Class Book GopyrightN^ CORfRIGHT DEPOSIT TALE OF A DEDHAM TAVERN Bar] - r^^ ^ . ■ /^-.2-si i^zs r::^^ j^_j^ {,-;.--.««.«» y — .-..>« TALE OF A T>ET>HAM TAFEKN History of THE NORFOLK HOTEL Dedham^ Massachusetts BY WALTER AUSTIN $* CAMBRIDGE fjritoatelp printeJ at X\z Eiijcrsine press MCMXII .J)3Af COPYRIGHT, I9I2, BY WALTER AUSTIN ALL RIGHTS RESERVED y PREFACE IN collecting the subject-matter for this story of a Tavern in Dedham, Massachusetts, I have availed myself largely of the material and facilities afforded by the Dedham Historical Society, Including the newspapers of Dedham be- ginning with the Columbian Minerva and continu- ing in an almost unbroken series to the present day, the Diaries of Nathaniel Ames, William Ames, and Herman Mann, and the books and records of various societies, clubs, and other Dedham organiz- ations. I am also Indebted to many of the resid- ents of Dedham for much information In regard to the facts within these pages. It is a pleasure to record my obligation to these people, and es- pecially to Miss Edna F. Calde-r and Julius H. Tuttle, Esq.; also to my cousin, G. Howard May- nadier, for many valuable suggestions. I also thank the Dedham Transcript for allowing me to quote freely from its files. W. A. CONTENTS I. Introduction i II. Martin Marsh, Landlord, 1801-1818 6 III. Moses Gragg and Francis Jlden, Landlords, 1818-1821 27 IV. Moses Gragg, Landlord, 1 821-1828 38 V. Francis Alden, Landlord, 1 828-1 840 57 VI. Martin Bates and Others, Landlords, 1840- 1866 114 VII. Saint Mary's School and Asylum, 1 866-1 905 159 VIII. Charles H. Gifordy 1905- 19 10 169 Appendix A 175 " The Passing of Lafayette'* Appendix B 1 81 Index 187 ILLUSTRATIONS The Original Tavern Frontispiece ^ Martin Marsh 6'^'^ Francis Alden 27^ Moses Gragg 38^ Elephant 44^ The Court House, dedicated 1827 52 - The Tavern, 1829 57 ' Advertisement of the Norfolk Hotel, i 831 62- A Dedham Stage Coach 6s'' The Ballroom 69^ Martin Bates 114" Masonic Notice 1 27 ^ Poster of the Society in Dedham for Apprehending Horse Thieves, 1843 150 The Norfolk Hotel, 1866-1905 159*^ The Ballroom, 1905 167^ The House to-day. North and South I views 169^ The Hall 171' TALE OF A T>ET>HAM TAVE'RN THE NORFOLK HOTEL Introduction IN the colonial days in New England the tavern, inn, or ordinary, as it was variously called, was one of the most prominent institutions in the community. Much news emanated from the tav- ern, brought by the traveller from his last stopping- place. Town-meetings and sittings of the court were at times held here. In the cold winters the comfortable fire and the other attractions, which could only be found here, were appreciated and en- joyed ; so that the tavern became a favorite meeting- place for the men of the settlement, holding very much the same position, as a rendezvous for the townspeople, as the post-office of our small New England towns of to-day. Our New England tav- erns held this prominent place in the community down to the time of the introduction of the steam railroad and the telegraph. The keeper of the tavern was often an important person in the town, the best-known, the most popu- lar, and perhaps the most picturesque and cheer- ful. He was usually informed on all public matters, [ I ] A Dedham Tavern — and private matters as well, and enjoyed the con- fidence of all who partook of his hospitality. He almost always held some public office. Speaking of the tavern keeper, James Fenimore Cooper says: ^ "The innkeeper of Old England and the inn- keeper of New England form the very extremes of their class. The former is obsequious to the rich; the other unmoved and often apparently cold. The first seems to calculate at a glance the amouat of profit you are likely to leave behind you, while his opposite appears to calculate only in what manner he can most contribute to your comfort without materially impairing his own. . . . He is often a magistrate, the chief of a battalion of militia or even a member of a state legislature. He is almost always a man of character, for it is difficult for any other to obtain a license to exercise the calling." The four principal landlords of the Norfolk Hotel, or Norfolk House, the subject of this "Tale, " were all prominent and influential citizens of Dedham. Dedham, being on the direct road from Boston to Providence, New York, and points farther south, had its full quota of taverns. The earliest tavern we have evidence of was Michael Powell's, who was licensed in 1646. The exact location of his tavern or ordinary, which must have been a very humble affair, has not been determined. ^ Notions of the Americans, 1828, accredited to Cooper. See Stage-Coach and Tavern Days, by Alice M. Earle. [ 2] Introduction Then there was Woodward's Tavern, " the birth- place of the American Revolution," which stood near High Street, on the easterly side of the old road from the "Keye" on Charles River. This tavern was licensed to Joshua Fisher in 1658, who was later succeeded by his son. About 1735, Dr. Nathaniel Ames, Senior, the Almanac-maker, be- came landlord of the tavern, and his son, Fisher Ames, the distinguished Dedham statesman, was born here. Shortly before the Revolution, Richard Woodward succeeded him and the house was af- terwards known as "Woodward's Tavern." Here in September, 1774, met the famous Suffolk Con- vention where was chosen the Committee that drafted the first resolutions in favor of armed re- sistance to Great Britain, if necessary. Many dis- tinguished patriots have sat within its walls. This historic tavern was torn down in 1817.^ The site of the Phoenix House, corner of High and Washington streets, at one time the finest hotel in Norfolk County, and unfortunately de- stroyed by fire in 1880, was first occupied by a tav- ern the latter part of the eighteenth century. The house at various times was known as "Smith's Tavern," "Gay's," the "Dedham Hotel," "Pol- ley's," "Alden's," and "Bride's." The original building was destroyed by fire in 1832, and the new house arising from the ashes of its predecessor was ^ See The Colonial Tavern, by Edward Field, Also Stage-Coach and Tavern Days, by Earle. [3 ] A Dedham 'Tavern called the "Phoenix"; some of its landlords were James Bride, David Kingman, Adam H. White, Theodore T. Kimball, James Clark, John Tilton, Josiah D. Howe, and James Eaton. Two other well-known taverns in Dedham were Gay's Tavern, on Court Street, near Highland Street, and Howe's Tavern, on Court Street, near Church Street. The Norfolk Hotel, or Norfolk House, on Court Street, was the last of the old taverns. There were others in Dedham, but those mentioned above were the most prominent in the town as it exists to-day. It is to be noted that this tavern has been called the "Norfolk Hotel" or "Norfolk House." It was called by the former name until about 1850, and afterwards by the latter. It will be referred to here as the "Norfolk Hotel," as that was the name given it in 1 81 8 by its landlords, Gragg and Alden. But it has also been referred to as "Marsh's," "Gragg and Alden's," "Gragg's," "Alden's," "Bates's," "Haseltine's," "Mclntire's," etc.; for most tav- erns in the old days were called either by their established name or that of the individual or indi- viduals who happened to be landlord at the time. The subject of this "Tale" stands on the quad- rangle (comprising about five acres), now bounded by High Street, Court Street, Village Avenue, and Bullard Street, which was a portion of the original grant or apportionment of 1636 to "Ezechiell" Holliman, "a man of gifts and piety." By way of [41 Introduction explanation I will state that the land comprising the town was originally granted by the General Court to a fewproprietors,who apportioned the lots to such individuals as were admitted into "Our Society," and who subscribed their names to the Covenant. These grants were first made during the year 1636.^ The grant to Holllman reads: "Ezechiell Holliman twelve Acres more or lesse as lyeth betweene the way leading from the keye to the Pond towards the East, & Nicholas Phillips towards y^ West & the waye leading to y* bury- ing place towards y^ South, the high Street through the same." Holliman conveyed all his land the following year to Joseph Kingsbury, who in 1638 conveyed to the town, "for a seat for a publique Meetinge house," one acre on High Street of the quadrangle referred to, and this is the lot upon which the First Church in Dedham now stands. Kingsbury also conveyed three acres of the quadrangle to John Phillips, re- taining the balance of the same; and in 1641 both conveyed their entire interests in the quadrangle to the church, which held an almost unencumbered title to the whole until 1801, when Martin Marsh bought, or rather leased, the land upon which he built his tavern, later to be known as the "Nor- folk Hotel." 2 ^ See Plan oj Dedham Village, Massachusetts, 1636-1876, published by the Dedham Historical Society. 2 See Appendix; Report of Examiner, Land Registration Court, Boston. 5 ] II Martin Marsh, Landlord, 1801-1818 MARTIN MARSH was for many years one of the most active and respected citizens in Dedham and he filled many offices of trust and responsibility. He was born in Hingham in 1777 and died at Dedham, July 26, 1865, at the age of eighty-eight. At the time of his death the Dedham, Gazette, August 5, 1865, published this obituary notice of him: — "Deacon Martin Marsh died in Dedham on the 26th ult., in the eighty-ninth year of his age, leav- ing a widow with whom he had lived in the married state sixty-six years. He was born in Hingham and came here, on completing his majority, to commence life on his own responsibility. His thorough ac- quaintance with his business, his punctuality and fidelity to engagements soon won him the confi- dence of the community, and for many years he was busily at work in this and neighboring towns. His clear mind, honesty and integrity gave value to his opinions and services, and led him to be much occupied in public duties in varied departments. For thirty-six years he was Chairman of the Board of Overseers of the House of Correction; was re- peatedly reelected a Director and Treasurer of the Norfolk Insurance Company, and was a watchful guardian of the interests of our Savings Institu- [6] MARTIN MARSH Martin Marsh tion. Greatly respected by his fellow citizens, he was employed in town and parish affairs, was Se- lectman several successive years, and as Deacon of the First Church for a long period managed their large funds with admirable discretion. By indus- try and economy he acquired ample property. He was public-spirited; at all times ready to aid in whatever might contribute to the improvement of society. Though friendly to social progress he was conservative in his opinions, and was an earnest advocate of obedience to law and the sacred pre- servation of the institutions handed down to us from the fathers. Of quiet, unassuming manners, he rendered all honor to the claims of others, while he modestly concealed his own. His days were prolonged to an unusual length, but the in- firmities of age neither lessened his sympathy for others nor weakened his interest in persons and events. His life was a beautiful illustration of how much a man may do for himself and others by making Christian morals his rule of action. As he approached the end of his pilgrimage, he was sus- tained by a well-grounded hope that he should receive the approval of the Master — 'Well done, good and faithful servant. ' " He was connected with the Fire Department in 1802,^ and was a candidate for Representative to Washington in 1844.^ 1 Mann's Annals of Dedham, p. 1 14. * Norfolk Democrat, November 8, 1844. [7] A Dedham T'avern Early in the century the First Church in Dedham announced its desire to lease portions of its land for a long term of years, and we find this notice in the Columbian Minerva of January 6, 1801, the first newspaper publishedinDedham^ by Herman Mann, the elder: "A number of House Lots in Dedham will be leased for 999 years at public vendue on the prem- mises, on Monday the ninth day of February next at one of the clock, p.m., being laid out upon the land belonging to the Rev. Mr. Haven's Church near the Court House and Meeting House. The soil is good, the situation excellent for mechanics and such as wish to live retired in a pleasant village on the banks of the Charles River. "Jan. 6,1801 "Isaac Bullard, ^ Committee Fisher Ames, \ of the JosiAH Fisher, J Church.''^ Whatever the results of this notice, on June 15, 1 801, Joseph Whiting, Aaron Fuller, and Isaac Bullard, Deacons of the First Church in Dedham, "lease, set out and to farm let to Martin Marsh of Dedham, mason," the land upon which his tavern, later called the "Norfolk Hotel," was built, "dur- ing the term of 999 years from date hereof" at a yearly ground rental of thirty dollars. ^ In 1809, 1 First published in 1797. 2 Norfolk Reg. of Deeds, Book 58, p. 203. By the Revised Laws of Massachusetts, chap. 129, sec. i, land demised for the term of one [ 8 ] Martin Marsh the church leased to him on similar terms the ad- joining southerly parcel, which extended as far as the lot upon which the "General Nathaniel Guild House" stands now.^ Marsh built his house, which forms the original part of the Norfolk Hotel, in brick, probably in 1801 : "The first building erected on this estate for a hotel, and which forms a part of the present structure [Norfolk Hotel], was built in 1801 byMar- tin Marsh." ^ He was a mason by trade at this time, and for some years afterwards,^ and for a while at least his house apparently served the double purpose of a tavern and a mason's shop. At this time (1801) the only buildings of conse- quence on the First Church land which comprised the quadrangle before referred to, were the Meet- ing-House, the School-House built probably in 1753 replacing the first free public School-House in the country, erected in 1649, and the Court-House built in 1795 after Norfolk County was carved out of Suffolk County in 1793 and Dedham made the shire town. Besides these buildings, within a short radius of the Marsh lot, were Minister Haven's house; Woodward's Tavern, before referred to; the homes of Fisher Ames and his brother, Nathaniel hundred years or more shall be regarded as an estate in fee-simple. The conveyances in this book will be treated as if made in fee-simple. 1 Norfolk Reg. of Deeds, Book 58, p. 204. 2 Dedham Gazette, July 7, 1866. ^ Norfolk Reg. of Deeds, Book 58, p. 204, where his occupation is given. (91 A Dedham 'Tavern Ames; the Pitt's Head monument; the Old Epis- copal Church; Gay's and Howe's taverns; the Jail; the "Old Burial Place," which was set apart in 1638 "for the use of a public Buriall place for ye Towne forever"; the site of the camp in 1782 of our French allies in the Revolutionary War; and some distance farther away the "Old Powder House." Truly historic ground! The first allusion to Marsh's house, though not as a tavern, seems to be in the Columbian Minerva of March 8, 1803: "Wanted, an active, steady Lad, from 14 to 17 years old, as an Apprentice to the Mason Business. Apply to Martin Marsh, near the Court-House, Dedham, Feb. 28, 1803."! Lodges of Freemasons in America, following the custom in England, used to meet at taverns. Marsh's Tavern was for many years prominently identified with the Constellation Lodge of Free- masons. In the Columbian Minerva of October il, 1803, we find this notice in regard to the lodge: ^^ Masonic Installation. "The Constellation Lodge will be installed in ample form, on Wednesday, the 19th instant. A public Procession will be formed. Ceremonies will be in the Meeting House, First Parish, and com- 1 See also issues for March 15, 1803, March 22, 1803, March 29, 1803, April S, 1803, April 12, 1803. [ 10] Martin Marsh mence at twelve o'clock. Dinner will be provided at Brother Druce's, at half past two o'clock. Tick- ets may be had of the Stewards, at Brother Marsh's: " By order of the R. W. Master, "Isaac Whiting, Sec'y.'' "Oct. 10, A. L. S803." On the appointed day Constellation Lodge was constituted, and its officers installed in due form, by the Grand Lodge of Massachusetts. The so- lemnities were performed in the Rev. Mr. Bates's meeting-house, and gave much satisfaction to a very numerous, respectable and decorous assembly. ^ Martin Marsh and his successors, Francis Alden and Moses Gragg, were prominent Freemasons, and here in Marsh's Tavern for some years prior to the dedication of the Masonic Hall in 1829 were held meetings of the old Constellation Lodge, where prominent men of Dedham were raised to the sub- lime degree of Master Masons; and here in the dining-room of this tavern many Masonic ban- quets were given. The year 1804 marks the completion of the Nor- folk and Bristol Turnpike. Court Street formed a part of it and became still more a great thorough- fare for travel; and it is probable that about this time Marsh opened his house as a tavern in con- nection with his business as a mason. ^ ^ Columbian Minerva, October 25, 1803. * In "Receipts of the Treasurer of Norfolk County from the Clerk [ II ] A Dedham "Tavern The first mention of Marsh's house as a tavern seems to be in the Diary of Dr. Nathaniel Ames, the younger, a native of Dedham, and a man of original personality coupled with strong passions and prejudices: August 12, 1805: "Wm. Smith, surities only, Tav. at Marsh's." The following entries in Ames's Diary referring to the tavern are also noted : January 9, 1809: "Married John Howe and Clarissa Burrill at Marsh's tavern." Fly leaf of 18 10: "Henry Marsh, son of Martin sundry times innocl'd with kine pox." April 19, 1810: "Stage coach every day thro' Dedham sets oflF from Boston at 4 a.m. reaches Hart- ford at 8 P.M. begins 23d., runs it in 16 hours, 100 m. little more than 6 m. an hour without stop — but relays every 10 miles!" The route passed by Marsh's Tavern. December i, 181 1: "Notified Gard. L. Chan- dler of meeting tomorrow of Ab' Rich'^^ C"^ at Marsh's." December 2, 181 1 (fly leaf): "All Ab' Richards C^ now grantees of his farm being notified to meet this day, only S. Richards Hez' Whiting Chestor Bullard and myself appeared, and appointed Ch' Bullard to examine and produce to next Monday of the Court of Common Pleas of the sums due by law on Licenses to Taverners," Martin Marsh is first mentioned as a Taverner "for the year past ending 1807," This book is owned by the Dedham Histori- cal Society. [12] Martin Marsh at 3 P.M. an Account of all the produce of the farm of season last in Ab. Richard's hand to meet at Marshes. But since learn that C. Haven has sued her mortgage and the next Monday only 2 ap- peared & adjourn'd to the next Monday when none appeared — so Ab"' Richards enjoys his Farm completely discharged of Debt except mortgages tho' sold & held by many grantees in title only for Partners cannot unite to assert their Rights. As the Sailor said, 'the Partnership was the worst Ship he ever sail'd in.'" March 4, 1812: "C. Com*^^ meet at Marsh's." April I, 1812: "A caucus or consult'n of Demos pretty full from all parts of town except So. Par. appoint committees from each squad to hunt out rep. voters and get them conveyance to poll, if lame or unable — at Marsh's Tavern." July 31, 1 81 2: "Consultn 29th of towns of Nor- folk agreed to hold Norfolk Consultn at Marsh's Dedham 3 Monday of Augt at 9 a.m. Thence to join Middlesex & Suffolk after, in Address to President. 1 1 towns rep at Boston met from Nor- folk." August 25,1812:" 2nd Conv'n at Marsh's agreed to support N. Ruggles for Congress." August 2, 1813: "Conv'n at Marsh's adj'd to i6th." February 2, 18 14: "Marsh began to run a Ded- ham stage in op. to Spencer Clarke's." March 10, 1814: "C. Conv'n at Marsh's." [ 13 ] A Dedham Tavern May 26, 1 8 14: "Engag'd at request of Dr. Richards, Marsh's stage to bring up chronicles." June 2, 1814:" Second Thursday Marsh's stage brings Endicot's J. Whiting J. Richards & J. Met- calf s Centinel." July 9, 1 8 14: "Got Patriot today by Dedham stage Marsh's." July 12, 1814: "Set Celeri plants hove away yes- terday, dried in sun at Marsh's yet grow but for want of attention many smother'd by earth roll'd in & buried them." Mar. 20, 1 81 5: "Convention of Repub. at Marsh's." June 30, 1 8 17: "Great parade to receive the Pres*** Monroe. Artillery arriv'd f r. upper towns in the morning. Crane's Division 1st of Militia ord'd out — cavalry to escort him fr S. boundary of Nor- folk to Boston. No! Only to Dedham, then, Presi- dent reviews the troops on the Great Common, near sunsetting — sleeps at Mr. Dowse's where many are attending — z^ July morning President walks from Dowse's to Polleys Tavern where I was the first introduc'd & shook hands with him vast many after kept him continually bowing untill Gen of division, that none offer to shake hands, but front & bow & pass by." From American Tracts^ 1812^ published same year: [ 14] Martin Marsh ^^ Norfolk Convention "Pursuant to previous notice, Republican Dele- gates from the several towns in the County of Nor- folk assembled at MarsWs Tavern, in Dedham, on the 17th inst. at 9 o'clock a.m. The Hon, Thomas B. Adams was chosen President and Erastus Worth- ington, Esq. Secretary of the Convention. A com- mittee was chosen to prepare an Address and Re- solutions, expressive of the opinion and sentiments of the meeting." The "Address and Resolutions" approved the War just declared against Great Britain. Same (1812): "Norfolk Nomination "To the Friends of Peace, Liberty and Com- merce within the District of Norfolk. "A number of Delegates of the Republicans from the several towns comprising the Norfolk District, who were desirous of changing the Congressional Representative, and of nominating a more suitable candidate than the present member to represent said District in Congress of the U. S. after the 4th of March next, having met at Mr. Marsh's Tavern in Dedham, the 25th. inst. agreeably to previous notice in the Boston Patriot and Independent Chronicle, after having chosen Gen. Geo. Ellis, President, and John S. Williams Esq., Secretary, [ IS] A Dedham Tavern they unanimously agreed upon Nathaniel Ruggles Esq. of Roxbury as the most suitable person; and now beg leave publicly to nominate and recommend him to their fellow citizens throughout said Dis- trict, as the most suitable person to represent said District in the next Congress and In whose pa- triotism, fidelity and unblemished integrity, we have the highest confidence." It will thus be noticed that the Tavern early became a centre for political meetings, a distinc- tion which lasted beyond the middle of the century. The period from the beginning of the nineteenth century to the end of the War of 1812 was one of heated and violent political passions. Politics di- vided families, churchgoers, and communities, and entered Into trials for murder,^ and even the con- duct of funerals. Nathaniel Ames refused to at- tend the funeral of his brother, Fisher Ames, be- cause the Federalists had charge of the burial. ^ Marsh's Tavern was early identified with The Society in Dedham for Apprehending Horse Thieves^ which Society for more than a hundred years has existed to the present day. Organized in 1810 as the "Detecting Society in Dedham," in 1814 it adopted the present name. The preamble to the old Constitution shows the purpose for which this Society was formed. ^ It reads: "The great number , ^ Thomas O. Self ridge Trial, 1806. 2 Nathaniel Ames's Diary, 1808. 3 Original Records in the Dedham Historical Society. [ 16] Martin Marsh of horses stolen from, amongst us and in our vi- cinity is truly alarming and calls for the attention of every well disposed citizen. It Is evident there has been, and probably will continue, a combina- tion of villains through the Northern States, to carry into effect this malignant design, and their frequent escape from the hand of justice stimulates them to that atrocious practice. And as that kind of property Is almost liable to be carried away out of our knowledge, it requires the utmost exertion of every good member of society to baffle and sup- press depredations of this kind, and in order more effectually to bring about this end, the following Articles are laid down." Sixteen articles follow and we find Martin Marsh's name among those of the subscribers. As there were no railroads, telephones, or telegraphs in those days to assist In running down horse thieves the necessity for this society at that time is apparent. At a meeting of the Inhabitants from different parts of Dedham, called June 4, 18 10, it was voted that the Constitution exhibited to said inhabitants for the organization of a "Detecting Society In Dedham" be adopted.^ At this meeting the fol- lowing officers were chosen: William Ellis, Clerk; Nathaniel Whiting, President; General George Ellis, Vice-President; Ellphalet Baker, Treasurer; Captain Ellphalet Thorp, John Endlcott, Joseph * Original Records of " The Detecting Society in Dedham"; in the Dedham Historical Society. [ 17 1 A Dedham "Tavern Swan, Jr., Captain Jeremiah Baker, John Morse, Josiah Daniells, Moses Gay, William Phipps, Committee of said Society; William Ellis, Jr., Cal- vin Guild, Major Abner Ellis, Paul Ellis, John Guild, Obed Baker, Reuben Morse, John Fisher, Jr., Jason Messenger, Riders for the Society. The First Annual Meeting of this Society was "holden at Martin Marsh's" October 29, 18 10, when it was voted "that the annual meetings be holden at Mr. Martin Marsh's on the last Monday in October at the time pointed out in the Consti- tution." 1 On October 31, 1 8 14, at the annual meeting "at Marsh's Inn," it was voted "that the title of this Society shall be The Society in Dedham for Appre- hending Horse Thieve s.'^^ ^ Annual meetings as well as special meetings of this Society were held at this Tavern from 18 10 until 1849, when they began to be held in the Phoenix Hotel. The clerks who issued the calls for the meetings were successively Jonathan H. Cobb, William Ellis, and John Bullard. Like most towns Dedham had its Engine Com- panies. In 1 801 the first fire engine, called "En- gine No. I," or the "Hero," was purchased by vol- untary subscription of individuals and presented 1 Original Records of "The Detecting Society in Dedham"; in the Dedham Historical Society. * Original Records of "The Detecting Society in Dedham"; in the Dedham Historical Society. [ 18 ] Martin Marsh to the town. The following year Engine No. 2, called the "Good Intent," was similarly presented to the town. These two fire engines were sufficient for the needs of the inhabitants until 1826, when the town acquired a third called the "Enterprise." In 1 83 1 5 at a special meeting of the town, a certain sum was appropriated for the purchase of more fire engines, and this appropriation had the effect of increasing the number from three to eleven, the two largest being called the "Niagara" and "Wa- ter Witch." These two together with the "Hero," "Good Intent," and "Enterprise," were all located in the First Parish. Each engine had its own com- pany of men attached to it and keen was the rivalry existing between the organizations. The Norfolk Hotel was often selected for the annual meetings and dinners of the different companies. In the re- cords of the "Enginemen of Engine No. i," now owned by the Dedham Historical Society, are these entries : January 2, 1809: "The Company met at Mr. Marshes . . . Votes to except the report of their auditors on Treasurer's accompts. . . . Then the company proseded to the Chois of their officers. Elipht Baker Jr. was chosen Clark, Treas. and Col- lector. Calvin Guild was chosen Captain. Jason Messenger ist Lieut. Jesse Clap 2nd. Lieut. Voted to pay Mr. Lebosquet & John Baker ^i. for clean- ing the engine. Voted to pay Mr. Hunnewell's bill for making short hose $3.*^." [ 19] A Dedham Tavern January i, 1810: "The company met at Mr. Marshes." Reelected officers. Ebenezer Hunne- well, Richard Webb, Nath'l Owens, Solomon Briggs, Jesse Clap, and James North, all absent, and fined twenty cents apiece. January 6, 181 1 : "Engine Company met at Mr. Marsh's." January 4, 1 81 2: "The Company met at Mr. Marsh's and partook of the supper provided." January 4, 1813: "The Company met at Mr. Marsh's & partook of the supper there provided." For nearly forty years the various Engine Com- panies of Dedham continued to have many of their meetings and anniversaries at the tavern. Mention of them will be made later. The Tavern was also a favorite resort of the Militia. The "Orderly Book of the Second Com- pany of Cavalry in the First Division of Massa- chusetts" ^ has these entries: September 24, 1810: "This day the Company of Light Dragoons commanded by Capt. Artemas Newell convened at Marsh's Tavern in Dedham for the purpose of military exercise." October 5,1812: "This day Capt. James Tisdale's Company of Light Dragoons met at Mr. Martin Marsh's Tavern in Dedham for the purpose of mili- tary exercise." There are similar entries in 1813 and 1814. The Norfolk Repository, published in Dedham by ^ In the Dedham Historical Society. [ 20 1 Martin Marsh Herman Mann, senior, and the successor of the Columbian Minerva^ has several references to Marsh's house: March 22, 1808: "To be let and entered upon the first of April next, a farm in Dedham, within one mile of the Court House. For further par- ticulars apply to Martin Marsh, near the Court House." April 27, 1809: "Jabez Chickering, Jr. has re- moved his office a few rods south of the Court House, adjoining Mr. Marsh's tavern." May 25, 1809: "Martin Marsh, near the Court House, Dedham, keeps constantly for sale Bricks, Tile, Lime, and Brads of all kinds." This notice is evidence that Marsh continued to be a mason as well as a taverner. November 2, 1809: A lost bundle is requested to be sent to Mr. Marsh's Tavern, in Dedham, and receive his own with the thanks of the owner. November 9, 1809: "The Annual Meeting of the Union Musical Society stands adjourned to meet at Mr. Marsh's Hall, on Wednesday the 15th in- stant. It is hoped a general attendance of the mem- bers will be given, as it is expected some interest- ing propositions will be made to the Society." The Dedham Gazette succeeded the Norfolk Re- pository. It was established by Jabez Chickering, with Theron Metcalf as editor. The following is an advertisement of the Dedham Stage, February 11, [21 ] A Dedham Tavern 1 8 14, which was started by Martin Marsh ^ and continued for many years: * ' Dedham Stage "Martin Marsh respectfully informs the public that he has commenced running a Stage from Ded- ham to Boston. The stage will start every day, Sunday excepted, from his tavern adjoining the Court House in Dedham, at 7 o'clock in the morn- ing in the summer, and at half past eight during the winter season, and puts up at Mr. Davenport's tavern,ElmSt.,formerlyWing's Lane, Boston. . . . Seats may be taken at Mr. Davenport's, Elm St., or at Mr. Boynton's, Sign of the Lamb, Newbury St., Boston and at Marsh's Tavern, Dedham. Fare each way 62I cents. "Neat and convenient carriages, fleet and gentle horses, civil and obliging drivers, will constantly be provided and every exertion made to accommo- date the public. Small bundles carried and errands punctually done for the usual price." The same issue also advertises his tavern: ''Welcomel^ Good Cheer! "The subscriber informs the public that he con- tinues to keep a Tavern in the brick house adjoin- ing the Court House in Dedham. He flatters him- * See also Nathaniel Ames's Diary, February 2, 1814, ante. [22] Martin Marsh self that his accommodations are such as will give general satisfaction to all who visit his house. He is constantly provided with the best provisions which the season affords, with pure Wines and good Spirits. He has a convenient stable, with a care- ful and obliging hostler. Every exertion shall be used to render the situation of Travellers and others who favor him with a call, easy and agreeable. ''^Parties of Pleasure are informed that he has a large and convenient Hall for Dancing. Martin Marsh." Twice again the same year does Marsh advertise his stage in the Dedham Gazette: June lo, 1814: ^^ Dedham Stage, Summer Establishment "The Dedham Stage, during the Summer season, will start from Mr. Marsh's Tavern in Dedham every morning at seven o'clock and put up at Davenport's tavern, Elm St., Boston. Starts from Boston at half past four in the afternoon, and re- turns to Mr. Marsh's in Dedham. . . . Letters, packages and small bundles carried as usual. Every exertion will be made to accomodate the public. " Martin Marsh 1 d ^ •. »> John Ellis ) ^ November 25, 1814: [23 ] A Dedham "Tavern "Dedham Stage, Removed "The stage which has formerly put up In Elm St., now puts up at Clark's Tavern, Brattle Square, Boston. During the winter it will start every day (except Sunday) from Marsh's Tavern in Dedham, at 8 o'clock A.M., and from Clark's Tavern in Boston at 3 o'clock P.M. John Ellis." The following references to the Tavern are found in the Dedham Gazette: January 21, 18 14: ^^ Lost. At or near the tavern of Mr. Marsh, a bundle containing nine pairs of worsted stockings." Reward offered. March 14, 1814: A notice to the members and stockholders of the Dedham Bank to meet at the house of "Martin Marsh, innholder," signed by Elijah Crane, Willard Gay, Samuel Haven, John Guild, Jabez Chickering, Horatio Townsend, Jere- miah Baker, and Martin Marsh. From this date until 1849 the annual and special meetings of the Dedham Bank were held in this Tavern, Jabez Chickering signing the notices as Cashier until about 1820 and E. Fisher, Jr., his successor, for the balance of the period. July 15, 1814: The Tax collector notifies certain citizens to pay their taxes "at Marsh's Inn." September 23, 1814: "Notice. The Friends of Peace and Commerce in Norfolk Congressional [24] Martin Marsh District are requested to meet at the house of Mar- tin Marsh October 3d. next at two o'clock p.m. to confer together respecting the choice of a Represen- tative to Congress, at the election in November next." December 12, 1817: " Public Sale. To be sold at public vendue at the house of Martin Marsh in Dedham, on Monday the 15th. instant at 2 p.m. the tools that have been used in building the Jail. . . . "Calvin Guild, Auctioneer ^ As early as 18 14 Marsh endeavored to dispose of his tavern, but it was not until 1818 that he was successful. Dedham Gazette, May 6, 18 14: ^^ A Good chance for a Tavern Keeper "For Sale. That large and convenient brick House, with stables and outhouses, now improved by the subscriber as a Tavern, adjoining the Court House in Dedham. The stand is one of the best in the County of Norfolk, and has a very great run of customers. As the present occupant intends to change his line of business, the premises will be sold, a great bargain to the purchaser. For par- ticulars inquire of the subscriber. "Martin Marsh." [25] A Dedham Tavern By this time Marsh's tavern had become one of the most popular taverns in the County. Its close proximity to the Court House brought it distin- guished patronage, and it had the honor of enter- taining and lodging many prominent jurists. Judges Thomas Dawes, Samuel Sewall, and Theophilus Parsons, and lawyers Samuel Dexter, Fisher Ames, and James Otis were among those who frequently attended Court in Dedham in the early days of the century and doubtless partook of Marsh's hospi- tality. ^^^ 1^^ FRANCIS ALDEN Ill Moses Gragg and Francis Alden, Landlords^ 1818-1821 JUNE 6, 1 81 8, Martin Marsh at last changed his line of business and conveyed his land on Court Street with all its buildings to Moses Gragg and Francis Alden for ^5000.