Qass. Book. £ '14-. 6 \ 04- ? THE History of Wilbraham MASSACHUSETTS Prepared in Connection with the Celebration of the One Hundred and Fiftieth Anniversary 0/ the Incorporation of the Town JUNE 15, 1913 By CHAUNCEY E. PECK F 1^ .V? -fa 6 1 1 1 ^" ^ 7 . rr PREFACE The fact that the one hundred and fiftieth anniversary of the incorporation of Wilbraham was approaching, was brought to the attention of the town at the annual meeting held in 1911, by the following article in the warrant: Art. 17. "To see if the town will take any action in regard to the celebration of its one hundred and fiftieth anniversary in 1913." Under this article the following votes were passed. "Voted that the town celebrate the One Hundred and Fiftieth Anniversary of the Incorporation of the Town." "Voted that a committee of five be chosen to make all arrangements for the celebration, with power to act, and that they report at the next annual meeting the result of the progress made." The following committee was chosen: Chauncey E. Peck, chairman Charles C. Beebe, Ethelbert Bliss, Benj. F. Greene, Miss Evanore O. Beebe. At a meeting of the Historical Committee, held soon after- wards, Chauncey E. Peck was chosen historian, and Miss Evanore O. Beebe secretary. At the annual town meeting in 1912, a report of the progress made was given by the chairman, and the town voted to instruct the committee to publish an illustrated history of the town. Many meetings were held by the Historical Committee, and many sub-committees were appointed to arrange different details of the program for the celebration. All of which were carried out in a manner creditable to those who had arranged them, as will appear from reading the newspaper accounts of the celebration. The actual day of the signing of the Act of Incorporation was on June 15th, but as that day came on Sunday in 1913, it was decided to begin the three days' celebration on Tuesday, June 17th. The first day's exercises, including the Historical Address, to be held at the centre village, the second day at iv Preface North Wilbraham, to include the dedication of the PubHc Library, and the third day at Glendale, with the unveiHng of the Soldiers' Boulder there. All of the exercises were largely attended and were a complete success in every way The spacious audience room in the M. E. Church was well filled on June 17th, and the exercises occupied a little more than two hours, including singing by the school children of three selec- tions, among which was "The Elegy of the Mountains," begin- ning — "On Springfield mountains there did dwell A likely youth who was knowne full well." This was "lined off" according to the old style, by Harold Bolles, and sung to the tune of "Old Hundred." The Vital Records of Wilbraham — Births, Marriages and Deaths — will soon be printed in a separate volume, and so, none of the genealogies of families are included here. I have just learned that there is a tin box in the town safe, sealed up and marked, "Not to be opened until June 15th, 1963." I mention it here, so that the future historian may know of its existence. In the preparation of this historical account of the different events which have happened here, and of the work wrought by our ancestors in the days long past, as well as that which has been accomplished in recent years, I have endeavored to relate the incidents in the order in which they occurred. And, so far as practicable, to complete each account before beginning another. The great amount of time consumed in looking up facts contained in the records of the town, the parishes and the churches, as well as records outside of the town, will account for the time which has passed since the address was delivered. Only about one-tenth of the "History," as here printed, was delivered in the address. I place my more than two years' work in your hands, trusting it ma}^ meet with your approbation. CHAUNCEY E. PECK. Wilbraham, October 1 , 1914. TABLE OF CONTENTS Pages 1 to 24 Introduction. Emigration from England. Journey to Con- necticut River. Deed of Part of Outward Commons, Allotment of, Measuring Width of. Roger Newbtiry's Survey. Indians. Pages 24 to 44 First Settlers in Wilbraham. "Clark" Warner Record. First Deaths and Burials. School in Outward Commons. Peggy's Dipping Hole. The Way to Zion by Way of Springfield. Population of, 1741. First Precinct Meeting. Deed of Over- plus Land to Minister, Fixing His Salary, Ordination of. Pages 46 to 67 First Page of Minister's Record. Location of Meetinghouse. Building Minister's House. The Parson's Rose. Materials for Meetinghouse, First Use of, First Baptism in. First Action to be Set Off as a Town. Meetinghouse Lane. Pages 68 to 77 Seating of Meetinghouse Recorded 1760. Ministry and School Lots. Trouble in the Church, 1754. First Schoolhouse. "Master" Ezra Barker. Road Laid from Goose Pond to Outward Commons. "World's End Brook." Kilborn's Bridge. Ensign Abel Bliss, House of, Indian Boy at. Pages 78 to 100 First Settlers in South Part. Lieut. Thomas Merrick. Timothy Mirrick, Bitten by Rattlesnake, Ode on. House of, Epitaph, Place of Burial. Soldiers in French War. Journal of "Clark" Samuel Warner. Second and Third Attempts to be Set Off as a Town. Act of Incorporation. Origin of Name. "Wil-bra-ham, not A-bra-ham." Population of. School Districts. Pages 101 to 116 Singing in Church. Mr. Merrick's Salary, His Health Fail- ing, Death of. His Account Book, Ancestry of. Mrs. Abigail Merrick. No Settled Minister in North Parish For Eleven Years. Preaching in the South Part Refused. South Parish Set Off. Will of Dea. Nathaniel Warriner. Valuation of Wilbraham in 1771. Pages 117 to 142 The Revolutionary War, Cause of. Appeal from Merchants of Boston. Non-consumption Report. Tories in Town. "Minute Men." Lexington Alarm. Depreciated Money. Council Refuses to Ordain Samuel Ely as a Minister. The vi Table of Contents Shays' Rebellion. Anecdote about Deacon Warriner House. Journal of Dr. Samuel F. Merrick. Soldiers in Revolutionary War. Pages 142 to 160 The Green, Petition to vSet Off. Library. The Old Hoe — an Epigram. Copy From Papers of John Bliss, Esq. First Church History from 1794. Moving Meetinghouse to Present Location. Meeting of Parish Called to Meet in Methodist Meetinghouse. Sermon of Rev. Joseph Lathrop, D.D. Church Bell Purchased. Fencing Burying Yards. Pages 160 to 182 "Minister Money." Record from Supreme Court. Parish Loan. Seating of the Meetinghouse, Twenty-seven Children Baptised at One Service. Nine Mile Pond Tragedy, Odes on, Epitaphs of Those Drowned. Lease of Pond by The Town. Bungalows Erected. Pages 182 to 200 The Marcus Lyon Murder, Account Published in Massa- chusetts Spy of Worcester, Execution of Murderers. First Methodist Society, Charles Brewer, Lease of Land, One Pepper Corn. Bishop Asbury. New England Methodist Conference, Petition for Incorporation, Objections to. Camp Meeting, First Legal Meeting of Society, Bequest of Moses K. Bartlett, Sale of the Old House, Slips Owned by Individuals, One of Them Attached to Pay a Debt. Poem on Old Church. Pages 201 to 212 Baptist Church at Colton Hollow, Gathering of. Council to Establish, Hear a Complaint, Church Covenant Signed by, Ministers Who Belong to or Attend the Masonic Lodge. Complaint of Oliver Bliss Against Bro. Asa Beebe. Other Complaints. Move to South Wilbraham. Petitions for Incorporation of Other Societies. Pages 212 to 232 Militia, Training Day. Railroads, First Railroad Station, Moved to Oak Street. First Station at North Wilbraham. Wilbraham Aqueduct Company. Wilbraham Academy, Catalogue for 1836, Location of. Town Loan and Surplus Revenue. Pages 233 to 260 Millerite Excitement. Doctor Bottom Sees Woman up in Tree. Sermon Preached on "The False Alarm." The Civil War. Troubles in Kansas, Wilbraham Man There, Men Furnished, Money For, Return of the Standards, Personal Table of Contents vii Experiences in, Men in, Men Drafted. Soldiers' Monument, Donor of. Crane Park. Pages 261 to 276 The Great Washout on B. & A. R. R. in 1869. Business of the Town in 1837. Woolen Mill at South Wilbraham, on Eleven Mile Brook. The Collins Mfg. Co. The Cutler Co. Ludlow Mfg. Co. Tobacco. Cheese Factories. Sheep. Peach Industry. Increase in Valuation of Town in Thirty Years. Items from Massachusetts Register 1814. Items from "Clark" Warner record. Almanac for 1748. Pages 277 to 284 First Baptist Church, Society Constituted, Ordination of Rev. Seth Clark, Society "Lost its Visibility," Meetinghouse Burned, Location of. The Glendale Methodist Episcopal Church, Methodist Class Formed, Origin of Name, Meeting- house Erected, Incorporation. Grace tJnion Church at North Wilbraham, Meetings in Liberty Hall, Society Incorporated. The Christian Union Church. Church of Saint Cecilia. Pages 285 to 308 The Public Schools, Appropriations From Springfield, First Schoolhouse, Teachers Boarding Around, Private, Districts, Drawing, Singing, Flags, Table of Expenses, Graduating Exercises 1912. List of Representatives. Town Clerks. Physicians. Division of the Town. Memorial Town Hall. Electric Railway. Telephone. California Adventurers. Cap- tain Kidd's Gold. Good Templars. Free Masons. Grange. Farmers Club. Literary Society. Dell Cemetery. Pages 309 to 340 Slaver}'. Warner Record. Fragments. Warner Papers, His "Dream." Toll Gate. Wilbraham Turnpike. Strange Accident. Disposal of Poor. Kibbe's Shirt. Presbyterian Saddle. Scenery of Wilbraham. Celebration, Newspaper Accounts of. The Parade, Dinner, Speeches of Guests, Singing, Address. Pages 341 to 360 Close of Address. Loan Exhibit. Second Day of Celebra- tion, Dedication of Librarv, Cantata, Address of Librarian Wilcox, Prof. J. T. Bowne", Rev. Dr. W. R. Newhall, Loan Exhibit. Third Day of Celebration, Boulder Unveiled, Wm. R. Sessions, Dr. Marshall Calkins, Speakers, Anti-Slaver}' Demon- stration, Exhibition of Antiques. Farms and Homes of Wil- braham. LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS Town Crier, Anniversary Committee, Old Boundary Stone, Soapstone Boulder, . Indian Fireplace, First Page of "Clark" Warner Record, First Page of Minister's Record, . House of Isaac Brewer, . View From the Mountain, Schoolhouse of the Old Time, Old Merrick House, Present Merrick House, . Powder Horn, . . . ' . Schoolhouse on "The Green," Levi Bliss House, .... Congregational Churches, Burned, First Methodist Meeting House, . Brewer Inn Sign, Four Collins Family Portraits, First Station at North Wilbraham, Academy Rich Hall and Headmaster's House, View Across the Campus from Gymnasium, Bridge over Chicopee River, . Spencer Carbine and Sabre Hilt, . Soldiers' Monument, .... Foskit Home, Train Passing over Trestle after Washout, Cutler Company Mill, .... Peach Orchard, Clover Mowing and Barn, Glendale Church and Cemetery, . Grace Union Church, .... Christian Union Church, Church of Saint Cecilia, School Children, in Costume, Grange Hall, Stage Receipt, View from Mountain, Westerly, . View from Mountain, Northwesterly,. . One of the Floats, 292 Page XII XIV 10 23 25 28 46 49 64 73 80 85 141 142 164 169 191 192 217 218 222 227 232 251 258 260 263 267 271 271 280 282 284 285 -293 306 317 326 327 333 List of Illustrations One of the Floats, . One of the Floats, . Memorial Methodist Episcopal Church, Cutler Public Library, . Henry Cutler, Portrait, . Unveiling Boulder, . Soldiers' Boulder at Glendale, Dr. Marshall Calkins, Anti-slavery Demonstration, Maplehurst, . • • ■ Maplehurst, Interior, Maplehurst, Interior, Selectmen of Wilbraham, Congregational Church, . Rev. Martin S. and Mrs. Howard, The Merrick Elm, . Home of Clarence M. Ripley, The "Mile Tree," . Home of Ethelbert Bliss, View of Main Street, Ira G. Potter, .... Home of Chauncey E. Peck, Home of Fred W. Green, The Nelson Mowry Homestead, Home of William G. Rogers, Robert R. Wright, . Mr. and Mrs. Nathan C. Rice, Mrs. Nancy (Bliss) Rice, Home of Mrs. Sarah (Bliss) Gillet, Old Homestead of Rev. Joseph A. Mernll, Rev. Nathaniel J. Merrill, . Home of Annis Merrill, . Schoolhouse, District No. 8, . Embryo Pine Forest, Homestead of Francis E. Clark, Schoolhouse, District No. 1, . Schoolhouse, District No. 2, "The Pmes,' The First Bungalow in Wilbraham, Schoolhouse, District No. 5, . A Rare Scene, . . • ■ Home of Mrs. Leola B. Edson, Schoolhouse, District No. 7, . Home of Allyn M. Seaver, . Page 335 338 340 343 345 350 350 . 352 . 353 . 354 . 356 . 357 . 359 . 361 . 363 . 365 . 366 . 371 . 375 . 376 . 378 . 378 . 380 . 383 . 384 . 385 . 388 . 389 . 390 . 392 . 393 . 394 . 395 . 397 . 398 . 400 . 405 . 408 . 409 . 411 . 412 . 413 . 415 List of Illustrations Page View Showing One of the Industries in which Mr. Seaver is interested, 415 Home of H. H. Graves, 417 "Brookmont," 418 "The Century Homestead," 420 The Rindge Oak, 421 Rev. Charles H. Gates, 422 Wilbraham Woolen Company's Mill, 424 Homestead of Levi Ruggles Bliss, 426 Auto Inn, 427 Home of Ernest L. Thompson, 430 Home of Mrs. Lizzie (Collins) Warren, .... 431 Present Railroad Station at North Wilbraham, . .431 Store of Nelson I. Bradwav, 432 Colhns Inn, . " 433 Home of Frank A. Fuller, 434 The Baldwin Maple, 435 Erasmus B. Gates, 437 Home of Mrs. Harriet (Kent) Gates, 437 The Colonel Butler Homestead, 439 Jason Butler, 440 Home of James S. Morgan, 441 Schoolhouse, District No. 6, 442 Schoolhouse, District No. 4, 447 Home of Luther L. Farr, 451 Birthplace of Dr. Marshall Calkins and Dr. David Calkins, 452 Home of Randolph Beebe, 454 Portrait, Town Clerk, 458 Newbury Compass, 459 Memorial Town Hall, As Planned, 460 HEAR YM HEAR YM ALL Y^ GOOD PEOPLE CHILDREN OF DEAR WILBRAHAM, GATHER HOME, ALL WHO CAN. MOTHER CALLS, "COME YE HERE! THIS IS MY BIRTHDAY YEAR." 1913 "Town Crier, " Anson Soule, 6 ft. 3 ins. tall; weight, 240 pounds; age, 83 years. Charles C. Beebe. Benjamin F. Greene. ANNIVERSARY COMMITTEE. HISTORICAL ADDRESS Mr. President, Sons and Daughters, Dear Mother Springfield, Good Daughter Hampden, Friends and Neighbors of WILBRAHAM ' ' What is there to be seen On the Wilbraham hills of green, And what do you hear, and is it in your way? I hear my mother call, To her children one and all. And I see the children coming through all this summer day." ^ We have gathered on this anniversary occasion to recall the distant days of our ancestors. To re-tell the story of their struggles and their triumphs, and to gain such inspiration as we can, to carry on the work which they commenced here, and have now left for us to do. In a general way, to make ourselves better, to make Wilbraham better, and so, help to make the world better. It is an interesting subject we have to consider, and the fascination of it grows upon one, the longer we study it. I shall try to tell the story, so far as I can, in the order in which the events happened, and shall quote from the address of Dr. Samuel F. Merrick, delivered here in the old First Church on "Election Day," May, 1831, and from the Stebbins History of 1863. When we try to realize the great length of time which some portions of the world have been occupied by civilized people, we are astonished at the progress which has been made in this New World, in less than three hundred years. In the year 1630, seventeen ships sailed from England's shore, bringing 1600 passengers, to this, then almost unbroken wilderness. Those sixteen hundred people were not the first, but they were among the best that ever came. "Among them, John iFrom poem by Mrs. Jennie Tupper Dowe. 2 The History of Wilbraham Winthrop and his friend, William Pynchon, bringing the Charter of the Province of Massachusetts Bay, both patentees, Winthrop governor, Pynchon assistant. They reinforce the company already there and rapidly increasing; bold, hardy, resolute men; brave, gentle, patient women. They settle in Roxbury, Newton, Dorchester, Watertown." Pynchon had lived in Roxbury scarce a year, when three Indian Sachems came from the valley of the fair Connecticut River. They bring rich furs of beaver, otter, fox, wolf, and mink. They tell of their great river, fertile meadows, the salmon, bass, shad and sturgeon. John Cable and John Woodcock go to explore. They bring back a good report. William Pynchon himself explores. The western fever grows, and while the people of the Bay protest, the boldest spirits, most enterprising, the very elect, prepare to go. — -The Roxbury people will follow Pynchon to Agawam. There is romance in those paths. The leave- takings with old neighbors, the Indian trail through dim old woods and boggy meadows, the river fords, the ringing axes, the camp fires under lofty pines or by some gurgling brook, the feebler women borne on litters, the little children lulled to sleep upon their hemlock beds by the soughing of the wind among the tree tops, frightened by the screeching owls, the howling wolves, or the painted Indian. The procession of lowing cattle, the shouting boys, the pack horses, the armed men with trusty match-locks on their shoulders; and at morn and night the wayfarers gather about the pastor while the psalms are read and the prayers are said. "And they shook the depths of the forest gloom. With their hymns of lofty cheer." In Dr. Samuel F. Merrick's address, delivered in Wilbraham, May, 1831 (after about 50 words of introduction) he says, "As the first settlement here took place but about twenty years before the speaker was bom, and he having conversed famil- iarly with the first settlers, and living here almost eighty years, he has been invited to communicate some of his recollections of past events." Speaking of the journey from Roxbury to The History of Wilbraham 3 Springfield, Dr. Merrick says, "They accordingly took their march with their wives and their little ones, their flocks and their herds, and all that they had and entered the howling wilderness, where nothing dwelt but beasts of prey and men more savage far than they. And after encountering innu- merable hardships, in three weeks they arrived at their destined place of abode, without being attacked by the savages or any other material injury. They then took up four towns to wit, Weathersfield, Hartford, Windsor and Springfield, the latter from Roxbury." On the first of May, 1636, 277 years ago, William Pynchon starts with his Roxbury neighbors by the old bay path to Agawam. Their bulkier goods have already gone by water in John Winthrop's shallop, the Blessing of the Bay. "Learned, gifted, wealthy, devout, every way qualified for leadership, Pynchon becomes the father of Springfield, as he had been the father of Roxbury." "On July 15th, 1636 a treaty of purchase was made with the Indians, the conveyance bearing the names or symbols of thirteen chiefs and sachems. The grantees named were William Pynchon, Henry Smith and Jehu Burr and their associates." x\bout the same time the land easterly from the Connecticut River, for a distance of about five miles, or to Five Mile Pond, (near the present Parker Street) was purchased from the Indians, by William Pynchon and his associates for the inhabitants of Springfield. In, or about 1674, EHzur Holyoke and others purchased from the Indians the land lying easterly of the Pynchon purchase, to the mountains. The following is a copy of the Deed. Deed of part of the outward commons (in the original copy the letter u is sometimes in shape like the letter v, which error I have not followed) : "Evidence of the relinquishment of the claim of the Indians to the territory west of the mountains, found in the office of Registrv of Deeds of Hampden County. "An evidence of the purchase of lands at Freshwater River, taking in the medowes on both sides the River, as also from the 4 The History of Wilbraham lands from the five mile pond Eastward to y*^ mountains & so northward to Chickuppe River, being purchaes fro y^ Indians Wequaugan Wawapaw & Wequampo: by & for y^ Town of Springfield. "These presents testify that the Indian called Wequagan, formerly called Wruthema &. the Indian called Wawapaw formerly called Norapompolom in consideration of the sume of One Hundred & twenty fathom of Wampam to them in hand paid, And that the Indian called Wequompo in consideration of sixty fathom of Wampam to him in hand paid Have given granted bargained & sold, And by these p^sents Doe fully clearly & absolutely give, grante bargain & sel unto Elizur Holyoke, George Coulton Benjamin Cooley, Samuel Marsh- field & Anthony Dorchester, for the use & behoofe of the Town of Springfield certaine tracts of Land Upland Medowes and Swamps hereafter mentioned & described. That is to say, the said Wequagan & Wawapaw first acknowledging that their Ancesto" Did sel unto M"" William Pynchon late of Spring- field, for the use & behoofe of the said Town of Springfield a good Portion or tracts of Land lying on the East side of the River Quinecticut (& by the said River) that is to say, by the River, along from the lower end of the (medow, called by the Indians Massacksic & by the English called the) Long meadow up to Chickuppe River. And in breadth Eastward for al that Length about as far from the River Quinecticut, as the five mile pond w'^'^ lyes by the Bay path ; Concerning w^*^ Tract of Land the said Wequaugan & Wawapaw Doe for themselves & their Successors, for the use & behoofe of the Inhabitants of Spring- field, forever quit al right Title Interest Claime & Demand in & to al the said Tract of Land before described. And the Tract of Land w'=^ the said Wequaugan & Wawapaw Do hereby Sel as aforesaid Lyeth partly by & adjoineth to the South end & East side of the Tract of Land above described (w'^'' they acknowledg was sold to the said M'' William Pynchon as afore- said) That is to say, All the Lands w*^^ lie w'^'^in the bounds hereafter mentioned. And therefore the South bounds thereof, is the Riveret called by the Indians Asnuntuel (& by the English Called freshwater River, or freshwater brooke) & soe from the mouth of that Riveret vizt. from Connecticut or Quineciticut Riv"" the bounds Runs up the said Riveret to the medows thereupon & from thence up the said Riveret, the bounds take in al the medows on both sides of freshwater River or brookes that Run Into it to the upland on the Southerly side of such medows; & at the Place where Freshwater River or freshwater The History of Wilbraham 5 brooke turns Northerly, the south bounds extend Eastward to the Riveret called Seantuck, viz^ the place by the fals, where the path that leads to Pequit or Moheage goes over that Riveret & fro thence the s^ River Seantucke is the General bounds of the Lands contained in this Purchase, vizt. up to the Place where the said River or Riveret Seantuck comes down from the Mountaines, yet Al the medows on both sides of Seantuck River, are likewise contained in the Purchase, And from the Place where Seantuck River comes down from the mountaines, the foot of the mountaines is the Easterly bounds, up as far Northerly til it meet with the Lands purchased of the said Wequompo: & the West bounds or border are the Lands formerly sold to m"" William Pynchon late of Springfield as afores^ And the said Wequagan & Wawapaw Doe for y'"selves & their successor's to the use and behoofe of the Inhabitants of Springfield for Ever quit al claime to & al right title & Interest in any of Lands above mentioned & hereby sold, & which are contained w^'in the bounds abovementioned. Except liberty of fishing & hunting, which they Reserve to themselves, yet not to damnify the English thereby. At w'^'' tract of Lands w'^'' are Contained w'^^'in the bounds above mentioned, together w*^^ al the profit and comoditys thereupon or thereunto belong- ing, the said Elizur Holyoke, George Coulton, Benjamin Cooley, Samuel Marshfield & Anthony Dorchester for the use & behoofe service & imploymen*^ of the Towne of Springfield (& not other- wise) are to have hold & Enjoy y^selves & their heires for Ever w'^out let, trouble or molestation from the s'^ Wequaugan Wawapaw or any other : And the tract of Land hereby sold by Wequompo are such as are contained w^'in the bounds & limits hereafter mentioned & Described, That is to say, The South bounds thereof are the lands before mentioned, sold by Wequaugan & Wawapaw; And Eastward the Foot of the mountaines are the bounds thereof; & Northerly Chickuppe River is the bounds thereof; And the Westerly bounds thereof are the lands above mentioned fonn''ly sold to M"" William Pynchon as aforesaid. At w<^^ Tract of Land soe bounded & described together w"^ all the profits & comoditys thereupon or thereunto belonging the said Elizur Holyoke, George Coulton, Benjamin Cooley, Samuel Marshfield & Anthony Dorchester for the use & behoofe, service & Employm*^ of the Towne of Springfield & not otherwise, are to have hold & enjoy for them- selves & their heires for Ever, w'^'^out let trouble or molestation from the said Indian called Wequompo, or any other: And the said Wequompo Doth for himselfe & his successor's for the use, 6 The History of Wilbraham behoofe & benefit of the Inhabitants of Springfield for Ever quit al claim to & al his right, Title & Interest in any of the Lands above mentioned to be sold & w*^*^ are Contained wi^'^in the bounds above expressed: Except liberty of Fishing & Hunting w'^^ he reserveth : And it is the intent of these presents that y*^ s'^ Elizur Holyoke, George Coulton, Benjamin Cooley, Samuel Marshfield & Anthony Dorchester themselves and their heires for ever by virtue of these Presents are not to have any benefit or Priviledge in the Lands, otherwise than as they are or shal be Inhabitants of the Town of Springfield or otherwise, then in General in & w'*" the Town, or otherwise then they have legal Right therein, or may be granted by the Town, for that the Lands sold by the Indians above named, are so sold for & to y*^ onley use & behoofe of the Inhabitants of Springfield & to be wholy at their disposure. "Febr. 4th, 1678. Being desired at a Town meeting in Spring- field to declare what I know concerning the Purchase of the Lands abovesaid; I doe declare and attest as foUoweth viz: That "The Indians above named, viz. Wequaugan & Wawapaw & Wecombo the true & proper owners of al the Lands above mentioned Did sel and by sale forever passe away al the Land above mentioned to M"" Elizur Holyoke, Geo. Colton, Benja. Cooley, Saml Marshfield & Anthony Dorchester for the use & behoofe of the Town of Springfield: The bargain being made in my presence, and as I remember It was in the year 1674 or thereabouts; I was often w'*" y"" in Treaty about it, w^'' at last came to a conclusion, to be as above-mentioned, the pay- ment also for the Lands as above exp''sse^, passing through my hands to the Indians, which they Gladly accepted & did will- ingly own the sale to me after this Deed was Drawne, they comeing particularly one at a tyme to me to subscribe it, when I told them they must come altogether, the want of which was the onley obstruction, for they often severaly acknowledged the sale, & this writing to be according to their mind, and mean- ing. Also testifying their Readines to come altogether & suscribe, w^'' as they promised, so doubtless they would have done but that the Indian Warre happening in the year 1675, They w*^*^ other Indians were drove away, before which time they made the above express'^ Sale, And I do declare they did come personally & owne & acknowledg the conveighance & sale of the Land above mentioned, as above exp'^ssed. The History of Wilbraham 7 "This then done & by y*^ Indians Wequaugan & Wawapaw & Wecombo owned & acknowledged Before me JOHN PYNCHON, Assistant:' "This entred these Records for the County of Hampshire July 12th 1679 as Attest John Holyoke, Recor^''." I have not been able to find the original deed conveying the land east of the line indicated by this deed. There are many traditions respecting the claim of a blind Indian to the (mountain part) of the territory of this town, and of some compensation made to him to liquidate it. What was the town of Wilbraham from 1763 to 1878, was originally a part of the territory of Springfield, which territory was about twenty-five miles square, extending from Connecticut River east to the present line of Monson, west to Russell or there- abouts and from Warehouse Point, or about the south line of Enfield, to the mountains or thereabouts on the north. I do not undertake to trace the boundary line accurately. On the east side of this territory extending from Connecticut line to the north line of the then town of Springfield there was a strip four miles wide, called the "Mountains," or "Outward Com- mons" of Springfield. There was also a strip on the west side of about two-thirds the same length, and whose breadth is determined by specified bounds called "Outward Commons of Springfield, on the west side of the Great River." These outward commons on each side of the river had not been specially appropriated to any of the inhabitants bf Spring- field, and there was reason to fear that Sir Edmund Andros, Governor of Massachusetts, would take away the charter of the colony as he threatened to do, thus causing all the unappro- priated lands to revert to the crown — become the property of the king. To avoid such an undesirable transfer of ownership of their common lands, the inhabitants of Springfield voted in town meeting February 3rd, 1685, that after reserving three hundred acres to the ministry, and one hundred and fifty acres for schools, on the "east side of the river" and a due proportion 8 The History of Wilbraham to the ministry and schools on the "west side of the Great River," the remainder be divided among the one hundred and twenty-three heads of families or legal citizens ; among these is included, by special vote, "our reverend teacher, Mr. Pelatiah Glover." Including the "ministry lot" and a "school lot," there are therefore one hundred and twenty-five proprietors, among whom the land is to be divided. The division is to be made according to estates and polls — each poll to be valued at £12; It was also voted, that all male children, under age, should be counted as polls ; and further, that while these lands are unfenced, any person can use them for grass, herbage, and timber and that they shall be free from taxes till improved. As the lands appropriated would necessarily vary very much in value, and as it was not only just, but desirable, that each proprietor should have at least a chance to secure a good lot or a portion of one, these "outward commons" on the east side of the river were divided into three portions and those on the west side into two portions, making five portions in all. These portions were numbered from one to 125, beginning with the northernmost portion on the east side; and each of the one hundred and twenty-five proprietors was to have one share in each portion or division, making five shares in all. The first division and part of the second were north of Chicopee River. The second division extended from about a mile north of Chicopee River, south about four miles to about 40 rods north of the Tinkham Road, or to the south line of the farm of the heirs of James Merrick, formerly of Deacon Moses Burt, who built the stone house now standing there in 1830, and extending west from Monson line four miles, to the line of the Inner Com- mons, about half a mile west of the four corners, where our present Springfield Street crosses West Street. The third division was bounded north by the second division, east by Monson line, and extended south to near the top of the old Potash Hill, to what was then supposed to be the line of Con- necticut, and west to the line of the "inner commons," the same as the west bounds of the second division. The "inner The History of Wilbraham 9 commons" was that territory which extended from the "out- ward commons" west to the settled portions of Springfield, sometimes called the plains. Each of these five divisions was to be appropriated to one hundred and twenty-three persons, and a lot for the ministry, and one for the schools. We may say there were one hundred and twenty-five proprietors, or persons, between whom each division is to be divided. There will be therefore one hundred and twenty-five lots in each "division." These lots are numbered, beginning at the north side of each division; the north lot being one, the next two, and so on up to one hundred and twenty-five. These same numbers are drawn from a box like a lottery; from another box, at the same time we may suppose, is drawn a proprietor's name. The proprietor who drew No. 1 would have the first lot in the "division," he who drew No. 2 would have the second lot, and so on till the whole number, one hundred and twenty-five, was drawn. Then lots would be drawn for the second division, and so on till all the divisions were drawn. After the number of the proprietor's lot was settled, the next step was to determine its width; its length was four miles of necessity, because the lots extended across the "commons" from east to west. The width was determined by adding together the value of all the polls and estates, and then, as the whole amount would represent all the land in one division, or the whole extent north and south of about four miles, so each man's estate and polls would represent his individual portion of each division, or the width of his lot. A problem in simple proportion. John Holyoke was chosen to make out a list of the estates and polls, and very probably to superintend the allotment. The lots varied in width from one hundred and thirty-three rods, fifteen feet, and nine inches, which was the width of Colonel Pynchon's lot, being No. 2 in the second division, lying north of Chicopee River, and lot No. 81 in the third division, lying about one and one-half or two miles south of the north line of the present town of Hamp- den, down to only eight feet and nine inches in width, which was the width of the lot of William Brooks, being No. HI in the second division, and No. 13 in the third division. 