(«^C'; ulation in town. " What deeds of strength and agility, in handling beams and rafters, — what skill in tilting and catching pins, — what hair- breadth escapes, — what presumptuous adventures, in walkmg the giddy ridge-pole, — what notes of alarm from prudent moth- ers and careful wives, — it is not for us to report. Nor would it be of interest, at this late period, to speak of the closing •Rev. Mr. Allen. 18 scenes of that day. It is enough to remark, that, as after the consecration of the Temple, Solomon held a feast, and all Is- rael with him, and on the eighth day sent the people away, and they came to their tents joyfully and glad of heart ;" so no doubt abundant provision had been made " for all those creature comforts oiice^ — but not noiv, — deemed indispensable at a raising. " Tlie massive frame thus went up, -^vithout any accident to mar the happiness of the occasion ; and there it has stood," more than " a century, defying the fierce blasts of winter, and the progress of decay, — and seems even now capable, with proper care, of lasting a century more. Though it has been taken from sacred, and appropriated to secular uses, — though it stands sohtary and alone, and seems without and within, Uke one forsaken, — ^yet, who can pass by it," " without emotion ? " It is of New England Architecture. " It is a Puritan struc- ture." * * * " Centuries to come will approve and applaud the New England men, who worshipped in square pews, and the New England Ministers, who preached with a subduing power from high pulpits." The first town meeting was held on the 7th day of February, 1749.* Daniel Little was chosen Moderator, and had the honor of holding the first elective office in town. Peter Eastman was elected Town Clerk, to which office he was annually elected, with but two exceptions, till 1776. Nathaniel Heath was chosen Constable, but not wishing to serve, hired Ebenezer Gile to take his place, and the town accepted the substitute. A board of five Selectmen was chosen, either because it was the custom to choose that number, or because they thought five would be more prompt to serve the town Avell, than three. The board consisted of John Jolinson, Lieut. Peter Morse, George Little, Jacob Bay- ley, and Stephen Johnson. The other offices were all filled, no doubt, by good men. Joseph Stevens and John Beard were elected Hogreeves. If the custom then prevailed, as at the present time, of choosing the newly married to that office, we are led to infer that Joseph Stevens and John Beard had recent- ly worshipped at the altar of Hymen. It is certainly a custom *This was in Old Style. According to our chronology, it would be eleven days later- This remark will also apply to the date of our town charter. 19 of long standing. The office was not then, as now, a noniuial one ; its duties were often onerous. Perhaps the custom owes its ori^ to a playfid desire upon the part of the community at large, to render this naturally embarrassing period of the newly wedded couple's life, more embarrassing, by thus drawing to the happy groom, the attention of the whole town. There may be something peculiar in matrimony itself, that renders him a suitable person to have charge of the swdne running at large, and makes him em- phatically " master of the ring." Or, by ringing the nose of the unfortimate pig, he may see a foreboding of what is to be his own fate, mJess he shall float down the stream of wedded life, more safely than sometimes happens. The question \yill, proba- bly, never be settled upon strictly political principles. Some action was taken at this meeting for securing a settled Minister. But from a defect in the records, it does not appear what action was had. From the fact that a Minister was settled three years afterwards, in 1752, it is probable that this meeting prepared the way for future success, though its action, at that time, did not result in anything definite. At the Annual Meeting in 1750, among other things, it was voted " to hire a school master for six months m ye summer season, to teach ye children, to read and write." We may point to this vote, with great pleasure. That a town, which had been settled only twenty-one years, and had, probably, less than three hundred inhabitants, should be at the expense of sustaining a school half the year, was an act, which forms one of the bright- est spots in our history. Tlie next distinguishing feature, in the policy adopted by our fathers, to the noble example they set in the worship of God, is oui- system of Common Schools. The men, who settled New England, entertained correct ideas of true glory. They had been schooled in adversity, and had learned to estimate truly himian greatness and human power. — They knew that " knowledge is power." In the ignorance and superstition that shrouded the Old World in error, shut out the glad light of hberty, and fastened upon Europe the badges of the most despotic governments, they saw the destmy that awaited them in their new homes, imless they should lay deep the found- ations of knowledge. They knew that freedom,without knowledge, 20 was but anotlier name for slavery. The arrogant assumptions of the Papal authority, the Ititter, unrelenting cruelty of the Dark Ages, their own persecutions by their own fire-sides, served to make them strive more zealously, to estabhsh what they con- ceived to 1)0 the truth. Our fathers saw the degradation of the masses of the Old "World, and resolved that no such heritage should be the lot of their children. At the same time they erected their own dwelhngs, they also erected the school house. When they established the Common School system, they per- formed an act, Avhose influence will reach down through all time. Had it not been for the iiitelliyence of the men of 1776, America had never been free. Had it not been for Common Schools, our enterprise would not whiten every sea with the sails of our ships ; our commerce would not extend to the most distant ports ; our fabrics would not compete so successfully with those of more favored climes ; our glorious Union itself AvoiUd not have stood so long, unshaken by the dangers, which threaten it without and within. Caesar, the hero of three hundred battles, the subjugator of eight hundred cities, the conqueror of three millions of people, one milhon of whom he slew in battle, has, indeed, rendered his name immortal. But long after the influence of his deeds shall have ceased to be felt, when his name shall be remembered only to be associated with scenes of cruelty, shall the humble, unpre- tending acts of the Pilgrims move the mighty masses that shall come after them. The greatest foe to tyranny is knowledge. Millions, yet un- born, will unite to bless the men, "• who broke the magic spell of ignorance and of error." We do not feel the full weight of the debt of gratitude, which we owe to the memory of our fathers. Not till we contrast our fortune with that of the millions of Europe, who are now strug- gUng to burst the bonds that have so long held them in ignorance, and in humiliating dependence upon the nobihty, can we feel the superiority of our condition. How difierent is the condition of Common Schools at the present day, from Avhat it was one hundred years ago ! Then, the town voted to hire a teacher for six months, to teach only 21 reading and writinf;:;. So limited a course of education at thi:^ day, would hardly be tliought a very great accomplishment. But their effort for the education of the rising generation Avill seem a noble one, when we consider, that then almost the whole world was buried in ignorance ; that only here and there did the bright rays of knowledge illumine the foce of the earth ; that then people considered the possession of knowledge beyond their reach, and forbore to strive after it ; that one century ago, the world was groping in the dark, — all knowledge of the truth effectually shut out from the minds of the people, except when imparted through the medium of men, whose interest it was to keep the masses in ignorance. Even in 1750, our town would compare favorably Avith the condition of many parts of our coun- try at the present time. In our so\ithern and western States, there is many an individual, who can neither read nor write. But an hundred 3'ears ago, it was not a common thhig to find a New Englander who could not do both. There are many yet living, who can count their whole term of " schooling " by weeks ; who traveled miles to school, and thought themselves fortunate to enjoy such privileges. The school houses of that time were wanting in almost every con- venience, and possessed none of the luxuries of modern times. Though often hardly worthy the name of a school house, often containing only a single room, cold and uncomfortable, amid the miniature snow banks, which crept stealthily in between the crevices of the hewn logs, and through the cheerless days of winter, were educated as brave men and noble hearts as ever lived. The Testament was then the only reading and spelling book known ; and a copy-book consisted of a few leaves of the rough- est paper. To this limited Hst of studies, Ai-ithmetic was soon added. At first no text-book was used. Such examples as would come up in the ordinary course of a man's business, were given out by the teacher, and the four fundamental rules taught orally. In time, Pike's Arithmetic made its appearance, grew into gen- eral favor, and for a long time remained in exclusive use. But that, like every thing else, must give place to improvement. Then followed "Welch's, Adams's Old, and New, Colburn's, and 22 lastly, to the honor of" our town, the analytical, thorough and concise treatise, by one of Hampstead's most distinguished sons.* The rapidity with which it grew into general favor, the extensive adoption of it in most of our schools, and the success with which it maintained its favor with the pubhc in face of the most perse- vering competition, is proof, stronger than words, of its real merits. There is not time to notice all the improvements introduced into our schools. What distrust accompanied the introduction of new studies, what Avry faces were made over the unintelhgible pages of Murray, what bitter tears were shed over hard, half- learned tasks, and what fear of bUstered hands or smarting limbs, — we leave for other pens on different occasions. It is proper, however, to allude to the important changes that have taken place in reading books. The New Testament was, at j&rst, the only reading book used. But from the sacredness ■of the book, and on account of its being ill adapted to the ca- pacities of different ages, it was superseded by other books. The American Preceptor and, for a long time also, the EngUsh Reader, were favorite text-books. In the improvements of the age, these books gave way to a series well adapted to the differ- ent ages and capacities of youth, by another distinguished son of Hampstead.f For several years the town honored him by the exclusive adoption of his books. But the love for new things is irresistible ; and Emerson's Reading Books have been partially laid aside, to make room for other candidates for public favor. The same author has furnished to the world a simple, neat, well, arranged and correct spelling-book, :|: which has been exclusively adopted in the schools in this town for nearly twenty years. The hundreds of editions that have been pubhshed, its almost univer- sal adoption in schools, and the long time it has been in