^ Both of these men were of sturdy, old New England stock and commanded the respect of everybody. A short sketch of their lives is added later. They undertook to make their tavern a success. They called it for the first time the "Norfolk Hotel," and from this time to the middle of the century this tavern, together with the one at the corner of High and Washington streets, Dedham, later the Phoenix, became the principal and best- known public houses in that portion of Norfolk County. For the next thirty or forty years the Norfolk Hotel became a centre for all sorts of meet- ings and social gatherings. Gragg and Alden celebrated the birth of the new Norfolk Hotel with a grand dinner on the 4th of July, within less than a month of their joint owner- ship. The Dedham Gazette of July 10, 181 8, de- scribes the dinner and also mentions for the first time the tavern with its new name: 1 Norfolk Reg. of Deeds, Book 58, p. 203. [ 27 ] A Dedham l^avern ^^Anniversary "Until this year there has been no general notice of the Fourth of July by the Citizens of this town since 1812. On Saturday last a large number of our respectable citizens assembled at the Norfolk Hotel for the purpose of celebrating the anniver- sary of the birthday of our Independence. Hon. James Richardson presided at table, assisted by James Foord, Esq., as Vice-President. "A most elegant and sumptuous dinner was pre- pared by Messrs. Gragg and Alden, which did great honor to their taste, and which had never been equalled in any previous entertainment. Every- thing was harmonious and pleasant, and formed an agreeable contrast with the divisions and aliena- tions of former times. The following toasts were given : " The Day we celebrate — When the sons of the Republic assemble round the altar of patriotism to sacrifice to the memory of their Fathers. " The President oj the United States — Supported by the affections of the people he fears not the intrigues of any rival. " The Governor and Lieut. Governor — The Sword and Bible of the Commonwealth. " The Judiciary of the United States — The Priests that minister round the sacred ark of the Constitution. ^^ Agriculture J Commerce and Manufactures — [28 ] Moses Gragg and Francis Alden Like the Ohio, Illinois and Missouri, pouring their united streams in the mighty current of natural wealth and grandeur. "Civil and Religious Liberty — To be enjoyed only while the majority are without a persecuting spirit, and the minority without a factitious one. " The Memory of Washington. " The Memory of James Otis — The earliest and most efficient promoter of the spirit and measures which led to our Independence. " The late General Putnam — Whom no one dared to call a coward while he lived. "Henry Clay — The ambitious statesman of the West. We hope the potter hath not made him a vessel of dishonor. "Our relations with Spain — May not the pride of the Dons make them blood relations. " The Town of Dedham — Were not Ames and Dexter her children. " The Temple of our Liberties — May its sacred halls never be profaned by the intrusion of party spirit." Later in the year 1818 is the second reference to the house as the "Norfolk Hotel." ^ Nathaniel Ames refers to the Tavern as "Grag & Alden's" in his Diary, July 4, 181 8: "Capt. Bingham's Co. in new uniform make good parade. And Federal opp° get a contemptible minority at Grag & Alden's." * Dedham Gazette, October 2, 1818. (Dedham Bank meeting). [29] A Dedham Tavern We are indebted to the Diary of Herman Mann, the editor, and son of the Herman Mann referred to before, for much information relating to our Tavern. He was born in Walpole, Massachusetts, in 1795 and died at Dedham in 1851. His Diary ^ preserved in the Dedham Historical Society, and written between the years 18 19 and 1851, gives a valuable history of Dedham during that period. The following are some extracts from the Diary: December 6, 18 19: "At a meeting of the singers (of the First Parish) this evening at Gragg and Alden's, Edmund M. Richards was chosen Clerk, Capt. J. Fales, J. Chickering Esq., Wm. Fairbanks, Capt. P. Bingham and I. Whiting were chosen choristers for the ensuing year. J. Guild, P. How- ard and J. Chickering Esq. were requested to play on the viol. An invitation was received from the Abbey or opposition singers to join them in learn- ing pieces for the dedication of their meeting house; when it was voted that the singers act according to the dictates of their conscience with regard to sing- ing in the new meeting house at the dedication." The singers of the First Parish assembled several times afterwards at the Tavern.^ June 24, 1820: "S^ JohrCs Day. It was cele- brated in this town by Constellation Lodge, who were joined by a large number of the fraternity from neighboring towns; nearly 200 masons in the 1 H. Mann's Diary : January 19, 1820, March 15, 1820, April 7, 1820, November 27, 1820, February 7, 1821, December 10, 1821. [ 30] Moses Gragg and Francis Alden procession, besides a large number of 'fair sisters.' The whole, by invitation, were escorted by the Dedham Light Infantry. . . . The Infantry dined at Gragg & Alden's." Of this occasion the Village Register of June 30, 1820, says: "Agreeably to public notice the Festi- val of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist was celebrated In this town on Saturday last by Con- stellation Lodge. The Boston Encampment of Knights Templars, the Council of Royal Masters and St. Paul's Royal Arch Chapter, and a large number of brethren and companions attended in their due order and rank, and with their proper badges. The procession was formed at Mason's Hall, under the escort of the Dedham Light In- fantry, which had politely tendered their services to the fraternity on the interesting occasion. The procession proceeded to Mr. Marsh's ^ where it was joined by a large number of fair sisters, and then proceeded to the parish meeting house, where the services were performed, we do not hesitate to say in the most satisfactory manner, to a crowded audience. The Rev. Mr. Richardson's Sermon, showing the intimate connection between masonry and religion, did equal credit to his head and his heart. Mr. Knapp's Oration, conquering many of the popular objections to the fraternity, displayed the Ingenuity of the man of talents, the classical taste of the scholar, and the zeal of the philanthro- ^ "Gragg & Alden's" may be meant. [ 31 1 A Dedham Tavern pist. We have heard with pleasure, that these gentlemen have consented to let their productions be published by the lodge. "After the public exercises of the day, the pro- cession returned to Mr. Marsh's,^ where the ladies, the fraternity, a number of the clergy, the select- men of the town, the parish committee, and a num- ber of gentlemen of distinction partook of an ele- gant dinner. We have never witnessed a more splendid procession, or one distinguished by such order and decorum. In one word, everything dis- played elegance, taste and regularity." The following toasts were given: "The Day," "Our Country," "The Governor of the Common- wealth," "The Memory of Washington," "The Barque of Masonry," "The Opposers of Masonry," "The Clergy," and "The Ladies." After the cloth was removed, the following among other toasts were given: "Owr three late Presidents^ John Adams ^ Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe — Their names and their works shall be hallowed, while grass grows, or water runs. " The Female Sex — The best and handsomest piece of domestic furniture is a virtuous, an ami- able woman. ^^ Party Distinction — May he who boasts of better blood in his veins than that of his neighbors, be tied up to his own pedigree by his heels, till his 1 "Gragg & Alden's." [ 32] Moses Gragg and Francis Alden brains if he has any settle where they ought to be. ^^ John Quincy Adams — The North Star of the United States — to him we look with confidence. "0/J Maids — May they never suflFer from the neglect of old or young bachelors. ^^Fire — like a wife — good in its place, but when it gets the upper hand, the devil take it." In addition several other toasts were given. The Dedham Light Infantry, alluded to before, had their dinner the same day at "Gragg & Al- den's." The Village Register describes it: " The Dedham Light Infantry, commanded by Capt. Jesse Farrington, by invitation, formed a handsome military escort to the Masonic Proces- sion in this town, in the celebration of the nativity of St. John the Baptist, on the 24th. inst. Previous arrangements having been made the Company par- took of an excellent dinner at Gragg and Alden's Hotel. After which, amidst much harmony and conviviality, the following Toasts were drank: "S^. John's Day — If that celebrated Saint had a secret more valuable than the worship of one Su- preme Deity, universal benevolence to man and charity to all — that secret is worth knowing. ^'Massachusetts — Though its great Northern Limb is amputated from its original trunk, may it take deep root and flourish — and the fruits of both stock and branch continue mutually inter- changeable in the common market. [331 A Dedham "Tavern *^Dr. John Brooks — Governor of Massachusetts — may his prescriptions have the most salutary effect on all its citizens." The other toasts given were "The Arts and Sciences," "The Whole Fraternity of Masons," "The Citizens of Dedham," "The Tree of Lib- erty," "Demolition of the Inquisition," "The Sum- mer Solstice," "Kings, Tyrants, and Hereditary Knaves," "Piracy on the High Seas," "Peace and Plenty," and "The American Fair." The Village Register^ first published in 1820 by Asa Gowen, continued by Jonathan H. Cobb and Barnum Field, and later passing into the control of Herman and W. H. Mann, has various notices that show the importance of the Tavern: July 7, 1820: One Edward H. Robbins in a ''No- tice to Pensioners'^ states that "he shall attend at the house of Messrs Gragg and Alden, Dedham, and as long during the setting of the Court as he can be useful to his meretorious & suffering fellow citizens, who are to be the subject of judicial en- quiry, for the purpose of attaining justice, — and tenders them his services in aid of their claims, so far as same can be supported by law, free from charge or expectation of reward." July 14, 1820: ''Sheriff's Sale. Norfolk ss. Taken by virtue of writs and will be sold at Public Auction by consent [34] Moses Gragg and Francis Alden at the House of Gragg & Alden, Innholder at Dedham, on Monday next, 4 p.m., one bellows top chaise, & harness for same. John Baker, Jr., D. Sk'ff.''^ September 15, 1820: "On Monday last an American Eagle was seen perched upon a tall elm in front of Messrs Gragg and Alden's summer es- tablishment on the Island, about a half mile from the village. He was shot. He measured, when dead, 5 feet 6 inches from wing to wing." Gragg himself shot the eagle. ^ September 22, 1820: ^^ Stolen. Two silver tea spoons, marked with the letters, D.R.D. For par- ticulars inquire at Norfolk Hotel." October 27, 1820: Reference to Daniel Webster attending court in Dedham and Chief Justice Par- ker of the Supreme Bench presiding with Justices Thatcher, Jackson, and Putnam. Webster argued for the defendant in the well-known case of Baker et ah, Deacons of the First Church in Dedham, vs. Fales. This case decided that where a majority of the members of a Congregational Church separated from the majority of the parish, the members who remain, although a minority, constitute the church in such parish, and retain the rights and property belonging thereto.^ The Rev. Mr. Lamson was ordained minister ^ See also Mann's Diary, September 1 1, 1820. 2 16 Mass. Reports, 488. [ 35 ] A Dedham 'Tavern of the First Church, though there was considerable opposition to his settlement, and the case above cited finally closed the controversy. Moses Gragg made some interesting notes in connection with this case for the benefit of his children, which are now in possession of his daughter, Mrs. Caroline A.Richards. He writes: "In October, 1818, Mr. Lamson was ordained, and the ordaining Council met at our house [Nor- folk Hotel]. It was a large body being the minister and two laymen from each church. They had two days session before they got through, for there was great opposition to Mr. Lamson's settlement, but he was ordained minister of the First Parish in Dedham. This transaction gave us a large amount of business for we provided for the council and it brought us a large number of lookers on whom we had to provide for at the same time. This gave us quite a reputation for I think the council at the close of their deliberations passed a vote of thanks, saying they never had been so well provided for on any previous occasion of the kind, as at the present, by Gragg and Alden, the new and popular landlords. The settlement of Mr. Lamson divided the parish and led to a long and bitter litigation, and our house was the place for most all of the meetings, and there were many. "During the winter there were many dances and while the sleighing lasted we had as much business as we could attend to, for our house was the new [ 36] Aloses Gra^ and Francis Alden place for the sleigh-riders — the way the mulled wine ^ was disposed of was a caution. "The Courts were very fully attended and we had our share of the patronage." November i, 1821, Francis Alden conveyed his undivided half interest in the Norfolk Hotel, land, and outbuildings to his partner, Moses Gragg, and himself became landlord of the tavern which he named the "Dedham Hotel," ^ corner of High and Washington streets, then owned by Timothy Gay, and later the site of the Phoenix House. Here he remained landlord until 1828, when he returned to the Norfolk Hotel, buying out Gragg. The following is a notice of the dissolution of partnership published at the time: ''^Copartnership Dissolved ''Notice is hereby given that the copartnership heretofore existing under the firm of Gragg & Alden, is by mutual consent this day dissolved. Moses Gragg. Francis Alden. "The business in future will be conducted at the old stand of the Norfolk Hotel, by Moses Gragg. Nov. I, l82I."3 ^ The recipe is one quart Madeira, boiling hot, one half pint hot water, six eggs beaten light, sugar to taste. See Field's Colonial Taverns. * Village Register, January II, 1822. * Village Register, November 2, 1821. [37] IV Moses Gragg, Landlord, 1821-1828 MOSES GRAGG was born at Groton, Massachusetts, In 1791 and died in Cam- bridge, Massachusetts, In 1885. In 1817 he was commissioned Adjutant of the First Regi- ment Infantry, Massachusetts Volunteer Mllltla. After leaving the Norfolk Hotel In 1828 he, moved to Milton and later to Roxbury. He became a member of the Massachusetts House of Repre- sentatives, and In Roxbury held the position of Superintendent of Streets. He was also a member of the Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company. At the time of his decease he was the oldest pen- sioner of the War of 1 812-15 on the United States pension rolls In the Boston agency. Gragg made no material alterations or additions to his tavern as Francis Alden did afterwards, though he must have built himself a new tavern sign or had the old one repainted; for Mrs. Horace Bacon, daughter of Francis Alden, remembers that a bust of Washington was painted in the centre of the sign, with the words "Norfolk Hotel" across the top and the date "1822" underneath. This was the regular swinging tavern sign which the law required to be placed in front of every tav- ern in those days, and was attached to a sixty- foot flagstaff. I 38 ] MOSES GRAGG Moses Gragg The first reference to the Tavern under the sole management of Gragg is found in Mann's Diary under date of December lo, 1821: "Chorister Meeting. Annual meeting of the singers of the First Church and Parish, at Gragg's Hotel this evening. . . . The meeting closed according to ancient custom by singing Old Hundred ! " William Fairbanks was chosen President at the meeting. The Norfolk Hotel now became a popular place for all sorts of functions. The hall on the ground floor must have been well suited for dancing, for various classes for the instruction of that "polite accomplishment" now began to be held there and continued for many years. Later, when the ell containing the ballroom was added there was no finer floor in the County. The first reference to dances In that hall is In the Village Register, August 2, 1822 : " Summer Dancing School. Mr. Stimson respectfully informs the in- habitants of Dedham that his school for the in- struction of young Masters and Misses in the po- lite accomplishments of Dancing will commence Aug. 13th, at 2 P.M. at Mr. Gragg's Hall." The next spring the same gentleman announces a ^'Spring and Summer Dancing School" ^ at the same hall, and during the summer a Mr. Barber also opened a school for dancing there.^ Later in the year the Village Register, November Village Register, April i8, 1823. Village Register, July 25, 1823. [39] A Dedham T^avern 21, 1823, announces that "Mr. Withycombe from England proposes commencing a course of instruc- tion for the polite accomplishment of Dancing, on Dec. 1st, in Mr. Gragg's Hall. Great Attention will be paid to the deportment of the pupils to give an easy and graceful appearance in society." And in 1825 James Clark advertises a school for dancing at " Mr. Gragg's Hall. ... It is his intention of keeping an afternoon class for Masters and Misses, and an evening school for a Senior Class. His day school to commence at half past three p.m., his evening school at 6 o'clock. Terms, six dollars."^ Village Register, May 17, 1827: "Day school for the Instruction of young Ladies, Masters and Misses in Dancing. Mr. L. Stimson respectfully informs the inhabitants of Dedham that he proposes opening a school at Mr. Gragg's Hall. ... He will be happy to have his former scholars enter to practice Cotillions the last quar- ter, as they are the most fashionable dances of the present day. His time will not only be devoted to this, but particular attention will be paid to their manners and deportment." Besides dancing, Gragg's Hall seemed well adapted for singing: Village Register, April 18, 1823: "Mr. E. Shaw tenders his professional services to the young ladies ^ Fillagg Register, March 31, 1825. [40] Moses Gra^ and gentlemen of Dedham, ... A class to be formed to Instruct in the useful and agreeable ac- complishment of Singing; at Mr. Gragg's Hall." Mann's Diary ^ December i8, 1823: "Concert. Was much gratified this evening and the preceding with the musical performance of Mr. D. King, at Gragg's Hall. Mr. K's talents in sentimental songs are far above mediocrity; and his comic songs (dressed in character) kept the audience in con- tinued good humor." The Engine Companies have been mentioned be- fore. The following are references to the years 1823 and 1824, when they met at "Gragg's Hotel": Village Register, January 10, 1823: "The two Engine Companies on Monday last celebrated their annual anniversary. They partook of an excellent entertainment at Mr. Gragg's Hotel, and were honored with the company of a number of highly respectable guests. James Richardson, Esq. pre- sided." The next year, January 5, 1824, Mann describes their annual meeting in his Diary: "Annual meeting of the two Engine Companies. This meeting being the annual meeting of the two Engine Companies of this village, they united as usual, and celebrated their anniversary at Mr. Gragg's Hotel. A handsome entertainment was provided. The regular toasts were liberal and pa- triotic In sentiment. Rev. Mr. Boyle and Lamson were present, together with several other citizens. [41 ] A Dedham 'Tavern "The Court of Sessions are now convened in this place; and it being understood that they con- template erecting a contemptible ten foot building near the present Court House for the safe keeping of the County Records, etc. instead of building a handsome and commodious new Court house, as is most generally desired by the people, it has caused great dissatisfaction and discontent among the citi- zens. Being called upon for a toast this evening I gave the following: ^^ Public Spirit — May the respectable appear- ance of our public buildings convince sojourners that our citizens are neither mean nor parsimoni- ous. "The following was incorporated among the se- lect toasts. It alludes to the Caucus which it seems is about to be held by some of the members of Congress at Washington, for the purpose of nomin- ating a candidate for the Presidency, which is, at the present time, and it appears to me always ought to be, very unpopular: " The Presidential Caucus Engine — May it burst upon its first trial of strength, and scatter its foul waters on the heads of its framers." James Richardson, S. Noyes, W. Bullard, M. Richards, and E. Fisher, Jr., proposed toasts on this occasion.^ The following year the two Engine Companies of the village again celebrated their anniversary 1 Village Register, January 9, 1824. [42] Moses Gragg at the Norfolk Hotel where an elegant entertain- ment was provided. After the cloth was removed, a number of appropriate and spirited toasts were drunk, and the evening was passed with much hilarity.^ By 1828 the number of Engine Companies had increased to three, — the "Hero," the "Enter- prise," and the "Good Intent." Mann describes their anniversary that year in his Diary : ^ " Engine Anniversary. The three Engine Companies of this town held their anniversary this evening at Gragg's Hotel. An elegant supper was provided. J. Rich- ardson, Esq. presided, assisted by H. Mann. The evening passed with much harmony and hilarity. Rev. Messrs. Boyle, Lamson and White were pre- sent. Being called upon for a toast, I embodied the names of the three engines and roared out the fol- lowing: ^ The Vigilant Engineman — while in the performance of duty may he unite the courage of a Hero with the spirit of Enterprise, and may Good Intent be his motto.' As the evening advanced and the wine gradually disappeared I could not resist a second call and gave another." The members of the Engine Companies were able not only to point a hose, but a rifle as well, and many a Turkey Shoot did they and others attend in the vacant fields about Dedham. Thanksgiving was a favorite date for this amusement. There was 1 Village Register, January 6, 1825. * Mann's Diary, January 7, 1828. I 43] A Dedham T'avern always great fun at the taverns, where the losers paid for the suppers. Herman Mann in his Diary, Dec. 27, 1822, men- tions a Turkey Shoot "on Wigwam Plain, a little eastward of the pond." The sportsmen afterwards had their supper "at Gragg's Hotel." The old-fashioned Turkey Shoot is thus described by Mann: ^ "A number of the marksmen of this village met this morning with their rifles for the purpos,e of recreation as well as improving themselves in gun- nery. It was agreed to fire upon sides ; and two of the reputed best gunners were designated to choose. Twenty-six dead turkeys had been procured by the Company and every man was to fire ten shots. The turkeys hit were to be retained and divided among the party who won them. A piece of ground was selected and the turkeys set off about 30 rods. There were nine gunners upon each side and the turkeys were all hit before five rounds were com- pleted. Pieces of paper were then substituted and placed on a plank at the same distance. The party that hit the least number of marks were to defray the supper expenses of their opponents." In 1822 an extraordinary visitor at the Tavern was an Elephant. Whether the animal was exhibited in the house itself, as the advertisement reads, or, as is more likely, in the yard or possibly the stable, does not appear. The occasion was heralded by the ^ Mann's Diary, November 26, 1822. [44] VN EXIT! BIJ ION 1 t; '■(•en at l>L.|}ia;i., Tavern, \V1> .ll ' Mr. M Cragg IhisDiV Only, V\ie Learned ELF;Vl\i\.\-T, rh f(ir Sag..city and Docility, exceeds anv rver importrd into ihis country, wdl ^o :;Tii t '- r asioiiisliinp; perir.ormancts which dnnrition of every l)ct)oldcr. .,,'i.,i,^c i. 1 - Cents. Children half pric- ni>;iir;n Irom 9 oVIuck in the Mornin',', ur.- Evening. Ma\ Moses Gragg Village Register of May 24, 1822, as shown in the Illustration. The Norfolk Hotel played a part in the celebra- tion of Independence Day in 1822 and 1823: Village Register, June 21, 1S22 -/' Jttention : The patriotic citizens of Dedham and its vicinity, who are in favor of celebrating the glorious anniversary of American Independence are requested to meet at the Norfolk House this evening at 8 o'clock." At this meeting it was proposed by J. Chickering, Esq., to celebrate the 4th of July by forming an Agricultural Society on that day, and a committee was formed for that purpose. According to Mann ^ "this gave offense to many as it was construed into an attempt to divert the people from assembling to celebrate this era of our Independence by fixing their attention on this Society. However plausible a way this might be if such was the object of the projectors of it, I rejoice to say it did not suc- ceed." Mann's Diary, July 4, 1823: "July 4, 1823, was celebrated with the usual demonstration of joy. The dinner was provided by Mr. Gragg; the tables were spread on the grass plot adjoining the Meet- ing House. About 300 citizens partook. The toasts were many and patriotic, a band of music from Stoughton and the old cannon added to the cheers with which they were received by the Company. Hon. James Richardson presided and read the De- 1 Diary, July 4, 1822. [45I A Dedham "Tavern claratlon of Independence. A spirited oration by Horace Mann." Toasts given by Rev. Alvan Lamson, General Nathaniel Guild, Jonathan H. Cobb, William Ellis, John B. Derby, Alvan Fisher, John D. Fisher, Samuel Noyes, Dr. S. Bugby, Rev. Isaac Boyle, Rev. M. White and Charles C. Sewall.^ Horace Mann, referred to above, "for several years lived at the Norfolk House then kept by Capt. Alden." 2 The ^''Dedham Reading-Room^' had two meet- ings at "Gragg's Tavern" in 1823: Village Register, November 23, 1823: ^^ Dedham Reading Room. The subscribers to the Reading room are requested to meet this evening at Gragg's Tavern for the purpose of organizing and for the adoption of such measures as may be neces- sary to attain the objects of the Association. John W. Ames, James Richardson, Jeremy Stimson." Mann's Diary, December 2, 1823: "Attended a meeting of the members of the Reading Room at Mr. Gragg's. . . . The number of members at present is 36. J. W. Ames, Rev. A. Lamson and E. Fisher Jr., Standing Committee for the first year. E. Foord, Clerk and Treasurer." It is also likely that the Sabbath School of the First Church, organized in 18 16, had its sessions about this time in the Norfolk Hotel, probably 1 Village Register, July 12, 1823. * Dedham Historical Register, January, 1895, p. 17. [46] Moses Gra. 'SS immediately after the sale and pulling down of the brick school-house in 1823. LAFAYETTE The Nation's Guest, 1824 The most conspicuous visitor in Dedham during Gragg's landlordship was General Lafayette. He arrived in New York August 16, 1824, on the ship Cadmus from France, and was greeted by the citi- zens of that city and the other places he visited in the country during his triumphal progress as the Nation's guest, with the most lively and heartfelt demonstrations of joy and gratitude. He soon left New York for Boston by way of New Haven, Say- brook, New London, and Providence, passing through Dedham August 23 and arriving in Bos- ton the next day. "He was handsomely escorted the whole distance by the civil and military authori- ties. " ^ Josiah Quincy, the Governor's Aide-de- Camp, attended him while within the State. Mann's Annals of Dedham gives an excellent description of this visit to the town : "Aug. 23, 1824, arrival of the Nation's Guest. General Lafayette arrived here (Dedham) at half past ten o'clock in the evening, and stopped at Alden's Hotel. The loud and repeated cheerings from the assembled citizens, who had continued to collect through the day in expectation of his ar- ^ Mann's Diary, August 24, 1824. I 47] A Dedham 'Tavern rival, — the salute of the artillery, the ringing of bells, and the brilliant illumination of the houses in the village, gave some faint evidence of the satis- faction experienced by all on the arrival among us of this distinguished Revolutionary Chief, this friend of America in her time of need, and of lib- erty throughout the world. He tarried here but one hour, during which time hundreds of ladies and gentlemen had the gratification of shaking hands with the General; and had he tarried until morning the time would have been too short to gratify all who aspired to that honor. General Lafayette is a remarkably tall, majestic looking man, about sixty- eight years of age, and was dressed in a plain citi- zen's dress. He was accompanied by his son and one or two other French gentlemen of his house- hold. At half past eleven he entered his carriage, and was again greeted with the three times three cheers of the citizens, and was escorted by a caval- cade of about one hundred horsemen to the seat of Governor Eustis in Roxbury, where he spent the night. "August 24th, the town was nearly deserted by the inhabitants; old and young hastened to Boston to witness the reception of the Nation's Guest in that city. A cavalcade of two thousand mounted horsemen escorted the General from the seat of Gov. Eustis to the city line, where he was received by the Mayor and Aldermen, and escorted through the city by the light infantry companies of the me- [48] Moses Gragg tropolis, and accompanied by thousands of citizens on horses and in carriages, under the direction of marshals, to the common. The children of the pri- mary schools were here arranged in lines, through which the General passed. He was afterwards received at the State House by the State authori- ties, and partook of a public dinner attheExchange. Every street through which he passed was deco- rated with flags and triumphal arches — every building was filled with the beauty and taste of the city — every heart responded to the joyous 'Wel- come' which greeted the war worn veteran from every quarter. Similar manifestations of joy and gratitude were exhibited by the people in all parts of the Union which he visited. Such was the recep- tion awarded to the gallant Chief from a foreign land, who periled life and fortune in our behalf, and who, nearly a half century before, had borne so conspicuous a part in the great struggle of this country for Independence. Its sublime effect will not be lost upon the world." In "Mid-Century Memories of Dedham," by William Horatio Clarke, published in the Dedham Transcript, June 4, 1904, there is this reference to Lafayette's visit: "South of Temperance Hall on Court St. was the old hotel kept by Francis Alden.