10 The History of Wilbraham A lot four miles long and one rod wide would contain eight acres, so it will be seen that each of Colonel Pynchon's lots con- tained more than one thousand acres, and those of William Brooks about four acres each. It is said that no satisfactory survey was made of these lots, though several were attempted, until 1729, when Mr. Roger Newbury ran the west line of the outward commons acceptably. In 1863 a boundary stone in the third division was said to be standing, or rather lying nearly OLD BOUNDARY STONE. Now standing in southeast part of the town of Hampden. buried, on the north side of the then Sylvanus Stebbins farm, about ten rods west of the Main Street, and another was said to be standing about 1830 on the north side of the then Dr. Samuel F. Merrick house lot. It was many years before these allotments were definitely marked. Many of the original pro- prietors were dead, and the heirs of some of them were found with great difficulty, and it is said that another allotment was attempted in 1740 to about 400 persons, and another in 1754, The History of Wilbraham 1 1 on a different principle to 544 persons. But serious difficulties were in the way of new allotments. Some of the original lots had been sold, either by the original proprietors or their heirs, and it is said that the Pynchon heirs having obtained excellent portions, under the first allotment, would not agree to any new arrangement. In the survey of the original lots, for some reason, only six- teen feet were allowed to a rod. This is always mentioned in the early deeds, when the width of the lot in rods is given, so there would be a strip of "over-plus land" on the south side of each division. The "over-plus land" on the south side of the third division was sixty-two rods wide, and by some mistake supposed to be the loss of a tally, there were eighty-two rods in width of "over-plus land" on the south side of the second division. The south side of the second division, on our Main Street, is now the south side of the farm of the heirs of James Merrick, formerly of Moses Burt. The line is about 40 rods north of the center of the Tinkham Road. The eastern line of the Outward Commons was bounded on Monson line, or Brimfield, as it was then called. On March 23, 1684-85 a committee was sent out to survey and establish the line between Monson and Springfield. I copy the first part of their report. "We quickly found the Brooke there (Commonly called Stony Brooke) to Part and become two brookes— fol- lowed up the largest stream and found it to turn away East- ward—our Grant by y^ Gen" Corte was from the Brooke— about 40 or 50 rods east from where the brooke parts — on Rising ground by the side of Stony Brook we pitched our East Bounds, — about 40 or 50 rods further north we came to cross the Bay Path." They then ran the line to the north, and on April 6, 1685 ran the line to the south. In 1735 the line between Brimfield and Springfield was again "Surveyed, Run & Re- newed. Beginning at a dead Pine tree Standing a little North- ward of the Bay Path or (more commonly called) the Old Rhoad." The following is a cop>' of the vote of the town of Springfield by which the land of the "Outward Commons" was allotted. 12 The History of Wilbraham It is said this copy was recorded a century after the vote was passed : — "Feb'y 3d, 1684 (1685 as we reckon) Att a General Town Meeting. "Further forasmuch as the additional bounds or Grant of Lands to this Town by the Hono-''^ Gen''' Co^' May last 1684, was & is to the present Inhabitants & proprieto" of Springfield their Heirs & assigns forever. Many of whom are desirous of & moving for their Share in s'^ land, upon w'^^ w'"^ other Con- siderations Inducing, It was at this Meeting Voted & Con- cluded that the Eastern line or bound of the plantation of Springfield being run & Stated from Hadley Town bound on the North to Enfield Town bound on the South, Then all the land from the s'' Eastern line for four miles westward toward the s'* Springfield from both the Northern & Southern bounds is hereby Granted & agreed to be laid out in Proprietys to Each p''sent Inhabitant & proprietor his Heirs & assigns forever his due proportion, & also the lands on the west Side of the Great River from John Riley'® Brook Northward to Northampton bounds, & to Westfield bounds westward. Also the land from the head of the Brook beyond Thomas Coopers that runs into three mile Brook unto Southfield Southward & unto Westfield westward be alike distributed to Each Inhabitant & pro- prieto"" their Heirs & assigns forever; & in special it was Voted that three hundred acres at the least be granted to the Ministry on the East side the River out of the land hereby first Voted to be laid out as af ores'', & that one hundred & fifty acres be to the School out of the same & that the ministry & the School have their proportions in the lands on the west side of the Great River. As also that o'' Reverend Teacher M"" Pelatiah Glover have his proportion in the lands hereby agreed to be laid out on both Sides of the Great River. It was further Voted & agreed that the lands on the East bounds of the Town Shall be laid out in three Divisions & that the lands on the west side the gr*^ River shall be laid out in two divisions to Each man his propor- tions. It was also Voted that these divisions to each man shall be by Casting of lotts, & that division by Casting lots, be by as many lots or Casting of lots as there be divisions. It was further Voted that the first lot begin on the Northerly part of the land to be divided; Also it was further Voted that these divisions be by Estates and poles, & that the poles be Esteemed in the Rate at twelve pounds p"" pole, & that all Male Children under age be Valued as rateable polls Viz. 12 £ p'' pole. It was The History of Wilbraham 13 further Voted & Concluded that these lands when divided while Common or Unfenced shall be Common or free to all the Inhabitants for Grass, herbage & Timber & free from Rates till Improved & then Rated only as Improved, & that Jno. Holyoke draw a list of Estates & poles of the Inhabitants for the Measurer." I copy from the Stebbins History: The following is a copy of the allotment, made from the records of the town of Springfield. There was one division — the first — lying wholly in the present town of Ludlow, north of this second division, which was mostly in what is now the town of Wilbraham. "A list of the lotts in the second or middle division of the out-ward commons on the east side of the great river in Spring- field are as follows viz: — No. 1 2 3 4 Rods Samuel Marshfield IS Collo. Pvnchon 133 David Throw 1 John Warner 11 Samuel Stebbins 9 James Stephenson 1 Benjamin Knowlton .... 5 Joseph Stebbins 15 Obadiah Miller, Junr Ebenezer Jones 6 Eliakim Cooley 11 Jonathan Burt, Junr. ... 5 Widow Bedortha 4 Increase Sikes, Junr 10 John Burt, Senr 5 James Petty 4 Quartermaster Colton. . . 25 James Munn 1 Joseph Ely 1 Widow Sikes, Senr 9 John Stewart 7 Joseph Cooley 5 Jonathan Morgan 5 Jonathan Taylor's Estate 5 John Holyoke 26 Henry Rogers 9 John Colton 1 John Lamb 17 John Miller 6 School Lot 18 Revd. Mr. Glover 21 Thomas .Miller 8 Lazarus Miller 2 Nathaniel Pritchard .... 8 Henry Gilbert 4 Samuel Bliss, Junr 10 Thomas Taylor 1 Ministry Lett 37 Victorj' Sikes 1 Ft. In. 2 (i 15 9 o 1 7 11 9 4 1 11 12 S 9 7 10 1 () 13 7 3 4 8 4 10 6 7 3 12 5 5 « 6 7 10 14 f> 10 1 11 4 8 8 10 2 5 9 8 9 4 6 fi 6 1 11 2 14 « 10 3 4 11 1 Xo. Rods 40 Thomas Stebbins 5 41 Thomas Gilbert 5 42 Obadiah Cooley, Senr ... 20 43 James Warriner, Senr ... 20 44 Daniel Cooley 13 45 Nathaniel Munn 3 46 Peter Swink 3 47 Samuel Bliss, Senr 18 48 John Bliss 18 49 Samuel Miller 5 50 Nicholas Rust 7 51 Nathaniel Sikes, Senr.. . . 4 52 Goodwife Foster's Estate 5 53 Edward Stebbins 5 54 Henry Chapin 19 55 Samuel Jones 3 56 Joseph Bedortha 9 57 Lt. Abel Wright 16 58 Wido. Parsons 10 59 John Scott 7 60 Widow Beamon 8 61 John Clarke 2 62 Thomas Sweatman 2 63 John Clark'\ Estate. ... 6 64 John Dumbleton 11 65 Joseph Ashley 14 66 Obadiah Miller, Junr 2 67 John Keep's Estate 6 68 Philip Mattoon 5 69 Lt. John Hitchcock 22 70 David Lumbard 8 71 John Withers 1 72 Joseph Marks 1 73 Daniel Beamon 1 74 John Norton 8 75 Thomas Day, Senr 16 76 Edward Foster 9 77 Samuel Bedortha 4 78 Samuel Osburn 1 14 The History of Wilbraham No. Rods Ft. In. 79 Jonathan Ball 11 13 80 Samuel Ferry, Senr 9 6 11 81 Isaac Colton 13 3 3 82 David Morgan 9 13 6 83 John Barber 11 4 84 James Osburn 2 5 2 85 Ensn. Cooley, Estate 6 9 10 86 Jonathan Ashley 14 11 4 87 John Bagg's Children ... 6 2 5 88 James Barker 5 4 89 Joseph Crowfoot's Estate 7 14 90 Deacn. Benja. Parsons 12 6 7 91 Capt. Thomas Colton . 10 13 8 92 Samuel Ely, Senr 11 7 9 93 Isaac Morgan 13 1 94 Joseph Thomas 9 5 2 95 Samuel Bliss, 3d 2 14 4 96 John Dorchester 22 2 9 97 Joseph Leonard 14 8 9 98 Luke Hitchcock, Senr. . . 10 7 6 99 Wido. Munn 2 10 100 Benjamin Cooley 7 3 6 101 Wido. Rilev 4 13 10 102 Abel Leonard 6 3 9 A'o. Rods Ft. 1 71. 103 Benjamin Stebbins, Senr. 5 4 10 104 James Dorchester, Senr. . 12 11 105 Japhet Chapin 23 2 1 106 Thomas Merrick, Senr. . . 18 15 7 107 Thomas Jones 1 10 . . 108 Samuel Owen 9 6 11 109 John Harmon 9 13 .. 110 Rowland Thomas 12 6 7 111 William Brooks S 9 112 Benjamin Leonard 10 13 3 113 Josiah Leonard 10 10 7 114 Charles Ferry, Senr 14 10 11 115 Wido. Horton 19 2 9 116 Miles Morgan 10 1 10 117 Deacn. Jona. Burt 12 6 7 118 Richard Wait 1 5 .. 119 Thomas Cooper 18 7 3 120 John Crowfoot 3 8 . . 121 Nathaniel Bliss, Senr. ... 9 S 10 122 Samuel Ball 12 4 .. 123 Nathaniel Burt, Senr 23 . . 4 124 James Taylor, Senr 6 7 3 125 Ephraim Colton, Senr. . . 15 10 8 A list of the lotts of the outward commons on the east side of the great river in Springfield, are as follows, Viz. third division :- No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Rods Thomas Taylor 1 David Throw 1 Jonathan Morgan 5 Widow Beamen 8 Obadiah Cooley, Senr ... 20 Joseph Thomas 9 Japhet Chapin 23 Benjamin Stebbins, Senr. 5 John Warner 11 Nathaniel Munn 3 Thomas Cooper 18 Victory Sikes 1 W'". Brooks John Crowfoot 3 Rev. Mr. Glover 21 Samuel Jones 3 Lt. Abel Wright 16 John Scott 7 Miles Morgan 10 Joseph Cooley 5 Jonathan Taylor's Estate 5 John Norton 8 Thomas Gilbert 5 Deacon Burt 12 Ebenezer Jones 6 Joseph Bedortha 9 Nathaniel Pritchard .... 8 Edward Stebbins 5 Jonathan Ashley 14 Ensn. Cooley 's Estate. . . 6 Joseph Marks 1 Benjamin Cooley 7 Thomas Swetman 2 James Osburn 2 John Bliss 18 Joseph Stebbins 15 Obadiah Miller, Senr. ... 8 Ft. In. No. 10 3 38 5 39 10 1 40 12 41 5 8 42 5 2 43 2 1 44 4 10 45 1 7 46 8 10 47 t 3 48 11 1 49 8 9 .50 8 51 8 9 52 13 53 14 4 54 9 7 55 1 10 56 14 6 57 11 58 3 8 59 8 4 60 6 7 61 7 10 62 6 63 1 11 64 4 o 65 11 4 66 9 10 67 5 68 3 6 69 10 70 5 2 71 9 12 72 73 8 9 74 Rods Ft. In. Lazarus Miller 2 6 6 Samuel Ely, Senr 11 7 9 John Stewart 7 7 10 Widow Bedortha 4 3 4 SuiiiucI Ball 12 4 Samuel Marshfield 18 2 6 John Lamb 17 10 2 Samuel Terry 9 6 11 Thomas Merrick, Senr. . . 18 15 7 John Harmon 9 13 Joseph Ashley 14 11 4 Increase Sikes, Senr .10 8 John Barber 11 4 Lt. Hitchcock 22 2 3 Peter Swink 3 13 4 Samuel Bliss 3d 2 14 4 Nicholas Rust 7 Samuel Miller 5 7 6 Charles Ferrv, Senr 14 10 11 David Morgan 9 13 6 Isaac Morgan 13 1 Benjamin Knowlton. ... 5 11 James Dorchester, Senr. . 12 11 Philip Mattoon 5 11 John Keep's Estate 6 5 Widow Horton 19 2 9 Ministry Lott 37 4 . . Joseph Ely 11 5 Nathaniel Sikes, Senr. ... 4 9 David Lumbard 8 1 11 Thomas Day, Senr 16 3 5 James Stephenson 1 4 1 James Patty 4 6 Capt. Thomas Colton. . . 10 13 8 John Clark's Estate 6 11 2 Isaac Colton 13 3 3 John Leonard 14 8 9 The History of Wilbraham 1.5 Xo. Ro>U Ft. In. 75 John Dorchester 22 2 9 76 James Taylor, Sanr. . . 6 7 3 77 John Withers 5 78 Eliakim Coolev.. 11 1 6 79 Widow Riley 13 10 SO Henry Rogers. 8 8 81 Col. Pvnchon . . 133 15 9 82 Samuel Bedortha 14 3 83 Thomas Miller . 4 6 84 Daniel Cooley... . 13 9 5 85 John Baggs Children . 2 5 86 Samuel Osburn 15 5 87 George Colton 25 7 3 88 Henrv Gilbert... 2 89 John Miller 2 5 90 Dea. Benj. Parsons. 91 Edward Foster 7 4 92 Nathaniel Burt, Ssnr.. 23 4 93 Sergt. Hitchcock li) 7 6 94 Thomas Jones. . . 12 95 Nathaniel Bliss. . s 10 96 John Burt, Senr. 4 10 97 Richard Wait . 5 98 Widow Sikes 6 6 99 James Munn. . 12 5 100 Jonathan Ball. . 11 13 No. Rorh Ft. In. 101 Samuel Owen 9 102 Josiah Leonard. . 10 103 Samuel Stebbins 9 104 Samuel Bliss Senr.. IS 105 Abel Leonard 6 106 James Barker. . 5 107 Widow Parsons 10 108 Thomas Stebbins 5 109 James Warriner, S^nr. . 20 110 Ephraim Colton, Senr.. 15 111 Benjamin Leonard 10 112 Henry Chapin 19 113 Good wife Foster's Estate 5 114 School Lott 18 115 Widow Munn 2 116 Samuel Bliss, Junr.. 10 117 Daniel Beamon . 1 118 Jonathan Burt, Junr 5 119 Mr. Holvoke 26 120 Rowland Thomas. . 12 121 John Colton 1 122 John Clark _ 2 123 Joseph Crowfoot's Estate 7 124 John Dumbleton 11 125 Obadiah Miller, Junr. . . 2 6 11 10 7 11 9 3 9 3 9 4 6 8 10 6 S 10 8 13 3 14 8 1 9 10 14 6 o 13 ( 4 •;. 5 13 11 14 4 3 o 3 On "Nov. 7th 169S Colon<^' John Pynchon Esq-- M"^ Pelatiah Glover En^ Joseph vStebbins Sen. David Morgan & Jehojadah Bartlett went to the Eastward End of the Town bounds to measured the four miles Granted by the Town in Proportion according to the Proprietors Estates, as it was Stated in Mar. Ano: Dom: 1685." (Their report is especially interesting because of the names used to describe certain localities. The report goes on to say) : "And we Came to the Stated Pine tree over Twelve mil Brooke : on the Easterly Side of s'^ Brooke w<^'' tree was marked with S. P. for Springfield bounds when first said bounds were laid out as our Most Easterly bounds, & found the line or Rang of Trees y' Run North & South there at Our Easterly End, & finding s^ Pine tree which was Marked of old S. P. to be much burnt & decayed, tho S. P. w^as fairly to be seen & left unburnt when as a gr"^ Part of the Tree both below & above the mark was burnt, & s^ tree like to decay, we therefore (haveing a Compas to direct us) Tooke y*^ former & first line at the Easterly end s^ bounds w'^'^ was North & South & came to another pine tree about twenty rods more Northerly (in s^ Line) which was as formerly marked at the first Laying out of our bounds, & had the Surveiors marke set on Each side of that Tree, which Tree being a fair & fresh pine Tree, & from the first markt there, we gathered to it some few stones — & fro Whence we Set to worke to measure of four miles towards the Town from this o"" 16 The History of Wilbraham most Easterly bounds, marking Trees as we went." (I have abbreviated the report from this point, but have kept the names and description of locaHties.) " Coming on West and measuring One Mile we marked a white oake tree on the hill side which is on y^ easterly side of y'^ Brooke commonly called Eleven Mile Brooke, said tree being towards the Northerly end of s'^ hil. Thence coming Still on west marked trees till we came to Manchonish pond and marked a white oake tree close to northerly end of it, being two miles west of our most easterly bounds, and about 20 rods south of the north end of Pond, We estimated the width of the pond there at about 60 rods and measured on west to the rising near the gutter to a tree which made three miles. Going on thence west marked trees for the 4th mile which led us to the North end of Stony Hill, where Rosin was first made by Cap* Germon by Chickupi River, then westerly over s^ hil a little towards the northerly end of it & throw those Pine Trees used for Rosin to the Pondy Low Land westerly, and a little over that Low or Pondy Land our four miles were Compleated. We marked 2 pine trees standing close together about 30 rods southerly of Chickupi River. The said 4 miles being Compleated a little on this Side the place where Cap*^ Germon made Rosin." This survey or measurement, while it was doubtless made in a straight line, as laid out by the compass, seems to have been very near the Old Bay Path, and it mentions names of localities with which we are to-day familiar. We know that Five Mile Pond, Eight Mile Gutter, Nine Mile Pond, were given those names because they are about that distance from Springfield. But the name, "Twelve Mile Brook," as applied to the stream running into Chicopee River, where the river comes down from the north and makes almost a square turn to the west, has always seemed to me to be out of place. But I am glad to learn that it had in those early days the more appropriate name of Eleven Mile Brook and that Twelve Mile Brook is about where it ought to be, a mile further to the eastward, and about twelve miles from Springfield. It is also very near the eastern border of our town. I have also found those names applied to those streams in the early records of alterations and changes made in the Old Bay Road. It is interesting to know that our Nine Mile Pond was once called Manchonish Pond, The History of Wilbraham 17 probably named for some Indian, and that, previous to 1698, rosin was made at the north end of Stony Hill, very near the place where the electric railway now passes over the tracks of the Boston and Albany Railroad. On April 1, 1717, a committee was chosen to fix the line between the Inward and Outward Commons. I have not found any record of a survey until that of Roger Newbury in 1729. The following is a copy of Mr. Roger Newbury's survey as I have found it in the records of Hampden County in the Registry of Deeds. Page 2, Second Section, Records of Outward Commons: "To Col° John Pynchon, L* Will™ Pynchon M"" Glover and M"" Parsons (Comtee for the Prop" of Springfield Eastern Outward Commons. "Gen'n According to and in pursuance of the Instructions delivered to me from you With Respect to the finding out the length of your s'^ Commons and dividing them into three equal parts I have with my Utmost Care and according to the best of my skill measured s^ land and divided it as followeth. Viz; on the 20th & 22nd days of May last I began at the Northwest Comer of s'^ Outward Commons at a Stake and heap of stones which according to the best light and Knowledge that I could anyways gain was the end of the four miles measured out for s^ Outward Commons by Mr. John Chandler Jun'' and from s'^ Monumn^ I run a due South line and " measured down to Enfield bounds and found that there was twelve miles and one hundred and fifteen rods, which being divided into three Equal parts Each part or division will Contain four miles and thirty Eight rods and five feet and one half and at the Northwest Comer of the Upper Division by the Stake and heap of stones from whence we first set out we dug a Ditch East and South, And Another at the Northwest Comer of the Second Division in a low plain North of the west End of a certain Hill about half a mile North of Chickabee River, and another Ditch at the Northwest Comer of the third or last division at the South End of a little Marsh South of Worlds end Brook and another Ditch at the Southend of the s'^ outward Commons Next to Enfield s*^ ditch runs North and East. Dat. at Springfield June 4th 1729 by Roger Newbury Surveyor." 18 The History of Wilbraham "June y'^23: 1729 "At a Meeting of the Proprietors of the Outward Commons on the East Side of the Great River in Springfield W"" Pynchon Moderator Voted an acceptance of the within Return of M"" Roger Newbury Surveyor, and that the within Monuments made by the s*^ Newbury shall be the Standing Monuments for y*^ three Division of y*" s^ Outward Commons." Also at a meeting held March 27, 1738, it was voted to accept the Newbury survey. A few years ago I discovered a depression in the ground, in a piece of woodland south of "World's End Brook," (now Pole Bridge Brook), which seemed to me at the time, to have been made artificially. The place is in the woodland, about 40 to 60 rods south of the Tinkham Road, and about 60 to 90 rods west of West Street, very near the east side of the woodlot, and it may be the same ditch which Surveyor Newbury had dug, to fix the northwest corner of the third division. I have been informed by Mortimer Pease of Hampden, that there is a some- what similar ditch in, or near, the meadow, about 70 to 100 rods westerly of where the main road to Somers crosses the Scantic in that town. The Connecticut line, in those ancient days, was supposed to be about one mile north of where it now is. If these ditches are the bounds established by surveyor Newbury, they should be one-half mile east of the present west bounds of the two towns. They must be very near that. So far as I have found, Newbury's survey only fixed the west bounds of the Outward Commons. The land in the Outward Commons was divided into three divisions, and a lot in each division allotted to each one of the 125 original proprietors, in 1685, but it was forty-one years before the lots were definitely fixed, and established on the ground itself. The report of the laying out of the lots on the east side of the river, seems to be included in the records of the laying out of the lots on the west side. On April 12, 1726, a committee, consisting of Joseph Miller, Henry Rogers and Frances Ball reported as follows: (I have only copied what seems to relate to the east side.) The History op^ Wilbraham 19 "Accordingly we have measured out allottments proportion- able to Each Originall lott on y*' East side of y"= River and headed y'^ Same on y'^ East End of Each allotment with Suffi- cient bound stones or other Sufficient monuments fairly marked with y* Number of Each lott agreable to y^ list by w^'^ the s*^ lotts were drawn as appears upon Record and by which the particular lotts may be known in time to come. Viz. in y« Eastward Teer or range y'^ monuments are Set at y^ South East Comer — but in y'' Middle Range they are set on y« North East Comer of y^ lotts and y'^ marks are all facing to the breadth of y^ lotts." Such was the division made of the land; and the vote of the town of Springfield, by which this distribution of the territory of this town was made among those early proprietors, consti- tutes the original legal title which the present occupants have to the soil. It was about ninety-four years after the first settlers reached Springfield, before any attempt was made to start a settlement in the Outward Commons. The appearance of the land was not attractive. Nearly the whole territory, called by the Indians Minnechaug, "Berry land," had been so devastated by fires, that in many places there were no forest trees — and in other portions hardly any shrubbery grew. The low, swampy grounds and swales afforded a coarse grass which was mowed and cured for the support of cattle during the winter season, and the hills furnished pasturage during the summer. The tradition is handed down to us, from those early days, that the country was so bare in many places that a deer could be seen from mountain to mountain. Game was very abundant, and continued to be till long after the settlement of the town. Deer filled the pastures and the woods; wild turkeys ran in flocks over the fields and hills; the ponds were covered with ducks, and the squirrels on the trees, filled the air with their barking. Muskrats swarmed upon the banks of the streams and beavers built their dams on Pole Bridge Brook. About half a mile north of the centre of _our Centre Village, there is a cart path running off westerly from our Main Street, on the farm of the late John W. Bliss, now owned by his 20 The History of Wilbraham daughter, Mrs. Gillet, and about one-third of a mile from Main Street the path crosses a narrow strip of swampy land on ground that has evidently been filled in at some time. It used to be said that the beavers did it, and within my recollection the place was called "Beaver Dam." Shad were in the streams in springtime, and salmon, weighing from seven to twelve pounds, came up the Chicopee River as far as Eleven Mile Brook — now frequently called Twelve Mile Brook — where they were caught in great abundance with seines. Beasts of prey were not abundant, but sometimes bears made their appearance and feasted on the unripe com, much to the annoyance of the planter and the terror of his children. It was not uncommon for devout aunts to still the restlessness of the children, who were left in their care, both on Sundays and on other days, when their pranks were annoying, by telling them that the bears would hear them and come and carry them away into the woods and devour them. And I think it safe to say that some who take part in this anniversary may have been told that story. Not many Indians inhabited this territory at that time. The Stebbins History says but one. But I have learned from two independent sources, that a family, or several Indians, lived about a half mile west of our West Street, and about midway between our Springfield Street and the Peggy's Dipping Hole Road, at a place still known as Indian Rock, (there is a lane or cart path, running north and south, now con- necting those two roads), and that some of those Indians fre- quently came over into the village, to Charles Brewer's tavern, to procure supplies, and possibly some of the white man's fire- water. Dr. Merrick says in his address, delivered here in May, 1831, " I have been told by the first settlers that when they were boys, the place was covered with them," (Indians) "but I have no idea that they were ever by any means so populous as we are." Still, there must have been a large number of Indians here at some time, or they must have dwelt here for a long time. The thousands of stone implements, spears, arrow heads, axes, hoes, hatchets and soapstone dishes which have been found in these The History of Wilbraham 21 fields, and many which must still remain, will substantiate that statement. One Indian squaw lived alone in her wigwam by a little brook, some fifty or eighty rods southeasterly of the present residence of Mr. Bolles, and that fact gave the name to "Wigwam Hill," on which his house stands, and where the first meeting-house and parsonage were erected. I have gathered from the traditions of the first minister's family, that her name was We-sha-u-gan, and that she was sometimes invited to take dinner with the minister's family, and that once she invited them to come and have dinner with her. Before accepting the invitation, the minister's wife felt a little anxiety to know what she intended to have for dinner. She approached the subject in a round-about way, and the Indian woman told her she had caught a nice fat skunk for roasting, and she wished them to taste the cooking of Weshaugan. To partake of such a dinner was, of course, out of the question. But Mrs. Merrick did not wish to hurt the old squaw's feelings, and so she told her, in as kindly a way as she could, that while it was perfectly proper for the Indian woman to eat at the minister's table, his position would not permit him to eat at hers. Doubt- less the disappointed woman went down to her wigwam, by the little rivulet, wondering at the strange fancies of white folks. In his History Dr. Stebbins says of her: "Alone, the last of that mysterious race who had chased the deer over these fields, trapped the beaver in these streams, speared the salmon in these rivers, enjoyed the freedom of these hills, kindled their evening fires by these springs, and, as they smoked their pipe, beheld the western sky lighting up when the sun went down, as if with the smile of the Great Spirit and of the heroes who had fallen in battle, and buried their kindred under these trees, she lived solitary, the curiosity of the early settlers, harmless, quiet, meditative, seldom entering any dwelling, and providing for her own wants. At last even she disappeared. Of the manner of her death, or of her burial-place, no man knoweth. She passed away, as a shadow of the vanished race, ' the hunter and the deer a shade,' in the land of the sunset, beyond the western 22 The History of Wilbraham hills which she had so often seen empurpled at eventide." A poem, entitled " Minneola," published in 1905, represents that ancient woman, realizing "that the morning will soon dawn when she will not see its sunrise," telling the story of her people to a white hunter who had given her some game, and telling him how, when the others of her tribe had trailed away towards the sunset, she had remained here, to care for her blind and helpless father. And the author closes the story with this tribute to the old Indian squaw. Weshaugan! Weshaugan! Thrice a thousand moons have risen Since you heard the voice of duty Sounding in your heart from heaven; Since you stifled love and longing. Since you slew desire, ambition. To become a household angel Unto one of earth's afflicted; And the action is recorded. When the seals of time are broken. And the Great Book lies wide open, And the deeds of earth are spoken, We may hear the Herald calling, ' ' Come up higher ! Come up higher ! Weshaugan ! Weshaugan ! ' ' When I was a child, my great-aunt [Mrs. Gideon Kibbe], told me an experience of her mother [perhaps her grandmother], when she was a child of about eight or ten years of age, probably about 1740, or 1750. She was riding on a sled with her father, mother and other children near the close of a winter day, and they saw, a short distance in front, three Indians come out of the woods and stop in the road. The hearts of the children sank down into their little shoes as they cowered under the blankets, but the father drove right on to where the Indians were standing in the snow by the side of the road, and each was holding out his hand saying, "tobac," "tobac," "tobac." In a sermon some thirty years ago, our Pastor said, "Tobacco is good — to kill flies." [We have the same Pastor now.] The History of Wilbraham "23 An account of the occupation of this territory by the Indians would be incomplete without mentioning the soapstone dishes, and fragments of dishes, which have been found in considerable numbers, and for a long time, in the eastern part of our town. About ten years ago, the place where those dishes were made was discovered. It is about a mile, perhaps a little more, northerly of the Glendale Meeting-House, and about one-fourth ^ H ■V ^ r ...jkJ&MBI^^ H SOAPSTONE BOULDER. From which the Indians made soapstone dishes. of a mile easterly of the East road, or street, and just beyond a little brook running southerly through the swampy land there. The dishes were evidently made from some soapstone boulders, probably deposited in the glacial period, and the tools were pieces of trap-rock, probably procured from the Holyoke range of mountains. It must have been a slow, tedious process, which we cannot very well understand, any more than we can tell how those strange people made the arrow and spear heads which besprinkle our fields. About 1890, there were discovered, on 24 The History of Wilbraham the top of the first hill, at the north edge of our center village, near the present home of Wm. H. McGuire, and about ten or fifteen rods west of our Main Street, three Indian fireplaces, in a triangular position, about twenty feet apart. They were made of stones, none larger than a person's head, laid together, so as to form a circular wall, leaving a space in the center about twenty inches across, and about eight or ten inches deep. Two of them had been disturbed by the farmers' plows, but one was enough below the present surface of the ground so that it had not been injured. It was well filled with the ashes of many fires, and the soil within the others was blackened by the same cause. There are other places in town, which, when plowed, show where similar fires have burned, "When the smoke from many wigwams. Oft ascended at the sunset." But the control, or occupation of this territory by the red men was practically ended. The land in the Outward Com- mons had been allotted to the 125 proprietors of Springfield in the year 1684-85, and each proprietor's portion had been defi- nitely fixed by the survey of 1726. In this measurement of the width of the lots, the surveyors only allowed sixteen feet to the rod. Probably fearing that in measuring off 125 lots they might gain on the actual distance. The survey of Roger Newbury in 1729 fixed the western bounds. There was nothing to hinder the enterprising from entering in and taking posses- sion of the Outward Commons of Springfield. In the year 1727 Nathaniel Hitchcock purchased part of the lots drawn by John Hitchcock, No. 69 in 2nd Division, and No. 51 in 3rd Division. In 1728 Nathaniel Warriner purchased the lots in each Division drawn by Thomas Cooper, which are No. 119 in 2nd Division and No. 11 in 3rd. Each lot 18 rods, 7 feet, 3 inches wide. Also the 3^ part of Thomas Merrick's 3 allotments, which are No. 106 in 2nd Division and No. 46 in the 3rd. The 3^ part of each lot would be 4 rods, 11 feet, 11 inches wide. Also the 3^ part of the lots drawn by Thomas Swetman, which are No. 62 in 2nd Division and No. 33 in the 3rd. The Y2 part of each lot would be 1 rod, 5 feet wide. In 1744 Moses Warriner, brother of Nathaniel, purchased The History of Wilbraham 25 lots Nos. 15, 1(), 17 and 18 in the 3rd Division. The entire width of the four lots would be 49 rods, 13 feet, 8 inches, which would make about 399 acres. But as each rod in the width of the lot was 6 inches short, we must deduct about 12 acres. In 1737 Samuel Warner purchased the easterly part of lots Nos. 99, 100, 102, 105, in the 2nd Division, "Extending westerly 1M)|A.