use, are sure guaranties of its worth. The rival, that can supplant it, must present the strongest claims of excellence. The man who pubhshes a book for Common School use, wields a mighty influence. The character of his book operates upon * The North American Arithmetic, in three parts, by Frederick Emerson, Instructor in Boston. t Benjamin D. Emerson, Esq., Roxbury, Mass. I Emerson's National Spelling Boob. 23 the mind when it is most susceptible of bias. It is the duty of the people, then, to look into the character of the instruments, ■which aid in forming the most lasting impressions the youthful mind ever receives. I believe no other town has the honor of being the birth-place of men, whose school books have been so universally approved and adopted. This fact, together with the esteem with which we have always regarded them, must be my apology for alluding to what, at first sight, might not seem strictly appropriate to the occasion. Our fathers had not the advantages which we enjoy. The to^Nvn, in 1750, contained but one district, and according to the tenns of the vote, the school was to be sustained only in the summer season. Its advantages could not, therefore, have been extensive. The great distance must have excluded most of the smaller children, and the duties of the farm and of the dairy, in the busiest season of the year, must have deprived many of the elder cliildren from attending. The first attempts in other parts of New England, to estabhsh schools, were attended with similar inconveniences, and produced only the same Hmited advantages. But from this small germ, has grown up around us our strongest bulwark of defence. It is the cause of our miexampled pros- perity. In vain will bigotry or infidehty attempt to undermine our security, while our system of Common Schools is cherished as one of the most efficient aids to religion, and national prosperity. The foundation of all prosperity is in an enlightened communi- ty. An ignorant people, though inhabiting the most favored land on earth, soon sinks into insignificance. Our extended searcoast invites the merchant to traverse the ocean for trade with every clime. Our fertile valleys have given employment to the agriculturalist. Our numerous water-falls have attracted the enterprising manufacturer. " Cities spring up Hke exhalar tions, under the magic touch of his wand, and the hum of machin- ery arises out of the midst of a thrifty, industrious and happy people." The majestic plains and rivers of the West have col- lected adventurers from every part of the world. Our country exhibits to other nations the unexampled rise and prosperity of a free, self-governed, and educated people. The Common 24 School system has heen one of the most effective means in pro- ducing these magic clianges. Its benefits and its inevitable re* suits are arguments -which come directly home to the hearts and understandings of the great body of the people. To the fore- sight and wisdom of the Pilgrims, are we indebted for this rich legacy. With what care and anxiety, then, shoidd we cherish it, so that we may hand it down to those who shall come after us, not only untarnished, but in our hands made the instrument of increased good. Time forbids indulging in any further reflections, to which so fruitfid a subject invites our attention. The remahiing events in our town's history must be rapidly run over. At this time there appears to have been some trouble concern- ing the l^irsonage lands. The Proprietors of Haverhill granted to the inhabitants of Timber Lane, a tract of land " for ye use of ye first mmister who should settle here." At this meeting in 1750, it was voted " that Estj. Little, Capt. Copps and John Webster should be a committee to agree with Thos. Haynes to go off ye Parsonage land, if they can do it on reasonable terms." This committee was unsuccessful in effecting a settlement Avith Mr. Haynes. It is not easy to ascertain wherein the difficidty consisted. The dispute was about the title. At different meet- ings the town choose committees to prosecute the trespassers, or to settle with them, or to refer the matter. So many votes were passed and reconsidered, that it is not possible to ascertain how the matter was finally adjusted. The last vote upon the town records, is to give it to any one to hold in fee simple, who will take up the case and prosecute it to final judgment. Probably some amicable adjustment was made, which secured the lands to the town.* An article Avas inserted in the warrant " to see if ye town would give Mr. Merriam a call to settle as a gospel minister in ye town." From a defect in the records, it cannot be ascertain- ed what was done. In August, 1750, at a meeting holden for the purpose, a com- * Since the above was delivered,! have learned that the above named lands do not make a part of the present Parsonage. They are situated on the west road leading from Mr. Daniel Emerson's to the Wadley Corner. Rev. Henry True, soon after his settle- ment,sold out his interest for a mere song, andthe purchaser made a very profitable m- Tcstment of his money. niittcc was chosen '' to supply ye pulpit, with ye advice of ye neighboring ministers." A similar vote was passed in 1751. The town thus had prea(5hing most of the time. At a meeting held on the 25th day of February, 1752, the town voted, to *' choose and elect Mr. Henry True, to settle vnth. us in ye work of ye ministry." " Voted to give Mr. True for his annual salary £450, each of ye two first years, in money, old tenor, or equal to it in money ; and after ye two first years are expired? then £500 a year, of ye like money, during ye time he contin- ues to carry on ye work of 3'e ministry amongst us, in this town of Hampstead." At an adjourned meeting, they voted, as an additional inducement for him to come, " XIOOO, 0. t., one-half in bills of credit, and ye other half in labor and materials for building — also twenty cords of wood, annually, after he hath a family. Also ye peaceable possession of ye land, granted by the Proprietors of Haverhill, to ye first minister who should settle in Timber Lane." To the call of the town, and this liberal offer, Mr. True returned a letter of acceptance.* Mr. True came from Sahsbury, Mass. He was graduated at Harrard College, m 1750, and was ordained June 24th, 1752, and continued in the ministry almost thirty years, till his death. " He always maintained the character of a good man," (says Rev. Mr. Kelly,) " agreeably to the text. Acts 11: 24, which Rev. Edward Barnard of Haverhill preached from, at his ordina- tion. During the first half of his ministry, no clergjnnan was more highly esteemed, or better treated by the people than he was. As his family increased, they added to his salary ; the whole sum that the people gave him, over his regular salary, was nearly $3000 ; and this was when the daily wages of select- men were only two shilUngs, But towards the close of his ministry, they cut down his salary, for several yeare, to $200 a year. Other ministers came into the place, and by their zealoua and loud speaking, produced great commotion, but no revival among the people, who were very sanguine and versatile in their opinions. This did not unsettle the good minister, nor sully his character in the view of any man, but it reduced his salary and the number of his hearers, so that after his decease, the people ♦See Appendix, A. 26 were in trouble." For many years, in conseriuence of a division- amongst themselves, tliej attempted, unsuccessfully, to settle a new minister. In 1755, during tlie old French War, Mr. True Avent into the army as chaplain ; also, again in 1762. In a letter to his wife, dated July 11th, at Crown Point, he gives an interesting account of matters occuring in the camp ; he speaks of the great drought which was so fetal to the crops that year. His connection with the army does not appear to have been marked by any striking events. After remaining there the appointed time, he returned to his family and people. Mr. True died suddenly on the 22d of May, 1782, in the fifty-seventh year of his age. It was on the Sabbath, just as he was ready to leave his house for the house of God, to preach as usual, when, with scarcely a moment's warning, he was called to " a tabernacle not made with handis," to spend an eternal Sabbath of rest. Mr. True was the means of doing much good ; his influence is felt to this day. He left a numerous ftimily of children, who settled in different parts of our land, and carried with them the habits and virtues, which their father instilled into their minds, in their youth. Dr. Jabez True, his son, was one of the first settlers of Ohio ; he led a life of more than ordinary usefulness. He died in 1823, at the age of sixty-three. His memory is still cherished by the descendants of the early pioneers of that great State, for his universal charity, simplicity of manners, and sincere piety. Rev. Henry True, another son, was, for many years, settled in the State of Maine, and now^, in his old age, is enjoying the <3onsciousness of having lived a useful life, and is commanding the veneration and respect of every one. The people of this town can bear testimony to the life of use- - fulness, which another of the family has led. Her visits of mercy to the sick, her sympathy for the poor and distressed, her disinterested zeal in works of charity and benevolence, have en- deared her to us with many ties of affection. In 1753, the town offered a bounty of four pounds on every Ttolf killed in the town. An incident, which occured about this 27 time, was the cause of the passage of this vote. Lieut. Peter Morse was tending a coal pit upon his land, at some distance from his house. At night, Avhcn ready to return to his family, he found himself surrounded hy several wolves. He was ohliged to pass along and sleepless night in the forest, and saved his life only by continually throwing fire-brands at them. Every vestige of the wilderness has long been removed. Among the most vexatious and often calamitous annoyances, which were continually harrassing om* ancestors, was the attack of wild beasts upon their flocks. The warrant for the annual meeting in 175G commences with the caption, — " Province of New Hampshire. In His Majesty's name, you are required to meet," &c. This caption was used this year for the first time, and was continued till the commence- ment of the Revolutionary War, when it was changed to " Col- ony of New Hampshire. In the name of the Government and People, you are notified," &c. After the formation of the Con- stitution, it was again changed to " State of New Hampshire. In the name of said State, you are," &c. These changes of captions, though considered small matters in themselves, serve to show how ready the people were to renounce all allegiance to the King of England. In 1758, a committee was chosen to defend a suit brought by the town of Kmgston against Hampstead. The difficulty con- tinued eight years, before it was settled. Before the State line Avas run in 1741, Hampstead as now constituted, belonged mostly to Haverhill. But a small portion of the eastern part of the toAvn, which went by the name of Amesbury Peak, was claimed, both by Kingston and by Amesbury, although the latter town exercised jurisdiction over the territory. Kingston then com- prehended all that is now called Kingston, East Kingston, Dan- ville and Sandown, and behig incorporated fifty-five years before Hampstead, would also embrace the disputed territory, after the running of the State line. Though that town had slept fifty-five years, before the incorporation of Hampstead, and eleven years after its incorporation, yet in 17G0, " they at last waked up, and fell upon this town with redoubled force, with writ after writ." These law suits caused the town a i2:ood deal of trouble. 