he privately packed up a press and tj'pe, which on a dark night were taken across the river to Charlestown, under the direction of Dr. Warren and Col. Timothy Bigelow. From Charlestown they were removed to Worcester, and set up iu the base- ment of Col. Bigclow's house. I\Ir. Thomas repaired to Lexington on the 19th of April, and, musket iu hand, bore a part in the repulse of the British soldiery. The next day found him iu Worcester, and on the 3d of May his paper reappeared, — the first printing done in any inland town of Kew England. This uumber contained his own account of the battle of Lexington, of which ho might have well said : " Quceque ipse vidi et quorum pars magna fui." The circumstauces of the removal to Worcester as well as the relations of his paper to the Provincial Congress are set forth in the following letter to a "delegate," of which the original is in the possession of the American Anti- quarian Society : — " WoKCESTER, October 2, 1775. " Sir, — I have the honor of receiving two letters from you which you sent by Order of the Hon. House, desiring me to send no more papers to them on account of llie Colony. In your last. Sir, you mention ' that it is thought highly improper to continue the papers if they were to be paid for ; but that it was possible you had been misinformed and that the Printers intended those papers as a present, as you till of late supposed.' I will agreeable lo your request, inform j-ou of the true state of the matter and humbly submit it to consideration. "A few days before the late memorable Battle of Lexington, I applied at Concord, to a member of the Hon. Delagates, then sitting in Congress, among whom was the Hon President, to ask their opinion, if it was not proper, as public matters then were, for me to remove my Printing Ofllce out of Boston, as I found tlie Liberty of the Press, in that devoted Capital, daily declining and myself growing more and more obnoxious to the Enemies of our once happy Constitution, and more particularly so to our then Military Masters (some of whom had carried their Resentment so far, as Twice to endeavor to assassinate me, for no other reason, as I humbly conceive, than doing the 630 CITY OF WORCESTER. little in my power, in the way of my Profession, towards supporting the Eights and Privileges of my countrymen.) The Hon. Gentlemen informed me that the}' thought it was hirjMy requisite I should immediately remove mj'self and printing materials out of Boston, as in a few days it might be too late. I accordingly went and, as soon as could be, packed up my Press and types, and in the dead of night stole them out of town. Two nights after this the Troops went to Lexington, and the nest evening Boston was entire!}' shut up : — I escaped myself the day of the battle and left every- thing my tools excepted behind me. Some of the delagatcs of the Hon. Congress, in a day or two after desired me to get my Press ready for Printing as they had several things to be done. I informed them of my unfortunate circumstances at that time — fleeing from Boston, without any money to purchase stock ; (I had just labored through another year with my paper, and it being the custom for subscribers to pa}- yearly, all that I should at that time have possessed, was then, and is noiv, in the hands of my numerous subscriliers now scattered throughout the Continent, to the amount of above Three Tliousand Dollars.) The Hon. Committee of Supplies were so kind as to order me paper for a present supply, as something was due to me from the Province, and I was requested immediately to continue the publication of the Massachusetts Spy. " In a few days after this, I was ordered with my tools to Concord, thither I directly went myself, but before my tools could possibly arrive, the Congress had adjourned to Watertown, and it was told me by several of that honorable body, that it was best for me to continue for the present at Worcester. As none of the Boston printers then published a paper, or were like to do it, myself excepted, I was desired b}' man}' gentle- men, both in the Congress, the different committees, and the army, to forward mine to them ; and several who I imagined knew my circumstances, told me I should send a number to the Congress and to the head Quarters : — I immediately Established a Post to the army to bring me intelligence, and carry my Papers to the Hon. Congress and ihe army. As matters were then in much disorder, together with my residing at such a distance, added to the desire I ever have had of doing my Country all the service in my poiver, I did what my superiors bade, without ever inquiring — WIio teas to reward me? — And as it was thought I could serve my country best in the capacity of a Printer, I went on publishing my paper, although at that time, I had not 200 subscribers exclusive of what I sent to the Hon. Congress, the Committees and Army. I never meant to make any great profit by the papers I have sent, and have only charged one Penny for each paper, which is hardly what it cost me for the Stock and Labor, exclusive of any emolument. If the Hon. House, after this detail (for the length of which I humbly crave your forgiveness, as I thought it best to be particular) should think I was too fortcard and do not merit any i^ay, either for the papers, or any part of the Postage, I shall content myself with their determination. " Your candor Sir will excuse the inaccuracies of this Letter, wrote in haste, as I have just now an opportunity of transmitting it to you. " I have the honor to be " your obliged, " humble servant, "IsA. Thomas. "P. S. "I have sent weekly, since my publishing in this place 100 papers to the Hon. Congress while they sat, and afterwards the same number to the Hon House — 80 to A BUSY PRINTER. 631 the Head Quarters in Cambridge — GO to Headquarters in Roxbury — 16 to the Hon Council, 16 to the Committee of Supplies, and 16 to the Committee of Safety. In the whole 288 papers, weekly for which I have only charged Gs per week postage. " 288 papers for twenty' weeks at Id each and 6d per week postage £31. — 10. "i. T." A post-office was established in the town for the first time, Nov. 15, 1775, Mr. Thomas receiving the commission of postmaster from Benjamin Franklin, and retaining it until 1801. Mr. Thomas established a newspaper, the "Essex Gazette," and a printing-office at Newburyport in 1773, a newspaper, the " Farm- er's Journal," at Brookfield, and printing-offices in other places. At one time, under his own direction or that of his partners, sixteen presses were in constant motion ; three newspapers and one monthly magazine were issued ; a paper-mill, established by himself at Quinsigamond Village in the south-east part of this town, and a book-bindery were in operation; and five bookstores were main- tained in this State and one each in Ncnv Hampshire, New York and Maryland. He was also a partner of Dr. Joseph Trumbull in a drug-store hei'e in 1780, and for some time after. As Mr. Thomas had opposed the stamp act as a restraint upon the liberty of the press, he naturally chafed under an act of our own Legislature in 1785, imposing a tax on advertisements. An old receipt book, now in the present writer's possession, has the following in the handwriting of the great printer : — " Worcester, Deer. IGth, 1785. Rec'd of Isaiah Thomas the sum of Three pounds in full for Duty on advertisements from the first of August to the 24th Nov'r inclusix'e. "Caleb Ammidown, Collector of Excise Duties, &c. " N. B. This is the first duty I ever paid Government for Liberty of Printing a news-paper — the first shackle laid on the Press since Independence, and laid on by the Legislature of Massachusetts onl}- ! I ! " Mr. Thomas retired from active business in the year 1802, being succeeded by his only son, Isaiah, Jr. His still active mind could not remain unemplo3'cd. He compiled and published an exhaustive "History of Printing" in two octavo volumes (recently reprinted by the American Antiquarian Society), which received the commendation of all who read it. With rare foresight ho con- ceived the idea of establishing an institution which should embrace the whole country and which, preserving the history of the past and the literature of the present, should hand thepi down to future time. He became the founder of the American Antiquarian Society, which he endowed with his valuable collec- tion of books, pamphlets and newspapers, with a large lot of land, a brick building for the library and legacies to help maintain it. He was its pi-esidcnt for nineteen \'ears, until his death April 4, 1831. Mr. Thomas gave the land for the Ijrick court-house, and contributed largely to the erection of a stone bridge at Lincoln Square. In 1806, ho made 632 CITY OF WORCESTER. a street aud gave it to the town ; it was christened with military and other ceremonies as Thomas Street. Dartmouth College gave him the degree of Master of Arts in 1814, aud Alleghany College that of Doctor of Laws in 1818. lie was a justice of the Court of Sessions from February 1812, to June, 1814. A memoir of his life, by his grandson Judge Thomas, has been published. Mr. Thomas was three times married. By his first wife, Mary Dill of Ber- muda, he had two children, Mary Anne and Isaiah. The latter succeeded his father in business, and removed to Boston probably in the fall of 1814. He had previously married Mary Weld of Boston, by whom he had eleven children. Of these the eldest, Mary Rebecca, married the late Judge Pliny Merrick. The 3'oungest, and the last survivor, received a name which combined that of two men of the Revolutionary period whose vocations were the same and whose characters were strikingly similar; Benjamin Franklin Thomas, born Feb. 12, 1813, removed to Worcester with his mother at the age of six years. Ho was graduated at Brown University in 1830, was admitted to the Worcester bar in 1833, was judge of probate from 1844 to 1848, judge of the Supreme Judicial Court from 1853 to 1859, and, having removed to Jamaica Plain, was chosen representative to Congress in 18G1, where he served for one term. He afterwards moved into the city of Boston, aud died at his country seat on the Beverly shore Sept. 27, 1878. He was a scholar, an orator and a gentle- man, all in the highest degree. Isaiah Thomas was buried in the only tomb ever erected in the Mechanic Street burial-ground, a solid, structure of hewn granite blocks erected by himself in 1817. The extension of Foster Street through this burial-ground, rendered the removal of the tomb necessary, and it was taken down in Maj', 1878, and set up in the Rural Cemetery. The whole structure was found to be in good order, and its contents appeared to have been undisturbed since the last interment took place. Tliree sides of the floor are occupied by brick recei)tacles, one at each side, and one at the rear, designed to receive coffins, each covered by a slate-stone slab inscribed with an epitaph. At the rear end are two upright tal)lets : one of slate-stone, quite elaborately sculptured on its semi-circular top with wreaths and mortuary emblems ; the other of white marble. Both were jjrobably originally erected over the graves in Mr. Thomas's lot, which was the second lot east of the Mechanic Street gateway to the cemetery. * * The inscriptions on the several slabs are as follows : — "Isaiah Thomas LL. D., author of the History of Printing, founder and first President of the American Antiquarian Society. Aixlently attached to the Independence of His Country, his efforts were identified with its cause, and through life his Press contributed largely to the policy aud literature of his ago. Born Jan. 30th, 1749 ; died April 4th, 1331 ; aged 82." " Mrs. Mary Thomas, consort of Isaiah Thomas. Died Nov. Kith, 1818. ^Et. 67 yrs. 5 mos." " Mrs. Eliza T. Kuos, died Dee. 23d, 1325, aged 41." "A sincere Chiistian triumphs o'er the tomb. Beneath this stone are the remains of Mrs. PLINY MERRICK. 633 Public services, instituted bj- the city government, incident to the re-inler- ment of the remains of Mr. Thomas, took place on Monday, June 24, 1878, with impressive ceremonies. Mr. Thomas was a prominent Freemason, and that organization took a conspicuous part in the e.Kcrcises of the day. A procession, under the marshalship of Gen. Josiah Pickett, including the Worcester County Commandery of Knights Templar, the Morning Star Lodge, of which Mr. Thomas was at one time Master, the Grand Chapter and Grand Lodge of Massachusetts, and other Masonic bodies, escorted to Mechanics' Hall Judge Thomas and family, the Maj'or and city government, the American Antiquarian Society, the Franklin Typographical Society of Boston, and other invited guests. At the hall prayer was offered by Rev. Edward II. Hall, pastor of the First Unitarian Church, which Mr. Thomas was influential in forming. His Honor, Charles B. Pratt, mayor, addressed the largo assembly in words fitting the occasion. The Hon. Stephen Salisbury, president of the American Antiquarian Society, bore a fitting tribute of praise to its wise, liberal and far-sighted founder, and set forth the good work which the society has accomplished. The Hon. John D. Baldwin, senior editor and publisher of the " Massachusetts Spy " (and of the daily edition from which it is now compiled), reviewed the history of Mr. Thomas and his newspaper. H. O. Houghton, Esq., of the Riverside Press at Cambridge (a son-in-law of William Manning, who was one of Mr. Thomas's apprentices), Hon. Marshall P. Wilder, president of the Massachusetts Genealogical Society, and Hon. Charles W. Slack of Bo^on, made appropriate remarks ; and letters from several gentlemen of distinction in other cities, expressing their regret at being unable to attend the exercises, were read liy the mayor. The procession, forming again, moved to the cemetery, and the re-interment took place with masonic ceremonies. Pliny Merrick, born at Brookfield, Aug. 2, 1794, the son of Hon. Pliny Merrick of that town, was graduated at Harvard College in 1814. lie was admitted to the Worcester bar in 1817, and practised at Worcester, Charlton, Swausey and Taunton until June, 1824, when he returned to Worcester. He was county attorney from July, 1824, until May, 1832, when he was appointed Ecbecca Fowie, mother of Mrs. Mary Thomas. Boru in Boston, Deo. 27th, 1727. Died Jells of the city were tolled from 12 to 1 o'clock. Public obsequies, under direction of the city government, were held at Mechan- ics' Hall^on the Thursday following. Seven former .mayors, with John C. Mason, Esq., officiated as pall-bearers. Addresses were made by Eev. Edward E. Hale of Boston, who had lieen his former pastor at the Church of the Unity here, and by Hon. Alexander H. Bullock. A long procession accompanied his remains to the Eural Cemetery, where a monument to his memory has since been erected, l)y order of the cit3^ government. 13th. — Edward Earle, the son of Timothy Earle of Leicester, came to Worcester in 1832, and engaged in the wholesale flour business with his cousin, Eobert Earle. In 183.5 he entered into the iron business with Joseph Pratt, continuing until 1848. He then became partner with his half-bi'other, Timothy Iv. Earle, in the manufacture of card-clothing. He represented the Legislature in 1851, was alderman in 1853, and mayor in 1871. He was a prominent member of the Indian Peace Commission, constituted by Pi'esident Grant, and for several years a member of the State Board of Charities, being chairman for some time previous to his death, which occurred May 19, 1877, at the age of 66 years. 14th. George F. Verry, born in Meudon, July 14, 1826, was .admitted to the bar Sej^t. 8, 1851, and is senior member of the firm of Verry & Gaskell, enjoying a large and lucrative practice. He was mayor in 1872, and State Senator in 1874 and 1875. 15th. Clark Jillson, a native of Whitiugham, Vt., was clerk of the Police Court and its successor, the Municipal Court, from 1858 to July, 1871, when • he was appointed judge of the First District Court of Southern Worcester. Ho was mayor in 1873, 1875 and 1876. He is a prominent member of the Society of Antiquity, and has one of the most valuable private collections of rare old books, especially of Bibles, in the city. 16th. Edward L. Davis, second son of Hon. Isaac Davis, was born April 22, 1834, .and graduated at Brown University in 1854. Was mayor in 1874, and State Senator in 1876. Mr. Davis has been for several j'ears treasurer of the Washburn Iron Company, having left the bar, to which he was admitted in 1857. He has succeeded his father as President of the Quinsigamond National Bank and in other offices of trust. 17tli. Charles B. Pratt is now (1879) in his third year of service .as mayor. Mr. Pratt was born at Lancaster, Feb. 14, 1824, His early life was devoted Ll1d|;i:Mir|.iili|i! f|l^ll^-!l-llH|l *Mi;S PLOW company's building, WORCESTLlt, M.l ,„,,5|f!l' SALISDVKY IllILDING, WOKCliSTEll, MASS. CEMETERIES. 639 to the business of submarine explorations, in which connection he engaged in some important undertakings. He established his home at Worcester in 1840. He represented the city in the Legislature in 1859, was a member of the Common Council 1856, 1857, and 1859, and an alderman in 1861-3, resigning in the last year to accept the office of city marshal under Mayor Lincoln. Mr. Pratt has for several years been president of the Worcester Agricultural Society, and is president of the First National Fire Insurance Company. CHAPTER XIII. BURIAL PLACES AND CEMETERIES MILITARY COMPANIES A POLITICAL SQUABBLE GRAND ARJIY OF THE REPUBLIC LIBRARIES MECHANICS' ASSOCIATION WORCESTER COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY WATER-AVORKS BREAKAGE OF A P.ESERVOIR FIRE DEPARTMENT TELEGRAPHIC ALARM CITY HOSPITAL — POOR FARM POLICE ASYLUM FOR INSANE RETREATS AND HOMES — BANKS BOARD OF TRADE SECRET SOCIETIES. The civil, military, and municipal institutions of Worcester are next to be considered. The earliest burial-place in the town was in a grove of oaks, at the corner of Summer and Thomas streets. Twenty-eight persons were buried here between 1717 and the establishment of the graveyard on the common, in 1730. The Mechanic Street bnrying-ground was set apart from the ministerial land by vote of the town in 1784. The one at "Pine Meadow" was bought and laid out in 1828. In 1834 the town purchased two other tracts for public cemete- ries. Of these, one of six acres was on "Raccoon Plain" (on the north side of Cambridge Street, west of the Norwich Railroad) , and the other, of a little more than twenty-two acres, was on the south side of Pleasant Street, extending from Newton Street to a point equidistant between Mason and Bellevne streets. The latter was sold in 1842, and the former in 1863. Fifty years ago, the village churchyards of New England were neglected, uninviting spots. A desire for a better state of things, — for a resting-place which should bo permanent, where members of the same family might be laid side by side, to remain unmolested by man forever, — led several citizens of this town to form the "Rural Cemetery Association," which was incorporated Feb. 23, 1838, and authorized to receive the gift of nine acres of land on Grove Street, which Daniel Waldo had purchased for the purpose. Later purchases have enlarged the cemetery to about fifty acres. In 1851 fifty-three acres, southward from New Worcester, were bought by the city for $1,850, and laid out as "Hope Cemetery." Hon. Levi Lincoln, the first president of the Rural Cemetery Association, was first chairman of 640 CITY OF WOECESTER. the trustees of the new ceraeterj'-, which now conaprises sixty-seven acres. About nineteen hundred lots had been sold at the close of last 3'ear, and the good taste of the trustees is making the grounds picturesque and attractive. Tiie Worcester [heavy] Artillery was formed about the year 1783, its first captain being Maj. William Treadwell, one of the most gallant officers of the army of the Revolution. Its two guns were kept in the gun-house upon the common ; but gun-house and company ceased to exist at nearly the same time, about the year 1840. The Worcester Rifle Corps existed from 1823 to 1835. Besides the volunteer companies, there were also companies of militia, under the laws which prevailed during the first part of this century. In 1836, besides the volunteer company of infantry and one of artillery, there were two large companies of militia, with a foi'ce of more thau two hundred men. One of the oldest militaiy organizations in the State is the Worcester Light Infimtry, which was chartered in 1804, and pai'aded for the first time in May of that year, under the command of Capt. Levi Thaxter. The memorable political campaign of 1840, with its log-cabins and hard- cider, its " Tippecanoe and Tyler too," is not forgotten l)y anybody who was then above six or eight years of age. Both AVhigs and Democrats began, early in spring, to prepare for a jjolitical celebration of the Fourth of July, and each party desired the services of the Light Infantry, the only military com- pany in the town, as an escort. Col. John W. Lincoln, anticipating formal action by the Whigs, gave a verbal invitation to the commander, Capt. D. Waldo Lincoln, to perform the service, but this was followed in a few days by a written invitation from Levi A. Dowley, chairman of a regularly appointed Democratic committee. The communication of these two invitations to the company caused an explosion as if a blazing brand had been thrown into a powder magazine.