\ I'lKKi'LATK SO far as to the top of the Mountain to a small Gutter Running across said Lots Whereabouts there is a Highway Proposed to be laid out." At another time he purchased "J-^ of the width of the lot granted to Widow Riley." (It is lot No. 101.) In 1728 and the ten years following, David Mirick purchased lots Nos. 99, 100, Yi of 101, Y^ of 104, 3^ of 105, lOG, 107, 108, 26 The History of Wilbraham 109, 120. Also Nos. 12, % of No. 28, % of No. 65 in the 2nd Division, and f of No. 4, Nos. 8, 9, 12, 14, 43, 44, and K of No. 48, in the 3rd Division. In the summer of 1730, one hundred and eighty-three years ago, Nathaniel Hitchcock came out from Springfield Street, and cleared and broke up two acres of ground, and erected a log hut on the west side of our present Main Street, and about one- half mile south of our center village. After sowing his two acres with wheat, Hitchcock returned to Springfield Street to spend the winter and make the few prepara- tions which were necessary to remove his wife, whom he had married that year, to his hut by the "Mountains." In the following spring, May, 1731, he came out with his wife to his narrow field and low hut, and resided here a full year, with no neighbors nearer than Springfield Street, nine miles away. He planted his crops, mowed his grass, dried and stacked his hay, husked and stored his com under the roof of his cabin, gathered his wheat; "and when the long, dark, stormy winter evenings came, he was solaced with the music of his wife's song, and the voice of his child, and the crackling of the fire in his great open fireplace." "At last the spring opened, and not only the robins and the bluebirds returned, but what was better for him and for Hannah, his wife, Noah Alvord came and settled on the east side of the street," about 40 rods to the south, where Mr. Calkins lives now. The report of the land was good; and the next year, 1733, Daniel Warner came and settled on the east side of the street, five or six rods north of the lane, which, when I was a boy, used to be called Federal Lane. The place is now owned by Mrs. Mary (Howard) Green. And the next year, 1734, Mr. Nathaniel Warriner, afterwards a prominent citizen, the donor of the ministry and school-fund, located on the west side of the street, about 20 rods north of Hitchcock, at the house recently sold by Mr. and Mrs. Martin to Thomas H. Nims. "Of these four earliest settlers no descendant remained in town in 1863. Nathaniel Warriner had no children. Of Noah Alvord's four children, none had children, and the descendants The History of Wilbraham 27 of Nathaniel Hitchcock and of Daniel Warner all left the town years ago." It is possible that some other settlers may have come before 1734. Moses Burt, an industrious weaver and reed-maker, purchased the land where the stone house is, in 1733. Samuel Warner, and his father Ebenezer, settled on the west side of main street, where my home now is, in 1733 or 1734. I have not found that Samuel Warner was ever elected Precinct or Town Clerk, but he kept the record of births and deaths in the "East or fourth Precinct of Spring- field" for almost fifty years. The record is still in existence. The first entry was made "March y^ IS'"^ 1734," the last, August 28, 1783. For forty-nine years and five months, the faithful "Clark," as he was called, performed his labor of love, and 12 days after the last entry, he laid down his pen forever. The Town Clerk at that time, Mr. James Warriner, made the following entry, which closes the record which Samuel Warner had kept for so many years. "Samuel Warner Who had the title of a Clark Dyed 10th day of September 1783, at Hancock: 70: miles from home, at his Daughter Rhoda'^ for a visit, near the wann pool, and was brought home to be buried by his Desire, when he lay upon his Dying bed— aged 75 years, wanting one month 4 days." About 1734, Samuel Stebbins settled on the first road leading up the mountain, north of our present south boundary, on the easterly side of Main Street. This road runs easterly for about one-third of a mile, then turns and runs nearly due south for perhaps one-fourth of a mile, then turns easterly, and continues on up the mountain to the ridge road, to what is now known as the Burleigh place. Samuel Stebbins built his house near where the road lums from its southerly to the easterly course, probably a little south of what was the Foskit place a few years ago; where Mr. Richards lived fifty years ago. I find it very unsatisfactory to locate places where "somebody lives now." It will answer very well for to-day, but fifty years hence it will not be very j-u^Otje-^ I «^<^4/^5%^ ^^ ,r><-ve. ^^ COPY OF FIRST PAGE OF THE "CLARK" WARNER RECORD. The History of Wilbraham 29 definite. I intend to call this road, for its entire length, on both sides of our Main Street, Stebbins Road, in remembrance of this first settler in that locality. Nathaniel Bliss soon settled on the east side of this road, a little north of Stebbins, where Mr. Powers now lives, and a little later Philip Lyon located a little north of Mr. Bliss, where Mr. Lines lives now. I think there have never been any other places settled on that road, east of Main Street. David Merrick built his house on the west side of Main Street, near the brook which crosses the street, which I will call Merrick Brook. There he, and his descendants, lived for about one hundred and sixty years, until about twenty years ago, when the place was sold to Mr. M. C. Wade who lives there now. Abel Bliss located on the Ridge Road about twenty or thirty rods south of where the Old Bay Road branched off to the eastward. Daniel Lamb, on the Bay Road in the northwest part of the Outward Commons ; Thomas Merrick, father of the young man bitten b}' a rattlesnake, immortalized in song, on the east side of Main Street, about twenty or thirty rods north of the present south boundary of our town, where Mr. Walter Bliss lives. David Warriner on the west side of Main, and the south side of Faculty Streets, about where the north end of the Academy Boarding House is. Isaac Brewer on the west side of Main Street, eight or ten rods south of Springfield Street. He and his descendants occupied the place for more than one hundred and sixty years until 1898, when it was sold to Mrs. Gumey, who lives there now. Moses Bartlett on the Ridge Road, near where the present highway, which leads off from the Main Street, just south of the Stone Church, enters that road, and about where the old stone chimney is now standing. I desire to name this road, which leads up the mountain at this point, "Waukegan's Trail," in remembrance of those earlier inhabitants who have lived, and loved, and died here. (A story of those ancient people in this vicinity, written a few years ago, represents their pioneer, " Waukegan," as having come down the mountain at that place.) David Chapin settled over the mountain near the present Ridge Road. So far as I have learned there were no set- 30 The History of Wilbraham tiers in the south part of the Outward Commons previous to 1741. "Few and scattered as the inhabitants were, they were not indifferent to the education of their children. As early as 1737 the town of Springfield appropriated three pounds for the support of a school in the "outward commons on the east side." The Stebbins History says, "there were then, as nearly as I can ascertain, but eleven families." The same amount was appropriated the following year. "In 1739, the sum was increased to four pounds, and in 1740 to six pounds." "The Testament was the text-book in schools, as well as the oracle in the church. Dilworth's spelling-book was the guide in spell- ing." Of geography nothing was taught; of arithmetic but little. Writing received more attention, but the means of education were very scant at the best. During the first ten years, 1731 to January 1, 1741, there were thirty-eight children bom. The first one recorded is "Comfort Warner, daughter of Daniel Warner and Jerusha Warner, his wife, was bom Mar. 15, 1734." The first death recorded is that of "David Jones, son of David and Hannah Jones died Aug. 19, 1736. Burried at Springfield." Dr. Merrick says in his address, that the father did not want his child to be the first tenant of the Burying Ground. Two other deaths occurred before 1741, and both were interred at Springfield. The first tenant of the Burying Ground, now called Deacon Adams Cemetery, was "Widow Elizabeth Cockril who Dyed Apr. 26th 1741. She was the first person y' was Bured in y^ mountains." Dr. Merrick says of this incident: "In April 1741, Elizabeth Cockrel of Boston on a visit to her sister, who was Samuel Warner's wife, sickened and died here. Mr. Warner buried her here, and though he was not a stone man (stone cutter) he got two fiat stones and engraved her name, the time of her death, and that it was the first grave. Though I knew of the stones, they were so covered with moss that they could not be read. I got the moss scraped off and pointed (?) so that now it is legible." The stones are in the southeast quarter of the old burying ground, and are lettered as follows: The History of Wilbraham 31 E. C. IS the FI rST THAT IS 1 LAId HEAR H e A r Lys the Body oF ELIsaB eth Coc k ril Wo Dyed ApHL y'^ 26 1741 EAG 39 "Those early pioneers were hardy and industrious, and prosperity, such as they sought, as bounteous as they expected, was their reward; and eminently was fulfilled to every house- holder the promise of the Psalmist, 'Thy wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of thine house ; thy children like olive- plants round about thy table.' "Such was the condition of the settlement in the 'outward commons' at the close of ten years. Twenty-four families, or twenty-six, scattered over a territory of about four miles square, possessing only the barest comforts of life, include all the popu- lation. Most of their houses were probably framed, the saw- mill at Sixteen Acres supplying sawed lumber, but they were poorly finished, scantily glazed, and meagerly furnished, and rarely even plastered. Their fields were still narrow, and but insecurely fenced. The wild animals shared their scant harvest. They were far from store and mill. They had no roads for wheel-carriages, nor any conveyances of this kind, even if there had been roads. 32 The History of Wilbraham They were religious men and women ; and the way was long and difficult to the first parish meeting-house. The sun smote them in summer, snow and ice blocked their path in winter. When the Sunday morning came, some on horseback, their wives on the pillions behind, and the baby on the pommel before, and some on foot, started in the early morning for the meeting- house, nine miles away, by way of Pole Bridge Brook, over Stony Hill, along the Usquaick, or Mill River, at Sixteen Acres, and entering the Bay Road near Goose Pond" (now Win- chester Park). "The young men and maidens, for reasons easily divined, preferred to walk even when there was no neces- sity; and it is reported, not slanderously it is to be presumed, that the way seemed all too short to Zion, and all the more lovely becatise so few went up to her solemn feasts." On a Sabbath morning in winter, in that long ago, it is told how a certain Miss Peggy, clad in her "Sabba day" fixings and finery, mounted her horse and started for the distant sanctuary, passing along the highway which leads off to the westward from our West Street about midway between Springfield Street and Ludlow village. While crossing a shallow marsh, over which the trail led, the thin ice broke under the combined weight and the horse, the fixings, the finery, and — Miss Peggy, were all dipped in the freezing water. The place has since been known as "Peggy's Dipping Hole." The marsh, of some four or five acres, was drained about thirty-five years ago, and nowadays, in the good old summer time, the clatter of the mowing machine is heard, where then the screams of Miss Peggy resounded. For, of course, she must have screamed, when she saw that all of her fixings and finery were ruined. The way to Zion, by way of Springfield, seemed long and difficult, and the elders wearied of the way. "The briers were sharp, the swamps were miry, the fords insecure, the storms were drenching. Their souls longed for the courts of the Lord. They had enjoyed the blessing of the preached word in their homes on a few occasions, and it was pleasant to their souls. They cherished tenderly, yet timidly, the desire to establish the 'means of grace' in their own settlement." They talked over the subject in their families, and when they met by the way. The History of Wilbraham 33 "At last, Hitchcock and Warriner and Bliss and Burt and Brewer and Stebbins, and the rest, met, we may suppose, at Merrick's house, in the midst of winter, and talked the matter over, before the great fireplace. They are few, they are poor; they are not famous. But they loved the sanctuary and the ordinances of religion. They have faith in endeavor. They resolve to try the heart of the bretheren in the first parish, at Springfield Street, and of Longmeadow, incorporated as a pre- cinct in 1713, and see if they would consent to their being set off as a separate precinct, and aid their petition to the provincial government to that end, so that there may no longer be a ' dearth of the word of the Lord ' on the ' Moun- tains.' Their petition was favorably received by Longmeadow, and it was voted, March 10, 1740, that "the outward com- mons of Springfield, be set off for the benefit of the gospel ministry." The first precinct passed a similar vote March 21. The "Outward Commoners" take courage, draw up a paper em- powering their agents, and certifying to their authority and responsibility, and send up their petition, signed in their behalf by Thomas Merrick 2d, and Abel Bliss. The following is the appointment of "Thomas Merrick 2d and Abel Bliss to Prefer a Petition to the General Court to be set off as a Precinct." "We the Subscribers who are settlers on the Lands Called the Outward Commons Dwelling Some in the Second and Some in the Third Divisions of the Said Comons In Springfield on the East Side of Connecticutt River do Hereby appoint and Im- power Thomas Mirick 2d & Abel Bliss Settlers on the said Place to Prefer a Petition to the next General Court that we with our Lands and theirs together with all the Lands within Said Divisions being In the whole in length Eight Miles and in weadth four Miles May be Set off a Separate and Distinct Precinct and that all the Lands Lying in said Divisions may be taxed at Such Rate as the General Court shall think Proper the better to Enable them to Settle a Minister Build a fleeting 34 The History of Wilbraham House and other Publick charges that so we may be Enabled to Maintain the Gospel among us. Witness our Hands May 7th 1740. Joseph Sikes David Mirick Daniel Lamb David Warriner Daniel Parsons David Jones Benjamin Wright Isaac Brewer Henry Wright Samuel Warner 2^* Thomas Glover Aaron Parsons Cornelius Weeb Nathaniel Hitchcock Daniel Warner Nathaniel Warriner Moses Bartlett Nathaniel BHss 2^ Noah Alvord Benjamin Warriner Samuel Stebbins Jr. Samuel Bartlit David Chapin Jr. Moses Burt." "There are twenty-four of these subscribers. Adding the names of Thomas Mirick 2^ and Abel Bliss, (committee) signed to the Petition, the whole ntimber is twenty-six." These names differ from those given in Dr. Merrick's address. The Stebbins History says they were copied from the Records of the General Court in the office of the Secretary of State. The Petition of Thomas Mirick 2=^, and Abel Bliss is as follows : "To his Excellency Jonathan Belcher Esq. Captain General and Govemour in Chief in and over His Majesty s Province of the Massachusetts Bay To the hon-oble His Majestys Council and House of Representatives in General Court assembled at Boston May A. D. 1740. "The Petition of Abel Bliss and Thomas Mirick second for themselves and the rest of the Inhabitants settled at the mountains So called at the east side of the great river in Spring- field on the land called the Outward Commons, being the second and third divisions of said Commons "Humbly Sheweth that your Pet" live nine miles from the said Town of Springfield, which distance makes it very incon- venient for them to attend Publick Worship of God especially, in the winter season, that they cant attend the Service and Duties of Gods House as they ought, by reason of the badness The History of Wilbraham 35 of the weather, which makes the roads very bad and renders them almost impossible to travel in, "That the land lying in the Second and Third Divisions of the S^ outward commons being in length north and South eight miles and east and west four miles are very convenient and Commodious for a Precinct which your pet" are very desirous of, for the building of a meeting house for the Public worship of God in the said Precinct that so they may attend the Dutvs and Service of God's House seasonably and constantly as they ought to do. "And your Pet" would suggest to your Excellency and Honours That the first Parish and Longmeadow Parish in S^ Springfield whereto they belong voted their consent that your Pef^ should be set off a separate Precinct from the said Parishes. And therefore your Pet" humbly pray that your Excellency and Honours would be pleased to set them off and also to set off all those Lands which lye in the Second and Third Divisions of the said outward Commons being in length north and south eight miles, and east and west four miles a Separate Precinct, and grant unto them all such powers and libertys priviledges and Immunitys as other Precincts have and enjoy with and under such restrictions and limitations as your Excellency and Honours shall deem meet; and that all the lands lying within the limits aforesaid may be taxed further to enable your Pet'^ to settle a minister &c for such term of time, and at such rate as your Excellency and Honours shall think proper. "And your Pet" (as in Duty bound) shall ever pray. Thomas Mirick 2^ Abel Bliss." Thus pathetically and hopefully did they send up their prayer to those in authority. Their petition was received by the House of Representatives, June 26, 1740, and it was "Ordered that the petitioners serve the non-resident proprietors of land with a copy of this Petition, by posting the same at the town-house in Springfield, and by inserting it in one of the Public Newspapers, that they may show cause (if any they have) on the first Tuesday of the next session of this Court, why the Praver thereof should not be 36 The History of Wilbraham granted." The petition was concurred in by the council, and on the next day, June 27, it was consented to by the governor. At the next session, January 2, 1741, the petition was taken up by the House "and it appearing that the non-resident Pro- prietors have been sufficiently notified, but no answer given in, Ordered that the Prayers of the Petition be so far granted as that the Petitioners Together with all the lands petitioned for lying southward of the River called Chicuepe River running Easterly and Westerly through the said Second Division of said Commons be erected into a Separate and distinct Precinct and that they be vested with all the Powers liberties Privilidges and immunities as other Precincts hold and Enjoy and that all the lands Petitioned lying Southward of the River as aforesaid be subjected to a tax of two pence old tenor Bills p' acre p'' annum for the space of Four years Next Coming the money arising thereby to be applyed for the building of a Meeting house Settlement and support of the Ministry among them." This Order was concurred in by the council January 5, and was consented to on January 6, 1741, by Jonathan Belcher, Gov- ernor, and the "Outward Commons on the East Side of the Great River," or "Mountanes of Springfield," became the "fourth precinct of Springfield." "There was joy in those households when the success of their petition was known, and more than one man called upon his neighbor to bless the Lord for his kindness to them. "The ax was plied more vigorously, and the winter fires burned more cheeril}^ because the ark of the Lord was to be set up among them." On January 3, 1739, Springfield "Granted to y'^ People of y^ mountains for y^ procuring preaching 10 Sabbaths Twenty shillings p"" Sabbath provided they do not exceed Teen Sab- baths." On December 12, 1739, and on December 9, 1740, twenty shillings per Sabbath were granted for each Sabbath, provided they do not exceed twelve Sabbaths, to be paid to David Mirick as it becomes due. "For three winters, therefore, otir fathers were saved the The History of Wilbraham 37 painful journey, in cold and snow, of nine miles, to hear preach- ing." If there is any record of who preached for them, the papers of David Mirick must contain it. (Some of those papers are now in the possession of Mrs. Myron Bruuer.) The first warrant for a precinct meeting was issued February 13, 1741, by W". Pynchon Esq., "one of his Majastes Justeses of the Peace for Hampshire County," to Mr. Nathaniel War- riner, "upon appHcation made by Nathaniel Bliss 2^, Sam'' Stebbins Junr., Samuel Warner 2^, Noah Alvard and Nathaniel Warriner," requiring him "to Notifie the Freeholders and other inhabitants of said Precinct Qualified to voat in town affairs, that they meet and assemble togeather att the Dwelling House of David Mirick in said Precinct on the second Thursday [the 12th day] of March next att one o clock afternoon." The meeting was held at the place specified, and was organized by the choice of "WilHam Pynchon Esq. Moderator. David Mirick was chosen Clerk and sworn. Thomas Mirick 2^, Isaac Brewer, Nathaniel Warriner, Committee of the Precinct for the year ensuing. Isaac Brewer, Treasurer, sworn; David Mirick, Thomas Mirick 2'^, Samuel Stebbins, chosen Assessors, sworn. Nathaniel Warriner, chosen Collector, sworn." Thus the precinct was organized, and it is voted, that "the annual meeting for the choice of precinct officers shall be y"= second Wednesday of March annually." Six different meetings are held before the first day of June, to agree upon a minister and arrange his settlement and salary ; for it was customary at that time to pay a considerable sum to a minister, at the commencement of his ministry, called a "settlement," in addition to his annual salary. At the first meeting, held at the dwelling-house of Isaac Brewer, March 25, 1741, called, among other things, to see "wheather they will give the worthy Mr. Noah Mirick a call in order to settle in the work of the ministry in case they have the advice of the neigh- boring ministers," they chose Joseph Wright and Daniel Warner a committee "to make application to three neighboring ministers in behalf of said precinct for advice who to settle in the work of the ministry," and pending the procurement of this 38 The History of Wilbraham advice they voted "to hier Mr. Noah Mirick to Preach the word of God to them three vSabbaths beginning the first Sabbath in April next ensuing." Mr. Mirick had been preaching to them previously, as appears by subsequent votes, and had preached in all twenty Sundays before his ordination. They also direct their committee to "further pursue and execute a Deed that is Given of the Land called the Overplus Land given to the first settled Orthodox minister of this Pre- cinct." This overplus land, it will be remembered, consisted of two lots four miles long from east to west, the one on the south side of the Second Division being eighty-two rods wide, and the only one probably which was deeded to the first minister, the one on the south side of the third Division being sixty-two rods wide. This land was owned by the heirs of the one hundred and twenty-five original proprietors. Phineas Cha])in and Samuel Warner, the committee, have no small labor committed to them to hunt up these heirs and obtain their signatures to the deed of conveyance. The following is a copy of the Deed of the overplus land of the second division in the Outward Commons. Recorded in Book U, page 96, Registry of Deeds, Hampden County. "To all People to whom These presents shall come Greeting. Whereas There is a Tract of Land lying and being in the Town- ship of Springfield in the County of Hampshire and province of the Massachusetts Bay in new England In the second or Middle Division of the outward Commons so Called on the East side of Connecticut River being in length about four Miles and in Breadth about Sixty rods lying on the Sowarly side of the said Middle Division and adjoyning to the third or lower Division of said Commons Called overplus land which has not as yet been Divided and alloted to the Proprietors or owners of the Same but lyes Common. And Whereas there is about or Near Twenty Families already settled on the said Commons southward of Chickabee River, and tis probable that in some short time they may be set off a separate and Distinct Precinct. And in Order to Encourage the same and Especially for the Encouragement of the first settled and Orthodox Minister there when they shall be set off a Precinct. We the Subscribers whose hands and seals are hereto affixed The History of Wilbraham 39 some of the owners and Proprietors of the Said Tract of Land called overplus land as aforesaid being in Breadth about Sixty rods as aforesaid and in Length Four Miles. For the Encour- agement of the First Minister of the Gospel that shall be Ordained and Settled at the said place when they shall be set of a seperate and Distinct Precinct. Do hereby Give Grant Pass over Convey & Confirm to the First Orthodox Ordained Minister of the Gospel that shall be there Ordained and Settled among the People of that place all such Right Estate Title Interest proportion and Dividend of Land whatsoever which we and Each of us Have of in and to the said overplus Land Described as aforesaid. To be holden by him his Heirs and assigns to his and their own use benefit & benefit and behoof forever. So that we the Subscribers our Heirs and assigns from all Right Title to and Interest in the Premises by Means hereof shall be Secluded and forever Debarred, Saving only That we Reserve Necessary Highways through the same, as also so Much of the said Land as shall be suitable for the Place- ing a Meeting House on and for a Burying Yard. This Deed not to Take Effect Except the Major part of the Proprietors in the s'^ overplus land sign this Deed or at Least so many sign as to convey the Major part of it: "In Testimony whereof we have hereunto set our hands and affixed our Seals this Twenty Second Day Febru^'y an. no: Dom: 1739/40. In the Thirteenth year of his Majesties Reighn George y^ 2'^ King &c — Signed sealed and Delivered in Presence of The first nine signed in pres- ence of us Luke Bliss Charles Brewer. The Eight following the first nine signed in presence of us Noah Hale Benjamin Woolcott John Pynchon John Burt Sam" Leonard James Warriner and seal and seal and seal and seal Henry Burt and seal David Mirick and seal Nath" Warriner and seal Nathaniel Hitchcock and seal John Mun and seal Nathaniel Bliss and seal' Seventy-five different persons signed the Deed, and sixt}- four of them appeared, at seven different times, before Charles Pynchon, Justice of the Peace, and acknowledged the same, and also on two occasions, before W"'. Pynchon, Justice of the Peace, for the same purpose. Several of the signers died with- 40 The History of Wilbraham out acknowledging it, and, at different sessions of the Court, two persons would testify that they were present and saw the deceased person sign the Deed. All of which is recorded with the instrument. It will be remembered that Samuel Warner was one of the committee, chosen by the precinct, "to further pursue and execute a Deed that is Given of the Land called the Overplus Land" etc. — , and that they "shall hier a Justice Peace to take acknowledgements of the same att the Charge of the Precinct." In connection with this subject, I have found among the papers, left by Samuel Warner, the following: "1745, Dec. 16. Resaight Re'^^ of Samuel Warner 20 shillings old ten'' in full for taking sundry acknowledgements of a Deed made to Mr. Mirick Joseph Pynchon" On the 17th of April, 1741, without waiting for the "advice of three neighboring ministers," they "unanimously voated a Call or Desire that the Worthy Mr. Noah Mirick should settle with" them "in the work of the Ministry;" They also chose Aaron Stebbins to assist Chapin and Warner in getting ' ' More Signers to a Deed of the overplus Land and get the same acknolidged;" and to "hier Mr. Mirick Four Sabbaths more, if he Give encouragement to settle." The meeting was adjourned to the 24th of April, and at that meeting they chose a com- mittee of five to "State, Regulate and Draw up a scheem Relating to the Encouragement of Mr. Mirick's settling with them in the work of the ministry." The importance of securing a deed of the "Overplus Land" is indicated by their voting that their committee on that sub- ject, "shall hier a Justice Peace to take acknowledgments of the same att the Charge of the Precinct." They then adjourn to the "Eleventh Day of May next." At this May meeting the committee chosen to "Regulate a salary to ofer to Mr. Mirick" make their report. They state that they have taken the matter into serious consideration, and that they find "the monev or Coin in this Province is so variable and uncertain as The History of Wilbraham 41 to its value in Proportion with other eommodaties that they can't think it a medium whereby the salary can be settled or ascertained with any safety or security either to the Minister or People." "Wherefore," they continue, "we have considered the value or Currant Market Price of the several Commodaties hereafter mentioned. Viz: Indian Com att 6s. per booshel; Wheat, lis. per booshel; Rie, 8s. 6d. per booshel; Barley, 8s. per booshel; Oats, 4s. per booshel; Flax, from y*^ swingle, Is. 6d. per pound; Beaf, 5d. per pound." They further recom- mend "that Mr. Mirick be Elowed either money for his salary Bills or other Commodaties or Considerations Equal to One Hundred Pound a year for the first four years of his being settled and after the fourth year to Rise five Pounds a year till his sallary amount to one Hundred and forty Pound per annum in the Currancy above said so long as he continue to be their minister." They further recommend that a committee shall annually agree with the minister upon price, "before the meet- ing for Granting Precinct Charges," so that "the sum shall be Equal in value as above specified, and "that the whole of the salary be paid in by the Last Day of March Annually." They also suggest "that for his further encouragement he have the improvement of that part of the Ministry Land that will fall to the Ministry of this Precinct." They also estimate, "by a moderate computation," that the "Overplus Land," of which they are obtaining a deed for the minister, is "worth three Hundred Pounds," which is consid- ered, as it was, a generous settlement. They conclude their report in the following words : ' ' and for the further encourage- ment of Mr. Mirick's settling with us, it is Proposed that we Cut and Boat of a sufficient Quantity of Rainging Timber for a Dwelling House for him and convey the same to the Place where he shall Determine to Erect said Building." Such is the offer which these twenty-two or twenty-four landholders make to the "worthy Mr. Mirick to settle" with them in the ministry. The meeting "voated that the same be Excepted, Granted and Elowed in the value maner and Proportion, as it is expressed and set forth in the Report." They choose a com- 4.'-2 The History of Wilbraham mittee to "wait upon Mr. Noah Mirick with a Copy of said Report and the aforesaid voat for his Answer," and adjourn to the "Eighteenth Day" of the month, seven days, to give Mr. Merrick time to consider the conditions and prepare his answer. To us of the present day, when we consider the smallness of the number and the poorness of the possessions of the members of the precinct, the salary and settlement seem generous. Mr. Merrick evidently had some of the wisdom of the chil- dren of this world, as well as that of the children of light. At any rate, at the adjourned meeting, "it was considered that the offers for the encouragement of Mr. Noah Mirick's settling with us as our minister were not sufficient." This is certainly very modestly stated, and relieves Mr. Merrick from all sus- picion of having offensively pressed a bargain of his solicitous hearers. It is very probable that he had hinted some additional favors which they might render him, which, while they would cost little but labor, would be to him as acceptable as gold, for they vote "to provide the timber for a Dwelling House for said Mr. Mirick, which was not included in the former voat;" also to "Hue, frame, and Raise said building, for said Mr. Mirick." Meanwhile Joseph Wright and Daniel Warner, who were chosen on March 25th to take the advice of three neighboring ministers, have made the journey through the woods to South Hadley, obtained the opinions of three ministers there assem- bled, and have safely returned with the advice of Samuel Allis, James Bridgham, and Edward Billings, which is in the follow- ing words: " These may signifye that upon Application made to us by a Committee from a Place called Springfield Mountains, of their choice of Mr. Noah Mirick for their minister, that we approve of their Choice, and Heartily Commend him and them to the Divine Blessing." The advice is acceptable, of course, for these men of a "Place called Springfield Mountains" had already strained a point to make the salary and settlement satisfactory to the minister. The meeting adjourns to May 26th, and receives the answer that "the worthy Mr. Mirick gave to the call that The History of Wilbraham V.i he should settle in the Ministry heare," in the following letter: — "To the inhabitants of the fourth i)rccinct in Springfield convened, and "Dear Friends: I have now more thoroughly Considered your voats Relating to my settling among you, and must Con- fess that the matter Looks dark Enough with Regard to my support. Your encouragements, you must needs be sensible, being but small; but, however, Considering your Present Cir- cumstances and the great need you stand in of a minister, and considering further the unanimity you have Discovered in your Choice and the seeming call of Divine Providence, I dare not think of leaving you. "I have therefore determined (putting my trust in him who Careth for us all) to Except of your invitation with hopes and Expectations of your future Kindness to me, and your Readi- ness, att all times, to contribute to my support and comfort, as God shall give you ability ; and the Lord grant that we may live togeather in Love while we are hear, and when we go home may set down togeather in the Kingdom of our Lord and Sav'' Jesus Christ, to whom be glory, both now and forever. Amen. "Noah Alirick "Springfield May 26, 174L" The meeting "votes to Chuse a Committee to confer and agree with Mr. Noah Mirick Relating to the time of his ordina- tion, and also what Churches to apply to for assistance in the ordination, and to act in other affairs Dependent thereupon," who are to make "a Return of their Proceedings to the next meeting that shall be called." Events now thicken. The great day of desire is near at hand. A special meeting of the precinct is called, by a new warrant, May 29. Aaron Parsons "moder- ates" the meeting, and, with a pride which we cannot quite admire, and with an indiscretion which the fervor of their enthusiasm at the near prospect of having a minister all their own wall certainly excuse, they voted "That the Ordination of the worthy Mr. Noah Mirick shall be in the oldest Parish in Springfield, if Liberty can be obtained;" and, "that the Com- mittee shall take care that suitable Provisions be made for the 44 The History of Wilbraham Entertainment of those called to Assist in said Ordination att the expense of the Precinct." Whether "Liberty" could not be obtained, or whether the Warriners and Blisses and Warners came to their right minds after the meeting, which is to be hoped, they were saved that long tiresome journey across the plains, through the woods and swamps, by a final determination to have the ordination of their own minister among their own dwellings. Accordingly, a large oak tree, then standing near the house of Daniel Warner, which, as I have said, was a few rods north of Federal lane, was selected as the place to hold the services. A rude pulpit of rough boards was constructed, and a few^ seats of boards and logs arranged around it to accommodate the people. The morning of the great day to those people came at last; but it came not clear, balmy and fragrant as June mornings usually are; it was lowering, and the sky was hid by clouds. The "ministers and their dellegates and students" had come from Hadley and Springfield and Longmeadow and Brimfield, and the grave council was sitting in solemn deliberation, we may suppose, at Nathaniel Warriner's. The people were gathering, — Daniel Lamb from the plains, David Chapin from over the mountain, the Bartletts, and Blisses, and Burts and Warners. The venerable oak seemed to feel the honor done it, and welcomed them lovingly to its shelter, if not to its shade. The sun was getting high, and the clouds were growing thick. But the council did not come. A very serious diflficulty had arisen, which the learned and worthy ministers and their "Dellegates" could not remove. In organizing the church, before proceeding to ordain the minister, they foimd that there were but six members, — an insufficient number. There must be, said the venerable council, seven. On what ground this reason for not proceeding with the ordination was set up does not appear; the proceedings were all in abeyance. Dr. Merrick says in his address, "At length a man produced himself and said he had made up his mind to join the church, but waited only for the The History of Wilbraham 45 ordination. The council concluded they could admit him, which they did, and then proceeded." "It would be curious to know what they built their opinion upon, but my father, who told me this, said he never asked them, and he could not conceive what it could be." In a history of Massachusetts published in 1839, it is stated that David Warriner was the man who came forward to make up the sacred and required number of seven, thus reHeving the reverend council of their difficulty, and the waiting and wonder- ing audience of their impatience. But they were not soon enough to escape the gathering storm. Hardly had they reached the welcoming oak, when it began to rain, and they hurriedly adjourned the service to Nathaniel Warriner's bam. (This barn was standing in 1831.) There the ordination services were perfonned. The hymn was sung, the sermon preached, the prayer was offered, the charge given, the benediction pronounced, and the audience departed to their homes, with hearts overflowing with joy that the Lord had heard their prayers, and given them so good a man for their minister as him whom they loved to call the "worthy Mr. Mirick." The reverend council, their delegates, and students, after partaking of the hospitality of these frugal people at the houses of Warriner and Brewer, and spending the night, started in the early morning for their distant homes, leaving behind them good wishes and prayers fragrant as the flowers. The following is a copy of part of the first page in the book of church records, written by Rev. Noah Merrick. The record is in a homemade book of forty-four pages, con- sisting of blank sheets of paper, folded and stitched together. The pages are about four inches wide and six inches long. The writing is very fine and small, and some words abbreviated. "Records of y^ Ch'^ in y« East Precinct In Springfield. "June 24: 1741. was gathered a Ch'' in y'^ East or fourth Precinct in Springfield; consisting of y^ following persons; Viz; Noah Merick, Joseph Wright, David Merick, David r V •>, y , ^ ^ /^-, _^ ^/ /^ j^^ ^-tAr if- 9 . //7' . f'U\<.