28 and many meetings were called for the purpose of settling the difficulty, or defending the suits. At one time, the town voted to pay Kingston one thousand pounds, old tenor, and costs, which must have amounted to a round sum. There is another vote to pay Kingston twelve hundred pounds, and still another to pay three thousand pounds. But it is difficult to say whether the town ever paid Kingston anything, except the costs. At this state of the difficulty, the Governor interfered, and com- promised the matter, by a grant to Kingston, of a tract of land near the Connecticut River. The new township was named Unity, because the granting of it made peace between Hamp- stead and Kingston. The settlement was finally effected in 1776. It would be very fortunate if all difficulties, arising out of disputed territories, could be settled as amicably as this was.* In 1762, the town voted " to keep the meeting house doors shut against all such preachers, whose principles and conduct are such, that neither Congregational nor Presbyterian Churches amongst us can hold communion with, or admit as preachers." From the testimony of Mr. Kelly, " almost all the followers of the new preachers became downright infidels, of which, it is believed, this town had more than any other then known in the State. They sowed the seeds of wickedness so much, that their pernicious influence was felt for many years afterwards, by the goodly number of sober people, who then had no minister to speak the word of truth, and break the bread of life to them." This account should be taken with some grains of allowance. Mr. Kelly wrote with all the prejudices of a zealous minister of the eighteenth century. The Puritans looked with jealousy up- on any sect of Christians, other than their own. The people of this town partook fully of that feeUng, and very probably, op- posed the new creeds springing up around them, so bitterly, as to cause those who were indifferent to any particular creed in I'eligion, to sympatliise w^th the persecuted. This is always the result of bitter opposition. Often, the surest way to put down error, is to leiave it unnoticed. If the doctrine has merits of *" Historical Sketch of Hampstead." The above account by Mr. Kelly >!i the onlr «l'S.tett)p.nl to be/ijgnd of ilir Kinjj^'loii difficulty. 20 its own, it will then stand upon tliem alone ; and if it is really an error, it will fall and destroy itself in its own ruins. The pay of Selectmen, about this time, Avas two shillings per day, lawful money. The town, at the annual meeting, voted what compensation the Selectmen for the year previous, should receive. Sometimes they voted to pay them nothing. This was not a very complimentary estimate of the value of their services; but if our public servants at the present day, should be paid for the good they actually do perform, they would, undoubtedly, be more active to perform their duties faithfully, and less eager to sustain the burdens of public office. Our town has had its share of pubhc calamities. In 173T, in the latter part of the winter, large numbers of cattle died from scarcity of hay ; and many families suffered extremely from want of bread. In 1738, " there was a remarkable worm, which ate the leaves from the oak trees. Other vegetation also suffered." *' In 1741, the winter was colder than almost any man ever be- fore knew in New England." In 1749, was the greatest drought ever known in the land. One person writes, " that five acres of good land, newly laid down, produced but one load of hay. That he mowed several days, and could not cut two hundred a day." Some people cut down trees for their cattle to browse, and many sent to Virginia for hay. The corn crop yielded well that year, else their sufTerings must have been severe. In 1756, a maUgnant fever prevailed, which swelled the number of deaths to thirty. In a population of three hundred, this was a fearful mortality. Tliese calamities are, however, too well known to require any further notice. The circumstances of procuring the bell in this town are at- tended with some interest. Dea. Thomas Huse, of West New- bury, Mass., in 1809, owned and lived upon the Island. He was a particular friend of Mr. Kelly, and said to him one day, " you have a steeple here and need a bell. If you will go to Mr. George Holbrook, of Brookfield, and speak for a bell, I will pay for it." The bell was accordingly procured and brought upon the ground, before any man in Hampstead knew anything about it, except the two who had been spoken to, to make the frame. It was first suspended from a limb of the old oak tree, in this 30 neif^hborhood, and rmvj:, much to tlie surprise of all the people who had not been apprised of the event ;* a very harmless and agreeable way of perpetrating a joke. f It is worthy of note, that there are seven farms in this town, that have remained in the same families over one hundred years.:): It is an old and familiar adage, " there's no place like home ;" these farms, then, must be doubly dear to their present owners. The reminiscences of childhood, and the scenes enacted around these hearth-stones of their fathers, render these places dear to them, with a thousand ties of afiection. At a special meeting of the toAvn, called on the twentieth of December, 1774, it was voted, " that the money called for from this town, in order to support the expense of the Delegates of the General Congress sent by this Province, shall be paid out of the town stock." " Also that a Committee of Inspection§ be chosen to regard the conduct of the people, touching the associa- tion of the General Congress." At a special meeting, held July fifteenth, 1776, it was voted " to raise a sum of money sufficient to hire thirteen men, sent for by Col. Gale, as the proportion of this town, to join the Con- tinental Army under Gen, Sullivan, at Canada, or at Crown Point," " Voted to set aside and excuse all those persons, who have done a turn in the war the last year, or their proportion of a turn in said war, from paying any part." The town also chose a committee to hire and enlist the thirteen men called for, and empowered them to procure money for the payment of the soldiers. This meeting was held, either immediately upon the reception ♦Many of the foregoing facti and statements .ire found in the " Sketch of Harapstead," before alluded to. t The following extract is taken from the deed of conveyance by Dea. Iluse: •' I, Thomas Huse of llampstead, &c,, in consideration of the love, and good will, and alfection which I have and hear to the inhabitants of the town of Hampstead in general, and to the Congregational Church and Society in particular, and with a view and desite to unite a spirit of liberality, and toprcmote good order, harmony and peace in the paid town of Hampstead, have given, granted, and confirmed, and by these presents do uive, grant, and confirm unto the said town of Hampstead, for the use and benefit of said inhabitants in general, and for the use and benefit of said Church and Society in particu- lar, — forerer — a certain meeting house hell now on the meeting liousein spid Hampstead, made by George Holbrook, at JJrookfield, Mass. * * *" — Records of Hampstead, Vol. 2, pp. G2-3. X These farmi are either owned or occupied by the following persons, respectively, viz: Mr. Jonathan Williams; Heirs ef John H. Clark, who died the present season ; Mr. Caleb Hadley ; Dr. Samufl Morse ; Mr. Moses Atwood ; Mr. Aniasa EaslDian ; and WidovM- Mary Calef. f, See Appendix. .'51 of the news of the Dechiration of Iiidepcudcnce, or a few days prior, and when that instrument -was the general subject of thouglit and conversation. It shows that ours was not behind other towns, in responding to the action of Congress, Commit- tees of Inspection were chosen at ^'arious times, during the war. In 1777, another draft Avas made upon this town, " for men to join the Continental Army under Coh Bai-tlctt." The town im- mediately voted to send the men, and joined the Selectmen with the commissioned officers, to procure them. In December 1777, John Calfe was chosen a " Representa- tive to act in the General Assembly to be holden at Exeter, with full 2)0iver to transact such measures as the Assembl}^ might judge necessary for the public good ; and, also, to choose Dele- gates to the Continental Congress." Mr. Calfe was annually chosen to represent the town, till our present Constitution was- adopted. The unlimited power entrusted to him, speaks volumes in favor of his integrity, and of the confidence the people repos- ed in him. It also shows, that this town was ready to perform its share of the great Revolution to be effected on this Continent. Many other towns would not empower their Delegates with full authority, from a distrust of the expediency of many of the measures then proposed, but Avhich time has proved to have been wisely enacted. In 1778, a Committee was chosen " to provide for the families of those that had gone into the army for the town of Hampstead."^ At the annual meeting in 1778, it was voted, even in anticipa- tion, " to procure the soldiers that might be called for during the year." In 1779, it was voted " to allow those soldiers that were for and from this town, something for their losses in their retreat from Tianteroga, [Ticonderoga,(?)] in 1777." At a special meeting, in May 1779, they voted "to procure the men, ■(five in number,) then called for, and also to raise more men, if called for that year." Again, in July, another meeting was called and new measures taken to procure men to join the New- Hampshire battalion ; and, also to procure men to go to Rhode Island, to join the army there. At this time the paper currency, issued by Congress, had depreciated so much, as to be almost worthless. The people of Portsmouth met to consider what 32 remedy could best be applied. Their consultation resulted in fixing a price for all articles of merchandise, which should be uniform throughout the State. The Selectmen of Portsmouth issued Circulars to the different towns, asking their cooperation. At a special meeting, this town " voted to come into the plan adopted by Portsmouth, provided three-fourths of the other towns should do the same." The adoption of this plan, neces- sarily resulted in great pecuniary sacrifices. There are many other interesting votes passed during the Revolution ;* but enough have been noticed, to show that tliis town took an active part in that great struggle. There was no time during the war, when it did not furnish its full quota of men. Its money was freely given, and its men willingly sent forth to fight the battles of a common country. In Rhode Island, on the shores of Lake George, and at Crown Point, are entombed the ashes of our townsmen. In common with the rest of our country, our ancestors were aroused by the msults and injuries heaped upon them by England. They fought against powerful odds. In the darkest periods of the Revolution, the hardy yeomanry flocked around the standard of America, and AVi'ested from the hands of our mother land, the power which she vainly asserted. In the eloquent language of another,f " those were times that tried men's souls, and never, in any age, or in any country, did there exist a race of men, whose souls were better fitted for the trial. Patient in suffering, firm in ad- versity, calm and collected amid the dangers which pressed around them, cool in council and brave in battle, they were wor- thy of the cause, and the cause was worthy of them." In their privations and wrongs, " the sufferers were upheld by that kind of holy fortitude, which enabled the christian martyrs to smile amidst the flames, and to triumph, even in the agonies of death." * * * " Every grade of society, all ages, and both sexes, kindled in this sacred competition of patriotism. The Ladies of the Colonies, in the dawn, and throughout the whole progress of the Revolution, shone Avith preeminent lustre, in this war of •There are other votes recorded in the town books, passed during the difficulty with France, in the PreaiUency of John Adams. Also siniilai votes, passed during the war of 1812. t W'irl'«L.ife o( Putriclt lifiirv. fortitude and self-denial. They renounced, Avithuut a si.