^ When the Nation's Guest [Lafayette] passed through the town Aug. 23, 1824, amid the ringing of the church bells, he stopped an hour at Alden's ^ In point of fact at this time, 1824, Moses Gragg was sole proprietor. [49] A Dedham Tavern hotel, during which time hundreds of ladies and gentlemen had the honor of shaking hands with him before he journeyed on to Boston." ^ There is some contention that Lafayette stopped at the Dedham Hotel, later Bride's, and not at the Norfolk Hotel. Samuel G. Bent, of Dedham, nine- ty-seven years of age at the time this "Tale" is written, relates that when he was a "young man" a famous general, whose name he had entirely for- gotten, stopped one evening at Bride's Hotel far an hour or so, and he had the honor with many others of shaking hands with him. This general may have been Lafayette; if so Bent must have been a young man, indeed, scarcely eight years of age. There is other evidence to substantiate Bent, if he referred to Lafayette ; there is also evidence to contradict him. However this may be, the descend- ants of Francis Alden have always understood that Lafayette honored the Norfolk Hotel with his presence; — Francis Alden himself is their au- thority.^ Some people have affirmed also that ffashington, the great friend of Lafayette, at one time visited the Norfolk Hotel. But as the corner-stone of the house was not laid until i8oi, and Washington died in 1799, it would seem that the Father of his Country could prove an alibi! 1 For another reference see the Village Register, August 26, 1824. * See Appendix A, "The Passing of Lafayette, a Romance of the Norfolk House." [ 50] Moses Gragg The laying of the corner-stone of the new Court- House in 1825, as well as the dedication in 1827, were notable events in Dedham and in the history of the Norfolk Hotel. The Village Register of June 16, 1825, gives no- tice that the laying of the corner-stone will take place with Masonic honors, on July 4, 1825. Signed by the Committee of Arrangements, who were: Jonathan H. Cobb, Moses Gragg, John Will- iams, John K. Briggs, Martin Marsh, and Jason Messenger. On the appointed day, July 4, 1825, the corner- stone of the Court-House was laid with great cere- mony. In a cavity made in the corner-stone a leaden box was deposited containing the following articles: i. The newspapers of the day. 2. Web- ster's address on Bunker Hill. 3. An account of that battle. 4. A miniature beaver hat of the latest fashion. 5. A marble keystone with Masonic em- blems. 6. Specimens of marble paper. 7. A silver plate with an inscription. 8. A piece of the Fore- father's Rock.^ Of this occasion the Fillage Register says: "On Monday last [July 4, 1825], being the Anniversary of our Independence, the Corner Stone of the Court House, about to be erected in this town, was laid with ceremonies peculiar to the most Ancient So- ciety of Free and Accepted Masons. The morning was ushered in by the firing of cannon and ringing * Mann's Diary, July 4, 1825. [51 1 A Dedham Tavern of bells. All thearrangements which hadbeen made by a Committee of Constellation Lodge were car- ried into effect." There was a grand procession which marched to "Rev. Mr. Burgess' Meeting House. There pray- ers were offered by Rev. Br. Samuel Adlam of the Baptist Church in this town and an address deliv- ered by R. W. and Rev. Benjamin Huntoon. . . . After the religious services the procession repaired to the tables and partook of a sumptuous repast, prepared by Brother Moses Gragg." Seats were provided for five hundred or six hundred people.^ Two years later, on February 20, 1827, the new Court-House was opened and dedicated by an ad- dress from Chief Justice Parker of the Supreme Court. The Court began its sitting that day. With the opening of the new Court-House Nor- folk County became a favorite place for lawyers to try their cases in. It must be remembered that in the early days of the last century and up to 1834, when the Providence Railroad was extended to Dedham, when Court was in session it was a very different affair from present conditions. As there were no facilities for coming and going as now, all the judges, lawyers, parties, and witnesses met at the beginning of each term and remained until their cases were finished. The Norfolk Hotel, being but a few steps from both the old and the new Court- Houses, entertained many of those people. As 1 Mann's Diary , same date. [ 52 ] Moses Gragg stated before, Judges Theophilus Parsons, Thomas Dawes, and Samuel Sewall, as well as Lawyers Samuel Dexter, Fisher Ames, and James Otis, were among those who frequently attended Court in Dedham in the early years of the century; and later we find among the judges and lawyers the names of Daniel Webster, Joseph Story, Isaac Parker, Robert Rantoul, Lemuel Shaw, Theron Metcalf, Pliny Merrick, James Trecothick Austin, Caleb Cushing, Caleb Strong, Samuel Putnam, Samuel C. Wilde, Horace Mann, George P. Sanger, Rufus Choate, Marcus Morton, Robert C. Win- throp, Charles Francis Adams, Edward Everett, Horace Gray, EbenezerR. Hoar, Charles A. Dewey, Seth Ames, Richard H. Dana, William Gaston, John A. Andrew, and Benjamin F. Butler, — most if not all of whom actually had their rooms in or otherwise patronized the Norfolk Hotel during Court Session. John Quincy Adams frequently visited Dedham while President and afterwards. The following are references to his visits: Village Register, September 29, 1825 : "President John Quincy Adams passed through this town yes- terday evening on his long contemplated visit to his aged and venerable parent." He visited his father, John Adams, on this occasion, and in the following year this old ex-President and another ex-President, Thomas Jefferson, breathed their [531 A Dedham T'avern last on the same day, July 4, 1826. On July 31 of the same year eulogies were pronounced in Dedham over their deaths, described as follows: ^ "A very large procession was formed at Alden's Hotel and proceeded around the square to Rev. Mr. Lam- son's meeting-house. . . . President John Quincy Adams, with his brother and two sons, were first in the procession after the marshals. . . . The eulogy was pronounced by Horace Mann, Esq." After the services " the procession was again forrned and escorted as before to Alden's Hotel where they separated. " John Quincy Adams was in Dedham as late as 1843, for we find this note in Mann's Diary of October 24 of that year: "John Quincy Adams visited Dedham previous to his departure for Wash- ington. He made an address at Rev. Mr. Burgess' Church." On this occasion he spoke against slavery.^ The following are scattered references to the Tavern while Gragg was landlord: Village Register, January 4, 1822: Certain peti- tioners for new roads from the Court-House and from the house of Giles Richards notified by the Court of Sessions to meet "at the house of Moses Gragg, Innholder, in Dedham." Same, November 23, 1823 : ^^ Notice. Those who 1 Dedham Transcript, July 30, 1887. * William Ames's Diary, October 24, 1843. [ 54] Moses Gragg have subscribed for the support of an Academy in this village are requested to meet at Gragg's Hall," etc. Mann's Diary, February il, 1825: He attended the burial services of Governor Eustis in Boston with the Dedham Light Infantry. After the Com- pany was dismissed for the day, he says, "part of the company tarried to the theatre; after supper I got into the stage and started for home; excellent singing on the way; stopped atTaft's; delectable 'bellows top'; arrived at Gragg's about 10; sang a Te Deum; descended from the carriage, and thus ended the campaign." March 17, 1825, the Norfolk Mutual Fire Insur- ance Company was organized at Gragg's. The first President was Hon. John Endicott; the directors from Dedham being Erastus Worthington, George Dixon, and Joslah S. Fisher.^ Village Register, March 3, 1825: ''Stop Thief! The subscriber's dwelling house was entered last night by some villain who stole therefrom the fol- lowing articles . . . $30, reward offered. Moses Gragg." Same, April i, 1825 : Notice of a sale of crockery- ware "in the lower hall of Mr. Gragg's tavern"; Calvin Guild, auctioneer. Same, March 22, 1827: Notice of an adjourned meeting of the Commissioners of Highways for the County of Norfolk to be held at "Gragg's Tavern." ^ Dedham Transcript, December 30, 191 1. I 55 1 A Dedham 'Tavern Same, August 23, 1827: "A considerable number of the inhabitants of Dedham assembled at Gragg's Hotel on Monday evening for the purpose of de- vising measures for the more effectual extinguish- ment of FireJ^ A committee was appointed and reported a number of recommendations, among them the formation of a Fire Society. Gragg now contemplated moving to Milton and he inserted this offer of sale of his tavern in ,the Village Register of January 31, 1828: "The subscriber will sell or let an establishment which he now himself improves as a Public House, and is well known as the Norfolk Hotel. This es- tate for business and pleasantness is not surpassed by any other in the County of Norfolk. "Moses Gragg." This notice apparently had its result, for soon after, on April i, 1828, Moses Gragg conveyed the Norfolk Hotel and premises to his former partner, Francis Alden,^ himself taking a new hotel in Mil- ton,2 which he called the "Blue Hill Hotel." ^ 1 Norfolk Reg. of Deeds, Book 84, p. 215. 2 Mann's Diary, July 4, 1828. * Village Register, June 26, 1828. Francis Alderiy Landlord, 1828-1840 IN this period the Norfolk Hotel, or "Alden's Hotel," under Captain Francis Alden as land- lord, reached its prime in fame and popularity. It continued to be a favorite resort for political meetings, caucuses, and conventions. Balls, dances, banquets, concerts, sleighing-parties, and other similar diversions were held here. Military organ- izations, various clubs and societies — in fact, getherings of almost every popular sort followed in rapid succession within the hospitable walls of the Norfolk Hotel under the management of its genial host. Francis Alden was born in Needham, Massachu- setts in 1793 and died in Dedham, March 17, 1875. At his death this obituary was published: ^ "A conspicuous citizen of Dedham has gone, in the death of Capt. Francis Alden, who died at the residence of his son in law, Mr. Sanford Carroll, on Church St. in this village, on Wednesday evening at the advanced age of 82 years. . . . Capt. Alden was a native of Dedham, the eldest of a number of sons of the late Amasa Alden — Francis, Leon- ard, George and Amasa — all, now deceased, living within our remembrance. He will be remem- bered by many old residents as landlord of the ^ Dedham Transcript, March 20, 1875. [57I A Dedham 'Tavern Norfolk House for many years, when it had the patronage of the Court. He was afterwards agent for the Providence Railroad and had the manage- ment of the Dedham Branch Railroad (via Read- ville), under the administration of Wm. Raymond Lee, the first superintendent. He was an energetic, enterprising and industrious man, and his decease will be generally regretted." Alden at once began Improving and enlarging the tavern. "The original house was of brick, 42 feet wide by 20 feet deep, 2 stories high with a hall and staircase in the centre, and a room on each side. At some later period the house was Increased in depth to 30 feet, the additional space at the back being veneered with brick on the ends and left with wooden clapboards across the rear. Later still a large room was built at the right, with another entrance doorway (this explaining the two door- ways), increasing the width of the house to its present dimension of 64 feet. This addition was all of brick, and at the same time the dwelling was made 3 stories high. About this time, or later, the wooden ell which is 60 feet long and 28 feet wide — the full dimensions of the ball room — was added to the brick main portion of the house." ^ Alden also added a large porch extending the whole length of the house, traces of which can still be seen on the front of the building. 1 Dedham Transcript, March 6, 1909. "The Old Norfolk House," by the Rev, E. W. Virgin. The description is more or less inaccurate. [ 58] Francis Alden Speaking of these improvements the Dedham Gazette says: ^ "The estate [in 1828] was much im- proved by Capt. Alden. The front building was extended, the addition containing the hall and also the stable were built by him." The alterations considerably enlarged the bar or tap-room, or "great-room," which now (1912) forms the library of the house. Here were to be found all the necessary adjuncts of an old-time bar, including the "flip iron," "flip bowls," and the desk with quill pen, sand-box, and account-book in which were recorded the number of transactions charged to each patron. The "flip iron" was an indispensable article of the "great-room" and always stood or hung by the fireplace. It was a large iron stirring-stick and was often used in the concoction of certain bever- ages. Other curious names were given it, such as "loggerhead," "hottle," or "flip dog." It was heated in the fire till red hot and was then thrust into the liquid, the bitter taste imparted by the iron to the liquor being greatly enjoyed. In those days "Flip" and "Half-and-Half " were favorite beverages. "Flip" was made of home- brewed beer, sugar, and spice, and a liberal dash of Jamaica rum, and was mixed with the "flip iron." "Half-and-Half "was a mixture of two malt liquors, usually ale and porter, or old and new ale. A list of drinks popular in New England con- 1 July 7, 1866. [59] A Dedham 'Tavern tains also the following: Punch, cider, strong beer, porter, grog, madeira, port, sherry toddy, claret, sangaree, and toddy. But there were many others of as general popularity as these, for there was rum, both New England and West Indies, brandy, "sillebub," "Jonava" (gin), metteglin, sack mum, ale, and no end of mixtures of which these formed the base.^ STAGE-COACHES Those were the good old days of the Stage-Coach, when stops were made at the various taverns along the route for a change of horses or refreshments. The arrival of the coach was always a lively one at the Tavern. The townsmen, eager for the last news, would drop in and mingle with the new ar- rivals around the comfortable fire in the great- room. Here the assembled company, with toddy, flip, and other good cheer generously passed around, would discuss all manner of subjects, politics usu- ally being the chief topic. A prosperous calling was that of landlord of an old-time stage tavern. Within a few days of his purchase of the Norfolk Hotel, Alden advertised his house and the stage- lines by publishing this notice in the Village Regis- ter ^ April 10, 1828: * Huntoon's History of Canton; also Alice M. Earle in Sabbath in Puritan New England; Stage-Coach and Tavern Days; Field's Colonial Tavern. [60] Francis Alden ''^Removal "Francis Alden respectfully informs his friends and the public generally, that he has removed from the Inn lately occupied by him and known by the name of the 'Gay Tavern' to the Norfolk Hotel, heretofore kept by Mr. Moses Gragg. The house is pleasantly situated in the centre of the village of Dedham, on the Boston and Providence Turn- pike, nearly opposite the new Court House, and near the Dedham Bank and is more conveniently situated for the transaction of public business than any other tavern; it affording a convenient stop- ping place for the Southern and Western travel; and he hopes by a continuance of his exertions and by the superior accommodations of his house to merit and obtain a continuance of the public pat- ronage. "N. B. The Commercial Line of Stages running between Boston and Providence, and connected with the Steamboat Line between Boston and New- port, have so far altered their arrangements as to take relays of horses at this House, where way passengers going North and South can be accom- modated at the lowest rates of fare. Horses and carriages furnished at the shortest notice. " Dedham, Apr. lo, 1828." Again within a month Alden advertises the Dedham Stage (started by Martin Marsh in 18 14), in the Village Register, May i, 1828: [61 ] A Dedham "Tavern '"'' Summer Arrangement. Dedham Stage "The stage will start from the Norfolk House (Alden's, formerly Gragg's) at 7 in the morning, every day, Sundays excepted, and call at Capt. Francis Guild's store and Mr. Bride's Hotel in Dedham, pass through Roxbury and arrive in Bos- ton at 8.30 o'clock. Returning leaves Thompson's Hotel, No. 9 Elm St., at 4 o'clock p.m. " In addition to the above, a Stage will start from the same place every Monday, Thursday and Saturday at 7.30 a.m. and pass by the several manu- facturing establishments in Dedham; and thence to the Brush Hill Turnpike, direct to Boston and arrive at 9 o'clock. Leaves Thompson's Hotel at 4.30 P.M. same days. Fare 50 cents." Three years later, after all the changes and al- terations had been made, Alden again advertises his house in the Dedham Patriot, January 7, 1831, once more calling attention to the stage-lines.^ The Independent Politician and Workingmen's Advocate of January 5, 183 1 (two days prior to the above notice in the Dedham Patriot), advertises the Norfolk Hotel in almost precisely the same lan- guage, but with a cut of the Tavern (see frontis- piece) as it formerly stood. The Norfolk Hotel was an important stage centre. It was on Court Street which was a part of the "King's Highway," and the first national post- * See illustration facing p. 62. f 62 1 Francis Alden route established in the country in 1693, running from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, through Boston, Dedham, Providence, New York, and as far south as James City, Virginia. In 1795 the first mail coach passed over this road from Boston to points south. The Norfolk and BristolTurnpike was completed in 1804, and Court Street as far as Highland Street was a part of it. Erastus Worthington, in his His- tory of Dedham, published in 1 827, says : "The Nor- folk and Bristol Turnpike goes through the village and is a great thoroughfare between the north and the south. The steamboats from New York land their passengers at Providence, and in a few hours afterwards six or seven stages full may be fre- quently seen a mile south of the village descending into it, bringing sometimes the dust with them which they raise. Every other day the mail arrives on its way to Washington City. The number of those who assemble at the Post Office at the hour of arrival is not so great that each one must ask a question and be off, but custom allows the talkers and the quidnuncs to remain, and amuse or op- press their temporary audience with their remarks on all subjects." The Rev. Edward W. Virgin says on this sub- ject: ^ "It [the Norfolk Hotel] was on the direct road from Boston to New York. In 1832, it is said, 1600 stages rolled in and out of Boston weekly, and ^ Dedham Transcript, March 6, 1909. [63 ] A Dedham T^avern 30 coaches left early every morning from Boston for New York, and there was an old saw that 'tav- erns were as thick as fiddlers in hell.'" Samuel Mclntire, son of a later landlord, says: * "Reverting again to my boyhood, those were the good old days of the stage coach, and often as I stood upon the rustic porch of the old Norfolk House, have watched with the keenest interest the driver perched upon his high seat, circle his four in hand at full speed, around and up in front of the porch, with the precision of a master. It was done so nicely and with such ease that I wished I was old enough to be in the driver's place; indeed I thought at the time that the driver of a stage coach was about as exalted a position as a person could well occupy, and the sharp crack of the whip as the driver swung the long lash to bring the leaders into place was music in my ears and made me long to handle that whip and try its snapping qualities. Those old coaches with their heavy leather springs and upholstered seats were easy to ride in, and be- sides a social way of travel, far ahead of that by rail, and since come in use to drive the coach from the road." During the first third of the nineteenth century the stage-coaches for long distance travelling had three wide seats, one at each end of the coach, and one in the middle called the "strap seat." Each 1 "Echoes of the Past, or the Home of my Boyhood," Dedham Transcript, November 29, 1902. [64] Francis Alden of these three seats accommodated three passen- gers, making nine in all inside. Later there were also some outside seats. The back part of the coach was used for baggage.^ An old resident in 1888 gives his reminiscences of "fifty or sixty years ago": "^ "One of the ex- citements to arouse the town out of its lethargy was Type of a Dedham Stage Coach, about 1830. Similar to the one in the painting of Bride's Tavern, now in the Dedham Historical Society the arrival of the stage coaches at Bride's or AI- den's tavern on their way from Providence to Boston. Then for a few moments all was hurry and bustle, the stage horn would be heard in the distance, and the horses would be brought to the door all harnessed and ready, and in less time than I could tell it the tired horses are taken out and fresh ones put in and the stage is on its way, the Citizens' and the Peoples^ Line striving to see which ^ See From the Stage-Coach to the Railroad Train and the Street Car, by George G. Crocker. * Dedham Transcript, February 25, 1888; "Old Times Reviewed." [65] A Dedham 'Tavern shall make the shortest time." He speaks of Fran- cis Alden as a "model landlord." Great was the rivalry existing between the dif- ferent lines of coaches to see which should make the quickest time between Boston and Providence, the usual time being about four and one-half hours. The Citizens' Line stopped at the Phoenix, and the Peoples' Line at the Norfolk Hotel to exchange horses, or perhaps for breakfast. The Citizens' Line built some very light and handsome coacjies, and with their fastest horses ran what was called the "Pioneer Line," making the whole distance in about three and one-half hours, thus beating the other line. A large number of horses were required, and from seventy-five to one hundred were kept at the stable in the rear of the Phoenix Hotel, and at the time of the burning of the stables more than sixty horses perished.^ The Citizens' Line left Boston at 5 a.m. at all seasons of the year, often sending twelve or fifteen coaches at a time and sometimes as many as forty passed through Dedham in a single day.^ To illustrate the speed of the horses and the keen competition between their owners, I quote from Nathaniel Ames's Diary, April i, 1806: "Upon a wager of iioo dols. Mason's horse of Providence & Cabot's horse of Boston started from Providence arriv'd at Dedham in 2 hours 15 minutes went to 1 Dedham Historical Register, vol. i, p. 1 16. * Frank Smith, Dedham Taverns. [ 66 Francis Alden Boston & back In 80 minutes to Dedham, so on to Providence again all people exclaiming at such extreme cruelty to such generous animals." Again to Illustrate — the editor of the Prov- idence Gazette ^^ speaking of the stage-coach, wrote: "We were rattled from Providence to Boston In 4 hours and 50 minutes — if any one wants to go faster, he may send to Kentucky and charter a streak of lightning." As to the time taken In changing the horses of the coaches "our Dedham hostlers do the same thing handsomely In one minute." ^ Of course upon the completion of the Boston & Providence Railroad and the extension of the branch line to Dedham In 1 834, all this was changed, and the village of Dedham felt the change severely. Its former bustle and activity disappeared, for there was no Industry to take the place of the Stage-Coach. THE BALLROOM The furnishing of food, drink, and shelter to travellers was not the only function of the tavern. It was chiefly at the tavern that opportunity was offered for social gatherings for the amusement of young and old; and the various tavern-keepers made ample provision for the entertainment of those resorting to their houses. Many of them * Earle's Stage-Coach and Tavern Days. » Norfolk Advertiser, August 2, 1834. [67] A Dedham Tavern added spacious ballrooms to their taverns for this purpose. The Ballroom of the Norfolk Hotel was one of the best in New England, and for years was the scene of many a festive occasion. Many series of winter parties patronized by the most prominent citizens of Norfolk County were held here. It was in constant demand, and "from far and near part- ies of quality came to try the celebrated spring floor and the elegant game suppers following a royal dance." ^ The graceful minuet had about disappeared at the time the Norfolk Hotel was built; but the old- time contra-dances, where the first gentleman was "to foot it to the second lady and both turn single," and the "first three couples haze, then lead down in the middle and back again," where "the first couple three hands round with the second lady, allemand; three hands round with the second gentleman, allemand again; lead down two couples, up again, cast off one couple, hands round with the third, right hand and left," were gone through with all the spirit and enthusiasm of enjoyment.^ Samuel Mclntire, son of a later landlord, as previously stated, gives this picture of the Ball- room: "In the third story of the wing of the old Norfolk House was the ballroom. It had a spring ^ Dedham Transcript, March 6, 1909. " The Old Norfolk House," by the Rev. E. W. Virgin. * Field's Colonial Tavern. [68] i'ltutuij rap lied by John F. Guild, Drdhani THE BALL ROOxM Francis Alden floor and as It yielded to the even step of the merry dancers it would rise and fall like the waves upon a gentle sea; at the same time the doors and win- dows in the second story beneath would rattle as if buffeted by a storm. Of course those dances in that old hall took place during the winter season, and from far and near did the youths of both sexes, decked in their best clothes, congregate to chase the glowing hours with flying feet. In one end of the ballroom was a large, old-fashioned fireplace, and the warmth and the light therefrom added to the cheerfulness of the gay scene within, and bade de- fiance to the storm that might be raging without. In the other end of the room, and well elevated, was the stand for the musicians who played for the dance, a place which for heat, as the dance wore on, could not be duplicated this side of Hades, and for which reason the musicians were excusable, per- haps, if occasionally they went out *to see a man.* I was too young at the time I write to dance, but I can remember many a gay scene in that hall. The 'square' dance was then all the go; the 'round' dance as yet had not caught in its fond embrace the Dedham lad and bonny lass." ^ As has been truly said : ^ "Those old-time dances which brightened for a moment the dull life of the period would not awaken much enthusiasm in the hearts of the youth to-day. But to those brown ^ Dedham Transcripty November 29, 1902. * Field's Colonial Taverns. 69 1 A Dedham "Tavern faced stalwart country youths and those red cheeked, hearty colonial maidens they were the height of pleasure and enjoyment. Here was wit- nessed the old-time contra-dance now gone by. Here the young maidens 'took the step' and the young men 'cut the pigeon wing'!" The following are references to balls, assemblies, and schools for dancing given in the new Ballroom while Alden was landlord, the first two references indicating that it was being used for these purposes early in 1829: Village Register, February 19, 1829: ^'Dedham Assemblies "The Fourth Assembly will be held on Monday evening at Francis Alden's Hall. Persons wishing for tickets will apply to either of the managers. Per order, George Alden, Sec'y." Same, March 19, 1829: "Day School for Young Ladies, Masters and Misses. Lovet Stimson, In- structor of Dancing, respectfully informs the in- habitants of Dedham that he proposes commencing a school at the new and elegant Hall of Francis Alden . . . where strict attention will be paid to improve the manners and deportment of the scholars entrusted to his care. A handsome style of dancing and a great variety of the latest and most fashionable cotillions will be taught in his school. Terms ^6. for 18 lessons." [70] Francis Alden The same issue speaks of a "new and splendid Dancing Hall" at the Dedham Hotel (Bride's). Same, December lo, 1829: "Mr. Frost gives Dancmg lessons at Alden's Hotel." Dedham Patriot, January 6, 1832: ''Sleighing Parties. Parties of pleasure are frequent In this village, and the Halls of our landlords echo to the light tread of Beauty tripping on the ' light, fan- tastic toe.' All seem to come with merry bells and merry hearts. They thus brighten the gloomy face of Winter with the light and cheerfulness of Sum- mer." Same, 1831-1832: " The Dedham Cotillion Band Furnishing music for Cotillion Parties, Balls Assemblies, or Private Parties. All orders left at Bride's or Alden's Taverns or at the house of Dex- ter Dean. . . . Spanish Waltzes if required. Dex- ter Dean, Latimer Blake." Same, March 28, 1833 : J. Clark gives notice that he will open a school for dancing at "Capt Al- den's Hotel." Same, February 5, 1835: ''Last Shake "Notice is hereby given that our last Assembly wil be held Friday evening Feb. 13th. at Alden's Hall, Dedham. Those who wish to join in the fa- vorite recreation of Dancing on that occasion are respectfully invited to attend. J. Q. Adams, T. W. Nash, B. H. Tubes, Managers.'' [71 ] A Dedham 'Tavern These parties were called the "Dedham Assem- blies." 1 Same, November 5, 1835: Notice that A. B. White will open a school for dancing at "Alden's Hall. ... For terms and particulars apply at the Bar of the Hotel." Norjolk Advertiser, February 12, 1836: Notice of the Dedham Assemblies at "Capt. Alden's Hall." Samuel Whiting and Horace Felton, Managers. Same, November 12, 1836: " Thanksgiving Ball "Come fix up your ruffles, your ribbons and lace, Let dimples and ringlets now deck every^ face, Bring plumes, wreaths and roses, gems, diamonds and all, And prepare to attend the grand Thanksgiving Ball. " Ladies and gentlemen invited to attend the An- nual Ball on the evening of Dec. i, 1836, at Alden's Hotel. Dancing will commence at 6 precisely. Horace Felton, Samuel Whiting, Reuben Far- iNGTON, Moses Boyd, Managers.'' Same, July i, 1837 : Mr. A. Deucharannounces he will commence a dancing-class in Mr. Alden's Hall on July 5. "He will teach Waltzes, Gallopades and Mazourkas which have become so very popular and fashionable. Particular attention will be given to instruction in attitudes.'' Same, February 17, 1838: "We have had one or two flights of snow, and the sleighs slip along 1 Dedham Patriot, February 12, 1835. [72 ] Francis Alden very well. Now is the chance for the hows and hells to appear and enjoy themselves. Capt. Alden stands ready to serve them. Come on, then, and enliven Dedham!" Same, January 12, 1839: ^^ All Right! The subscribers having engaged Mr. E. Kendall's Cotillion Band, will give a Social As- sembly at Capt. F. Alden's Hall on Friday evening, Jan. 25, 1839. Eliphalet Stone, Samuel Whiting. "Tickets two dollars to be had at the Bar. Music: E Flat Bugle, Harp, Violin, Clarionette, Oph- icleide." William Ames's Diary, December 27, 1838: "They had a Ball last night at Mr. Alden's. Kept it up till three in the morning." Norfolk Democrat, February 23, 1839: ^^Once More ! The last Assembly for the season will be held at Capt. F. Alden's Hall on Mar. 5th. Music by Kendall's Cotillion Band, as before." William Ames, referred to above, was a son of the Dedham Statesman, Fisher Ames. He was born in Dedham, October 3, 1800, and died in Spring- field, Massachusetts, May 19, 1880. His Diary, kept faithfully for forty-five years, from 1835 to 1880, and now preserved in the Dedham Histori- cal Society, deals chiefly with general information gathered from the daily newspapers and unfortu- [73 ] A Dedham "Tavern nately refers but briefly to matters of local Ded- ham interest. He was a bachelor, without much business occupation, and from 1828 to 1846 ^ lived at the Norfolk Hotel, a good part of the time in a small, cheerless, north room on the third floor, the first to the right of the stairway. ^ In 1846 he moved to the Phoenix, where he resided for many years. Of quiet, unassuming manners, and much respected, his chief pleasures consisted in long, solitary walks and frequent visits to Boston, Cambridge, Lowell, Springfield, and Brattleboro to see his relatives and friends. He once thus described himself: "I am like my room, neat and clean, but solitary." ^ Not only dances but concerts and other amuse- ments were given in the hall of the Tavern: Dedham Patriotj August 14, 1834: "Second Comic Concert. Mr. Comer and Mr. & Mrs. W. H. Smith, highly gratified by the patronage of their Dedham friends on the occasion of their first Concert are induced (by particular request) to offer a second and positively the last this season, on Thursday evening at Alden's Hotel." Same, December 25, 1834: Notice of a meeting at Alden's Hotel for the purpose of forming a Lyceum or Debating Club in the village. Same, February 1 9, 1 83 5 : William H. Mann gives notice of a concert at Alden's Hotel by the Dor- ' Diary, April 26, 1854. * Statement of Mrs. Horace Bacon. * Diary, July 30, 1858. [74] Francis Alden Chester and Milton Glee Club. Tickets, 25 cents, "to be had at the Bar." "The pieces went off with a good deal of applause and some of them were called for a second time." Mann's Diary, March 22, 1839: ^^Old Billings once more! "A very full meeting of lovers of ' sweet sound ' was held at Alden's Hall this evening. A full and effi- cient orchestra was present and the different so- cieties in the town were well represented. Mr. Calvin Ellis presided this evening by request. About 80 partook of the supper after the sing. A toast offered by Abijah Smith, an old veteran singer, was well rtceWed: Billings Music — half century singers — may the rising generation hold fast to old times — eat, drink and sing with mod- eration, temperance and perfection — and each one be at liberty to license himself." Andrew Jackson Andrew Jackson was reelected President of the United States in the fall of 1832, and the following year we find him in Dedham on his way to Boston, making a tour through the New England States. The President with his suite embarked from New York June 15, 1833, and landed at New Haven. After visiting Hartford and Norwich he reem- barked at New Haven and was conveyed to New [75] A Dedham Tavern London in the steamboat General Jackson^ and thence to Newport. He tarried two days in New- port and Providence, and on Friday, June 21,1833, •passed through Dedham, the Norjolk Hotel being honored with his presence, together with that of the Vice-President, Martin Van Buren; Governor Cass, Secretary of War; Governor Woodbury, Secretary of the Navy; Governor Marcy, of New York; General Williams, of Mississippi; Mr. Poinsett, of South Carolina ; and several gentlemen of- dis- tinction from different cities. The Norjolk Advertiser, June 22, 1833, describes the occasion: "The President and suite arrived here [Dedham] yesterday about 12 o'clock. His approach was announced by a salute from the Walpole artillery, of 24 guns. He was met at the southern entrance of the village by the assembled citizens. He de- scended from his carriage, as did also the Secre- taries of the War and the Navy, and received the following address from Hon. James Richardson, Chairman of the Committee chosen to arrange and execute the civic proceedings of the day: "*Sir — The Citizens of Dedham and its vi- cinity feel honored by the presence, among them, of the Chief Magistrate of the Nation, and with great pleasure tender to him their respectful considera- tion, and with it the plain and simple hospitalities of the place. And this as a tribute, not only to exalted, but to important public service rendered [76] Francis Alden to our common country; particularly In the brav- ery and military skill displayed In defense of a sec- tion of the Union against the attacks of a public enemy — and recently In the recognition and ap- plication of sound constitutional principles, and in the firmness and energy manifested when the integrity and security of the Union, the Palla- dium of our liberties and the only safeguard of general prosperity and of Internal peace and tranquility, were threatened. We, one and all, respond to the sentiment that " The Union must he 'preserved.