^i^t^i^cot--«f''^^<^t Committee" Ephraim Terry j When the reading was finished, it was "Voated, Excepted in the full intent Contents and Limitations Expressed and set forth in said Committee's Report." The great question now apparently settled, there is a lull in the storm of precinct meetings, and work is commenced in earnest on Mr. Merrick's house. At a meeting held May 14th, 1742, I find this record, which seems to be worth printing, to show what they accomplished in about six months. ' ' The following Grants mad to Defray the Charges Building y*" Rev"'^ Noah Miricks House made in the old Tenor. (Much abbreviated.) Aaron Stebbins 53^ days work 1 lb. 18 s. Stephen Stebbins 1 day drawing timber 6 s. Paul Lang don 2 days a framing , 18 s. David Mirick 5 days a huing 2 lbs. 5 s. David Mirick for his team and Boy most a day Drawing timber 6 s. The History of Wilbraham 51 Sam" Bartlett 4 days a framing 1 p. IQ s. Thomas Mirick 1 day with team 14 s. Thomas Mirick 3 days a framing 1 p. 1 s. Stephen Stebbins in Considarashun 2 s. Nathaniel Hitchcock 3 days a framing 1 p. l s. Moses Bartlett 1 day framing 7 g. Nathaniel Bliss 7 days work 2 p. 9 s. Samuel Stebbins team draw timber 6 s. vSamuel Stebbins 7 day a framing 3 p. 3 s. Phineas Chapin 1 day^ work 7 g. Jonathan Ely 4 day^ work 1 p. 8 s. Daniel Warner 1 day sloding (?) timber 14 s. Daniel Warner 1 day drawing timber 1 p. 5 s. Nathaniel Warriner 1 day sloding (?) timber 14 s. Nathaniel Warriner 1 day huing rafters 6 s. Sam' Warner 415 foot slitt work 3 p. 6 s. 2 p. Sam' Warner 1 day framing 7 s. Sam' Warner Carting slitt work 12 s. Daniel Parsons 415 foot slitt work 3 p. 2 s. 3 p. Joseph Wright 1 day^ work with horse 8 s. Isaac Brewer 1 day frameing 7 s. David Mirick 1 day with team 7 s. David Mirick 11 day® work, att 10 shillings per day, a framing 5 p. 10 s." Probably each man's work was deducted from his tax; or if the value of his work exceeded his tax he was paid the balance in money. The work on Mr. Merrick's house seems to have been pushed forward so that it was soon occupied by him. In October, 1744, he married Abigail Brainard of Haddam, Conn. On their journey on horseback to his parish, she carried some slips of a rose bush from her old home, and set them out by the new one. She gave many slips to the neighbors, and some are still in existence here. The story was first told me when a child, by my great-aunt, who, in her youth was a near neighbor of Mrs. Merrick, but it passed out of my thought for fift\- years, until a few years ago, when a lady of our town handed one of my family a bouquet of roses, and, indicating a few of the blossoms she said, "Those are the Parson's Rose." Then it all came back to me, and I wrote it out in a poem of thirty or more verses, with the title of the "Parson's Rose," which was 52 The History of Wilbraham published in 1904-05. I insert a few of the verses, as it is a true Wilbraham story. THE PARSON'S ROSE Far, far away, in the dear old days, The almost forgotten days of yore, A maiden stood at the meeting place Of the streamlet with the river's shore. Her heart was his who was riding down From the precinct where he preached God's will, To bear her a bride, from Haddam town. To his parish home on Wigwam Hill. On stores of clothing and linen, long She had wrought her love in thoughtful ways ; The wheel and shuttle had sung their song In her happy home through the summer days. A horseman riding since break of day Over the hills and under the lea. On woodland trail and the King's highway. With a happy song in his heart rode he. So the lover came on his own good steed. At evening came as the sun went down. Came in a day, for he rode with speed. To marry his bride in Haddam town. As the evening shadows grew apace. And the soaring swallow sought his mate. And the full moon showed its welcome face, She met him there at her father's gate. The minister came, the same good man Whose hand was laid on her baby head; With the Lord's baptism her life began. And as oft since then, a prayer was said. A rose bush grew by her father's door, A wide-spread bush, bearing wealth of bloom; It had blossomed there from days of yore. And filled the house with a sweet perfume. The History of Wilbraham 53 From it she took a generous store Of slips to plant by her new home's ways, They would call to mind forevermore, The old home Hfe of her girlhood days. ***** The sun was painting the eastern sky With the rose-red hue of breaking day, As they rode at mom, the trail to try, Of forest path and the King's highway. ***** On her own horse she the loved slips bore Throughout that ride on the hunter's trail. With her own hands set them by the door Of the parish house above the vale. ***** She gave to all from her generous store, To all who came and a rootlet chose, Till the slips were set by many a door. And came to be called "The Parson's Rose." The seasons came and the swift years sped, But the roses bloomed around her door. With a fragrance sweet as when she wed In the scarce remembered days of yore. The Parson and bride they fell asleep, A century since on Wigwam Hill, But treasured slips, with blossoms sweet. Of "The Parson's Rose," we find them still. Bloom on, fair roses from Haddam town. And stir our hearts with the old home love, Days await us when deeds we have done, Will all be counted somewhere above. So may some of the deeds we have wrought. When our day of life draws near its close, Bring to our minds as fragrant a thought. As the young bride planting the Old Home Rose. 54 The History of Wilbraham After the finishing of the minister's house, we hear nothing about building the meeting house till November 24, 1742, when, at a precinct meeting, "Eighty pounds old Tenor bills are Voated and Granted to Provide Matterials toards building a Meeting House in this Precinct, Viz. Nails, Glass, Covering &c.;" and "David Mirick, Sam" Stebbins, Daniel Cadwell, Sam" Bartlett and Abel Bliss are chosen a Committee to Take Care and Provide Materials in Order to Build Said Meeting House." The winter of 1742-43 is improved by gathering the materials. On May 25, 1743, "The following Grants or Elowances that are made att this Meeting are made in the Old Tenor. " " Voated and Elowed" precedes each of the following. "To Nathaniel Warriner 4 pounds 15 shillings for one thousand of Good Pine Boards inch thick Delivered on that Hill appointed by a Committee Chosen by this Precinct to Erect the first meeting house on. To Stephen Stebbins 2 pounds 15 shillings for 600 foot of Quarter Boards Delivered as a bove Said. To Sam" Stebbins 5 pounds 4 shillings for 1034 foot of Quarter Boards Del'"* as a bove said. To Aaron Parsons 2 pounds six shillings for 500 foot of Good Marchantable Pine Boards. Delivered as a bove said. To Jonathan Ely 1 pound 8 shiUings 6 pence for 300 foot of inch Pine Boards. To Moses Bartlett 1 pound seven shilHngs and 6 pence for 300 foot of Good Marchantable Pine Boards. To Caleb Stebbins 18 shillings and 4 pence for 200 foot of Good Marchantable Pine Boards. To David Mirick 2 pounds 5 shillings for a 1000 of Good Seader Shingles. To Daniel Cadwell 18 shillings & 4 pence for 200 foot of Good Marchantable Pine Boards. To Moses Burt 2 pounds 5 shiUings for a 1000 of Good Sedar Shingles. To Nathaniel BHss 2 pounds 8 for a 1000 of Good Spruce Shingles without sap. To Sam" Bartlett 2 pounds 5 shillings for a 1000 of Spruce Shingles without sap. To Phineas Chapin 2 pounds and 7 shillings for 1000 of Spruce Shingles without sap. To Daniel Parsons 2 pounds 8 shillings for a 1000 of Sedar Shingles. To David Jones 2 pounds & 5 shillings for a 1000 of Sedar Shingles. To Caleb Stebbins 2 pounds & 8 shilHngs for a 1000 of Good Marchantable Spruce Shingles. To Sam" Warner 3 pounds 6 shillings and a penny for 700 & 18 foot of Good Marchantable Quarter Boards. To Daniel Cadwell 2 pounds six shillings for 500 foot of Good Marchantable The History of Wilbraham 55 Quarter Boards. To Thomas Mirick 2 pounds 8 shillings for a foOO of Good Marchantable Spruce Shingles without sap." It seems that quite an amount of material had been gathered, and we imagine that the hammerers and sawyers, the hewers and the framers are following close upon the "Scriber" as he lays out the work, improving every day, between planting and hoeing, and haying and sowing, so that when the autumn comes, the doors of the sanctuary will be opened for worshipers. Alas for human expectations! Instead of this result, we find that nothing had been done. For at a meeting November 29, an attempt is made to change the location, but it was not suc- cessful, for December 8, 1743, it is "Voated to build a meeting house on that spot of Land that this Precinct voated to build one on at a former meeting," and also that the "Precinct Com- mittee shall take care to Provide a Place for the Carring on the Worship of God." So the matter rested for more than a year. Some idea of prices at that time may be had from a vote taken at a meeting held December 10, 1744. "Voated to Thomas Mirick 10 shillings for two quires of paper for the use of Precinct Com. & Treasurer." The location of the meeting house was still an unsettled question, for on April 10, 1745, the precinct "Voted that the meeting House shall be set by the West Rode of this Precinct on the Land Called the over Plus Land in the middle Division." Our present Main Street was then called the West Road, and evidently the intention was to set the meeting house on that piece of land, since called "The Green," about where the school house of District No. 3 now is. It is apparent that the fathers felt the need of the most accurate information, for at a precinct meeting, about this time, they "Voated to Daniel Warner 6 pounds for the Province Law Books." But the all important question of a location for the meeting house would not stay settled. At a meeting held October 28, 1745, those who favored the Wigwam Hill location rallied all their forces and out-voted the "West Rode" parties, and, "Voated to Build the Meeting House on the Hill Called Wigwam Hill" 56 The History of Wilbraham and "to chuse some Judicious Men to advise us as to some measures whereby we may Establish a Place where to Erect a meeting House in this Precinct," and it was "Voated that Mr. John Worthington, Mr. Francis Ball and Mr. Timothy Nash be advisers in the affair aforesaid;" and Caleb Stebbins is to "apply himself to said advisors in behalf of the Precinct." The committee may have given some advice, but they did not make any report that is recorded. On November 4, 1745, it is ' ' Voated to Chuse a Committee to determine the Place or Spot on the Overplus Land in y* Middle Division, viewing the laud at large, where the first Meeting House shall be erected," and that "Ensign William King, Lieutenant Abraham Adams, and Leut. Thomas Jones " be that committee. The next vote passed at this meeting seems to specify more definitely the powers of the committee, and the purposes of the precinct. "Voated, That Leut. Abraham Adams, of Suffield, Ens" William King, of Suffield, and Leut. Thomas Jones of Endfield, be a Committee to appoint and Determine in what Place in the Over Plus Land in the middle division in this Precinct, it is most fit for this Precinct to build their Meeting House, and that the Place which they shall appoint shall be the Place of Seting it, and that the Meeting House be set there accordingly, at the charge of this Precinct, and of such Dementions as this Precinct shall determine;" and Nathaniel Warriner is directed "to apply to the Committee," and "Daniel Parsons and Nathaniel Bliss to wait on the afores"^ committee in showing of them the Land." The meeting was then adjourned to November 18, — two weeks — when the report of the committee was received, whose deci- sion they had voted should be final. The committee report: "Pursuant to the trust Reposed in us by said Precinct, after viewing the Land and hearing the Pleas in said Precinct, we Judge and Determine that the Meeting House be built on a Hill Commonly Called Wigwam Hill, about seven or eight and twenty Rods southward of the house of Rev. Noah Mirick" [which was six or eight rods northwesterly of the house in which Henry T. and C. P. Bolles now live], "and about seven Rods south westward from a pine tree which we have mark' with The History of Wilbraham 57 an ax as wittness our hands this sixteenth day of November, 1745." The good people generously paid Adams and King, of Suffield, each, "four pounds," and "Jones of Enfield, three pounds 15 shillings, old tenor, for their services;" and Nathaniel Bliss and Daniel Parsons each "one pound five shillings for Rideing with the Committee 2 days & half;" and Dea. Nathaniel Warriner "one pound six Pence for Procuring the Committee, and two Pound twelve shillings & six Pence," all in "Old Tenor, for Keeping said Committee and their Horses." The meetings on Sunday having been held in Daniel Parsons' house, he was paid for its use for the year ending March 22, 1746, "two pounds, old tenor;" and in May there are "Voated and granted to Isaac Brewer, att the Rate of three pounds old tenor per year, for the use of his Chamber to Cary on the pubhck worship in," and "that he shall have Reasonable Elowance for fitting up said Chamber for the Decent Carrying on the worship in." The next year, March 17, 1747, there was "Voated and granted to Isaac Brewer twelve shilHngs, old tenor, for his Services in Riging up his chamber for the Publick Worship, with the nails he Provided." Everything now seems to be well arranged, a temporary place of worship provided, and the location of the meeting house decided ; nothing remains but to go on and finish the building. Still things did not run smoothly. The precinct had for some cause got into a lawsuit with Daniel Parsons ; the owners would not pay the ' ' two pence per acre" land tax, and suits were growing up because the lands were sold to pay them. It seemed desirable to some "that the Lands that were given to the Rev. Mr. Mirick should be exempt from the tax laid upon it. Either in whole or in part;" and more than all, the meeting house question would not remain settled, but thrust itself fonvard at the precinct meet- ings, and on March 4, 1747, the precinct "Voats to Chuse Ensign Joseph Sexton, of Summers, Leut""^ Joseph Blocket, of Brimfield, and Leut"' Gersham Makepice, of Western, a com- mittee" to "locate the meeting house and that they have liberty to set it in any place in the Precinct, and said com- mittee shall view the lands of said Precinct at large, or till 58 The History of Wilbraham they be satisfied." They are no longer confined to the "Over- plus Land." The precinct is "All before them where to choose." A committee is chosen "to show them the land;" another, to entertain them; another, of six members, "to take care to build the meeting house at the cost of the Precinct where it is located," making it "forty five feet long, thirty five feet wide, and of suitable height." On the "first Monday in May, at 3 o'clock in the afternoon," it is "Voated that the award of the committee be accepted and recorded;" which was as follows: "We doe award. Prefix & Determine that the spot or place where their meeting House ought to be set, is on the Hill Com- monly Called the Wigwam Hill, the centre of said spot being att a walnut Staddle of about four or five inches Diameter, there being a fast stone in the Ground, about two feet and a half northwest of said staddle; said staddle standing twenty- eight Rods & sixteen Links, Running by a point of compass from the southwest comer of Mr. Noah Mirick's dwelling-house, south sixteen degrees thirty minits East unto said staddle." After a struggle of six years, and the assistance of four different committees, chosen from outside the precinct, the "Place or Spot" is again selected, although the last location is prac- tically the same as the one preceding it. So it appears that three different places were selected, at different times, on which to build the meeting house. First, on the hill, sometimes called Pine Hill, about sixty rods east of our present Main Street. Second, "by the West Rode," [the Green] and third and fourth, on Wigwam Hill. It is probable that the settlers in the east and south parts of the precinct favored that location. The "Stebbins History" says "there was a common of about two acres on which the meeting house was placed," and, that so much progress had been made in building the meeting house, that December 25, 1747, a precinct meeting is called "to be held at the house of Nathaniel Hitchcock or House of Publick Worship;" But it is probable that the words, "House of Public Worship" refer to Hitchcock's house, for his house had been used for that purpose, and at the precinct meeting held the next spring on March 15, 1748, the record says they were ''assembled The History of Wilbraham 59 at the House of Nathaniel Hitchcock or House of PubHc Wor- ship." At the meeting held December 25, 1747, the precinct " Voated & Granted Three Hundred and fifty pounds old tenor Bills for Defraying the Charge of Building a meeting House in this Precinct." So it wpuld seem that nothing had yet been done towards erecting the building. At the precinct meeting held at Hitchcock's house, March 15, 1748, there was an article in the warrant as follows, "Article 4, to Pass any further voats if thought Necessary Relating to Building a meeting House in S^ Precinct." There was no action on this article, as the pre- cinct had voted at the previous meeting in December, to appro- priate the money for the building. After a struggle of nearly seven years, from December 5, 1741, to March 15, 1748, the "place or spot for setting the meeting house" is determined, and the necessary funds have been voted. Warriner's "seadar shingles," and Brewer's "good pine timber," and Stebbins' "Marchantable pine boards," and Warner's " slit work " have been seasoning and rotting on Pine Hill for nearly five years, waiting for the builders. At last the long looked for hour has come. Teams, scribers, axes, saws and hammers, and those eager pioneers, are busy at the task they loved, and so much progress was made that the meeting house was used late in 1748. In the record of births, kept by "Clark" Warner, is the fol- lowing entry: "Charles Brewer, son of Isaac and Mary Brewer was bom Dec. 18, 1748 the first that was Baptised in our meeting hous." And in the church record is this entry : "Dec. 25, 1748, Charles, son of Isaac Brewer, Baptised, in meeting house." The next previous baptism is October 30, 1748. So that it is probable that the house was first used for public worship about that time. There is no record of any dedication services. The building was a mere shell for some \-ears. On January 2, 1749, the precinct met at the meeting house, but adjourned to the house of Nathaniel Hitchcock, because, it is very likely, it was too cold to remain for the transaction of business, where they could endure to remain, warmed by the fervors of devotion, to worship. When they were assembled at 60 The History of Wilbraham Hitchcock's, they, "Voated and Granted fourty Pounds old tenor to support the Charge of further finishmg the meeting House." About two weeks later, on January 16, 1749, they met at the meeting house and, "15 pounds old tenor Granted to further finish the Meeting House. "^ At this same meeting, January 16, 1749, "David Mirick, Isaac Brewer, and Nathaniel Warriner" were "chosen a committee to Represent the Precinct to the town of Springfield in taking some measures to Get set off for a town in this fourth Pre- cinct." So it seems the fathers gave some thought to the problems concerning an independent political existence, as a town, thus early. December 28th, 1749, the precinct "Voated and Granted to Nathaniel Hitchcock fifteen shillings old tenor for his services Clearing and sweeping the Meeting House," and March 17, 1750, "Voated and Granted to D" Nathaniel Warriner 40 shillings old tenor for Procuring the Meeting House swept the past year." At the same meeting, "Voated that Nathaniel Hitchcock Clear and make Decent the burying yard by the Charge of the Precinct." Some idea of the difference in value between "Old Tenor Bills," and "lawful money," may be gained by the two following votes. "Jan. 9, 1750, Voated for the Ministers salary for the past year 387 pounds 5 shillings old tenor." One year later, December 24, 1750, "Voated and Granted to the Rever"*^ Mr. Noah Mirick 41 pounds 8 shillings lawful money for his salary for the year past." It will be seen that, at that time, one pound in "lawful money "[coin]," was worth nearly ten pounds in "Old tenor." In 1749 the selectmen of Springfield laid out, or altered, the road "running east & west near the rev^. Mr. Noah Miricks Dwelling — Beginning at the west road "[Main Street]" about 40 rod south of Moses Burt's Dwelling House at a black oak tree thence easterly "[the distances only are given here]" 30 rods, then 18 rods, 24 rods, 18 rods, 14 rods, 6 rods, 20 rods, 14 rods, 13 rods, then 27 rods to the Rev<^ Mr. Miricks Stone wall that Encloseth his Garden," [the stone wall is still there] "then eastward" [the distances are given with each change in the direction, amounting in all to 184 rods] "at or near the Road The History of Wilbraham 61 called the middle Road" [now Ridge Road]. The east part of that road, beyond the minister's house, was discontinued about fifty or sixty years ago, as the present road, leading over the mountain to Monson, rendered it unnecessary. Also on March 8, 1749, they laid out the road which has since been called, "Meeting House Lane;" "Beginning at the south west comer of the rev^^ Mr. Noah Mirick's Stone Wall which Encloseth his Garden and about Seven or eight rods west of Mr. Mirick's House, then northerly to a tree, then 7, 9," 11 rods to a tree near a run of water, "then 12, 22, 8, 11," 8 rods to a rock 6 feet west of a white oak Staddle Marked, then 9, 14, "9 rods at the comer of Daniel Wamer's New Pasture called his goat Pasture," then 17, "16 rods to a staddle, Thus far running northerly, from thence taking the weadth of said road in the propriety or Improvement of Isaac Brewer and mnning by such a point as to take in the whole weadth of s"^ road in the Propriety or Improvement of David Mirick where it comes into the West road or street" [Main Street] "by mnning near a west line 44 rods from s^ staddle to said street. 2 rods wide." This road, beginning at the west end, on the east side of Main Street, and about 3 or 4 rods north of the pres- ent road leading to Monson, was the original way to the Meet- ing House. It is now known as "Wade's, or Merrick's, Lane." It ran easterly 44 rods, then tumed southerly, crossing the pres- ent road to Monson, (about where Federal Lane enters the Monson road) and continuing on southerly to the Meeting House on Wigwam Hill. That part of the road north of the Monson road was discontinued, probably when the Mon- son road was laid out. The part south of Monson road was discontinued about 1870, and a new road, to take its place, made about 60 or 70 rods further to the east, from the present residence of C. C. Beebe to that of H. T. and C. P. Bolles. At a precinct meeting held "Mar. 19"' 1751, Voated and Granted to Nathaniel Bliss 5 shillings 4 pence Lawful money to be paid to the Rev^"^ Mr. Merrick's Negro." This payment may have been for sweeping the meeting house. On "Jan. 5, 62 The History of Wilbraham 1757, Voated & Granted to M^ Miricks Negro for fetching Clay from Town four pence three farthings." "Jan. 13 1752 Met at Meeting House and granted the Min- isters salary 41 pounds 18 shillings 4 pence lawful money, then adjourned to the Dwelling House of Moses Burt;" [probably it was cold at the meeting house] "then, Voated and Granted 53 pounds, 6 shillings, 8 pence lawful money towards the further finishing the meeting house," and, "Thomas Mirick, Stephen Stebbins, Daniel Cadwell, David Mirick & Nat' Warriner chosen a Committee to Lay out said money first in Ceiling and Plastering said Meeting House in order to make it warm and if there be any money Remaining to Lay it out in Procuring materials for the seats &c." "March 17, 1752, Voated & Granted to Nathaniel Hitchcock Eight shillings for service Don to y*^ buring yard". It will be remembered that he was chosen two years before to make the "burying yard Decent." A few years later it was voted to build a Stone Wall around the Burying Ground, which, we are very thankful now, was never done. A Committee was appointed to make a new agreement with Rev. Mr. Merrick in regard to his salary, December 24, 1750. It is evident that the committee found their task a hard one, for the market value of certain necessary articles of con- sumption fluctuated considerably and the "Old tenor" cur- rency depreciated so rapidly, that it was two years before they made their report. On January 9. 1753, they made the fol- lowing report: "The agreement of y^ Committee with y^ Rever"*^ M'' Noah Mirick upon y^ species on w'''' y^ Sallary for y^ year past was Stated is as follows: lb. s. p. Indian Corn at 15 s. p"" boshel — 31 — 5— Wheat at 30 s. " " — 34 — 1 — 10 Rey at 20 s. " « — 29 — 8— 2 Barley at 20 s. " " 31 — 5— Oats at 8 s. " " 25 Flax at 4 s. per lb. 36 — 6— 8 Beaf at Is. " " 25 Pork at 1 s. 6. per lb. 28 — 2— 6 £237— 9— 2 — 0. T. £37 with its discount 89 11 — 0. T. 326 — 10 — 1 — 0. jr. in Lawful money 43 — 10— 8 Signed by Noah Mirick, Thomas Mirick, Caleb Stebbins." The History of Wilbraham 63 The report was accepted and the precinct "Voated and Granted y^ Rev"^ Mr. Mirick his salary £ 43—10 s. 8 p. for past year." Also, "Voated that y^ foregoing vote be under- stood to mean from y^ 2pt December A. D. 1751 O. S." [old style] "to Jan^y y« 2"^ 1753 N. S." [new style] which makes a Compleat year & no more." Also, "Voated and Granted the sum of Ten pounds Lawful money for the further finishing y^ Meeting House and other Contingent Charges." And at many of the precinct meetings, in the ten years following, additional sums were granted "for the further finishing of the meeting house." Such was the house our fathers erected in their poverty for the honor and worship of God. This was their "hill of Zion," this their sanctuary. As they went up to worship, the broad expanse of the valley of the "Great River was spread out before them, from the mountains of Holyoke and Tom on the north, to the settlement at Hartford on the south. In the valley directly below them, the open fields of the early settlers were the first to greet their vision — the fields of Hitchcock and Burt and Brewer and Merrick and Warriner; and on to the west, over forests and meadows, and beyond the plains of the inward commons, could be seen the blue line of vapor, signalizing the homes of the earlier settlers in Springfield Street ; or the white cloud of fog lying low along the banks of the Great River. And beyond, more than twenty miles away, rose the blue ridges of the Green Mountains, tipped with gold in the sun- shine of the morning, veiled in purple in the evening; and when the frosts touched the forests in autumn, the red maple flamed among the trees; and the green of the pines and the yellow of the walnut caused the whole vast landscape to appear like a gorgeous carpet woven in the loom of the gods. The Lord's house was exalted upon the hills, and hither the tribes came up to worship. And when the Sabbath morning comes, Daniel Lamb and Sykes from the Bay Road, Chapin and Bliss and Bartlett, from on, and over, the mountain, Hitchcock and Burt, Brewer and Warriner and Warner and Merrick, from Main Street, and Badger and Skinner and Stebbins and Chapin and King, from the south part of the precinct, all wend their The History of Wilbraham 65 way, through the fields, and along the wood-land trails, and by obscure bridle-paths, and unworked highways, until the pro- cession, some on horse-back and some on foot — for now, as it was before, to Springfield, the young men and the maidens thought the walk most delightful, — all went on together up to the place of the sanctuary. They made their horses fast to the trees about the meeting house, and after such Christian inquiries of the neighbors whom they met there, for news of their households, and of the precinct, as their curiosity com- pelled and reverence could not restrain, they entered the sanctuary which they had erected for the worshi]j of the Lord." After they were as comfortably seated as possible on the benches, in such order as had been prescribed, the "Worthy Rev. Noah Mirick," with wig or powdered hair and cue, bands and small-clothes and silk stockings and shoe-buckles of silver, entered the house, the congregation all rising as a token of respect. He read a hymn, then handed the book over the top of the rough pulpit — for there was but one hymn-book in the precinct, and that was the minister's — to Deacon Nathaniel Warriner, who named the tune, gave the pitch, read one Hne of the h^aim, and commenced singing it; Warner and Brewer and Langdon and Stebbins and Moses and David and Hosea and Huldah and Jemima and Ruth following after, as ability and strength permitted; the deacon considerately, and as became the service of God's House, waiting, before he gave out another line, till the most dilatory had finished. When the hymn was ended, the minister solemnly prayed, the congregation all reverently rising. When the prayer was over, another hymn was sung in the same manner. Then the sermon was preached, not seldom interspersed with the twitter- ing of swallows above, or the crying of babies below. At last the benediction is pronounced, and the minister leaves the pulpit and passes out first, the congregation all standing, as when he entered. The famihes now gather about in groups to eat their frugal dinners from the logs and stumps which were abundant. 