^li, the \isc of the luxuries and even of the comforts, to -which they had liecn accustomed, and felt a nobler pride m appearing dressed in the simple productions of their own looms, than they had ever experienced from glittering in the brightest ornaments of the East." If our fathers and mothers did not occupy so prominent a place in the great drama of the Revolution, as others who lived nearer the scenes of active operations, it was not because they lacked brave and patriotic spirits. They contributed their full ut Ave know wlio will not l)c actors then. Wc shall be " gathered to our fathers." The sun will shine as bri Dear Sir : — The invitation to attend the Centennial Celebration which you have been so kind as to send me, has awakened mingled emotions ©f regret and pleasure. Of regret, because on account of duties hero ■which demand my constant attention, I cannot be present and participate in the festivities of that interesting occasion. But of pleasure, because I am informed that those in whose welfare I am interested, the inhabitants of my native place, are to enjoy a season which I am confident will be both pleasant and profitable. It strikes me as being a very suitable way of turning the glorious Anniversary of our National Independence to good account. The connexion between the two events is by no means obscure, and the recollections which cluster around both of them, are calculated to render the celebration one of peculiar interest. The sons of New England have reason to be proud of their ancestors, those noble men, who lived and acted not for themselves, but for their God, their country, and posterity. They are gone, but their works do follow them. The seed which they have sown has yielded precious fruit. It will be well to revive the recollection of former days, and of the men of former days, that the present generation may see how the liberty and prosperity which they now enjoy, have been gained, and may learn to value more highly the instructions of religion and learning for which we are largely indebted to our fathers. Please to extend to the Committee of Arrangements my most sincere and grateful acknowledgments for their kind remembrance of me among the many wanderers who are proud to say that Old Hampstead was our native place. And accept for yourself, my warmest assurances of personal regard. I am, sir, Very respectfully, yours &c. J. B. DAVIS. Letter from ]\lr. Arthur W. Marshall, now at Valparaiso, Chili, unexpectedly called to sail to South America, about a month sooner than he intended, and thereby prevented from being present at the celebration. Ship Vistula, E. Boston, June 26, 1849. Isaac Smith, Esq., Chairman of Committee of Arrangements : My Dear Sir: — I have but a moment to spare, but I cannot let the opportunity pass without offering a word for your celebration on the 4tli. Though 1 shall be far away from the home of my childhood, a wanderer 56 on the pathless ocean, my ihoughts, feelings and sympaUiks will be on that day, with the friends of my native town, mingling'- with their joys, participating- in their festivities. - The occasion will be one in which every citizen of Hampstead must have a deep interest, for you are as- sembled for the noble purpose of reviewing the virtuous deeds of our fore- fathers, of enquiring who bequeathed the blessings we enjoy, and who left us our goodly heritage. As expressive of my feelings on that oc- casion, allow me to quote the following from one of Moore's beautiful melodies : " Wl)ere'er mv patli lies, be it gloomy or bright, My soul, happy friends ! sliall be with you tbat night, Shall join in your revels, your sports, and your wiles, And return to me beaming all o'er with your smiles ! 'J'oo blessed, if it tells me that, 'mid the gay cheer. Some Kind voice had murnysred, " I wish he were here"j Let fate do her worst, Iher ' are relics of joy, Bright dreams of the past, which she cannot destroy, Which come in the night time of sorrow and care And bring back the features that joy used to weary .) Long, long be my heart with such memories filled, -^ Like the vase in which roses have once been distilled. You may break, you may ruin the vase if you will, But the scent of the roses will hang round it still." I close with the following sentiment: Old Hampstead ! May she never be forgotten by any of her children. With high regard, I am truly yours, A. W. MARSHALL. uc Letter from Mr. Edmund T. Eastman, of Boston, Mass. Boston, JuLT 2d, 1849. Isaac Smith, Esq., Chairman of Committee of ^Arrangements : Sir: — I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communi- cation of the eighteenth ultimo, extending to me a polite invitation to be present on the 4th inst., at the very appropriate exercises commemo- rative of the event of the chartering of the " Town of Hampstead, one hundred years ago." Permit me, dear sir, to thank you for your kind remembrance, and to assure you and all my fellow townsmen, that it would afford me the highest pleasure and satisfaction to be present on that interesting occa- sion — but I have exceedingly to regret, that previous engagements, ab- solutely forbid. Still, you will allow me to flatter myself that in imagi- nation I shall be with you, touched with something of that enthusiasm, pride, and love of one's native town which ought to burn in the breast of every wanderer from the "Homestead," and which the exercises of that day will be pre-eminently adapted to excite. On that day I will think of those who there began life with me — some of whom are with you — some of whom are far away — two that we have bid God-speed over the wide ocean — and some of whom are at rest ; — and of the many pleasing and profitable associations of my earlier life. Then, too, will I call to mind what our fathers have told us, of the many "virtues and noble deeds" of their and our ancestors. In conclusion, allow me to offer the following ivish, or if you please " sentiment:" Hampstead — May those who wander from her reflect so;/ie rays of light apou ihw eocuicheou ot" their lathers' glory, and do houur to the spot Uut gave them birth. Your humble and most obedient servant, EDMUND T. EASTMAN, Letter from Mr. Hazen L. Hoyt, of Sturbridge, Mass. Sturbridge, June 30, 1849. IsAic Smith, Esq., Chairman of Committee of Jlrrangemtnts : Dear Sir : — I have received your very iiind in.itation to return to Old Hampstead, and join in the pleasures of the Celebration on the 4th of July, — but, thoufjh my heart will be with you on that occasion, I feel obIio:ed to decline the invitation. We have a Youn^ Men's Celebration in Sturbridge, and I was chosen and agreed to act as one of the Marshals of the day, previous to the receipt of your letter. Your obedient servant, H. L. HOYT.. Letter* from Rev. Joseph Smith, of Newport, R. I. Newport, (R. I.) Ju.ne 24 1849. To THE Committee of Arrangements : Gentlemen : — Most sincerely do I regret my inability to comply with your polite invitation to be present at the Centennial Celebration of the eettlement of my native town. The longer I live, the more deeply am I sensible that I owe much', very much, to the place of my birth. And most happy should I be, might my wandering feet, with others, press again the soil, which first they trod, and bear back some tribute of affection and respect. Though more than half of my years have been passed in other places, and amidst other scenes, yet what are other places and other scenes compared with the place of my birth, and the scenes of my youth ! To me, the latter, compared with the former, seem like the ever changing, boist/^roug, foaming waters above, compared with the firm, unchanging, ever-abiding rock that lies deep beneath. Indeed, it seems to me, I am what I am, because I was what I was ; and I was what I was, because the place and circumstances of my birth and early life contributed in no small degree to make me such. Yes ! my early, my first earthly home, I love thee still; thy vales and hills, thy fields and forests, thy flowing streams and silvery lakes, thy summer breeze, and thy winter's snow, iliy rising and thy setting suns, thy wild flowers that blessed the eye by day, and the stars that crowned thy nights. Yes ! I love thee, and praise my maker, that, in such a place, so free from snares, He was pleased to give me being and nurse me into manhood. Yes ! I love thee, and ever shall, for there my father sleeps! and brothers! Mij home in the Granile Stale — Long may thy glory be, thy Granite men, living pillars, supporting, unmoved, amidstevery storm, Christianity, Science, and Good Government. Respectfully, your friend, and ob't serv't, JOSEPH SMITH. ♦This and the following letter were received too late to be read at the Celebration, but lie Inserted hfrs T-'fth cthns. s 58 Letter from Mr. Horatio G. K. Calef, of Boston, Mass. Boston, July 3d, (Evening,) 1849. Isaac Smith, Esq., Chairman of Committee of Jirrangements : Dtar Sir : — Your polite letter of invitatioin to unite with my former respected townsmen in the celebration of the first Centennial Anniversary of the Incorporation of the good old Town of Hampstead, was duly re- ceived, and until this moment, I had fully purposed to have availed my- self of it, and had anticipated much pleasure in participating in the fes- tivities and exercises of the occasion. But I am sorry to say that cir- cumstances beyond my control, render it impracticable. That the celebration may be pleasant, and long to be remembered, is the wish of, Dear Sir, Yours very truly, H. G. K. CALEF. After the reading of letters was concluded, the remainder of the afternoon was taken up in offering sentiments and making short speeches. No regular toasts were offered upon the occasion, but the President of the Dav invited all "to make themselves perfectly at home," as it was a "Home Celebration."