^'' "'Sir, — The people of Massachusetts inhabit a territory rough and comparatively barren, bor- dering on the ocean; they were therefore early in- spired with a spirit of enterprise, and compelled to practise the virtues of industry and economy, and to place their sole reliance, under Providence, on their own exertions. This necessity generated in them a love of liberty and Independence, and a de- sire to establish institutions favorable to the moral and civic virtues — to science and sound learning. It is hoped, sir, that an acquaintance with the habits, manners and institutions of our people will not lower our character In the estimation of our Chief, and that, returning, he will carry with him some information not entirely useless in guiding his views as to a course of public policy. Finally, we wish him health, and all the enjoyment that such an excursion and the respect of the people in the A Dedham "Tavern various sections of the country are calculated to afford — and that on retiring from his high station, the evening of his life may be cheered by the recol- lection of all that he has done to promote the se- curity and prosperity of his country.' "To which the President made a brief and ap- propriate reply. The President was then conducted by the committee, through a throng of spectators, to the open space in front of the first Parish Meeting House, where he received the salute of Col. Eatoji's regiment of Militia, and after reviewing them, was conducted to AlderCs Norfolk Hotel, where he and his suite dined. The President afterwards appeared on the portico, and shook hands with each officer of the regiment. The President rode in a barouche drawn by four spirited steeds. He left our village at one o'clock, and was followed by a train of horse- men and carriages, some of the latter containing gentlemen of distinction." The President was handsomely received in Bos- ton. At the State House he was welcomed by Governor Lincoln and other important officials. Later he visited Faneuil Hall and reviewed the Boston Brigade on Boston Common. On June 24, he visited Bunker Hill, where he listened to an address by Edward Everett. Another account of the President's visit is given by the Dedham Patriot, June 27, 1833: "The President [Andrew Jackson] and suite arrived in this village at 12 o'clock noon, on Fri- [78] Francis Alden day last [June 2i, 1833], from Providence. At the southern entrance of the village he was met by the assembled citizens and received an ad- dress from Hon. James Richardson, Chairman of the Committee appointed by the citizens to ten- der him their respects and welcome him to the place. " The reply of the President was brief and ap- propriate. He was then conducted on foot by the Committee through the throng of spectators, who were ranged in two lines nearly the whole length of Court St., bowing gracefully to the people on either side as he passed, to the open space in front of the meeting house, where the first regiment commanded by Col. Eaton was paraded. After receiving the salute of the military and reviewing them, he to- gether with his suite were conducted to the Norfolk Hotel, where they dined. At one o'clock he took his seat in an open barouche, together with the Vice President (Martin Van Buren) and the two aids of Gov. Lincoln, and departed on his journey to Boston amid the cheers of the assembled multitude, and followed by a numerous retinue in the car- rfages. The President was accompanied by Vice- President Van Buren, Gov. Marcy of New York, Secretaries Cass and Woodbury, and several other distinguished gentlemen." It is said that the President also made a speech from the portico of the Norfolk Hotel. ^ Dedham Transcript, March 6, 1909. [79I A Dedham "Tavern An eye-witness of the occasion gives this account of the President's visit: ^ "Andrew Jackson, Presi- dent, and Martin Van Buren, Vice-President, both stopped in Dedham for dinner. All hands quit work and went up to see the President's party. They came in stages and walked through a double line of citizens up to the brick hotel. Jackson, hat in hand, bowed alike to friends and enemies, if he had any. He sat upstairs afterwards and smoked his pipe very constantly until after dinner, when he and his party were met by Bostonians and taken to their City." Mrs. Horace Bacon, daughter of Francis Alden, as stated before, remembers this occasion. So great was the crush and so eager were the populace to get a glimpse of the President that even the roof of the portico was covered with young and old. PUBLIC MEETINGS The Norfolk Hotel during the era of Alden's ownership became a centre of political activity in Dedham, but the violent political passions and the bitter, partisan feeling of the early days of the cen- tury had pretty much disappeared. The new, en- larged building with its spacious hall became an admirable and convenient place for political and other public meetings. The Village Register oj October i6, 1828, alludes to one: ' Dedham Transcript, January 29, 1887; signed by " A. D. W." [80] Francis Alden ^^ Norfolk Administration Convention "At a meeting of the delegates from the sev- eral towns comprising the Norfolk Congressional District friendly to the National Administra- tion at Alden's Hotel in Dedham on the 15th. inst. . . . the following resolutions were adopted, viz: "Resolved, that our confidence in the integ- rity, patriotism and talents of John Quincy Adams and in the purity and wisdom of his adminis- tration, continues unabated; and we heartily con- cur with his friends elsewhere in recommending Mr. Adams to the undivided support of our fel- low citizens for the next Presidency of the United States." Committees were chosen consisting of Hon. Jairus Ware, Ebenezer Fisher, Jr., Jonathan H. Cobb, Erastus Worthington, William Ellis, and Abner Ellis. At this convention Hon. John Bailey was endorsed for Congress. Again, a few days later in the samepaper, October 23, 1828: "Those /ri?(? citizens, who are not sup- posed to submit to the dictation of self-created District Managers, and who are opposed to the reelection of John Bailey Esq. are respectfully invited to assemble at Alden's Hotel on Oct. 28th at I o'clock P.M. to select some Independent inhabitant of the District to represent them in Congress." In 1830 a Republic an Caucusw3iS held in "Alden's [81 ] A Dedham Tavern Hotel," ^ and the next year is this notice: ^ "The citizens of Dedham friendly to the present State Administration are invited to meet at Alden's Hotel ... for the purpose of electing delegates to attend the County Convention, to be holden at Shepard's Tavern in this town on Monday next." A few months later is a "Notice to the Republi- cans of Dedham to meet at Alden's Hotel to choose delegates to represent the town in the National Republican Convention." ^ Henry Clay was now a national figure and we find these references to him : Dedham Patriot^ September 21, 1832: "Notice. The citizens of Dedham friendly to the election of Henry Clay and John Sargeant as President and Vice-President of the U. S. are invited to meet at Alden's Hotel," etc. "Nathaniel Guild, C/iaiV- man,'''' Same, September 28, 1 83 2 : " At a meeting of the National Republican citizens of Dedham friendly to the election of Clay and Sargeant at the Norfolk Hotel on Sat. evening, Sept. 22, 1832, Hon. Jas. Richardson was called to the chair, and Edw. M. Richards, Sec'y." Theron Metcalf, Thomas Bar- rows, Horace Mann, Esquires, and Colonel Josiah N. Bird were elected delegates to attend the State Convention at Worcester. Mann's Diary, March 20, 1830. Dedham Patriot, March 18, 183 1. Dedham Patriot, October 28, 183 1. f 82 1 Francis Alden Norfolk Advertiser, October 5, 1832: ''At a meet- ing of the delegates from the several towns in Nor- folk County, friendly to the General Administra- tion, holden at Alden's Tavern, in Dedham, on the 4th inst. ... it was voted, unanimously that we cordially approve of the nomination of the Hon. Marcus Morton for Governor, and the Hon. John Mills for Lieut. Governor." Bride's Hotel burned down October 30, 1832, the year previous to Jackson's visit to Dedham, and the Phoenix, arising from its ashes, was not finished for two or three years ; so the Norfolk Hotel, for a while at least, had pretty much of a monopoly of political meetings. In 1833 the Jackson Republicans met at "Al- den's Hotel" to choose delegates to the Jackson State Convention to be held at Worcester. Elisha Thayer, Committee. These delegates were chosen: Timothy Gay, Captain Pliny Bingham, Richard Ellis, Martin Marsh, and Colburn Ellis. ^ The Na- tional Republican Citizens ^ also met there, and other political bodies as well.^ In 1834 we find the Norfolk Whig Convention,^ the Democratic Republicans,^ and the Whigs of the Town of Dedham ^ holding meetings there. * Dedham Patriot, August 29, 1833. * Dedham PatriotySt^ttxaber 26, 1833. * Dedham Patriot, April 25, 1833, * Dedham Patriot, October 9, 1834. * Dedham Patriot, October 9, 1834. 8 Dedham Patriot, February 12, 1835. [83 ] A Dedham "Tavern In 1835 two conventions were held at Alden's Hotel to nominate candidates for County Com- missioners.^ The Norfolk County Whig Convention also met there, when It was resolved to support Edward Everett for Governor and Daniel Webster for President. Theron Metcalf was present.^ By 1836 the Norfolk Hotel had become a Whig centre In Dedham, while Its rival, the Phoenix, catered to the Democrats. At the former the Whigs of Dedham met to choose delegates to the Worces- ter Convention. Hon. James Richardson, Hon. John Endlcott, Samuel Swett, and John Baker, 2d, were chosen.^ Later In the year the Whigs of Norfolk County ^'^ the Whigs of Dedham ^ and the Republicans friendly to the election of Edward Everett for Governor ^ assembled here. Norfolk Advertiser, November 12, 1836: "At a numerous meeting of the Republican citi- zens of Dedham, held at Alden's Hotel on Nov. nth It was unanimously agreed to support for Representatives, Joshua Fales, Jr., John Morse and Daniel Covell. "The following persons were chosen vote dis- tributors: E.B. Holmes,Wm. K. Gay, Jabez Coney, 1 Dedham Patriot, April 23, 1835. 2 Dedham Patriot, October 22, 1835. * Norfolk Advertiser, August 20, 1836. * Norfolk Advertiser, October, 1836. ^ Norfolk Advertiser, October, 1836. * Norfolk Advertiser, October, 1836. [ 84] Francis Alden Jr., Francis Guild, John E. Boyden, Samuel C. Mann, Charles Richards, Joseph Day, F. A. Taft, E. W. Taft, James Downing, Willard Everett 2nd, Josiah N. Bird, Nathaniel Clap, Joseph Onion, Epraim Soule. "The Dedham Democratic candidates for re- presentatives are Wm. Ellis, John Dean 3rd, Daniel Marsh." From 1 83 7 to 1840 there is a record of many meet- ings of a political nature at the Norfolk Hotel. The Norfolk Advertiser, February 16, 1839, describes one of local interest: "At a meeting of many of the citizens of Dedham assembled at Alden's Hotel on Feb. 9th, to select suitable candidates for town officers for the ensuing year, Wm. King Gray elected Moderator, and E. G. Robinson, Clerk. For Town Clerk: Richard Ellis. For Selectmen, Assessors, Overseers of the Poor, etc.: Martin Marsh, John Bullard, Col. Luther Eaton, Capt. Ellis Fuller and Joseph Fisher. For Treas. and Collector: Gen'l Nath'l Guild." Herman Mann became interested in the Whig movement and made certain interesting notes on the subject in his Diary, which are now quoted: October 24, 1838: "Attended a convention of the citizens opposed to the present arbitrary License laws at Alden's Hotel. Stormy day — about 40 present. The two great political parties of the day, the Whigs and Democrats, having previously nominated candidates supposed to be in favor of the [85 ] A Dedham 'Tavern law as it stands, it was resolved today to put in nomination a Liberal ticket for Senators and to support them at the polls in November next. This ticket consists of Hon. John Ruggles of Milton, Hon. Wm. Ellis of Dedham and Hon. Lewis Fisher of Franklin. . . . Gen. E. W. Bradley presided at the meeting, and Jabez Bigelow and George H. French of Quincy, acted as Secretaries." November 3, 1838: "At a Whig caucus held this evening at Alden's Hotel, Messrs Joshua Fales, James Richardson and George Ellis 2nd. were nominated as representatives to the next General Court. The meeting was fully attended — some who had heretofore acted with their political op- ponents were at the caucus & took a part. If their conversion to the right political faith is sincere, there can be no objection to their acting — but if their object is to deceive or create confusion, it is worthy of their Tory principles, and they are wel- come to the credit they deserve for their unprin- cipled acts." November 10, 1838: "At a meeting of the Rally- ing Committees of the several school districts pre- viously chosenattheWhigCaucus — at Alden's this evening — the subject of the schisms among our political friends being debated, the folly of putting a new nomination list of candidates for Repre- sentatives before the citizens of Dedham was fully set forth by Dr. Stimson and others. It was pre- tended by some of the Temperance party that [86] Francis Alden their objections to the candidates first nominated was because of the impertinent interference of a few of the Van Buren party in the Whig Conven- tion. But it was apparent that the real objection was that two of the candidates nominated, al- though sound Whigs, unfortunately differed from them on the abstract question of the policy of the License Laws. The question being put finally to each individual present as to uniting in support of the original nominations, it was agreed to almost unanimously — some 20 of the Committee being present — 2 or 3 were not prepared to give a strong affirmative, and some others of the temperance portion answering y try faintly. The 'liberal' part of the committee had no objection to support the whole nomination, although one of the candidates, Mr. Fales, was known to be opposed to them on the question of the License Laws. If the 'Tories' do not take advantage of these dissensions to run in one or two of their candidates it will be their own blindness." May 15, 1839: " Whig Convention. A convention of Whig Delegates for the several towns in the County was held at Alden's Hotel. The convention was organized by the choice of James Richardson as President — Thos. French of Canton, Wm. H. Sumner of Roxbury, Meletiah Everett of Wren- tham and Josiah Brigham of Quincy as Vice Presi- dents — and John M. Gourgas of Quincy and Nath'l P. Lovering of Roxbury as Secretaries. . . . [87] A Dedham "Tavern The convention was very fully attended. . . . Among the interesting subjects descanted upon were the Militia and License questions." March 6, 1840: ''^ Whig Association. Anadjourned meeting of the Whigs of Dedham was held this evening at Alden's Hotel. A Constitution was read & adopted, and a society organized under the name of the ''Dedham Whig Association.^ The meeting was very full for a political meeting and a good feeling prevailed. Hon. John Endicott was chosen President of the Association. Several good and spirited resolves were passed, the last of which to support the nominations of Harrison and Tyler for President and Vice-President of the United States was received with enthusiasm and adopted by ac- clamation. Upwards of 100 citizens were present and signed the Constitution. The meeting sepa- rated for the evening after giving three hearty cheers for the Hero of Tippecanoe." March 17, 1840: Whig meeting at the Town House. After the meeting "the Company were invited to adjourn to Alden's Hotel and partake of the customary Whig Cheer, 'hard cider and crackers,' There was a bountiful supply of refresh- ments provided of which our Loco-foco friends who were present showed themselves no slouches at demolishing, although they might not so well di- gest the arguments of the several speakers." The Town House referred to was erected in 1829. William Ames's Diary, March i, 1840: "Last [ 88] Francis Alden night the Whigs of Dedham had a meeting at Al- den's Hotel to form a Whig Association. Meet again next Friday night." As stated before, the completion of the Boston and Providence Railroad and the extension of the line to Dedham sounded the death-knell of the Stage-Coach. As early as 183 1 the citizens of Ded- ham were seeking a way to introduce the Railroad to their village, for in that year *'a meeting of citi- zens in this vicinity was held at Alden's Hotel at which a committee of 5 was chosen to examine a suitable route for a Railroad in or near this village." 1 Two years later on July 6, 1833, a meeting of the citizens of Dedham was held at "Alden's Hotel" and approved the proposition of the proprietors of the Boston and Providence Railroad to extend a branch from its road to Dedham, provided it should meet the approbation of the inhabitants.^ A com- mittee of twelve was appointed at this meeting to assist the engineer in locating a suitable route. It was thought the road would be ready for travel by the following November. "The beneficial effects upon the interests and trade of this town cannot be too highly estimated. Success to the enter- 1 Dedham Patriot, October 28, 1831. Also Politician and Advocate ^ October 28, 1831. » Dedham Patriot, July 11, 1833. [89] A Dedham "Tavern The following year the contributors for the pur- chase of land for the Dedham Branch Railroad and the citizens of the town met at Alden's Hotel on ^'Railroad Business'''' \'^ Samuel Swett, Chairman. December 8, 1834, the Railroad was opened to the public and Dedham for the first time was con- nected by rail with Boston. Two trips each way per day. Vale the Stage-Coach ! Just before the opening of the Dedham Branch Railroad, the Norfolk Advertiser, September 20, 1834, gives this interesting bit of information re- garding Dedham, with a brief reference to the Nor- folk Hotel: "It is often remarked by travellers, who pass in the Providence coaches, that Dedham is one of the handsomest villages in the United States. Its beautiful shade trees have always been objects of admiration; and although but few of its buildings may be denominated elegant, there is scarcely a dwelling among them which does not wear an air of neatness and comfort which is quite as fascinat- ing as elegance itself. The Court-house is a beau- tiful piece of architecture, and its style and loca- tion are often the subject of commendatory remark. The three churches make a good appearance, and there are some private mansions, such as Haven's, Dowse's, Ames', Swett's, and Richards', which are large and handsomely situated. Besides the Norfolk Hotel (a first-rate house, kept by Alden), we have ^ Dedham Patriot, November 13, 1834; December 4, 1834. [90] Francis Alden Shepard's, and the Dedham Hotel, soon to be opened by Its former landlord, Mr. Bride. This last Is a splendid new house, not surpassed In size, fixtures, or elegance of finish, by any In all the villages of Massachusetts." Mann's Diary continues to be replete with notes on Interesting events In Dedham history. His pet diversions were fishing and shooting, and his refer- ences to "Company Shoots" are here noted: December 5, 1828: "Company Shoot. . . . Paid two dolls, each with which Capt. Bingham pur- chased the turkeys. Shot at papers, 42 in number. . . . Supped together at Alden's Hotel. 312 shots were fired before the papers were hit. I did not hit one! Good chance to Improve." November 6, 1833 : " Company shoot." M. Bates, S. Lewis, W. H. Mann, G. Alden, A. Richards, and O. Pierce were on one side. On the other were P. Bingham, H. Mann, L. Shepard, J. A. Austin, E. Foord, and F. Alden. "The losers paid for the supper at Alden's." November 27, 1835: "Company shoot. Losers paid for supper at Alden's Hotel. Fired from the old Avery House, 25 rods. Sides, A. Richards, Wm. H. Mann, L. Shepard, J. N. E. Mann, Wm. Stearns, Geo. Alden, T. T. Kimball, Th. Brown, E. Foord, 19. M. Bates, S. Lewis, H. Mann, P. Bingham, J. Bride, J. A. Austin, E. Newell, J. Chapin, Sumner D. Kingman, 23." [91 ] A Dedham T^avern November 25, 1836: "Annual shooting match on the grounds near the house of Josiah Smith on Dedham Island. Paid in ^3. each for purchase of poultry which cost this year 16 cts. per pound. Dis- tance precisely 30 rods. Number of marks forty- five. Supper at Alden's." The two sides consisted of S. C. Mann, A. Richards, WiUiam H. Mann, Will- iam Stevens, T. T. Kimball, Samuel Whiting, Enos Foord, Francis Alden, 19, Ebenezer Newell, Samuel Lewis, H. Mann, J. Chapin, George Alden, E. W. Sampson, P. Bingham, Samuel Lewis, Jr., and H. Felton, 26. November 24, 1837: Meeting of the Shooting Company at " Alden's Hotel " to arrange for the Annual Company Shoot to be held "in the Ames Clearing, near Sandy Valley, a fourth of a mile from the house of Mr. Briggs." Further references to "Company Shoots" are noted in the next chapter. Mann, as has been stated, was a member of one of the Engine Companies, and their meetings con- tinued to be held at "Alden's Hotel": January 5, 1829: ''''Engine Anniversary. The several engine companies in this village held their anniversary at Alden's Hotel. The supper was in Alden's best style. The toasts were tolerable. The number which sat down at the tables was about 80. The Masons and Anti-Masons present ex- changed a few shots by way of trying their metal; no serious charge was made by either party, con- [92] Francis Alden sequently no blood, but some wine only was spilled in the skirmish. The company separated at an early hour in peace and harmony. J. Richardson, Esq., presided, assisted by H. Mann." January 17, 1829: "The subscribers for a new fire engine met at Alden's this evening. J. W. Ames Esq. was chosen moderator and E. Foord Esq. Sec'y. The Soliciting Committee made their report by which it appeared that they had obtained from the citizens the very liberal subscrip- tion of ^656.50, the inhabitants generally being well disposed towards the object in view. Maj. J. Clark, Joel Richards, and Capt. P. Bingham were ap- pointed a committee to purchase a first rate en- gine, with section hose and such other apparatus as the monies subscribed will allow. A committee was appointed to solicit further aid, it being de- sirable to raise $1000. if possible." May 6, 1834: A meeting of the Engine Company at Alden's Hotel. January 9, 1836: "The Annual Meeting of the several Engine Companies was held at Capt Alden's Hotel on the 5th inst. There were present in addi- tion to the invited guests 120 members." Dinner, toasts, etc. The Dedham Fire Society met at "Alden's Hotel" January i, 1832.^ This Society had its meetings here until 1848, the officials issuing notices being John Dixon, William H. Mann, and John King. 1 Dedham Patriot, December 23, 183 1. [93 ] A Dedham "Tavern The Firewards of the several Parishes also met here.^ Preparations were also made for a Fire Depart- ment at "Alden's Hotel." 2 It was well that Dedham was provided with En- gine Companies, Fire Societies, and Firewards at this period, for fires and incendiarism were rife. Mann, November 20, 1828, says: "Incendiaries. An attempt was made last night to set fire to an outhouse adjoining the sheds rear of Mr. Alden's." In 1832 (October 30), we have seen that Bride's Hotel together with its stable, was burned, and in 1835 a man named John Wade was tried for setting it on fire. The Dedham Patriot of November 5, 1835, gives an account of the trial. Justices Shaw, Putnam, Wilde, and Morton presided. James Tre- cothick Austin, Attorney-General, and Pliny Mer- rick, District-Attorney, prosecuted for the Com- monwealth. The prisoner was found guilty and sentenced to death, but later the sentence was commuted to one of imprisonment. "On the night of the fire Wade was stopping as a guest at the Nor- folk House, and during that night, as he after- wards confessed, he got up, dressed himself, went down stairs into the barroom, took my father's coat from a hook therein, put it on and coolly pro- ceeded to the Phoenix stables, set them on fire, and then as coolly returned to the Norfolk House, ^ Norfolk Advertiser, August 20 and 27, 1836. 2 Dedham Patriot, January 20, 1832. [94] Francis Alden slipped upstairs and into bed, having of course first hung the overcoat where he had taken it from. Later, however, he was at the fire, a seemingly innocent spectator of his own villainous act." ^ His room was in the attic story of the hotel. Mann has already alluded to the Masons and Anti-Masons, between whom a bitter feeling pre- vailed at this time. I quote from his Diary: June 24, 1829: "Masonic Festival. A large com- pany of the Fraternity (about 320) assembled in this village to celebrate the Nativity of St. John the Baptist. Towards noon they were marshalled in splendid array opposite Alden's Tavern. . . . After parading a short time through the street, they ar- rived again at the tavern, when, behold, out poured about 120 — ladies! — who crowding into the midst of the procession followed into the meeting house where they were conspicuously placed in the galleries." Although Alden, as well as his predecessors, Marsh and Gragg, were Masons, he did not object to the Anti-Masons meeting at his tavern : Dedham Patriot, August 29, 1833: ''Anti-Ma- sonic Notice." The Anti-Masonic citizens of Ded- ham were notified of a meeting at Alden's Hall August 30 at 7 o'clock, to choose delegates to the Anti-Masonic Convention to be held at Boston. Per order of the Town Committee. ^ Samuel Mclntire's "Echoes of the Past"; Dedham Transcript, November 22, 1902. I 95] A Dedham Tavern Same, October lo, 1833: Notice to the Anti- Masonic citizens of Dedham to assemble at Alden's Hotel to nominate candidates for Senators. This was a large meeting, the various towns of Norfolk County sending delegates.^ SECOND CENTENNIAL ANNIVERSARY OF THE SET- TLEMENT OF DEDHAM, SEPTEMBER 21, 1836 This Anniversary was a notable episode in Ded- ham's history. Elaborate preparations had been made for it by various bodies of the people. ' The Manufacturers and Mechanics of Dedham had met in August at the Norfolk Hotel to consider meas- ures for celebrating the occasion. ^ Their committee consisted of Thomas Barrows, Ezra W. Taft, Joel Richards, Captain F. Guild, Joseph Day, Edward B. Holmes, Captain R. Guild, 2d, Colonel Josiah N. Bird, Ira Russell, and Stephen Barry. The following were the Assistant Marshals who met at Alden's Hotel on September 17, for consult- ation: John Morse, Theodore Gay, 2d, Luther Eaton, Reuben Guild, 2d, James Downing, Ezra W. Taft, Francis Guild, Joseph Fisher, Austin Bryant, N. A. Hewins, John D. Colburn, Benjamin Boyden, Nathan Philips, Joseph A. Wilder, Stephen Barry, Ira Russell, Merrill Ellis, Samuel C. Mann, Edward B. Holmes, E. D. Weld, Joseph Day, Josiah Dean, 2d, E. G. Robinson, Theodore Met- ^ See also Norfolk Advertiser, September 6, 1834. * Norfolk Advertiser, August 13 and 27, 1836. [96] Francis Alden calf, and R. G. Trescott. The Chief Marshal was Nathaniel Guild. The Day of Celebration. The procession was in the following order: Military Escort, Band, Aide — Chief Marshal — Aide, Committee of Arrangements, President, Orator and Chaplain, Clergy, Vice-Presidents, Governor and Suite, Marshals, Invited Guests, Sheriff of Norfolk, , Selectmen of Dedham, Marshals, Subscribers to the Dinner, Marshals, Citizens and others who join the Procession. Francis Alden worked hard to make the cele- bration a success. ''Mine host of the Norfolk Hotel [Captain Alden] is engaged with indefatigable in- dustry in preparing his part of the arrangements." ^ The Norfolk Advertiser ^ describes the events of the day as follows: "Wednesday last was a proud day for Dedham. The Second Centennial Anni- versary of the settlement of the town was cele- 1 Norfolk Advertiser, September 17, 1836. 2 September 24, 1836. [97I A Dedham 'Tavern brated in a style of tasteful elegance and rich display rarely excelled. The arrangements of the Town Committee were very extensive and afforded a grand entertainment for the numerous body of Dedham's sons, who returned once more to the home of their childhood — to our honored invited guests, and the large collection of people from Bos- ton and adjoining towns, who assembled on the oc- casion. The day was ushered in by a grand salute of loo guns and a merry peal from the village bells. . . . At 8 o'clock the Fire Dept. of Dedham, under the command of their Firewards, formed in front of the Town House, on Western Avenue, and es- corted by the Boston Brass Band they moved through Western Avenue, Centre Street and Com- mon Street to the village green in front of the First Church, where the engines were placed in a double column with a space in the centre for the procession to pass through. There were 8 companies present with their engines and apparatus. Each member wore the badge of his company. . . . "At ten o'clock, the children attending our pub- lic schools formed in procession at the District School House, under the care of their respective teachers, and marched to the village green, es- corted by the Dedham Light Infantry, and were placed in lines within the columns of engines in front of the Church. This simple and unpretending parade was one of the most interesting and gratify- ing sights of the day. It was a moving but speech- [98] Francis Alden less comment upon the noble nature of our free in- stitutions. Who could witness those long lines of pretty, smiling faces, and orderly, well dressed and intelligent youths, without being proud to say: I am an American citizen! "The General procession formed at half past ten, on Western Avenue. Escort duty was performed by the Dedham Light Infantry under the command of Capt. Wm. Pedrick,accompanied by the Band. . . . The Procession moved from Western Avenue to the Norfolk Hotel, where it was joined by his Ex- cellency the Governor, Edward Everett, and Suite, the Orator of the day, the Reverend Clergy, the County Officers and invited guests. Among the latter we noticed the Governor's Aids, Cols. R. C. Winthrop and Andrew, President Josiah Quincy, Hon. Judge Davis, of the District Court, Hon. Alexander H. Everett, Adj. Gen. Dearborn, Hon. Wm. Jackson, M.C. and the Hon. Franklin Dex- ter. The procession then moved through the prin- cipal streets to the Village Green, passed through a grand ornamental arch and the lines of Children and Engines to the Meeting House. The Arch above mentioned was a frame of lattice work covered with evergreen and flowers; on one side were the words, in bold letters, 'Incorporated 1636,' and on the other '1836.'" Services were held at the Meeting-House with an introductory prayer by the Rev. Mr. Lamson and an address by Samuel F. Haven, son of the [99] A Dedham 'Tavern Hon. Judge Haven, The dinner was served In a spacious pavilion erected in the rear of Western Avenue. "About 600 persons sat down to the din- ner which was served up by Capt. Francis Alden of the Norfolk Hotel. It was truly the 'feast of reason and flow of soul.'" After a blessing by the Rev. John White of the West Parish there followed the regular toasts and an oration by Gov. Edward Everett, who was greeted "with deafening ap- plause." Hon. James Richardson presided. ^ It will be noticed that the Dedham Light Infantry played an imposing part in this Second Centennial Anniversary of the Settlement of Dedham. Captain Alden himself was an honored member of the Mi- litia, and his tavern was a favorite resort for their meetings. 