66 The History of Wilbraham The short intermission over, the afternoon service follows, similar in all respects to the morning; after which, Paul Lang- don again loads his marvellous wagon, [the only one at that time in the precinct] with his own family, and some of his neighbors, others mount their horses, and still others on foot, wend their way along the bridle-paths, and abandoned Indian trails on their homeward way. Some not reaching their habita- tions until the going down of the sun, all grateful that God has "cast their lines in pleasant places, and that they have a goodly heritage." Saturday evening is "kept" by these pioneers, and when the "chores" are done, and the sun is set, they are already "dressed," and ready to call upon their neighbors in a social, or more affectionate way. This practice of "keeping" Saturday evenings was followed in many families within my own recollection. I can remember the time when, if the older boys or young men had traps or snares set to capture the game in the forest, those traps and snares must all be sprung on Saturday afternoon, before the sun went down, and not reset until after sundown on Sabbath evenings. Even the wild creatures of the woods, on which some of the people partly depended for food, must have their "day of rest" from the pursuit of the hunter. I can remember, when a child, of standing on tiptoe at a west window of my home on Sabbath afternoons, watching and wishing and waiting for the sun to go down, and when the last vestige of its glowing form had finally disappeared behind the western hills, Oh! then, I could run and caper. We have drifted a long way from the strict "Sabbath keeping" of those not very distant days. In these times, when on the Sabbath day, the automobile and the motor-cycle go puffing and popping and tooting their horns and — smelling — along the highway at a speed anywhere from five to fifty miles an hour, when the man with the baseball bat is knocking at the church door, and the sweaters of the football team are only a Httle way in the distance, there are many who are seriously asking the question, "Haven't we drifted far enough?" "The Meeting House is occupied, but it is far from being The History of Wilbraham (57 finished; and the years until the incorporation of the town in 1763, are witness to earnest efforts to build pews and seats; to put in galleries, to plaster about the pulpit, to lay the gallery floor, to build seats in it, to plaster under it, and finally to plaster the house wholly in 1756, eight years after it was occupied for worship. On March 16th and 18th, 1756, the precinct meetings were held at the schoolhouse. Probably because the plastering and the "further finishing" of the meeting house were in progress; for I find that at the precinct meeting held January 5, 1757, it was "Voated and Granted to D" Nathaniel Warriner 1 pound 17 shillings for Money paid to Benj. Jones for plastering the Meeting House Nov. 1756 and for Keeping S'^ Jones & his horse and for some Nails & Labour about S^ Work." Also, "to Benonie Atchinson for Eight days and a half"* work about the Meeting House Fifteen Shillings. To Sam" Bartlett for 5 days and three quarters for work at the same place. 10 shillings, to Joseph Sikes for Twelve days & 3 quarters of him- self and for his Team better than a day Ditto twenty four shillings — To D" David Mirick for half a days work making scafolding for the plaisterer nine pence tw^o farthings." On "Mar. 24, 1760 the Parish Com. instructed to Repair the Roof of the Meeting House." Probably the five or six years that those "Good Sedar Shingles" had lain on "Pine Hill," had not increased their wearing qualities. But the finishing of the meeting house was an easy thing to do compared with the difficulty of "seating" it. As there were no pews built for the first five years, there was no "seating" of the congregation. But afterwards, we know that it was customary to "seat" persons in order of their age, or of civil or military dignity. The eldest persons being assigned to the best, or highest pew — for the highest pew in honor was often far from being best in posi- tion. Generally only heads of families occupied the pews on the floor of the house. The young men and maidens, the boys and the girls, were "seated" in the gallery, after it was so far finished that it could be occupied, and where the services of the 68 The History of Wilbraham Lord's house were not always visible and sometimes hardly audible. In 1753, a committee was chosen to "seat the Meeting House." They reported and their "report was Excepted," but was not recorded. Persons were often dissatisfied with the seats assigned them, and frequently, sometimes within a few weeks, another committee would be chosen to "Rectify the mistakes of the former committee, to Dignifie the seats, and seat said Meeting House a New." At a precinct meeting on "Jan. P' A. Do'". 1760. Voted to seat the Meeting House anew" [committee of nine chosen] "according to their best Discretion. Saving y"^ men & women are to be Seated together. ' ' The report of this committee is recorded, and here we have, for the first time, the names of the families in the precinct. It will be noticed that the names of the deacons are not given. They doubtless occupied what was known as "The Deacons' Seat." It will also be observed that in "Pew No. 2"^," is seated the wives of the two deacons, and "The Widow Mary Mirick." She was probably the widow of Deacon David Mirick, who had died about three years previous. At later "seatings," after giving the names of the men for each pew, the report reads "and their wives with them." The first Seating of the Meeting House that was recorded: 1760 ' ' We the Subscribers being Chosen a Committee at a Meeting in the Fourth Precinct in Springfield Held Ja" P"^ 1760 To Seat The Meeting House in S^ Precinct and to make Return of our Doings at y^ Adjournment of Said Meeting y^ 22^ of S*^ Jan" Instant — We according mett and Seated y^ fore S^ House In the manner Following, and now Offer it to your Consideration for acceptance — Viz In the Fore Seat of the Bodv In the Pew N°. 1st — Lt Paul Langdon Thos Glover— Nath' Hitchcock & Nath' Bliss Isaac Colton Benj" Warriner Simeon Willard John Jones: In the Pew N°. 3^ — Noah Alvard & The Wid^. Mercy John Hitchcock L" Henry Chapin Bartlett the oposite Side — ! Abner Chapin & Lewis Langdon. In The Second Seat— ' In the Pew No. 14th— John Steel Ezekiel Russell — and Sam' Bartlet Benoni Atchason Jabes Hendrick Henry Badger & Willm Stacey The History of Wilbraham 69 In the Pew N". 4 — Paul Langdon John Bliss and the Widw Hannah Skinner In the Pew N". 13th— Moses Colton & Ezra Barker — In the Pew N°. 2d— Dec" Nath' Warriner^ Wife Dec" Sam' Days Wife, The Widow Mary Mirick — In the Pew No. 20th— L" Thos. Mirick Ens" Abel Bliss and Sergt Moses Burt — In the Pew N". IQth- Dan' Warner Moses Warriner and Sergt Dan' Cadwell — In the Pew N". S^^— Sergt W"! King Stephen Stebbins Caleb Stebbins & Dan' Lamb. In the Pew No. 9— Sam' Warner Moses Bartlet Jontti Ely & Isaac Brewer In the Pew N". 21st Benj" Skinner John Langdon Philip Lyon & Hannah Langdon In the Pew No. Igtii- James Twing Benj" Warriner Jun"" and Stephen Bliss — In the Pew No. 5th — Sam' Warriner Dan' Cadwell Jun'' and The Wid"' Sarah Warriner In the Pew No. 12— Nath' Hitchcock Jun^ Moses Alvard and Timothy Wright — In the Pew No. 22^- Noah Bowker Henry Wright — and Sam' Warner Jun'' — In the Pew No. 23d— Sergt Aaron Stebbins Aaron Steb- bins and James Warriner. In the Pew No. 16th David Warriner Joseph Sikes and Moses Stebbins In the Pew N". 6th Stephen Colton Silas Hitchcock and Isaac Osborn: — In the Fore Seat in the Front Jesse Warner Timo. Mirick Mathew Cadwell Phineas Stebbins Abel Bliss Moses Burt Jun-" & Enos Stebbins — In the Fore Seat in ye Upper T"" Elijah Wright Joel Atchason Benoni Atchason Thos. Jones Nath' Bliss Jun'' Caleb Stebbins Junr and Zadock Stebbins — In the Pew No. 17th— Oliver Bliss Aaron Bliss: and Comfort Chafie — In the Pew No. 11— Aaron Alvard Reuben Webb — Noah Lamb Eldad Stebbins Joel Bliss Ebenr. Cadwell and Aaron Warriner. Fore Seat Middle Tear Eunice Warriner — Roda — Warner — Esther Day — Miriam Bartlet — ■ Jemima Bliss — and Elisabeth Badger — Second Seat in the Front Eunice Cadwell Eunice Mirick Elizabeth Warner Eunice Steb- bins Esther Ely Eunice Stebbins &- Lois Mirick In ye fore Seat in ye Middle Tear Jacob Warriner Israel Warriner David Warriner Jun'' Isaac Brewer Jun"". Moses Warriner Zenas Jones Moses Bartlet Jun^. & W'" King Jun--. In the Second Seat in the Front Sam' Day Jun"-. Silas Bliss:— Joseph Sikes & Will"" Barnes Female Side Fore Seat Front Martha Day Orpha Day — Ann Cadwell Mary Mirick Phebe Willard & Sarah Lamb— 70 The History of Wilbraham Fore Seat in the Upper Qr Tabitha Day Dorcas Frost Elisabeth Alvard Mary Warner Ruth Stebbins EHsabeth Brooks Eunice Brewer Hannah Colton — Second Seat Upper Quarter Ann Badger Mercy Atchason Rebecka Stebbins and Martha Lamb — Signal — by — us — Samuel Day Nath' Warriner Thos Mirick Dani Warner Dan' Cadwell Stephen Stebbins Jonathan Ely Aaron Stebbins Will"! King Commtee" This "seating" was so unsatisfactory that another committee of nine was chosen, about three months later, "to "seat" the meeting house anew." On March 24, 1761, the precinct "Voted that the present owners of the first Tear of Pews in the Body of the Meeting House alter the place of their Pew Doors of their Respective Pews at their own Cost if they please." Of the record of the "seating" of the meeting house in 1760, the Stebbins history says: "There are seventy-three men and six widows named, who are presumed to be heads of families, and who occupy pews and seats on the lower floor. Of these, twenty one are from what is now the South Parish." [Now Hampden] "In the galleries there are seated twenty six young men and thirty one young women, fifty seven in all. We shall not be far from the truth, therefore, if we estimate the whole population of the precinct at this time at three hundred and fifty per- sons." Another very important subject, and difficult to manage, was the disposal which should be made of both the ' ' Ministry Lot" and the Overplus Land, a part of which, that the south side of the Middle Division, on which the Rev. Mr. Merrick's house stood, had been sold, or set to him, as the settlement accorded to the first settled minister of the precinct; but that on the south side of the Third Division, where the Langdons had settled, was still the common property of all the pro- prietors, and of course in part that of the precinct, as the "Ministry Lot" was by supposition a proprietor. As there were two " Ministry Lots" within the bounds of the precinct, — the one in the Middle or Second Division, No. 38, running across The History of Wilbraham 71 the precinct from east to west, and about one-half mile south of the Chicopee River, on our Main Street, and the other. No. 64, about one mile south of the present south line of our town. As these "lots" were the common property of the town of Springfield, and hence of the other precincts, Springfield, West Springfield, and Longmeadow, each had a right to a propor- tionate share of their value, it was no easy task to satisfy, in any considerable degree, any of the parties. At last, however, this was arranged, after repeated con- ferences of committees and years of discussion and concession. When the precinct was incorporated as a town, the two ministry and school lots in the precinct were set to the town of Wilbra- ham, so that the interests of the other precincts in them were ended. The income of the money obtained from the sale of these "ministry lots," is part of the fund for the support of the ministry which the two original church societies of the "stand- ing order" now have. By repeated conferences and compromises, the claims of Rev. Mr. Merrick to all the "Overplus Land of the Middle or Second Division, about six hundred and fifty acres, were so disposed of as to leave him a large and valuable farm, and the larger sympathy of his people. It is probable that troubles arising out of Mr. Merrick's claims to so much land, which necessarily brought him into antagonism with many of his people, and the difficulty in arranging his salary, which for some years was based on the prices of certain commodities, were the cause of some church troubles which arose about 1754. At a precinct meeting held May 10, 1754, the following votes were passed; "Voated and Granted the sum of five Pounds Lawfull Money for defraying the Charges of Entertaining the Counsel to set in this Place on ye 17th Qf j^ne next," also, "Voated and Granted to Dea. Nathaniel Warriner the sum of ten shillings Lawful Money for Keeping the former Counsel." There is no record in the pre- cinct or church books of the calling of this former Counsel," nor of the proceedings of either, but the following is copied from the church record of that time: 72 The History of Wilbraham "June 21: 1754. Step*^ Stebbins, Aaron Stebbins, Lewis Langdon, & Abner Chapin, made publick confession of y"" guilt, in absenting from y^ Lords table, and publickly Exhibit- ing ag' y^ Pastor a paper of Reproachful Charges. — "Dan" Cadwell, Henry Badger, W" Stacy & Moses Steb- bins, made publick Confession of y'' guilt in publickly Exhibiting a paper of Reproachful Charges ag^' y^ Pastor. — "Nath" Hitchcock made publick Confession of his guilt, in casting Diverse Slanderous aspersions upon y^ Character of y^ Pastor without any just and sufficient ground ; and in absenting from y^ Lords table; and in signing a paper of Reproachful Charges ag' y^ Pastor. — "N. B. All y^ above mentioned persons, upon making y'' respective Confessions, were accepted by y^ C*^^. "June 23: 1754 Isaac Brewer made publick Confession of his offense, in absenting himself from y^ Lords table. — and was accepted. — " It is very probable that the "counsels" mentioned, had something to do with this difficulty. At the precinct meeting, December 31, 1753, after voting the minister's salary, 44 p. 18 s. 2 p. the precinct, "Voated and Granted to S'^ Mirick twelve shillings & eight pence one farthing Excepted as Rearages of all his salary for the time past." i\lso, "Voated and Granted to said Mr. Mirick two pounds seaven shillings and five pence one farthing for his Boarding Mr. Kirtland." [I have the impression that "Mr. Kirtland" was a singing master.] January 5, 1756, there was an article in the warrant for the precinct meeting, "Article 4. to know the minds of the Precinct Relating to Singing & what versions of the Psalms shall be sung in the Public Worship." There was no action under this article, but the question came up again and again. Our ancestors, though so engaged in the establishment of their reHgious institutions, did not forget their schools. The town of Springfield commenced to make appropriations for schools in the "Outward Commons, on the east side of the Great River, commonly called the Mountains," as early as 1737, and every year thereafter until 1763, when the town was incorporated, beginning with the year 1737, when the amount The History of Wilbraha.m 73 was 3 pounds and increasing year by year until 1749, when the amount was 35 pounds old tenor, which was at 75 per. cent discount, or more. In 1750 the amount was 4 pounds 13 shillings 4 pence, lawful money, and the same amount for the years 1751, 1752, 1753, 1754, and 6 pounds 16. S. 7 p. 1 farthing for the year 1755. For the next eight years the total amount raised is given, but the sum allowed the fourth precinct is not stated. On November 8, 1752, the town of Springfield elected a com- mittee of three "to Examine the Circumstances of the Inhabi- tants of the Mountain Parish with Respect to the Towns SCHOOL HOUSE NOW STANDING IN PRESENT TOWN OF HAMPDEN. Erected about 1790. Granting them a sum of money towards Defraying the Charge of building the School House already built in said Parish & make Report at this meeting." On November 4, 1754, a com- mittee was chosen "to view and Consider the more proper Place or Places for School Houses to be built in the Mountain Parish & what sum is Proper to allow said Inhabitants for the School House already built there, and s^ com*"*^ are directed to make report as soon as may be." At another meeting, held twenty days later, the town "Granted the sum of 6 pounds to be paid to Ens" James Warriner For and Towards the Charge of Building the school House lately built at the Mountain Parish so Called and to be by him repaid to the Several Persons 74 The History of Wilbraham who were at the Expense of building the Same in Equal Propor- tion according to what they Severally advanc"^ for that purpose they certifying to him what each advanc'^ and what they are severally to Receive out of the said Sum therefore." So it seems that a school house had been erected in the outward commons, or fourth precinct, previous to November 8, 1752. It is said to have stood on the west side of Main Street, some twenty or thirty rods south of our present Springfield Street and nearly opposite where the present Congregational Meeting House stands. The name and fame of the early teacher, for years town and Parish Clerk, Ezra Barker, usually called Master Barker, have come down to us bearing a multitude of traditions of his wit and of his rod, of the pranks of the boys and the tricks of the girls, some true, some probable. That he was a good penman the records of both town and parish testify, and any- one who is called to search the records of those days, owes him a debt of gratitude for the clear and legible manner in which he did the work. And in this connection it may be said that the writing of James Warriner, who was also town and parish clerk for a number of years, about the same time, is very legible and easy to read, after more than a hundred years. A few roads were laid out by the town of Springfield within the precinct, and some by the county; but they were mere cart- or bridle paths leading from one neighborhood and clearing to another. No work appears to have been done on them but to pick out a few stones, make crossings over a few brooks, and cut away the trees and bushes when they intruded too closely on the path. The Bay Road was subject to some changes and alterations. Some of the names given to localities are of interest to us today. On May 3"^ 1732, some changes were made in it. The main thing that we are interested in is, that as the surveyors came along from the east, they passed through the "Elbows or Kingstown" [that portion of our town lying north of the bay road, and east of Chicopee River], and the surveyors go on to say — "and to keep the path as it now goeth along by Nine Mile Pond into]|^Springfield. " Also, in 1744, some other changes were made. [I have abbreviated the record.] Highway Spring- The History of Wilhraham 75 field to Kingston, by nine mile pond. "That the Road begin at the Old Road on the easterly side of said Pond and extending thence easterly 4 rods wide, thence East 2 Deg 30, So. 31 rods, thence East 3 Deg. 30. So. 39 rods to a rock and stones on it, thence east 3 d. No. 493^ rods to a stump and stones near Lambs Door, thence east, 9 d. so. 34 rods to a small white oak marked — which road is running through the school lot." In 1755, the town of Springfield laid out a "highway from the parting of the Paths against Goose Pond" [now Winchester Square] "to the Outward Commons," [vev^r much abbreviated until the present west line of Wilbraham is reached] "to the east side the brook at Stone Pitt" [perhaps now, Watershops Pond, or the small brook about one-half mile further west], "then — to Mr. James Warriners fence — to Warriner's Bridge — to the northwest comer of a scheme lot laid out to Samuel Warner 2"'> then east 80 rods to the meadow at Kilbom's Bridge, then east 14 rods to the east side the causeway then east 20 rods— by David Jones house, then 12 rods, then 20 rods to a heap stones, then north 45° east 4 rods then 14 rods, then east 83^ rods to the outward commons." [The variations from due east are not given here.] This is our present highway from the Centre Village to Springfield, west of the line of the outward commons, now called Springfield Street, and this record is principally interesting because of the names given to localities, such as, "Stone Pitt," "Warriner's Bridge," "Kilbom's Bridge," and "David Jones house." The two last are in our town. "Kilbom's Bridge" was at the crossing of the most westerly brook, on that road, in our town. The meadow, through which the brook mns, is often called in the early records, "Worlds End Meadow," and the brook "Worlds End Brook." The brook is called by that name in the record of the "Newbury Survey" in 1729. We also leam where David Jones lived in 1755. Evidently the good people of Springfield, in those early days, thought they were a long way from home, when they got out to "Worlds End Meadow." It is somewhat singular that four of the brooks we cross, as we go along Springfield Street westward, are the same brook, although the first one, west of 76 The History or Wilbraham Main Street, is only a branch which runs into "Pole Bridge Brook" before it reaches West Street, which street it crosses 50 or 60 rods north of the "Tinkham Road," and continuing on westward 50 or 75 rods, turns to the northward and again crosses Springfield Street about one-fourth of a mile east of our west bounds. The brook continues on northerly, then westerly, then southerly until it flows into the Watershops Pond. Some of us remember when there was a broad meadow where the pond now is, and when we drove through the brook there to water our teams. It seems, from the early records, that there were milestones set along the Bay Road to indicate the distance from Boston. I find this in the record of an alteration made in that road in 1777. The surveyors, going eastward, mention a stone marked 89 miles from Boston, and then say, " — just by Cornelius Webb's old Chimney about 2 rods north east of the stone marked 88 miles from Boston." It may not be known now, to all of our townsmen, that the Bay Road, after passing Nine Mile Pond, continued along easterly, crossing Main Street and continuing along what is now called Maple Street, past the Grace Church and on up the hill south easterly, to compara- tively level ground, where it again turned easterly, going on down the hill by a course which is quite plain to be traced today, and entering the present road a little west of "Eleven Mile Brook," [frequently called twelve mile brook]. As the time passed the agricultural products of the precinct were becoming more various and more abundant ; the cultivated fields were growing broader and richer every year. The houses were more convenient and more comfortable. Still there was little which would gratify the tastes or supply what would now be called the necessaries of a comfortable home. Bare walls, bare floors, scant furniture, the oaken table and chest and pine "settle" were the chief adomings of the houses in those days, with perhaps a few exceptions. Among these was that of Ensign Abel Bliss, who, as tradition says, "did carry six bushels of salt on his back all at one time." As I have already said, he built The History of Wilbraham 77 his log house on the west side of the mountain, or Ridge road, on an elevated portion of his farm, about 1736. At about the same time he set out an apple orchard. The difificulty of getting water on the elevated ground induced him to change his loca- tion to a place a little north of the most northerly brook which crosses that road, and to its east side. He was a man of great energy, like so many of those early settlers, and erected a "tar- kiln" on the "river lot," and is said to have gathered pine-knots and hearts, called candle-wood, with which our great grand- fathers and great grandmothers illuminated their dwellings, in the south part of Ludlow and Belchertown, — it being forbidden to gather them but for lights in the precinct — and made two hundred barrels of tar, which he sold for, what would now be, five dollars a barrel, reaHzing one thousand dollars, and in 1744 began to erect a large two-story house 32 x 40 feet. The plan was so pretentious that it is said the Rev. Noah Merrick, ascertaining what a grand mansion his parishioner w^as about to build, and perhaps fearing that his people were becoming inflated with worldly pride, thought it incumbent on him to check such tendencies at the beginning. So on a Sunday morning, he took for the text of his sermon the words, "Build not your house too high." Whereupon the rebuked Abel cut off the upright posts of his house seven inches, lowering the first story that much. The text in question caused a great rustling of Bible leaves throughout the parish, and there was much discussion as to where in the Holy Word the minister had found such a text. Finally some inquisitive person began to search the catechism, and the mystery was solved. The house is said to have been the first in this section to ha\'e square panes of glass in the windows, all the others having diamond shaped panes. There is a quaint story in connection with this place which was told me, a few years ago, by a woman who was told the story by her grandmother, who was living near there at the time the incident happened. An Indian chief had brought his son there to be taught the white man's ways by the Bliss family, and instructed somewhat in book "laming." The family had a large dog named "Pomp" which was a great playmate for 78 The History of Wilbraham the boys. One day the Indian boy was told to go out into the orchard and bring in some apples, from a particular tree, for baking. Every instinct of his nature, from his early training, rebelled at the thought of doing such "squaw's work." An hour or two passed and there were no apples brought. When remonstrated with by Mr. Bliss for his neglect to obey, he drew himself up to his full height and answered with great dignity, "Let Pomp pick up apples." Later in the day, when one of the girls of the family asked him to show her where that par- ticular tree was, so that she might get some, he led her all around the orchard before bringing her to the right tree, which was not very far from the house. Taking his revenge in that way for the indignity put upon him. This place, now known as the "Speer Place," has been in the same family for about one hundred and seventy-seven years. It descended from Abel to his son Oliver, from Oliver to his son John, from John to his daughter Catherine Mary Ann Antoinette (Bliss) Speer. She told me once, that she thought she was named after all her aunts. She also told me she had heard her father say that when he was a boy, he went out to the Bay Road and was honored with a bow from General Washington, as the General was passing along the road on the way to Boston. General Washington, writing in his diary about his passing along the Bay Road at that place says, "it was rough and rocky." Probably it was, on the part now abandoned. There are reports that the house was once a tavern, and that Washington spent a night there. But I do not think it was so. It is said in the Stebbins History that there were no inhabi- tants in the south part of the precinct, previous to 1741. In that year, Stephen Stebbins came from Longmeadow and settled on the west side of the main road to Somers, a few rods north of the Scantic, where Mortimer Pease now lives. Aaron Stebbins, his brother, built a little north of the present school- house near there. These were brothers of Samuel, who had settled "Some years before, as I have said, on the "Stebbins Road." The History of Wilbraham 79 In the year 1743, Israel Kibbe of Somers, my great-great- grandfather [on my mother's side], purchased quite a piece of land near the southwest comer of the precinct, and in 1764 he sold that, with some more land, to his son, my great-grandfather, Gideon Kibbe, who lived there about thirty years, when he moved to the Baptist District in East Longmeadow. About the year 1810 he built the house on the east side of our Main Street, now standing, about ten or fifteen rods north of Federal Lane (where Mr. Bryant now lives), for his son. Dr. Gideon Kibbe, who followed his profession here for almost fifty years, and is still remembered by some of our older resi- dents. He wished me to be a physician, and in 1853, when I was nine years old, he prevailed upon my mother [his niece], to allow me to come and live with him, and since then Wilbraham has been my home. The doctor's father was a lieutenant in two different regiments in the Revolutionary War, and I have the powder horn which he carried while in the service. It is finely ornamented with etchings, made I suppose with his Jack-knife, of several different designs, among which are the masonic emblems of the square and compasses, also the date "1776," and his initals, G. K., cut in the bottom. As we approach the close of the precinct period of our town, the record contains the account of the sad tragedy of the death of Lieutenant Mirrick's son. Faithful "Clark" Warner records as follows: "No. 84, Timothy Mirrick, the son of L*^ Thomas and Mary Mirrick was bit by a ratel snake on August the 7^^, 1761, and died within about two or three ours, he being 22 years, two months and three days old and vary near the point of marridg." The place where this young man lived is now the most south- erly place in our town, on the Main Street, and is owned by Ethelbert Bliss. The meadow where he was mowing when bitten, is off to the southwest, some seventy to ninety rods from the home of Mr. Bliss [in 1863 the place was owned by Porter Cross] • and the tragic spot can be plainly seen from 80 The History of Wilbraham the Sessions homestead, about half a mile farther south, [now owned by Mr. Hayes]. About forty years ago, William V. Sessions, who was bom in 1801, showed me the place, and said that the summer of 1761 was very dry and it was supposed that the serpent had come down from "Rattlesnake Peak," on the mountain, where there were known to be a few, to the meadow, in search of water. He also told me that a search for the snake was made the next OLD MERRICK HOUSE. Built in 17tjl for the young man "vary near the point of marridg." day, and it was found coiled up near the seythe of }'oung Timothy, and was killed. The house which was being built for the young man, so near the ' ' point of marridg ' ' is still standing on the east side of the road and is occupied by Walter Bliss. The front is two stories high, but the rear has the long steeply pitched roof slanting down to quite near the grovmd, in old-time fashion. The History of Wilbraham SI Extensive changes have been made in the looks of the house in the past year, by building a piazza across the front. A poem was written on this sad event, which has had a wide circulation. In the Stebbins History it is called the great "Elegy of the Mountains." There are many versions of this old ballad. I give the one printed in the Stebbins History. ELEGY OF THE YOUNG MAN BITTEN BY A RATTLESNAKE On Springfield mountains there did dwell A likely youth who was knowne full well Lieutenant Mirick onley sone A likely youth nigh twenty one One friday morning he did go in to the medow and did moe A round or two then he did feal A pisin sarpent at his heal When he received his dedly wond he dropt his sithe a pon the ground And strate for home wase his intent Caling aloude stil as he went tho all around his voys wase hered but none of his friends to him apiere they thot it wase some workmen calld and there poor Timothy alone must fall So soon his Carful father went to seak his son with discontent and there his fond onley son he found ded as a stone a pon the ground And there he lay down sopose to rest with both his hands Acrost his brest his mouth and eyes Closed fast And there poor man he slept his last 82 The History of Wilbraham his father vieude his track with great consam Where he had ran across the com uneven tracks where he did go did apear to stagger to and frow The seventh of August sixty one this fatal axsident was done Let this a warning be to all to be Prepared when God does call ' ' This poem was read at a banquet in Springfield in May, 1886, and printed in the Springfield Republican June 6, 1886. It was again printed on Nov. 23, 1911, with an article written by Miss Evanore O. Beebe of our town, descriptive of the event, and the scenes surrounding it. This last insertion brought six or more letters to the Republican, one each from Salem, Mass., Greele^^ Col., West Suffield, Conn., Bridgeport, Conn., Green- field, Mass., and Virginia City, Nev. The letter from Nevada is especially interesting, as it was written by the great-great-grandson of a brother of George Washington, and is as follows: "That 'Springfield Mountain' song got down into old Vir- ginia. It used to be sung to me by the negroes when I was a child. They used a sort of whining refrain that was most striking and amusing. This is what I remember of it: — ' ' One dreadful day John went away For to help his father make the hay ; When just as the horn blew for the noonday meal 'A pisenous sarpient' bit him on the heel. "With a rigdum ski skinny drigdum rowe. (Chorus repeated several times) "Then Mollie, his sweetheart, came along and found John dying, and this is what she is supposed to have said: — " 'Oh, John! Oh, John, why did you go Down to the meadow for to mow ? ' 'Oh, Mollie dear, I thought you knowed. It was father's hay and must be mowed.' " The History of Wilbraham 83 There was a version which I think was sung here at an ' ' Old Folks' Concert," about forty-five years ago. It was sung as a solo, and all the trovipe joined in the chorus. On Springfield mountain there did dwell A nice young man, I knew him well. Sing Tu-ri-lu ri-tu-ri-lay, Sing Tu-ri-lu ri-tu-ri-lay. On Monday morning he did go Down to the meadow for to mow, (Chorus) He scarce had mowed half round the field, When a pesky sarpent bit his heel. (Chorus) He raised his scythe and struck a blow Which laid the pesky sarpent low. (Chorus) He took the sarpent in his hand And posted off to Molly Brand. (Chorus) "Oh, Johnny dear, why did you go Down to the meadow for to mow ? ' ' (Chorus) "Oh, Molly dear, I thought you knowed T'was fathers field and must be mowed." (Chorus) Now this young man gave up the ghost And did to Abraham's bosom post. (Chorus) 84 The History of Wilbraham And thus he cried as up he went, "Oh, pesky, cruel sar-pi-ent!" (Chorus) Now all young men a warning take. Beware of the bite of a great big snake." (Chorus) I think sometimes the chorus was: Singing tu-ral-li-lu-ral-li-lu-ral-li-lay, Singing tu-ral-li-lu-ral-li-lu-ral-li-lay . Altogether I have seen seven or eight versions of this famous ballad, generally written just as the writers remembered to have heard their grandfathers, or grandmothers sing, or repeat it, a good many years ago. In one of the versions there is still another touch of sadness, as follows: "Then Molly Bland she squatted down And sucked the pizen from the wound, But, O ! she had a rotten tooth. And the venom soon affected both." The name, or the residence, of the author of this famous poem are alike unknown. The Stebbins History says, that "Nathan Torrey has the honor of authorship, if any reliance can be placed upon the most direct and authentic tradition on the subject." The grave of the unfortunate young man is in the Deacon Adams Cemetery, near the easterly part of the older portion. His epitaph reads: — "Here lies ve body of Mr. Timothy Mirick Son of Lieut Thomas and Mrs. Mary Mirick Who died August 7'^ 1761 in ye 23'^'^ year of his age "He Cometh forth like a flower and is cut down He fieeth also as a shadow and continueth not." The History of Wilbraham 85 OLD MERRICK