* An earnest debate followed, and it was decided by a strict party vote, to accept the invitation of the Democrats. The Whig members declared that they would never perform another day's duty, and their Whig ommandcr, although himself retaining the command until after the Fourth of uly, procured their discharge. This rupture in the company was the imme- liate cause of the formation of the Worcester Guards, and for several years he infantry recruited their ranks from the Democrats, while none but Whigs nlisted in the Guards. Worcester, after all, was not the scene of the rival elebrations. They were transferred to Barre, where the Whigs, with Daniel vVebster for orator, and a Fitchburg company for escort ; and the Democrats, escorted by the Worcester Light Infantry with its Whig captain, and having George Bancroft for orator, met upon the common, — one of the most memor- able gatherings ever assembled in the county. The outbreak of the civil war, in 1861, found the light infintry ready for duty. Its departure and experience as the left-flank company of the sixth * The account of tbis episode is gathered from MSS. by Hon. D. Waldo Lincoln. PUBLIC LIBRARIES. 641 regiment, have been described in the foregoing pages. The present officers of the company are : — F. Linus Child, captain ; Winslow S. Lincoln and Frank H. Sprague, lieutenants. Natin-all_y enough, the company formed here in 1840, first took the name of "Harrison Guards," which in a few j^ears was changed to Worcester Guards, and again, a few years later, to Worcester City Guards. A few years previous to the war, the company were armed with rifles, and the third battalion of rifles v.'as organized, which followed close upon the light infantry to the scene of war. Edwin R. Shumway is the present captain, and William J. Stamp and George H. Cleveland, lieutenants. In the spring of 1869 a section or platoon of light artillery, with two guns, was organized here and designated as the Fifth Battery. Its appearance, under Capt. Henry W. Reed, at the September muster, was so creditable that author- ity was given to increase its force to a full battery of four guns, and it was re- organized as such in November of the same year. It was unattached until 1.S70, when a battalion was formed from this company and one in Law- rence, when the Worcester company took the designation of Battery B. A re-organization of the militia during the winter of 1878 left the company again unattached. John S. Rice was captain until July, 1876, when he was succeeded by Capt. George L. Allen, the present commander. This battery has always stood at the head of similar organizations, which has been due in part to the fitness of its ofiicers and the character of the men, and in part to their long service together. The "Worcester Continentals" were organized in the spring of 1876, with a view to taking part in the celebration of the Fourth of July. They adopted the costume of the officers of the Continental army, and large numbers joined their ranks. Their parades are alwaj's attractive, and their annual excursions are very pleasant. The Legislature of 1879 gave them a charter, and thcj' are now organized as a battalion. W. S. B. Hopkins, who has been the com- mander from the start, is Lieut. Colonel; E. A. Wood, Adjutant; W. F. Pond, Quartermaster; F. H. Kelley, Surgeon. The captains are: E. J, Russell, Nathaniel Paine, W. F. Ewell, and F. A. Lelaud. The local Post of the Grand Army of the Repul)lic, organized April 13, 1867, is the largest, and. was the tenth in the order of organization, in this Commonwealth. It occupies Brinley Hall, which was for many j-ears the favorite place for lectures, balls and other gatherings. It has a carefull}' guarded relief fund, to which additions are annually made by the exertions of the members through dramatic representations, fairs, or by other means. The Post has the warmest sympathy of the community, who readily respond at any time to its calls for assistance made in this agreeable form. A "Social Library" was formed here in 1793, but little is now known of its history. A library was established for the circulation of books by the Worcester 642 CITY OF WORCESTER. County Athenajura, an association incorporated March 12, 1830. Rev. George Allen was president ; Frederick W. Paine, treasurer, and William Lincoln, secretary. The books were stored in a room of the Antiquarian Hall, and could be taken only by shareholders. The association became extinct after some eight or ten years, and their collection became blended with that of the Antiquarian Society. The Worcester Lyceum* was formed Nov. 4, 1829, for mutual instruction and improvement. Jonathan Going was the first president, and Anthony Chase, secretary. A circulating library was soon established, which was accessible to all who pui'chased tickets to the annual course of lectures. The lyccum lec- tures are still maintained by the Worcester Lyceum and Natural History Association. The library has been merged in the Free Public Library of Worcester. Dr. John Green, f on Dec. 27, 1859, gave to the city a choice library of about 7,000 volumes in trust for the free use of the citizens forever, as a library of consultation and reference, to be used only in the library building. The conditions of his gift required that the library should be managed by twelve directors, elected by the city council, and that the city should furnish a suitable building, to be kept warmed and lighted, and should pay the salary of a libra- rian. The Lyceum and Library Association seconded Dr. Green by giving their library of about 4,500 volumes to the city at the same time, as the nucleus of a circulating library. In 18G5 upwards of $10,000 was raised by popular subscription as a fund for the maintenance of a free reading-room. The library building on Elm Street, which is generally well adapted to its uses, was erected by the city in 1860. Dr. Green, who had supplemented his original gift by constant additional ones, amounting to 4,968 volumes, died in the autumn of 1865, leaving $30,000 and the reversion of certain trust funds to the city, with careful provisions for the custody and appropriation of the whole. In brief, one-fourth of the income is to be added annually to the fund, and three- fourths to the purchase of books for the reference department. The City Council has shown commendable discretion in the selection of the directors, and the city is fortunate in receiving the services of Mr. Samuel S. Green as librarian, whose original ideas as to the proper use and real cud of a public library have not only made our owu institution a potent factor in the education of the whole people, but have also, through his writings and his example, pro- duced the same effect in many other cities of the country. It is this librarian's theory that visitors coming for information should be encouraged and not repelled ; that, by personal attention, every facility should be given them to obtain the exact information which they need. Putting this theory into prac- tice, the great mine of information contained in the library is thoroughly worked and its wealth, extracted with intelligence, steadily enriches the brains of the people. The statistics for the year 1878 show that on an average eighty- * See Vol. I., page 137. t See iiage 6'22. MliCnANlCS' ASSOCIATION. 643 three volumes a clay were given out in the " reference departmeut" for serious inquiry, and in the circuhiting department four hundred and thirty-cue, to be taken to the homes of applicants. The number of volumes in the library at the close of the year v/as, Green Library, 18,628 ; Intermediate Depart- ment (from which books can bo lakon under certain restrictions), 8, 93^ ; Circulating Department, 17,;'')88. The circulating department is closed on Sundays and legal holidays, the reference department on legal holidays only, and the newspaper reading-room is open every day in the year. The hours on Sunday are from 2 to 9 p. M. The average attendance on Siuidays in 1878 was two hundred and forty-eight, and the average number of volumes delivered on Sundays for use within the building was forty-eight. A large number of reference-l)ooks, such as dictionaries, lexicons, encyclopaedias and the like arc placed in reach of visitors ; and no account is made of the use of these. The Green Library fund amounted, Nov. 30, 1878, to $37,496.14. Nov. 27, 1841, n meeting of active mechanics and of those interested in their welfare, was held in the town hall, to consider the subject of forming a Worcester County Mechanics' Association. Ichabod Washburn presided, Albert Tolmau was secretary ; and a committee, of which Anthony Chase was chairman, was chosen to report a constitution. The constitution was adopted Feb. 5, 1842, when William A. Wheeler was elected president; Ichabod Washburn, vice-president ; Albert Tolmun, secretary, and Elbridge G. Par- tridge, treasurer. Courses of lectures have been given nearly every year to the present time. The lirst Mechanics' Fair was held in September, 1848. Others have been held in 1849, 1851, 1857, and one or two in later years. An . act of incorporation was obtained in 1850, giving authority to hold real estate to the amount of $75,000 [increased to $125,000 by an act of 1856], and per- sonal property to the value of $25,000. In May, 1854, Ichabod Washl)urn oflered to give $10,000 for the purchase of land and the erection of a building, if a like sum could be raised by subscription. The Waldo estate on Main Street was purchased, ground was broken in July, 1855, and the corner-stone was laid with impressive ceremonies on the 3d of September.* The building was completed and dedicated March 19, 1857. It is 100 feet 5 inches front by 145 feet, with a height of 85 feet to the apex of the pediment. On the lirst floor arc four stores. On the second floor are a reading-room, library and otlices, and "Washburn Hall' (named for Dca. Ichabod Washburn), which is 50 by 80 feet and 17 feet high. " Mechanics' Hall," on the third floor, 80 feet by 131 and 40 feet high, will seat, in round numbers, 2,000 persons. The burden of carrying the building enterprise forward to completion proved almost too great for the association to bear, but the generous contributions of citizens, many of whom were ineligible to membership, enabled it to redeem and hold the prop- erty. Its debt is now but $21,000, which is secured by a mortgage. The number of members, in April, 1879, was 1,147 ; of whom, 15 were honorary, * See an " Historical Slietcli"' puljlisLed by tlie Associatiou July, 1801 644 CITY OF WORCESTER. 169 life, 807 active, and 156 apprentice members. The library, from which members and their families can take books to be read at home, contained 5,299 volumes. For several years a drawing-school for apprentices was maintained during the winter months, but the generous provision made by the city for instruction in mechanical and free-hand drawing has rendered it unnecessary for the association to furnish it longer. The fears of twenty-five years ago, that the building was projected on too grand a scale, have proved groundless. Already the larger hall is pronounced too small for certain uses, but as a rule it admii'ably meets the public need. The Worcester County Historical Society was incorporated Feb. 19, 1831, for the purpose of collecting statistics for a full history of the county. The Hon. John Davis was president during its existence of some seven or eight years. The centennial anniversai-y of the erection of the county was celebrated by this society with an address from Mr. Davis and other ceremonies. The field of labor which this society aimed to cover is now well occupied by the Worcester Society of Antiquity.* The Legislature of 1798 authorized Daniel Goulding to bring water from a spring on his own land to his buildings on Front Street, for the accommodation of himself and other inhabitants, and also authorized the selectmen to take water from his pipes for the extinguishment of fires. No trace of such an aqueduct can now be found, nor is it remembered by those of our fellow-citizens who were active in town affairs a half century ago. Several private aqueducts, varying from a quarter of a mile to two miles in length, have been laid at dif- ferent times, and some of them are still in service. The longest one, built by Ethan Allen in 1848, extended from the farm of Capt. Lewis Barnard on Burn- coat Street, to Mr. Allen's house on Main Street, opposite the city hall. The court-houses, and several private residences and stores were supplied from this aqueduct. It was subsequently purchased by Harrison Bliss, Esq. Since the conversion of Mill Brook at Lincoln Square into a sewer, the Allen Aqueduct has been discontinued south of that point. In November, 1842-, the town appointed a committee to consider the matter of obtaining a suppl}'^ of water for protection against fire. In the following summer the water of "Bladder Pond "was analyzed by Dr. Charles T.Jackson of Boston, who pronounced it purer than any of our common well waters. In November, 1843, the selectmen were authorized to buy the pond at an expense not exceeding $300, and to construct an aqueduct at a cost not to exceed $12,000. Without carrying out this order, the town voted, April 1, 1844, to pay $500 yearly to any individual or any company who should bring iu.the waters of the pond. On Feb. 28, 1845, the inhabitants of the Centre District were incor- porated as the Worcester Aqueduct Company. " Bladder Pond (says Lincoln) has the shape described by its appellation. It is situated on the north-cast part of Chandler Hill, and contains five or six acres. The surface has been gradually ' See Vol. I., page 136. AKCAlJi: MALLKABLE IU(»N WORKS, WORCESTER, 3IASS. (Warren McKarland, rroprietor.) tf^ ^ -*f -'»'«-»* 4 sirisjijB inn g -it _ '^^Unlifs^ :i:^ U: -^^ L E. W. VAILL'S CllAlK WOKliS, WOKCESTEB, MASS. i WATER-WORKS. 645 diiuiuishing as the roots of vegetation have stretched themselves over its waters, forming a floating belt around on which it would l)e dangerous to tread." This sheet of water was renamed " Bell Pond " (an appellation which its shape in some measure describes). Stephen Salisbury, Isaac Davis, William A. Wheeler, Henry W. Miller and Samuel Davis were appointed a committee of managers of the new company ; and on May 24, 1845, the town voted to surrender its own rights in the pond, and either to pay the company $400 yearly as long as the aqueduct should be efliciently maintained, or to pay $500 a year until the net income, including this sum, should exceed six per cent, of the cost of build- ing and maintenance, when the excess should be applied to reimbursing the town. The company accepted the latter offer. The work of construction was completed in 1845, and the selectmen reported, March 2, 1846, that the water had been twice successfully used in the extinguishment of fires. The act incor- porating the city, passed Feb. 29, 1848, authorized the city to purchase the rights and property of the Aqueduct Company, and the purchase was completed on the 8th of June following. June 2, 1851, the aqueduct commissioners reported that there were fifty-six water-takers, using 22,000 gallons daily. At this time it was evident that a larger supply was needed. In 1854, on recom- mendation of Mayor Knowlton, Mr. M. B. Inches of- Boston was employed to make a thorough examination of the sources in and around the city from which an additional supply could be obtained, and his elaborate report, filling a pam- phlet of about forty pages, was presented to the city council. During the autumn of 1855 and the following winter, a daily supply of about 16,000 gal- lons was obtained by pumping from Mill Brook, near Exchange Street. In the summer of 1856, Mr. Inches was employed to make a special survey of the country around lienshaw Pond in Leicester, with a view to store up its own waters, and those of Kettle Brook to be conducted into it by artificial means. The question of adopting such a plan was submitted to popular vote at the fol- lowing municipal election, and was lost through an informality in the vote of one ward. During the winter of 1858-9, the pumps were again employed. In the summer of 1860, the valley of Lynde Brook was examined by order of the city council. ' The survey, and an analysis of the water, made by Dr. Jackson of Boston, were favorable, and the mayor was authorized to petition the Legis- lature for the right to take the waters from that stream. Lynde Brook is by nature a small and quiet stream, rising in the south-easterly part of Paxton, and flowing west of Tataesset Hill in a southerly course until, crossing the county road to Leicester in the village of Cherry Valley, it unites with Kettle Brook. Near its terminus it flows through a deep ravine whose sides, in time of heavy rains or thaws, pour down a sudden copious supply, and it was apparent that a dam across the southern end of the ravine would catch and hold for use a very large amount of water. But the successive city governments were conservative, and the water came not in of its own motion. The need of action was laid before the city by Mayor D. Waldo Lincoln in his inaugural address in 1863, and a 646 CITY OF WOECESTEE. petition representing several million dollars of taxable property, was sent in to the city government, asking for more water. I\Ir. Phinehas Ball, a learned engineer, the city's water commissioner, was instructed to look for a supply, and made a report giving the result of his survey of the basins of Lyude' Brook, Henshaw Pond and Kettle Brook. The year passed without any action in the matter. The dam at Bell Pond was raised, however, three and one-half feet. The question of bringing water from Lynde Brook was submitted to a popular vote in January, 1864, and the people pronounced in its favor. The work was now begun in earnest. A dam was begun iu April, 1804, and finished in the summer of 1865. The reservoir thus created had an area of forty-eight acres, and a capacity of 228,000,000 gallons. Water was let into the pipes Nov. 14, 18G4, and the event was celebrated on the 22d day of the month by a parade of the fire department and a public meeting in Mechanics' Hall. In 18G7 a distributing reservoir, holding about 3,000,000 gallons, was built in the village of Valley Falls. The increased use of the water diminished the head in the city to such a degree that upon Union Hill, and near Grant Square, the pipes were sometimes nearly empty. Accordingly, in 1873, an independent main was laid from "Xipnet Pond" (the name given to the storing reservoir by the city coun- cil of 1864), to the high lands on the east side of the city. The cost of this "high service'' was $231,597.35. The dam had been raised five feet in 1870, and ten feet in 1871, giving a storage capacity of about 560,000,000 gallons. On the afternoon of Thursday, March 30, 1876, — after two or three days of public anxiety on account of the increasing size of a leak which had been for some time existing, — the whole structure of the dam was carried away. The extent of the damage caused by letting loose this vast amount of water, with the impetus which it derived from its high storage ground, is thus described in a report of the committee on water to the city council, written by Hon. Clark Jillson, who was mayor at that time : — " Dams, briflges, mills, roails and dwellings were swept awaj% but no lives were lost. The first building destroyed was the new barn at the Hodges place, near where Lynde Brook crosses the Leicester road. This barn was entirely destroyed, and the house near it greatly ifijured. The dam at the mill of J. A. Smith & Co. gave way, antl the L part of the building, containing the office, occupied at the time bj' the telegraph