2 The Dedham Light Infantry frequently assembled there, some of the notices sent out being signed by "Lyman R. Colburn, O.S." and others by him as "Clerk."^ Another anniversary which was pretty generally celebrated in Dedham was Independence Day. The Norfolk Hotel, as we have seen, was occasionally an important participant, and the following will serve as illustrations of the spirit of the occasions : ^ An excellent account of this occasion may be found in Samuel F. Haven's Address at Dedham, beginning page 72. 2 Roberts's Ancient and Honorable Artillery Company, vol. 3, p. 2. ' Dedham Patriot, May 29, 1834; April 30, 1835; Norfolk Adver- tiser, July 2, 1836; August 27, 1836. [ 100 ] Francis Alden Politician and Advocate^ July 7, 183 1 : '"''Fourth of July Celebration "The 55th anniversary of our Country's Eman- cipation from foreign thraldom was celebrated by our citizens in an appropriate and spirited manner. The collection of people was respectably numerous and from various towns adjacent. A procession was formed at Alden's Hotel and thence proceeded to the parish meeting house, under escort of Dedham Light Infantry, under Capt. Eaton, where a sound and eloquent address was pronounced by Rev. A. V. Bassett. After which, the company sat down to an excellent dinner prepared by Capt. Alden, in his best style. . . . "The toasts delivered on the occasion, we are sorry to state, savor rather too much of violent partyism, to comport well with the celebration of an anniversary In which men of all parties, and of every political creed, cannot but unite and ought, it seems to us, harmonize. " Subjoined are the regular, and as many of the volunteer toasts, as we have been able to collect: " The President of the United States — We honor the office, we honor the Hero of New Orleans — may the days of his retirement be as happy as those of his victories were glorious. " The memory of Washington — time cannot dim the lustre of his virtues — eternity will be the guardian of his fame. [ loi ] A Dedham Tavern " The memory of Warren and those who fell in their Country's cause — To behold the fruits of the sacrifice would be a rich reward to their generous and heroic spirits. "Robert Y. Hayne and his associates and their scheme of Nullification — may it be carried into effect when they can show how every state can enjoy equal privileges — the constitution and laws of the U. S. be the Supreme law of the land — and yet any state have a right to annul any law they dislike. ''Daniel Webster — The man most eloquent in defence of the Union deserves a place at Its head. " The Poles and their cause — may their leader possess the wisdom of Washington, the heroic brav- ery of their own Kosciusko, and may their success and prosperity equal our own." Toasts were given to "The Day," "The people of the U. S.," "The new Cabinet If any there be," "The natural and lasting bond of Union of the States," "The late Secretary Eaton's better half," "The nations that are struggling against oppres- sion," and "The Reverend Clergy of all denomin- ations." There were also several volunteer toasts given at this dinner: "By Horace Mann, Esq.: The wisdom of our ancestors ; which instead of standing armies to gov- ern the people, provided common schools, that they might govern themselves. [ 102 ] Francis Alden "By J. H. Cobb, Esq.: Our public servants at Washington. Those who cut and run away " May live to fight another day. Those who still maintain their stations May live for future reformations. " By A. Tillinghast, Esq. : The Good Ship United States — her colors half mast — Union down — Signal of Distress — the wind on shore and blow- ing a gale — the Captain deficient in nautical skill — the under officers in a state of mutiny and re- yolt^ __ the crew must rise and put Commodore Clay in command with a good Pilot at helm or the ship must founder. " By J. N. E. Mann : Henry Clay — the would-be President of the U. S. — like Pindar's razors, made to sell." Other volunteer toasts were given by T. Barrows, Herman Mann, George Alden, W. H. Mann, J. Richardson, L. Powers, Simeon Smith, T. P. Rider, and George Brown. Dedham Patriot, July 8, 1831: "Our Independ- ence was commemorated (on July 4th) in this town with an unusual degree of spirit and conduct. 13 discharges of cannon announced the dawning of the day. These were followed by 24 more at sunrise, and immediately succeeded simultaneous peals upon the bells." A large procession, marshalled by Colonel A. Guild and Mr. H. Monroe, pro- ceeded to the Rev. Mr. Lamson's Meeting-House, I 103 1 A Dedham Tavern where exercises were held. The procession then "returned to Alden's Hotel where they partook of a very excellent dinner." Same, July lo, 1834: Grand Celebration of the Fourth of July in Dedham. Procession, Oration, and services In the Meeting-House, with "an elo- quent and fervid appeal by Rev. Mr. Lamson. . . . After the services In the meeting-house, the pro- cession was again formed and repaired to the tables on the green, where a sumptuous entertainment was prepared by Capt. Francis Alden, 'mine host' of the Norfolk Hotel." Various toasts followed, Thomas Barrows presiding. The Committee of Ar- rangements, which met at the Norfolk House June 19,^ consisted of Herman Mann, Jason Guild, Joseph Sumner, Joseph A. Wilder, Theodore Gay, 2d, Enoch G. Jackman, Luther Eaton, Elbrldge G. Robinson, Edward D. Weld, Jabez Coney, Jr., Simeon Smith, and Austin Bryant. At about this period the W ashingtonian Tem- perance movement swept the country and many New England taverns were forced out of business. Dedham was divided between the Liberal and Tem- perance parties. There were stirring and stormy scenes at town-meetings, and conventions of both parties were held at the Norfolk Hotel. ^ Tem- ^ Dedham Patriot. * Mann's Diary, March 14, 1838; Norfolk Advertiser, February 17, 1838; Same, January 26, 1839. [ 104 ] Francis AUen perance meetings were the fashion. The Dedham Patriot mentions one : * "Temperance meeting. A number of the citizens of Dedham met at Alden's Hotel on Tuesday even- ing for the purpose of forming a Charitable Tem- perance Society on the principle of abstaining from the use of all ardent spirits, including wine." J. A. Etheridge, Moderator; J. C. Grossman, Secretary. A few days later, December 14, the Society again met at the same place. Simeon Smith was chosen President; John A. Etheridge, Vice-President; Sabin M. Smith, Secretary; Horatio Clark, Treas- urer. The Temperance Party triumphed for the time being, and Francis Alden, accepting the situation, conducted the Norfolk Hotel in strict accordance with the license laws, as shown by this editorial in the Norfolk Advertiser: ^ "There are some taverns in this County who have honestly banished ardent spirits from their bar rooms, agreeably to law, and there are doubtless others who still continue to lay the tempter before the unwary, dealing out spirits in spite of law and to the detriment of society. We would therefore earnestly recommend to the sober travelling public that they use means to ascertain who among the tavern keepers obeys the law and who tramples upon it, and by all means to patron- ize on all occasions the former instead of the latter. As one among the number of lawfully and well con- * December 12, 1833. * May 14, 1836. [ 105 ] A Dedham Tavern ducted hotels we would mention Alden's In this vil- lage. Our friends who have occasion to patronize a public house cannot do better than to call at that establishment." Although Alden obeyed the liquor laws, there were doubtless many taverners who did not: "The County Commissioners have refused to grant any licenses to taverners to sell the ardent. It Is sup- posed that many of them continue to sell contrary to the Statute." ^ About the year 1840 the Old Court House, -which had been removed from Its early site near the Nor- folk Hotel to the opposite side of the street In 1827 or 1828, became known as Temperance Hall.2 Despite the success of the advocates of Temper- ance the Liberal Party and the License Advocates fought Prohibition tooth and nail : Norfolk Advertiser, April 16, 1836: A meeting of the Taverners and Retailers was held at "Capt. F. Alden's Hotel "to consider the refusal of the County Commissioners to grant them licenses. A letter from the Hon. Rufus Choate was read to the meet- ing, giving his professional advice with regard to the Constitutionality of the license laws. Mann's Z)zWy, October 24,1838: "Attended a convention of the citizens opposed to the present arbitrary laws, at Alden's Hotel." Norfolk Advertiser, October 20, 1838: A request * Mann's Diary, February 12, 1838. ^ Dedham Historical Register, vol. xiv, p, 44. [ 106] Francis Alden to the "citizens of Dedham opposed to the present Laws to assemble at Alden's Hotel on the 24th." At this meeting it was voted to oppose these laws, "because they closed our public-houses and im- mured many of our most worthy and industrious citizens within the cold walls of a prison." The same paper, October 27, thus comments on this meeting: " The Striped Pig Convention, the call for which was to be ' signed by 62 legal voters in Nor- folk County ' met at Alden's on Wednesday. We understand that the number present was quite small. According to accounts, it was hardly a de- cent litter. Whether there were any sucking ones among them, or no, we are not informed." This great Temperance wave had its effect on the profits of taverns and many were offered for sale, among them Alden's: ''Norfolk Hotel, For Sale or To Let "That well known and highly eligible Tavern Stand situated in the centre of Dedham village and directly opposite the Court House, is now offered for Sale. This establishment has long been under the management of Francis Alden, the present occupier. It consists of a large and commodious house, 3 stories high, extensive Stable and Out- buildings. The buildings are mostly newand in good repair. This is decidedly one of the best stands in the County. It is located in a pleasant and thriv- ing village within 40 minutes of Boston by the Rail- [ 107] A Dedham "Tavern road. It affords a delightful retreat from the city for boarders and parties of pleasure. . . . For further particulars inquire of Francis Alden on the premises, or of Leonard Alden, Low Plain, Ded- ham." 1 It was two years, however, before Alden could dispose of his tavern. In 1832 the Cholera ravaged many of our Eastern States. In New York the business of the city was completely prostrated by it, and it is said that there were forty-two hundred cases there and twenty- five hundred deaths.^ Dedham early took meas- ures to prevent the spread of the disease to the village : Dedham Patriot, August 3, 1832: ^^ Notice, The Citizens of this village are invited to meet at Al- den's Hotel tomorrow evening to take measures for a thorough cleansing of the Village, and to adopt such other measures as may be thought expedient, in reference to the possible approach of the Cholera to this place." Same, August 9, 1832: "At a meeting of the citizens on Aug. 4th. at Alden's Hotel to consider measures to stay or pre- vent the ravages of the Spasmodic Cholera, should the town be visited with that fatal malady; the meeting was organized by choosing Maj. Clark, Chairman, J. H. Cobb, Sec'y* The meeting was 1 Norfolk Advertiser, May 5, 1838. ' Norfolk Advertiser, August 10, 1832. [ 108] Francis Alden addressed by Dr. J. Stimson, Hon. J. Richardson and E. Worthington, Esq. On motion it was ^ ^ " Voted, as the sense of this meeting, that it is the duty of each citizen and householder to see that his premises are thoroughly cleansed, and that they and each of them be requested to attend to that subject accordingly. " Voted, that a committee of six be chosen to examine the premises of the citizens and house- holders of this village, and such others in other parts of the town as they may think necessary, with the consent of the occupants, and see that the foregoing vote be carried into effect so far as prac- ticable. ... T u "Whereupon Messrs Samuel Swett, Jacob Clark, James Bride, Calvin Guild, George Dixon and Dr. Jeremy Stimson were chosen. " Voted^ to adjourn this meeting to Saturday, the l8th. inst. to meet at 7.30 f.m. at this place." \ Various items of interest connected with the Nor- folk Hotel, or "Alden's Hotel," are now referred to: Dedham Patriot, March 18, 1831: "The inhabit- ants of Dedham who feel an interest in the question of the mode of repairing the Highways are requested to meet at Alden's Hotel. . . ." Same, May 27, 183 1 : Notice of a meeting of the Norfolk County Committee of Workingmen at Al- 1 Norfolk Advertiser, August lo, 1832. [ 109 1 A Dedham Tavern den's Hotel for planning a public celebration of the approaching Fourth of July; Herman Mann, Chairman. Same, September 2, 1831: Notice of a meeting of the directors of the Norfolk Association of Teachers at Alden's Hotel; William H. Spear, Chairman.^ Same, November 9, 1832: Nathaniel Guild, Col- lector, notifies certain persons to pay their taxes "at the house of Francis Alden." Same, September 18, 1834: J. R. and W.'Howe & Co.'s. New York Menagerie exhibited "near F. Alden's Hotel." January 6, 1834: "At a meeting of the Propr's of the Social Library at Mr. Alden's Tavern, Maj. Jacob Clarke was chosen Moderator, Jonathan H. Cobb, Clerk, Mason Richards, Librarian, Treas. and Collector, Joseph Fales, Fred'k A. Taft and James Farrlngton, Standing Committee." 2 The call for this meeting was signed by Joseph Metcalf, Asahel Smith, John Eaton, Luther Eaton, and Jesse Farrlngton. The annual meetings continued to be held here until 1841. It was probably In the year 1835 that the large, fine elm tree on the Norfolk Hotel grounds and near George A. Phillips's house was set out by Abner Alden. It Is said that he brought It here on his shoulders from Elm Street, where his grand- ^ See also Dedham Patriot, July 13, 1832, August 31, 1832. * Original Records of the Dedham Social Library. [ no 1 Francis Alden father lived. He was born in the Norfolk Hotel while his father was landlord, January 29, 1821.1 Other elm trees were planted near the Tavern about this time. William Ames, May 6, 1836, says: "Two elm trees, one 30 feet high, the other 27, were dug up today to be set out near Alden's Tav- ern. The smallest came from a swamp." Dedkam Patriot, December 10, 1835: " Likenesses taken in full length" at "Capt. F. Alden's Hotel. Norjolk Advertiser, January 23, 1836: Notice of a meeting of the Dedham Village Avenue Associa- tion at Alden's Hotel. I. Cleveland, Secretary. Same, March 12, 1836: "Citizens desirmg of or- namenting the streets of Dedham with forest trees' are notified to meet at Alden's Hotel. Same, February 4, 1837: "In place of the cars, a stage is run daily to Boston by Mr. Mclntire, starting from Alden's at 8 a.m. & will continue to run until the cars resume their wonted trips." Same, February 18, 1837: Abner Alden, son of Francis Alden, had a narrow escape from death. While riding a horse kept at his father's stable, it ran away, severely injuring him. Same, July 8, 1837: Two chaises collided in front of Alden's Hotel. "One of the pillars which sup- ported the portico in front of the hotel was carried away, and a stone post much loosened." Same, November 11, 1837: "Mrs. Barry pro- poses opening a School on the 13th Nov. at Mr. 1 The "Old Norfolk House"; Dedham Transcript, March 6, 1909- [ III ] A Dedham Tavern Alden's Hotel for the purpose of teaching the Art of making Wax Flowers, Fruit, etc." Mann's Diary, December 26, 1837: "Court is in Session, Judge Cummings presiding. Alden's Hotel is full from garret to cellar." William Ames's Diary, March 28, 1838: "Anti- Slavery Convention in Dedham. Negroes and mulattoes attended. These Mulattoes ate dinner, supper and breakfast at Alden's with their white abolitionists, who it was plain were only acting a part." Norfolk Democrat, April 27, 1839: A meeting of the Dedham Boat Company was held at "Alden's Hotel." William Ames's Diary, November 10, 1839: Mr. T. Metcalf and family came to board at Alden's Hotel yesterday." In 1839 Francis Alden made another unsuccess- ful attempt to dispose of his tavern and published this notice in the Norfolk Democrat, October 12: " Valuable Tavern Stand. ''At Auction. "Will be sold at public auction on the 13th inst. at I P.M. that well known establishment, Alden's Hotel, situated in the centre of Dedham Village, within a few rods of the Court House. The establishment consists of a large and commodious House, three stories high, with suitable Stables and [ 112 ] Francis Alden outbuildings. This sale will afford a rare opportun- ity to obtain an eligible Stand for a country Hotel. The buildings are in good repair, having been mostly built within a few years. . . ." October 27 of the same year William Ames writes: "My landlord, Mr. Alden, means to sell out or rather his brother Leonard who owns the Hotel means to, and Mr. Alden is about to take charge of the cars on Dedham Branch Railroad." And on November 3: "My landlord, Mr. Alden, means to sell out on the 13th inst." Later Alden was more successful in disposmg of his tavern, and on March 10, 1840, the Norfolk hotel passed into the hands of Martin Bates, the consideration specified being $6000.^ The title since September 7, 1829, had been nommally m Leonard Alden,^ brother of Francis Alden, but the latter remained in charge as landlord until the sale to Bates. 1 Norfolk Reg. of Deeds, Book 127, page 3. 2 Norfolk Reg. of Deeds, Book 88, page 122. VI Martin Bates and Others, Landlords, 1840-1866 MARTIN BATES was the last of the tav- ern keepers of the Norfolk Hotel. His policy was to lease the house to various landlords, but he acted himself as such at different times, filling in the gaps when the house was with- out a landlord. The Dedham Gazette, December 18, 1869, pub- lished this short sketch of Bates's life: "Mr. Mar- tin Bates, who died in this town on the 8th Inst, was a native of Dedham, and was the son of Samuel and Mary F. Bates. Early In life he went to Dan- vers, where he learned the trade of a Nailer, and returning to his native town, followed his trade at Mill Village. He afterwards removed to this village, where for some time he carried on business as a blacksmith. Gradually he commenced the purchase of Real Estate, of which he was at one time the largest owner In town. For several years he was the owner and proprietor of the Norfolk House. The value of his estate will not fall short of $35,000." 1 There is a reference to the Tavern in William ^ For further particulars of Bates's life and family see Dedham Re- cords, Church and Cemetery, 163 8-1 845; edited by Don Gleason Hill. [ 114] MARTIN BATES Martin Bates and Others Ames's Diary ^ within a week of Bates's ownership, though it is still called "Alden's Hotel": "Last night there was a large Whig meeting at the Town Hall which was as full as it could hold, both seats and aisles. A Boston gentleman made an eloquent, animating speech, two others were made, one by a mechanic, the other I think was a Walpole farmer, both of them showed good sense and the last not a little humour. After this a gentle- man sung a song in praise of the gray bearded sol- dier Harrison to the tune of 'old lang syne' — the audience sung the chorus with great enthusiasm. Delegations from Canton, Walpole and Roxbury were present — these were invited to Alden's Hotel where they were furnished with a cold colla- tion. I saw E. G. Robinson and Wilder of the Ded- ham Loco Foco paper present at the meeting. Great earnestness and zeal were shown on the occasion." Arrangements had been made for this meeting ten days previously when over one hundred Whigs met at "Alden's Hall" and formed themselves into a Whig Association. 2 George W. Haseltine, landlord from April i, 1840, to February 4, 1841, was the first of the several lessees during the Martin Bates regime. Herman Mann thus introduces him:^ "Mr. George W. Haseltine from Salem has just taken the hotel in 1 March 17, 1840. * William Ames's Diary, March 7, 1840. * Mann's Diary, April 20, 1840. [ 115 1 A Dedham 'Tavern this village formerly kept by Mr. Alden. About 50 of the citizens called upon him this evening by previous arrangement and partook of an elegant supper, by way of trial of his skill, and found it excellent. Several gentlemen volunteered toasts on this occasion; myself being called upon gave 'Our new Landlord — though the Hazel-tiuG has taken the place of the Alder, may no one have cause to regret the change — let the tree be judged by its fruit.'" William Ames briefly alludes to Haseltine's ad- vent as landlord: "March 27, 1840, at last Mr. Hazleton, my new landlord, has come — he begins to keep Alden's Hotel April 1st." "April I, 1840, today Mr. Hazelton takes Mr. Alden's place. I doubt his success." Ames makes many allusions to Haseltine and it is curious to see the various ways he spells his new landlord's name. The year 1840 was marked by the exciting Har- rison or "Tippecanoe and Tyler too" campaign. On July 4, 1840, there was a grand Whig Celebra- tion in Dedham in honor of General Harrison. On the Common in front of the First Parish Meeting- House a crowd estimated at from 7500 to 10,000 people was addressed by the various speakers — "A glorious day for Old Norfolk." ^ The Nor- folk Hotel must have done a large business that day. ^ Mann's Diary, July 4, 1840. [ 116] Martin Bates and Others William Ames describes the day as follows: "Some thousands of Whigs marched in a long pro- cession from the space in front of Mr. Lamson's Meeting House to the Harrison Grove where all things were in readiness — seats for the ladies and Revolutionary soldiers, a log house and platform for the speakers. General Wilson of New Hamp- shire addressed the audience almost two hours. . . . We all listened to him with the deepest interest and attention. Never before did I see an audience show so much of both and to such an intense degree that they often seemed unwilling to applaud for fear of losing a few of the speaker's words. We ate dinner at long tables in the woods after which we had toasts and sentiments. ... at four we came back to the green in front of Mr. Lamson's Meet- ing House. Bells were rung, cannon fired, music played." November 9, 1840, was Presidential Election Day in this campaign. Ames thus describes it: "Election day. Old Tip is sure of his election. Four P.M. it seems 643 votes were cast in this town today, a majority of 104 for Whig Electors. . . . At night a large number of Whigs met at Hazel- ton's Hotel where we kept receiving returns from the towns in Norfolk County which all showed a gain for the Whigs. As fast as the result was de- clared we cheered. At supper the two long tables were full and after the first comers had eaten an- other lot took their places. A number of bottles of [ 117] A Dedham Tavern champaign were drank. I went to bed at half past one in the morning. It rained very hard all the time, so the men that brought in the votes were wet as drowned rats." Haseltine, though landlord for less than a year, was a popular one nevertheless. The winter of 1 840-1 841 brought its full share of fun and frolic to his hotel. The following serve as illustrations : Norfolk Democrat, November 28, 1840: ''Social Ball. Those who wish to unite in a Social Ball are requested to meet at Haseltine's Hotel on Ddc. 5th at 7 P.M." Such was the success of this ball that it was resolved to have a New Year's Ball at the same place. ^ Same, December 26, 1840; "There is to be a Social Ball at Haseltine's Hotel on Jan. 6th. The Hall in this house has recently been enlarged and newly fitted up for the accommodation of dancing parties. The managers are right good ones, the music the best — Mr. Haseltine's accommodations are good and the tickets come at a reasonable price (^3). Nothing is wanted as we can see to insure a large company and a right merry time." The Managers were D. B. Farrington, Albert Morse, Samuel Davenport, C. D. Reed, Horace Bacon, William Shattuck, and Jesse Weatherbee. William Ames's Diary: "December 19, 1840. Three Swiss or Tyrolese sung last night at Hazel- tin's. About 200 present." ^ William Ames refers to it, December 31, 1840. [ 118] Martin Bates and Others Same, "December 22, 1840, a Band of Music played at Hazelton's Hotel, began 7 p.m." Same, "January 5, 1841, Engine Supper at Hazelton's, about 60 present. Mr. Richardson made a speech, some songs, toasts, etc. Very little wine drank." ^ Same, "January 6, 1841, A Ball at Haseltine's last night lasted till 4 a.m. today, about 50 couples present." Ames has spelt his landlord's name cor- rectly at last. During this same winter the Universalists held a number of meetings at "Haseltine's Hotel," lec- tures being delivered on the subject of Universal- ism by the Rev. Hosea Ballou, Rev. Emmons Part- ridge, Rev. O. A. Skinner, Mr. Whittemore, and Mr. Thompson.^ The Dedham Thief Detecting Society was or- ganized at "Hazeltine's Hotel" February 3, 1841, when the Constitution was approved with this preamble: "From the great numbers of Larcenies recently committed in this village and vicinity in no case of which the perpetrators have been discovered it seems to have become necessary that some mea- sures should be adopted which shall have for their object the more effectual suppression of the crime of Larceny and petty pilfering. . . . We have 1 See also Mann's Diary, January 4, 1841. * Norfolk Democrat, January 22 and 29, February 19 and March S, 1841. Also William Ames's Diary, December 21, 1840, January, 1841. [ 119] A Dedham T'avern argreed to unite in a Society to be called the Ded- ham Thief Detecting Society. . . . "John Bullard, "^ Committee to "Wm. H. Mann, Kdrajtthe "Austin Bryant, J Constitution.^'^ '^ The organization of the Society was followed by an adjourned meeting, February 6, 1841, at "Haz- eltine's Hotel" when the following officers were chosen: Jonathan Cobb, Moderator; President, John Bullard; Vice-President, George Ellis, 2d; Secretary, William H. Mann; Treasurer, William Ames. A "Detecting Committee" of nine was chosen, consisting of J. N. E. Mann, Hezekiah Whiting, Nathaniel A. Hewins, John H. Loring, Eliphalet Stone, Edmund Mclntire, David A. Baker, and Austin Bryant. A "Pursuing Com- mittee" of thirteen was also chosen: George Alden, William Whiting, John Cox, John H. Loring, Joshua E. Carter, Jason Guild, Reuben Farrington, Jr., Reuben S. Wilson, Benjamin Boyden, Oliver Capen, Theodore T. Kimball, Francis Alden, and John Bullard, Jr. Until 1847 the Society held its meetings at the Norfolk Hotel. It was limited to the First Parish. 2 Edmond Mclntire succeeded Haseltine as land- lord February 4, 1841. William Ames thus intro- ^ Original Records of the Society in the Dedham Historical Society. See also William Ames's Diary, February 4, 1841. * Mann's Diary, January 6, 1846. [ 120 ] Martin Bates and Others duces him : " February 4, 1 841, this morning my new- landlord, Mr. Maclntire, began operations, a sud- den move to us all." The preceding day Ames writes: "My landlord Haseltine has sold out to Reuben Farrington who cannot have bought for himself." Haseltine had contemplated leaving the Norfolk Hotel the December previous.