* Isaac Smith, Esq., offered the following sentiment: The City of Boston — Indebted to New Hampshire for her great men, and to Hampstead for her most successful Authors. Erederick Emerson, Esq., of Boston, who had just arrived up- on the ground, now came forward, and ofter apologizing for his late appearance, responded as follows : 3Ir. President and Fellow Toivnsnien, — There is not in our whole country another place, which could at this hour, present to my feelings matters of interest to be compared with those which here surround me. As I left the metropolis, a few hours since, the national stars and stripes were floating from the lofty turrets ; glittering columns of soldiery were parading the pub- lic streets ; floral processions of school-children were promenad- ing upon the pubhc green ; bells were pealing from every church-tower ; bugles were pouring their music upon the air ; cannons were booming from the heights where first the Patriotic Fathers entrenched in the cause of freedom ; and, to complete the scene, there stood on Bunker Hill, the gigantic pile — erect in solemn grandeur — alike the representative of the past, and the presiding genius of the present. The scene was indeed impos- ing, and fitly so ; but I left without regret, for my heart was not there — its impulse was homeward. I say, homeward, my friends, for, although I have been long absent from among you, * The sentiments offered upon the occasion were not preserved, and no minutes wer« lak«n of the speeches. The following account is written out entirely from memory. 59 and every member of my pateraal family has either removed elsewhere, or gone down to the silent grave, still the local at- tachments of childhood and youth are unbroken, and there is no place on earth but Hampstead, that my habituol feelings regard as home. The abiding force of early associations is not pecuhar to myself — it is common to all, who were duly impressed in early life by the kind offices of parental care. The sentiment is most happily illustrated in the beautiful lines of Sir Walter Scott — " Breathes there a man with soul so dead, Who never to himself hath said, This is my own, my native land ! Whose heart hath ne'er within him burned, As home his footsteps he hath turned From wandering on a foreign strand ? If such there breathe, go mark him well : For him no minstrel raptures swell ; High though his titles, proud his name, Boundless his wealth as wish can claim ; Despite those titles, power, and pelf, The wretch, concentred all in self. Living, shall forfeit fair renown, And, doubly dying, sliall go down To the vile dust, from whence he sprung, Unwept, unhonored, and unsung." It is some thirty years, my friends, since I ceased to be a resident among you ; and as I now look around upon the present audience, composed of both sexes and all ages, I am forcibly impressed with the changes that time has wrought upon this community. I see before me the same volunteer company in which I once had the honor of a subaltern command, but no fellow soldier of mine is there — they have all laid down their arms ; and the field is taken by another generation. As I di- rect my attention to the numerous ladies of the assembly, I recognize, here and there, an early acquaintance, who, at the time I left the town, was just emerging from her teens, full of vivacity, ever contributing to the enjoyments of the social circle ; and, by the sweetness and chasteness of her manners, uncon- sciously inspiring the youth of our own sex with generous and manly sentiments. Now, she sits, the sedate matron, sobered, though not saddened by the cares of hfe. Again, as I turn my eyes upon the Fathers of the town, seated upon this rostrum, I see one, and another, and another venerable man, whom I left in the full strength of his days pursuing the purposes of life, with activity and energy. He is not now, as then. The flakes of time have fallen hghtly, but thickly on his head. He retains, indeed, his seat in your councils, but he has given into stronger hands the implements of husbandry, and resigned to more am- bitious minda the lead of afiliirs. 80 If sucli changes have been -wrought in the lapse of thirty years, what must have been the changes of a century ! I •mil not go back upon their history — that duty has been ably and adequately performed by my young brother townsman who pre* ceded me ; and I congratulate both you and him, on the uni- versal satisfaction which his services have given. Mr. President, the town of Hampstead may truly be called a nursery — ^her sons are to be found, transplanted throughout the country . There is no profession, no department of business, in which they have not engaged, none in whicli thej have not succeeded. I have met them in my travels, have seen them at their homes ; and seldom have I found one, who has not done honor to the place of his origin. Inured in early hfe to habits of industry and economy, they readily accumulate a competence. Having grown up under the constant influence of a gospel minis- try, they are usually found to be in the practice of moral prin- ciples, and, not unfrequently, in the exercise of religious faith. With these traits of character to commend them, they seldom fail to be numbered with the valued and respected class of the community in which they reside. After bearing this testimony in favor of the absent sons of Hampstead, allow me, Mr. Presi- dent, to close with a corresponding sentiment. The Fathers and the Mothers oj Hampstead —May the virtues of tbei Sons and Daughters illuminate the evening of their life. 2d. By Capt. Jesse Ayer. Our Puritan Ancestors — We glory in being their descendants. May we honor them, by cherishing their pinciples, and copying their exaniple. Rev. Jesse Page, of Atkinson, rose and said : That he had taken great pleasure in participating in the ex- ercises of the day, and had been highly gratified. He had not the honor of being a native of Hampstead, but he belonged to an adjoining town and his ancestors were intimately connected with the first settlers of Hampstead, and he could claim here many intimate friends. The settlers of the two towns were descendants from the Puritans, and engaged in a common cause. He regretted the necessity of immediately returning home, and his inability to remain longer. He begged to be excused from speaking longer, and from offering any sentiment. He would, however, express the wish, that the people of Hampstead and Atkinson would continue, as in days past, to imitate the example and cherish the principles of the Puritans. 54- Tlte City of .V(?M? York — In the War of the Revolution, earnest fcnd active to resist oppression. She will be auioug; ilie last places of America to betray tlie cause of liberty. Mr. Albert L. Eastman said, He supposed the sentiment just offered, was designed for him ; that he rose to reply Tvith great rehictance, because his native townsmen knew he was unused to pubhc speaking. His whole life in New York had been devoted to the dry goods busi- ness, and however much he might be at home in that line, he felt out of his element in attempting to make his first speech. He could not, however, do less than assure them of his undi- minished love for his native town ; that as soon as he heard of the proposed celebration, he determined to be present and par- ticipate with his fellow townsmen in the festivities of the occasion. As one of the improvements of the age, he would mention that he left New York the evening previous, and on the morning of the 4th, at nine o'clock, found himself again on his native soil. Such speed in travellmg, would have seemed incredible to our ancestors in 1749. In conclusion he would offer as a sentiment, The Orator of the Day. Mr. Isaac W. Smith, in responding to this call, said He had trespassed so long upon their attention in the morn- ing, that he would detain them but a few moments. He accepted the invitation of the Committee, to prepare the address, with great hesitation, for reasons already made known to them. He said he had never spent his time more pleasantly nor more profitably, than while engaged in making the necessary research for this occasion ; that though the result of his investi- gations was necessarily imperfect, yet he hoped he had been successful in some degree. The history of New England tovras is, from the necessity of the case, full of interest. The people, "who settled New England were a peculiar people ; they came here with the fixed and determined purpose, to establish in the wilderness of America these free institutions of ours. They were guided and influenced in all their acts by their spiritual as well as temporal welfare. They were a far sighted people, and in all their purposes had an eye upon the interests of their children. The same people settled Hampstead, and to their enterprise, and intelligence, and piety, did they OAve their prosperity as a town. Mr. S. said there were many other interesting facts connected with the early hiBtory of the town, which could be gathered f)2 together "svitli very little trouble, and suggested the propriety of a more thorough search being made by some one. The early ruins of the town yet remained. They were con- stantly to be met with in walks about the place. Interesting facts could be collected of the aged people of the town, fast passing away to the grave ; and soon every vestige of the early settlement would be lost. What was done must be done quickly. Mr. S. further said, that although he had spent the greater part of the last dozen years away from his native place, and might not again reside there, he had lost none of his love for his native town. It was a small quiet, farming town, and was noted for no picturesque scenery, no striking natural views, and for no extensive business operations. But there was his home ; m its woods he had roved in his childhood ; on its beautiful ponds he had sailed before the cool breezes of summer, and around their shores, participated in the sports of youth ; in yonder school- house he had acquired the rudiments of his education, and in later years had been engaged in the pleasing duty of at- tempting to guide the minds of others in the youthful reachings after knowledge ; in yonder churches he had first listened to the preaching of the word of God. In every part of the town, he recognized some familiar object that bound him to this spot in the strongest ties of affection. As the Highland Chief, when he regained his mountain fastnesses, exclaimed, " My foot is on my native heath, And my name is M'Gregor," so could he, in the same spirit, exclaim, " Where'er I roam, whatever realms to see, My heart untravel'd fondly turns to thee.." He acknowledged the honor his fellow townsmen hf»d done him, in assigning to him the most important part upon this occa- sion. He regretted that reasons before intimated to them, and the inexperience of his youthful years, had not permitted him to make good the place of the gentleman from Boston, who had addressed them a few minutes previous. To the latest hour of his life, he should never cease to remember the kindness of his fellow townsmen towards him, in other instances, besides the present. Mr. S. concluded with offering the following sentiment : The Memory of our Ancestors — May the remembrance of their noble example incite us to keep the reputation of our native town untarnished in our hands. 4tli. By Cafi. Je,sse Atek. Departed Friends — As we love to cherish their memories, may we em- ulate their excellencies. Anthem by tlie Choir. 5th. By Rev. Mr. Bartley. The Aged Ladies and Gentlemen in Hampstead — May they receive the veneration, sympathy and affection of the young, and close their earthly pilgrimage in peace. Anthem, by the Choir. 