operator, was destroyed, and communication with tlie city ceased. Two tenement-houses, one occupied In' two, and the other by four families, were swept off. Next below was the mill of Wright Bottomly, standing ou the southern bank of the stream ; and nothing was left to show that an3- structure ever occupied the spot. The large brick mill of Ashworlh & Jones was very seriously injured bj- the washing away of its rear part. Two dams belonging to this company were demolished, together with the boiler-room and gas- works. The boiler was found half a mile below. At the Hunt mill considerable damage was done, the d3"e-house, boiler-house and dam being mostly swept away At .James- ville the dam was destroj'ed, and a part of the brick mill carried away. About 500 feet of the track of the Boston & Albany Railroad was taken olf, and the embankment washed away. At Stoneville the dam was carried off and considerable other damage PEOTEOTION FROM FIRE. 647 was done. The arch bridge under the Boston & Albany Railroad [at New Worcester] was damaged so that reconstruction was necessary. Curtis's dam at New Worcester gave waj', and a portion of tlie nortli end of Curtis & Marble's mill was carried off. The bridge just below, under the Boston & Alban)^ Railroad, gave way and was totally de- stroyed. At one time the water came within fifty feet of the horse-car track at Webster Square. The dam at Hopeville was carried awa\-, and the mill badlj- flooded. Still- water bridge, under the Norwich & Worcester Railroad, was badly damaged and has been rebuilt. The railroad embankment in the vicinity of this bridge was much washed. The Wicks Manufacturing Company had a part of their mill destroyed, and the South- bridge street bridges were carried off. A large part of the Island District was flooded, several houses having their first stories filled with water. The stone arch bridge at Quinsigamond [village] was much injured and in great danger of being entirely de- stroyed, though but little damage was done below that point. The Boston & Albany Raih-oad Company were obliged to run their trains over the Boston, Barre & Gardner Railroad to Winchendon, and thence to Palmer over the Ware River Railroad, until temporary structures could be erected where the road had been damaged." The iiatural flow of the brook was turned into the pipes a few days after the disaster, and on the 3d of April the waters of Parsons Brook were diverted to the " Hunt" or distributing reservoir. The use of the water of Tatuuck Brook and its reservoirs was obtained, and a steam-pump was set in operation at the pond of Loring Goes, in New Worcester, May 5. A second one was started July 9 ; and from July 22 to Jan. 16, 1877, the whole supply of the city was obtained by pumping. By order of the city government specifications for rebuilding the dam were made by Wm. J. McAlpiue of Albany. The work was completed May 31, 1877, at an expense, includiug the cost of pumping and the dam at Parsons Brook, and not including damages, of $112,528.64. The capacity of Nipnet Pond is now 681,000,000 gallons. There are now 76.36 miles of main pipe, and 41.2 miles of service pipe. At a town meeting in March, 1786, a committee Avas appointed to report upon the cost of a fire-engine for the town ; but, although the committee reported in favor of the purchase, at an adjourned meeting, the town declined to make the purchase. In 1790 four fire-wardens were appointed, and subse- quently an engine was bought by private citizens, and known as the "proprietors' engine." Jan. 21, 1793, "for the more effectual assistance of each other and of their townsmen in times of danger from fire," twenty-two gentlemen associated themselves as the AVorcester Fire Society. Each one of fts members was supplied with two leather buckets, in which were kept two stout, capacious bags, a bed-key and a screw-driver, and on an alarm of fire they repaired to the scene with their equipments. At the quarterly mcetmg, in Ai)ril of the same year, six ladders were ordered to be purchased, and these were distributed at central and easily accessible points on or near Main Street. Tiie oro-anizatiou is still maintained, and the members, limited in number to thirty, are required, under heavy penalties, to procure and keep in good order tiie equip- ments ori-inally required. The senior member, who has seen fifty-five years 648 CITY OF WORCESTER. of service, is Hou. Stephen Salisbur3\ The present list includes the attorney- general of the United States, an ex-governor of the State, a senator and a representative in Congress, a judge of the U. S. District Court, a justice of the Superior Court, and three ex-ma3'ors of the city. Quarterly meetings, of a social and literary character, are held ; but for many years the efficiency of the regular department has rendered it unnecessary for the members to turn out in case of fire. The "Mutual Fire Society," formed in July, 1822, and the " Social Fire Society," established iu April, 1840, were similar institutions, which flourished for a while, but which have long been at rest. In the same year that the fire society was formed, an engine was bought by the town ; but it was not until 1835 that a regular fire deparment was created. Isaac Davis was chosen chief engineer, Lewis Bigelow, assistant, and Ichabod Washburn, clerk. Steam fire-engines were introduced in ISHO, when the first steamer, called " Gov. Lincoln," was bought at Seneca Falls, N. Y. It was of a rude pattern, but a most efficient engine. The department now owns fifteen horses, five steam fire-engines, one mounted Babcock fire-extinguisher of large size, seven four-wheeled hose-carriages (additional to those belonging to the steamers), and three hook-and-ladder trucks, — all the apparatus being of the first class. The first steamer owned bj'' the city (the old "Gov. Lincoln"), and one hook-and-ladder truck, are kept in reserve, and the INIouut Vernon Hose Company, with its head-quarters on Catharine Street, is an independent association, of wiiich E. F. Tolman is foreman. The manual force of the department consists of a chief engineer and four assistants, forty-two members of steamer companies, thirty members of hook-and-ladder companies, fifty-eight members of hose companies, and four members of the extinguisher company. The fire-alarm telegraph was introduced here in the summer of 1871. There are now forty-eight signal-boxes at different points about the cit\', at any one of which an alarm may be given which at once automatically sounds the number of the box upon a large alarm bell on the Oxford Street school-house, and upon three of the church bells, and also on gongs at the office of the department, the engine-houses, the police office and other places. The chief engineer's office also communicates by telephone with several of the engine-houses, ena- bling a "still alarm" to be given at any time without disturbing the city. The "Insurance Fire Patrol," incorporated ilay 19, 187.5, have a wagon drawn by two swift horses, and their special mission is to protect personal property from damage by fire and water. They carry two Babcock Extinguish- ers, fort}- large india-rubber covers, and other appliances, and render most valuable service in case of fire. The patrol was organized by the insurance companies located or doing business here ; but at present one-fourth of the expense is borne by the city. Four men are constantly on duty, and four more respond to calls, while at night the whole force are at the wagon-house. All but one are ex-firemen, the captain, Hiram Williamson, having served seven years in the regular department. I CARE OF POOR. 649 Simou E. Combs is in his seventh year of service as chief engineer of the fire department, and "William Brophj', first assistant-engineer, is superintendent of the fire telegraph. The expenditnres on account of the department, in 1878, were $41,070.09 ; receipts, $1,1(;6.G7. The City Hospital was established by a city ordinance passed June 26, 1871. An appropriation of $10,000 was made, and the institution was opened to the public in the Bigelow mansion, on Front Street, in the following October. In the month of March, 1872, the late George Jaques * gave the city three acres of land on the south side of Prince Street, for a hospital site, stipulating that within three 5'ears the city should erect suitable buildmgs on the land, for at least twcnt3'-five patients ; and failing to do this, should pay Mr. Jaques or his legal represontalivcs, $200 a mouth for twenty-five years, or until the accommodations should be furnished. The deed was accepted, an appropria- tion of $25,000 %vas made and set apart as a hospital fund, and plans were obtained from prominent architects. The death of ^Ir. Jaques soon followed (Aug. 24, 1872), and it was found that he had supplemented his generous gift by willing nearly the whole of his property to the city, in trust, for the benefit of the hospital. A single relative, who threatened to contest the will, Avas bought out by the city. Although the deed, with its heavy penalty for delay, had been accepted, the city council now began to have doubts as to the fitness of the prescribed location, its northern exposure and the shade which in a measure kept off the sun, being objections which carried weight. The Supreme Judicial Court, being petitioned, refused to release the city from the obliga- tions of the deed. The hospital was removed to the Jaques homestead in January, 1874, and is now fitted to accommodate twenty-five patients. During the year ending Dec. 1, 1878, two hundred and ten patients were admitted to the hospital, of whom one hundred and thirty-seven were males, one hundred and thirteen were medical patients, and ninety-seven surgical. The daily aver- age number was fourteen. ]Most of those admitted are free patients ; but the whole or partial payment of board is required when circumstances admit. The average price paid during the last year was $7.37 per week. When patients having a legal settlement in other towns are received, the pay of $10 per week is required. The State aids in the support of those having no legal settlement in Massachusetts. The funds of the instituticm, and the large landed estate left by Mr. Jaques, are now in the hands of a commission con- sisting of three gentlemen, created by a city ordinance of 1877. The real estate was appraised in 1873 at $181,000. The Jaques fund (personal pro- perty) amounted, Nov. 30, 1878, to $32,143.16; Isaac Davis fund to • Mr. Jaques was born at Brooklyn, Conu., Feb. IS, 1816. He was son of AbicI Jaqnea (H. U., l^'OT), who was a civil engineer and niathomaticiau, and who camo to AVorccstcr in IS^ii, and bought a large part of the Chandler Farm, most of which his sou Georgo inherited. The son was graduated at Brown University in l^OO. taught school for several years in Virginia and here ; was especially interested in horticulture and in the schools, the hospital, public library aud Horticultural Society ana was a valuable member of the community duriug his lifetime. 650 CITY OF WORCESTER. $1,446.00; Albert Curtis fuud, $1,076.29; John B. Sliaw fund, $64.27. J. Bartlett Rich, M. D. is superintendent and resident physician. The medical staff includes three consulting' physicians and twelve visiting physicians, with Dr. L. S. Dixon as oculist and aurist, and Dr. Wm. H. Workman as pathol- ogist. The gordian knot of a location of a permanent hospital has not yet been cut. The poor-farm, now consisting of 304 acres, in the north-east part of the city and partly in Shrewsbury and Boylston, is in charge of the overseers of the poor, under the direct superintendence of B. F. Parkhurst. Here also is maintained a school for the reformation of habitual truants. The Jennison farm was purchased by the town in 1817, and the mansion at the west corner of Lincoln and Boylston streets, was occupied as a poor-house until 185."). The present poor-house, begun in 1854, was completed in 1855, at a cost of about $25,000. The land is valued at $20,500 and the buildings at $38,500. The police department includes a city marshal (or chief), two assistant mar- shals, a night captain, one roundsman, one detective and forty-six patrolmen. W. Ansel Washburn, the citj' marshal, is in his sixth term of office. Two truant officers are employed by the school committee. Six constables for civil business and nine for criminal business are appointed by the mayor. The lirst hospital for the insane, then called the State Lunatic Hospital, built by the State, was established at Worcester, and was opened Jan. 18, 1833, under the charge of Dr. Samuel B. Woodward. A tract of land was secured for the purpose, on the cast side of Summer Street, and later purchases took in another large tract in the rear for a garden, and the south portion of Chan- dler Hill for pasturage and mowing. Dr. Woodward was succeeded, July 1, 1846, by Dr. George Chandler, wlio continued to be superintendent for ten years, and was succeeded, July 16, 1856, by Dr. ]Merrick Bemis, who wa.s superintendent until July 25, 1872. Dr. Barnard D. Eastman was superin- tendent until March 1, 1879, and was succeeded by Dr. John G. Park. On the opening of a similar asylum at Northampton, the name of the institution here was changed to Worcester Lunatic Hospital. Others were afterwards established by the State at Taunton and Danvers, but still the institution hero becvrae uncomfortably full, and a large tract of land, about 300 acres, was pur- chased on the eastern slope of Millstone Hill, extending to the shores of Lake Quinsigamond, on which a vast asylum was built, which was completed and occupied in 1877. The Legislature of 1877 established an asylum for the chronic insane, and appropriated for its use the old buildings of the lunatic hospital on Summer Street, of which possession was taken Oct. 23, 1877. Dr. John G. Park was the first superintendent, receiving his appointment October 1st, and on his transfer to the new hospital he was succeeded by Dr. Hosea M. Qiiimby. A private retreat for the insane is maintained by Dr. Merrick Bemis, form- erly superintendent of the Worcester Lunatic Hospital, at "Herbert Hall" on BANKING INSTITUTIONS. 651 Salisbury Street, a pleasant situation about one mile northerly from the court- house. The "Home for Aged Females" was founded by the Hon. Icbabod Wash- burn, who, at his decease in 1868, bequeathed to it $25,000, and, upon the death of his widow, his homestead and $42,500 additional. In order to realize the design of Mr. Washburn more speedily, Mrs. Washburn lioiight the right of reversion in the homestead early in the year 1873, for $11,000. An estate on Orange Street was purchased and titted up, at a cost of $28,000, and by a spe- cial act of the Legislature, seven trustees were made a corporation, who, with their successors, have chai'geof the propert}-. These trustees annuallv choose twenty-four visitors, one-half at least women, who have the interior manage- ment of the home and the control of admissions. The invested funds amount to $12,000. Each inmate pays an entrance fee of $100, and thus secures a pleasant home for the rest of her life. An " Old Men's Home" was incorporated in 1876. It had no endowment at the start, but soon received from Mr. Albert Curtis the gift of a vahiable and pleasantly situated estate at New Worcester, which can be fitted and used when sufBcient funds arc in the directors' hands. The late Judge Chapiu left a useful bequest to the institution. The "Memorial Hospital" for which the late Hon. Ichabod Washburn left an endowment fund, has not yet been built. A free dispensary has been for some time maintained from the fund, in the " Bigelow Mansion " on Front Street. The terms of the will allow the trustees complete freedom, and, if it should be thought advisable to create a hospital for special instead of general uses, in view of the fact that a city hospital has Ijeen generously endowed from another source, the trustees will be at liberty to carry out such plans as expe- diency may dictate. The national banks of Worcester (with one exception) are the direct suc- cessors of State banks which existed when the national banking law passed Congress. It is proper to treat them as historically the same institutions. The oldest baidi in the city is the Worcester Bank, chartered March 7, 1804. Daniel Waldo was the first president, Levi Thaxter, cashier, and Robert B. Brisrham, accountant. The cashier and accountant were sent to Boston to be instnicted for four months in their duties. Daniel AValdo, Jr., succeeded his father as president Oct. 3, 1804, and held the office until his death July 9, 1845. He was succeeded by Stephen Salisbury, who continues to hold the oiBce and has been director for forty-seven years. For many years the loans were upon notes with one or more sureties payable in fifty-seven days and grace. When due, a payment of one-fourth the loan was required, and the remainder was renewed. Loans were also made on pledge of the bunk stock or on liond and mortgage running for one year, with interest payable at the end of the time. The practice of discounting business paper was not adopted, to any extent, until 18r.5. When the " Snllblk bank system" of redemption 652 CITY OF WORCESTER. of the bills of country baukswas established in 1820, it was earnestly opposed by the Worcester bank, and an attempt to coerce it was stoutly resisted. Afterwards, however, the system was generally adopted and proved very advantageous. The present capital of the bank is $500,000. Wm. Cross is vice-president, and James P. Hamilton cashier. The Central Bank was incorporated March 12, 1828. Capital, $300,000. John C. Mason is president, Henry A. ISIarsh cashier. Quinsigamond Bank, incorporated March 25, 1833. Capital, $250,000. Edward L. Davis is president, Alden A. Howe cashier. Citizens' Bank, incorporated Ajiril 9, 1836. Francis H. Kinuicutt is presi- dent, Lewis W. Hammond cashier. Capital, $150,000. Mechanics' Bank, incorporated April 21, 1848. President, Harrison Bliss; cashier, George E. Merrill. Capital, $350,000. City Bank, incorporated in March, 1854. Calviu Foster is president and Nathaniel Paine cashier. Capital, $400,000. The First National Bank was formed, under the United States banking law, June 5, 1863, and began business on the 3d of October, before any of the e.xisting banks in the city changed from State to national institutions. Edward A. Goodnow is president and A. H. Waite cashier. Capital, $300,000. The Worcester Safe Deposit and Trust Company received its first charter from the State as the Worcester Safe Deposit Company in March, 1868, and its second in May, 1869. It has a capital of $200,000. It is a bank of deposit but not of issue, and pays interest on the daily balances of customers at the annual rate of two per cent, per annum. The company leases small safes enclosed in burglar-proof cases to which the renter alone has access, thus offer- ing a place of security against fire or thieves, for bonds, notes and other arti- cles of value. George M. Kice is president and Edward F. Bisco secretary. The Worcester County Institution for Savings was incorporated Feb. 5, 1828. Hon. Daniel AValdo was president until July 9, 1845, Hon Stephen Salisbury until April, 1871, and Hon. Alexander H. Bullock has been presi- dent since the last-named date. The institution for more than half a century has had but two treasurers : Samuel Jennison to October, 1853, and Charles A. Hamilton (who had previously been cashier of the Quinsigamond Bank for the twenty years since its formation), for twenty-six years preceding his decease, Oct. 30, 1879. At the close of the first year's business there were one hundred and live depositors and a deposit of $6,263. In April, 1861, the deposits amounted to $2,742,833.50 and the number of depositors was 12,408. Present deposits $6,959,342.06. Charles A. Chase was elected treasurer Nov. 10, 1879. The Mechanics' Saving Bank was incorporated May 15, 1851. Harrison Bliss is president ; and Heur}^ Woodward has been treasurer since July 10, 1854. Amount of deposits, $2,803,761.74. The Five Cents Savings Bank was chartered April 7, 1854, and began busi- INSURANCE COMPANIES. 