HOUSE, REMODELED IN 1913. Present home of Walter Bliss. The military eclipsed the literary renown of this period. Capt. Samuel Day, Lieut. Thomas Merrick, and Ensign Abel BHss were commissioned as officers before 1754; and for the French War, which raged during this period, 1755-1760, twenty- two men were enlisted from the fourth precinct as among the patriots of that early period. The names are all entered as from Springfield, but the following were probably from what is now Wilbraham: In 1755, for three months, John Langdon, Timothy Wright, PhiHp Lyon, William King, Jr.; in 1755, for eight months, Sergt. Daniel Cadwell, vSergt. Paul Langdon, Corp. Isaac Colton, Corp Aaron Bliss, Aaron Alvord, Aaron Warriner, Stephen Bliss, Jesse Warner, Aaron Parsons, Benjamin War- riner, Samuel Warner, Benjamin Wright. They were in the battle near the southern extremity of Lake George, with Baron Dieskau, and Lieutenant Burt of the company was killed; In 86 The History of Wilbraham 1759, Benoni Atchinson, Moses Bartlett, Thomas Dunham, Paul Hitchcock, Samuel Warner, Sr., Samuel Warner, Jr., Moses Warriner. Samuel Warner, Sr., who is the so-called "Clark" Warner, kept a Journal of this expedition, which is still in existence and from which I will make a few extracts. He was in Capt. John Bancroft's Company, and Col. Timothy Ruggles's Regiment. I will commence with the brief account he gives of the trip from Albany to Fort Edward. "I now give an a Coumpt of our March from Albana to fort Edward. We loaded 19 Barrils of flower and pork in a batoo and Carrid them within three miles of Still warter and there on Looded in the hull of our Regiment there was about 1100 Barrils and then we went to Still warters and Looded 25 Barrils in Each Battoo which made about 1400 and Carrid them up to about a mile above Sototoga and onloded the Same and then went about one mile and then Looded 22 Barrils which made 1300 and Carrid them to the fott of the falls at fort miller onloded . them there the Batoos was caried about half a mile and the provision and then Looded againe 20 Barils 1150 and Carrid them to fort Edward this is a treu acount a \^arey hard voige we had. frey Day 8"^ Day (June) this Day varey Clowday. Ran and Cold in the morning and afterwards more moderate and Sun Shine. Varey Cold att Night and just in the morning We had a varey grate Larrom by the polesy of the jeneral amhers[t] ordered a party of men att the falls to fier there guns att a marke varey Brisk on purpos to See what Readynes the armey would Be in the armey was all Drawd up in arms. "Sabday 10"^ this day 6 o'clock the hilanders fierd one Round Distinct one after a nither and a fare plesant Day after- wards our soldiers went to Battooing onley saveing the quarter guard and a few that was not well. "Thosday 14*^ This morning there was two Rodeisland men whipt for Desart one of them 500 the other 999 this day is the first prayer we heard at Night. "Saturday 16"" this Day there was one of the Conecticots Brought to place of Execution in order to be shot to Death for Desartion & after giving warning to others and then makeing of a prayer he was placst upon his Knees & his cap over his face Reseved a pardon yesterday and to day we Looded about 300 Batoos and they was carrid to half way Boock and 100 teems. The History of Wilbraham 87 "Monday 18"' this morning I was put under gard. "Tuesday 19 a Cort Marshil upon a young man and Rise & myself to-day for Nothin worth a menshing the young man Becas his gun went of upon half Bent and myself Becase I did not goo So quick and Call my sun when Sergeant Daniel Miller Bid me goo I Being upon other Duty the same time yet I went Not Withstanding But I had my dismisshon without any thing more said to me. "Thursday 2P' this Day we marcht from fort Edward with about ten Reigements we struck our tents about brake of Day slong our packs about Sun Rise and stood with y"" on a full ouer then marcht forward Nor onlooded Nor Rested till we got within five miles of Lake gorge there Rested about one ouer and half varey hot men allmost Beet out By going without vittuals in the morning about 500 teems and wagins the officers had no packs the general and other big officers had horsis and Servens they did not Consider the poor solders Had they Had any Com- passhoon upon poore Solders they wood not a dun as they Did one man Dyed By Reson of Such Hard traveling and Drinking of warter this was a Conectucut man and two or three more it was said they ware a Dying the armey was marcht of in the morning on a sudden and had not time to git any Refreshment to Carey with them But God in His providence has spared men's Lives & Carrid threw heathen to we shall not Dey Before our time. "Sabday 17"^ there was a flagg of truse Came in to half way Bruck to see whether we had any prreasners to Exchang. "Tuesday 26 this Day order Came out in general that No solder should drink any warter without it Being Boild Except he had ginger in it. "Wensday 27 Benoney atchinson and Isaac Whittemore Come here to Day. "Sabday July P' Orders Came out that every one of us shoold fix a wooden flint in his gun two Capt Came in this Day from the french " Munda}' 2*^ about ten o'clock in the morning a partey of about 60 of the inemy fell on a party of the gersey Bleu and Kild 8 and scalpt them upon the Spot and wounded 3 more this was in full \'iew of our armey a more protickular a compt there was 18 of the garsey bleu went to git Bare one the North of our Camps and thare was it was soposed about three or five score of the inemy got Between our men and the gard "Saturday 7^^ I went about the Element Hill on the North End of it there is a fort of 14 squares or turns in it made with 88 The History of Wilbraham wood and stoane and a Horspottal of Stoane the Length about 8 Roods the wedth about Eighteen feet from out side to out side the thickness of the Wale two feet and Yi the hith about five feet. "Sabday 8'*^ three men Belonging to Co^' Whiteens Ri"it Dyed in one Horspiteetel this Day was a Varey grate Day of Blooing of Rocks. "Munday 9'^ We have the News of gen' Woolfs takeing of some strong place up Canaday River this Day there came in a party of the Indions under the command of Capt Jacob that went down the Lake some Days ago tis said the Indias fel on him & wounded y*^ Cap'' and another of his men. I tuck more observation of Buldings and in sted of one Hospotitel there is three more all in a few Roods of one a nither one stoon two wood Housen. "Saterday 2P' this day the armey marcht for ticonderoga they struck there tents about three o'clok in the morning and about sun rise the Bigest part of the armey got to the warter side they Borded three Batoos about Sun an ouer and half high and set of about twelve o'clock they ware out of sight and they Cep a going of all the Day afterwards 10-20-30 Batoos to a time till sun one ouer and ^ high att night then the Sloop set sail and att Sun Down she was about 15 miles of tis soposed to be 12000 men 15 morters 12.12 pounders 6.24 pounders of Brase 3 18 pounders of Iron & a grate numbere of swivels this Day there is a grate morning among the Wiming as if they had Lost there Husboms "Thusday [August] 2*^ this day 12 o'clock news came that crown point was Blown up By the french the truth I will waight for Esq Woodbridge says it is treu without fail and the french are a fortifying about ten or 15 miles Beyond. "Teusday 7'*^ By the Reson of the Heat the Injineare and two or three more ware Carid from thare work to thare tents and I ware varey much put to it to keep upon my Leegs. "Munday 3^^ [September] Rain the bigest part of the day and y*^ co" said Dam it you shall work so we Did and it rained all night. "Saterday 15'*" about one o'clock had orders to march to crown point and about dark I sot of for the same with 30 men. "Sabday 16"" morning we landed att tyconde Roga Before Sun Rise and then marcht Right of to crown point and got there Sun two ours high "Thosday P'^ [November] Last Night a Number of men The History of Wilbraham 89 under gard for tempting to goo hum and to Day a member of the garsey Blews under gard but Dismist to Day. "Sabday 25'^ [17 Days lost of the Journal] ground frose hard We marched to Davises fort and campt there. "Munday 26'*' cold and snow and hold to while noon then Rain. We marched to Northfield and Lay there Capt putnam of Rode Island Dyed att "Teusday 27"^ Cold Rainy Day I marcht from Northfield to Sunderland I logged at Carsons Warner's. "Wensday 28'^ This Day fare and plesant morning and south winds varey raw afterwards I went from Sunderland to my one hous this day." The distance of the precinct from Springfield Street, the regu- larly increasing population, the different interests of the people, and their demonstrated capacity to administer affairs, prompted the inhabitants as early as January 16, 1749, "to chuse three men [David Mirick, Isaac Brewer and Nathaniel Warriner] a Committee to Represent the Precinct to the town of vSpringfield in taking some measures to get set off for a town in this fourth Precinct." The action of the town of Springfield was un- f a\^orable to their cause ; and they delayed further attempts till December 31, 1753, four years, when they again "voated to chuse a committee [Dea. Nathaniel Warriner, David Mirick and L'. Sam" Day] to apply to the town of Springfield to see if they be willing we should be set of a District." Nothing seems to have come of this petition, for I find an article — on which, however no action seems to have been taken — inserted in the warrant for a meeting, January 1, 1760, "To chuse a Committee to apply to the town to set us of to be a District." Again January 1, 1761, it is "voted that Deacon Nath. Warriner, Daniel Warner, William King be a Com^«« to apply to the Town for their Consent that we be set of a District;" and, in the following March 24, 1761, it is "voted that the same Com*^^ which were Chosen to Apply to the Town to set us of a District be further Impowered to Apply to the General Court for a Confirmation of the same on the Precincts Cost and Charge." As obstacles rise, their courage rises. Failure inspires with 90 The History of Wilbraham new resolutions. They determine to try what virtue there is in new men and more of them, the south part of the precinct com- ing to the rescue, and the next year, January 7, 1762, it is "Voted that John BHss, William King, Daniel Cadwell, Stephen Stebbins and James Warriner be a Com'^'^'^ to apply to the Town for their Consent that we be set of a District or Town." Not much progress appears to have been made in softening the hearts and subduing the wills of the town, for on the following March 22, 1762, it is "Voted that Stephen Stebbins, James Warriner and Daniel Cadwell be a Committee to Apply to the Town and General Court, if need be, to see if they will sett of this Precinct a separate Town or District." These repeated petitions are evidently producing their effect, for once more, with renewed vigor, they vote, January 3, 1763, that "Dec" Nathaniel Warriner, L" Tho^ Mirick and Stephen Stebbins be a Com"^'^ in behalf of the Precinct to Apply to the Town of Springfield for their Consent to be Sett of a Separate Town or District, & that they be fully Impowerd to Persue our Petition to the General Court in Ord"" to be Sett of afores^." This committee succeeded in their endeavors. Fourteen years after their first petition went to Springfield, delayed, defeated, but never subdued or discouraged, they at last wring, by their tireless importunity, a favorable answer to their prayer. Their petition was granted, and the Act of Incorpora- tion was signed by Sir Francis Bernard, Governor of the Province, June 15, 1763, — one hundred and fifty years ago, — by which act the fourth parish in Springfield was erected a separate town by the name of Wilbraham, and there were granted to the town all the privileges and immunities of other towns with the anomalous exception of the power of choosing a representative to the General Court; in this election, they must still unite with Springfield. The History of Wilbraham 91 ACT OF INCORPORATION ANNO REGNI / HERE IS THE \ "^«'* GEORGII TERTII V COLONY SEAL J tERTIO [In the third year of the reign of George the Third] An Act for incorporating the Fourth Parish of Springfield in the County of Haynpshire into a separate Town by the name of Wilbraham. Whereas the Inhabitants of the Fourth Parish in said Spring- field have represented to this Court that they labour under great Inconveniences and Difficulties in attending on the Publick Affairs of the said Town, by reason of their great dis- tance from the usual Place where they are transacted etc : and that they are increased to such numbers that it may be fitting that they should be incorporated into a separate Town, and have accordingly petitioned this Court therefor — Be it therefore enacted by the Governor, Council and House of Representatives, That the said fourth Parish in said Springfield with the addition of half a mile West from the West line of Said Parish from Chicobee River on the North, to the northerly Line of the Township of Somers on the South be erected into a separate Town by the name of Wilbraham and that the inhabi- tants of said Town be invested with all the Powers and Privi- ledges that Towns in this Province enjoy by Law, that of send- ing a Representative to this Court only excepted. And that the said Town shall have full Right and Liberty from Time to Time to join with said Town of Springfield in the choice of Representatives, to represent them at the General Assembly, And that the said Town of Wilbraham shall from Time to Time be at their Proportionable Part of the Expense of such Representatives, and the Freeholders and other Inhabitants of Wilbraham shall be notified of the Time and Place of Election 92 The History of Wilbraham in like manner as the Inhabitants of said Springfield, by a warrant from the Selectmen of said Springfield, directed to the Constable of said Wilbraham, directing him to warn the In- habitants of said Wilbraham to attend the said meeting at the Time and Place therein assigned and that the Pay of said Representatives be borne by said Towns of Springfield and Wilbraham in the same Proportion from Time to Time as they pay to the Province Tax. And in order effectually to Prevent all future Dispute that might otherwise arise between the said Towns of Springfield and Wilbraham respecting their joint Interests or joint Duties; Be it Enacted, That the said Town of Wilbraham shall enjoy the two Ministry and School Lots in said Town, in full Satisfac- tion of their Share in the Ministry and School Lands in said Town of Springfield, and of the Money and Debts due to said Town : That they pay their due Proportion of the Town Debts already contracted, and have their due Proportion of the Town Stock of Ammunition: That they pay to the Support of the present Poor of said Town of Springfield (now supported at the Town Charge) Eleven Pounds in One Hundred so long as they shall Continue a Charge to said Town; and that this Act shall not be construed to hinder or prevent any Persons, Inhabi- tants of said Springfield from Cutting Timber or Taking Herbage or Stone on any of the Lands in said Wilbraham so long as they remain unfenced, any more than if this Act had not been made. And he it further Enacted, That John Worthington, Esq. be and hereby is empowered and directed to issue his Warrant directed to some principal Inhabitant of said Wilbraham requiring him to warn the Inhabitants of said Town qualified to vote in Town affairs to assemble at some suitable Time and Place in said Town, to choose such Officers as may be necessary to manage the affairs of said Town, which at such meeting they are hereby empowered to choose. Provided, nevertheless, the Inhabitants of said Wilbraham shall pay their proportional Part of all such Province and County Taxes as are already set upon them by the said Town of The History of Wilbraham 93 Springfield in like manner as tho' this Act had not been made. And be it further Enacted, That of the sum set on the Town of Springfield as their Proportion with other Towns in a Tax of one Thousand Pounds, for the future of the said Town of Spring- field, shall retain the sum of Eleven Pounds two Shillings and ten Pence two Farthings; and that there be set on the said Town of Wilbraham the sum of one Pound thirteen Shillings and six Pence as their Rate or Proportion for their Payment of publick Taxes. June lA^^ 1763 — This Bill having been read three several Times in the House of Representatives — Passed to be enacted. TlM° RUGGLES Spk'' June 14"^ 1763 — This Bill having been read three several Times in Council — Passed to be Enacted. A. Oliver Secy June 15"^ 1763 — By the Governor I consent to the enacting of this Bill. Fra Bernard In his address in 1831, speaking of the incorporation of the town, Dr. S. F. Merrick says: "In 1763 the parish was incor- porated into a town by the name of Wilbraham, the name was very grevious to us and we are hardly reconciled to it yet." It seems strange that a name should have been selected, that was "very grevious" to the people of the town. The Stebbins History says, "The town appears to have received its name either from an English Baronet of the name of Wilbraham or from the Parish called Wilbraham, situated near Cambridge in England. — Sir Thomas Wilbraham died in 1692. — If the people of Wilbraham supposed their town was named for this bitter royalist and anti-Puritan, it may account for their dissatisfaction." "But there is another way of accounting for the name. Wilburgham, or Wilbraham, as the modern spelHng is, is a parish or town in the hundred of Staine, County of Cambridge, 94 The History of Wilbraham seven miles from Cambridge, northeasterly. There are two villages, 'Wilbraham Great,' and 'Wilbraham Little.' — "Rowland Stebbins, the ancestor of the Stebbinses, and William Pynchon, the ancestor of the Pynchons, and the original pro- prietor of Springfield, originated in the near neighborhood of these Wilbrahams, and came from near them to this country." It is very probable that through the influence of the descendants of Stebbins and Pynchon, the name Wilbraham may have been selected for this town." In a History of New England, pub- lished in 1879, I find the following relating to the meaning of the name: "The inhabitants of Wilbraham, at the time of its incorporation, objected strenuously, but vainly, to the name attached to them, which has the significance of 'Wild Boar's Home." There are a few persons in this country with that name. And several years ago there was a firm in Philadelphia, Pa., dealing in carriage makers' supplies, of the name of "Wilbra- ham Bros." Sometime ago, as I have been told, there was a student here at the Academy, of that name. One day, soon after his arrival, he rushed into the post office, at the time of the distribution of the morning mail and cried out, "Any letters for 'Wilbraham' to-day?" The postmaster thought he was acting a little "fresh," and answered, "Well! I should say there was." But as he did not pass out any, the young man soon explained that Wilbraham was his name. Today, one hundred and fifty years after the incorporation of the town, we have no feeling of resentment against the anti- Puritan Baronet, "Sir Thomas Wilbraham;" we have a kindly feeling towards "Wilbraham Great," and "Wilbraham Little," of Old England; we can afford to laugh at the supposed mean- ing, "Wild Boar's Home," and we are all glad that the name of our dear old town is WILBRAHAM. About fifteen years ago, while in a southern state, I was telephoning a message to the central office, to be sent by tele- graph to this town. A negro was taking the message and when that was finished, I told him over the telephone that I wanted to be sure that he had the name of the town right, as there were The History of Wilbraham 95 other towns in Massachusetts with somewhat similar names, and I mentioned WilHamstown and WilHamsburg. "Yes sir," he said, "I think I have it right; Wil-bra-ham, not A-bra-ham." I told him that he had it right. The territory of the precinct was enlarged, in the act of incorporation, by the addition of a strip of land on the west side, from the "inner commons," half a mile wide, extending from the Chicopee River to the Connecticut line. In 1780, when the line of Connecticut was accurately surveyed, there fell to our portion another strip of land, called the "Oblong" or "Wales," about a mile in width at one end, and three-quarters of a mile at the other, across the whole width of the town. And finally, to render any further allusion to the territory of the town unnecessary, I will add that, in 1799, thirty-six years after the town was incorporated, that portion of the first division of the "outward commons of Springfield," which lay on the east side of Chicopee River, now called the "Elbows," then "Kingsfield or Kingstown," on the north side of the Bay Road, was added to the town. By these additions, the town was made four and a half miles wide, as far north as its western line extended. Its length, on the west side, was eight miles and one hundred and fifty-two rods; and on its eastern side its length was ten miles and one hundred and thirty rods. But some of the early settlers had gone, and enjoyed not the ripe clusters of their hopes and labors. A few had left the pre- cinct. Of the pioneers, David Merrick, Abel BHss, Samuel Stebbins, and Paul Langdon, had died. There had been births to rejoice and deaths to grieve them during this period. Infancy and manhood went down to the grave, and the "grave-yard," which they had raised many pounds to keep "decent," was becoming the sacred treasury of many of their dear ones. There had been eighty-eight deaths since the settlement, three before the incorporation of the precinct. There had been also three hundred and twenty-five births, and if we include those bom in the half-mile added from the "inner commons" and in the strip called Wales, annexed to the south end of the town, there had been three hundred and sixty-six births. The popu- 96 The History of Wilbraham lation of the town at the time of incorporation, June 15, 1763, could not have varied much from four hundred and fifty or five hundred persons. The population of Wilbraham as given by the state census was as follows: year, 1765— 491 " 1776—1057 " 1790—1555 " 1800—1743 The first warrant for a town meeting was issued by John Worthington, Esq., of Springfield, to Stephen Stebbins, of Wilbraham, Yeoman, bearing date August 8, 1763, requiring him "to warn the Inhabitants of Said Town of Wilbraham Quallifyed by law to vote in Town affairs that [they] meet and Assemble together at the Meeting House in S'^ Wilbraham on Thursday the Twenty-first Day of Aug' Currant At one of the Clock in the afternoon Then and there to Choose a Moderator to preside and Conduct the Said Meeting— and then to Choose all such Town Officers as may be Necessary to Manage the affairs of Said Town and Towns in this Province are by law Oblige to Choose." "Stephen Stebbins, Yeoman, failed not" to "warn" the people, nor were the people slow to hear and obey the warning. They "assembled and met together" as required, August 25, 1763, and it was "Voted that L' Thom^ Mirick Should be Moderator for S'* Meeting. Voted that Ezra Barker [he who was called Master Barker] Should be Clerk for Said Town." The meeting then adjourned to one o'clock the next day to give the "Clerk" opportunity to go to Springfield to be sworn, for there was no Justice of the Peace in Wilbraham in those days. " Josiah D wight Jus' Peace " certifies that Ezra Barker "took the Oath Respecting the Bills of the other Government and the Same Time the Oath of Office as a Clerk for Said Town of Wilbraham." Barker hastens back to town meeting at one o'clock, when the rest of the town officers are duly chosen: "Selectmen, Treasurer, Constables, Assessors, Tithing Men, Surveyors of Highways, Fence Viewers, Dear Reavers, Sealers of Leather, Hogg Reaves, Wardens, Surveyor The History of Wilbraham 97 of Shingles, Claboards, &c., Surveyors of Wheat." There is no tradition that there had been any caucusing previously to the meeting, but there was some sly waggery among these grand- fathers of ours on town-meeting day. It is recorded by Ezra, the Clerk, that "Serg'^ Moses Burt & W"' Stacy Hogg Reaves (were) not Sworn at This Time being absent." Four days after, the honest clerk records that ' ' Serg' Moses Burt and W"" Stacy Refus'^ taking their oath of Office, They being chosen Hogg Reaves! Three officers are named here whose duties ceased long since and of which the younger portion of this assembly require an explanation. The "Warden's" duty was to see that no tres- passes were made on the common lands, by destroying the timber, and carrying off valuable property for private uses con- trary to law. The "Dear Reaves" were to see that deer were not hunted and taken at unsuitable seasons of the year. The "Tithing Men" were to see that the Sunday laws were obeyed, and especially that frisky boys and girls in the galleries at the meeting house should restrain their playfulness and dumb telegraphing to each other while the sacred services continued. The latter was a task requiring ceaseless vigilance, and often was regarded as "labor spent for naught and in vain." The town is now organized. Money must be raised and appropriated for highways, schools, the poor, and the ministry. We may well arrange our survey of this period under the three general heads of Municipal, Ecclesiastical, and Revolutionary History. At the second meeting, held December 1, 1763, the first money was raised and appropriated: for the "Support of Schooling," £ 15; for Mr. Merrick's salary, £ 51, 2 s.; for the support of the poor, £ 2, 5 s. ; for fines, 15 s. ; pound, £ 2; service of bulls, £ 3, 10 s.; contingent charges, £ 1; in all, £ 76, 2 s. The first money appropriated, be it known, and let it be borne in everlasting remembrance, was for the "Support of Schooling," an indication not to be mistaken of the value set by our fathers upon education. The sum is small, it is true, but they were poor, their harvests were scanty, their families large, and they were still struggling for the common comforts of life. 98 The History of Wilbraham At the next meeting, January 3, 1764, a committee of five is chosen to divide the "Town into Districts for Schools;" and it is voted "that the said Committee vShould Divide the Money Granted at this meeting for the use of Schooling in This Town and Proportion the same Equally to each District when Divided in method following, viz: one-half of said money to be Divided upon Poles and Estates and the other half to be Divided upon Children from 4 to 12 years of age." Though these districts were laid out in 1764 I find no record of their number or boundaries till 1775, when the old districts were remodelled and ten districts were formed, and the same year the town raised about one hundred and twenty-six dollars for schools, which would give to each district only the poor pittance of twelve dollars and sixty cents for the support of a school. The whole amount of money raised for schools to 1774, ten years from the incorporation of the town, was £ 217, an average of a little over £21 a year, or about $70. The two "School lots," which were assigned for the support of schools in the allotment of 1684, and also the share of Mr. Clark, who left the county and gave his land for the support of schools, were sold after very much difficulty and hesitation on the part of the town and of buyers. The income from this fund was added to the sum which the town raised. But one schoolhouse was built in town during this period. It was on the mountain, on the east side of the Ridge Road and north of the most northerly road that leads over to East vStreet; very near the site of the present schoolhouse in District No. 5, and was erected at the expense of that school district. There were then but two schoolhouses in the town, this and the one which stood, as early as 1754, nearly opposite the site of the present Congregational Church in the north parish. The schools were kept in the rooms of private houses, and not seldom were taught by the farmers who could read and write a little. There were three celebrated teachers, however, — Master Barker in the north part of the town, and Masters Moses and Enos Stebbins in the south part. The ' ' lesser lights of knowledge were few and dim. Dillworth's Spelling-Book and the Psalter, and later Webster's vSpelling-Book and Third The History of Wilbraham 99 Part were the books used for reading and spelling; Hodder's and Root's Arithmetic for ciphering, when any scholar ventured upon that dark art. The master only had an arithmetic and the sums were given out to the scholar and written down; he "did" them at his leisure. No slates were used till after this period; ink and paper, coal and board, nail and birch-bark were the mathematical apparatus. The knowledge communi- cated was very meagre, children rarely attending school after twelve years of age, if the limit in the division of the school money enables us to determine. The ecclesiastical affairs of the town went on by no means smoothly. The south part of the town was increasing rapidly in population, both by births and immigrations, and was not disposed to aid in repairing the meeting house, or building new pews in it; and not seldom the controversies were sharp and long on these topics. Once at least as a compromise, persons were permitted to build pews at their own cost. The method of "seating" the meeting house was productive of more and more dissatisfaction, the doings of the "seating committee" being sometimes wholly rejected, and very often, almost always, amended. "The proverbial difficultv of managing singing, and especially singers was felt most keenly and treated most unwisely. It is evident that the 'rising generation,' our great-grandfathers were weary of the 'leading' of good Deacon Warnner, who had now from the 'deacon's seat' under the pulpit, raised the pitch and literallv led the singing for over twenty years, ihe people gencrallv felt that there was fulfilled among them the prophecy of the Prophet Amos, 'The songs of the temple shall be turned into howHngs.' Singing masters had made their way to the new town. New music came with them. The old tunes were laid aside. Strange feats of voice and limb were per- formed by mouth and arm when the new singers canie into the seats in the gallery. The congregation could not smg. ihe poor deacon's voice was silent. Great were the searchmgs ot heart' among the ancients. Most unfortunately ot all, the town took the matter in hand. ^, ^ u a "The wisdom of the fathers forsook them. The flames burned all the more fiercely for being fanned. The second article m 100 The History of Wilbraham the warrant for town-meeting, September 24, 1770, was 'To see whether they will come into some method or agreement for more Regular Carrying on the Singing in the Public worship in this town than it is at the present time;' and the third, 'To see whether the Town will be wilHng to sing four Times in the Publick worship on the Sabbath for the future.' It is pretty evident that this movement originated with the new singers. They appear to be ambitious to excel in quantity as well as quality. "There seems to have been no opposition worthy of record to choosing the committee asked for, and ten men were chosen 'to be a Com., to take into consideration the Broken state of this Town with regard to Singing in the Publick Assembly on Sabbath Days, and to consult together and agree upon some Plan or Method whereby to encourage & promote regular and Universal Singing in said assembly, & make report thereof to this or some future meeting.' On the 22d of October, at the adjourned meeting, the committee of ten, Nathaniel Warriner, John Bhss, Thomas Mirick, Moses Stebbins, William King, Ezra Barker, Daniel Cadwell, John Jones, Eliezer Smith and Phineas Newton, make an elaborate report covering two pages of the book of records in Master Barker's best handwriting, in which a list of twenty-three tunes, — 'called Low Dutch, Windsor, Old lOOd, New lOOd, Stroudwater, Meer, Buckland, Broomsgrove, Bangor, St. Martin's, Warwick, St. Hellens, All- Saints, Little Marlborough, Cambridge, Portsmouth, South- well, Quercy, Worksop, Wantage, Standish, New York and 149 Psalm Tune,' — is given, which 'shall be made use of in the Publick worship of God in this town;' this ' List is to be trans- mitted to Mr. Morgan (now singing-master in this Town) in order that he may Teach or Instruct his schollars to Sing them according to Rule.' No other tunes are to be introduced with- out 'consent.' 'Dea" Nath'l Warriner is to give the lead in singing on the forenoons on each Sabbath & one of the Young Men lately Instructed by Mr. Stickney (as they shall agree among themselves) give the lead in singing in the afternoon of each Sabbath for the space of three months from the Date hereof, excepting when Mr. Morgan is present, then it is ex- pected he will carry the singing.' They also report 'that all who Assist in Singing Shall be at their pleasure either to Stand or Sit when Singing without giving Offence to any; that the singers lately Instructed by Mr. Stickney who are seated in the Gallery of the Meeting House are at their Liberty to make a decent and orderlv Exchange of Seats as They Shall agree The History of Wilbraham . 101 among themselves and so to Set for the Space of Three Months from the Date hereof and no longer, or else to continue to Set as they were last Seated;' and '6 thly' and lastly, 'that whoever shall lead in the singing shall be at Liberty to Use the Motion of his hand while singing for the Space of Three Months from the Date hereof or a shorter Space as need shall require." Thus far 'the committee' 'propose to be tryed by vote.' The com- mittee then recommend, that 'as the Beating with the hand in the Congregation when singing is offensive to some it be laid aside as quick as may be and confine the same to the school only ; that all in the Town whose voices will admit of it speedily use proper means to get themselves acquainted with the art of Sing- ing Ruleably & well, — ^in the mean time' they 'recommend to all both old and Young to Join in Singing in the Worshiping assembly and to sing as well as they can; and lastly,' say they, ' we cannot but recommend to ourselves & others to studdy the Things which make for peace, and the things where by we may Edify one another.' "The town voted what the committee recommended. But it is evident that the flames were not to be quenched by any such appliances. 