6th. By Isaac Smith, Esq. The Granite State — She has furnished to the city of Boston many of her most successful merchants. The audience looked to J. S. Clement, Esq., of Boston, to respond to this sentiment. Mr. Emerson, of Boston, went across the stage to Mr. Clement and told him he must speak. Mr. Clement came forward to the desk, and said : When the gentleman from Boston attempted to do anything, he knew it would be impossible to resist him. He seemed de- termined to make him (Mr. C.) speak. And he might as well surrender first, as last, hke the Kentucky coon when he saw Davy Crockett preparing to shoot. But he felt encouraged to speak, by the approving smiles he saw upon the faces of those whom he was attempting to address. (Laughter.) Mr. Clement said he accepted an invitation from his friend, (Mr. Isaac Smith,) to be present, and had not entertained the remotest idea of making a speech ; even a few moments before, during the intermission, he had positively refused. Like his friend from New York, (Mr. Eastman,) he had been engaged all his life in the dry goods business, and if people would hear him talk they must go to Boston and buy goods of him, where he could talk fast enough, as their toAvnsmen, (Messrs. Ordway and Smith,) could testify. Mr. C. said he was not a native of Hampstead, but he was proud to say that he was a native of the Old Granite State, and he felt for his native State all the love and veneration that a son should feel for the land of his nativity. He said that on looking over the to-\vn records the evening previous, he was struck with the neatness and uniformity with which they had been kept. He doubted whether many other towns in the State could exhibit such perfect records ; and town clerks in modern times, with all the increased facihties of better paper and writing utensils, might feel proud tu C4Uiil the neatueso and correctiie.'id of th« records of the first officers of Hampstead. Mr. C. spoke of the pleasure he had had, in being present at this Celebration. To his mind, such social gatherings were in exact accordance 'vsith the spirit of our Republican Institutions. The people of all ages and ranks, of each sex and of every sect and party, could unite, as on that day, in celebrating an event in which all had a common interest. The manner of their cele- bration, was, in his opinion, most appropriate. In no way could the citizens of Hampstead commemorate the simphcity and imj^retending acts of their ancestors, as by the exercises of that day. He congratulated them on the unanimity and harmony that had characterized their celebration, and expressed the hope that they would ahvays be as fortunate in then- public acts. Mr. C. offered as a sentiment : Umon Celebrations — A union of the people and a union of the States. Mr. Emerson facetiously remarked, that there was one union he had neglected to mention, viz : a union of the sexes. Mr. C. replied, that his friend should not be permitted to apply that remark to him, inasmuch as the gentleman himself was given over by the ladies as incorrigible. (Laughter.) 7th. Our Invited Guests from abroad — Our ancestors were alike distinguished for the firmness with which they maintained the cause of Religion, of Education, and of Liberty ;— we welcome their descendants as those who are bound with us in the ties of mutual sympathy and a common cause. Mr. William C. Todd, of Atkinson, N. H., and Preceptor of the Atldnson Academy, rephed nearly as follows : He regretted that his esteemed pastor was not there to ex- press for the many citizens of Atkinson, whom he saw present, the pleasure they all felt in being with the people of Hampstead that day. For himself, he had declined an invitation to^ go elsewhere, for when he heard of their contemplated celebration, he determined no shght obstacle should prevent his atten- dance. He had been too well acquainted with many of the Toung men that had gone out from Hampstead, not to take a deep Interest in the town and whatever relates to its history. With him who had so deeply interested them that day, as he re- ^dewed the events and the changes of the last century, in their midst, he had been long acquainted. In early years they had met as students of Atkinson Academy, and years after, he felt n<> little pleasure in renewing the friendship in ths Halls of 66 Dartmouth College. Ho was well acquainted, too, with him whose name had just been mentioned, and who^vas then tossed about upon the bosom of the deep. Though absent bodily, they all well knew his heart was there, at that moment hovering over the play-grounds of his youth. He hoped that prosperity and complete restoration to health wovdd attend him, in the dis- tant land to which he was bound. "With other young men from this place, Mr. T. had been on terms of intimacy, and had known no one not w'orthy of esteem and confidence. Mr. T. said a celebration of this kind always appeared to liim, peculiarly interesting and profitable. One hundread years ago, this whole vicinity was little better than a wilderness, and now by the blessings of a kind Providence, w'O dwell in a laud, than which, the sun, in his whole course, shines upon none more hap- py. We, that live here, are much blessed. He had spent some years out of New England, but had always returned with a deeper attachment for his native section. We have not the inexhaustible fertility of the West, its vast prairies and boundless forests, nor the " ever during " verdure of the '• bright and sunny South ;" but our agreeable succes- sion of hills and valleys charms the eye in summer ; and if a stranger objects to the deep snows and storms of a New Eng- land whiter, if he will enter our dwellings, the warmth of his welcome, and the comforts around him, will soon teach him to forget that the thermometer without ever sinks to zero. He had visited also our " Father-land," and seen something of the splendor of the mightiest kingdom of Europe. Yet after having gazed on the face of " Her Majesty," he was well con- vinced if one wished to see Queens, he must come to New England on some occasion like the present. There is much, indeed, to charm the mind, in treading the Halls of such a mag- nificent palace as Windsor Castle, where kings have dwelt for nearly a thousand years ; in visiting Universities, whose gray, old walls seem as ancient as the Greek of Homer ; in gazing upon costly Cathedrals, and splendid works of Art, which every where abound in England. We have none such with us. Yet what is of far more importance, we have no such beggary and abject wretchedness, as make the American sick at heart, be- because he sees them there for the first time. Men and women, healthy and willing to labor, yet asking charity, for want of" em- ployment, meet the traveller at every town in some countries of the Old World. They live where the mterest of the few is jealously watched, the rights of the masses little regarded. — They have no Independence there to celebrate, though if they had, they would hardly be able to find a more beautiful grove 9 6(3 to assemble in, nor fairer hands to arrange it with better taste, than has been manifested here to-day. On this occasion, then, when we have met to celebrate the Anniversary of our Independence, to hear due justice done to the memory of deceased citizens of this town, and hsten to the voices of hving sons, who have come back to their native town, let us not forget to be thankful, all, that " the lines have," in- deed, " fallen to us in pleasant places." Mr. Todd concluded by remarking that after what he had said, he could, perhaps, offer no more fitting sentiment than : N'ew England, and the People of JVew England — There is no land better than ours, no people happier than our people. 8th. The Davis Grove — A beautiful spot, endeared to us by the cheer- fulness and pleasure with which its venerable owner has consecrated it to the public, on such occasions as the present. May we never cease to remember the exemplary life he has always led, nor forget his virtues and good deeds, when he shall be gathered to his fathers. Mr. Jesse Davis, a venerable man of more than four score years, came forward and acknowledged the comphment in a brief and effective manner, that touched the hearts of all who heard him. He spoke as follows : Fellow- Citizms, — I am an old man, — probably the oldest native citizen now present. I have a distinct recollection of the scenes of the Revolution, — of the trials and sacrifices made by the Patriots of Hampstead. Little did I think at the time what glorious results would follow. It was surely befitting this occasion, to commence with prayer to Almighty God, and Thanksgivuig to His name for His great goodness to our land. I have but httle time to remain here. But I shall leave my best wishes and sincerest prayers for the temporal and spiritual prosperity of those who shall survive, and who shall come after me. Hev. Mr. Bartley spoke of the duties and responsibilities of the rising generation, and offered as a sentiment : The Youth and Children in Hampsfead— May Heavenly wisdom be their guide, in whose right hand is length of days, and in whose left hand are riches and honor. Hymn by the Juvenile Choir. 9th. Sentiment by Dea. Joshua Eastman, complimeutary to the mihtary command under Capt. Stickney. 67 . Many other sentiments were offered and remarks made by other gentlemen present, but, unfortunately no record was made of them at the time, and it has become impossible to recall them. For the same reason, the preceding account is necessarily incom- plete. At different intervals the exercises were varied by music from the Band, or Songs from the Choir. At five o'clock the President announced that the exercises were nearly ended, and would close with a sentiment complimen- tary to the ladies. 10th. Mr. I. W. Smith said he had been requested to make some pubhc acknowledgement in behalf of the Gentlemen, to the Ladies, for the beautiful, but modest manner in which they had decorated the Grove ; for the good taste they had displayed in all their arrangements, and for the interest they had taken in the celebration. He said he cheerfully complied with the request and could not pay them a better comphment than to announce a sentiment sent in by a gentleman from a neighboring State, who married a Hampstead girl, but was unable to be present himself, and had sent his wife. The Ladies of Hampstead — If correctly represented abroad, they make most exemplary wives, and deserve to receive, every one, a husband. The meeting then adjourned, amid the utmost satisfaction and good feelmg. The day was as pleasant and comfortable as the most eager could desire. Every arrangement was carried out to the satisfaction of all ; nothing happening durmg the day to mar the enjoyment of any one. The number present was variously estimated from ten to fifteen hundred ; it did not probably much exceed twelve hun- dred. The population of the town is about nine hmidred. Al- lowing six hundi-ed of its mhabitants to be present, the remain- ing six hundred were composed of strangers from abroad, most of whom were natives of the town, or had formerly resided witliin its limits. It was announced by the Chairman of the Committee of Ar- rangements, that it might be of interest to some to learn, that one of the roses sent in by Mr. Amasa Eastman to be placed upon the Speaker's desk, grew upon a bush, in his yard, over one hmidred years old. Probably on no occasion, were so many of the natives of Hampstead ever before assembled. The opportunity was em- braced to renew old acquaintances and form new ones. Not only was it the source of profit and gratification, to those present, but every one went away with an increased love for the town of his nativity, or adoption. 