^ The Norfolk Hotel, or "Mclntire's," as it now came to be known, continued to be the headquar- ters of the Whigs, whose champion, Harrison, had brought the campaign to a close in a blaze of glory for the party. The Whigs determined to celebrate his inauguration as President on March 4, in a be- fitting manner, and so gave a grand ball in the Nor- folk Hotel. It proved to be probably the most bril- liant spectacle ever witnessed there. Mann thus describes it in his Diary, March 4, 1841 : ''Grand Ball The Whigs of Dedham gave a Ball in honor of the success of WTiig principles and the Inauguration of Wm. Henry Harrison this day, as President of the U. S. It was decided to dance out the old administration and to dance in the new one. Accordingly the Company began to assemble at an early hour last evening at the Norfolk Hotel, (Mclntire's) and the house was soon crowded from top to bottom. The extensive Hotel was brilliantly illuminated throughout, the music was excellent, and everything conducted with order and decorum. An elegant supper was provided by the landlord, ^ William Ames's Diary, December 28, 1840. [ 121 ] A Dedham Tavern and double tables set the whole length of the din- ing hall; but it was found impossible to seat more than half the company at one time. The halls were handsomely decorated with festoons, flags and other patriotic emblems. This was my first appear- ance in a Ball room as one of the company — all my family but the youngest attended. As soon as the clock told the hour of twelve and that the reign of Van Burenism had terminated, the fact was an- nounced and three times three hearty cheers were given by the whole company for the success of the new administration. Several patriotic songs were sung." William Ames also mentions this ball in his Diary, March 4, 1841: "There was a great Whig Ball last night at Mac- Intire's Hotel at which about 120 couples were present. The Hotel was illuminated. Many Whig songs were sung and the frolic kept up till between 4 and 5 in the morning. I was a spectator merely — ate supper however with the dancers." Harrison died soon after his inauguration and John Tyler succeeded him as President. Tyler ap- pointed May 14 as the day for all Americans to do honor to Harrison's memory. Ames alludes to this occasion in his Diary, May 7, 1841: "A meeting was held last night at Maclntire's Hotel to notice the 14th of May as President Tyler has recom- mended in honour of Harrison's memory. A com- mittee of 9 was chosen to see about the arrange- [ 122 ] Martin Bates and Others merits." On the appointed day Ames writes: "The Banks and shops closed and places of worship open." President Tyler's Veto of the Tariff Bill is re- called by the first reception of the news in Dedham : "On Tuesday afternoon last as a number of our quiet citizens were regaling themselves at Mcln- tire's, up drove a man in a light gig, his horse drip- ping wet and himself bespattered with mud, whose first and most anxious wish was to get a fresh horse to carry him to Boston. He had come from Wash- ington, on express, with the President's [Tyler] Veto, and not a moment's delay could he willingly suffer. His call was promptly responded to, and he was away with speed equal to John Gilpin or Joe Fairbanks. After he was gone the news spread like wildfire that the Veto Message had gone to Boston by express." ^ Ames notes several Whig meetings at "Mc- tire's": "February 28, 1841, A Whig Caucus last night at Maclntire's — a full one." "October 2, 1841, A Whig Caucus at Mcln- tire's Hotel. Wm. Mann, Chairman, Wm. Ames, Sec'y. The following persons were chosen members of the Whig Norfolk County Convention to be held at Mclntire's Oct. 6th. to wit, Samuel C. Mann, Wm. Whiting, Wm. Ames, Joseph Day and Mer- rill D. Ellis." ^ Norfolk Democrat, August 12, 1842. [ 123 ] A Dedham 'Tavern "October 6, 1841, a Whig Norfolk County Con- vention met atMcIntire's today, 65 members voted at one time and there were more present. We nom- inated the old list of Senators again and put down money enough on the table to pay the expenses of printing votes, etc." "April 13, 1842, attended a Whig Convention at Mclntire's today. About 100 persons were there, resolutions were voted in favor of a Tariff." "July 16, 1842, we had a Whig Caucus last night at Mclntire's, chose a large Committee of Vigil- ance." ^ The Abolition movement began to make its pre- sence felt in the County about this time. Wendell Phillips, 2 William Lloyd Garrison,^ and Frederick Douglass * occasionally spoke on the subject in Dedham. The following notices connect the Nor- folk Hotel with this anti-slavery agitation : Norfolk Democrat, September 17, 1841: Notice of a meeting of the friends of the Liberty Party at Mclntire's Hotel to make nominations for the No- vember election. An editorial in the same issue describes this Liberty Party as made up of "Politi- cal Abolitionists" and warns Democrats "to be ^ For other Whig meetings see William Ames's Diary, October 16, November 3, 1841; September 10, October I and 5, November 10, 1842. * William Ames's Diary, October 30, 1841. * William Ames's Diary, May 8, 1842; Mann's Diary, April 24, 1845. * Mann's Diary, April 24, 1845. [ 124 ] Martin Bates and Others on their guard against this party which is the work of Federalism." Same, January 7, 1842: Notice of a ^^ Dedham Anti-Slavery Fair at the Hall of the Norfolk Hotel." The net proceeds amounted to $60, "which ex- ceeded the expectations of the ladies who had la- bored to get up and sustain the Fair." Another Fair, this time in aid of the Burial- Ground, was held in "Mclntire's Hall": Norfolk Democrat^ June 3, 1842: "The Ladies of the Society for the Improvement of the Burial Ground will hold a Fair at Mclntire's Hall on June 6th." An editorial, June 10, states that "the Fair was well attended — the Hall was beautifully decorated and the tables were covered with lots of useful and pretty things. The receipts amounted to $234. Hurrah for the Ladies!" The Ladies "tendered to Mr. Mclntire their thanks for the use of his Hall. His politeness and kind attention will be remembered with gratitude by all." Concerts, parties, and social assemblies con- tinued to be held in the Ballroom : William Ames's Diary ^ July 23, 1841 : "Tonight Mr. & Mrs. Hall of Boston now boarding at Macln- tire's Hotel gave quite a large party there. We had raspberries and cream, lemonade and ice creams." Mann's Diary ^ March 25, 1 841: "Concert at Mclntire's, — Old Billings music." ^ ^ For other concerts see Norfolk Democrat, July 8, 1842; September 2, 1842. [ 125 1 A Dedham 'Tavern Norfolk Democrat, December 31, 1841: ^^ Social Assemblies. A course of Assemblies will be given during the present winter, alternately at the Phoenix Hotel and Mclntire's Hotel. There will be six Assemblies in the course. . . . R. S. Wilson, Joseph Crane, Henry Waterman, George W. Tucker, Managers." An editorial on these Assem- blies states that "the music is of the tallest kind; those who have not heard it had better brush up their pumps and test its merits." Same, January 6, 1843: Notice of a social as- sembly at "Mclntire's Hotel," to which " a general invitation is extended to people in the neighboring towns." Dancing, band, collation, etc. Moses Boyd and Calvin Grover, managers. There were many assemblies in the hall during this winter, another being managed by George W. Tucker. William Ames's Diary, January 13, 1842: "A Ball tonight at Mclntire's. Almost a hundred couples. I saw Miss Cobb, Miss Hoffman and others. Though I did not dance I looked on and enjoyed the scene." Same, April 8, 1842: "There was a Ball last night at my Hotel. None of our Dedham folks were there, most of the dancers were from Boston. They kept it up till 4 in the morning. The young men hurrahed, jumped and stamped up and down stairs, some of them got drunk — a bad school to go to, my friends. The number was smaller than Mclntire expected. I don't believe he got enough to pay his expenses." [ 126] Martin Bates and Others Same, January 5, 1843: "We had a large party and dance at Mclntire's Hotel. I sate up till after 2 A.M. Mr. & Mrs. Mclntlre gave out the invita- tions. There was music, a hot supper, mirth, talk and laugh, so all went off pleasantly." ^ The last reference to the Masons meeting in the Norfolk Hotel seems to be in the Norfolk Democrat^ July 23, 1841: sv. Ace directed to assemble at MoTntire's Ho- tel in Dedhain, on Monday the iweniy-third day .t>r A ugiiat, provided with the irnplementeofjhe Jtrafur JOHN iCING. G. M. at Dedham. A. L, 5845. Mann's Diary, July 8, 1843 : "Concert this even- ing by the 'Ethiopian Serenaders.' They played and sung in character and in harmony, and ac- quitted themselves very well. The Concert was in the Hall of the Norfolk Hotel, this and last even- ings, and would have been much better attended had it not been for a company who performed a few evenings since, pretending to be the original 'Ethiopian Serenaders', but who could not sing at all, and would doubtless have been treated * For other balls see Ames's Diary, January 16 and 26, 1843, Febru- ary 6 and March 3, 1843. [ 127] A Dedham Tavern as they deserved had there been no ladies pres- ent." The Company Shoots continue, with their suppers at the Norfolk Hotel. Mann's Diary, November 23, 1841: Company- Shoot near the Old Powder House. William Fair- banks, talisman. L. Dana attended to the marks. Among the shooters were William Stearns, M. Bates, E. W. Sampson, A. Richards, T. Reed, Carey, Randall, W. H. and S. C. Mann, Joseph Whiting, William Ames, 2d, L. H. Kingsbury, and John King. After the shoot "the company ad- journed to Mclntire's Hotel where an elegant sup- per had been provided, and the poultry shot for deposited." Mann tells of another military organization which also practised target shooting: September 7, 1843: ^^ The Boston Veteran Asso- ciation, a company organized for military and social purposes, made an excursion to this village today. They appeared with full ranks under the command of Capt. Green, practised target shooting on West- ern Avenue and dined at the Norfolk Hotel. Being introduced to thecommanderasone of the ' editorial corps' of Dedham, was politely invited to a seat at the table, which invitation I did not see fit to de- cline. I gave as a toast — *The Enemies and Trait- ors to our country — when placed before our citi- zen soldiery, may it ever be their fortune, like the targets of today, to get well riddled.'' A detachment [ 128 ] Martin Bates and Others from the Boston Brass Band accompanied the Vet- erans and discoursed eloquent music at the table. The whole formed quite a pleasing deviation from the usual monotony of our quiet village." It was probably in Mclntire's time that Rufus Choate and probably Richard H. Dana had rooms at the Norfolk Hotel: "Rufus Choate, when at- tending the said session of Court, put up at the Norfolk House, then a favorite resort for the old timers." ^ In 1843 Mclntire left the Norfolk Hotel and afterwards moved to the West with his family. His son, Samuel Mclntire, in 1902 contributed his " Echoes of the Past, or the Home of my Boyhood " to the Dedham Transcript^ which gives some inter- esting memories of Dedham fifty or sixty years before : " In my mind I can see the old Norfolk House, a relic of the past, then a hotel owned and kept by one Martin Bates, 'Uncle' Bates as he was usually called — a man with some most excellent traits of character, but averse to boys devoting too much time to play; and more than once when the lads ac- cidentally kicked the football over the fence and on to his premises, he would 'cabbage' the ball, nor give it up until my mother, his adopted daugh- ter, had lectured him on his ingratitude, his little- ness as she termed It, towards the boys. Uncle Bates had only one eye, having lost the other in his * "Echoes of the Past"; Dedham Transcript, November 22, 1902. [ 129 ] A Dedham Tavern youth by a chance piece of steel while working at the trade of blacksmith. Yet the penetrating power of two eyes seemed centred in that one good eye. " In the stable of Uncle Bates, near the hotel and run in connection therewith, we boys were wont to play circus and have negro minstrel shows; and while doing so, should Uncle Bates steal in upon the scene, the show would instantly be over, and the performers scatter like rats hunting their holes. I, just to see him get a 'going over,' reporting the intrusion of Uncle Bates to my mother, who with her dander up, would administer to him her accus- tomed dose in the lecture line, which to us boys was joy sublime and fully paid us for the temporary * break up ' of our show. Once on a time when Uncle Bates hired me to pick up nails that had been drawn from a lot of old boards, and for so doing he agreed to pay me the sum of 5 cents, but which I never got because, as he said, I only half did the job. He also forgot me in his will, nor did my mother fare any better.^ . . . " In the old Norfolk House there was a bar over which liquor was publicly sold and in the broad daylight, to any and all customers; but I remember for some reason all of a sudden this public traffic in liquor was stopped, and they who wished to im- bibe the article were forced to descend a flight of stairs into a dismal and dimly lighted room in the basement of the hotel. My parents at the time 1 Dedham Transcript, August 23, 1902. [ 130 ] Martin Bates and Others lived in the hotel, and I with them. I was cognizant of the fact of a change of the location of the bar, and thought it strange. It was to evade the law. "Oh, if the walls of that old Norfolk House could speak and would, they might tell a tale that would surprise the folks now living in Dedham. At the time when is laid the date of my story, ascending the main stairs of the Norfolk House to the second floor, in the first room to the right of the hallway under the then ball room, was congregated many a night Uncle Bates and his chums. ... In this room, many a night and when the meeting was in full blast, could also be heard the click of the glasses and the sharp knock of the knuckles upon the table, as if to give emphasis to the card that was being played. In this room it was rumored that gambling went on, but how large the stakes only its inmates knew. Thus we see among those outwardly ap- parently staid men in those days the game at cards was in vogue the same as now, but not so openly. " For some time before we left for the West my father as landlord, kept the old Norfolk House."^ Ezra Jones succeeded Mclntlre as landlord April 6, 1843. William Ames first mentions him in his Diary oi that date: "Our new landlord, Mr. Jones, has begun to keep the Hotel to-day." Theliquor laws had now come to be pretty strictly enforced and some of the later landlords of the Nor- * Dedham Transcript, August 30, 1902. [ 131 ] A Dedham 'Tavern folk Hotel under Bates, beginning with Jones, were haled into Court where they found it unpro- fitable to conduct their business in violation of the law. The house gradually waned in popularity, finally falling into positive disfavor, if not disre- pute, all to the advantage of its rival, the Phoenix; so that this period, 1 843-1 866, may be said to mark the decline of the Norfolk Hotel as a tavern, as the period 1 828-1 840, under the management of Fran- cis Alden, marked the zenith of its fame. The two preceding landlords, Haseltine and Mc- Intire, kept up the good reputation of the Norfolk Hotel, but under Jones the Tavern began to run downhill, he himself later coming to grief for vi- olating the liquor laws. The Phoenix now became known as the Temperance hotel of Dedham, and the best class of patrons went there. William Ames, a very temperate man himself, cast longing eyes towards the Phoenix, and three years later took up his abode there. He thus refers to the Phoenix: "April 25, 1843, Almost all the lawyers stopt at the Phoenix Hotel because it is a Temperance House." "May 16, 1843, the Temperance men and women marched with their music and banners to the Phoenix Temperance Hotel to dine. None of them stopt at Jones' and I am glad they did not." This occasion alluded to by William Ames was a grand Temperance celebration in honor of the opening of the Phoenix House as a Temperance I 132 ] Martin Bates and Others hotel. Exercises were held in the Rev. Dr. Lam- son's Meeting-House. Mann, in his Diary of the same date, describes the occasion at some length and connects the Norfolk Hotel with the day, par- ticularly with reference to a "flag incident" which served to introduce to Dedham no less a person than Nathaniel P. Banks, afterwards distinguished as a statesman and soldier. Banks roundly abused Jones and his Norfolk Hotel, but it will be observed that Mann disagreed with his sentiments. The Diary reads: "There are three hotels in this village to each of which is attached a flag-staff, and on all festive days like this celebration, it is customary to hoist the American Stars and Stripes in honor of the oc- casion. It was so done today at the Norfolk Hotel and the Columbian House and no doubt would have been at the Phoenix were it not for the dif- ficulty of lowering the topmast in order to reeve the halliards for hoisting a flag, which had not been done since the new occupant, (Mr. Clark), had taken possession. But whether by accident or de- sign it matters but little, no flag was there. This ac- cidental circumstance was seized upon in the morn- ing by a bright looking youth (Marsh of Roxbury) who got possession of the pulpit and volunteered to denounce smartly the two landlords of the village who had thus dared to raise their flags — accusing them of ' stealing the livery of heaven to serve the devil in' and very kindly cautioned the congrega- [ 133 ] A Dedham 'Tavern tion against being lured to their destruction by this device . . . The subject thus broached was again deliberately taken up in the afternoon by one of the regularly announced speakers of the day, and the two citizens alluded to abused and pummelled in a more systematic manner, by authority. The pomp- ous individual, the Waltham Spouter, who made the cowardly attack this afternoon from the pul- pit upon the landlords who had raised flags in honor of the day was announced in the bills as 'N. P. Banks, Esq. of Waltham.' This harlequin' per- former deliberately reiterated the accusation of ''stealing' the flags, and displaying them to ''lure the temperance j oiks to their dens^ their ''hells,'' 'rum holes, 'sinks of infamy^ and the like. No temper- ate man, he said, could get into their houses — the stench of alcohol would drive them from the door; and if any had been 'lured' by the flags to put up their horses at the stables they were reprimanded and exhorted from the pulpit to patronize the Phoenix Hotel and no other. An old gentleman (P. W. Miller Esq. of Franklin) interrupted the orator during his harangue by hallooing from the anxious seats that 'he had seen the flags when he first got into the town but he had not been lured by them!' — thus verifying the old adage that 'it is hard catching old birds with chaff.' My own im- pressions — I must candidly confess that while I listened to such a tirade against my neighbors and friends, esteemed for aught I know as good and as [ 134 1 Martin Bates and Others worthy citizens as the speaker himself, I was led seriously to doubt whether such furious denuncia- tion, even if the accusations were true, could ad- vance the cause which the celebration today was os- tensibly designed to promote." Father Mathezv, the great Irish Temperance Re- former, spoke in Harrison Grove, August 17, 1849, and was in Dedham.^ Another Temperance ad- vocate, who lectured in Dedham several times, was John B. Gough} "Jones's Hotel" was certainly not a Temperance house during some of the balls given there. Three of them described in Ames's Diary will serve as evi- dence: " February 3, 1844, a Ball at our Hotel last night, 102 couples were present, they came from Boston, Walpole, Quincy and this town. The attitudes of some of them were like the pictures of a dance in one of Dickens's novels. Many of the young men I was sorry to see drank often at the bar and were quite noisy. They danced till 3 in the morning." "March 5, 1844, a Ball at our Hotel last night, near 70 couples, many of the young men drank too much, some hollered and stamped." "March 29, 1844, a Ball at Jones' Hotel. Many of the young men drank at the bar. They were from Boston. Very few of our Dedham folks * William Ames's Diary. * William Ames's Diary, December 30, 1845; Mann's Diary, April 24, 1845. I 135] A Dedham "Tavern were there. Not far from 45 couples from all the towns." Ames mentions other balls at*' Jones's Hotel," but does not comment on them.^ The following balls are mentioned in the Norfolk Democrat : January 5, 1844: "Social Ball. At the Norfolk (Jones') Hotel, on Tuesday evening next, a first rate band from Boston is engaged. Violin, Clarionet, Post Horn, Ophecleide, Harp. Tickets $2. includ- ing supper. J. Ellis, Mgr." January 26, 1844: Notice of another Social Ball at "the Norfolk Hotel (Jones')." Oliver Capen, William H. Mann, Albert Morse, Daniel Parker, J. E. Carter, Marshall Newell, Managers. March 1 , 1 844 : Notice of a " Grand Ball at Jones' Norfolk Hotel" on March 4. "Anything in the dancing way coupled with the name of Jones is always 'fust rate.' " The following are references to "Jones's Hotel" on various topics: William Ames's Diary^ May 21, 1843: "Whig Caucus at Jones's." ^ Same, September 7, 1843 : "A company of Militia came out here today in the cars to fire at a target * William Ames's Diary, April 3, 1845, January 1, 1846, March ir, 1846. ^ For other Whig meetings see William Ames's Diary, September 2, 1843, March ii and 13, 1844, April 21, August 24, 1844; October 21, 1845. Norfolk County American, January 23, 1846; Feb. 13, 1846; March 20, 1847; November 22, 1847. [ 136] Martin Bates and Others which they did with no great success. The men were stout, wore the old fashioned three cornered hats, had good music, all dined at Jones' hotel." Same, September 9, 1843: "Whig County Con- vention at Jones' Hotel. Benjamin F. Copeland, Luther Metcalf and Joseph Richards candidates for State Senate." Mann's Diary ^ November 24, 1843 : ^ "Company shoot. . . . The Company took supper at the Nor- folk Hotel, our landlord, (Jones), being lucky enough to throw the cost on to Bates' side, by his last shot being most central." Among the shooters were S. C. Mann,M. Bates, A. Richards, O. Capen, J. Chapin, C. C. Cobb,E. W. Sampson,T. T. Kimball, William H. and F. Mann, G. Alden, E. Jones, William Stearns, Dr. Heustis, Abner Alden, and E. Foord. Same, September 12, 1844: '"'' The Boston Vet- erans 3ivnved in our village this afternoon. . . . They were accompanied by a detachment of the Brass Band and appeared with full ranks. After target practice on Village Avenue the batallion pro- ceeded to Jones' Norfolk Hotel where a dinner had been ordered. . . . The veterans wore the cocked hats in vogue during the Revolution, which with the size of the portly looking members, made quite a formidable appearance." Norfolk Democrat, October 11, 1844: Reference to the "big elm near the Norfolk Hotel." Same, November 8, 1844: The Winch Family ^ See also Mann's Diary, November 19, 1844. • [ 137 1 A Dedham "Tavern announce that they will give a "Concert of Vocal Music at Jones' Hall" on November 15. William Ames's Diary, March 2, 1845: "My landlord's adopted daughter, a pretty girl about two years old, died suddenly of a fit after being sick only 12 or 15 hours. She was found by Mr. Jones wrapped up in a blanket on the steps of his Hotel when she was only a few days old. He kept her as his own. Her parents were never known." Same, March 20, 1845: "An auction sale today at Jones' Hotel of Simpson & Mears horses, wagons, chaises, sleighs, harnesses, etc." Same, April 9, 1B45: "A black man lately es- caped from slavery in Georgia lectured last night in the Town House and slept in our Hotel. He said he was very ill treated by his master." Jones gave up the Norfolk Hotel in April, 1845, finding it unprofitable to run his tavern contrary to law. In December, 1844, he was fined ^20 and costs on a complaint for violating the license laws.^ The Court Record describes this trial: "Ezra Jones, keeper of the Norfolk Hotel, was brought before Mr. Justice Cobb on complaint of Obed Baker for violation of the License law. "Alfred Prescott, on his oath testified that on the 20th of October last he purchased at Mr. Jones' bar four glasses of spirituous liquor, which he drank and paid for. "The defendant's counsel, J. Richardson Esq. ^ Norfolk Democrat, December 6, 1844. [ 138 ] Martin Bates and Others thought the witness might have been intoxicated that day. Witness replied that he had been a sea- faring man, and it took more than four glasses to get him drunk. "Mr. J ones ^ — Witness, did you not come to my house drunk, and get mad because I refused you liquor. " Witness^ — I never came to your house drunk. I might have come there three sheets in the wind. ''''Mr. J ones ^ — Yes, a good many sheets. ''''Justice^ — This Is rather irrelevant. "Defendant found guilty and fined twenty dol- lars and costs, and bound over for appearance at the next term Common Pleas." This was not Jones's first offence.^ The Hotel had become notorious as a liquor-selling establish- ment. Ames himself said "a good deal of spirit is drank at ourHotel, there is none sold at the shops. "^ He did not approve of this promiscuous dispensing of liquor by Jones and Martin Bates, and disliked them accordingly as his Diary shows. A Mr. Chamberlin and his wife next apparently take charge of the Norfolk Hotel. Jones probably left in April, 1845, for the Norfolk Democrat, April 25, 1845, says:"Weunderstand that Mr. Jones has left the Norfolk Hotel, and whether it is to be closed also, we have not inquired — it had far better be than opened again as a rum shop." ^ William Ames's Diary, December 7, 1844. * William Ames's Diary, January 18, 1844. I 139 1 A Dedham 'Tavern The Chamberlins must soon have succeeded him, for Ames writes in his Diary, May 7, 1845: "Court is in session, my Hotel is full. Mr. & Mrs. Chamberlin have charge of it. Jones & Co have gone and I am glad of it." The Chamberlins did not remain long. Ames, August 30, 1845, writes of "my landlady," very likely meaning Mrs. Chamberlin. There being no new landlord available, Martin Bates became landlord himself, running the hotel for about a year. He bitterly opposed the license laws which diminished his profits. The following letter to the Norfolk Democrat ^ discusses his posi- tion on the temperance question: " Mr. Editor, — In a recent number of your paper you stated that the proprietor of the Norfolk Hotel ' had been a consistent opposer of the Temperance movement forever and a day beyond.' Is this as- sertion strictly true.? Did not Mr. Bates, in order to purify the Upper Village from the baneful in- fluence of alcohol, purchase a few years since, all the liquors in the store of N. Clapp, and caused them to be removed to this village. It is reported that he even threatened to break down the business of the store unless the sale of spirits was discon- tinued. Evil minded men say his reason for making the above purchase was purely selfish, viz: to pre- vent his hired man from indulging in its use to his 1 September 5, 1845. [ 140 ] Martin Bates and Others detriment, and one of his neighbors from making too free use of his dexter digits. The old adage, 'give the devil his due,' is founded in justice, and if ever a man does one good action, don't endeavor by impeaching his motives to deprive him of the credit thereof." In the following year (1846) Bates's disregard of the liquor laws got him into trouble, for we find this entry in Mann's Diary. ^ "Mr. Bates of the Nor- folk Hotel was found guilty of violations of the Li- cense law, on one indictment containing six counts, two of which were nol-prossed, convicted on four counts." At times the Tavern is referred to as "Bates's Hotel." 2 William Ames makes the following discouraging allusions to his hotel, prophetic of his early change of abode to the Phoenix: "November 27, 1845, my Hotel looks more de- solate and forlorn than usual. Three of the board- ers have left it — no wonder." "January 12, 1846, my Hotel is solitary, dull and cold." On September 19, 1846, he moved to the Phoenix which remained his home for many years. On that * September 26, 1846. * Records of Dedham Thief Detecting Society, January 6, 1846. William Ames's Diary, March l6, 1846; May 14, 1846. Records of the Society in Dedham for Apprehending Horse Thieves, November 24, 1846. [ 141 ] A Dedham Tavern date he writes: "I am at the Phoenix Hotel, in Chamber 17." A few days later ^ he gives this parting shot in his Diary at his late landlord, leaving the name blank: "My late landlord, , having been prosecuted for selling ardent spirit contrary to law, sent his hostler to buy some alcohol of G. Alden, ordering him to say it was wanted to wash the sore leg of his horse. As Alden had a right to sell it for medical purposes he did so and was immediately complained of by , but the District Attor- ney on finding the truth of the case very properly refused to prosecute. Thus malice, sly and calcu- lating as it was, failed in its attempt." One Fish, seems to be the next landlord, for the Norfolk County American has this editorial: ^ "The Norfolk House, under the management of friend Fish^ is meeting that favor and encouragement which its enterprising and courteous landlord would necessarily insure." Fish soon gave up his lease and by November, 1846, the Tavern is again referred to as "Bates's Hotel." 3 For the year 1847 there seems to be but one event chronicled in connection with the Norfolk Hotel, and that in Mann's Diary^ November 22, 1847. On that day there was an election in Dedham * September 25, 1846. * August 22, 1846. * Norfolk County American, November 28, 1846. [ 142] Martin Bates and Others for Representative to the General Court, there having been no choice at the preceding two trials. The Whigs had previously met at the Norfolk Hotel, and although they nominated Edward L. Keyes as their candidate, a considerable portion of the party refused to support him. On November 20, another meeting was held at the Norfolk Hotel by those Whigs friendly to Mr. Keyes and resolu- tions in his favor were unanimously adopted, but, says Mann, "while the meeting was in session a Committee of five gentlemen entered, who stated they were deputated by another meeting then in session in the same house to see if all would unite upon some person." The plan failed and Mr. Keyes then declined to stand as a candidate. The Whigs having no regular candidate, Ezra Wilkinson, the Democratic candidate, was chosen November 22. A new landlord appears in the person of one Carter^ who seems to have been a pretty good sort of a man. The following are references to the Tav- ern under his management: Norfolk Democrat, February 11, 1848: Notice of a ball to be given at the "Norfolk Hotel." ''Mr. Carter — who is second to no landlord — provides supper for the party." Same, June 23, 1848: Notice of a series of lec- tures to be delivered by the Rev. Henry Giles "at the Hall of the Norfolk Hotel." First lecture on "Womanhood," second on "Robert Burns." I 143 ] A Dedham 'Tavern Same, September 29, 1848: Notice of a meeting of the Free soil Committee at the "Norfolk Hotel"; F. W. Bird, Chairman. William Ames in his Diary ^ speaks well of Carter and his charity towards a poor, sick boarder, a Miss Whitney, who died in the Tavern of consumption. ABRAHAM LINCOLN Lincoln visited Dedham September 20, 1848, for the purpose of aiding the Whig candidates for the Presidency, Taylor and Fillmore. This' was a marked day in the history of Dedham. First came the Eighth District Convention when Horace Mann was renominated for Congress. Then fol- lowed the Norfolk County Whig Convention, hold- ing its meeting at the Norfolk Hotel. The Boston Atlas, September 22, 1848, says of this convention: ^^ Norfolk County Whig Convention "Pursuant to a call from the County Committee, the Whig delegates from the several towns in the County assembled at the Norfolk Hotel, Dedham (and afterwards at Temperance Hall), for the pur- pose of nominating candidates for the Senate and also for choosing a County Committee for the en- suing year." At this convention Hon. James Richardson was elected its President. In the afternoon Lincoln arrived in Dedham and * August 4, 1848. [ 144 1 Martin Bates and Others spoke in Temperance Hall, Court Street, a few steps from the Norfolk Hotel, where it is not improbable he was entertained for a brief time, not only as the day was very warm, but the Norfolk Hotel seemed to have been the headquarters of the Whigs that day. At this time Lincoln, although a member of Congress, was not very well known. His debate with Douglas, which first brought him fame, had not yet taken place. It may be interesting to note what the news- papers had to say of Lincoln's reception in Dedham this day. The Norfolk Democrat, an opposition paper, it will be noted, says in an editorial: ^ "Wednesday was a marked day in the calendar of Taylorism in old Norfolk — and if the old Al- manac maker had been alive and present, he would undoubtedly have set it down as a dark day. The day was marked by four phases, or rather by four squares of patchwork — which this quilting party had got together to make themselves a comforter — and the general impression was, 'let them quilt.' "The first piece of the performance was the District Convention . . . "The second act in the drama of the day was the County Convention . . . "The third act in the play was the second meet- ing of the Dedham Whig Club at Temperance Hall to listen to an address from the Hon. A. Lincoln, M.C. from Illinois. At four o'clock from 12 to 20 ^ September 22, 1848. [145] A Dedham "Tavern of our citizens went to the depot to meet delega- tions from Roxbury and Dorchester Taylor Clubs and the Hon. Western member of Congress. A pro- cession was formed of about lOO, and marched through the streets accompanied by the Dorchester Band of musicians. When opposite the Phoenix House 19 individuals mustered courage enough to tell the procession that they could hurrah three times. We believe the procession was not inter- rupted by cheers again till they arrived at the Hall. "Mr. Lincoln was received with a good deal of enthusiasm by about a fifth of the audience, who appeared to do all the applause. The speaker was limited as to time and therefore did not recite his whole speech. What he said was in praise of Gen. Taylor and against Mr. Van Buren, saying but very little against Cass except he was worth a million and a half dollars. He said Mr. Van Buren could not carry a majority of votes in any County in the United States, and yet he directed his battery to him exclusively. We did not hear him through, but presume he gave great satisfaction to the Taylorites present. He was escorted to the Depot by the Ded- ham Whig Club and a band of music, and after he had left, 51 men and boys marched back again to the Hall. "In the evening, as was announced in the bill of the play, came off the fourth piece of patchwork, and this was called the Ratification Meeting." The officers of the Dedham Whig Club referred [ 146 1 Martin Bates and Others to were: President, Hon. James Richardson; Vice- Presidents, Ezra W. Taft, Alvan Fisher, John Gardner; Secretaries, Enos Foord, George H. Mon- roe; Treasurer, Abiathar Richards; Directors, Samuel C. Mann, Stephen Bates, Merrill D. Ellis, John King, George Winslow, William Smith, Oliver Capen, Carmi Richmond, Charles Ellis, Eben S. Fisher.^ The Roxbury Gazette, another opposition paper, says : ^ "The friends and supporters of the Slaveholders' Candidate for the Presidency and others held their County and District Convention on Wednesday at Dedham. . . . The Hon. Abraham Lincoln of Illinois came out in the cars at half past three p.m. with fifty-one persons, who, we presume from the posters, were drummed up for a demonstration. The procession, escorted by the Dedham Taylor Club composed of from twelve to fifteen persons, was indeed a melancholy display. But it will ap- pear brilliantly enough in the Atlas. It could not, however, do injury to the cause. That is past hurt. We have no doubt that both Conventions were satisfactory to the parties interested. We only re- gret that they cannot be repeated in every town in this County and District previous to the election." A Dedham correspondent to the Boston Atlas, says: ^ * Boston Atlas, September 21, 1848. » September 23, 1848. ' Boston Atlas, September 21, 1848. [ 147] A Dedham Tavern "While I write, a delegation from Roxbury is just marching to the Hall, preceded by a full band of music and appropriate banners. The Hon. Mr. Lincoln, of Illinois, is expected to address the meeting. There is a good deal of enthusiasm, and a good spirit prevails here." The Dedham Transcript^ quoting an eye-witness, says of Lincoln's visit: ^ "Mr. Lincoln in Dedham "Hon. George H. Monroe, a well known Boston newspaper man, and we believe a native of Dedham, thus writes of Mr. Lincoln's visit to this town 53 years ago. "Mr. Monroe, who had never heard of Lincoln previous to that day, escorted him from the Tre- mont House, Boston, to Dedham. As Lincoln en- tered the old Providence depot, on Pleasant St., he must have stepped on the very spot now occu- pied by the fine statue of himself in the act of free- ing the slave, which stands in Park Square. Mr. Monroe's first impression of Lincoln was not par- ticularly favorable. He was awkward and appa- rently ill at ease, scarcely uttering a word during his half hour trip to Dedham, where they arrived about 4 p. M. At one of the finest private houses in the town,^ to which the visitor was escorted by a ^ February i6, 1901. * The old Haven House, corner of High and Ames streets, owned in 1912 by Mrs. John R. BuUard; also known as the "Freeman Fisher House." [ 148 Martin Bates and Others brass band, he appeared even more ill at ease than before, and the natural inference seemed to be that he found the atmosphere 'this side of the moun- tains' entirely uncongenial. When the party ar- rived at the little hall (Temperance Hall), late in the afternoon, it was found to be but half full, and with an apparently stupid and morose speaker it was thought the jig was up. 