'Three months' grace and 'no longer' is given to 'Beating with the hand' and occupying 'exchanged seats' if they can agree to exchange which is very doubtful. The con- gregation are all to ' sing, as well as they can ' it is true, but to 'Join in Singing' at any rate. The Stickneyites in the 'Gal- lery' would hardly be satisfied. The compromise is like Nebuchadnezzar's image, gold in the head, but 'clay and iron' in the legs and feet. So it turns out, as the 'three months' are expiring, that an article is inserted in the warrant, January 7, 1771, 'to pass any votes in further addition' to those before passed ' as the Town Shall think proper by further lengthening the Time of the Present Mode of Singing.' This article came from the 'Gallery' party evidently. It is followed by another which came from the 'deacon's seat,' as evidently. Hear it: 'to make Inquiry into the conduct of those who call themselves the singers in this Town, and see wheather they have conducted or proceeded agreeable to the report of the Town's Com"''", and the Town's vote thereupon at our last meeting and pass such Vote or Votes as shall be thought Necessary in consequence thereof.' Greek has now met Greek. At the meeting it is voted, 'That Dea" Nath' Warriner Shall continue to set the Psalm as Usual During the Town's Pleasure; also that Moses Warriner and Jonathan BHss do the same.' The 'young men' are voted down ; the ' Galleries ' are in a minority ; so it would 102 The History of Wilbraham seem. But there is abundant life in young blood, and rallying their strength, 'a motion was made whether the singing should be performed in the congregation according to the late mode by Beating with the hand,' etc. ; it being put, and the House being Divided it passed in the afifirmative, 25 against about 19. The 'Deacon's Seat' now loses, but does not yield; for 'a motion was made ' to Deside it by the Town List or by Lawful Voters, and after some debate it was thrown by and the following vote passed, namely, 'Voted that the Rev. Mr. Mirick be Desired to call a Society meeting in order to come into some method of Reconciliation with regard to Singing in the Publick worship.' They adjourn; and no more is recorded or known of the result. Poor Mr. Merrick had cares enough of another kind, as we shall soon see, without being dragged into this controversy about the singing. Thus ended the great struggle of the town respecting the method of ' Carrying on the Singing in the Public Worship of God.' I have dwelt upon it at greater length than the sub- ject itself deserved, because it is a good illustration of the attempts of our ancestors to regulate minute affairs by town action. Let us learn wisdom from their mistakes." Another and much graver difificulty called for all the wisdom and patience of the town. The conditions of the "Worthy Mr. Mirick's" settlement were of such a kind as to render it more and more difficult to fulfill them. Every year a Committee con- ferred with him and agreed upon the price of commodities : and then there was the use of the "Ministry land" whose income he was to have, and whose leasing and renting and care were a great annoyance. More than all, I think Mr. Merrick was as good a farmer as preacher, and that his thrift on the "Overplus Land" given to him as a settlement, was not a small occasion of delay and dislike in paying his salary. A good farm is a dangerous thing for a minister to own among farmers. His thrift is all open to view and begets envy. Mr. Merrick had a family of promising boys now entering upon manhood, some already arrived at it, and two negroes to aid in the field and one in the house, giving him an appearance of abundance and increasing riches. The town were not disposed to aid any more than they could help in "multiplying his prosperity." As early as January 7, 1771, a movement is made to give up The History of Wilbraham 103 the attempt to settle the salary on the prices of "Sundry Species of Commoditys," and the sum of "Fifty one Pounds Ten Shillings, lawful Money of this Province" is voted by the town and accepted by Mr. Merrick instead, and papers were ex- changed between the parties, January 6, 1772. It is also agreed that the "Ministry Land" shall be sold, on condition that £ 6 be added annually to Mr. Merrick's salary, and the sale is made and bonds are given amounting to £ 348, 13 s. 5 d. or $1162.20, the interest on which is to be paid annually for the support of preaching. Mr. Merrick's health failed in 1772, and difficulties, in addi- tion to all the others, of a serious nature arose about supplying the pulpit and paying his salary while he was sick. Matters came to a crisis July 14, 1775, and the town not only refused to raise Mr. Merrick's salary, but, after hearing read a very frank statement made by him of his sickness and offering to relinquish five pounds out of his salary for the current year in case the town should "Employ Some Learned Licenced Preacher for three months next ensuing ' ' and in the ' ' same proportion ' ' for "every three months thereafter in case" he "should not be able to supply the pulpit before the Expiration of Said Term," and provided also that he "should be paid the remaining part" of his "salary according to" their "agreement," yet after a "Long Debate a motion was made and Seconded to Dismiss Mr. Mirick;" then "voted to Dismiss Mr. Mirick from the Gospel Ministry upon his being willing;" then "voted to adjourn to the 4th day of September next." At that meeting "Mr. Mirick's answer was read" again "and not excepted by the town." The committee of conference is enlarged and are directed to "Wait on Mr. Mirick again and see if their Grievance could not be removed." They "weighted on Mr. Mirick with two votes passed" and received the following answer: — "To the Inhabitants of Wilbraham in Town Meeting as- sembled, Friends and Neighbours: Considering my bodily Infirmity and Difficulty of Supplying the Pulpit Steadily for the present, I hereby engage (provided you accept of it) to 104 The History of Wilbraham relinquish out of my annual salary Eight Shillings per Day for as many Sabbaths as you shall be obliged to hier a preacher on account of my failing through inability. S*^ Engagement to continue one year from date hereof & no longer — if my Life should be continued so Long. Yours, N. Merrick Wilbraham September 4, 1775." This answer was read in "a very full Town meeting & not Excepted." They vote "to chuse another committee to draw up a List of Grievances and Lay them before Mr. Mirick & agree with him to Call in Sister Churches; then after a Long Debate," says the town clerk "there was no Committee chose." The old committee was directed ' ' to wait on the Rev'^ Mr. Mirick to Know if he will ask for and Receive an Honorable Dismission from the work of the Ministry in this town and unite with the town in Calling a Council for that purpose — further voted as the opinion of this town that a Minister has no Right to any Salery or maintenance as a Minister any Longer than he per- forms the work of a Minister." The clerk adds, "N. B. the above votes past by a very grate majority then the meeting disolved." For the next two years the same subject came up at several town meetings, at one of which, March 28, 1776 "Voted and Dismist the Rev'^ Mr. Mirick from the work of the Ministry in this town." At a meeting held about two months later, May 20, 1776, the vote to dismiss Mr. Merrick was Reconsidered made nul and void." "There is yet hope of a safe and honorable deliverance. They wait therefore, with worthy solicitude, the action of the meet- ing, July 2"^. A new committee of five persons is chosen to ' ' wait on the Rev'^ Mr. Merrick and ask what his demands are on the town;' and it appears that his reply was, 'What the town owes me' for they put themselves right in the case by further voting all Mr. Merrick's ' Sallary to the 28 Day of Last June that has not been granted heretofore.' "The wisdom of the fathers is returning. They choose a com- mittee to hire preaching, for Mr. Merrick is too infirm to per- The History of Wilbraham 105 form 'the work of the Ministry,' and another committee 'to wait on our Rev*^ pasture to make a final settlement with him and report at this or some future meeting.' They adjourned to September 2^; met and adjourned to October, 'and but four persons met no meeting could be opened so the meeting Conci- quently Disolved of it self.' Mr. Merrick's health was still declining and a committee was chosen to supply the pulpit for six months, at a special meeting held in September. In Novem- ber there is an article in the warrant to see if the 'town will unite with the church and chuse a Council to dismis our Rev'^ pasture agreeable to the Late result of the Rev'^ Council & chuse a Com"*^"^ for that purpos.' The meeting met and adjourned to December 9, when no vote was passed respecting calling a council, but Capt. John Shaw, Mr. Moses Stebbins, & L* Noah Stebbins were chosen a ' Com"*^" to wait on Mr. Mirick with a coppy of the Last Grant made him of his Sallary and see if he will accept and be content therewith and give a Discharge from any further Clame on the Town by way of Sallary and make a Reporte at some futer meeting.' "This is the last recorded action in this protracted and painful transaction. The 'Worthy' Mr. Merrick was rapidly sinking to his grave; going to his reward. He died December 22, 1776, aged sixty-six years, after a ministry of thirty-five years and six months." Mrs. Abigail Merrick, his wife, survived him thirty-one years, and died September 12, 1807, in the ninety-eighth year of her age. The final settlement with the heirs of Mr. Merrick was not made till 1784, eight years after his death. The town then ' ' Granted to the heirs of the Rev"* Noah Mirick what was Due to him for his Salary & what was Due by the sale of the ministry land included the sum [of] £ 48, 15 s. 1 d. 2 f." "He was born August 6, 1711, and graduated at Yale College in 1731, the son of James, who was the son of Thomas Merrick, who came from Wales and settled in Springfield 1636. He was a good scholar and preacher for his time, very methodical in his habits, exact in all his ways and punctual in the performance of every duty. Saturday was his preparation day for the solemn duties of the Sabbath. At an early hour he retired to his study, and no one was permitted to interrupt him. His meals were carried to his room, and he did not appear in his family till Sunday morning. He was an Arminian in his opinions, if 106 The History of Wilbraham universal tradition can be relied upon, and it is not improbable that this may have had some influence in breeding disaffection at last in the town and church. The church book shows the usual amount of success in the ministry. One hundred and seventy-two joined the church, one hundred and three owned the covenant, and six hundred and four were baptized, and thirteen were dismissed to other churches. Cases of Discipline never resulted in expulsion, or if so, no record is made of the fact. Mr. Merrick's labors were not disturbed by the con- troversies of intrusive sectaries till near their close, when the Baptists appeared in the northeast part of the town, organized a society in 1768, and Rev. Seth Clark was settled in 1770. No serious collision appears to have arisen between the churches, however, and the harmony of the town seems not to have been disturbed. One lesson, at least, we may learn from this long struggle: there was trouble among the fathers not less than among us in their ecclesiastical affairs, and no one who reads their records attentively can sigh for the old ways and the times of the fathers." The following are a few entries copied from the account book of Rev. Noah Merrick. They may throw some light on con- ditions of that time. The book is now in possession of his great-great-grandson, Charles S. Merrick, of our town. £ S d 1744. Oct. 9. To Jas. Ball his right to ye overplus land 3 " " " David Cooley " " " 5 " 13 y Committee for laying out my lot 7 6 " "22 Rachel, Negro, for work 4 6 1746 " 7 To Shelvan, Negro, some toabcco 1 3 1747 Jan. To Mr. Brecks Negro 4 lbs tobacco 4 Feb. To Mr. Breck toward a Negro 4 Mar.23 To " " in part for a Negro. 100 " June To my'Father's Negro 33/2 lb tobacco at }4 5 3 " Oct. To S. Palmer, pr shoes for my wife and child and mending my Negros. 2 8 Dec. 25 To Mr. Breck in part for a Negro 60 " " To E. Pynchon recording a marriage 2 174S Mar. 7 To my Negro 2 lb flax a 31 pr 6 " Apr. 15 To Rev. Mr. Breck in part for a Negro 56 " June " " " " " " " " " 6 '• Aug. 29 To My Negro 14 " Sept. 9 To Mr. E. Pynchon recording a marriage 2 The History of Wilbraham {Continued) 107 £ S d 1749 Jan. 20 To Sheba Burt for cutting out a great coat for my Negro 2 1749 Feb. To E. Pynchon recording a marriage 2 Apr. To Capt. Stebbins Recording Returns of y*^ Committee 4 8 1749 Apr. 13 Mr. Brcck for 6 sheep 9 6 1750 Aug. 30 To my Negro 4 1751 July To Capt. Pynchon recording a deed 2 5 " Sept. To Aaron Stebbins jun'' his head of hair at 2c 5y " Nov. 12 To Edward Pvnchon recording a marriage 2-6 " birth h 3 — 3 9 1752 To Master Barker schooling 2 — — From the death of Mr. Merrick in 1776, there was no settled minister in the north part of the town till 1787, a period of eleven years. But the people in the south part of the town had so rapidly increased that, as early as 1765, they made applica- tion to the town for money to support preaching among them in the winter, which was promptly refused. At the December meeting, 1767, the town refused the "Southpart" the privilege of having ' ' Two Months Preaching in the Winter Season upon there own cost.'' Such a vote would not conciliate the Stebbinses and Langdons and Morrises and Chaffees. They rally in 1772, and ask to be set off as a town, but are voted down summarily. In 1778, after a struggle at several adjourned meetings, and the report of a committee, they vote to divide the town into "two parishes;" but it was afterwards reconsidered. In 1780, they again urge their claim to be a parish upon both town and General Court, and press it with vigor till at last they gain their object, and are set pff as a parish, June 11, 1782. The line between the parishes from Springfield to Monson was on the south side of David Bliss's farm, those adjoining the line being permitted to choose whichever parish the\' pleased. Near the close of this period, January 10, 1780, Deacon Nathaniel Warriner, one of the first four settlers of the town 108 The History of Wilbraham died, in the seventy-seventh year of his age. He was called to the most important offices of trust in both precinct and town. Besides the important office which he held in the church from the very beginning, and to which he gave a "full sacramental furniture," he was moderator of many of the precinct meetings, sharing the honor with Thomas Merrick, and almost exclusively moderator of town meetings for seven years to 1770, when John Bliss of the south part appears on the stage, and succeeds for many years to the Deacon's honors. Having no children on whose shoulders the mantle of his virtues and the results of his industry and economy could descend, he gave at his decease £ 400 " Lawfull money " or about $1300 to the town, " to be the one-half given to the support of a Gospel Ministry, the other half to be to the use and Support of Schools in this town. Pro- vided that all other Churches which are or may be in this town of a different Constitution from the Standing order of Churches in this Land Shall Forever be Excluded from Receiving any benefit from the same." He is the first benefactor of the town, who has given a sum for public purposes equalling this donation. I have procured from the Register of Probate of Hampshire County a copy of the Will of Nathaniel Warriner. And as very few of the people of our town know anything definite in regard to its provisions, it seems advisable to insert it here. WILL OF DEACON NATHANIEL WARRINER In the Name of God Amen I Nathaniel Warriner of Wilbraham in the County of Hamp- shire & State of the Massachusetts Bay in North America Dea" Being in a very low State of Bodily Health, but of Sound Mind & Memory Yet Calling to Mind the Mortality of my Body do make & ordain this my last Will & Testament as fol- lows, Viz First I recomend my Soul into the hands of God who gave it; and my Body I remitt unto the Earth by desent Buril at the Discretion of my Executor hereafter Named, As to my Worldly Estate I give Bequeath & Dispose of the Same in the following manner. Viz To Moses Warriner my Kindsman I Give and Bequeath The History of Wilbraham 109 that Lot of Land lying in the Mountain which I Bought of his Brother Nathaniel Warriner & beginning & bounded on the east end of Philip Lyons Lot of Land and extending east within forty rods of the Middle road So Called : also my Scheme Lot of Land at or near Stebbins's Dam So Called which was Originally laid out to Benjamin Warriner Deceas'' also one third of all my waring Apperrel the Same to be equally Divided betwixt him and the other partners as they Shall agree. To Noah Warriner my Kindsman & Brother to the above Named Moses I Give & Bequath my Home Lot of Land be- gining at at Pole bridge Brook So Called & extendeth east to Gideon Burts Land : also all my Building of every kind Standing on the Same : Also all my Ash Swamp Lot of Land begining at the Inward Common line & extending east to within forty rods of the Middle road So Called: also my Desk, Lock & Key: also all my Team Utensils as Cart, Ploughs, Sleads, Harrows, Axes, Hoes &c &c — one Plow Chain only excepted — I Also Appoint the Said Noah to be executor to this my last Will & Testament — also I give him my House Clock & best Bed & its furniture. To Nathaniel Warriner my Kindsman, Brother to the above Named Moses & Noah I Give & Bequath all that part of my Ash Swamp Lot of Land Bounding on the third road So Called & extending east to Munson line : Also one Cow & Eight Sheap which he hath now in possion by Lease Viz Said Sheep on Con- dition He pay to Hannah Alvord Six pounds of good Mer- chantable Sheeps wool Yearly so long as She remains unmarried : Also I give unto him the Said Nathaniel one Plough Chain & one Third Share of my wearing Apparrel — To Abner Warriner My Kinds Man & Brother to the above I Give & Bequeath the whole width of my Ash Swamp Lot of Land bounding on the Middle road So Called & extending thence West forty rods; also one third Share of my wearing Apparrel To my Sister Ehsabeth I Give & bequeath a Sufficient Main- tinance out of my Estate during Life in case She hath not enough of her own to Cary her through To Zebulon Chapin my Kindsman I Give & Bequeath all the east end of my Home Lot beginning at the Middle road So Called and extending thence east to Alonson Line whereon he now liveth To Jacob Chapin my Kindsman I Give & Bequeath all m\- Scheme Lot of Land lying at or Near Cosey Swamp So Called. To Samuel Warner 2d of this Town I Give & Bequeath all m\- Scheme Lot of Land in the Inward Commons & lying South- 110 The History of Wilbraham wardly of Mill river near Enos Chapins Saw Mill, and was deed*^ to me by Moses Church: also any and all other Lands which are my Just property lying in this Town or elsewhere & not otherways Mentioned or Disposed of by this Will To Gideon Chapin of Chiccupee my Kindsman I Give & Bequeath about Thirty Acres of Land lying in Ludlow near Hadly line To the Wives of Aaron Bliss, Deacon Edward Chapin, Richard Woolworth each of them being near of Kindred to my Deceased Wife I Give & Bequeath that Chest with Drawers & the Pewter of every kind, likewise the Silver Thimble, Gold and Silver Sleave Buttons all which was my Wifes property at Marriage to be equally Divided betwix them as they Shall agree To Hannah Alvord my Present Housekeeper I give & Be- queath the Use & Improvement of the North room of my Dwelling House; also a Priviledge She Shall need in my Sellar under my House & in my Kitchin ; back room & Meal Chamber & Closet, also in my Garden Plot of Land; also 10 pounds of Flax Yearly also when my Orchard is fruitful She Shall have a Competency of Appels for her own Use, & Two Barrels of Sider Three Bushels of Wheat, Seven Bushels of Rye, Two Bushels of Indian Com & one Bushel of Malt each of them Flowered & Delivered to her hand with Kenell & Brawn — Zebulon Chapin to find one Bushel of the Wheat & Two Bushels of the Rye — Said Nathaniel to find one Bushel of the Wheat & Two of the Rye — Said Abner to find one Bushel of the Wheat & one of the Rye. Said Moses to find Two Bushels of the Rye — -Said Noah Warriner to provide, & find to the Said Hannah Sufficient Fire wood ready Cut fit for the Fire & at the Door of my Dwelling House, & to pasture by grass & Winter by Hay one Cow also find unto her Eight Score pounds of good Pork ready Salted or Pickled also as often as he can conveniantly to Transport the Said Hannah to the House of Publick Worship on Sabbath Days, and all this During the whole Term that the Said Hannah Shall remain unmarried & no longer. To the Said Moses, Noah, Nathaniel & Abner I give & Be- queath all my Stock or Heards of live Cattle or Creatures to be equally Divided betwix them as they Shall agree To The Town of Wilbraham I Give & Bequeath the Sum of four Hundred Pounds Lawful Money agreeable or equall to Silver at Six Shillings & Eight pence p'' ounce one half of which for the Use & Support of a Gospell Ministry, the other half to be to the Use & Suport of Schools in this Town I order my Executor herein Named or his Successor to Loan out the Same in good The History of Wilbraham 111 hands with Suretys upon Interest for the Same purposes and the Interest of the Same Shall be Yearly paid into the Treasury of the Town for the Same purpose & be Subject to recovery Yearly by the Town Treasurer for that or those Uses or other- ways recoverable as the Town thinks fit & the Principle is always to be kept whole & entire & not Diminished — Provided Nevertheless — That if this Town is ever lawfully Divided into two Towns Viz a North & a South ; in that Case the North part Shall be only Intitled to the Benefit of any part of the Said Four Hundred Pounds: also it is hereby Provided that all other Churches which are or may be in this Town of a Different Con- stitution from the Standing order of Churches in this Land Shall forever be excluded from receiving any Benefit from the Same. Furthermore All Moneys Justly Due to my Estate by Book, Bond or Note I Give & Bequeath to all & each one of my Kindred & Lawful Heirs the Same to be paid by my Executor or Successor to each of them in Equal vShares: and if any of my Debtors Shall appear Indigent or needy & unable to pay their respective Dues to my Estate in that Case I order the Debtors to be forgiven and the Debt forever to be relinquished & not recovered In Witness whereof I the Said Nathaniel Warriner have here- unto Set my hand and Seal this 29th Day of December Annoque Domini 1779 N. B. Four razings & Eight Interlinings before Sealing — Sin^ Seald Pubhshed & pronounced by the Said Nath" Warriner Seal Nathaniel Warriner as his last Will and Testament in Presence of us Jesse Warner Abel King Asaph King Hampshire County S. S. Northampton, Mass., July 9, 1913. Registry of Probate. A true Copy, Attest Hubbard M. Abbott, Register. I have not found any report of the executor of the Deacon Warriner will, which shows when, or to whom, the legacy of 400 pounds was paid. But it must have been paid previous to September 10th, 1782. For on that date, at a meeting of the North Parish, it was 112 The History of Wilbraham "Voted that Cap' James Shaw Doct. John Stems Doct. Samuel F. Mirick be a Com"^^ to agrea with the South Parish respecting Deacon Nathaniel Warriner Donation as Soon as may be and report to the Com^'''^ Chosen to prefer a petition to the General Court for a redress of Grevience." Also "Voted that Doc' Sam" F. Mirick Cap' Abel King Cap' James Shaw be a Com"^*^ to apply to the General Court for redress of Grevience Concerning the Division of the town as soon as may be in Case the South Parish Dont relinquish Dec" Warriner Donation." I have not found any report from either of these committees. The vSouth Parish may have claimed, that, as the town was not actually divided, they were entitled to the use of one half of the legacy for the "Support of a Gospel Ministry." When the town was divided in 1878, a committee was appointed by the town of Wilbraham to adjust this matter between the two parishes. But nothing was accomplished. I have overrun the time limit, or arrangement a little, but it seemed best to keep this record of the church business together. VALUATION OF WILBRAHAM 1771 In the Stebbins History, Page 230, is a list of the names of one hundred men, taxpayers in the town, with a list of their property, divided into twenty different items. There were 92 dwelling houses and three tan houses. I have omitted a few of the items, and have condensed several of the others; To illustrate, the four items, "Acres of pasture," "Acres of tillage," "Acres of mowing," "Acres fresh meadow," are all included in one. The number of tons of fresh meadow hay cut was more than four times as much as that cut from the upland mowings, and both are entered here together. By the state census, the population of Wilbraham in 1765, was 491, and in 1776, 1057. Assuming that the increase was fairly regu- lar, the population of the town, in 1771, was about 800. It seems worth while to preserve this ancient account of the products and property of the town. The History of Wilbraham 113 Taxpayers and List of Properties Money Horses Cows Goats Acres of Bush. of Barrels Tons NAMES at Interest and Mares and Cattle and Sheep pasture tillage mowing grain raised yearly of OI cider hay yearly j yearly Thomas Mirick £220 2 12 23 31 50 9 John Hitchcock 2 15 12 49 153 7 12 Noah Stebbins 1 1 18 4 25 31 15 9 Nathaniel BHss 3 10 16 19 48 25 8 PhiUp Lyon 2 6 14 16 80 8 Gideon Burt 9 13 21 45 10 8 Moses Warriner 1 8 5 17 32 4 10 Noah Warriner 1 3 4 13 25 5 James Warriner 2 16 25 65 150 5 20 Moses Burt 3 23 22 42 100 20 15 Nath'l Warriner 754 2 18 16 53 154 10 12 Aaron Alvord 2 10 12 30 56 10 10 Daniel Warner 3 10 8 40 100 12 14 Phineas Newton 2 18 10 40 135 20 12 Ezra Barker 4 3 15 50 7 1 Enoch Chapin 50 1 5 9 10 8 2 Isaac Brewer 2 4 7 24 132 6 2 William Brewer 1 1 8 19 40 10 11 Eleazer Smith 1 6 6 58 50 8 5 David Warriner 2 10 12 59 280 4 13 John Sterns 2 6 6 5 2 Samuel Warner 1 7 6 29 66 14 Daniel Murphy 1 4 6 26 120 6 8 Samuel Bartlett 1 5 7 15 28 3 3 Abel Bliss 1 10 8 24 64 4 Nath'l Hitchcock 1 8 8 38 108 15 Benj. Warriner 4 3 35 110 4 9 Nat. Hitchcock, Jr. 1 5 3 Isaac Osborn 4 14 22 96 7 David Jones 2 6 8 10 42 2 Elisha Ferry 3 6 19 72 5 Benoni Atchinson 1 4 10 20 1 56 3 Samuel Warner, Jr. 3 7 4 12 2 Jesse Warner 1 10 2 30 102 7 Moses Alvard 1 6 4 42 166 17 Samuel Day 1 6 3 31 176 6 Joseph Abbot 1 5 4 17 32 10 Nath'l Bliss, Jr. 4 9 8 35 3 James Eddy 1 17 14 51 150 14 Caleb Stebbins 2 12 20 39 100 14 Joseph Firmin 2 1 John Crane 1 5 17 100 8 Daniel Cadwell, Jr. 8 1 13 8 Zebulon Chapin 1 4 10 14 70 1 Daniel Cadwell 1 15 15 34 108 5 12 Lemuel Dunham 1 4 5 17 40 3 Paul Hitchcock 1 3 Daniel Carpenter 1 James Twing 1 6 10 24 90 5 12 Thomas Dunham 41 6 114 The History of Wilbraham Taxpayers and List of Properties — Continued Monev Horses Cows Goats Acresof Bush, of; Barrels! Tons NAMES at Interest and Mares and Cattle and Sheep pasture grain tillage raised mowing; yearly OI cider yearly OI hay yearly John Plumley 1 1 4 j Jonathan Ely 79 2 19 18 ! 37 90 15 15 Joseph Burnham 1 1 10 24 40 9 Moses Colton 2 i 24 26 53 100 18 21 Stephen BHss 1 5 22 30 7 5 Joel Bliss 1 8 9 19 30 7 Moses Stebbins 2 24 10 53 130 8 16 John Bliss 2 22 15 39 100 7 16 Enos Stebbins 1 10 6 21 ; 50 10 William Stacy 2 10 14 24 70 3 8 Gary Burdick 1 6 13 4 Samuel Sexton 1 12 10 36 100 6 11 John Goodwell 4 13 50 4 Joel Chaffee 1 5 8 12 60 4 John Firmin 40 1 13 7 31 50 8 8 William Wood 1 7 8 20 40 6 Nathan Answorth 1 17 57 50 4 12 James Prentice 2 5 30 2 Thomas Lewis 1 5 12 13 24 5 7 Joseph Jones 1 7 10 30 80 13 Joseph Sharon 1 3 6 10 30 3 Abel King 4 10 20 20 100 7 Jabez Hendrick 4 9 13 15 30 10 Isaac Morris 1 7 5 12 30 7 Joseph Chaffee 1 7 8 16 50 8 Abner Badger 1 13 4 23 60 10 David Perry 1 7 5 30 2 Joseph Butler 1 7 4 6 40 6 Zadock Stebbins 8 6 15 40 7 Simeon Chaffee 8 4 20 50 9 John Chaffee 2 5 3 25 Phineas Stebbins 1 4 12 18 30 12 William King 4 28 18 64 150 28 Thomas King 1 7 10 17 50 8 Ezekiel Russell 1 9 8 23 100 10 William Tailler 1 2 33 122 10 Eldad Stebbins 1 10 16 34 110 4 14 David Burt 1 6 5 16 45 7 Abner Chapin 1 11 16 28 110 6 10 Paul Langdon 1 8 9 30 100 40 13 John Langdon 1 7 10 44 80 6 7 John Williams 2 21 9 93 40 50 22 Jonathan Brown 17 25 10 Gideon Kibby 1 11 12 24 140 6 Aaron Stebbins 2nd 3 12 12 31 130 2 13 Aaron Stebbins 1 10 12 34 140 7 12 Asa Chaffee 1 1 6 7 20 3 Lewis Langdon 1 1 Benj. Hutchinson 7 8 7 40 1 Jonathan Mirick 3 25 7 74 280 20 25 Names 100 1188 121 850 815 2490 7004 420 j 825 The History of Wilbraham 115 It will be remembered that when the Outward Commons were divided, or apportioned among the one -hundred and twenty-five original proprietors, in 1674-75, a lot in each division was set for the support of the ministry, and one for the schools. Each ministry lot was 37 rods and 4 feet wide, north and south, and four miles long, east and west. But as each rod in the width of the lots was only sixteen feet long, we must deduct one rod one foot and six inches, which would leave each ministry lot 36 rods 1 foot and 6 inches wide, and as each rod wide, four miles long, would contain eight acres, there would be about two hundred and eighty-nine acres in each lot, and each school lot would contain about one hundred and forty-four acres. In April, 1769, it was voted "that the Com^^^ which was chosen to Sell or Lease the School Lands in this town shall Sell or Lease the same in such manner as is most for the Interest and Benefit of this Town and according to their best skill and Judge- ment and that they give to the Purchasers good Title of or the same by Lease or deed on behalf of this Town on conditions fol- lowing (Viz) that the purchaser or purchasers shall at Bargaining for said Lands pay the Cost for the same, or find two good Sureties with themselves who shall be firmly Bound for Sure payment, further Voted * * * that said Committee make report of their doings to Some future Meeting." There is an article in the warrant for a meeting, January 1, 1770, "to receive the Report of the Com''^'^ which was chosen to lease or sell the School Lands." Their report is not recorded; but a committee is chosen "to take care of the money which the School Lands were sold for, and to see to it that the same is safe and that the Interist of the same be paid yearly and lodged in the town treasury," etc. The ministry and school lots were leased year by year until they were sold. In 1768, the school lands were leased as follows: "To James Eddy £ 0. 3. 0; To Sam' Glover £ 0. 12. 0; To Isaiah Chaffee £ 0. 4. 0; to Amos Chaffee £ 0. 4. 0; To John Bliss £0. 6. 0; Total £ 1. 9. 0." In 1772-73, the town voted to receive 155 pounds 5 shillings 5 pence from former treasurers, vSamuel Stebbins deceased, and 116 The History of Wilbraham " " ' 41. 10. " 1st, ' 10. 17. 8 day 28, ' 12. 10. " " ' 31. 18. 3 unc 8, 39. 18. " " ' 27. 8. it ( ( t 76. 9. 6 " " 15. 0. Isaac Brewer for money received for Land Tax sales, and sale of overplus land. In 1773, a committee of seven reported to the town that they had sold the two ministry lots and delivered to the town ' ' nine bonds for Money on Interest Due to said town on account of the sale of the Ministry Lands so far as they have sold of the same, Viz: — James Ferry, one Dated June 8th 1772, £ 93. 2. Jonathan Mirick Ezekiel Russell Amos Hitchison Joseph Dunham Benj. Farmin Oliver Bliss Levi Bliss Caleb Stebbins for over plus lands Total, Lawfull Money 349. 3. 5" If we deduct the £ 15 received for overplus land we have £ 334. 3. 5 from the sale of the ministry lots, with perhaps some additions later, the income from which would be for the "sup- port of the gospel." In the treasurer's accounts of the North Parish, the first record of interest money received, that I have found, is, January 1st, 1794, " By forty Dollars by the town committee £ 12. 0. 0;" 1795, "By thirteen pound ten shillings interest money 13. 10. 0;" 1796, "By forty five dollars Interest money 13. 10. 0" Then forty-five dollars is received each year until 1803. I have not found any account of the treasurer's receipts from 1803 to 1815. Beginning with 1815 to 1829, $45.00 is received each year, with perhaps one or two exceptions, "from the town for the support of the Gospel." It is sometimes entered, "Interest on loan money." The Stebbins History says: "The epic of this period yet remains to be recited, — the words and deeds of our fathers during the Revolutionary War. The The History of Wilbraham 117 subject is as rich in inspiration as in instruction for us, the grand- children and great-grandchildren of these men. The records are full of the proceedings of the town, — passing resolutions of sympathy with the suffering city of Boston ; sending aid to the families whose members were killed or wounded at the Lexing- ton fight; sending men into the field by the payment of large bounties; furnishing their share of beef to the commissary; giving clothing to the half-naked soldiers; choosing committees to ' tcike care of persons ' inimical to the State; struggling with a depreciated currency; voting one silver dollar in paying taxes to be equivalent, first to seventy-five, then to eighty, then to two hundred and fifty dollars of paper money; filling a draft of every seventh man; and leaving the crops in the field to be harvested, as well as planted, by the old men, the children, and the women. Such is a glance at the deeds I am to rehearse. "The great cause of the Revolutionary War — taxation without representation — had stirred up a deep feeling of hostility to the mother country, and the indirect manner in which the tax was levied — by a tariff on imported goods from Great Britain and the British possessions — only added fuel to the flame. They could not escape the tax, unless they ceased using the goods imported. If they made no purchases, they would pay no taxes. Accordingly an association was formed in 1769, by the mer- chants in Boston, whose members pledged themselves to import no more of the taxed articles, and the citizens were petitioned to cease trading with all merchants who would not pledge them- selves to import no more of them from England or her depend- encies. This pledge of the citizens was not only circulated in the town of Boston, but was also sent to all the towns in the colony. The appeal from the merchants reached the citizens of this town in the spring of 1770, and at a town-meeting held May 1, of which Lieut. Thomas Merrick was moderator, it was 'Voted that the Marchants not only of our Metropolis but thro' the continent have acted Generous and as becoming Gentlem[en] of a free Constitution and as well wishers of their Fellow Men in that they have Nobly Preferred the Public good to their own private interest, and with a view to obtain a Redress of those Grievances so Justly complained of have by a certain agreement engaged to Suspend their Importations from Great Britain, a Measure which cannot but be approved by every wise and Generous Man, and which we hope will prove Instrumental to Effect the Salutary Design in view.' 