653 ness July 1, 1855. Clarendon Harris was treasurer until 1872, and has been its president for the past year. George W. Wheeler, city treasurer for twenty-two years, is treasurer of the bank. Deposits, $1,925,337.28. The People's Savings Bank was incorporated May 13, 1864. Charles M. Bent has been treasurer from the beginning. Hon. Lucius J. Knowles is president. Deposits, $3,044,790.97. The Worcester Mutual Fire Insurance Company, one of the oldest in the State, was incorporated Feb. 11, 1823. Its presidents have been : Eejoice Newton, 1824 to 1831, Frederick W. Paine to 1852, Anthony Chase to 1879, and Ebenezer Torrey ; secretaries, Henry K. Newcomb, 1824, Wm. D." Wheeler, 1824 to 1827, Isaac Goodwin to 1832, Anthony Chase to 1852, and Charles M. Miles. The company confines its business to risks of the first class, and returns at the expiration of policies a dividend of sixty per cent, on the premiums paid. The People's Mutual Fire Insurance Company was oi'ganized in 1847, and in 1865 was converted into a stock company. The great Boston fire, in 1873, compelled this company to wind up its business, paying its policy-holders a dividend of 73.6 per cent. Among the original oiEcers, E. H. Hemenway was president, and Oliver Harrington was secretary. Mr. Hemenway was suc- ceeded by Henry Chapin as president, and Samuel H. Coltou as treasurer. Mr. Harrington was succeeded by Augustus N. Currier as secretary. The Bay State Fire Insurance Company, organized Jan. 1, 1861, and having a capital of $200,000, and the Central Mutual Fire Insurance Company, organ- ized a few years later, were also compelled to suspend business on account of the Boston fire. Of the former, Wm. S. Davis was president, and U. C. Crosby, secretary. Of the latter, Wm. T. Merrifield was president, L. C. Parks, vice-president, H. K. Merrifield, secretary, and Albert Tolman, treasurer. The Merchants and Ftirmers' Mutual Insurance Company has conducted a successful business since 1846. Isaac Davis is president, Elijah B. Stoddard, secretary, and William Dickinson, treasurer. Its assets are $212,589, and its liabilities, $111,345. The First National Fire Insurance Company has a capital of $200,000, and assets of $293,977. Charles B. Pratt is president, R. James Tatman, secre- tary', and Hartley AVilliams, treasurer. Of the above-named insurance com- panies, the Worcester Mutual had no risks in Boston at the time of the fire ; the Merchants and Farmers', and First National, were enabled to continue their business, by making assessments ; the former on their premium notes, and the latter on the capital stock. The Manufacturers' Mutual Fire Insurance Company was chartered in 1834, and began the business of insuring manufacturing property. After a tem- poraiy suspension, it was re-organized, and in 1861 was merged with the Mechanics' Mutual Fire Insurance Company, under the name of the Worcester 654 CITY OF WORCESTER. Manufacturers' Mutual Fire Insurance Company. Hon. George M. Rice is president, and Samuel K. Barton, secretary. Assets, $177,241 ; liabilities, $68,757. The State Mutual Life Assurance Company was organized in 1845, under a perpetual charter from tlie State. For twenty years it carried a guarantee capital of $100,000; but since that time, the stock having been retired, the company has been purely mutual. The company has ever been managed upon conservative principles, and experience has proved the wisdom of such a course. The interest realized on its invested funds has paid all the death losses of the company from its organization. Policy-holders receive a generous divi- dend upon their annual premium, which gives them a safe insurance at a low rate. Not a dollar of its assets has ever been lost. Clarendon Harris has been secretary from the beginning. Isaac Davis is president, and William Dickinson, treasurer. Among the societies and clubs of Worcester, the Worcester Association for Mutual Aid in Detecting Thieves, organized Nov. 16, 1795, maintains its organization, although the service of the police and the aid of the telegraph, and now the telephone, have made the ofSce of "pursuing committee" a sinecure. The Worcester Board of Trade was incorporated in 1875. Joseph H. Walker is president, and Charles A. Chase secretary. The Board has main- tained pleasant rooms for social gatherings and business meetings ; and many addresses on topics of interest have been given by members and others. A lack of interest on the part of the meml)ers has led the executive council to give up the lease of the i"ooms for the {Dresent. The introduction of water b}' an aqueduct was followed, four years later, by the introduction of gas. The subject was first broached by Dr. Joseph Sargent, now president of the Worcester Gas-Light Company. The company was organized June 22, 1849, with a capital of $45,000. John W. Lincoln was the president, and Warren Lazell, agent. Land for the works was purchased on Lincoln Street, near Belmont, and gas was supplied to subscribers in the month of November following. The company was incorporated in 1851. The works were enlarged in 1854 and 1860 ; but in 1870 they were removed to a large tract of land on Brook Street, near the "Junction" station, where new buildings, admirably adapted to the purpose, were erected. Mr. Lazell was succeeded as agent in 1852 by James B. Blake, who held the position until his death, Dec. 18, 1870. Dr. Joseph Sargent is president, James H. Rollins is agent, and the capital of the company is $500,000. The Worcester Co-operative Saving Fund and Loan Association, incorporated Oct. 19, 1877, is a successful institution, patterned after similar ones which have proved most beneficial in Philadelphia and elsewhere. The president is D. S. Goddard. The Young Men's Christian Association, organized in June, 1864, wvas incorporated June 4, 1868. It maintains a free reading-room and does a large SECRET SOCIETIES. 655 amount of mission work. Its membership embraces representatives of the various evangelical religious societies in Worcester. The Worcester Chiklrou's Friend Society was organized in 1849. Mrs. Jouas M. Sliles, the first superintendent, had previously become deeply interested in the condition of youug orphans who were left dependent upon the world, and had taken several such into her own family. Enlisting the sym- pathy of other benevolent ladies, the society was formed after a few years of unorganized effort, and has continued its good work to the present time. A commodious house on Shrewsbury Street was given to the society by Col. John W. Lincoln, soon after its organization, and in 18G6 a pleasant home was purchased at the corner of Main and Benefit streets, the present "Orphan's Home." The members of the society are from all Protestant denominations, and some of the managers have been in the service from the beginning. It depends for support upon annual contributions and upon the income of a modest fund, made up from legacies and fees for life-membership. The matron. Miss Tamerson White, has had charge of the Home since its first establishment, and to her skill and experience, and her love for her work, are due much of its success and usefulness. The Masonic bodies include: Morning Star Lodge, chartered in 1793; Montacute Lodge (1859), Athelstan Lodge (1867), Quinsigamond Lodge (1871), Worcester Royal Arch Chapter (1823), Eureka Royal Arch Chapter (1870), Hiram Council R. and S. Masters (1826), Worcester County Com- mandery of Knights Templar (1824), Knights of the Order of Rome and the Red Cross of Constantinople (1872), St. John's Conclave (1874), Grand Lodge of Perfection (1863), Goddard Council P. of J. (1870), Lawrence Charter of Rose Croix (1870) ; also, the Grand Chapter and Stella Chapter No. 3, Order of the Eastern Star, and a Masonic Relief Association. Of the Odd Fellows there are, Quinsigamond Lodge, organized iu 1844 ; Worcester Lodge (1844 and 1870), Central Lodge (1874), Wachusett Encampment (1845 and 1869), Mt. Vernon Eucampment (1877), Worcester Union Degree Lodge (1873) ; also Naomi Lodge Daughters (jf Rcbekah (1872),'aud the Odd Fellows' Mutnal Relief Association (1871). Integrity Lodge of the Grand United Order of Odd Felhjws, and the Household of Ruth, are composed of colored citizens. There are two divisions of Sons of Temperance, — the Worcester (instituted in 1858) and the Washiugtonian (1865); of Good Templars, Rising Star Lodge (1863) and Charity Lodge (1864) ; Palestine Council of Select Tem- plars (1871); Worcester Temple of Honor (1870), Olive Branch Temple (1872), Mt. Vernon Social Temple (1878); also, the Praying Women's Temperance Union (1874), the Christian Temperance League (1874), the Worcester Reform Club (1876), and the Worcester Temperance Club. There are here a division of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, and a lodjje of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen ; a lodge of Knights of 656 CITY OF WORCESTER. Honor, and one of Knights and Ladies of Honor: to wit, the Pearl Lodge of the Degree of Protection ; two lodges of Knights of Pythias ; three councils of Sovereigns of Industry ; the Worcester Gi'ange of Patrons of Husbandry ; a Typographical Union; two courts, a camp and a Lady Sherwood Miriam degi'ee court of the Independent Order of Foresters; Worcester Council of Royal Arcanum. The diiierent foreign races represented in Worcester have their own charita- ble associations. Those of the Irish race are of coui'se most numerous, as that race includes about one-third of the present population of the cit3\ Of the Ancient Order of Hibernians there are four divisions, and one company of Hibernian Guards. The Irish Catholic Benevolent Society was organized in 1863. The Father Mathew Mutual Benefit Total Abstinence Society was organized Nov. 4, 1849, and incorporated March 17, 1863. The Worcester Catholic Temperance Association was organized in 1878. Other Irish societies are the Emmett Associates, Grattau Literary Society (1867), Montgomery Guards (1878) and Sarsfield Guards (1874). The last two are military organizations. The English have Prince Consort Lodge of the Sons of St. George, organ- ized in 1872 ; and their Scotch brethren have St. Andrew's Benevolent Society. The German organizations include the singing society. Frohsiuu, organized March 18, 1858 ; the Turuvercin (April 3, 1859) ; and Einigkeit Lodge of the Secret (benevolent) Order of Harugari (November, 1853). The French Canadians have their Societe St. Jean Baptiste, organized Jan. 1, 1868. CHAPTER XIV. FIRST MILLS WATER POWER RESERVOIRS CLOTH MANUFACTURE — IKON WORKINGS AMES PLOW COMPANY ICHABOD AVASHBURN THE AVASHBDRN AND MOEN COMPANY CHAIR MANUFACTURE CROMPTON LOOM WORKS — CROMPTON CARPET COMPANY — LUCIUS J. KNOWLES OSGOOD BRADLEY — THE GOES BROTHERS — ALBERT CURTIS — OTHER MANUFACTURERS. The committee of settlement, appointed by the General Court in 1665, awarded an acre of land "for the encoui-agement of building a corn and saw mill at any place on Mill Brook, not far from the old Indian fort." This site (just north of Lincoln Square) was taken up by Capt. John Wing, of Boston, who also became owner of a tract of 80 acres to the north and north-west, which afterwards became the property of Hon. Stephen Salisbury. George Danson, a baker of Boston, obtained a grant of 200 acres on the west side of the same stream, north of the fort, and extending to North Pond. I MILLS AND MANUFACTURES. 657 A mill-site at Quinsigamond village was granted to Nathaniel Jones, but he forfeited it by not building, although it subsequently came into his hands. Elijah Chase built on the spot the first corn-mill in the town, which was the only one for many years, Mr. Wing's being devoted to sawing lumber only. Works for making potash wore established in the north part of the town about the year 1760, and buildings for similar purposes were afterwards erected in various parts of the town. The hill over which Pleasant Street (the original county road leading westward) runs, was called Potash Hill down to a time within the memory of many now living. In 1780 an association was formed for the purpose of spinning and weaving cotton. The site of the factory was on Mill Brook, just north of School Street. The first piece of corduroy made there was taken from the loom in April, 1780. In Majs 1790, Samuel Brazer advertised for sale fustian, jean, corduroy, federal rib aud cotton, all made here. The enterprise was abandoned soon after, and the factory-building, moved to the west side of Main Street, south of Market Street, (once called Pig Lane), was long known as the Old Green Store. It gave way, a few years ago, to the present Parker block. The two mill-sites at Quinsigamond village, and a large tract of land in the neighborhood, became the property of John Chandler, the "honest refugee." Confiscated by the State, the jiroperty was sold to Isaiah Thomas, who, in 1794, erected a mill for the manufacture of paper. The business was afterwards carried on by Gardner Burbank, who, in 1834, was succeeded 1)y the Quinsig- amond Paper Company. The privilege was purchased in 1846 by Ichabod aud Charles Washburn, and has since been used by the Washburn aud Moen Manu- facturing Company and its predecessors in the same business, as a rolling-mill for the manufacture of coarse wire. The water-power of the towji has been trebled during the present century b}' the establishment of reservoirs ; but there is hardly a factory at the present time which does not employ steam as an auxiliary power, and probably 80 per cent, of the vast amount of manufactures annually produced, has the aid of steam power alone. Daniel Denny began the manufacture of cards for cotton and wool in 1808. William Stowell carried on the same business at about the same time. In October, 1804, Peter Stowell, and his brother Ebcnezer, began the weaving of carpets and plaids, and at one time had six looms of their own invention and manufacture in operation. Abel Stowell was celebrated as a maker of church and tower clocks at the close of the last century and the begiuuiug of this one. The town clock of the Old South Church, removed but a few years ago, was made by him in 1800, and several house clocks, bearing his name, are still in use and are treasured as heir-looms by the families in which they have been preserved. Obadiah Ward from Marlborough, one of the earliest settlers, built a saw- mill on the present site of the Crompton Loom Works on Green Street. The VOL. II.— S3 658 CITY OF WORCESTER. site was afterwards for many years occupied by the "Old Red Mills," which gave way to Mr. Crompton's works some twenty years ago. Samuel Andrews built a tannery on the south side of Lincoln Square early in the last century, and in 1749 erected a house (lately standing on Prospect Street) opposite the old court-house. His orphan daughter, Anna, married Col. Timothy Bigelow, who occupied the mansion, which was afterwards owned by Dr. Abraham Lincoln, Col. Bigelow's son-in-law. Capt. Palmer Goukling, a cordwainer, built a house on Front Street, between Salem Square and Trumbull Street, previous to 1731. He earl\- moved info the north precinct (Holden), but his son. Palmer Goulding. Jr., and grandson Daniel occupied the house, and carried on an extensive business in the way of tanning, making malt, curing hams, &c. Their-works were on the north side of Front Street, opposite the house, on a lot sliced out of the ministerial land. The Goulding house was converted into "The Elephant Hotel " in 1820 by Nathaniel Eaton, and was kept as such by different parties for about twenty-five years. It now stands on Tremont Street. The late John Goulding, a successful inventor of woolen machinery, was a nephew of Palmer Goulding, Jr. Probably no city in the country has so great a variety of manufoctures in proportion to its size as Worcester. Even before the introduction of railroads there was a goodly variety, and with the era of steam communication began a development of manufacturing intei'ests which has steadily increased to the present time. The machinery used in the large factories of various kinds, is in great part made here, and similar machiner}-, or that adapted to special indus- tries is made in shops, some employing hundreds of hands and others of lesser size. A peculiarity of the manufacturing system of Worcester is, that it is conducted in large degree by private capital, the large corporations being but few in number. There are several companies, however, organized under the general corporation laws of the State, in which the stock is wholly or in great part held by those who have an active jDart in the conduct of affiirs. But the city offers special fiicilities for mechanics with small means to prose- cute their lal)or, to run machines, or carry on processes of their own invention, or to ply the trades of which they are masters. For the accommodation of this class the large machine-shops erected and owned by Mr. William T. Merrifield on Union Street and its neighborhood, are admirably adapted. These buildings are on the site of others which were erected thirty 3'ears ago and were destroyed on the 14th of June, 1854, l)y the most disastrous fire that ever visited the city, Ihc loss being nearly half a million dollars. Here the mechanic can hire any desired amount of room, whether large or small, with the neces- sary steam-power. Similar privileges can be obtained at other establishments. In 1836 there were two mills here manufacturing broadcloths, six making satinets, one for cotton sheeting and shirting, two for satinet warps, one for pelisse wadding, two for paper, seven extensive establishments for building machinery, a wire factory, an iron foundry, — manufactories of sashes, doors IROX AND MACmXE WORKS. 659 and blinds; lead aqueduct-pipe; paper-hangings; cabinet furniture; chairs; brushes ; trunks and harnesses ; plows ; hats ; shoes ; watches ; umbrellas ; cutlery ; pianofortes : and many other articles of utility or ornament. The iron foundry established by William A. Wheeler on Thomas Street in 1825, is one of the oldest and most famous in the State. The first station- ary engine employed in the State, west of Boston, was erected here, In 1835 he began the manufacture of hot-air furnaces after a pattern which, with some few modifications, is still in use and is very popular. He also engaged in brass-founding, and his business came to include castings of almost every description. Mr. Wheeler was one of the i)rojectors of the Worcester and Nashua Railroad, which was built under his supervision ; first president of the Mechanics' Association, and a valuable and valued citizen. His foundry is now carried on by Messrs. Heald & Britton. The extensive works of the Washburn Iron Company on BloomingdaleRoad, are employed in rolling car-rails and in the manufacture of car-wheels. The business was founded by Nathan Washburn, now of Hartford, Conn. Mr. Washburn, who had obtained a patent for an improved car-wheel, came to the city in 1848 and engaged in the manufacture of these wheels with E. A. Con- verse, under the firm-namo of Converse & Washburn, the partnership continu- ing for six years. In 1850 he obtained another patent for the " Washburn Car Wheel," which is now in general use. Mr. Washburn has removed to Hartford, Conn., the Washburn Iron Company continuing the large business which grew up here from his early begiiniings. Edward L. Davis is treasurer of the company, and George W. Gill is manager. The building of paper machinery, as now represented by the Rice, Barton & Tales Machine and Iron Co., was started by Henry P. Howe and Isaac God- dard nearly 50 years ago. George M. Rice was admitted a partner in June, 1846. Mr. Howe died in 1847, and in 1848 George S. Barton and Amos Stevens were admitted, the style of the firm being Goddard, Rice & Co. Mr. Stevens' interest was afterwards acquired by E. A. Goddard, son of Isaac. lu 1862 the firm dissolved, and George M. Rice, George S. Barton and Joseph E. Fales formed a co-partnershii) as Rice, Barton & Co. In 1867 they obtained an act of incorporation as the Rice, Barton & Fales Machine and Iron Company, with a capital of $150,000. Since 1866 they have enlarged their works, and made their own iron and brass castings. Their machinery is largely represented in the paper-mills of Holyoke and vicinity, and generally throughout the United States. They have shipped machinery to Germany, France, Japan, Mexico and Canada ; and have also built a large portion of the calico printing and bleaching machinery in use in this country. The Arcade Malleable Iron Foundry, of which Warren McFarland is pro- prietor, has for many years been in successful operation at the junction of Grafton Street with the railroad. Other foundries are, those of the Junction Foundry Company, the Wheeler 660 CITY OF WORCESTER. Foundry Company, and C. & J. A. Colvin. Jason Cbapiu and L. H. Wells have brass foundries, and some of the large manufacturers of machinery have foundries of their own. On the site of the old forge of Col. Timothy Bigelow (south of Lincoln Square), Draper Ruggles, Joel Nourse and John C. Mason began, in 