'But,' says Mr. Mon- roe, 'the moment Mr. Lincoln began to speak there was a change. He was no longer indifferent, but started off with fine effect.' Pretty soon he turned up the sleeves of his black alpaca sack coat, then he turned up the cuffs of his shirt, and by and by he loosened his necktie, and wound up by taking it off altogether, the enthusiasm of his rural lis- teners rising steadily as the transformation pro- gressed. The speaker bubbled over with humor, told funny stories of western life to illustrate points in his argument, and talked to his auditors in the most familiar and off-hand way imaginable. Sud- denly after he had been talking half an hour, a locomotive bell on a train about to start for Bos- ton was heard. Lincoln stopped and said he had to speak in Cambridge in the evening, and must run for the train. Cries of 'No! No!' 'Don't Stop!' came from all over the hall, and one man promised to hitch up his nag and take the speaker to Cam- bridge later, but Lincoln said 'I have kept my word with you and I must do the same by the Cambridge people; I can't afford to take any [ 149 ] A Dedham "Tavern chances,' and he went, attended by every evidence of genuine regret on the part of the Dedhamites." From this period (1848) until 1866, when St. Mary's School took possession, the Norfolk Hotel suffered much in reputation and fell into public disfavor, though balls, assemblies, and dances were often given there, the Ballroom with Its spring floor being an ideal place for these gatherings. Part of the time the house remained closed for want of a landlord and part of the time Martin Bates acted as such himself when he could not rent It. The Phoenix House now became unquestionably the popular public house in Dedham and remained so until its destruction by fire in 1880. The Society in Dedham for Apprehending Horse Thieves, which had held its annual meetings uninterruptedly In the Norfolk Hotel since its organization in 1810, transferred Its headquarters to the Phoenix House in 1850.^ On the opposite page is a photograph of an 1843 poster of this Society, given the author by Francis Marsh, Esq., of Dedham, grandson of Martin Marsh. Many of thenames recorded within these pages are found on this poster. Not long after Lincoln's visit to Dedham the Norfolk Hotel seems to have been closed to the public for a year or more. May 9, 1849, William Ames says: "Today they are selling the furniture of the Norfolk Hotel by auction — it goes at low * Norfolk Democrat, November 29, 1850. [ 150] SOCIETY IN DEDHAM FOR APREHENDIN6 Horse Thieves.1 OFFICERS FOR 1843. FRAI\CIS ALDEi^, President. JOH.lf BALCH, Jr., Vice President. ]?IARTIx\ MARSH, Treusut'ei'. JOHx> BILLARD, Clerk. Standms: Cmmnittee* im ABNER ELLIS. W, MARTIN BATES, rX-t JOHN BOLLARD, afe ABIATHAR RICHARDS, mj. WM. FAIRBANKS, 2d. GEORGE ELLIS, 2d, JOSKPH FISHER, JOHN MORSE, LEWIS RHOADES, LEMUEL DANA, Riders. Theodore T. Kimball, Reuben Farrington jr. ColburD Ellis, Joseph Sumner, William Smith, Nathaniel A. Hewins, $ Reuben Guild, 2d. ^ Jabez Sumeer, ^ Obed Baker, 4 Jesse Weatlierbee, Edmund Mclntire, ^ Joel Richards, OLIVER CAPEN, EZRA W. SAMPSON, MARTIN MARSH. ^ Aaron Clark, i John Balch, Jr. ^ Eliphalet Stone, I Elijah Bullard, ^ Isaa * Ellis. mAmrn^ ®w mmmmmmB, Benjamii, BoyJ,™ SoloniDn Kr.^'c. Ed.nnorl MclDh, Ja-nu Fm , Guild hm Ga.l i'i^^^^[^i^if^i^|^^^^^'^^l OCIETY IN DEDHAM FOR APPREHENDING HORSE THIEVES, 1843 Martin Bates and Others prices." The Norfolk Democrat, June I, 1849, says: "There is but one temperance hotel in Dedham village since the Norfolk has been closed." And again in Mann's Diary, September 26, 1849, he speaks of a ball at the Phoenix Hotel, "this being the only public hotel in the place at this time." Again in the Norfolk Democrat, February 22, 1850: "It is rumored that the Norfolk Hotel is about to be reopened. Some people in this part of the village have expressed a regret, for the sole rea- son that they shall not always know where to find the butcher wagon." It was in fact soon reopened, for in the same paper, June 21, 1850, L. Stimson gives notice of a "Day School for the instruction of Young Ladies, Masters and Misses in Dancing at the Hall of the Norfolk House, Dedham. . . . Pupils will be taught Waltzing in all its variety, the National Bohemian Polka, the Mazourka, the National Schottische Dance, the Redoway, Bril- liants and Waltz Quadrilles. Particular attention will be paid to improve the manners and deport- ment of his pupils, which is a very important partof this branch." At about this time or a little later, Miss Harriet Jones also had a school for dancing here which she continued for a few seasons. For the next fifteen years the newspapers have little to say of the Norfolk Hotel. The following are a few references: William Ames's Diary, April 20, 1850: "The [151] A Dedham 'Tavern Norfolk Hotel is to be reopened in a few days by a man of experience." Norfolk Democrat, August 23, 1850: Notice of a meeting of the Norfolk Agricultural Society at the "Norfolk Hotel"; Edward L. Keyes, Secretary. Same, January 17, 1851: Notice of a meeting at the Norfolk Hotel of the "Contributors to the Social Supper to be given to the several organized Engine and Hook and Ladder Companies and Fire- wards in the First Parish"; Samuel C. Mann, Eben S. Fisher, Martin Bates, Committee. Same, March 14, 1851: Landlord of the "Nor- folk Hotel" convicted on four complaints and fined for selling liquor illegally. The witnesses testified that they went "down cellar" for their liquor. Mann's Diary, September 12, 1851: ^^ Firemen' s Muster. A portion of the Fire companies of Ded- ham had a splendid voluntary parade in this vil- lage today, under direction of the Firewards. The line of march was formed at 9^ a.m. commencing at Pitt's Head on High St. extending towards the Phoenix House. Present Co's. i, 3, 4, 7, 8, 9, 10, with their engines. . . . On arriving at the Key Bridge, at Powder House, the line for playing and trial of engines was formed in the meadows adjacent to the Rock, the exercises began and occupied some 2 or 3 hours. . . . Leaving their engines on the ground about 2 p.m. the whole marched in procession to dinner — most of the companies making their headquarters at the [ 152] Martin Bates and Others Phoenix, — others at the Norfolk, etc. There were present, on this occasion at the different tables nearly 400 mostly connected with the Fire Dept. . . . The Powder House Rock was decorated today with the fairest of our fair villagers, to witness the exploits of the firemen in line on the plat before them, on the margin of the river Charles. They must be remembered in a toast, — The Ladies^ — encouraged by their smiles, the fireman fears no foe; and can only be subdued when combatting fires of their own kindling." This is the last reference to our Tavern by Her- man Mann, for he died two months later. Norfolk Democrat, December 5, 1851: Attempt at incendiarism in the "stable belonging to the Norfolk House." November 18, 1853: Company Shoot. Dinner at "Norfolk Hotel." 1 From this time the Tavern is almost always re- ferred to as the Norfolk House and not Hotel. Norfolk Democrat, December 9, 1854: "Dress making taught by Miss Gray at her rooms in the Norfolk House, Dedham." Same, May 22, 1858: "Mrs. Addison, M.D. Medical Reformer and Independent Clairvoyant. This celebrated lady, who has gained a wide reputa- tion in the practice of medicine, has taken rooms at the Norfolk House, Dedham. She cures patients thought to be impossible." * From Company Shoots, by Alvan J. Fisher and Allen Howe. [153I A Dedham Tavern Now comes a period when Martin Bates en- deavored to rid himself of the Tavern, which had become an incubus on his hands. April 15, 1858, he sold the property to Samuel R. Bickner, of Dedham/ the consideration stated being $6500, taking back a mortgage for $4500. BIckner did not prove successful as landlord, however, and Bates had trouble In collecting his interest. The town taxes became overdue, and finally Bates was obliged to take a tax deed, November 18, 1862.2 June 12, 1858, James Richardson, a prominent citizen of Dedham and a frequent visitor at the Norfolk Hotel, died. He graduated from Harvard in 1797 and became a distinguished lawyer. For a time he was law partner of Fisher Ames when both were stanch Federalists. He was a member of the Senate, a Trial Justice, President of the Norfolk Mutual Fire Insurance Company, and President of the Norfolk Bar. The landlords under BIckner during his short ownership of the Norfolk Hotel were one Grossman and Benjamin Allstrum, of Providence. BIckner would fill In the gaps when there was no other land- lord. There is an amusing story concerning Grossman and Bates, both of whom were keen business men. They became joint owners of a moose which they ^ Norfolk Registry of Deeds, Book 265, p. 34. * Norfolk Registry of Deeds, Book 3 10, p. 229. [ 154 1 Martin Bates and Others kept in the yard of the Norfolk Hotel. Grossman fed the animal and understood its habits — Bates did not. After a while the former wanted to pur- chase Bates's half-interest, but the latter refused to sell except for a large sum. Finally Grossman hit upon a plan. He changed the diet of the moose from browse of the woods which it liked to hay which it did not like. The animal in consequence grew thin so rapidly that Bates soon noticed the change and began to ask questions. Grossman casually remarked that the moose was homesick and might die; whereupon Bates, anxious to get some return on his investment, gladly sold his in- terest to his partner for a trifling amount. Gross- man then fed browse instead of hay to the moose, which quickly regained its weight and was later sold to a circus for a good round sum, much to Bates's chagrin. As an example of the disturbances which occa- sionally at this period caused the reputation of the Norfolk Hotel to suffer in comparison with its more orderly rival, the Phoenix, I quote from William Ames's Diary , September 1 1, i860: "Last night the Irish of Dedham and Roxbury had a ball at Tem- perance Hall; about 2 o'clock in the morning they went into the barroom of the Norfolk Hotel and being heated with whiskey got into a fight in which numbers of them were badly bruised, and four of them stabbed, one dangerously. A magistrate is now examining those accused of getting up the [1551 A Dedham 'Tavern riot." The next day Ames writes: "Three or four of the men engaged in the fight are in jail." Of this same affair the Dedham Gazette of Sep- tember 15, i860, says: "This is we trust the cul- mination of a series of disturbances of the peace which have given great offence to the order loving citizens of the town, and which have too often during the present season rendered night hideous. In times past this village has been noted for the quiet and good order which has prevailed within its limits; but since the opening of the Norfolk House as a hotel, and particularly since the com- mencement of the work upon the Court House, the character of the village has decidedly suffered." Another fracas is mentioned by William Ames in his Diary ^ August 28, 1 861 : " Last Monday a woman who was standing at the kitchen door of the Nor- folk Hotel received a violent blow in the pit of her stomach and was in spasms for a long time. It seems that she had a dispute with two women a few days ago, one of whom is strongly suspected of hav- ing thrown a large stone at her." Note the following references to the Hotel : Dedham Gazette, January 15, 1859: "A key to the south door of Dr. Lamson's meeting house will be kept hereafter at the Norfolk House. In case of fire Mr. Bickner will hand it to any responsible person who may volunteer to officiate as bell- ringer." Same, August 4, i860: "The Coachwill leave the [ 156] Martin Bates and Others Norfolk House, Dedham, at 9.30 a.m. and 3.15 P.M. connecting with the Metropolitan R. R. at Jamaica Plain for Boston. De Rochemont and Kenny, Proprietors." Same, December 14, 1861: Dr. W. Hazeltine, dentist, at "Norfolk House, Dedham." The Ballroom, with its fine spring floor, was so superior to the one at the Phoenix that even at this time many balls and parties were given here, at- tended by the best people of Boston and Norfolk County. During the Civil War the Ballroom was occa- sionally the scene of military displays. The Hon. Frederick D. Ely, of Dedham, attended a review by Governor Andrew of Colonel Robert G. Shaw's Fifty-fourth Regiment of colored troops at Read- ville, and in the evening was a spectator of a grand ball given at the Norfolk Hotel by the soldiers of that famous regiment. Mr. Ely roomed in the ell of the Hotel from 18 59-1 862. He remembers that during these years many of the judges, lawyers, jurors, and parties to suits boarded and lodged here during Court Session. Dedham furnished her full quota of soldiers for the War. Many of her sons died on the battle-field, and their names are recorded in the Dedham Me- morial Hall. During the War and preceding it martial and other patriotic displays were frequent in Dedham. One in particular is referred to in William Ames's [ 157] A Dedham "Tavern Diary, October 23, i860: "The Lincoln Wide Awakes had another torch light procession in the town last night. About 1500 of them marched through the streets to Agricultural Hall, where they had a collation. Many of the houses were il- luminated, our Phoenix among the rest. So many hundreds of torches made a fine show. Many Lin- coln men came here from Boston and the towns in the vicinity." Not only the Phoenix, but the Nor- folk Hotel as well, must have entertained many of the members of this procession. Charles H. Este of Boston seems to have been one of the last landlords and apparently the general character of the Tavern did not improve, as may be gathered from this notice in the Dedham Gazette, December 23, 1865: "2 or 3 serious rows in and about the Norfolk House in this town during the past week resulted in the arrest of the proprietor [Este], who, with his wife, is bound over for further examination on Tuesday next." Este was found guilty of maintaining a common nuisance.^ * Dedham Gazette, December 30, 1865 and following. fh,,i.„i,ai,hr.n,y.lohH F. (:inl,l. Ih.lh, THE NORFOLK HOTEL, 1866-1905 VII Saint Mary^s School and Asylum, 1866-IQOS AFTER being a tavern for over sixty years, the Norfolk Hotel, or Norfolk House, as it was now usually called, became a Roman Catholic institution. By deed dated June i, 1866, Martin Bates con- veyed the " land, with the Norfolk House (so called) standing thereon," to Ann Alexis Shorb, Andrea Corry, and Aloysia Reed, all of Boston, Trustees for Saint Mary's School and Asylum, on condition that the premises " shall always be used for the pur- poses set forth in said articles of association of said Saint Mary's School and Asylum." ^ The "articles of association" referred to appear in the Agreement of Association of May 28, 1866 (a few days prior to the above conveyance), when Saint Mary's School and Asylum was organized as follows: "Be it remembered that the undersigned, resident within the Commonwealth of Massachu- setts, hereby agree to associate themselves pur- suant to Chap. 32 of the General Statutes of Massachusetts as a corporation for the purpose of establishing and maintaining an Orphan Asylum and School under the charge of the Sisters of * Norfolk Registry of Deeds, Book 344, p. 10. [159] A Dedham T^avern Charity as founded by St. Vincent de Paul, and for visiting the sick and instructing the ignorant and promoting virtue, learning and piety in the town of Dedham, under the name of Saint Mary's School and Asylum." Signed by Ann Alexis Shorb, Joanna Andrea Corry, Margaret Ann Vincent Mc- Closky, Mary Frances Quirk, Mary Ann Aloysia Reed, and Dolores Mahoney.^ It is said that Martin Bates, through spite, on account of a quarrel with the town officials, made a gift of his hotel to Saint Mary's School and Asy- lum. "Once on a time the town of Dedham desired to purchase the Norfolk House from Uncle Bates for town purposes; and because the town would not pay Uncle Bates his price, he, in a spirit of vindictive- ness, gave it to some religious organization under certain conditions." ^ The Dedham Gazette makes mention of this trans- fer in an editorial:^ " Important transfer of real estate. The Norfolk House estate has been conveyed by Martin Bates to certain Sisters of Charity, as Trustees for St. Mary's School and Asylum. . . . The deed was given in consideration of $\. and other good con- sideration, and upon the condition that the pre- mises shall always be used for the purposes set forth in the articles of association. It is understood * Norfolk Registry of Deeds, Book 343, p. 34. * "Echoes of the Past"; Dedham Transcript, August 23, 1902. » July 7, 1866. [ 160] Saint Marfs School that the premises were a voluntary gift to the cor- poration by Mr. Bates, although we cannot learn that he was actuated therein by any attachment to the Romish faith. . . . The buildings are much out of repair and when offered at public auction about a year since no bid could be obtained for the estate higher than the amount of the mortgage. "Whatever prejudices may naturally exist against the establishment of a Roman Catholic School in so central a location, the community cannot but feel that the transformation of a build- ing recently used only for the indiscriminate sale of liquors into an institution founded for ' promoting virtue, learning and piety in the town of Dedham' is an object worthy only of the most exalted mo- tives, and in this view should be accepted as a public blessing." It may be here interesting to note that on the land originally granted in 1636 to Ezekiel Holliman, a Baptist and an apostle of freedom of thought, there stood in 1866 a Unitarian Church, a Congre- gational Church, an Episcopal Church, and finally a School of the Sisters of Charity, established by the Roman Catholic Church. On the same ground was also the site of the first free public school in Dedham. The Sisters of Charity soon met with favor, as may be seen from the following editorial : * > Dedham Gazette ^ August 4, 1866. 161 A Dedham Tavern " The new Catholic Institution in Dedham "Three Sisters of Charity arrived in this town on the 20th ultimo to take possession of the estate known as the Norfolk House, lately donated to them by Martin Bates for a School and Asylum. Their respective names are Sisters Catherine (Superior- ess) of Syracuse, N. Y., Sister Veronica of Troy, N. Y., and Sister Anselm of Chicago, 111. They are much pleased with their new home and have met with unqualified marks of favor from all with whom they have had the honor to become ac- quainted. All seem to extend to them a hearty wel- come, and if we may judge from the presents and donations they are receiving, they will soon be able not only to make the Norfolk House a comfortable abode, but also render it more ornamental to that conspicuous part of the village in which it is lo- cated. We hope they will meet with that success ever attendant upon self sacrificing heroines in the great cause of charity and the diffusion of Christian knowledge. They intend, for the support of the in- stitution, to carry on schools nearly in all respects similar to the common school system of public edu- cation. They also propose in the future opening a High School. Girls alone are taught by the Sisters of Charity. We hope every success may crown their labors in the town of Dedham." In the following year (1867) sixty children at- [ 162 1 Saint Marfs School tended the School and ten orphans were provided with a comfortable home.^ In 1 87 1 the attendance was the same and the institution continued not only to flourish, but to improve. I quote from the Dedham Tran- script : ^ "This institution continues not only to flourish, but to improve. Occupying as it does a building that was once a public house or tavern in the cen- tral part of the village, brings it somewhat more prominently before the people than if it had been established in some more humble edifice. . . . We are told that never have the teachings of the Sisters been more practical in their tendencies than now, and never have the workings of the school been more harmonious. The course of study remains the same as during the previous year, but conducted with even greater spirit and efficiency than before. The average attendance is about sixty, which we believe is unparalleled in the history of the institu- tion. One thing about this school claims particular notice. Many of the scholars who have been as- sisted could not have received benefit in any other way as their time is employed during the regular school hours. It is with a feeling akin to pride that we sat through the exercises on Thursday afternoon of last week, and we think it must be admitted on all hands that the St. Mary's School has proved a 1 Dedham Gazette, May 18, 1867. 2 Dedham Transcript, July 8, 1871. [ 163 ] A Dedham "Tavern potent means of elevating the foreign class, both intellectually and morally. "The entrance of the scholars, all girls, into the hall, two by two, dressed in white, was a pleasing feature of the afternoon; the smaller girls leading off, and Mrs. Featherstone playing a march upon the piano. The next exercise was the crowning of the following named young ladies by the Rev. Father Brennan, with wreaths of artificial flowers:" Here follow their names. The Sisters had a great deal to contend with after their arrival in Dedham, owing to the lack of funds necessary to carry out the objects of their institution.^ Fairs, concerts, and other entertain- ments were given in order to raise money.^ One Fair is said to have realized to the School about ^2000.3 "Exhibition at St. Mary's School. The neatness, the cleanliness, the comfort and the unwearied at- tention of the ' Sisters ' to their protegees we can cer- tify to from personal observation." ^ The School continued until 1879, when, owing to the precarious support accorded, it was closed on June 27: ^ "The St. Mary's School closed on the 27th ult. at 8 o'clock a.m. with a private distribu- 1 Dedham Gazette, May i8, 1867. 2 Dedham Transcript, July 18, 1874; October 26, 1878; April 26, 1879. ' Dedham Transcript, September 5, 1874, * Dedham Transcript, July 4, 1874. * Dedham Transcript, July 5, 1879. I 164] Saint Marfs School tion of premiums. A few selections of vocal and instrumental music were finely rendered, after which the beloved Pastor, Rev. R. J. Johnson, con- ferred honors on the most proficient in their respec- tive classes." The Sisters of Charity left Dedham soon after the closing of the School: "The Sisters of Charity, not having met with that encouragement they really deserved, have left Dedham for the present. People of all sects and conditions are free to admit the great good done by the ladies during their sojourn here and we have no doubt that efforts will be made to continue the School according to the pro- visions of Mr. Bates's will. Various statements in relation to the property have been circulated, but there can be no immediate change unless the project for which the Sisters have so assiduously labored is at once and forever abandoned. This is not likely to be the case." ^ The Rev. Edward W. Virgin, in The Old Norfolk House, states that the Lady Superiors of Saint Mary's School were Sisters Mary Ann Alexis, Mary Frances and Mary Vincent; that the teachers were Sisters Mary Josephine, Mary Martin, Mary Gene- vieve, Mary Theotina, Mary Victorina and Mary Vincent; and that other teachers were associated with them from time to time. Since the School was given up in 1879 until 1905, when the premises were bought by Charles H. Gif- 1 Dedham Transcript, August 23, 1879. [ 165 ] A Dedham "Tavern ford, the building or portions of it were occupied by various people for office, residence, and storage pur- poses, and private schools held their sessions here. John Cahill, of Dedham, occupied the house as caretaker from August, 1879, to April, 1903, his daughter, Mary Cahill, continuing to hold the house and collect the rentals. In 1884, one Dr. A. H. Stewart occuped "Room 6" as his office." ^ Miss Lucy Lee Fessenden had a private school here from 1884 to 1889, during which time the building was known as the "Sisters' Building," ^ or "Sisters' School Building." ^ "The patronage her school received being sufficient proof of its ex- cellence." * In 1889, Miss Sybil E. Rolland "opened a kinder- garten for little children in the old Norfolk House on Court St." 5 Miss Sarah Breck Baker also had a private school here for a few years. Beginning with ten pupils, her number increased considerably, reaching at one time a maximum of thirty, ages ranging from five to fifteen years. ^ Miss Marietta Marden, dressmaker, Bernard Schermerhorn, Percival Gassett, Philip Glidden, ' Dedham Transcript, February 9, 1884. * Dedham Transcript, August 29, 1885, » Dedham Transcript, August 22, 1885. * Slafter's Schools and Teachers of Dedham. * Dedham Transcript, October 26, 1889. ' Slafter's Schools and Teachers ojf Dedham. [ 166] THE BALL ROOM, 1905 Saint Mary^s School and others had rooms here. It was here also that Miss Clara Perry had her studio. During this period (1879 to 1905), owing to lack of funds, the house became sadly out of repair, the Ballroom especially so. The roof of the ell was full of holes, the plastering gone in many places and the famous spring floor fairly rotted away. During the winter snow and rain beat in and then freezing furnished an impromptu skating-rink for children, a decided contrast to the days when the Ballroom was considered one of the best in New England "and from far and near parties of quality came to try the celebrated spring floor and the elegant game suppers following a royal dance." ^ The original Trustees of Saint Mary's School and Asylum being now all dead, and there being but one member of the corporation alive, the Legisla- ture was appealed to and the corporation was re- vived and authorized to sell its property free from the trusts and provisions in Bates's deed.^ As time went on, there was a failure to pay the town taxes which had been assessed to John Cahill as occupant, and a tax sale of the Norfolk Hotel re- sulted in 1903. There was also failure to pay the yearly land rental of $60, and formal entry and pos- session were taken to secure this rent by the First Church in Dedham. This rent having been paid by the Rev. Robert J. Johnson, a new lease on the lines of present ownership was made out to him on Jan- ^ Dedham Transcript, March 6, 1909. * Chap. 436, Acts 1901. [ 167] A Dedham Tavern uary 12, 1905,^ for the unexpired term of 999 years of the original leases; and the latter conveyed to Charles H. GIfFord, June 19, 1905,^ subject to a rental of ^60 a year to the First Church for the un- expired portion of the original 999-year lease. Mr. GIfford also bought the "Griggs estate," so called, owned by Theodore P. Spindle, adjoining the rear of the Norfolk Hotel land and fronting on Bullard Street. This land was also subject to a ground rental to the First Church. The Land Court ap- proved these proceedings and a Decree of Regis- tration Issued August 28, 1906, all claims of the heirs of Martin Bates being denied. ^ Norfolk Registry of Deeds, Book 991, p, 305. 