68 Old fiiends and acquaintances were again brought together, face to face, to recoimt th?. scenes enacted in " days of auld lang syne." The sports of childhood, the happy hours passed in the district school house and on the village play-ground, the plans of youth, the fate of companions of former days, the un- timely death of intimate friends, — formed the theme of many a conversation ; the silent tear, upon the cheek marked with the traces of care and affliction, betrayed the emotions of the heart ; or the pleasant smile and laughing eye, revealed a hfe of pleasure and of joy, — where the hand of time had passed lightly over the dearest objects of the affections. The mind run rapidly back through the last century and re- viewed the changes that had taken place in the town. The events of the past came up in successive array before the minds of the assemblage, and the acts and motives of the men who preceded them, were quickly scanned. And then the imagina- tion looked forward into the future ; the wondrous changes yearly effected in governments, science and commerce, imposed no limits to it3 range. What would be the condition of our native town in 1949, none dared predict. All indulged the hope that its citizens, in every act, would study the example of its first settlers, and that the present generation would so discharge its duties, that in after years om* children's children might point to our lives and our example, and say that their fathers did not live for themselves alone, that they did not exist for the moment, but looked forward to the future. The next Centennial Celebration will find all of that assem- blage quietly sleeping in their graves. One by one, as tJieir an- cestors went down to the grave, will they leave these places, and long before the next one hundred years shall have passed by, the last one will be gathered to his fathers. A LIST OF THE TOWN OFFICERS OF HAMPSTEAD, SINCE ITS INCORPORATION. TAKEN FROM THE TOWN RECORDS. The first meeting was held February 7th, 1749. There Is no record of any annual meetmg in March 1749, and as the records are otherwise full and complete, it is to be inferred that there was none held, but that the officers chosen Feb'y 7th, at the organization of the town government under the Charter, held their offices till the annual meeting in March, 1750. MODERATORS. In the following hst, the names of those persons who acted as Moderators at the annual to^^^l meetings, are placed in italics. In twelve instances the names of the Moderators elected were not recorded. It will be seen that two hundred and fifty-tAvo meetings have been held since the town was incorporated. The figures, appended to the follo\\lng names, denote the number of times that each individual has acted as Moderator. The order of the priority of their election has been observed, though it will readily occur to every one, that, in hardly any instance, were their respective elections efiected at successive meetings. Daniel Little, • - 7 John 3Iuzzey, 8 John Johnson, - 1 Joseph French, - 2 JRichard JTazzen, ■ - 4 Benjamin Emersoyi, - - 5 Ehcnezer Gile, • 8 Jonathan Carlton, - - 8 Moses Hale, - - 1 Samuel Little, - 12 Peter Morse, - 3 John Atwood, - 1 John Webster, - . 9 Edmimd Mooei-s, - - 7 Jacob Bayley, 2 John Calfe, 55 '0 William Modton, - - 1 Moses Little, - - 3 John Bond, - - - 1 William Marshall, • - 4 John Hogg, - - 2 Thomas Muzzey, - - 1 Timothy Goodwin, - - 1 David Mo niton, - - 15 John True, - - 6 Jabez Hoit, ... 2 Jacob Kimball, • ■> 25 John Emerson, • -1 Jt'is^ Gordon, - • 5 Tappan Eastman, - - 4 Samuel Marshall, - - 1 Moses Hoyt, - - 20 A. B. Marshall, - - 1 Isaiah P. Moody, - - 1 Lorenzo Batehelder, • - 4 Isaac Smith, - - 1 Josiah C. Eastman, - - 7 Amos Buck, - - - 3 Enos Colby, - • 1 Isaac W. Smith, - - 2 TOWN CLERKS. Peter Eastman, - Benjamin Little, jr., Peter Eastman, Jonathan Eastman, Eliphalet Poor,* John True, ,t - John True, James Knight, John True, James Knight, Nathaniel Little, Isaac Smith, Warren L. Lane, A. B. Marshall, Amos M. Merrill, Benj. A. Moody, A. B. Marshall, Henry Putnam, Nathaniel C. Smith, from 1749 " 1766 - " 1768 1776 1780 1786 1798 1799 1806 1807 1809 1811 - " 1825 - " 1832 1835 1839 1841 1842 1846 1849 to 1766 " 1768 " 1776 " 1780 " 1786 " 1798 " 1799 " 1806 " 1807 " 1809 1811 1825 1832 1835 1839 1841 1842 1846 1849 SELECTMEN. 1749. John Johnson, Peter Morse, George Little, Jacob Bayley, Stephen Johnson, jr. 1750. John Johnson, John Webster, Benj. Emerson, James Graves, John Muzzey. 1751. Peter Morse, Daniel Little, John Hunkins. '^ Resigned in April 1786, and Joha True chosen hia successor. X No rtsord of any being cboseD. 71 1752. Moses Hale, Ricliard Hazzen, John Johnson. 1753. Stephen Emerson, Benj. Philbrick, Nath'l Heath. 1754. Moses Copps, Samuel Hadlej, Jeremiah Eaton. 1755. Benj. Emerson, John Muzzej, John Mooers. 1756. George Little, James Graves, Jacob Bayley. 1757. John Muzzej, Daniel Little, Benj. Kimball. 1758. Edmmid SaAvjer, John Muzzej, John Hazzen. 1759. Edmmid Morse, John Johnson, John Muzzej. 1760. Peter Eastman, WiUiam Marshall, John Johnson. 1761. Jacob Bajlej, John Muzzej,* Benj. Emerson. 1762. Jacob Bajlej, John AYebster, John Muzzej. 1763. Joseph French, Reuben Harriman, John Muzzej. 1764. John Muzzej, Joseph French, Reuben Harriman. 1765. John Muzzej, Joseph French, Reuben Harriman. 1766. John Webster, Joseph French, Samuel Currier. 1767. John Webster, Joseph French, Reuben Harriman. 1768. Benj. Little, Samuel Little, John Muzzej. 1769. John Calfe, Reuben Harriman, Joseph French, jr. 1770. Peter Eastman, Joseph French, jr., John Calfe. 1771. Benj. Little, Thos. Wadlej, Ephraim Webster. 1772. Benj. Little, Ephraim Webster, Thomas Wadlej. 1773. Thomas Wadlej, John Calfe, Bartholomew Heath. 1774. John Calfe, Thos. Wadlej, Samuel Little. 1775. William Moulton, John Atwood, John Calfe. 1776. Samuel Little, Thos. Wadlej, John Atwood. 1777. Jona. Eastman, Edmund Mooers, Abner Little. 1778. Samuel Little, Abner Little, John Harriman. 1779. Edmund Mooers, Ehphalet Poor, Abner Rogers. 1780. John Calfe, Timothj Goodwin, Abner Rogers. 1781. Jolm Calfe, Job Kent, Moses Little. 1782. John Calfe, Timothj Goodwin, James Huse. 1783. Timothj Goodwin, Abner Rogers, Robert Emerson. 1784. Jesse Johnson,! Eliphalet Poor,! John Harrmian, Job Kent, J Moses Little. J 1785. Jesse Johnson, John Bond, Benj. Emerson, jr. 1786. John Calfe, Edmund Mooers, David Moulton. 1787. John Calfe, David Moulton, John Harriman. 1788. John Calfe, David Moulton, John Harriman. 1789. Wm. Marshall, John True, James Huse. 1790. Joseph French, David Poor, Edmund Mooers. 1791. Wm. Marshall, Thomas Muzzev, John True. 1792. Wm. Marshall, Dudlej Kimball, Jona. Little. 1793. Dudlej Kimball, John Time, Jona. Little. ♦ Declined. Wait Stevens chosen in April. t Resigned and excused. t In place of first two. 1704. "^Vni. Marshall, Moses Little, Thos. yhizzey, 1795. JolmHo^ti;g, Ebenezer Hoyt, Micajali little. 1706. John Calfe, John True, Moses AVilliams. 1707. John Calfc, John True, ISIoses WilHams. 1798. John True, James Atwood, Jona. Little. 1799. David Moulton, John True, Jona. Eastman. 1800. David Moulton, John True, Jonathan Eastman, 1801. John True, Jona. Little, Jona. C. Little. 1802. John True, Jona. Little, Joseph Welch. 1803. John True, Da\id Moulton, James Briekett. 1804. David Moulton, Jona. C. Little, Samuel Morse. 1805. John True, Thomas Muzzej, David Moulton. 1806. Samuel Morse, Nath'l Little, Jacob Kimball. 1807. John True, James Knight, Jona. E. Wadley. 1808. Jona. E. Wadley, Jabez Hoit, jr., Nath'l Little. 1809. Nath'l Little, Samuel Morse, Jacob Kimball. 1810. Samuel Morse, Joshua Sawyer, Joseph Briekett. 1811. Jona. Little, Joshua Sawyer, Hezekiah Ayer. 1812. Joshua Sawyer, Joseph Briekett, Samuel Morse. 1813. Nathaniel Little, Jona. C. Little, Jona. Little. 1814. Nath'l Little, James Knight, Stephen Webster. 1815. Nath'l Little, John Emerson, jr., John True. 1816. Nath'l Little, jr., John Emerson, jr., James Calef. 1817. Nath'l Little, jr., James Knight, Caleb H. Moulton. 1818. Nath'l Little, jr., James Knight, Edward Noyes. 1819. Nath'l Little, jr., John Heath, Jesse Gordon. 1820. Nath'l Little, jr., Caleb Harriman, Samuel Marshall. 1821. Nath'l Little, jr., Samuel Smith, Jesse Gordon. 1822. Nath'l Little, jr., Jesse Gordon, Joshua Eastman, jr.,* Lorenzo Batchelder.f 1823. Jesse Gordon, Sam'l Marshall, Lorenzo Batchelder. 1824. Nath'l Little, jr., Jesse Gordon, Sam'l Marshall. 1825. Jesse Gordon, Moses Hoyt, Benj. B. Garland. 1826. Nath'l Little, jr., Moses 'Hoyt, Benj. B. Garland. 1827. Jesse Gordon, Moses Hoyt, John Ordway, jr. 1828. Moses Hoyt, John Ordway, jr., Humphrey C. Cogs- well. 1829. Moses Hoyt, Jesse Gordon, James Gibson. 1830. Lorenzo Batchelder, James Gibson, True W. Taylor. 1831. John Ordway, jr., Joshua Eastman, jr., Stephen Little. 1832. Samuel Morse, Andrew B. Marshall, Joseph P. Shan- non. 1833. Moses Hoyt, A. B. Marshall, Joseph P. Shannon. * Resigned. t Eleeted April Ptti in plat* of J. E,,jr. ^ 78 1834. M0SC8 Iloyt, A. B. Marshall, Isaac Heath. 1835. Joseph P. Shannon, Isaac Heath, James Hadlej. 1836. Joseph P. Shannon, John Ordwaj, James Hadlej. 1837. Joseph P. Shannon, Moses Hoyt, Samuel NicholB. 1838. Warren L. Lane, Isaac Heath, Amos Buck. 1839. Amos Buck, Moses Hovt, A. B. Marshall. 1840. Moses Hoyt, A. B. Marshall, Isaac Heath. 1841. Amos Buck, Joseph P. Shannon, Jonathan Williams. 1842. Amos Buck, Jonathan Williams, James Smith. 1843. Enos Colbj, Caleb Moulton, Richard K. Brickett, 1844. Isaac Smith, A. B. Marshall, Joseph P. Shannon. 1845. Amos Buck, Joseph P. Shannon, A. B, Marshall. 184(3. Moses Hoyt, Isaac Smith, Amos Ring. 1847. Moses Hoyt, Isaac Smith, Caleb Moulton. 1848. Caleb Moulton, Isaac Heath, Joseph P. Shannon, 1849. Amos Buck, Samuel Morse, James Smith, MEMBERS OF THE rROYIXCIAL CONGRSSS, Which assembled in 1775, at Exeter, and afterwards either at Exeter, Portsmouth or Concord : Samuel Little, April 1775. Jonathan Carlton, May 1775. John Calfe, December, 1775. Samuel Little, December, 1776. John Calfe, from December, 1777, to December, 1784. The records of the town do not show that any one was elect- ed after December 1783. A limited search among the records in the office of the Secretary of State did not give any additional information. If the compiler had had sufficient time, it is pro- bable that a more thorough search would have enabled hun to complete the above list. The Provincial Congress held fivo sessions in 1777 and 1778, four in 1779, and two in 1780, 1781 and 1782. Hon. John Calfe was Delegate from Hampstead, to the Convention to ratify the Constitution of the United States, held at Exeter on the second Wednesday of February 1788. He was also Secretary of the Convention to amend the Con* 4stitution of New Hampshire in 1792. REPRESENTATIVES UNDER THE CONSTITUTION. Voted not to send - - - from 1787* to 1792. * Learo wai granted, by tb« Ceneral Court, to Hampstvad to vend « ReprMantatir* ta •2787. 