1836, the manufacture of plows. The rude and imperfect implement of that time was developed and improved by them to such degree as to make it almost per- fect. The buildings, owned liy Flon. Stephen Salisbury, were enlarged from time to time to meet the increase in their business, ■which, from a product of about one hundred plows during the first year, developed in twenty years to an annua! product of thirty thousand plows of one hundred and fifty different forms. The firm of Ruggles, Nourse & Mason was succeeded, April 1, 1856, by that of Kourse, Mason & Co., of which the members were Peter Harvey, Joel Nourse and Samuel Davis, with Messrs. Sampson & Tappan as silent partners. In 1860 the establishment passed into the hands of Oliver Ames & Sous of Easton, by whom it is still conducted under the name of the "Ames Plow Company." lu 1876 the business was removed to a largo and spacious factory erected by i\Ir. Salisbury on Prescott Street, and the old buildings were demolished to accommodate the new location of Union Street. They now make nearly a hundred varieties of cast-iron plows, and half as many with steel mould-boards, which are especially adapted to the rich soil of the West. The Richardson jNIanufacturing Company, in a large building next to that of the Ames Plow Company, turn out a large product of mowing-machines and other agricultural implements. Ichabod Washlnirn, born at Kingston Aug. 11, 1798, was of Puritan origin on his grandfather's side and of Huguenot stock on the side of his grandmother. His father, of the same name, a sea-captain, who intended to rear his son to the same profession, died when that son and his twin brother, Charles, were about two months old. At the age of nine years he was bound apprentice to a chaise and harness maker in Duxbury. In the spring of 1814 he was entered as apprentice with Jonathan and David Trask of Leicester. He remained with them, and with Nathan Muzzey of Auburn, until his twentieth birthday. In the winter of 1818-19 he engaged in the manufiicture of plows, in a small. way, at Millbury, receiving assistance, in the way of credit, from Daniel Waldo of Worcester. In 1820 he went into business with William II. Howard, manu- facturing woolen machinery and lead-pipe. Mr. Howard leaving, ho soou afterward took Benjamin Goddard as partner. The new firm made the first woolen-condenser and long-roll spinning-jack ever made in the count}'. Sell- ing out this business, they erected works at Northville for the manufacture of wire and wooden screws. In 1834 he continued the business of manu- facturing wire on his own account at the "Grove Mill," built for him by Hon. Stephen Salisbury. His brother Charles was partner with him from 1842 to 1849, and was subsequently part owner of the rolling-mill built at /^X£^^i^^z-'oration8, 89. Ballou, Rev. Adin, 64. Banks, 71, 89. Baptist Church and Ministers, 75. Bear Eill, 67. Board of Health, 82. Boots and Shoes, 69. Bragg, Col. Ariel, 84. Brick Church, 73. Broomshire, 65. Business Establishments, 96. Business in 1S37 ; in 1855; in 1875; 70. Catholic Cemetery, 68. " Church, 76. Cedar Swamp Pond, 66-7. Cemeteries, 87-8. Central Section, 66. Charles River, 66. Chapin, Rev. Dr. Stephen, 92. Churches, 71. Church of Christ, Congregational, 65, 71-3. Claliin, A., Country Seat, 67. " Hon. Lee, 74. Claflins, Several, 93-4. Co. A, Volunteer, 80. Conservatism, 71. Commons, 86. Co. M, Volunteer Militia, 81. Distinguished Men, 93-4. District Court, 88. Division in Parish, 72. Dramatic Exhibitions, 91. Easterly Section, 67. Edifices, Church, 72-3. Education, 81-2. Eminences, Highland, 67. Episcopal Church, 75 ; Rectors of, 76. Factories, 96. Farmers' Club, 90. Farms and Homesteads, 95. Farm for the Poor, 84. Faun.i and Flora, 68. Father Cuddihy, 77. Fire Companies and Engines, 85. Friends of Progress, 78. Frost, Rev. Amariah, 65, 71. G. A. R. Post 22, 81. Geology, 68. Granite Quarries, 68. Great Meadow, 67-8. Gneiss Rock, 68. Graduates, 83. Growth of Town slow till 1845, 68. Guards, The Mayhew, 81. Halls, 91. Heel-Factory, 96. History of the Town, 99. Hopedale, 67, 96-8. " Community, 78. " Parish, 77. " Village, 78. INDEX. 673 Hottls, 71. Hunt, Hon. Ezra, 92. Incoriioration, 65. Increase of Catholics, T7. luiTepeutlcut Christian Society, 73. ludnstrics, Various, 70-1. luilustrial Productions, 63. Infantry, Ordinary, 80. Lafayette Gu.ards, 80. Latitude and Longitude, 64. Leilol Turbine-wheel, 97. Library, Town, 83. Lodges, Masonic, 90. Long, Rev. David, 72. Magomiscook Hill, 07. Maps, 99. Maspenock Pond, 66. Medical Association, 90. Meetiug-Honsr, G5. Methodist Mecting-Houses, 74. Methodists, 74 ; Ministers of, 74-5. Milford, 64 ; part of Mendon, 64. " Cadets, 81. " Centre, 95. " Journal, 98. Military against the Rebellion, 81. " Record, 79. Mill River People, 65. Money Spent in the War, 81. Nelson, Hon. A. H., 93. " Rev. Levi, 92. Nipmucks, 64. Officers, Military, 80-1. " Town, 88. Opposition to Shays, 80. Orthodox Minister, 65. " Ministers, Names of, 72. Parties, Town and Parish, 72. Pine Grove Cemetery, 68. Police Court, 88. Poor, The, Cared for, 81. Population, Increase of, 69. " in 1780, 65 ; plucky, 65. Post-Offlccs, 88. Precinct in 1741, C5. Press, The, 98. Printiug-Offices, 98. Private Schools and Academy, 83. Professional Men, 71. Kailioad, 69; Branch, 70. Railroads, 89. Rattlesnakes, 68. Rawsou, Edward, 65. Religious History, 71. Rich-toned bell, 76. Roads and Streets, 65-6. Rocky Woods, 67. Roman Catholics, 67. Romantic Scenery, 66. Sawyer Spindle, The, 97. Scammell, Dr., 65. « Gen. Alexander, 79-80. Schools, 82-3. School Committees, 83. School-houses, 82. Screws, Clinching, 96. Sectaries multiplied, 72. Settlement, Time of, 64-5. Situation of the Town, 64. Societies, many, 90. Spinning-rings, 93. Spiritualists, 78. St. Mary's Church, 78. Stone semi-cathedral, 76-7. Steeler, Rev. Adam, 73. Surveys of the Town, 99. Tanning, 69. Temple Company, 97. Thayer, Hon. .Jonathan, 92. Topography, 66. Train band, 80. Trinity Parish, 75. Underwood, Gen. A. B., 81, 94. Universalist Society, 73 ; Preachers, 73-4. Valuation, 69, 89. Volunteer Militia, 80. War of 1755-9, 79 ; of the Revolut ion, 79-80. Westerly Section, 66. Wild Beasts and Birds, 68. TOWN OF MILT.BUUY. Academy, 113-14. Armory and Goodell Villages, 101. Armory Building, 100. Arms-^Muskcts, Rilles, Pistols, 110. Atlanta Mills, 109. vol.. n.—S5 Hank and Post-Omcc, 101. Banks, 11,5-16. Baptist Church and Ministers, 105. Blackstono Cau.-il, 102. Blackstouo River, 100. 674 INDEX. Blanchard, Thomas, 1V2. Books, School, Hyniu and Tuue, 107. Boots and Shoes, 110. Boundaries, 100. Bramanville, 101. Broadcloths, 106. Burbauk, Gen. Caleb, 107. Burling Jlills— Beavercloth, 108. Cam Motion, 112. Cambridge Platform, 103. Catholic Church, Pastors of, 105. Centre of Millbury, 101. Chai)lin, Rev. Ebenezer, 103. Church Edifices, 101. Congregational Church in West Millbury, formed and disbanded, 1U5. Congregational Church, Second, Pastors of, 104. Congregational Society, First, 101. " " " in West Millbury, 101. Cordis Mills, 106, 109. Cotton Mills, 109. Crane & Waters, lOG. Diplomas, High School, 114. Dr. Watts' Hymns, 103. Edge-tool Factory, 109. Era of Growth, 102. EweU, Eev. J. L., 104. First Church in Millbury, New, 103 ; Pastors of, 104. Gough, John B.'s First Lecture, 115. Gow, Eev. G. B., 105. Grass Hill, 101. Guns Wrought by Hand, 110 ; by Water- power, 111. Hand-filing, 113. High School, 114. Holbrook, Eev. I., 11.5. Holmau, Eev. Sidney, 105. Hosiery Mill, 108. Houses of Worship, 103-4. Incorporation, 101-2. Industries, various, 109. Irregular Forms turued, 112. Inventions, Important, 103. Library, Free Public, 114. Linseed-oil Factory, 108. Location, 100. Lodges, Masonic, 114. Lyceum, The First, 115. Machine Shop, lOS. Meeting-house removed to Bramanville, 104. ilethodist Church, 104 ; Pastors of, 104-5. Millbury, 100. " against the Rebellion, 116-17. " Guards, 115. Milling Machine, 113. Mill, The First, 106. Mines of Salisbury, 110. Mount Zion, 103. Natural Scenery, 100. Old Common, 101, 103. Paper Mill, First, 107. Pioneers of Temperance, 115. Ponds, 100. Post-OfSce and Postmasters, 116. Powder Mill, 116. Print Goods, 103. Private Armories, 111. Products of Mills, Total jVnnual, 110. Putnam, Rev. George A., 104. Railroad Company, Providence and Worces- ter, 102. Eailroad Stations, 101. Eepresentatives, 117. Sash and Blind Works, 108. Satinet Mill, 109. Scythe Shop, 107, 111. Schools, 113-114 ; Money for, 114. Scott, Gen. Wiufield, ll.'S. Second Church in Sutton, 103. Senators, 117. Singlotary Village, 101. Soldiers killed, 117. Statistics, 117. Stockwcll, George A., 100. Stores and Factories, 101. Talcott, Gen. George, 113. Ticking, 109. Town Hall, 114. " Meeting, First, 102. " Officers, First, 102. Waters, Asa and Audrus, 110. " Asa, 2d, 110-13. " Col. Asa H.. 111. 113. 117. " Dea. Elijah, 111. " Henry, 111. " Horace, 106. " Samuel, 106. Water-sujiply, 100.' Wcllmau, Rev. James, 103. West Millbury, 101. Wheeler Cotton-mills, 106. Woolea Factory, 107 ; Cloth, 109. INDEX. 675 TOWN OF NEW BKAINTREE. Agriculture, 125. jVrticles of Confedeialiou, 1-23. Baptism of Childreu, 121. Boston thanked, 1'32. Boundaries and shape, 118. Bounds established, 125. Bounties in 1777, 123 ; m 1861-5, 125-G. Bowman, Hon. Josejjh, 127. Cheese Company, 125. Church and State, 124. " First gathered, 121. " Ecorganized, 121. Colonels, 127. Committee of Reference, 124. Congregatioual Parish, 125. Creed and Covenant, 121. Deacons, Names of, 121. Delano, PhUip, 119. Delegates to Congresses, 123. Education, 119. Embargo opposed, 125. Fees of Court, high, 123. Fever, Spotted, 125. First Fire, 124. Fiske, Eev. Dr. John, 119-20, 127. Foster, Eev. Daniel, 120. Friends of Capt. Shays, 124. Graduate of Colleges, 119. Grammar School, 121. Great Bridge, 124. Harmonious Community, 119. Inc'orporation, 118. Indian outwitted, 119. " Settlement, 118. Insurgents swearing allegiance, 124. Jealous of Eulers, 124. Lawsuits discouraged, 124. Lawyers, extortion of, 123. Lincoln, Gen., 124. Meeting-house, First, New ; remodelled, 120. Men and Horses, Quota of, in 1778, 123. Milk, pounds of, 125. Minister, Care in choosing, 120. Ministers, Names of, 121. Minute-men in 1775, 126. Mixter, Hon. Samuel, 127. Monument, stone, 118. New Braintree, 118. Parade Ground, 125. Plouro-pneumonia, 125. Politics, 119. Population, 118. Poor, State, Support of, 124. " Town, " 125. Prominent Local Officers, 126. Powder and Lead, Stock of, 123. Eebellion, Tlie, action against, 125. Eegulators, The, in 1787, 124. Eeprcscutatives, 126. Eesolutious in 1774, 122. Eevolution, The, Spirit of the People, 122. Euggles, Eev. Benjamin, 120. Sabbath School, First, in 1817, 125. Salary of Ministers, 120. Saltpetre, 125. Schools, 121-2 ; School-houses, 121. Square Miles, 118. Stoves in Meeting-house, 125. Supervision of Schools, 122. Surface, 118. Temperance House, 125. Town Clerks, List of, 127. Tufts, George K., 118. Twelve Jlen slain, 119. Valuation, 118. Volunteers in 1861-5, 126. Wages of soldiers, 126-7. Warner, Capt. Elcazar, 110. War of 1812-15, 125. Winnimissot, 118. TOWN OF NORTHBOROUGH. Acreage, 128. Allen, Joseph, D. D., 128, 133. Auti-Slavory, 135. A])propriation for Schools, 132. Ashley, Eev. S. S., 135. Assabet Eiver, 128. Assembly's Catechism a Creed, 130. Bond, Eev. 11. F., 131. Boundaries, 128. 676 INDEX. Biigham, Jolin, 120. Brooks ancl Eiv'er, 128. Burgoyne's Army, 129. Church, Baptist, organized, 131 ; pastors and meetiug-house, 131. " First, organized, 130. Clothiers' Business, 136. Comb Business, 138. Concord and Bimker Hill, 134. Conneticoat Road, Old and New, 129. Corset-stitching, 138. Cotton cloth, 138. Davis, Isaac, 137. " Hon. Isaac, 139. " " John, 139. Button, Eev. Horace, 128. Early Settlers, Names of, 129. Eminent Men, 139. Evangelical Congregational Society, 131; Pas- tors and Meeting-houses of, 131. Free-Soil Party, Origin of, 135. Fulling-mill, 1.36. Gale, Hon. Cyrus, 139. Garrison and Tavern, 129. Goodenow, Thomas, 132. Great Road, 129. Healthy and pleas.ant, 128. Hides, 137. High School, 132. Hildreth, Hon. Milo, 138. Hills, 128. Hydraulics, wonderful, 137. Incorporation, 129. Indians disguised, 134. Iron Ore and Works, 136. Jewelry, Tortoise-shell, 138. Ladies, patriotiCj in 1861-5, 135. Libraries, 133. Location of Town, 128. Lyceum, 132. Manufacturing Company, 137. Martyn, Rev. John, 130. Meeting-house, 129-31. MUk-train, 138. Mills and Shops, 137. Mill-work, 136. Ministers of First Church, 130. Minute-men, 134. Monument, Soldiers', 136. Northborough, 128. Oldest Settlers, 129-39. Parsonage, Orthodox, 132. Ponds, 128. Post of G. A. R., 136. Potash, 136. Primeval Lake, 128. Salary of First Minister, 130. " Schoolmaster, 132. Satinets, 138. Schools, 132 ; First School-house, 132. Seminary Association, 132. Shoe and Boot Business, 137. Squadrons, 132. Tanning and Currying, 137. Tea, Bags of, burnt in 1773, 134. Teachers, 132. TiUson, Rev. J., 131. Tories, 134-5. War of the Rebellion, 135. War, Revolutionary, 134. War, Old French, 134. Whitney, Eev. Peter, 136. Woman Casting Bullets, 134. Wool-carding by Slachinery, 137. TOWN OF NORTHBRIDGE. Air, salubrious, 140. Barefooted, 145. Batcheller, Maj. David, 142-3. Blackstone River, 140, 144. Bliss, Eev. Aaron, 141. Boot and Shoe Business, 145-6. Boundaries, 140. Bounties, 154. Brick-mill, 144. Business, Rise of, 144. Carey, Eev. Seth C, 151. Church, Catholic, 151. Church in WhitinsviUe, 150. Church, First, organized in 1782, 141, 149; ministers of, 150. Clark, Dr. R. R., 153. " Eev. L. F., 141-2, 146, 149. Cloth Company, 144. Continental Congress, 141. Coopering, 141. Cost of the late War, 154. Cotton Goods, 144; Spinning, 144. " Manufactures, 147. INDEX. 677 Cotton used, 155. Crane, Rev. Jolin, 142 ; Character of, 14'J Deacons, Names of, 151. Dwellings, neat, elegant, 148. Education, 151. Emmons, Eer. Dr., 142. Farming, 144. Fertility of Soil, 140. Firm of Whitins dissolved, 148. Fktcber, Ezra W., 156. " Miss Sarah, 156. " Miss, Wife Col. Whitiu, 147. Foreign-born Element, 151. Foundry in 1790, 144. Four-room School-house, 153. Geological Formation, 141. Grain and Saw Mills, 144. Granite, 141. Haunters of Taverns unknown, 144. High School, 153. Holbrook, Sylvanus, 144. Incorporation, 140-1. Intervale, 140. Iron-ore, 141. Iron-works, 144. King George, discarded, 143. Library, Social, Free, 156. Linwood, 149. Liusced-oil Mill, 144. Location and Extent of Town, 140. Lyceum, Lecture Course, 156. Machine-shops, large, 148, 155. Mechanics, 144. Meeting-house, First, 149; new, 151. " Friends', 143. Methodist Meetings, 151. " Church organized, 151. " Parsonage, 151. Meetings in Uxbridge, 141. Memorial Hall, 156. Men in the Army, 143. Mill at Linwood, 155. Mill Rockdale, 155. " Wbitinsvillc, 155. Mumford Rivor, 140, 155. National Bank, 155. "Ni^'j;cr" Shoes, 145. Northbridgo, 140. Patriotic Spirit in 1774, 142-3. Pine-Grove Cemetery, 150. Preaching, 141. Presbyterian Chiirch, 151. Popul.ation. 148. Public Buildings, 149. Qu.tkers, Families of, 143. Rebellion, suppressing the, 1.53. Religious Wants, 141. Reservoirs, 141. Eiverdale, 149. Road to Prosperity, 147. Rockdale, 144, 149. School Committee, 153. Schools and School-houses, 151-3. Soldiers in the Revolution, 143. Spring, Col. John, 141. Springs and Streams, 140. Statu Aid, 154. Support of the Gospel, 141. Surface, 140. Tanners and Curriers, 145. Talt. Israel, 143. Thurston, Rev. John R., 1.50. Thompson, Rev. J. L., 151. Town Meeting in 1776, 141. Volunteers, 154. Whitiu, Col. Paul, 144, 146-7 ; his sons, 147 149. " Charles P., 148. " James, 148. " John C, Inventor, 147, 155. " Paul, Jr., 147. Whitinsville, 140, 14.5-6, 148. Whitney, Rev. Peter, 141-3. Woolen Goods, 144. Abstinence, total, 166. Backus, Rev. Dr., 166. Baptizing Children, 166. Boarding round, 167. Boots and Shoe."!, 164. TOWN OF OAKIIAIM. Boundaries, 157. Buildings, public, 156. Church, Congregational, 165; I>fiicons of, 1G7. " Methodist, 1(;7. " Presbyterian, 105. 678 INDEX. Cold Brook, 157. Committee of Correspoudeuce, 162. Congress, Contineutal, IGO. Constitution, State, discussed, 163. Crawford, William, 1G4. Deacons, First, 165. Decent School-Houses, 167. Delegates to Provincial Congress, 160-1. Ecclesiastical History, 165-6. Education, 167. Fairbank, Major John B., 151. Farm Products, 164. Fixing Prices, 163. Flints, Powder and Lead, 161. Fobes, Dr. Seth, 164. Force of Public Opinion, 161. Foreign-born, 164. Forests, 157. Glory and Pride of the Town, 168. Halliday, Rev. J. C, 167. Hall, Memorial, 165. Hisou, IJev. Asa, 166. House-Building, 158. Houses, Number of, 164. Incorporation, 159. Independence, 161-2. In His Majesty's Name no longer, 162. Inspection of Schools, 167. Kimball, Kev. James, 167. Laws of Finance, fixed, 163. Liberally educated Sous, 167. Liquor, Wino and Lemons, 166. Location of Town, l."i7. Meeting-House, 159, 166. Memorial for Peace, 164. Mineral Spriugs, 157. Minister, First, Salary of, 165. Ministers, several, called, 166. Minute-Men, 161. Money raised in the Revolution, 162. Morton, Rev. Alpha, 167. Naquag, Indian Name, 157. Natick Indians, 157. Oakham in the civil War, 164. " Pride and Glory of, 168. OiBcers, Town, chosen, 159. One Sabbath's Preaching for £120, 163. Paper stamped, 161. Peloubet, Kev. F. N., 167. PoiJulation, 1G4. Precinct, Petition for, 153. " Meeting, First, 159. Presbyterians, 158. Purchasers, Names of, 157. Revolution, The, 159-163. Sabbath School, 167. Schools, 167-8. School, select, 167. Scotch-Irish, 158. Scotchman's Remark, 165. Settlers, First, Names of, 158. Soil, fertile, 157. Soldiers in the Revolution, 162. Strickland, Rov. John, 165. Surface uneven, 157. Titles to Land, Origin of, 157. Tomlinson, Rev. Daniel, 164, 166. Tories under the ban, 162. Town as a Parish, 165. " Meeting, First, 159. Valuation, 164. Value of Products in 1875, 164. War of tho Revolution, 163. " of 1812, 163-4. " of the Rebellion, 164. Warrants, Articles of, 159. West Wing, 159. TOWN OF OXFORD. Acreage, 188. Adams' Army, 179. Agriculture, 181. Allen, Daniel, 171. Ayer, Oliver, 179. Ballon, Rev. Hosea, 179. Bank, 187. Baptist Society, 179 ; Pastors of, 179. Barton, Hon. Ira M., 181. Beef for the Army in 1778, 177. Bernon, Gabriel, 170, 173. BUI of Rights, 177. Black, James, 169. Boudet, Daniel, 171. Boundaries, 180. Bounty to Soldiers in 1777, 177. Brooks, Rev. Dr., 179. Buiinmsville, 1S2. Butler's Tavern and Bar-room, 178. INDEX. 679 Campbell, Eev. John, 174, 187. Church Edifice, 179. Church Formed, 174. Colony rrosperons iu 1693, 171. Congregational Society, 178 ; Pastors of, 178. Constitutional Conventions, Members of, 186. Continental Congress, 175. Crown Point, Soldiers at, 176. Daniels, George F., 1G9. D.ivid, Capt. Edward, 17.5. " " Samuel, 17,"j. " George L., 181. Deed of Division, 170. Do Witt, Hon. jUexander. 188. Directors of the Bank, 181. Division of Lands, 173. Doeskin and Broadcloth, 183. Dudley, Joseph, 1C9. Edict of Nantes, 170. Eliot and Gookin, 1G9. Emmons, Eev. Amri E., 178. English Settlement, 171. Episcopal Church, 179. Epitaph on Eev. John Campbell, 187. First Survey, 170. Fort William and Henry, Soldiers for its Eelief, 175. French and Indian War, 175. French Eiver, ISO. George HI., 176. Glove-leather, 171. Grant by Proprietors. 172. the General Court, 169-70. Hills, 180. Hodges, Sir. George, 179. Hodges, Tillage, 183. House of Worship, 178. Huguenot Burying-yard, Meeting-Houeo, Mill and Fort, 171, Huguenots, 170. Independence declared, 176-7, Indians, hostile, in 1C94, 171, Indian Settlement, 169. Industries, various, 162. Isaac Bertrand Du TuiTean, 171. James, Eev. John, 173. Johnson, John, murdered by Indians, 171 ; his children, his wife, escaped, 171. King Philip, 170. Lamb's Privilege, 185, Learned, Col, and Gen,, 183, Library, Public, 181, Location of Oxford, 180. Manchang, 169, Massacre in 1696, 171, Memorial Hall, 181, Meeting-House, 173 ; New, 174. Men of Note, 187-8, Methodist Church, 179; Meeting-nonse and Parsonage, 179, Methodist Ministers, 179, Jlilitia reorganized, 176. iim Sites, 182, Ministerial People, 174, Slinisters, Names of, 174, N.imea of Soldiers, 186, New Oxford, 170. New Praying Towns, 169. Nipmuck Country, 169. North Oxford, 183, Phconix "Village, 184. Physical Outlines, 180, Population, 188, Proclamation of the Proprietors, 172. Protection Mni, 184. Provincial Congress, Delegates to, 176. Eepresentatives, 186. Eovolntion, Soldiers in, 177. Eice, Col. Nathan, 178. Eockdale, 184. Eogers, Eichard, 185. Eum sold, 178. Enins of Huguenot Fort, 171. Satinet Mill, 184. Schools, 181-2. School-house, 175. " Master, 175, Scythes, Axes and Hoes, 182. Senators, 186. Settlements delayed, 170. " by English, 173. Ship-stores, 171. Shoemaking, 181. Sigonrney, Andrerw, 178. Square Miles. 