2 Norfolk Registry of Deeds, Book 1002, p. 383. VIII Charles H. Giford, igo5-iQio CHARLES H. GIFFORD, the new owner, undertook to Itransform the old house into a handsome residence for himself and fam- ily, and he began the work none too soon. The place had been so long neglected it had become a public eyesore in a very prominent quarter of the town. From the Dedham Transcript: ^ "The Old Norfolk House on Court St. is to be remodelled and made into a commodious private residence. Charles H. Gifford's first thought was to tear down the building and erect a modern house, but upon inspection it was found that the walls, foundation and main tim- bers of the old house were in a good state of pre- servation, and that the interior finish of some of the rooms was of rare workmanship, so Mr. Gifford decided to utilize the old building as far as possible in his plans." The architect was Frank Chouteau Brown, 6 Park Street, Boston, and for about two years and a half he was engaged in the work of improvement. From the Dedham Transcript:^ "The Old Norfolk House, Dedham, becomes the New Norfolk House, No. 19 Court St., by the thorough renovation, » July 7, 1906. ^ March 6, 1909. [ 169] A Dedham "Tavern restoration and improvement of 'Ye ancient hostelry.' The residents and real estate owners of that section of Court St. may well congratulate themselves on the wonderful transformation. It was taken hold of none too soon to save it from be- coming a nesting place for 'Weary Willies' and a home for the hungry horde of 'furriners.' The two storied veranda and the four large and tall pil- lars, painted immaculately white, and the English gates, joined by brick arches to the north and south sides, give a colonial and majestic tone to the whole structure." The following are the architect's own notes upon his work: "Old Norfolk House, Dedham. Alterations by Frank Chouteau Brown, architect. Style of archi- tecture. Southern Colonial. Columns, cement, 22 inches diam. at base by 18 ft. high. Capitols, Greek Ionic in type, but modified to a Colonial form. Gates, Southern Colonial. Brick fence and gate- ways agree with the house, being Southern Colonial in type. Photographer, Leon Dadmun, 11 Port- land St., Boston. Lot 121 ft. on Court St. by 175 ft. deep. Old ball room is 27 x 61 ft., two stories high, with arched plaster ceiling. Spring floor. Hanging musicians' gallery at one end. Living hall has staircase going up in two ways, as was the Southern fashion, and the hall is treated in the simplest Doric style, very similar to the hall in the White House at Washington, as recently [ 170] •J:l,i. I . i.iul.l. Ii.,l„a THE HALL Charles H, Gifford restored. Reception room is carried out in simple Adams type of colonial, which was derived from the French. The walls of the study are in panelled oak to the ceiling. The style of the room belonging to that time when Georgian and Elizabethan styles were interchanging in England. "When the restoration was begun the brick por- tion of the house had all been painted a grayish white, along with the wooden addition at the back. One of the first things attempted was to remove the paint from the brickwork so as to get back the origi- nal contrast of color. The portico in front was added so as to give the house a central feature which it badly needed, and to include the two doorways that would otherwise have been jarring elements to the design. One of the old doorways is filled with a French window, and the other retained as the main entrance to the house, and is treated with a colonial door and top-light. The side entry, open- ing from the garden and driveway at the south (Bates Court), is also distinctively colonial. Here side-lights and top-lights have both been employed. The old dining room of the Norfolk House was di- vided up to get kitchen closets and pantries in con- nection with the kitchen, and the entry just spoken of, and a loggia back of it, connecting the dining room with the hall. The house is heated by a mod- ern system of hot water. The boundary fence run- ning the whole length of Bates Court is an open pleasant lattice work, also of colonial style." [ 171 1 A Dedham 'Tavern Mr. Gifford deserves the greatest praise for beautifying this important section of the town. Before taking up his residence, however, in his new home, his business unexpectedly called him per- manently to Detroit, Michigan, and on April 12, 1910, he sold the premises to the author of this "Tale." Mr. Gifford was a resident of Dedham for several years, during which time he took an active and influential part in town affairs. The New Norfolk Hotel or "Auld-Inn" (as it might be called in memory of the old tavern keeper), stands as a monument to Mr. Gifford's efforts to beautify this historic spot in Dedham. APPENDIX APPENDIX A THE PASSING OF LAFAYETTE A Romance of the Norfolk House, by Elinor Ramsay ^ It was a night in early summer, and only now and again was the intense stillness broken by the twitter of a bird or a breath of wind coming from the river. The moon shone high in the sky, while the trees near cast shadows around the old posting-house. Time was stand- ing still, for the spirits of those long since departed were allowed once more to visit their past habitations. The shade of Lafayette, that gay, debonair young of- ficer of the French army, stood leaning against the door- way of the Norfolk House. Coming along Court Street was the shadow of a woman, and to Lafayette's heart there came a sudden throb, as he recognized the pic- turesque dress of the Friends. Unhesitatingly she flitted along until she reached the tavern, and the taller shade advanced to meet her. Words seemed to be superfluous, as, their hands meeting, Lafayette whispered: "I was half afraid you were detained, sweetheart. You did not fear to come?" For answer she looked gravely but tenderly at him, and together they passed into the house and up the staircase to the long ballroom. "Truly there seemeth much vexation and warring of elements nowadays," the Quaker lady said as they stepped to the window, and Lafayette stood looking down at her. " I did hear some talk that owing to the in- ^ Dedham Transcript, June 19, 1909. [ 175 1 Appendix crease of riches, the Evil One had more business to attend to than he could well manage." "Even the old houses are no longer old," she con- tinued, "but for myself I prefer the old, old things." She placed herself on the low bench, and the Marquis stooped and raised her hands to his lips. "Nay, Jean," she whispered. "Now gallants no longer salute the hands of those they love, courtesy has lost its sweet savor, and women are even as men, and some- times worse," and her voice fell. "Faith," — and at the old name the Quaker lady allowed herself to draw nearer Lafayette, — "let us forget to-day and its tarnish, and think of bygone hours, tenderly, kindly, knowing that for us once there grew the primrose way, even with the sound of war in our midst." "Jean, thee was harder hit than thee cares to admit," and a flash came as she spoke to the Quaker lady's eyes, which Lafayette had delighted in in years long past. For a second there was silence, and the room darkened; then the moon shone again on the two bowed heads and the clasped hands. "I loved you, little Faith, with a man's first love; you were the embodiment of every womanly virtue, and your religion only heightened your charm." "And I — oh, how could I love a Catholic and a worldling, but thee had ever been mine idol, Jean; but I was sore punished for my sin! For it was with me, as with many an one, Jean; I gave mine all, and when the end came, I, too, said : ' I shall tread softly all my years.'" As by the clearing of a mist away, Lafayette saw the colorless avenue of years along which his Quaker love had walked, and a feeling of remorse came to him. She was quick to see the change of feeling, and with deli- cate touch she raised her hands to his breast. [ 176] Appendix "With the woman it is the heart always, is it not? And it is right. For the man must step into the world and fight a man's battles. Thy life was not an easy one, my Jean"; and her eyes glowed with feeling. "I can see the old place now," she murmured, "but the house was destroyed years ago. There will Ije few spots left for us to revisit shortly." "You read me quite a lecture," went on Lafayette, "that night when we were quartered upon your family." "I had prayed in my girlish folly that I might see the noble young officer who was aiding Washington so well," Faith answered. "And when my mother bade me come and be presented to thee, I scarce could stand upright, my heart was beating so! Yet I did reprove thee about the King, for it seemed to me thee was ungen- erous." The Marquis smiled, and, raising the delicate face, he gazed into the steadfast eyes. "Faith, Hope, and Charity," he said, "but the greatest of these is Charity, which forgives us poor blundering men the mistakes which spoil a young life. Still, thy mother was somewhat negligent about thee when she — " "My mother always trusted me, Jean." Then she smiled. "Where was she when we walked in the garden?" La- fayette went on; and again the flash came into the gray lady's eyes. "My lord, to tell the honest truth, my mother was very proud of certain dishes she made, and so she would not let Kezia make them while you were our guest; besides, she thought me only a child and a Friend!" And Faith smiled again. "Ah! you were a Friend, and I — well, I was only a lover. And there came a day when you ceased to be only a Friend to me and became — " "Hush!" Faith whispered. "Does thee remember the [ 177 ] Appendix old rose-bush, the York and Lancaster, that striped rose? It never flourished from that time, but gradually pined away, and by the time thee went back to France, the rose was dead." A gust of wind suddenly sprang up and a slight cloud passed over the moon. The woman's shadowy form leaned against the man, her head rested against his shoulder, while the memory of forgotten days envel- oped them. The faulty weaving was lost in the soft curves of the fabric, and its folds were light as thistle- down. Lafayette was the first to speak. " I blamed myself. I might have known your parents would never have con- sented to your wedding a noble and a Frenchman, to say nothing of the religion." "No," Faith said softly; "but they did not under- stand that love comes and goes, and for some 'with God be the rest.'" "Your father thanked me for the honor I had done his family, regretted his share in allowing me to see you so often, and granted my last request that I might see you once again and alone. It was in that last sad inter- view in dear old Yorktown that we made our solemn compact to meet at stated times, when our spirits, freed from their earthly forms, might once again commune in peace." Lafayette's voice died away on the still air of the room. "And thee rode away, afterwards to suffer those years of prison, and I — " Faith paused. "Love, you were more faithful than I," whispered Lafayette. "Thee had to do what was right," the Quaker lady went on. "For me, after the war was over, my parents' wealth came to me and smoothed my latter years." Lafayette spoke. "Some travelling Americans gave [ 178] k Appendix me news of you in Paris, and I made an extra prayer for the soul of Faith Carstairs." Faith rested her hand on his Hps. "Thee hurts me when thee speaks Hke that. If I suf- fered, did thee not suffer in those weary years of im- prisonment? Many was the prayer I prayed for those 'who languish in prison,' and once again we saw each other on earth." "Little did I think," said Lafayette, "that on that hasty ride through to Roxbury, Fate or Providence would bring me a glimpse of you. Tell me again how you came to be stopping here." "When I was left alone," Faith said softly, "I spent much of my time in visiting prisons. There was need of it, and as I sat by the side of one born far away from this land, my heart thought on thee and thy years of cap- tivity. My friends and I had stopped here to rest our horses, and disliking the publicity below, we were al- lowed to remain in the dancing-room. I heard the tu- mult and confusion, and from these windows I saw le Marquis de Lafayette!" "There was no mistaking you," Lafayette said. "After all those years, your face still came to me as I knew it in Yorktown. The crowd around thought it only gallantry which made me salute the ladies at the window while time pressed." "It was prophetic," Faith answered. "I felt that time for me had all but counted the last stroke, and for thee also the years might be few." "Faith" — and the man's tones sank to a whisper — "as I rode away that night, with the gleam from the marshes lighting my road, I thought what will- o'-the-wisps men follow, and how much happier those who follow the straight, if hard road of duty, even if difficult to find." Softly now, as of some fitful memory flashing into [ 179 ] Appendix being, came the sounds of music. They fell upon the shadowy listeners' hearing like echoes of the world above. Neither form moved, but together they saw the old walk in the garden in Yorktown, and the figure of a Quaker maiden and a French noble. "Do you remember what I taught you," Lafayette whispered, and Faith's eyes glistened as she recalled the forbidden pastime. "We had tried long ere thee came," she answered, "but they never knew how I learned to dance so well"; and the girl smiled. Still the music rippled on, and surely there were other shadowy forms in the gallery. To the man's ears it rang of the early days in Yorktown, swelling to the march of war and fading away into a minor key. The woman's ear heard a spring song, the full note of a sum- mer day, too beautiful to last, and then the wailing notes of an unfinished theme. The two figures passed into the moonlight, the air of a minuet vibrating across the room. The Quaker lady's feet had surely trod the measure before, and there was no faltering on the part of the Marquis. To and fro, bow and courtesy, the steps went on, and only for them rang the music from the gallery. Slowly, slowly, the figures moved, then paused, the hands of the woman fast clasped to the man's breast, as upon the stillness floated the farewell of the Marseillaise. APPENDIX B TITLE OF THE NORFOLK HOTEL LAND Report of the Examiner, Don Gleason Hill, A LARGE portion of the land In Dedham Village between Memorial Hall and the Episcopal Church on both sides of Church Street and between School Street and Court Street and also a large tract on the north side of High Street, on both sides of Washington Street, from Maple Place to the Rail- road Bridge, together with the Greenleaf Block estate south of High and east of Washington Street, are held under leases for 999 years from the Epis- copal Church In Dedham to various lessees. Also the Square bounded by High Street, Court Street, Village Avenue and Bullard Street (except the Church Green and the land on which the Church and Vestry stand) are held under leases from the First Church in Dedham. There are also a few outlying pieces which have been leased by the Church. These Churches began to make these leases a little before the year 1800, and they bear different dates from that period down. Prior to the passage of Chapter 162 of the Acts of 1834 these leases were personal estates, and I was told many years ago by the late Judge Waldo Colburn that » Land Registration Office, Boston. Title No. 1452- [ 181 ] Appendix Judge Theron Metcalf, who was then a practising lawyer in Dedham, was instrumental in procuring the passage of this act on account of the large amount of property held in Dedham under long leases. In the earlier days these leases were trans- ferred in the most simple manner, frequently by mere endorsements on the back of the original lease. The lessees have constantly subdivided their land, dividing the rent to be paid among them- selves, and in not a few cases charging the whole rent, sometimes of two or three leases, upon a por- tion of the land described in one lease. Frequently dividing the land into two parts, the lease would be surrendered without ceremony and two new leases issued in place thereof. In our particular case the rent of several leases was charged by Martin Bates, the owner, upon our particular lot, and some of the holders under the lease would be charged with the payment of the rent under an en- tirely different lease, but this arrangement of pay- ments of ground rent has now become adjusted by the issuing of new leases in 1905 whereby each lessee is chargeable only with the rent under his own lease. Sheet 14 is a reduced sketch from a copy of a plan which I copied Oct. 10, 1874 from the original then in the possession of Jonathan H. Cobb, who was then one of the Deacons, and showed the lots according to the leases as they stood in 1863, the red shading being mine to show our particular lines. [ 182 1 Appendix With this report I file a little pamphlet entitled "Dedham Village in 1636-1876" with a plan, to which I have added a few more extracts from the Dedham Proprietors' Records. On page 6 of the pamphlet will be found a grant of the land (cover- ing the Church land) to Ezechiell Holliman, 12 acres. On page 16 will be found the transfer from Holliman to Joseph Kingsbury, and also a trans- fer from Joseph Kingsbury to the Town of an acre for a "seat for a publique Meetinge House" in the added sheets the transfer from Kingsbury to the Church. Also In the July number of 1902 of Ded- ham Historical Register is an historical paper of mine giving some information with regard to these early grants, although that article relates mostly to the Landing Place on Charles River and the part of the Kingsbury land north of High Street. Our immediate locus originally formed part of some five different leases with an addition thereto on the back of one of them. There are one or two instances in which former leases appear to have been surrendered and we have new leases in place thereof. It seemed to me necessary to follow the land under each one of these leases until the title became vested in Martin Bates, but from there on I have not deemed it necessary to follow in the abstract, the land outside of our locus. The locus was sold for taxes sheet No. 91 and was a default as to all of the leases covered by our abstract. En- try has been made for breach of the condition of [ 183 ] Appendix these leases on account of failure to pay taxes and also on account of failure to pay rent, and certi- ficates recorded under Section i6, Chapter 134 of the Revised Laws. Sheet No. 96 Is a plan showing the situation of the new leases and Is recorded with them; the red lines being the old lease lines. My abstract does not show It, but at the time the new lease was made to Robert J. Johnson (sheet 94) new leases were also made of the other lots on this plan to the parties named with each lot. . . . It will be noticed that sheet 82 which conveys our locus is made on condition that the grantees shall pay the rent, etc. and that said premises shall always be used for purposes set forth In ar- ticles of association of St. Mary's School and Asy- lum. So far as I have been able to discover I have found no evidence of any entry by Bates or his heirs for breach of the condition in this deed. After the passage of Chapter 436, Acts of 1901, referred to on Sheet 85 a real action was brought by a few of the heirs of Martin Bates (Sheet loi) against John Cahill who was a mere occupant of the pre- mises, but Cahill died and the case was dismissed Dec. 4, 1905 at the calling of the Docket. I have on sheets 98, 99 and 100 given an abstract of the Bates will and codicil, (this will was duly probated) and the latest list of heirs which I have been able to find from the Probate Documents, and from the deeds. I have not seen the conveyances by the Bates heirs and I do not know their present names and ad- [ 184] Appendix dresses. I know that George Coolidge Is dead and he left, so far as I can ascertain from the Dedham Records, four children who are named as plaintiffs in the writ Sheet loi. . . } 1 Heirs of Martin Bates; from Land Registration Office, Boston: Allen M. Sumner, Margaret S. Davis, Grace F. Penny-packer, Anna L. Coolidge, George A. Coolidge, Ellen F. Daniels, Ellen B. Gannett, James T. Bates, Albert C. Hager, George C. Hager. INDEX Abolition Movement. See Anti- Slavery meetings. Academy, 55. Adams, Charles Francis, 53. Adams, John, 32, 53. Adams, J. Q., 71. Adams, John Quincy, 33, 53, 54, 81. Adams, Thomas B., 15. Addison, Mrs., 153. Adlam, Rev. Samuel, 52. Agricultural Hall, 158. Alden, Abner, no, in, 137, 142. Alden, Amasa, 57, 150. Alden, Francis, 27-37, S7-II3; and elsewhere. Alden, George, 57, 70, 91, 92, 103, 120, 137, 150. Alden, Leonard, 57, 108, 113. AUstrum, Benjamin, 154. Ames, Fisher, 3, 8, 9, 16, 26, 29, 53. 73, 154- Ames, John W., 46, 93. Ames, Nathaniel, Senior, 3. Ames, Nathaniel, Junior (Diary often quoted), 9, 12, 16, 90. Ames, Seth, 53. Ames, William (Diary often quoted), 73, 74, 120, 123, 1 3 2. Ames, William, 2d, 128. Andrew, John A., 53, 99, 157. Anti-Masons, 32, 92, 95, 96. Anti-Slavery meetings, 112, 124, 125. Assemblies. See Parties. Austin, J. A., 91. Austin, James Trecothick, 53, 94. Avery House, 91. [ I Bacon, Horace, 118. Bacon, Mrs. Horace, 38, 74, 80. Bailey, John, 81. Baker, David A., 120. Baker, Eliphalet, 17. Baker, Eliphalet, Jr., 19. Baker, Jeremiah, 18, 24. Baker, Joel M., 150. Baker, John, 19, 150. Baker, John, Jr., 35. Baker, John, 2d, 84, 150. Baker, Lusher J., 150. Baker, Nancy, 150. Baker, Obed, 18, 138, 150. Baker, Sarah Breck, 166. Baker et al. vs. Fales, 35. Balch, John, Jr., 150. Ballou, Rev. Hosea, 119. Ballroom, 67-75, 167, 170. Balls. See Parties. Banks, Nathaniel P., 133, 134. Baptist Church, 52. Bar, the, 59, 75, 130, 135, 138, ISS- Barber, 39. Barrows, Thomas, 82, 96, 103, 104, 150. Barry, Mrs., in. Barry, Stephen, 96. Bassett, Rev. A. V., lOl. Bates, James T., 185. Bates, Martin, 1 14-158; and else- where. Bates, Mary F., 114. Bates, Rev., 11. Bates, Samuel, 114. Bates, Stephen, 147. Bent, Samuel G., 50. Bickner, Samuel R., 154, 156. 87 ] Index Bigelow, Jabez, 86. Bingham, Jerusha, 150. Bingham, Pliny, 29, 30, 83, 91, 92, 93- Bird, F. W., 144. Bird, George, 150. Bird Josiah N., 82, 85, 96. Blake, Latimer, 71. Blue Hill Hotel, 56. Boston and Providence Railroad. See Providence Railroad. Boston and Providence Turnpike, 61. Boston Veterans, 128, 137. Boyd, Moses, 72, 126. Boyden, Benjamin, 96, 120, IJO. Boyden, John E., 85, 150. Boyle, Rev. Isaac, 41, 43, 46. Boyn ton's Tavern, 22. Bradley, Gen. E. W., 86. Brennan, Rev. Father, 164. Bride, James, 4, 91, 109. Bride's Tavern, 3, 40, 62, 65, 71, 83, 94- Briggs, 92. Briggs, John K., 51. Briggs, Solomon, 20, 150. Brigham, Josiah, 87. Brooks, Gov. John, 34. Brown, Frank Chouteau, 169, 170. Brown, George, 103. Brown, Th., 91. Bryant, Austin, 96, 104, 120, 150. Bugby, Dr. S., 46. BuUard, Chestor, 12. Bullard, Elijah, 150. Bullard, Isaac, 8. Bullard, John, 18, 85, 120, ijo. Bullard, John, Jr., 120. Bullard, Mrs. John R., 148. Bullard, W., 42. Bullard, William, 150. Burgess, Rev. Ebenezer, 52, 54. [ I Burrill, Clarissa, 12. Burying Ground, 5, 10, 125. Butler, Benjamin F., 53. Cabot, 66. Cahill, John, 166, 167, 184. Cahill, Mary, 166. Calder, Edna F., Preface, v. Capen, Oliver, 120, 136, 137, 147, ISO. Capen, Nathaniel, 150. Capen, Ebenezer, 150. Carey, 128. Carroll, Sanford, 57. Carstairs, Faith, 175-180. Carter, Joshua E., 120, 136. Carter (landlord), 143, 144. Cass, Gov., 76, 79, 146. Chamberlin, 139, 140. Chandler, Gard. L., 12. Chapin, J., 91, 92, 137. Chase, David, 150. Chickering, Jabez, 21, 24, 30, 45, Chickering, Jabez, Jr., 21. Choate, Rufus, 53, 106, 129. Cholera, 108. Citizens' Line, 65, 66. Clap, Jesse, 19, 20. Clap, Nathaniel, 85, 140. Clark, Aaron, 150. Clark, Horatio, 105. Clark, J., 71. Clark, Jacob, 93, 108, 109, no. Clark, James, 4, 40, 133. Clarke, Spencer, 13. Clarke, William Horatio, 49. Clark's Tavern, 24. Clay, Henry, 29, 82, 103. Cleveland, Ira, iii. Cobb, Jonathan H., 18, 34, 46, SI, 81, 103, 108, no, 120, 138, 182. Cobb, C. C, 137. 88 ] Index Cobb, Miss, 126. Colburn, Abijah, 150. Colburn, Lyman R., 100. Colburn, John D., 96. Colburn, Waldo, 181. Columbian House, 133. Comer, 74. Commercial Line of Stages, 61. Commissioners of Highways, 55. Company Shoots. See Shoots. Concerts, 41, 74, 75, 119, 125, 127, 138, 164. Coney, Jabez, Jr., 84, 104. Congregational Church, 52, 54, 90, 161. Constellation Lodge {see Masons), 10, II, 30, 31, 52. Coolidge, Anna L., 185. Coolidge, George A., 185. Cooper, James Fenimore, 2. Copeland, Benjamin F., 137. Corry, Andrea, 159. Court House, 8, 9, 10, 21, 22, 25, 26,42, 51,52, 53,54,61,90, 106, 107, 112, 129, 138, 140, 156, 157. Covell, Daniel, 84. Cox, John, 120. Crane, Elijah, 24. Crane, Joseph, 126. Crane, General, 14. Crocker, Geo. G., 65. Crossman (landlord), 154, 155. Grossman, J. C, 105. Cummings, Judge, 112. Gushing, Caleb, 53. Dadmun, Leon, 170. Dana, L., 128, 150. Dana, Richard H., 53, 129. Dances. See Parties. Dancing Schools. See Parties. Daniels, Ellen F., 185. Daniells, Josiah, 18. Davenport, Samuel, 118. Davenport's Tavern, 22, 23. Davis, Judge, 99. Davis, Margaret S., 185. Dawes, Judge Thomas, 26, 53. Day, Joseph, 85, 96, 123, 150. De Rochemont and Kenny, 157. Dean, Dexter, 71. Dean, John, 2d, 150. Dean, John, 3d, 85. Dean, Josiah, 2d, 96. Dearborn, Adj't-Gen'l., 99. Dedham Assemblies, 70, 71. Dedham Bank, 24, 29, 61. Dedham Boat Company, 112. Dedham Branch Railroad. See Providence Railroad. Dedham Cotillion Band, 71. Dedham Fire Society. See Fire Societies. Dedham Historical Society, 5, 12, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 65, 73, 120. Dedham Hotel, 3, 37, 50, 71, 91. Dedham Light Infantry, 31, 33, 55. 98) 99> 100, loi. Dedham Reading Room, 46. Dedham Second Centennial Anni- versary, 96-100. Dedham Social Library, no. Dedham Stage, 13, 14, 21, 22, 23, 24, 61. Dedham Thief Detecting Society, 119, 120, 141. Dedham Village Avenue Associa- tion, III. Democratic meetings, 83, 84, 85. Derby, John B., 46. Detecting Society in Dedham, 16, 17, 18. Deuchar, A., 72. Dewey, Charles A., 53. Dexter, Franklin, 99. Dexter, Samuel, 26, 29, 53. [ 189 ] Index Dixon, George, 55, 109. Dixon, John, 93. Dorchester and Milton Glee Club, 74- Douglass, Frederick, 124. Downing, James, 85, 96, 150. Dowse, 14, 90. Drinks, 36, 59, 60. Druce, 11. Eagle, 35. Eaton, E., 150. Eaton, James, 4. Eaton, John, 1 10. Eaton, Luther, Capt., lOl, 150. Eaton, Luther, Col., 78, 79, 85, 96, 104, no. Elephant, 44. Ellis, Abner, 18, 81, 150. Ellis, Calvin, 75. Ellis, Charles, 147. Ellis, Colburn, 83, 150. EUis, Gen. George, 15, 17. Ellis, George, 2d, 86, 120, 150. Ellis, Isaac, 150. Ellis, John, 23, 24, 136. Ellis, Merrill D., 96, 123, 147. Ellis, Paul, 18. EUis, Richard, 83, 85, 150. Ellis, William, 17, 18, 46, 81, 85, 86, 150. Ellis, William, Jr., 18. Elm Trees, no, ni, 137. Ely, Frederick D., 157. Endicot, 14. Endicott, John, 17,55, 84, 88, 150, Engine Companies, 18, 19, 20, 41, 42,43,92,93,98,99, 119, 152, 153. Episcopal Church, 10, 90, l6l, l8l, Este, Charles H., 158. Etheridge, John A., 105. Eustis, Governor, 48, 55. I ] Everett, Alexander H., 99. Everett, Edward, 53, 78, 84, 99, 100. Everett, Meletiah, 87. Everett, Willard, 2d, 85. Fairbanks, Joe, 123. Fairbanks, William, 30, 39, 128. Fairbanks, William, 2d, 150. Fales, Capt. J., 30. Fales, Joseph, no. Fales, Joshua, 86. Fales, Joshua, Jr., 84, 87. Fales, Stephen, 150. Farrington, D. B., 118. - Farrington, James, no, 150. Farrington, Jesse, 33, no. Farrington, Otis, 150. Farrington, Reuben, 72, 121, 150. Farrington, Reuben, Jr., 120, 150. Featherstone, Mrs., 164. Federal Meetings, 29. Felton, Horace, 72, 92. Fessenden, Lucy Lee, 166. Field, Barnum, 34. Fillmore, Millard, 144. Fire Department {see Engine Companies), 94, 98. Fire Societies, 56, 93, 94. First Church in Dedham, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, n, 31,35, 36,39,45*46, 54, 78, 79, 90, 98, 99, loi, 103, 104, 116, 117, 120, 133, 161, 167, 168, 181, 183. Fish (landlord), 142. Fisher, Alvan, 46, 147. Fisher, Alvan J., 153. Fisher, E., Jr., 24, 42, 46. Fisher, Eben S., 147, 152. Fisher, Ebenezer, Jr., 81. Fisher, Freeman, 148. Fisher, John, 150. Fisher, John, Jr., 18. 90 ] Index Fisher, John D., 46. Fisher, Joseph, 85, 96, 150. Fisher, Joshua, 3. Fisher, Josiah, 8. Fisher, Josiah, S., 55. Fisher, Lewis, 86. Fisher, Lewis W., 150. Flagstaff, 38, 133. Flip, flip bowl, flip iron, 59. Foord, Enos, 46, 91, 92, 93, 147. Foord, James, 28. French, George H., 86. French, Samuel, 150. French, Thomas, 87. French allies, 10. Frost, 71. Fuller, Aaron, 8. Fuller, Ellis, 85. Gannett, Ellen B., 185. Gardner, John, 147. Garrison, William Lloyd, 124. Gassett, Percival, 166. Gaston, William, 53. Gay, Ellis, 150. Gay, Moses, 18. Gay, Theodore 2d, 96, 104. Gay, Timothy, 37, 83. Gay, Willard, 24. Gay, William K., 84. Gay's Tavern, 3, 4, 10, 61. Gifford, Charles H., 165, 168, 170, 171, 172. Giles, Rev. Henry, 143. Glidden, Philip, 166. Gough, John B., 135, Gourgas, John M., 87. Gowen, Asa, 34. Gragg, Moses, 27-56. Gray, Horace, 53. Gray, Miss, 153. Gray, William King, 85, 150. 137, 169, Grover, Calvin, 126. Guild, Col. A., 103. Guild, Calvin, 18, 19, 25, 55, 109, ISO. Guild, Francis, 62, 85, 96. Guild, Jason, 104, 120. Guild, John, 18, 24, 30, 150. Guild, Gen. Nathaniel, 9, 46, 82, 85, 97, no. Guild, Reuben, 2d, 96, 150. Hager, Albert C, 185. Hager, George C, 185. Hall, Mr. & Mrs., 125. Harrison, William Henry, 88, 115, 116, 117, 121, 122. Harrison Grove, 117, 135. Haseltine, George W., 1 15-120, 132. Haven, Rev. Jason, 8, 9, 90. Haven, C, 13. Haven, Samuel, 24. Haven, Samuel F., 99, 100. Hayne, Robert Y., 102. Hazeltine, Dr. W., 157. Heustis, Dr., 137. Hewins, Nathaniel A., 96, 120, 150. Hill, Don Gleason, 114, 181. Hoar, Ebenezer R., 53. Hoffman, Miss, 126. Holliman, Ezechiell, 4, 5, 161, 183. Holmes, Edward B., 84, 96, 150. Howard, P., 30. Howe, Allen, 153. Howe, John, 12. Howe, Josiah D., 4. Howe, J. R. & W., no. Howe's Tavern, 4, 10. Hunnewell, 19. Hunnewell, Ebenezer, 20. Huntoon, Rev. Benjamin, 52. [ 191 ] Index Jackman, Enoch G., 104. Jackson, Andrew, 75-80, 83, loi. Jackson, Judge, 35. Jackson, William, 99. Jail, 10, 25. Jefferson, Thomas, 32, 53. Johnson, Rev. Robert J., 165, 167, 184. Jones, Ezra, 1 31-139. Jones, Harriet, 151. Kendall's Cotillion Band, 73. Key Bridge, 152. Keye, The, 3. Keyes, Edward L., 143, 152. Kimball, Theodore T., 4, 91, 92, 120, 137, 150. King, D., 41. King, John, 93, 127, 128, 147. Kingman, David, 4, 91. Kingsbury, Joseph, 5, 183. Kingsbury, L. H., 128. Knapp, 31. KosciuskOj 102. Lafayette, 47-50, 175-180. Lamson, Rev. Alvan, 35, 36, 41, 43,46,S4>99, 104, 117, 133,156. Lebosquet, 19. Lee, William Raymond, 58. Lewis, Samuel, 91, 92. Liberal Party, 86, 104, 106, 107. Liberty Party, 124. Lincoln, Abraham, 144-150. Lincoln, Gov., 78, 79. Lincoln Wide-Awakes, 158. Loggerhead. See Flip Iron. Loring, John H., 120, 121. Loring, Jonathan H., 150. Lovering, Nathaniel P., 87. Lyceum, 74. Mahoney, Dolores, 160. Mann, Herman, Sr., 8, 21. Mann, Herman, Jr. (Diary often quoted), 30, 34, 43, 85, 91, 103, 104, no. Mann, Horace, 46, 53, 54, 82, 102, 144. Mann, J. N. E., 91, 103, 120. Mann, Samuel C, 85, 92, 96, 123, 128, 137, 147, iSO> 152. Mann, William H., 34, 74, 91, 92, 93, 103, 120, 123, 128, 136, 137. Marcy, Gov., I^), 79. Marden, Marietta, 166. Marsh, Daniel, 85. Marsh, Francis, 150. Marsh, Henry, 12. Marsh, Martin, 6-26; and else- where. Marsh (of Roxbury), 133. Masonic Hall, 11. Masons, The {see Constellation Lodge; Anti-Masons), 10, li, 31,32,33,34,51,92,95,127. Mathew, Father, 135. Maynadier, G. Howard. Preface. McClosky, Margaret Ann Vin- cent, 160. Mclntire, Edmond, 120-132, 150. Mclntire, Samuel, 63, 68, 95, 129. Mclntire's Stage, lir. Mcintosh, Elisha, 150. Meeting House. See First Church in Dedham. Merrick, Pliny, 53, 94. Messenger, Jason, 18, 19, 51. Metcalf, J., 14. Metcalf, Joseph, no. Metcalf, Luther, 137. Metcalf, T., 112. Metcalf, Theodore, 96. Metcalf, Theron, 21, 53, 82, 84, 182. Militia {jee Dedham Light In- fantry), 20, 88, 100, 128, 136. [ 192 ] Index Miller, P. W., 134. Mills, John, 83. Monroe, George H., 147, 148, 149. Monroe, H., 103. Monroe, James, 14, 32. Morse, Albert, 118, 136. Morse, John, 18, 84, 96, 150. Morse, Reuben, 18. Morton, Marcus, 53, 83, 94. Mowry, Israel, 150. Nash, J. W., 71. Newell, Artemas, 20. Newell, Ebenezer, 91, 92. Newell, Marshall, 136. Norfolk Administration Conven- tion, 81. Norfolk Agricultural Society, 152. Norfolk and Bristol Turnpike, II, 63. Norfolk Association of Teachers, no. Norfolk Convention, 15. Norfolk Mutual Fire Insurance Co., 6, 55, 154. North, James, 20. Noyes, Samuel, 42, 46. Onion, Joseph, 85. Otis, James, 26, 29, 53. Owens, Nathaniel, 20. Parker, Daniel, 136. Parker, Isaac, 35, 52, 53. Parsons, Theophilus, 26, 53. Parties, 23, 36, 39, 40, 70, 71, 74, 118, 121, 122, 125, 126, 127, 135, 136, ISO, 157- Partridge, Rev. Emmons, 1 19. Pedrick, William, 99. People's Line of Stage Coaches, 65, (i(>. Pennypacker, Grace F., 185. Perry, Clara, 166. Phillips, George A., 1 10. Phillips, John, 5. Phillips, Nathan, 96, 150. Phillips, Nicholas, 5. Phillips, Wendell, 124. Phipps, William, 18, Phoenix Hotel, 3, 4, 18, 27, 37, 66, 74,83,84,94,126,132,133,134, 141, 142, 146, 150, 151, 152, 153, 'i-'^^l, 158. Pierce, O., 91. Pioneer Line, 66. Pitt's Head Monument, 10, 152. Poinsett, "jd. Policy's Tavern, 3, 14. Porch (Portico), 58, 64, 78, 79, 80, III. Powder House, 10, 128, 152, 153. Powell, Michael, 2. Powers, L., 103. Prescott, Alfred, 138. Providence Railroad, 52, 58, 67, 89, 90, 113. Putnam, Israel, 29. Putnam, Judge, 35, 94. Putnam, Samuel, 53. Quincy, Josiah, 47, 99. Quirk, Mary Frances, 160. Randall, 128. Rantoul, Robert, 53. Reed, Aloysia, 159. Reed, CD., 118. Reed, T., 128. Republican meetings, 14, 15, 81, 82, 83, 84. Rhoades, Lewis, 150. Richards, A., Abr., Abiathar, 12, 13, 91, 92, 128, 137, 147, ISO- Richards, Caroline A., 36. [ 193 ] Index Richards, Charles, 85, 150. Richards, Dr., 14. Richards, Edmund M., 30. Richards, Edward M., 82. Richards, Giles, 54. Richards, J., 14. Richards, Joel, 93, 96, 150. Richards, Joseph, 137. Richards, M., 42. Richards, Mason, no. Richards, S., 12. Richardson, James, 28, 41, 42, 43, 45, 76, 79, 82, 84, 86, 87, 93, 100, 103, 109, 119, 138, 144, 147, 154. Richardson, Rev., 31. Richmond, Carmi, 147. Rider, T. P., 103. Robbins, Edward H., 34. Robinson, Elbridge G., 85, 96, 104, "5- RoUand, Sybil E., 166. Ruggles, John, 86. Ruggles, Nathaniel, 13, 16. Russell, Ira, 96. Russell & Baker, 150. Saint Mary's School and Asylum, 159-168. Sampson, E. W., 92, 128, 137, ISO. Sanger, George P., 53. Sargeant, John, 82. Schermerhorn, Bernard, 166. School House, 9, 47. Selfridge, Thomas O., 16. Sewall, Charles C, 46. Sewall, Samuel, 26, 53. Shattuck, William, 118. Shaw, E., 40. Shaw, Lemuel, 53, 94. Shaw, Robert G., 157. Shepard, L., 91. Shepard's Tavern, 82, 91, Shoots, 43, 44, 91, 92, 128, 137, 153- Shorb, Ann Alexis, 159. Sign of Tavern. See Tavern Sign. Simpson and Mears, 138. Singers of First Parish, 30, 39. Sister Anselm, 162. Sister Catherine, 162. Sister Mary Ann Alexis, 165. Sister Mary Frances, 165. Sister Mary Genevieve, 165. Sister Mary Josephine, 165. Sister Mary Martin, 165. Sister Mary Theotina, 165. Sister Mary Victorina, 16^. Sister Mary Vincent, 165. Sister Veronica, 162. Skinner, Rev. O. A., 119. Smith, Abijah, 75. Smith, Asahel, no, 150. Smith, Frank, 66. Smith, Josiah, 92. Smith, Sabin M., 105. Smith, Simeon, 103, 104, 105. Smith, WilHam, 12, 147, 150. Smith, Mr. & Mrs. W. H., 74. Smith's Tavern, 3. Society in Dedham for Appre- hending Horse Thieves, 16, 18, 141, 150. Soule, Ephraim, 85. Spear, William H., no. Spindle, Theodore P., 168. Stage Coaches, 60-67, §9, 90. Stearns, William, 91, 128, 137. Stevens, William, 92. Stewart, Dr. A. H., 166. Stimson, Jeremy, 86, 109, 150. Stimson, Lovett, 39, 40, 70, 151. Stone, Eliphalet, 73, 120, 150. Story, Joseph, 53. Strong, Caleb, 53. Suffolk Convention, 3. [ 194 ] i Index Sumner, Allen M., 185. Sumner, Jabez, 150. Sumner, Joseph, 104, 150. Sumner, William H., 87, 91. Swan, Joseph Jr., 18. Swett, Samuel, 84, 90, 109, ISO. Taft, Ezra W., 85, 96, 147, 150. Taft, Frederick A., 85, no. Taft's Tavern, 55. Tavern Sign, 38. Taylor, Zachary, 144, 146. Temperance Hall, 106, 144, 145, 149, 155. Temperance Party, 86, 104, 105, 106, 107, 132. Thatcher, Judge, 35. Thayer, Elisha, 83. Thompson, 119. Thompson, Joshua P., 150. Thompson, Robert, 150. Thompson's Hotel, 62. Thorp, Eliphalet, 17. Tillinghast, A., 103. Tilton, John, 4. Tisdale, James, 20. Town House, 88,98, 115. Townsend, Horatio, 24. Trescott, R. G., 97. Tubbs, B. H., 71. Tucker, George W., 126. Turkey Shoots, 43, 44. Tuttle, Julius H., Preface. Tyler, John, 88, 122, 123. Union Musical Society, 21. Unitarian Church. See First Church in Dedham. Universalists, 119. Van Buren, Martin, '](), 79, 80, 87, 122, 146. [ I Virgin, Rev. Edward W., 58, 63, 68, 165. Wade, John, 94. Walpole, Artillery, 76. Ware, Jairus, 81. Warren, Joseph, 102. Washington, George, 29, 32, 38, SO, loi, 102. Washingtonian Movement, 104. Waterman, Henry, 126. Weatherbee, Jesse, 118, 150. Webb, Richard, 20. Webster, Daniel, 35, ^\, S3, 84, 102. Weld, Edward D., 96, 104. Whig Meetings, 83, 84, 8s, 86, 87, 88, 89, IIS, 116, 117, 121, 122, 123,124,136,137, 143,144,14s, 146. White, A. B., 71. White, Adam H., 4. White, Rev. John, 43, 100. White, Rev. M., 46. Whiting, Hezekiah, 12, 120. Whiting, Isaac, n, 30, 150. Whiting, Joseph, 8, 14, 128, ISO. Whiting, Nathaniel, 17. Whiting, Peletiah, 150. Whiting, Samuel, 72, 73, 92. Whiting, William, 120, 123. Whitney, Miss, 144. Whittemore, 19. Wight, Ebenezer, iso, Wilde, Samuel C, S3. 94- Wilder, Joseph A., 96, 104, 115. Wilkinson, Ezra, 143. Williams, Gen., 76. Williams, John, Si- Williams, John S., IS- Wilson, Gen., 117. Wilson, John F., 150. 95 1 Index Wilson, Reuben S., 120, 126, ISO. Winch Family, 137. Winslow, George, 147. Winthrop, Robert C., 53, 99. Withycombe, 40. Woodbury, Gov., 76, 79. Woodward, Richard, 3. Woodward's Tavern, 3, 9. Worthington, Erastus, 15, 55, 63, 81, 109. PRINTED BY H. O. HOUGHTON * CO. CAMBRIDGE, MASS. U.S. A. NOV 4 19t^