10 74 William MarshaU, - ^ - from 1792 to 1793 John Hogg, .... John Tnie, . . - - Da^'id Moulton, .... John True, .... Jacob Kimball, .... Thomas Muzzej, John True, . . . . Jonathan Little, ... Isaac Noyes, .... Jonathan Little, ... Isaac Noyes, . * . . John True, .... Jacob Kimball, .... Jonathan Little, . - - - John True, . . * . Jacob Kimball, James Knight, Jesse Gordon, James Knight, Jesse Gordon, Jesse Gordon, Samuel Marshall, Jesse Gordon, Moses Hoyt, Lorenzo Batchelder, • Moses Hoyt, .... A. B. Marshall, . - . - Warren L. Lane, ... Lorenzo Batchelder, ... Joseph P. Shannon, Isaac Heath, ... John Ordway, .... Josiah C. Eastman, COIVrMTTTEES OF INSPECTION, Chosen during the War of the Revolution. Dec. 1774. John Webster, Samuel Little, Joseph French, John Calfe, Benjamin Little. March 1776. Samuel Little, Wilham Moulton, Edmund Morse, Benjamin Little, William George. March 1777. Joseph French, Jacob Currier. a 1793 a 1795 (( 1795 a 1802 a 1802 a 1803 (( 1803 a 1804 (( 1804 (( 1806 (c 1806 u 1807 a 1807 u 1809 a 1809 a 1810 ^i 1810 a 1811 u 1811 n 1812 li 1812 a 1813 li 1813 a 1814 ii 1814 li 1815 u 18L5 a 1816 <( 1816 a 1817 (( 1817 u 1819 u 1819 a 1820 a 1820 a 1821 (( 1821 u 1823 a 1823 a 1824 a 1824 ii 1825 a 1825 a 1826 ^i 1826 a 1827 u 1827 u 1828 a 1828 a 1829 a 1829 a 1831 i( 1831 li 1832 a 1832 a 1835 a 1835 li 1836 a 1836 (( 1839 u 1839 li 1841 a 1841 li 1842 a 1842 11 1844 a 1844 ii 1846 a 1846 li 1847 u 1847 li 75 June 1777. Joseph French, Thomas Wadley, Benjamin Lit- tle, Benjamin Emerson, jr., Jacob Currier. March 1778. Samuel Little, Joseph French, Benjamin Emer- son, jr. COMMITTEES. " Committee to regulate trade," chosen in pursuance of the recommendation of the Legislature. June 1777. Hezekiah Hutchins, Bartholomew Heath, Timo- thy Goodwin, "William Moulton, Jesse Jolmson. Committee to provide for the families of soldiers from Hamp- stead in the annj : February, 1778. Thomas Wadlev, Benjamin Emerson, jr., Edmund Mooers. June 1778. Samuel Little, Abner Little, John Harriman. Committee to enlist soldiers. March 1778. Samuel Little, Abner Little John Harriman. June 1779. Edmund Mooers, Eliphalet Poor, Abner Rogers. July 1779. Hezekiah Hutchms, Moses Little. June 1780. Bartholomew Heath, Timothy Goodwin, Abner Little. February 1781. John Calfe, Job Kent, Moses Little. March 1781. John Calfe, Timothy Goodwin, Jantes Huse. " Committee for regulating the prices of sundry articles of trade and manufacture, and the produce of husbandry, &;c." raised in accordance with a recommendation from the town of Portsmouth. July 1779. Edmund Mooers, John Calfe, Wm. Moulton. SUPERINTENDING SCHOOL COMMITTEE.* 1801. John Kellj, John Calfe, True KimbaU. 1802. John Calfe, True Kimball, John True. 1803. John Kelly, True Kimball, John Calfe. 1809 to 1815. True KimbaU, John Kelly, John True. 1815. Nathaniel Little, John Emerson, jr., John True. 1816. John Kelly, True Kimball, James Knight. 1817. John Kelly, Jeremiah Spofford, James Knight. 1818 to 1821. John Kelly, Isaac Tewksbury, jr., John True. 1821. Nathaniel Little, Samuel Smith, Jesse Gordon. 1822. John Kelly, James Knight, John True, Isaac Tewks- bury. •The record of ihe School Coramittrea is veo' Inccmplcte. The above are all the names the records contain. 7G 1828. John Kellj, John True, Samuel Marshall. 1824. John Kelly, Isaac Tewksbury, James Knight. 1825. John Kelly, Samuel Morse, Isaac Tewksburj. 1826. John Kelly, Samuel Marshall, Jesse Gordon. 1827. John Kelly, James Calef, Isaac Tewksbury. 1839. John M. C. Bartley, B. B. Bunker, Josiah C. Eastman. 1842 to 1844. J. M. C. Bartley, Isaac Smith, Josiah C. Eastman. 1844. J. M. C. Bartley, Isaac Tewksbury, A. B. Marshall. 1845. J. M. C. Bartley, James Calef, Benj. B. Garland. 1846. J. M. C. Bartley, A. B. Marshall, Caleb Moulton. 1847. J. M. C. Bartley, A. B. Marshall, James Calef. 1848. J. M. C. Bartley, Josiah C. Eastman, A. B. Marshall. 1849. J. M. C. Bartley, Isaac Smith, Arthur AY. Marshall. RELIGIOrS. It is not known when the Congregational Society, (the only one in town that maintains regular preaching,) was formed ; probably soon after the first settlement of the town. In thd warrant for the first town meeting in 1749, articles were insert- ed for taking action upon the subject of repairing the Neto Meeting House, and for securing a minister. The Congregational Church was organized June 8d, 1752. The Articles of Faith adopted by the Church at that time, and the Coyenant, are substantially the same as those adopted bj Congregational Churches generally. They were drawn from what is called the Cambridge Platform. Their present house of worship was built in 1837, at an ex- pense of about three thousand dollars. The Church when first formed contained sLxty-eight members. The present number of commimicants is ninety-fiye ; males, thirty-five ; females, fifty-eight. The Pastors of the Church have been as follows : Rev. Hexry True, Ordained June 24th, 1752. Died May 22d, 1782. Rev. John Kelly, Ordained December 5th, 1792. Dis- missed October 12th, 1836. Rev. John M. C. Bartley, Installed October 12th, 1836. The names of those who have filled the office of Deacon, are found in the hst of prominent men, on p. 35 of the address. The present officers of the Church are as follows : Rev. J. M. C. Bartley, Pastor, Installed Oct. 12th, 1836. Jonathan Kent, Beacon, Elected December 23d, 1824. JosmJA Eastman, " " November 24th, 1848. Other denumiuations in to^YIl have preaching occasionally, in the old meeting house, ])ut no other denomination is mimerouH enough to support preaching every Sabbath. Rev. Bexjamin B. Bunker was ordained over the Society of the Universalists, in 1838. He preaclied to them for two years, and then removed to New Market. Since that time they have had preaching only occasionally. All denominations gen- erally attend Rev. ]\Ir. Bartley's meeting. PROFESSIONAL. Rev. Mr. Kelly, in his " Sketch of ITampstead," says " the town has never sustained a lawyer." Isaiah P. Moody, Esq., of York, Maine, resided in the tomi a few years since, and was esteemed very highly. But becoming wearied with the prac- tice of the law, retired to his native town to engage in the more honorable and profitable vocation of farming. The Ph} sicians who have resided in this place are John Bond, his son John Bond jr., Samuel Flagg, Joshua Sawyer, James Knight, Jeremiah Spofford, Isaac Tewksbmy, Jerome Harris, M. D., and Josiah C. Eastman, M. D. " None of these were favored with a liberal education. Two or three others have had a transient residence here, but they are all," either dead or removed from the place, except Drs. Knight and Eastman. The latter is the practicing physician, resident in town. Dr. Knight has long been out of practice, and, though more than four score years old, 3'et retains in a remarkable degree, the strength and vigor of manhood. " Dr. Bond, senior, was an early member of the N. H. Med- ical Society, and was a very respectable and devout man ; and though feeble in health for many j^ears, he lived to be eighty-six years old, and died January 4th, 1804, in a happy frame of mind." Of those who were born, or brought uj) in this town, the fol- lowing have received a liberal education : AT IIAKVARD COLLEGE. James True, son of Rev. Henry True ; graduated in 1780. He occasionally preached. Died in 1795, aged 35 years. EzEKiEL Little ; graduated in 1784. He was for 20 years a teacher in Boston. He was the author of an Arithmetic. Died in Atkinson 183-, aged about 80 years. Jabez Kimball : graduated in 1797. lie was one year a tutor : studied Law, and practised at Haverhill, Mass. Died tliere March 19th, 1805, agc^d 3-3. n 78 Abner Rogers ; graduated in 1800. Attorney at Law in (Jharlestown, Mass. Died in February, 1814, aged 37. Robert Rogers ; graduated in 1802. For a long time a Merchant in France. In 1835 he was a resident in Boston. Edmund Tucker Eastman ; graduated in 1846. Student . of Medicine in Boston, Mass. AT DARTMOUTH COLLEGE. Henry True, son of Rev. Henry True ; graduated In 1796. For many years a Minister of the Gospel in Union, Maine, where he still resides. Benjamin Dudley Emerson, son of Col. Benjamin Emer- son ; graduated in 1805. For many years teacher in New- buryport, and Boston. He is the author of the National Spel- ling Book and of Emerson's Reading Books. He resides now in Roxbury, Mass. Abner Emerson, brother of the preceding ; gi-aduated In 1805. Died at Charlestown, Mass., December 1836, aged 51. Thomas Williams ; graduated in 1815. Physician at Can- andaigua, N. Y. Received also the degree of M. D. at Dart- mouth College. Henry True Kelly, son of Rev. John Kelly ; graduated in 1819. Minister at Madison, Geauga County, Ohio. Died at , in Canada, In 1843, aged about 40 years. Jonathan Knight Little ; graduated in 1823. Student of Medicine, and died young. Arthur Ward Marshall ; graduated In 1846. Teacher ^t Valparaiso, Chih, S. A. Isaac Willlam Smith ; graduated in 1846. Student at Law, ii; Manchester, N. H. AT WILLIAMS COLLEGE. John Kelly, son of Rev. John Kelly ; graduated in 1825. Studied Medicine at the Medical College, in Fairfield, N. Y, Besides In Fultomille, N. Y. AT union COLLEGE. Francis Welch ; graduated in 1832. Ordamed a Minister at Brentwood, N. H., in December, 1833. Resides near East- port, Me. AT BROWN university. Joseph Smith ; gradu^ated In 1837. Ordamed at Woon- socket, R. I., September 27th, 1837, and continued there four years. Settled over the Baptist Church in Newport, R. I., near- ly nine years. Resides at present In Woonsocket, R. I. at college of new JERSEY. Elbridge Gerry Little ; graduated in 1845. Ordahied a ^linibter over the Church in Manayunk, Pa., in 1848. 19 Jesse Brooks Davis; graduated m 1846. Ordained a Minister over the Church in Plattsburg, N.^SSC, in Nov. 1849. DISTEICT SCHOOLS. The number of Districts is seven. The amount of money appropriated in 1849, vras $492,33. The whole number of scholars attending was 203. The number of scholars in each district and the amount of money expended in each is as fol- lows : No. ?f Dist. JVo. of /Scholars. Ami. of 3Ioney Expended. 1 23 $84,28 2 53 113,32 3 40 59,53 4 38 91,02 6 20 41,98 6 12 47,65 7 22 54,55 203 $492,33 A Superintending School Committee, appointed annually, examine all the teachers, visit all the schools twice each term, and make a report at the annual meeting in March. MORTALITY. For the first eighteen years there is no record of deaths. For the next six years only a few are recorded. The full record commences in 1752. It was kept by Rev. Henry True, and was continued by his son John True, Esq., and by Rev. John Kelly to the close of the year 1846, and since then by Rev. J. M. C. Bartley. The whole number of deaths recorded, from 1746 to Jan'y 1, 1849, is 1128. The greatest number of deaths was in 1756 and amounted to 30. In 1758, only 8 died : in in 1786, 1805 and 1807, only 5 each year, died ; in 1761, 4 died ; in 1746, 1751 and 1783, only one died each year. The annual average number of deaths is 11 ; the proportion to the population is one in 81 annually. " The first person buried in the Centre Burial Place, was Mr. Hadley, drowned in the Island Pond." List of aged people who have lived and died in Hampstead, having arrived at the age of 90 years and upwards. Mr. Stephen Johnson, - - • - died in 1769 aged 91 Widow Davis, ...-<< 1770 " 94 Widow Sarah Emerson, - - " 1770 " 90 Capt. Jona. Carlton, - - - " 1794 " 94 80 i)ea. Joseph iVencli, John Hogg, Esq., Widow of John Hogg, Esq. Widow Eleanor Copps, Mr. Samuel Johnson, Widow Mary Carlton, Widow Hannah Brown, - Widow Hannah Eastman, Widow Martha Webster, Mr. Samuel Kelly, Mr. John Atwood, Widow of Joshua Knight, Mr. Edmund Morse, - Widow Knight, Widow Quimbj, Widow Judith French, Capt. Wm. Marshall, - Widow Dorothy Cotton, - Miss Sarah Doller, Widow Sarah George, Widow of Joseph Webster, Dea. Job Kent, Widow Anne Knight, - .Daniel Little, Esq., - died in 1794 aged 93 a 1795 iL 91 li 1796 ii 92 li 1801 ii 92 a 1801 U 90 (( 1803 U 90 u 1804 a 90 a 1806 u 91 li 1809 (( 97 a 1810 a 92