170. State Aid and Bonntiee, 186. Statistics, 168. StockweU, George A., 169. Stone, Sliss M. E., 183. Stoughton, William, 169. St. Eoch's Catholic Church, 179. Support of the Gospel by the Town, 174. 680 INDEX. Textile Fabrics, 181. Thompson, Robert, 170. Thread Busiuess, 182-3. Towu Meetmg, First, 173. " Officers chosen, 173. Uuiversalist Society, 178; Pastors of, 179. United States Convention of Spiritualists, l/d. Valuation, 188. Wilder, Charles W., 179. TOWN OF PAXTON. Agriculture, 195. Agreement of the Minute-men, 192. Anniversary, Centennial, 198. Asneburaskit Hill and Lake, 195. Area, 190. Barrel of Gunpowder, 192. Beef for the Army, 194. BigeloTf, Rev. Dr. John F., 198. Biglow, Eev. SUas, 197. Bill, Ledyard, 197. Boots and Shoes, 196. Bounded, 189. Bounties for Soldiers in 1781, 194. " " " " 1861-5, 197-8. Cards, Manufacture of, 196. Centre of the County, 189. Centre, The, of the Town, 195. Church organized, 190 ; Pastors, 197. Clothing for Soldiers, 193. Cole, Rev. Otis, 197. Committee on Public Affairs, 192. Deed of Burying-ground, 194. District : its Powers, 192. " on Public Affairs, 192. Equipi)ing Minute-men, 193. Fasting and Prayer in 1774, 192. Fife and Drum, 193. First Towu Meeting, 191. " " Towu Officers, 191. Founders of the Town, 189. Gospel Ministers, 196. Granite Shaft, Soldiers', 198. Grants for a Church, 191. Hancock for Governor, 194. Hill, Forests and Intervale, 195. Hills, rugged and wooded, 189. Howe, Dr. A. J., 198. Incorporation, 189-90. ludian Corn : Price j)er Bushel, 194. Lakes and Ponds, 195. Laud Surface, 195. Library, Public, 197. Livormore, George W., 198. " John and Sons, 193. " Mrs., 193. Location, 189. Meeting-house, 196. Minute Companj', 192. " Men, Names of, 192. Money for Soldiers in 1779, 194. Monument, Soldiers', 195. Moore, Capt. WUlard, 193. Negro Seat, 196. Old People's Seats, 196. Paxton, Charles, 190 ; Effigy of, 190. Paston in the Revolution, 194-5. Phipps, Rev. William, 197. Place-hunter, 191. Precinct Privileges, 190-1. Representatives, 198. Schools, 197. School, Grammar, 197. Springs and Rivulets, 198. Standing Company, 193. Statistics, 198. Stockwell, George A., 189. Tax on Glass, &c., 191. Thayer, Rev. Alexander, 194, 197. Town Four Miles Square, 190. Valuation, 198. War of the Revolution, 197. War, The Rebels', 197. TOWN OF PETERSHAM. Adonai Shomo, 209. Attacked by the Indians, 201. Baptist Church, First, 203 ; Present, 208 ; Pas- tors of, 208. INDEX. 681 Barrels of Cider : a Load, 202. Beef for the Ai-my in 1780, 204. Boundaiies, 214. Bounties to Soldiers in 1776-7, 203. Brooks, Francis A., 214. Cemeteries, 213. Cliureh, Congregational, 202 ; List of Minis- ters, 207. Church, Ortliodos, Ministers of, 208. Clark, Eov. L., 208. Clothing for Soldiers in 1778, 204. Committee of Inspection, 203. " on Public Worship, 203. Democratic Shrewdness, 204. Dennis, Eev. Samuel, 20-:'. Doollttlo, Col. Ephraim, 202-3. Families settled in 1750, 200 Farms, 2)0. Federal Trick, 204. Fire, The Great, 213. Flagg, Elisha, 203. Foster, Eev. Festus, 207. Fuller, L. C, 209. Gates, Samuel, 203. Gleason, Joseph, 203. Gore, Peter, 207. Graduates of Colleges, 211-12. Grout, Col., 203. Growth of Kichewaug, 202. Guns indispensable, 201. Hapgood, Seth, 210. Hastings, Daniel, 203. Heroes of the Town, 202. His Majesty discarded, 208. How, George W., 198. Houghton, Col. Jonas, 202. " Madame, 200. Howland, Frederick T., 209. Incorporation, 201. Independence declared, 203. Indians, Fear of, 201. Indians : Land paid for, 200. Keith, Eev. Epbraim, 207. Lands granted by the General Court, 200. Lee, Mother Ann, 209. Librari( Worship, 240. Moore's Tavern, 237. Mountain IJcgion, 241. Murdock, Eev. Dr. James, 238. Naq^uag, Indian name, 232. Nipmncks, The, 232. Nashaways, The, 229. Plaisted, Thomas, Grant to, 234. Population, 241. Potash Farm granted to Gen. Rngglcs, 234. Potful of Wine to Indians, 230. Preaching, First, at Moore's Tavern, 237. Presbytcriaus, their Ministers, 230. Prince, Rev. Thomas, 233 ; Grant to, 234. Princctim iucoriiorated, 238. Products of the Farms, 241. Queen of Pocasset, 231. Quinnapin, Sagamore, 231-2. Redemption Rock, 232. Roads in 17G0, 237. Rowlandson, Mrs., 230-2. Russell, Hon. C. T., 228. Rutland, East Wing, 234. Settlement rapid in 1750-59, 236. Situation, 223. Slave, One, in 1771, 238. Spirit in the Revolution, 242. Squaw Sachem, 231. Sunset Rock, 237. Sympathies, religious and political, 242. Thankful homage to God, 242. Town as a Parish, 238. " The, calls a Minister, 239. Turkey Hill, 233. Union of Church and Society, 239. " of Religious Sentiment, 2.3-f. Unitarian Views, 238. Valuation, 241. Wachusett granted to Rev. Timothy Fuller, 23{i. W.achusett Mountain, 228 ; Headquarters of Indians, 231. War of the Rebellion, Men and Money to sup- liress it, 242. Watertown and Weston Grant, 233-4. Whitney Hill, 234. Wilder, Joshua, Jr., House for Travellers, 2;!o. Willard, M.ij. Simon, his Heirs, 2.32. Wing, The, 23G. Winthrop. Gov. John, 228. Woods, Rev. Dr. Leonard, 239. TOWN OF ROYALSTON. Acreage, 244. Adams, Dr. Frank W., 254. Dr. Henry O., 254. Agriculture, 354. Animals, wild, 24(i. Batcheller, Dr. Stephen, 254. " Dr. Stephen, Jr., 2.54. Benoni Moore, Grant to, 213. Beryl and other Minerals, 245. Boundaries, 244. Bounties for Soldiers in 1778-81, 24G. Bryant, Rev. Albert, 255. Bullard, Rev. Ebenezcr, 247. Bullock Fund, 249. Bullock, Hon. A. II., 245. 255, 257. " Hon. Rufus. 248, 25U. " Miss Candace, 248. Bunch of Grapes Tavern, 244. Church, Baptist, Ministers of, 248. " Congregational, Membership, 247. " Second Congregational, 24i ; Minis- ters and Fund. 248. City, The, 248. Cliirk, Daniel P., 255. Cushman, Rev. John P., 247. Early Settlers Men of Character, 243. Education, 248-49. Enlisted Men, 1861-5, 251. Estabrook, Joseph, Esq., 254. Farrar, Solomon S., 255. Feldspar, 245. French and Indian War, 244. Geological Structure, 245. Gorges and Waterfalls, 245. Governors, 255. Graduates, 249-50. Grants, Four, 243. Gregory, Gen. Franklin. 254. Grenadiers sent to Boston iu 1814. 247 Half-Century Sermon i f Mr. Lee, 217 Hapgood's Grant, 243. Hazcn, Rev. Norman, 247. Hodge, Elder, 248. 684 INDEX. lucorporation, 244. luecriptions, 252-3. I^ee, Eev. Joseph, 247. Lots for Ministers and Scliools, 244. Mechanics' Hall, 255. Meetiiig-House, 247 ; Now, 247. Memorial Tablets, 251. Methodists, 248. Old Parsonage, 247. " School Fund, 249. Peckham, Eev. Samuel H., 248. Perkins, Rev. Ebenezer, 247. Picrpont's Grant, 243. Population, 254. Priest's Grant, 243. Purchasers, Distinguished, 243-4. Railroad Station, 255. Raymond, .Joseph, 251. Religions Harmony, 247. Representatives, 253. Republican Cascade, 245. Ripley, Mrs., 257. Rivers and Brooks, 244. Royal Cascade, 245. Royal, Hon. Isaac, 244. Eoyalshire, 244. Royalston, Origin of, 243. Scenery, Beautiful, 244-5. Schools and School-Houses, 249. Situation of the Town, 243. Soldiers, Bounties for, 251. " in the Revolution, Names of, 246. South Royalston, 255. Spirit in the Revolution, 246. Statistics, 254. Town Hall, 255. Town Meeting, First, 244. Town Officers, 257. Union Society, 248. War of the Rebellion, 251. Whitney, Col. George, 256. Willis, Dr. Isaac P., 254. Woolen Cloth Made, 256. Wolves, WUd-cats and Panthers, 246. Wood, Rev. Pliny, 244. TOWN OF EUTLAND. Adventists, The, 265. Agricultural Town, 267. Alarm Men of 1775, list of, 266. Beef, Pork, MnLton, &c., 207. Bigelow, .1. Warren, 258. Boundaries of Purchase, 258. " of the Town, 259, 261. Broad Street for Common, 259. Brooks, 261. Buckminster, Eev. Joseph, 264. Campbell, Daniel, murdered, 268. Centre of the Town, High, 262. Church Building, twice burned, 204. " Congregational, jjastors of, 264. Clark, Rev. Joseph, 264. County Officers, 208. Dodge, Rev. George E., 264. Encampment of Burgoyne's Army, 200. Engagement, Solemn, 265. Fish, Variety of, in ponds, 262. Fitzpatrick, Edward, 208. Foster, Rev. Luke B., 264. Friuk, Eev. Thomas,.g64. Goodrich, Eev. Hezekiah, 264. Gospel Privileges, 263. Grantees of six miles square, 259. Hardships in the Eevolution, 260. Healthful Climate, 202. Height of Land, 201. Hills, Valleys, Plains, 201-2. House Lot, 202. Incorporation, 260. Indian Deed of Land, 258. " Fight, 260. Indians dangerous, 262. Land, good grazing, 261. Latin Grammar School, 202. Library, Public, 207. Location of Rutland central, 201. Lords of the Soil, 258. Mechanics and their Works, 267. Meeting-House, 259, 263. Methodists, 265. Millbrook, Its Source, 261. Mineral Springs, 261. Minute-Men, Roll of, 265-7. Moore, Maj. Willard, fell at Bunker HUl, 266. Mortal Sickness in 1749 and 1756, 265. Murray, Col. John, 265 ; farms confiscated, 267. Naquag, 258. Officers, First chosen, 260. Original Settlers, 259. INDEX. 685 Ponds and Streams, 261. ropulation, 263. Presbyterian Element, 264. Purchasers of Land, 2o8. Putnam, Geu. Rufus, 267-8. Quota raised in the Eevohition, 266. Redland, 238. Heed, Benjamin, fell at Buuliir Hill, 366. Revolutionary Spirit, 2G5. Settlement, rapid, 259. Settlers, where from, and character, 2:>'X School Committee, First, 262. School-houses, Location of, 2UU. Schools, 202. Soldiers against the Rebellion, 267. Trees in great variety, 261. Ware River, 261. War History, 265-7. Wild Beasts numerous, 262. Willard. Rev. Joseph, 259; killed, 260, 26: Wright, Capt. Samuel, 200. TOWN OF .SHREWSBURY. Agricultural Associates in 1815, 278. Agriculture, 275. Allen, Rev. George, 279. Allotment of Lands, in 1718, 270. Ammunition, 273. Apple Orchards, 275. Baptist Society, Pastors of, 279. Barrel of Rum, 278. Bernard, Sir Francis, 278. Boots and Shoes, 276. Boston, Symx>athy -with, 273. Brass Clocks, 275. Breck, Rev. Mr., His Sermon, 277. Brooks and Streams, 275. Catholic House of Worship, 280. Centre of the Town, 274-.5. Children, Whose baptized? 278. Churches and other Public Buildings, 27 Church Organized, 277 ; Pastors of, 279. Committee's Farm, 271. Committee of Inspection, 273. Common, The, 275. Companies of Militia, in 1774, 273. Conventions, Delegates to, 274. Cashing, Job, 282. " Rev. Job, 278. Deceased Soldiers, Cared for, 281. Ecclesiastical History, 272. Education, 277. Epitaph of Gen. A. Ward, 282. Families, Number of, 283. First Restoration Society, 279. Flint, Dr. Austin, 282. Goddard, Hon. Calvin, 282. " Luther, ingenious, 376. Grantees, Names of, 270-1. Gun, stolen, 272. High School, 277. Hills, 275, Howe, Samuel L., 269. Incorporation, 271. Iron Field-piece, 273. Leather, Annual Product, 276. Leg, The, Annexed to Lancaster, 269. Library, Public, 277. Location of the Town, 269. Lower Village, 276. Mason, John, 276. Meeting-house, 272, 277 ; New One, 278. '• Hill, 275. Methodist Society, Pastors of, 279-80. Monument to Soldiers, 281. Morse, Rev. Ebenezor, examined, 274. Nelson & Rice, 276. Non-importation Association, 273. North Parish, now Boylston, 278. Officers of Distinction, 283. Old Haven Tavern, 277. Order of General Court, 270. Original Grant, large, 269. Pastorate of Sixty Years, 279. Pease, Levi, 282. Petition for Town Privileges, 271. Picturesque and wealthy, 274. Population, 2&3. Post-masters, 277. " road. Old, 275. Present Territory, 269. Provincial Congress, Delegates to, 273-4. Quinsigamond Lake, 275. Representatives, 281-2. Revolution, The, 273. 686 ETOEX. Revolutiouai y Pensioners, 274. Rice, Eev. Gardner, 279. Rifle Company, 276. Rifle-maldng, 276. Ruling Elders, 276. Scudder, Rer. Jobn L., 279. Second Parish of Shieivsliury, 269, 274. Settlers, First, 269-70. Shays' Rebellion, 274. Shoe,' The, Annexed to Westborough, 269. Shrewsbury, 269, 274. Soldiers at Crown Point, 272. Stages, Four a Day, 275. State Aid, 281. Statistics, 283. Steeple and Bells, 278. Stopping the Courts, in 1774, 273. Sumner-house, 280. Sumner, Rev. Dr. Joseph, 278-9. Surroundings, 269. Tanning and Currying, 276. Tea discarded in 1774, 273. Thief Detecting Society, 276. Town a Camp in 1787, 274. Town Hall, 277. Town Officers, First, 272. " Meeting, First, 272. Tories disarmed and restricted, 274. Turnpike, 275. Valuation, 283. Viewing Committee, 270. Votes of the Town in 1774, 273-4. Ward, Gen. Aitemas, 273, 278. " Elisha, 280. War of the Rebellion, 281 ; Soldiers in, 281. Watch-making, 275-6. AVatch, Old, in Antiquarian Hall, 275. Watts' Psalms and Hymns, 278. Whipping-post .and Stocks, 272. TOWN OF SOUTHBOEODGH. Acreage, 285-6. Agricultural Products, 286. Baptist Society and Pastors, 290. Biographical Notes, 292-3. Boots and Shoes, 287. Boundaries, 284. Brick Church, 290. Bridges and Roads, 286. Brooks, 286. Buildings, good, 286. Burnett, Dr. Joseph, 292. " Edward, 286. Catholic Church, 290. Children of Marlborough, The, 285. Church Edifice, Second, dedicated, 200 ; cnn- Tcyed to Pilgrim Society, 290. Church, First Congregational and Pastors, 290. Cordaville, why named, 287. " Mills Company, 287. " Woolen Company, 288. Cow Common, 284. Deerfoot Farm, 286. Episcopal Church and Rectors, 290. Excelsior Butter, 286. Factories, 287. Farms, Superior, 286. Fay Brothers, 288. " Col. F. B., 291. Fayville, 287. Fiddle Neck, 285. Fields, Orchards and Gardens, 286. Granite Rock, 286. High-school House, 290. Hills, Names of, 286. Houses, Number of, 287. Incorporated, 284. Iron Springs, 286. Library, Free Public, 291; Donations to by Col. F. B. Fay, 291. Location of the Town, 284. Lyceums, 292. Manufacture of Brick, 288. Meeting-house, 289. Men and Women, noble, 292 ; Names of, 292-3. Milk and Butter, 286. Mills, 287. Monument to Soldiers. 294. Names of Petitioners for Tot^ti, 285. Newton, Dexter, 284. Newtons, Fays and Brigbams, 289. Oxen and Cows, 287. Paupers, only Five, 287. Peters, Henry H., 290-91. Peters High-school House, 291. Petition for Incorporation, 284-5. Pilgrim Evangelical Society, and Pastors of, 289-90. INDEX. (587 Population, 289. Procuring a Minister, '2Sd. Eailroad Stations, 287. Sanford, Milford H., 287. " Mis. Cordelia, 2S7. Schools, 290-1. Second Cougregatioual Church, 290; Pastors of, 290. Shoe-factory in Fayville, 286. Soldiers, Perfect Record of, 294. Southborough, 284. " Contra, 287. Southville, 287. St. Mark's School, Episcopal, 292. Stone, Kev. Nathan, 290. Stony Brook, 284. Teachers, 290. Town Houses, Cost of, 292. " Meeting, First, 289. " Officers, 289. Trees, Variety of, 286. Valuation, 287. Value of Slanufactured Products, 2^9. Villages, Four, 287. Volumes in Library, 291. Wall Fences, 286. Wai', French and Indian, 293. " oftheEebellion, 294. " Revolutionary, 29:5-4. TOWN OF SOUTIIBRIDGE, Agricultural Products, 310. Ammidowu, Holmes, 305, 313. '• Hon. Ebenezer, 312. Ashland Mills, 302. ' Baptists, 298. Baptist Church, 299. " " Central, 299. " Deacons, 300. " Ministers, 299, 300. " Society, First, 299. Beginnings of Business, small, 300. Best, Eev. E. S., 303. Boundaries, 295. Brick Church, beautiful, 304. Brochu, Rev. G. Elz, 304. Brooks, 296. Business Companies, 308-9. Carpenter, Eev. Eber, 298, 3U. Centre of Business, 295, 300. Central Cotton Mills, 301. " MiUs Company, 301. Child, Hon. Linus, 312. Church, Congregational, 296-8; Pastors of, 293. Columbian Company, 302. Cotton Business started, 301. Covenant, Church, 298. Cutting, Dr. Sewall, 311. Danielson, Eev. Joseph, 298. Deacons of Congregational Church, 298. Delaines, Hamilton, 302. District Court, First, Justices of, 309. Dresser Mills, 301. DweUings, few in 1811, 297. Education, 305. Evangelical Church, Free, 302; Pastors of, 304. Farmers the First Settlers, 296. Fire Department, 309. Foreign-born, 304. French Catholics, 304. Globe Mill, 301. " Village, 296, 301, 304. Hamilton Woolen Company, 301-2. Hills, 296. Historical Collections, 313. Hive of Industry, 296. Honest Town, 296. Hotels, 309. Incorporation, 298. Journal, Southbridge, 307. Kremmen, Eev. John M., 304. Libraries, Sabbath-school, 306. Library Committee, 305. " Public, 305. Location of the Town, 295. Manufactured Products, 310. Masonic Lodges, 309. Marcy Family, The, 290. " Hon. William L.,310-U. " Jcdcdiah, 310. " Moses, 296. Mecting-honso in 1797, 296. Men, leading, Names fif. 310. Methodist Church and Miuistors, 303. Names of Various Societies, 309. 688 INDEX. Notes, Biographical, 310-11. Notre Dame Chiirch, 304. Optical Company, 302. Pamphlets and Maps, valuable, 306. PeriodicaLs, Names of, 306-7. Plimpton, Moses, 313. Poll Parish, 296. Population, 310. Press, The, 306. Professional Men, 309. Protestants, 304. Quinebaug Kiver, 295-6. Koman Catholics, 303. Route of Travel, 295. School Committee, 309. Schools and Schoolmasters, 305. Soldiers in the Civil War, 308. Southbridge Factory Company, 301. Southbridgo taken from three Square Miles in the Town, 2'X Stearns, Rev. Dr. O. S., 312. Stevenson, Rev. B. V., ?,03. Stores, New Brick, 310. St. Peter's Church, .304. Sumner, Dea. George, 300. " William, 301. Surface broken, 295-6. Tracy, Eev. F. P., 303. Universalists, Society of, 303. Valuation, 310. Volnraes in Library, 305. Volunteers, Bounties to, 308. War of the Rebellion, 307-8. Water-power great, 297. Whitaker, George M., 307. Wolcott Brick Mill, .301. Wool Fabrics, First, 300. TOWN OF SPENCER. Acres of Land in the Town, 310. Agriculture, 332. Approjiriations for Schools, 318. Articles of Confederation opposed, 325. Bank of Paper Money, 327. Beaven, Rev. Thomas D., 331. Beef for the Army, 325-6. Bennington, Soldiers at, 324. Bemis, Capt. Edward, 322. " Samuel, Wife and Child, 316-17. Bisbee, Rev. F. A., 331. Boots, 334-5. Boston, Sympathy with, 323-4. Boundaries, 310. Bounties to Soldiers in 1779, 325. " . " 1861-5,327-8. Bounty on Crows, 337. Bos-making, 335. Bunker Hill, Soldiers at, 323. Catholic Church, 331. Cemeteries, 331. Ceutenuial in 1876, 335. Church, Baptist, 331. " Congregational, Pastors of, 329-31. Clothing for the Army in 1777-80, 324. Clerks of District and Town, 316. Coach, Old Stage, 320. Committee of Correspondence, 324. " of Safety, 325-6. Constitution of 1778 rejected, 325. Continental Money, 325-0. Cosson, Rev. Julius, 331. Curtis, A. W., Esq., 314. Debt of the Town, 336. District Meeting, First, 317. " Officers, " 317. Doctors, Names of, 336. Dog Fund, for Library, 319. Early Settlers, 317. Eastern Portion, 314. Eaton, Rev. Joshua, 32J-30. Elevated Township, 316. Fire Department, 319. " Engine, 337. " Great, 335. Fixing Prices, 324. G. A. R. Post, 328. Gifts for the High School, 318. Grievances in 1785-7, 327. H,ats, Palm-leaf, 334. Herrick, Rev. Austin F., 331. High School, 318. Hills, rounded and fertile, 316. History of Town, by J. Dr;iper, 339. Hotels, Five on Old Road, 321. Houses, Number of, 317. Howe, Elias, 332. " William, 332. Incorporation of Precinct, 315. " of District, 315. INDEX. 680 ludependenee declared, iWI. Indian Grant to Leicester, ;ill. Indian Prowlers, 31G. Inventor of the SeTving-macUine, 3o'i. Iron-ore, 31G. .Touks' Tavern, 321. Justices of the Peace, 33G. ' Lamps, Street, 319. Lawyers, Names of, 336. Library Association, 319. Lines of Stages, tliii'teen, 321. Lodges, 336. Mail on Horseback, 320. Massasoit House, 321. Meeting-house, 329; Second, 320. " new in 1861, 329. Memorial Tablets, 328. Men and Money to put down Kebcllion, 328. SIcthodist Society, 331. Military History, 322. Minute-men, 323. Sloose Pond, 316. Museum of Relics, 319. Naomie Cady, 338. National Bank, 335. Negro Slaves, Five, 328-9. Occupations of the People, 332. PoUtics of the Town, 337. Ponds and Streams, 316. Pope Mansion, The, 321. " Mrs. Anna, Great age of, 321. " Rev. Joseph, 321, 330. Population, 317. Post-office, 321. Powder in 1774, 323. . " Mills, 332-3. Preaching, Support of, 314. I 'roprietors' Part, 314. i 'rovisiou for the Poor, 338. Rebellion of Shays resisted, 327. l'('I)resentatives and Delegates, 336-7. Koad Commissioners, 318. Koads, 317. Road, The Old County, 317. " " South and North County, 318. Savings Bank, 335. School Money, 318. Schools and Schoolmasters, 318. Scythes, Hoes and Cutlery, 33 1. Second Precinct, 314. Senators, 337. Settlers' Part, 314. Seven-mile River, 315. Sidewalks, 319. Silver, 316. Small-pox, 338. Spiked Gun, 322. Spencer, 314 ; a Town in 177."), 315. " Railroad Company, :!20-l. Stage Lines in 1783, 320. Stay Law, .326-7. Stoves in Meeting-house, 337. Tate and Brady, 330. Tavern, Old, as seen by a Frenchman, 321. Tender, Legal, 327. The Spencer Sun, 336. Town Clerks, 337. " Hall, 319, 328. " Meetings, where held, 318-19. " Pound, 338-39. Tories execrated, 325. Tower and Cupola, 329. Trees, Shade, 319. Trick, Odd, 320. Truss Wooden Bridge, 332. Universalist Society, 331. Valuation, 317. Veto of Gov. Shirley, 314. Volumes in Library, 319. Walker, Rev. A. S., 331. Wallace,Rcv. S. C, 331. Wars, French and Indian, 322. War of the Rebellion, 327-8. " " Revolution, 323-6. Washington, Gen., 321. Watson, Oliver, 316. Watts' Psalms and Hymns, 330. Western Portion, 314. " Railroad, 320. Wire-making, 3.^3-4. Wood, Nathaniel, 316. Woolen Manufacture, 334. TOWN OF .STERLING. Acres, Number of, 340. Allen, Rev. P. T., 349. Baptist Church and Ministers, 347-8. Bcaman, Gamaliel, and others, 342. vol. II.— 87 Blood, Col. Thomas II., 347, 352. Bounties in 1861-.5, 350-1. Bridges, expensive. 343. Brooks and Lakes, 341. 690 INDEX. Cauker-rash, 344. Capen, Eev. Samuel, 34(5-7. Cliocksett or Choset, 340, 343; a Paribli ..r Precinct, 343. Cburch Fonueil, 343 ; bad rest, 346 ; Miuis- ters of, 347. Clark, Eev. Josiah, 347. Constitution of United States aiipvoved, 344. Converse, Kev. Otis, 347. Covenant of tbe Cliurcli altered, 34G-7. Deaths in Sterling and other Towns, 343. Domestic Animals, Value of, 349. Dysentery, fatal, 343. Education, 350. Elevations, 340-1. Evangelical Churcb, First, and Ministers, 34S. Families, Patrician, 345. Family of Mr. Mellen, 346. Farmers' Club, 351. Farming, 348-9. French and Indian War, 17,'>.')-9, 343. G. A. E. Post, 351. Goodwin, Isaac and John A., 352. Goss, Rev. Mr., of Bolton, 346. Great Earthquake, 343. Hatters, 349. Henchman, Capt., 341. Historical Interest, tender, 341. Holcomb, Rev. Eufus, 346. Hotel, Central, 349. Improvable Land, 340. Incorporation, 344. Indian Fight, The, 342-3. " Justice, 342. " Regattas, 341. Industries, chief, 349. Latitude, 340. Leather, 349. Library, 351. Longevity and Health, 3.">1. Lord Sterling, 344. Meeting-House, First, 344 ; Second, 344. Mellen, Eev. John, 343, 345. Mile-wido Strip, 344. Mine, Old, 341-2. Morning Action in 1755, 343. Slorals relaxed, 1750-90, 345. Monument to the Soldiers, 351. Naval Contest on Waushacum, 341. Number in the Cburcli, 347. Ore, Silver, 341-2. Parallel Ridges, 340. Peck, Dr. William D., 348, 351. Perkins, Eev. B. F., 348. Pews, Seating the, 345. Philip, 341. Pojiulation, 349. Pottery Business, 349. Praying Women, 347. Prescott, John, and others, 342. Prominent Citizens, 351-2. Putnam, Eev. Dr. George, 351. Bedstone and other Hills, 341. Eevolution, social, 345. School, Private, 349. Schools, Public, 350. Sebastian Bible, 352. Shays' Outbreak opposed, 344. Sholan, 341. Silver Tankards, 352. Smith, Sebastian, 352. Soil, good, 340. Soldiers in the Eebels' War, 350-1. Square Miles, 340. Stage Routes, Old, 349. Sterling taken from Lancaster, 340. " in the Eevolution, 343. " against the Eebellion, 350-1. Surface, 340. Tahanto, Sachem, 342. Tanning, 349. Thomas, Moses G., 352. Town Hall, 351. " House, 345. " Officers in 1861-5, 351. Universalists, 347. Veto Power of the Clergy, 34G. Waushacum Lakes, 341. Whitcomi), Col. Asa, 343, 345, 351. White Settlers, First, 342. Wilder, Capt. Ephraim, 344, 351. Woonsechocksett, 340. TOWN OF ISTUEBRIDGE. Acreage in 1792, 359. Agriculture, 367. Allen, Liberty, 370. Augers and Bits, 370-1. Baptist Church, 365 ; Pastors of, 366. " Meeting-house, 366. Baptists harassed, 365; exempted from paying Parish Tax, 366. INDEX. 691 Bible in tbe Indian Tongue, 353. Blacklead Mines, 303. Blunt, Elder John, killed, 365. Boston, Sympathy with, 358. Brick School-house, 362. Church, Congregational, and Ministers, 364-5. Clark, Rev. Dr. Joseph, 364. Committee on Public Affairs in 1774, 358. Cotton-mills : Officers, 369-70. Country Gore, 359. Cushion for Minister, 357. Cutters and Dies, 371. Declaration of Independence, 358. Drawing Lots for Land, 354-5. Dummer Tract, 354. Education, 361. Eliot, Rev. John, 353. Episcopal (Grace) Church, 366-7; Rectors of, 367. Ewing, Rev. William, 365. Fiskdale Mills, 356 ; Village, 366-9. Fiske, Hon. Josiah J., 366-69. Fisk, Henry, gave Lead, 358. " James C, 371. Funeral Carriage, House for, 359. Graduates of Colleges, 363. Grammar School, 361. Goody Lincoln, the Witch, 365. Grist-mills, 356. Harnesses, Carriages, &c., 370. Hobbs, Samuel, in Boston Tea-party, 358. Incorporation, 3.56. Laud given to Eliot, 353. " in Town good in Parts, 355. Library, Public, and Committee, 362. Marcy, Moses, 355-6. Medtield People, Grantees, 354. Meeting-house, First, 364. Meeting of Soldiers in 1774, 358. Mills in 1792, 359. Morse, A. C, Esq., 353. Moulton, Rev. Ebenezer, 356. Mountains and Hills, 355. New Lights, 365. " MedCcld, 355. Nipmuck Country, Bounds of, 353. Old Cemetery, 359. Oldham, John, 363. Orthodox Minister, 364. Paine, Rev. Joshua, gave Powder, 358 1 preached to Soldiers, 358. Parsonage, 364-5. Petit i, 416. " of the Eeliels, 416-17. Warren House, 420. Waverlcy BuiltUug, 414. Weld, R. Congregational Church Edifice, 424. " " Paatora of, 429. Cotton and Woolen Mills, 432. Cotton Mill, largest, 428. Delegates to Provincial Congress, 425. Depot and Station-house, 427. District Court, 427, 434. Dudley, William, Speaker, 422. Edifice, Church, 427. Evangelical Church, 429 ; Pastors of, 430. Female Academy, 434. Ferry, Rev. Mr., 423. Fish, letting them come up, 424. Great River, 424. Gospel Minister, 429. Hancock for Governor, 426. High School, 427. " Building, 427. Hiring Soldiers in 1779, 426. Incorporated, 422. Independence in May, 1776, 425. Indian Inhabitants, 421. Ironstone, 427, 429, 433. 696 INDEX. Library, Public, 427, 434. Lieut.-Governor's Damage, 424. Location of Meeting-liouse, 423. of Town, 42t. Meeting-lionsc, 423-4. Meeting, First, in Town, 423. Jlethodist Cbnrcli and Ministers, 431. Mills and Mill-owners, 433-4. " " Water-works, 432. Slonoy for the War, in 1779, 426. Names of deceased Soldiers, 1861-5, 435-6. New Town Hall, 428. Niprauck or Blackstone Elver, 421. Nortlibridgo set off, 425. Nortb Usbridge, 427-8, 432. " " Baptist Church, and Pastors of, 430-1. OfScers, First Town, 423. Old Qnaker Jleeting-honse, 430. One-horse Gig for Mails, 434. Orthodox Minister, 422. Owners of Mills, 432. Paget, Henry, Earl of Uxbridge, 422. Polly and Dolly Taft, 42S. Petition for Town grantied, 421. Postmasters, 434. Preston, Rev. Dr. Willard, 436. Price for Service of Soldiers, 1780, 426-7. Putnam, Judge A. A., 434. Purl and Flip, 423. Quakers, The, Not to free, 423. Railroad, 427, 436. Rawson, Abner, 426. Representatives, 427, 436. " and Delegates in 1775-9, 426. Residences, handsome, 428. Rivers and Ponds, 427. Rogerson Village, 428, 432. Roman Catholic Church, 431 ; Ministers of, 43.J. Rum, fifteen Gallons, 423-4. Savings Bank, 435. School, 424. School Dame, 424. School-house, handsome, 434. Schools, graded and mixed, 434. Spring Tavern, 423. Sqn.are Miles in the Town, 437. Squadron the Schools, 424. Stage Coaches, 434. State Aid, 435. Stocks, Pair of, 424. Stockwell, George A., 421. Stores, Location of, 428. Surface, uneven and rugged, 427. Taft's Twenty-two ChUdren, 428. Textile Fabrics, 431. Thayer, Joseph, 436. Three Rivers give Wealth, 427. Three Silver Cups, 429. Tories under the ban, 425. Turnpike Company, 434. Uuitariau Society, 430 ; Pastors of, 430. Uxbridge, 421, 432. " Academy, 434. " against the Rebellion, 435. Village, 427, 429. Wacantuck or Waentug, 421. Wacautuck House, 428. Washington in Uxbridge, 428 ; Letter of, 428. Water-privileges, 431. Ways and Roads, 424. Webb, Elizabeth and Ruth, 429. " Rev. Nathan, 424, 429. Woodward, George, teacher, 424. Woolen and Cotton MOls, 432. Woolen Manufactories, 428. TOWN OF "WARREN. Andersonville Prisoners, 452. Animals, wild, 438. Area, 437. Arrows, Stone, 438. Arsenal, United States, 447, Baxter, Rev. Stephen, 446. Bead-eyed Pappoose, 438. Beauty of Mrs. Baxter, 446. Bible the Chart of Life, 443. Bliss, Rev. Isaac, 450. Boots and Shoes, 453. Bowlder, great, 439. Brooklets and Ravines, 438. Brown, Old John, 452. Bruin, 438. Buried sitting, 438. Burt, Rev. Sylvester, 447. Cenotaphs, 455. Cedar HiU, 439. Cheese Factory, 454. Christ the Beacon-light, 443. Chuich, Congregational, 450. INDEX. C97 Church, Congregational, in West Warren, 454. Colonel's Mountain, 439. Cooper, Ensign Thomas, 437. Cotton-yarn, 447. Congrcg.itional Meeting-House, 450. Coy's Hill, 441. Cutter, Dr. Calvin, 452. " Miss Carrie E., 452. " Mrs. Eunice P., 437. Dearborn's Powder-horn, 444. Debby Palmer, 438. Descendants of the Pilgrims, 446. Early Settlers, their Toils, 441-2. Eaton, Gen., 447 Elbow Tract, 437. Elm of Col. Keyes, 440. Emigrants, armed, to Kansas, 451. Engraver Sykes, 448. Families, Ancient, 454. Fasting and Prayer, 443. Fire Companies, 454. First Birth, 443. " Marriage, 443. French Fort, 444. « War, 1755-9, 443. Halls, 4.54. Hills and Prospects, 439. Home Improvements, 446-7. Homespun for Silk, 444. Howe, William, 449. Incorporation, 439. Indian entranced in Prayer, 438. " Hoes, 448. " Village, 438. " Trail, 440. Industries, Old and New, 449. Iron, Quartz, Clay, etc., 441. Iron-works, 447-d. Johnson, Miss, a Missionary, 450. Jones, Rev. Isaac, 443. Kansas, armed Emigrants to, 452. Kellogg, Capt. Joseph, 442. Keyes, Capt. Solomon, 443. Knowles' Steam-pumps, 453-4. Latitude and Longitude, 439. Library, Free Public, 455. Location of the Town, 437. Locomotive Engine, 446. Lord Amherst's Camp, 444. Love of Country and Home, 441. Loyal but Free, 4 14. VOL. n.— 88 Manufactures, Various, 453. Marks" Mountaiu and Garrison, 437. Mattawamppe, 437, Meetiug-House, First, 442; Second, 446. " " Univer8ali8t,449. Methodist Church, 450. " " in West Warren, 454. Mineral Spring, 441. Minute-Meu in 1773, 444. Mothers and Fathers, 455. Nail Machine, 445. Names of Soldiers in the Rebels' War, 453. Navigation by Steam-power, 446. Nipmuck Braves, 439. " Tribe, 440. Notable Men, 455. Officers in the Revolution, 444-5. Old Bay-path, 440. Old Mile-stone, 440. Patrick, Isaac, Esq., 449. Philip, 439. Pierce, Rev. Dr. N. P., 445. Politics on StUts, 447. Powder, Lead and Flints, 443. Powder-mills built, 447. Preaching and Schooling, 442. Puritan Faith and Practice, 443. Quaboag Indians, 437. " River, 439. " Seminary, 450. Railroad, Boston and Albany, 439. " Opening, an Epoch, 450. Reed, Hon. Nathan, 445. Reed Street, 440. Richardson, Nathan, 455. Road or Bridge-path, 442. Roman Catholics, 454. Route of Burgoyne's Army, 440. Route, Old, Old, 440. Scenes of Rare Beauty, 439. Schooling, 443. School-house, 443. Schools, High and Grammar, 450. Shattoqnis, 437. Shaves and Chisels, 448. Shays' Fiasco, 445. Small-pox, 444. Spcar-heads, 438. Stage-coach, 449. Stn-vtum of Sand, 441. Strong, Rev. Thomas, 443. Sweet Singer's Troth, 440. Tanning, 448. 698 INDEX. Tea-pot Closely hid, 444. Temperance Society, 449. Tiild, Charles P., 452. Town Hall, 454-5. " Meeting, First, 442. " well ■n-atered, 441. Trask, Eev. George, 450. Truss, Howe's, 449. Universalist Church, First, 449. " " Second, 449. Village, A New England, 439. Warren, formerly Western, 437. Warren, how made up, 437. War-cloud Burst at Lexington, 444. War of 1812, 447. " of the Rebellion, 451-2. " " Revolution, 444. Washington at the Well, 440. Western becomes Warren, 449. West Warren Mills, 447. White Farm, The, 442. Willard, Dr. E., 455. Winslow the Clockmaker, 448. Women, Heroic, 451. Wood, Dr. Obadiah, 443. Woolen Mill, First, 447. TOWN OF WEBSTER. Area, 456. Baptist Church of Dudley, 458-9 ; Reorgan- ized and Pastors, 459-CO. Bartlett, Luther and Stephen, 478. Bear Hill, 456. Boundaries, 456. Bounties to Soldiers in 1861-5, 465-6. Bridges, substantial, 457. Brown, Moses, 469. Catholic Parish (St. Louis), 462. " " French (Sacred Heart), 462. Chapin, Daniel, 458. Chaubunaguugamaug Lake, 457-70. Congregational Church and Society, 461-2 ; Pastors and Deacons of, 462. Congregational Sleetiug-house, 462. Cotton Manufactories, 470. District Court, 476 ; Officers of, 476. Drs. Noyes and Tenny, 478. Episcopal Church, 465 ; Church Edifice and Rectors, 464. Fennei-'s Mills, 473. Fire Department, 477. Five Cents Savings Bank, 476. French or Maauesit River, 456. " River Mill-privileges, 470. G. A. R. Post 61, 477. Gas-light Company, 477. Green Mill, The, 470. Hands Employed, 471-2. High School, 465. Hotels, 477. Incorporation, 456, 471. Industries, various, 476. Iresoii, Eev. Joseph, 478. Jaconets, 472. John Chase & Sons, 473. Ladies' Aid Society, 466-7. Library, Young People's, 477. Linen Works, Stevens, 470. Location of the Town, 456. Lodges and Societies, 477. Machines for Carding and Spinning, 469. Merino Wool Factory Company, 470. Methodist Church, 460 ; Pastors of, 460-1. " Meeting-houses, 461. Murdock, Mrs. Julia C, 463. National Bank, First, 476. " Centennial celebrated, 477. Officers and Men against the Rebellion, 466. " Town, during the Rebellion, 466. Oxford, South Gore, 470. Pegan Indians, 456. Population, 458. Post-Office, 476. Prominent Men, 478. Prmting-Office, 477. Railroads, 473, 478. Real Estate rising, 478. Reformed Methodists, 461. Representatives, 458. Roads, excellent, 457. Samuel Slater & Sons, 471-2. School Districts, 464-5. Schools, 457 ; graded and mixed, 465. Shoe Business, 473-5. Slater, George B., 478. " Samuel, 467-70. Sliiters, 458. Soldiers Klled in- the Civil War, 467. Surface diversified, 456. INDEX. G99 Town Meeting, First, 457. " Officers, " 457. " wealthy, 478. Union Mills, 472. Uuiversalist Society, 463 ; Ministers of, 463. Villages, Four, 458. Village, Depot, 470-1. " East, 458, 470-2. " North, 470-1. VUlage, South, 458, 471, Wakefield, Elder, 468. Wakefield Family, 478. War of the EeboUion, Action in Relation to, 465-6. Water-works, 477. Webster, honored Name, 456. " how made up, 456. " Steam-power Company, 475-6. " " Weekly Times," 477. Woolen Manufactures, 471. TOWN OF WESTBOROTJGH. Address in 1772, 486. Advent Church and Ministers, 493. Agricultural Society, 495. Alarm List, 487. Assahet Kiver, 480. Association, School, 493. Baptist Society, First, Ministers of, 492. Bell .ind Belfry, 487. Boot and Shoe Manufacture, 498, Boston Hill, 479. Boundaries, 479; in 1717, 481. Bouuty List in 1781, 487. Brigham, John, 480. Bunker Hill, Soldiers at, 486-7. Cemeteries, The Present, 489. Chauncy Pond, 478. Chauuoy, Rev. Charles, 480. Chrouotype, 496. Church organized, 483 ; Pastors of, 491. Clock, 487. Committee of Correspondence, 486. Congregational Society, First, 491. Cost of Civil W.ar, 490. Creed of the Church, 490. Debating Society, Young Men's, 495-6. De Forest, Rev. Heman P., 479, 491. Educational History, 493. Elmer, Rev. Mr., 482. Evangelical Society, 491. Families in 1767, 485. Farm Products, 496. Fay Farm, 480. Field-piece, 486. Fighting with Hardships, 481. Fire Department, 497. First Families, Number of, 481. Forbes, Rev. J. P., 492. Gooduow, Samuel, Grant to, 481. Good Record in the Rebellion, 489. Growth of the Town, 487. Heads of Families, Names of, 481. High School, 493. HiUlreth, Rev. Ilosea, 491. Hills, 479. Hobomoo or Hocomocco Pond, 479. House of Worship, Advent, 493. Incorporation, 481. Indian Raids, 480-1. Industries, various, 497-9. Library, Union Social, 495. Little Brooks, 479-80. Lyman, Hon. Theodore, 494. March Election, first, 482. March, The, to Lexington, 486. Maynard, Hon. Horace, 499. Mechanics' Association, 496. Meeting-house, Baptist, 492. " Congregational, 482, 484; en- larged, 485. Meeting-house, Methodist, 492. Mercantile Centre, 497. Methodist Church, 490 ; Pastors of, 492. Military Companies organized, 486. " ' Spirit, 485, 4H8. Milk and Milk Companies, 496. Ministers, first settled, 481. National Bank, 499. New Burying Gronnd, 489. Newspapers, 496. Noon-house, 487. North Precinct becomes Northborough, 485. Old Burying Ground, 489. Ordination Day a High Day, 490. Organ, 483. Orthodox Minister indispens.'vble, 482. Parkman, Mary Champney, 484. " Rev. Ebenezer, 481, 483, 490. Pastorate, long, 490. Pauperism, 488. 700 INDEX. Pistol in Hand, 483-4. Poiiiilation in 1791, 487 ; in 1839, 489. Pound and Stocks, 482. Powdt.r-hoiise, 488. Powder, Slaot, &o., 486. Precincts, Two, 484. Railroad, Boston and Worcester, 488-9. Rattlesnakes, 481. Reform Club, 496. Reservoir, 479. Restoration, 490. Revolutionary War, 485. Rlium and Syder, 483. Rice, Thomas, 480. " Timotliy a sachem, 481. Eohinson, Mr. John, installed, 490. Rockwood, Mr. Elislia, ordained, 490. Roman Catholic Church and Priests, 49^-3. Sabbath Scliool, First, 490. Salary and Settlement, 483. Sandras Pond, 479. Savings Bank, 499. School-house, 484. School-master, first, 484. Situation, 479. Sleighs, Manufacture of, 498. Soldiers on Many Fields, 489-90. Soldiers' Sewing Society, 489. State Reform School, 493-5. Steam-power, 497. Stores, 497. Straw Goods, 498-9. Sudbury River, 480. Surface, 479. Swampy Land, 479. Taverns, 488. Temperance Reform, 490-1. The Old Arcade, 485. Thread Factory, 488. Town Hall, 489. Turnpike, Boston and Worcester, 488. Unitarian Controversy, 491. " House of Worship, 491 ; Miuiste of, 491-2. Village Improvement Society, 496. " of Chanucy, 480. " The, how located, 479. War of the Rebellion, 489. Wessonville, 488-9. Westborough, part of Marlborough, 480. Whituey, Eli, 499. WillowPark, 485, 488. Wolves and Wild-cats, 481. Workhouse, 488. Woman's Christian Temperance Union, 496. TOWN OF WEST BOYLSTON. Apparatus, School, 507. Baptist Society, 502; Pastors oti 502. Beamau Bridge, 503. Beamau, Ezra, 512. " Maj. Ezra, 511-12, 516. " Manufacturing Company, 506. " Tavern, 512. Bigelow, Erastus B., 513. Boot-makiug, 507. Boiindaries, .500. Bridges, 503. Brick Church, 502. Catholic Society, 502. Calviuistic and Unitarian, 502. Civil War, the Town's Action, 509. Clarendon Mills, 503, 506. Cold Spring, 514. Congregational Church and Ministers of, 501-2. Cotton-mill, first, 503. " Sheetings, .504. Crane, Rev. Alvan M., 502. Cross, Rev. Joseph W., 502. Derbuel, Father A. J., 502. Dimensions of the Town, 500. Elms and other Trees, 512. Expenses in the Civil War, 511. Fairbank, Rev. Francis J., 503. Fanning Mills, 505. Farms, 508. Fertile SoU, 500. Fires, 513. Flour-mill, .505. G. A. R. Post, 501. Grains, 508. Grist-mill, 505. Harrisville, 503. Harris, The Messrs. 503-4. High Schools, 501. Holbrook, E. W., 505. Hosmer, Gen. E. M., 509. Houghtou, Horatio, Esq., 500. Hunt, Dr. 510. Incorporation, 500, 511. INDEX. 701 Ladies, patriotic, 511. Ladies' Slices, 507. Liberal Society, The, 502. Library, Public, 501. Lodges, 501. Mechanics in 1808, 500. Meeting-House, burned, 502, 511. Methodist Church and Ministers, 502. Military Company, 509. Milk, 508. Mills, burned, 503-4. Nashua Kiver, 503. Oak Baskets, 507. Oakdale, 507. Cak Tree, 514. Officers in the War, 510. Organs, 508. Pentecost, Rev. WiUiam, 502. Pleasant Valley, 514. Plunkett, Serg't Thomas, 510. Population, 500. Precinct, Second, 511. Quinnepoxet Kiver, 503. Railroads, 510. Religious Societies, 501. Scenery diversified, 500. School-honses, 501. Settled bywhite Men, first, 500. Shoddy, 504. Soldiers raised in 1861-5. 509-10. Stillwater River, 503. Tenements, 504-5. Thomas, Robert B., 512-13. Thomas' Hall, 515. Tornadoes, 508-9. Trough, Stone watering, 512. Twine and Wiclung, 505. Unitarian Ministers, 503. Uuiversalist " 503. Talley Village, 501. Vegetables, 508. Villages, Seven, 500-1. Votes at different Elections, 513-14. Warfield, S. R., 503 Water-power, 503. West Boylston, Location of, 500. " Manufacturing Co., 503-4 Wheeler, Dr. 510. Woolen-mili, 504. TOWN OF WESTMINSTER. Academy, 520. Aged People, Many, 519. Anti-Slavery, 522. Bakery, Cracker, 521. Barber, Rev. Joseph, 520. Beginnings of a Town, 516. Blacksmiths' Shops, 521. Bonndaries, 515. Bowman, William, 516. Brass Band, 522. Briggs, Rev. Levi, 520. Business Men, 525. Carding Machine, 521. Chairmaking, 521. Church, Baptist, 520; P.astor3 of, 520; Houses of Worship, 520. " Congregational, 519. Cider Jlills, 525. Ch'rgymcu, 525. Cooliilge, Rev. C. E., 519. Dyke, Nicholas, Anecdote of, 517. Economy and I'rospirity, 516. Estabrook, Capt. John, 518. Everettville, 519. Farming, 520. Female Missionaries, 525. Fire-Engines, 522. French Politeness, 517. « Wariu 1758,516-7. Fugitive Slaves, 522. Fulling Mill, 521. G. A. R. Post, 523. Granite Monument, 523. Graves' Fort, 516. Grist Mill, 516. Good Templars, Lodge of, 522. Height of Land, 516. High School, 520. Home-made Implements, 521. Howling Wilderness, .515. Hudson, Rev. Charles, 520. Incorporated as a Di.strict, 516. " " Town, 517. Independence, 518. Idle Persons not wanted, 5l(i, 702 INDEX. ludians lurking in tlie Woods, 516. Inducements to settle, 515. Jackson, Capt. Elisha, 518. Linseed-Oil MiU, 521. Location, 518. Longevity, 519. Mann, Rev. Cyrus, 519. Manufactures, 520-21. Marsli, Eev. Elisha, 519. Men of Mark, 524-5. Meeting-House, 515, 519. Miles, Capt. Noah, 518. " Gen. Nelson A., 523-4. Military Companies in the Revolution, 518. " Spirit, 522. Militia Companies, North and South, 522. Miller, Jonas, 515. Mountains and Hills, 518-9. Narragansett, No. 2, 515. National Bank, 721. OfiScers and Soldiers in the Rebellion, 523. Pails, 521. Paper and Chairs, 521. Physicians, 525. Population, 518. Post-Offico and Stores, 521. Preparing for the Revolution, 517-18 Preserves, 521. Railroads, 518. Religious Societies, 519. Resolution passed in 1768, 516. Rice, Eev. Asaph, 519. Eifle Company, 522. Saw-MUls, 521. Scenery, 518-19. Schools, 520. Scrabble Hollow, 521. Soldiers on a Tramp, 517. Stage and Post Route, 518. Summer Resort, 518. Superfluities discarded, 516. Tanneries, 521. Tavern, Old, 518. Teachers, 525. Teams, forty or fifty put up, 518. Temperance Reform, 522. Town House a Memorial Hall, 523. Troops aud Supplies in the Revolution, 518. Universal Restorationists and their Ministers, 520. Villages, outlying, 515. Visitors, Summer, 519. Wachusett Mountain and Lake, 519. Wachusettville, 515, 522. Westminster, 515. " Bread, 521. " Guards, 522. " Hotel, 522. South, 521. TOWN OF WmCHENDON. Academy, Teachers of, 533. Acres, number of, 528. Adventurers, few on the ground, 528 Books, 54G-7. Baptist Church in New Boston, 539. " " in the Village, 540. Berry, Col. Thomas, 526-7. Boston, Sympathy with, in 1774, 530. Boundaries, 528. Bridges, 534. Brooks and Springs, 528. Brown, Mrs., her Remark, 529. Rov. Joseph, 597, 542. BullardvUle, 537, 542. Bullets, 531. Bunker Hill, Soldiers at, 530. Cemeteries, 541. Centre, reserved, 526. Character of the People, 529. Choate, Capt. John, 526. Church, Congregational, 537 ; Ministers of 538-9. " North Congregational, 539-40. " " " Ministers of, 539-40. " of the Unity, 540, 546. Clapboards, durable, 529. Clarke, Rev. Benjamin F., 532. Clark, Rev. Eber L., 538. " " Elam, 538. Climate, severe, 529. Conditions of the Grant, 526. Crosby, Esq., 531. Day, Richard, 527, 530, 537. Declaration of Independence, 530. Denison Pond, 528. Dome of the Wachusett, 528. Education, 529. Elevation, great, 528. " of the Centre aud the Village, 528. INBEX. 703 Ecjuality of Condition, 529. Establisliments, thirty, 544. Exhaustion of the W:ir, 1775-83, 531. Expedition to Canada, 526. Fairbank, Henry, 547. " Maj. Sidney, 544. Families in 1761, 527. Farms, 543. Farming, 541. Father Morau, 540. Fathers of the Town, Names of, 527-8. Four-horse Stage, 535. French and Indian War, 527, Gardner takes a SUce, 528. Graduates, 547. Grantees, Heirs of, 526. Grant of Land, 526 ; Conditions of, 526. Hale, Moses, 530, 537. Hambliu, Rev. J. S., 540. Hanaford, Rev. Mr., 540. Hardships, 529. Henshaw, Daniel, 532. High School, 533. HOls, 528. Hobson, Capt. John, 526. Hungry for Meat, 529. Incorporation, 526-7. Indian Allies of France, 527. Inducements to Settle, 527. Industries, various, 543-5. Ipswich, 526. Ipswich Canada, 526. Intoxication the Cause of Poverty, 536. Inventors, 545. Isaac M. Murdock Block, 546. Lawyers, 547. Leaders of the People, 530. Libraries, private and public, 542-3. Location, 528. Lodges, 547. London, Eden, .536. Loud, Charles A., 544. Lyndeboro' Hills, 528. Machine Shops, 544. Mail on Horseback, 535. Mason, Orlando, 544. Meeting-house, 526, 529. " " Second, 537. Methodists, 539. Military Company in 1775, 530. Miller's River, 528, 542. Mills and Factories, 543-5. Minister, learned and orthodox, 526. Ministers, "547. Minute-men, 530. Money for Schools, 532. Mouadnoik, The Grand, 528. Monomonank Lake, 523. Morton, Rev. Daniel O., 538. Murdock, Capt. Ephraim, Jr., 544, 547. " Col. William, 544. " Ephraim, Esq., 543. " Hon. Elisha, 532. L M., 546. Names of Soldiers in 1775, 530. Naukeag Ponds, 523. North Congregational Church, Ministers of, 539-40. Pails, Tubs. Churns, 543. Payson, Edward, 532. Pepperell, Sir William, 526. Physicians, 547. Pillsbury, Rev. Levi, 538. Pino Forests, 529. Plain, long and sandy, 528. Poor People cared for, 535-6. Population in 1775, 530. " " 1875, 541. Posting a Tippler, 536. Prominent Men, 547. Railroad, Boston, Barre and Gardner, 535. " Cheshire, 535. " Mouadnock, 535. " Ware River, 535. Refugees from Boston, 530. Revolution, The Story of, 530-31. Road to Earliugton, 533. Roads, fii-st, 533 ; rough, 534. " straightened, 534. Rocks and Swamps, 529. Roman Catholics, 540. Eoyalston Leg, 528. Scenery, 528-9. School-house Meetings, 541. Schoolmasters, 531. Schools, 531-3. Settlers, Names of, 527. Shares, Sixty-three, 526. Shays and his Friends, 531. Shingle Town, 529. Six Miles Square, 526. Smith, Abijah, 527. Spanish War, 526. Spring Village, 532, 541-2. Stimpsou, Rev. Daniel, 529, 534. Surface very uneven, 528. Tanneries, 543. 704 INDEX. Taverns, 534-5. Tho Centre, 541. Thoroiigbfare of Travel, 534. Tilton, Lieut. Abraham, 526-7. Unliappy Controversy, 537-8. Unitarians : their Pastors, 540. Views, Extensive, 528. Village, The, 535, 542. Villages, Three, 541-2. War of the Eehellion, 545-6. Wataties, The, 528. "Watervillo, 532, 541-2. Wheeler, Rev. Charles, 540. Well-watered, 528. White, Nelson D., 543-4. Whitney, Hon. B. D., 544. " Phinehas, 531, 547. Whiton, Dr. Israel, 529, 532. " Rev. Dr., 530-2. WUder, Hon. Abel, 529-30, 537. " Thomas, 527. Winchendon, 526 ; Name of, 527. " Village, 532, 541. Woods, Variety of, 529. Wood-ware, 543. Woolen Factories, 543. Wolves, 529. Workhouse, 536. CITY OF WORCESTER. A. Arcadia, People of, 575. Adams, John, 565, 608. " Rev. Zabdial, 567. Addresses, Patriotic, in 1861, 589. Aldrieh, P. Emory, 636. Allen, Charles, 555, 624. " George, 624. " Samuel, 624. American Political Society, 578. Ames Plow Company, 660. Ammunition, Stock of, 579. Armed Resistance, 582. Ancient Inhabitants, rights of, 552. Ancient Order of Hibernians, 656. Arcade Malleable Iron Company, 6.59. Argillaceous Slate, 564. Artillery Company, 582. Asylum for Chionic Insane, 562, 650. Austin, Samuel, 566. B. Bradley's, Osgood, Car Works, 665. Brass and Iron Castings, 659. Brick Church on Court HiU, 568. Brick-making, 563. Broadcloths, (J58. Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, 655. " " Firemen, 655. Brown, Alvirus, 599. Building, Stone, 564 Bullock, Alex. H., 636. Burial Grounds, 555-6. " Places, 639. Burnside, Samuel M., 555. Burr, Rev. Mr., 556, 565. Bushnell, George, .571. Biicon, Peter C, 635. Baldwin, John D., 638. Ball, Phinehas, 637. Bancroft, Aaron, 566-7. Banks, National, 651-2. " Savings, 651-2. Baptist Church, First, and Pastors of, 568. " " Second, and Pastors of, 568. " Meeting-house, 568. " Society, First, 568. Barton, Ira M., 626. " William S., 556. Battalion of Rifles, 589. Bear Brook, 562. Beaver Brook, 562. Belcher, Gov., 565. Bcntk-y, Elder Wm., 568. Bernard, Gov., 578. Bethel for Colored People, 572. Bigelow, Timothy, 582, 620. Boydeii, John, 559. Biographical Sketches, 618. Blackbirds, Jays and Rattlesnakes, 553. Blackstone Canal, 563. " River, 563. Blake, Francis, 625. " James B., 637. Blanchard, Henry, 571. Board of Trade, 654. Boots and Shoes, 666-7. Boston Pamphlet, 578. " and Worcester Turnpike, 561. " and New York Mail, 558. Bounties for Soldiers, 584. Bounties for Wild Animals, 556. Bounties in 1779, 585. Calls for Troops responded to, 585. Calvinist Church, 568. Camp Furniture, 663. INDEX. 705 Camp Lincoln, 592. " of lustructiou, 591. Common Ilonse, S.'iG. Cards for Cotton and Wool, 657, Catholic Bclievirs, 569. " Churches, 569. " Priests and Curates, 569, 572. Cemetery, Hope, 639. " Mechanic Street, 639. " Pine Meadow, 639. " Rural, 639. Central Chuich Mission, 572. Chandler, Col., 574-5. " Gardner, 575. " John, 618. " John, Jr., 618. " John, 3d, 618. " Major John, 573. Chapin, Henry, 634-5. Chaplains, Names of, 597-8. Chase, Anthony, 662. " Charles A., 548. Children's Friend Society, 655. Choir, regular, 565. Church Covenant, .565. " of the Immaculate Conception, 572. " of the Unity, 571. " Old South, Pastors of, 566. City Charter, Petition for, 559. " Debt in 1879, 559. " Hall, 554-5. " Hospital, 649-50. Claims of the Commonwealth, .550. Clergymen of Worcester, Tribute to, 572. Clocks, Church and Tower, 657. Coal-mine, 563. Coes' Pond, 562. " Wrench, 665-6. College of the Holy Cross, 572. Committee of Correspondence, 578-9. " " Settlement, 551. Common, The, .555. Confederation, The, approved, 585. Congregational Singing, 565. " Way, 566. Constitution of the State, approved, 586. Continentals, 641. Convention at Concord, 585. Co-operative Saving Fund, 654. Coral Street Church, ,572. Corn and Saw Mills, 6.56. Cotton Spinning and Weaving, 657. Counter-Protest, 581. County Conventions in 1782-4-6, 586. Court House, Stone, 564. Court of Common Pleas, 582. Crafts, Edwin, 58.i. Creed and Covenant, new, 566. Cromptou Loom Works, 664-5. Crown Point .attacked, 575. Cunard Company, 616. Cunning Miner, 563. Curtis, Albert, 666. Curtis' Pond, 562. " Works, 666. D. Dale Hospital, 600. Dark Granite, Supply of, 563-4. Davis, Isaac, 558, 589, 635-61. " Jolm, 554, 626. " J. C. B., 626. Declaration of Independence Received, 584. Descendants of Scotch-Irish, Names of, 553. Devens, Charles, Jr., 589, 634. Dewey, Francis H., 634. Difference in Religious Faith, 566. Digory, Sergent, 5.52. " wife of, killed, 552. Directory, Annual, .558. Disciples of Christ, 570 ; Elders of, 570. Disorderly Bea.sts, Pound for, 556. Dollar of our Fathers. Depreciated, 586. Doolittle, Ephiaim, 576. Drafted Men, 598. Drawing in Schools, 614. D. Shattuck's Hovel, 552. Duties on Paper, Tea, &c., 577. E. Earlo, Edward, 638. " Pliny, 662. Ecclesiastical Council, 564. Education, 606. Enimctt Guards, 589-90; Officers of, 589-90. English and Scotch Societies, 656. " Goods not to be purchased, 579. Envelopes, Makers of, 663. Episcopal Church, 569. " All Saints, 569. " enlarged, 569. " New, 569. " Rectors of, 569. Excise on Wines and Spii-its, 576. F. Fall of Richmond caused Joy, 600. Fifth Battery, 641. Fifteentb Regiment, 591-9. Fifty-first " .597. Fifty-seventh " 597 Fire-Arms, 667. Fire Department, 599, 647-9. " Insurauie Companies, 653. 706 INDEX. Fire Society, 648. First Heavy Artillery, 597. Fitchburg, 554. Fitton, James, 569. Flagg, Benjamin, 583. " Samuel, 554. Floating Bridge, 561. Foreign Goods Discarded, 577. Fort William Henry, 5T5. Fourth Heavy Artillery, 597. Fourth of July Celebration in 1865, 600-1. Freemasons, 555. Free -Soil Party, 555. lYench and Indian Wars, 554. " Catholics, 569. " Fleet, 575. Friends, Society of, 570. Furnaces, 563. Q. Gage, General, 583. Gardner, Andrew, 564. G. A. R. Post, 641. Garrison Houses, 551. Gas Works, 654. Geueral Court, 549, 550-52. German Organizations, 656. Gigantic Rebellion, 588. Gilbert Loom Company, 665. Gleason, Benjamin, 574. Goodrich, Charles A., 566. Going, Jonathan, 568. Gooldn, Daniel, 550-2. Goose, Effigy of, 561. Gould, George H., 571. Government of Laws, 576. Grace Church, 572. Granite for Paving, 559. " light-colored, 564. Grammar (Latiu) School, 610. School, 609. Gravestones, 556. Green, John, 622. " William, 622-3. Grist-Mill, 562. Gront, John W., killed, 591. Grove and Lincoln streets, 551. H. Hale, Edward Everett, 571. Hamilton, Chas. A., 559. ••■ " " City Clerk, 559. Harrington, Timothy, 567. Harris, Clarendon, 558. Haven, S. Foster, Jr., killed, 591. Heavy Artillery, 640. Henchman, Daniel, 618. Hersey, Chas., 548. Henchman Street, 548. Heywood, Daniel, 574. " " pursuing Indians, 574. Hibernian Guards, 656. High School-house (new), 612. Hill, Alouzo, 567. Hills of Worcester, 560. History of Worcester, 548. Hitchcock, Prof., 560. Hoar, Geo. F., 634. " " (speech of), 591. Home for Old Men, 651. " " Women, 651. Hull, A. B., 566. Huntington, Wm. R., 569. I. Illumination of City, 600. Incorporation of City, 559. Incursions of French, 573. Independence declared, 584. Indians in woods, .573. " People in fear of, 573. " Teas not to be used, 579. Indian Neighbors, 573. Insane Retreat (private), 650-1. Insurance Firo Patrol, 648. Insurgents in Worcester dislodged, 586. Instructions to Capt. Bigelow, — copy of, 582. " to Joshua Bigelow, 576-9. Irish Laborers, 569. " and German Companies, 593. " Associations, 656. " Families, 553. Iron Foundries, 659. Iron-working Machinery, 664. Island District, 562. J. Jaques, Geo., 649. . Jillson, CLark, 638. Jo Bill Road, 548. Jones, Geo. (City Marshal), 559. Journey to Canada, 552. Junction Foundry Co., 659. K. Kettle Brook, 562. King Philip, 551. " Philip's War, 573. Knights and Ladies of Honor, 656. " of Honor, 655-6. Knowles Steam Pumps, 665. Knowlton, John S. C, 635. Labrador Tea, 577. Ladies, patriotic, 577. INDEX. 707 Lafayette's Reception, 588. Lamson, Chas. M., 571. Landscape, diversity of, 559. Lasts, shoe, 667. Latin Grammar School, 610. " " " opposed, 577. League and Covenant, solemn, 579. Leather Belting, 666. Libraries, 641-4. Library, Green, 642. " Historical Society, 644. " Mechanics' Association, 643. " Society of Antiquity, 644. " Social, 641. " Worcester Lyceum, 642. Life Insurance Company, 654. Light Infantry, 6-10. " " march through Baltimore, 589. " " OfiBcers of, 589. " " ordered to march, 589. Lincoln, Daniel W., 636. " D. Waldo, ,549. " Gov. Levi, 623. " Levi, 1st, 623. " Levi, 559. " Square, 553. " Street, 548. " WiUiam, 548, 563. Location of Mechanic Street, 557. Long Pastorate of Dr. Bancroft, 567. Looms, 665. Loyalists, Copy of protest, 581. " forever banished, 585. " or Tories, 577. " protest of, .580. " under watch, 583. Lovell, Albert A., 548. Lynde Brook, 562. M. Maccarty, Thaddens, 565-583. Main Street, Paving of, .559. Malt House, 557. Manufactures, Great variety, 658. • " Names of, 656-660. Jl.aranding Ruffians, Guarded against, 599. Marlborough, .548. Masonic Lodges, 655. Massachusetts Spy, 584. McFarland, Daniel, 575. McFarland. Warren, 659. Mears. D. O., 571. Mechanics' Association, 643. Meeting-house, Destroyed, 553. Memorial Hospital, 051. Merrick Pliny, 559, 633-4. Morrill, J. H., 569. Merriman, Daniel, 569. Metallic Reeds, 666. Metals, Sparkling, 563. Methodist Episcopal Pastors, 569. " Society, Second, 571. Military Companies, 587-8, 640. " " Heavy Artillery. 640. " " City Gnards, (HI, " " Continentals, 041. " " Fifth Battery. 641. " " Guards, (140. " " Harrison Guards, 641. " " Light Infantry, 640. " '• Rifle Corps, 640. " Spirit in 1798, 587. Miller, Henry W. 558. '• Rodney A., 559, 566. MjU-brook, 557, 561. " sites at Quinsigaraoud Village, 657. Ministerial Lands, 557. Minute-men, Company of, 582. " march of, 583. Mission Chapel Socii^ty, 571. Moen Philip L., 660. Morse, Augustus, ,51)2. Mourning at Death of President Lincoln, 600. N. National .^Igis, .558. New Worcester, 562. Nipintiek Tribes, 551. North End Baptist Mission, 572. North Pond, 562. Notre Dame Church (Catholic), 572. " Sisters of, 572. NoTvell, Increase, 549. Nowell's Right, 549. Nowland, Wm. ,T., ,558. Noyes, Ensign Thomas, 549. Number of Men in Revolution, 586. O. 01)lig.^tion to bo Armed, .579. Obliterating a Record, 580. Odd Fellows Lodges, C55. Old Indian Fort, ,551. " Men's Homo, 651. " Parish. Resisted separation, 567. " Pound and Hearse House, 557. " South Church, 554-5. Oliver Peter, Chief Justice, 579. " " to be impeached, 579. Oread Institute. 564. Organ Companies, 666. Packachoag Hill, 552-3. Paine, Nathaniel, 548, 580. 708 INDEX. Paines's Brook, 561. Paine, Timothy, 581, 619. " " Compelled to read his resigna- tion, 582. Paper machinery, 659. Parish Church, 555. Patriotic Assembly on the Green, 584. Patriotism stronger than Tea, 578. Peat metal, 563. Pepperell, AVilliam, 574. Personal Estate, 1879, 559. Petition of Gershom Eice, 573-4. Phillips, Geo. W., 571. Pickering, George, 569. Piedmont Church, 571. Plows and Mowing Machines, 660. Plymouth Church, 571. Police Department, 650. Polls in 1879, 559. Poor Farm, 650. Population, and Increase of, 553, 558-9. Potash AVorks, 6.57. Potatoes brought to Worcester, 553. Pound, 556. Power, J. J., 572. Pratt, Chas. B., 638-9. " Sumner, ,572. Preaching on Common by Whitefield, 56.5. Primeau, J. B., 572. Prisoners of War in Worcester Jail, .583. Privations in the Revolution, 586. Putnam, James, 575, 581, 624-5. Q. Queen Anne's War, .573. Quinsigamond Lake, 548, 561, 563. R. Railroads, 614-18. Railroad, Boston, Barre and Gardner, 617. " '• and Worcester, 614-15. " Nashua, 563. " Norwich and Worcester, 616. " Providence and Worcester, 616. " Western, 615-16. " Worcester and Nashua, 617. " " and Shrewsbury, 617. " Horse, 617-18. Ramshorn Brook, 562. Ready-made Clothing, 6G7. Report of Committee, 550. Reservoir carried away, 646-7. Re-settlement of the Town, 552. Retreat for the Insane, Private, 550-1. Return of Peace Celebrated, 586. Revolution, War of, 576. Bice, Gershom, 553. Rice, Jonas, 552. " Wm. W., 636. Richardson, Geo. W., 635. " Manufacturing Company, 660. " Rev. Merrill, 571. Rifle Corps, 640. Eights of the Indians, 550. Roll of Honor, 602. Route through Worcester, 548. Royalists, Defeated by Whigs, 579. " Protests of, .579. " Retired to Holdeu, 582. " to be impeached, 579. S. Safe Deposit and Trust Company, 652. Sagatapscott Hill, 5.52. Salem Street Church, 571. Salisbury, Madame, 628. " Pond, 561. " Stephen, 627. Sawyer, Joseph, 552. School Children, annual address to, 611. " " number of, 613. " Committee, first, 607. Dame, 607. " House, 556-608. " Houses, number of, 613. " Masters, iirst, 606-7. " System, Committee upon, 608. Schools, 606-614. " apiJropriation for in 1781, 609. " Classical and English High, 611. " " " " teachers of, 612. " Cost of, 613-14. " in 1848, GU. " Overseers of, 610. " Private, excellent, 613. Scotch-Irish Presbyterians, 553. Seats in Church according to rank, 565. Second Adventists, 570. " Regiment Heavy Artillery, 597. " " " officers of, 597. Serjent Farm, 552. Selectmen, iirst names of, 553. Shii)pen, Rev. Rush R., 571. Slavery, opijosition to, 577. Social Library, 641. Soci^td St. Jean Baptiste, 656. Society of Antiquity, 644. " " Friends, 570. " " " accepted Ministers of, 570. " " " Meeting-House of, 570. Soldiers' Monument, addresses by Gov. Bullock and Gen. Devens, 602. " " Cost of, 602. 1 INDEX. 709 Soldiers' Monmneut Dedicated, 602. " " Erected, 601. . " " Inscription upon, 002. " at Quebec, 583. " in last French and Indian War, 575. " 1776, 583. " of Worcester at Hoosick, 574. " petitioned for, .')73. Solemn Leagno and Covenant, 579. South Ledge, 564. " Worcester, 562, 572. Sprague, Col. A. B. E.,597. Stage Routes, 558. St. Ann's Church (Catholic), 572. St. John's, " " 569. St. Matthew's Chapel (Episcopal), .572. St. " " " rectors of, 572. St. Paul's Church (Catholic), .->72. Stamj) Act, 576. State Constitution rejected, 585. " Conventions, 555. " Guard, The, 599. " Lunatic Hospital, 650. " Mutual Life Assurance Company, 654. " Street Massacre, 578. Steam-Eugines and Boilers, 606. Stirring Events in Boston, 578. Superior Court, Sessions prevented, 578. Tannery, 657. Tatnuck, 550. " Brook, 562. Temperance Lodges and Divisions, 655. " Ticket, 559. Thayer, Adin, 634. Theology, Strict, 566. Tliicf Directing Association, 654. Tliinl liuttaliou left for the Field, 590. Thirty-Fouith Reg't, 594. " " " Flag presented to, 595. " " " History of, l>y Gen. Liucohi, 594. " " ■• Officers of. 595. •' •' •• " and men killed, .595. Thirty-.Sixth Reg't, Campaigns of, 595. " " " Officers of, 595. Three months' men re-enlisted, 590. Thomas, Isaiah, 628-31-33. To Arras, To Arms, 583. Toasts in 1776,584-5. Toll Gate, .561. Town and Parish identified, 564. Town Hall, 554. " Meeting, 1st, 553. " Officers, 553. Training Place, 556. Trinitarians, 567. Trinty Church. (Meth.), 569. Twenty-Fifth Reg't, 593. " " " Officers of, .593. " " " and men killed, 594. Twenty-First Reg't, 5t>2. " " " Services and losses, 593. Tyi)ographical Union, 050. U. Union Church, 570. " " Pastors of, 570-1. " League, 599. " Water Metre Co., 667. Unitarian Denominations, 567. " Views, 507. Universalist Society, 570 Upton, Edwin, 593. Valley of Worcester, 5G0-1. Vcrry, Geo. F., 638. W. Waldo, Cornelius, 557. " Daniel, 568, 628, 660. Wall, Caleb A., 548. Ward, Geo. H., 591. War of the Revolution, 576. " of lf^l2, 587. " of the Rebellion, 589. " with Mexico, 184.'>-7, 588. Washburn and Moen Manufacturing Com- pany, 561. Washburn, Emory, 626. lehabod, 571, 660-1. " Iron Company, 659. Washington's Reception, 587. Water Power, trebled, 657. " Works, 644-7. Weasel Brook, 561. Webster Square Church, 572. Whitefield, George, 565. While, Thomas, 565. Wilder, Joseph, 554. Wilson, Henry, 555. " James, 568. Wing, John, 562. Wire Comjjany, 661-2. " Varieties of, 661. Woodward, Samuel B., 626-7. Wood-working Machinery, 663-4. Woonaskochu Sagamore, 550. Worcester, (Wegera-ceaster), 551. " Coal Co., 563, 710 INDEX. Worcester Depot, Jluiiitions of War, 582. Tu the CivU War, 598. Ladies ever active, 598. Lyceum Library, 642. Men in the Navy, 598. opposed to Shays, 587. Railway Co., 563. Red Letter Day, 584. Shire Town, 554. Soldiers' Relief Commission, 598. « Rest, 598. Worcester, SpLiit of the People during the Civil War, 598. " Village Directory, 558. " " " in 1829, 55S " " Register, 557. Y. Young Men's Christian Association, 634-5. Young Men Moving in, 554. Z. Zion'a Church, 571. > % ^' .\V ^^ ■■^A, -'d-^^^ <^ '"°\^.-^:^-, -^ -p^ v" % ,^\^' c^-^^. % .\ "^v. V^' .^-^ ■'^^ ■'^^.^ -<^'^ cy -^ '^^ cy o 0^ ,^:^^•^ A-^' , ^"S' -^:. .'\ 1 ^ V