'Voted that the above vote be recorded in the Town Book and a Copy 118 The History of Wilbraham thereof to be transmitted to the committee of Inspection in the Town of Boston in order to be PubHshed.' "This is the first voice from Wilbraham, five years before the battle of Lexington, and it is in every way worthy of the men and the crisis. Our hearts swell with gratitude as we repeat the words. We feel taller and stronger as we remember they were the words of our ancestors. "The town clerk, the renowned Master Barker, adds to his record of the above vote, 'N. B. It was moved in the meeting to pass some Votes relating to not purchasing goods of those, who, contrary to the merchant's agreement, continue to Import, and also relating to the Horrid Murther lately committed in Boston by the Soldiers : but a rumour that the Duty acts were repealed, and being an Infant town [mark the modesty as well as the manliness of the fathers, for the town was not yet seven years old] in the Province, the Meeting thought Prudent not to show themselves too forward in passing many votes in the affair.' Their patriotism is surpassed by nothing but their modesty. They desired no quarrel with the mother country, and hoping the 'rtimour of repeal' was true, they passed over without action the article 'to see if this town will take care Speedily to Procure and Provide a Stock of Powder and Am- munition.' "No further action was taken by the town for the next three years. The controversy was carried on mainly between the colonial Governor and the citizens of Boston, though active correspondence was kept up with other towns in the state. At a town meeting held April 6, 1773, Ezra Barker, Isaac Brewer, Eleazer Bliss, John Bliss, and Nath'l Warriner wxre chosen a committee ' to take into Consideration Corresponding with the town of Boston relative to the Crown fixing Salaries upon our officers without our Consent.' At an adjourned meeting, held April 20th, 'at 3 o'clock P. M.,' this committee make their report in reply to the appeal of the Boston Committee, drawn up in part by Samuel Adams and Joseph Warren, and presented to the town meeting of Boston, November 20, 1772, by James Otis, that flaming torch of the Revolutionary struggle. In what words could these simple citizens of young Wilbraham respond to the sentences of fire which came blazing from the pen of Adams, and thundering from the lips of Otis? Listen to them, — modest, manly, heroic: 'We, the Inhabitants of the town of Wilbraham this 20th day of April A. D. 1773 in town meeting Lawfully assembled by adjournment Take this oppor- tunity to acknowledge the favour of a Pamphlet printed by order The History of Wilbraham 119 of the town of Boston at their meeting Nov. 20th, 1772, wherein the rights of the Colonists are stated together with a list of publick Grievances or infringements of those rights, &c., we freely acknowledge that we are a few days later than might justly be expected & perhaps some will say that we are fore- closed on account that the Honorable House of Representatives have taken the matter in hand, others may venture to say that Seeing Wilbraham is but an Infant town, the Inhabitants there of are bold and Imprudent, in meddling with the affair: Since the most anticent towns in the same Country have lain still and done nothing; we answer that we have a call to be very bold to stand for and maintain our just rights and privileges especially at this so critical time. And if we may be allowed to use Scripture Language we would have recourse to the words of Elihu and say, I am young and ye are very old, wherefore I was afraid and Dust not Show you mine opinion. I said Days should Speak and multitude of years should teach wisdom. But there is a Spirit in man &°c., — Therefore I said Hearken to me I also will Show mine opinion. — Behold, / waited for words, &c. Thus far the Introduction, and after taking thankful notice of the late conduct of the honorable house of representatives we will proceed to a few resolves." In these resolves the committee say it is (1) "the opinion of this town that the rights of the Colonists as stated in the Boston Pamphlet in general are well and Justly Stated and we have too much reason to believe that there is an attempt made to abridge us of those rights, which is Cruel and unreasonable; (2) that in faithfulness to ourselves to our_ posterity and as friends to the Enghsh constitution and nation as well as faithful and loyal vSubjects to our Sovereign Lord the King, we may not eare sit still as Idle Spectators and DO NOTHING, Wherefore Considering ourselves a part of the whole, and ynembers of the same Body and that our Interests are Joint Interests (3) we are willing & will unite and Join with our Brethren in pursuing all Proper & Lawful methods whereby we may gain redress of those Grievances so Justly Complained of and which are like to prove So hurtful to the good Subjects of the King as well as Dishonorable to his Crown. (4). Resolved as the opinion of this town that ^A e are not Sensible that we or our Brethren of this Province have Done anything thus to forfeit our Just rights or to merrit the Displeasure of our Sovereign, but on the other hand we verily Beleive that the People of this Province and throughout the whole British America are as true and as Loyal subjects as any in the Kings Dominions, at the Same time we Cannot omilt Saying that it is with Pleasure 120 The History of Wilbraham we observe Stiddiuess and firmness of the people in their resolu- tions as well as good temper in standing for and maintaining their Just rights and Priviledges and that all mobs, routs and riots are laid aside — and Furthermore we are of opinion that if petitions for redress in a proper Channel were repeatedly and humbly presented to our King & our earnest prayers Continually put up to the King of kings the same accompanied with a uni- versal reformation this would give us reason to hope that our Priviledges wold be restored and Continued to us and that we might yet remain a happy People.' Resolves every way worthy the age of heroes and sages. "The state of affairs grew no better, and in December, the tea was thrown overboard in Boston Harbor by a party of citizens disguised as Indians, among whom was Robert Sessions, who soon afterwards settled in this town and became one of our most worthy and influential citizens. "In June, 1774, Gage filled Boston with troops, and the Com- mon was covered with tents. A special meeting of our citizens was held June 23d. The town meeting was 'very full.' Mr. John Bliss was chosen moderator. It was voted that 'Dea. Warriner Should Desire Mr. Mirick to Come and Pray accord- ingly Mr. Mirick opened S^ meeting by prayer.' This is the first record of a prayer being offered at a town meeting. ' ' ' Af er several Letters or Covenants sent from the town of Boston to the town of Wilbraham were read, it was further voted after Largely Discoursed upon that Some words Should be Dashed out in the first article in the Covenant and some be aded, voted that the Last article in the Covenant should be all Dasht out & voted there Should be words aded under the Last article in the Covenant ; voted and chose Dec" Warriner Lieut Thomas Mirick and James Warriner a Com"^ to make Enquiry to See what other towns Do before they send S*^ Covenant to the town of Boston & voted that S*^ Com'*^ should not send S'^ Covenant without further orders from S'^ town. This covenant says there being no alternative between the horrors of Slavery or the Carnage and desolation of a Civil war but a Suspension of all Commercial intercourse with the island of Great Britain, we do solemnly Covenant and engage with each other (1) that from henceforth we will Suspend all Commercial intercourse with said island of Great Britain * * * and (2) that we will not buy purchase or Consume or Suffer any person by for or under us to purchase or Consume in any manner whatever any goods weres or merchandize which shall arrive in America from Great Britain * * * * and that we will break off all trade Commerce The History of Wilbraham 121 and dealings whatever with all persons who Prefcring their own Private intrist to the Salvation of their now perishing Country^ shall still continue to Import goods from Great Britain or shall purchase of those who do Import and (3) we agree to purchase no article of merchandize of any who do not sign this covenant.' Then follow the signatures of one hundred and twenty-five patriotic men, who, it is to be presumed, were heads of families." Names of those who signed the Non-Consumption Pledge. Paul Langdon, Thomas Coleman, Noah Stebbins, Moses Warriner, Thomas King, Daniel Cad well, Jr. Jonathan Bliss, Aaron Alvord, Peleg. Woodworth, Henry Ely, Stephen Cotton, Noah Warriner, Moses Stebbins, Jr. Moses Bartlett, Jr. Nathaniel Bliss, Gabril Burnham, Jonathan Ely, Jr. Abel Bliss, Levi Bliss, Abner Badger, Calvin Stebbins, John Bliss, Ezra Barker, Joseph Chaffee, Paul Hitchcock, Rheuben Hitchcock, Moses Burt, Jr. David Warriner, Jr. Abel King, Rowland Thomas, Jonathan Sikes, Phinias Stebbins, James Warriner, John Langdon, 2d. Nathaniel Warriner,2d John Jones, Joseph Sikes, Jesse Warner, David Bliss, Joseph Abbot, Benoni Atchinson, Jr. Silas Hitchcock, 1774 John Hitchcock, Thomas Jones, Caleb Stebbins, Jr. Martin Nash, Nehemiah Abbot, Abner Warriner, Gideon Burt, Amos Hutchinson, Abner Chapin, Jr. John Chaffee, William Stacy, Jesse Lambfaire, Rowland Crocker, Thomas Lewis, Enos Stebbins, Joel Chaffee, Soloman King, John Langdon, Samuel Bartlett, Ephraim Chapin, Samuel Warner, David Perry, Lieutt. Thomas Mirick Serg't Moses Burt, Dea. Natha. Warriner, Joseph Burnham, Benoni Atchinson, Eleazer vSmith, Ser. William King, David Warriner, David Lyon, Abner Chapin, Samuel Bebee, Oliver Bliss, Gideon Kibbee, Jonathan Ely, Nathaniel Hitchcock, John Lumis, Elijah Parsons, Joseph Jones, Lewis Langdon, Jr. Isaac Dunham, Joseph Bumstead, Zadock Stebbins, Stephen Bliss, Zadock Bebee, Moses Colton, Simeon Chaffee, Moses Bartlett, Ezekiel Russel, Jabes Hendrick, Joseph Mason, Ebenezer Crocker, Samuel Dunham, Thomas Bliss, Ebenezer Stacy, John Plumbey, Nathan Ainsworth, Moses Stebbins, Samuel Sexton, Asa Chaffee, Justin Stebbins, Asa Waukor, David Chapin, William Orsborn, Zenas Jones, Benjamin Wright, Aaron Bliss, Isaac Orsborn, Ebenezar Thomas, Samuel Warner, Jr. Henry Chandler, Charles Warriner, Ephraim Wight, Ephraim Wight, Jr. Caleb Stebbins, Levi Cad well, Henry Wright, Amos Chaffee, Serg't Aaron Stebbins, Serg't Daniel Cad well, Ebenezer Bebee. 122 The History of Wilbraham These fathers of ours felt that higher wisdom than man's was needed in the "great crisis" and they finally "Resolved that as God in his providence is frowning upon the Inhabitants of this Land in the Civil Distresses which we begin to feel b° many others which we Can Easily fore bode, we think it proper to Set apart one Day in three months as a Day of fasting & prayer to All Mighty God for his help in our Deliverance and in this way Look to that being for Releif by whom Kings reign & princes decree justice, Sensable for our Encouragement that in this way God was wont to releive people of old, and that the appoint- ment of the particular Day be left to our Rev'^ Paster or the Select [men] of the town. ' ' They then ' ' voted very unanimously & Granted twenty-five pounds to provide a town Stock of ammunition as the Law directs." There were tories in town and some professedly neutral persons who needed attention, and, January 2, 1775, a commit- tee of fifteen was chosen "to see that the Continentil and Proventil Congresses associations and resolves are Strictly attended to." At the same meeting they chose "Maj. John Bliss a DeHgate for a provential Congress proposed to be held att Cambridge the first day of febuary next or Sooner if Cald for;" and chose a committee of seven "to Collect a Donation for the poor of the town of Boston and See that the Same is Transported as soon as may be." A bod}^ of "minute men" had already made "Extraordinary preparation" for "immediate Service" and that was soon to be called for and promptly rendered. General Gage, commander of the British troops in Boston, had determined to get possession of the ammunition and arms of the province which he heard were stored at Lexington and Concord. On the night of the eighteenth of April the troops stole out of Boston hoping to reach Lexington without being discovered, but the concerted signal flashed from the spire of the New North Church, and Paul Revere was instantly on his way from Charlestown to Lexington, rousing the inhabitants on the road, so that when Major Pitcairn who led the advance of the troups reached the Common he found the ' ' minute men ' ' of The History of Wilbraham 123 Lexington drawn up in arms before him. He ordered them to disperse. They stood their ground. He ordered his men to fire. That volley opened the Revolutionary War. Couriers were despatched on the fleetest horses to arouse the people everywhere and carry the flaming torch of alarm through the country. On the 20th, we may suppose, just as the sun was passing the meridian, a rider was seen coming down the Bay Road at full speed, his horse dripping and smoking with sweat, who barely checked his pace before Samuel Glover's door, and announced the fight, calling upon the "minute men" to hasten to the rescue. He was oft' and out of sight on his way to Spring- field in a moment. Blood had been shed! Glover mounts his horse and rides, as he never rode before, down by Jones's and Bliss's calling on them to come on as he goes. Brewer and Merrick, and Warriner the captain of the minute men, rush in from the field. The long roll is beaten by Charles Ferry, so that the mountain answers it from Oliver Bliss's to Noah Stebbins. Merrick mounts his horse and flies down the west road to the Hitchcocks, and the Stebbinses, the Chapins, and the Langdons, by the Scantic. Burt tells his most vigorous son to cross the mountains by Rattle snake Peak as swift as the winds ever swept over them, and rouse the Crockers, the Cones, the Russels, the Kings, and to stay not his speed till all the men of the south valley, from the corner to Isaac Morris's were sum- moned to the march; then to return without delay along the east road by the Chaffees,' Hendricks,' and Carpenters,' and over the mountains by Rev. Noah Merrick's, home. It was done as quick and as well as said. "Edward " said Isaac Morris to his son, "bring the horse." And as soon as he had shmg his powder-honi over his shoulder, put his bullets into his pocket, and taken down his trusty gun from its hooks, the faithful steed was at the door. Breathing a prayer for his heroic wife, standing by in speechless submission, he was off at full speed on the track of young Burt, and passing up the same road. Comfort Chaffee and Jesse Carpenter joined him, and rode for the mountain, while Enos Stebbins and Asa Chaffee, from south of the Scantic, rushed over to William King's and together u]j the 124 The History of Wilbraham middle road, taking Ezekiel Russell and Rowland Crocker in company, and all joined those coming up the west road and over the mountain, at the Nathaniel Warriner bam, about a half mile south of the center of our main village. Before the mountain ceased to glow with that day's departing sun, thirty-four men, with the blessing of their wives, and the prayers of the fathers who were too old to go into battle, were on the "great Bay Road," hastening on their way to defend and, if need be, to die for their rights. But the "red-coats " had returned to Boston in fewer numbers and more rapidly than they left it, and our "minute men" returned after ten days to the quiet and security of their own homes. Such was the "Lexington alarm." A company of forty-five men, thirty-four of whom were of this town, was at once organized under the command of Capt. Paul Langdon, as eight months' men; they were encamped in Roxbury and formed part of the army which besieged Boston. It is evident that a very close watch was kept upon those who were suspected of faithlessness in heart or weakness in knee, for, at a town meeting, September 2, 1776, an unsuccessful attempt was made, after a "Large Debate" to remove "L*^ Wm. King and Mr. Enos Stebbins" from the committee "of Correspondence, Inspection and safety & in the rome and Sted thereof Chuse two other members for S"" Com"*"." The Article to see if the town ' ' will immediately furnish themselves with a town stock of ammunishon & fire arms if it can be procured" was also "past over & not acted upon." In the autumn of 1776, there was fear of an invasion from Canada, and the town furnished thirty-two men, under the command of Capt. Daniel Cadwell, who rendered ser\'ice "at Ticonderoga from December 5, 1776, to April 2, 1777." The town, as well as the whole state, was startled September, 1776, by what was called the Bennington Alarm, and a company of fifty-two men, under the command of Capt. James Shaw, left town September 24, for the seat of danger. They were present on the opposite side of the river at the surrender of Burgoyne at Saratoga. As there was no call for further service, they returned The History of Wilbraham 125 and were discharged, October 18, after a campaign of only thirty-two days. The next November the town voted to pay the soldiers who marched on the alarm towards Bennington, £ 11. It was found very difficult, after the first gush of patriot- ism was spent, to obtain men for the war, especially for any long period of service, and £ 12 bounty was offered for volunteers, March 18, 1777, to fill up the town's quota of "every seventh man." From organizing the militia, and furnishing soldiers for the army, the town turns to framing a constitution; and instruc- tions were given. May 23, "to [Maj. John] Bhss and [Capt John] Shaw," representatives from the town, to form "Such a Constitution of Government as other Representatives of this State in one body with the Council Shall Judge best Calculated to promote the happiness of this State," which body they are directed to join; but they are "to take head in all their doings and be Strictly careful in forming Said Constitution that the JUST RIGHTS, Liberties & Priviledges of the people in general be well guarded 0° Secured against all unjust Incroach- ments whatever * * * that in all their proceedings they have Special recorse (as an assistance) to a Little book or Pamplet Intitled 'The People the best Governors, or a Plan of Government, &c.,' " and finally, that "they use their influence and endeavors that such acts or Laws as have ben already anacted and are like to prove hurtful to this or any State be amended or repealed." Jealousy of power in the hands of government is shown most distinctly in these instructions, and will be found deeply ingrained in the very hearts of our fathers all through their history. At this time, the trouble with the depreciating paper currency begins to make its appearance. Silver coin, in which taxes must be paid, could not be obtained except at a high premium, and it was very difficult, almost impossible, for the people to pay their taxes. Instructions are therefore given by the town, November 21, 1777, to Col. John Bliss and Capt. John Shaw, representatives, "to use their influence to repeal the act made for Calling in the States monev." 126 The History of Wilbraham The sufferings of the soldiers in the field and of their families at home were becoming so severe as to call for the action of the town, and at a meeting, held January 5, 1778, five men were chosen a committee ' ' to Collect Donations for the Continential Soldiers belonging to this town." And "L' John Hitchcock, Lewis Langdon and L' Ebenezer Russel" were "chosen a com- mittee to take care of those families that their husbands are gone into the war for the term of three years or During the war." The constitution or frame of government which had been framed for the state during the past year was submitted to the people for acceptance, and this town, March 26th, 1778, voted against it, "24 votes in favor and 51 against." There is no record of its objectionable features. A call was made upon the town for its quota of seven men to join General Washington's army at Fiskhill, New York, and a bounty of £ 60 was offered, May 11, 1778, to those who should volunteer; and if none volunteered, the same sum was to be given to the seven men who might be drafted. Two days after, at another town meeting, clothing was voted to the soldiers "equal to one- seventh part of the inale Inhabitants agreeable to a late act of the General Court." Also an article, in a warrant for a town meeting to be held in August "to see if the town will make Choise of Some person or persons to procure Shirts, Shoes and Stockings for the Continential Soldiers agreeable to a Late act of the general court of this State." There is no record of choosing such a committee. The town clerk was absent and a clerk pro tern officiated. It is probable he did not make full returns, for money is appropriated at the November meeting "to pay for cloathing procured for the Continential Souldiers, £ 101, and for one pair of shoes omitted for a Continential Soldier £ 2, 25." The difficulty of raising men increased as the war went on. Paper money was rapidly depreciating, and the volunteer coiild not rely, for a month, upon the nominal value of his pay. The town endeavored to obviate this difficulty by offering grain, at a fixed price, instead of paper money, to all who would "Inlist." It was voted, June 22, 1779, "that Each man who would The History of Wilbraham 127 Inlist into the Continental army for the Term of nine month and Join the Continental Army for that Term for Each months Service they shall have Forty Shillings Pr. month, wheat at 6s. Pr. Bushel, Rie at 4 Shillings Pr. bushel, Com at 3 shillings Pr. Bushel, oats at 1 s. 6 d Pr Bushel, wool at 2 Shillings Pr Pound, flax at lOd. Pr. Pound in addition to their Continental Pay & State Bounty." A committee is chosen "to procure the above articles," and to draw on the treasury for money. After an adjournment of half an hour, apparently for free consulta- tion, wheat is put at "4 s. Pr. Bushel, Rie at 3 shillings Pr. Bushel and Indian Com at 2 Shillings Pr Bushel. " The meeting adjoumed for half an hour, then for six days, when it is "voted, June 28, that, if men do not volunteer, the men who are drafted shall have the same bounties;" and, also, to quicken action, it is "voted that this town will advance 200 dollars advance pay to be Reducted out of their forty ShilHngs a month according as the above S^ Committee Shall adjudge Right and Equitable Between the Town and Said Soldiers." Agreeable to the advice of the delegates, who met at Concord, another convention is called to form a new constitution for the state to meet at Cambridge, and Capt. Phineas Stebbins was chosen "Deligate," August 16, and the following carefully pre- pared instmctions were given him — which show most signally that our fathers were scmpulously, if not wisely, jealous of the personal rights of the people and of the power of the govem- ment,— namely, " (1) As to the Choice of Govenor Lieut. Govemor and Counsil that they be Chosen Annually by the people; (2) That all Civil officers be Chosen Annually by the People ; (3) That no Town in this State be allowid to send more then two Representatives in one year to the General Court; (4) that no Civil officer be a Legislative Officer at the same time • (5) that all of the above officers Shall be Professors of the Protestant Religion." Thus instructed, their "Deligate" joined his associates at Cambridge on the first Wednesday of September. The prices of commodities had become so irregular and uncer- tain that an invitation was sent out from a " Committee who set 128 The History of Wilbraham at South Hadley, Signed E. Porter," to the towns "To choose Delegates to meet in convention at Northampton to adopt a scale of prices which shall be uniform and permanent." " Lieut. John Hitchcock and Doctor Sam'l F. Merrick" were chosen Delegates. In September, a committee of eight is chosen to take their report into consideration, and to report "to the Town what they think the Prices of the Several Articles (therein set down) ought to be." No report was made by this committee. It was found, probably, that the subject was too complex to admit of the application of any specific rules. The enemies of their country grow bolder as the burdens of the war increase, and renewed vigilance is demanded of the friends of freedom. A committee of seven was chosen in Sep- tember "To TAKE CARE OF PERSONS IN THIS TOWN SuSPECTED TO BE Enemical TO THE AMERICAN States," and they are ' ' directed to demean themselves according to the Present Laws of this State." The difficulties which hindered the raising of men continued to accumulate. The demand was imperative, the work well- nigh iiTipossible. A desperate rally was made in October, and £ 400 were raised for the soldiers' bounty and mileage money, and subscriptions were opened that the money might be promptly obtained, the sums subscribed to be deducted from the taxes of the persons subscribing. Forty-three names are recorded as subscribers. Lieut. John Hitchcock subscribed the largest sum, fifty-five dollars. The following are the names of the Subscribers for Soldiers' Bounty: "Mr. Sam" Warner $50. Lt. Gideon Kibbe 10 Lt. Eben., Russel $40. Mr. John Firmin 7 Mr. Eleazer Smith 6. Serg' Daniel Cadwell 30 Col. John Bliss 45. Mr. Moses Stebbins 39 Mr. Latham Burdick 7. Lt. Thomas King 30 Lt. John Hitchcock 55. Mr. Lewis Landgon $20 Mr. Rowland Crocker 20. Moses Stebbins, Jr. 8 Capt. Abel King 40. William Brewer 20 Serg' Philip Lion 40. Lt. Jesse Warner 50 Mr. Wm. Stacy 14. Serg't Gideon Burt 10 Mr. John Williams 38. Capt. Paul Langdon 40 Mr. Ezekiel Russel 30. Joshua Edy 30 Lt. Noah Stebbins 17. Mr. Joel Chaffee 7. The History of Wilbraham 1-29 Sergt John Langdon 20. : David Warriner, Jr. 32 Lt. Wilham King 6. Chileab B. Merrick 30 Gams Brewer 30. I Thomas Maxon 30 Mr. Comfort Chaffee 6. Noah Warriner oq Serg't David Bliss 20. ' John Glover 30' Jonathan Bliss 20. ; Mr. David Burt .50" Benoni Atchinson, Jr. 20. Doct. Sam. F. Mirick 30 William King, Jr. 50 ! Mr. Asa Chaffee 10. I Attest, NOAH WARRINER, Moses Burt, Jr. 20. Towtt Clerk." In November the town voted £ 2,860 (the sum shows how paper money had depreciated) to the soldiers gone for nine months. The war is drawing to a close. Washington succeeded in shutting Lord Cornwallis up in Yorktown, and the whole British army, under his command, surrendered October 19, 1781. But the heart of the King was not softened, and men and money, and beef and blankets, and shoes and stockings were yet needed and demanded. The town granted, October 13, 1781, £ 8,000 to procure 8,310 cwt. of beef, and in November they granted £ 2,000 more to finish the purchase, directing their committee "To give no more than one hundred & twentv pound pr. hundred for S^ beef." In the same month, November 23, 1781, the town "voted that the Committee pay out all the money Granted for the nine months Soldiers at 80 Dollar;^ pr. bushel for wheat, 50 dollars pr. bushel for rie, 33 Dollars and two shillings pr. bushel for Indian corn, that is not paid out." In answer to the call for fifteen men for three years, or during the war, it was voted that "150 silver dollars or paper at the exchange" be paid to each man who enHsts. It is evident enough from these prices that patriotism was no more fervent and self-sacrificing in those days than it is in ours. More beef is demanded, and £480 "new Corency" is voted "to procure 15,957 cwt. of beef." The difficulty of obtaining silver with which to pay the State Tax had so increased that the wisest could not tell how to procure the money, and the boldest were ready to repudiate the tax. A committee was chosen, February 26, 1782, to petition the General Court about the "Silver rate and all other grievances." They presented their petition to an 130 The History of Wilbraham adjourned meeting ten days after. It was "Sagely Debated," but as the meeting was small, no vote was taken at that time, but at the next meeting it was voted to send the petition ; then the vote was reconsidered, and after debating the subject at five adjourned meetings, continued into April, the meeting was dissolved. These particulars indicate the strong feeling which was growing up in the town respecting the deranged condition of the State and national finances. Soldiers could not be raised in the usual way, and the town was divided into classes, and a soldier assigned to each class. Fifteen districts were made of the town, according to population or wealth, and each one of these districts furnished a man, either of their own number or from some other place, or paid the fine imposed for noncompliance, which at this time was about £45. As the town could not pay the money in hand which they had agreed to give the soldiers on entering the service, they gave a note for the principal, and paid the interest. The town is also required to furnish 6,585 cwt. more beef, and £132 are granted, July 25, to purchase it. A new requisition of men is made, and it is voted to give the soldiers who were to serve for three months " 50 s. per month and they draw their own wages [i. e. of the State or nation] or £4 per month and the town draw their wages" and also voted to pay "each soldier 40 s. before he march." The men could not be obtained; and a week after, the town granted 20 s. in addition to the £ 4 per month, and voted that "each soldier be paid £ 3 before he marches," and to pay the whole £ 180. In November, £ 60 more are granted to purchase the balance of the beef of the old requisition, and £140 to purchase what a new requisition required; and in pay- ing rates it is voted that one Silver Dollar Should answer 75 Dollars" [in paper money]. It becomes more and more difficult to raise money; and the town in their perplexity and distress went so far, May 12, 1783, after the treaty of peace had been signed, as to vote to " Instruct their Representative not to grant Congress the impost Re- quested by them for the express purpose of raising a revenue Independent of the States nor to supply Congress any way untill The History of Wilbraham 181 the half pay to the officers of the army in the Communication thereof be settled and entirely given up." The war closed, but not the financial difficulties. Paper money sank in value rapidly, sank to worthlessness very soon. It would not pay debts, nor buy bread! The attempt to collect debts in silver which were contracted in paper currency was calculated to provoke a rebellion. A man who borrowed a hundred dollars must pay four thousand or lose his farm. The first emission became worthless after the issue of the second. A pound of the bills was not worth a pound of butter. "Eldad Stebbins was constable in 1776. There is a tradition preserved among the papers of Calvin Stebbins to this efifect : — The depreciation of paper money was such that he, having lost an ox, took the town's money in his hands, and bought a pair of oxen, for forty dollars, and before he was required to make his final settlement with the town treasurer, cider would sell for twelve dollars a mug, — three and one-third mugs of cider would pay, did pay, for the oxen." Creditors began to press their helpless debtors. Silver, the only legal tender, could not be had. The unprincipled took advantage of the times and forced the payment of debts, secur- ing liens on real estate worth immensely more than the amount of the real indebtedness. The courts were thronged. It is said that twelve hundred suits were presented at one term of the court at Northampton. There was no peace, though peace was proclaimed. Men who had poured out their blood, either from their own veins or from those of their sons, were now to be deprived of the farms they had cleared, the houses they had built. The blessings of liberty and prosperity, for which they had fought, seemed to be escaping their grasp. Their own friends seemed to have become foes. The people were enraged, and their rage was fanned into a consuming flame by deluded and designing demagogues, and especially by one Samuel Ely, a discarded minister, who had preached for a time in Somcrs. In regard to this Samuel Ely. I find that he had been preaching as a candidate at Somers, Conn., previous to 17G9, and a council 132 The History of Wilbraham had been called to ordain him as a minister but had refused to do so, but he had continued preaching. Among papers left by John Bliss, Esq., of South Wilbraham, I find that another council was called for the same purpose. The following is part of their report. "April 12, 1769, Council called at Somers Ct. to ordain Mr Samuel Ely as Minister and reported against it." Eight reasons were given why they refused. Part of the 7th reason is: " Mr. Ely appears to us to be totally void of the most esential qualifications to a Gospel A-Iinister and to be at best but a Novice." "8/A He has used some of the most Horrid and abomniable Expressions in some of his Sermons, as for Instance 'That if God is the author of Sin the hotest place in Hell is too good for Him,' and at another time said this to his audience: 'I have done my duty, God will do his, and if you dont do yours You will be Damned' Sec." (Signed) Sam" Raynolds, Daniel Sexton, John Fuller, Noah Chapin, Charles Sheldon, Stephen Holmes Scribe of S'^ Council." In April, 1782, a mob led by Ely disturbed the holding of the court at Northampton. He was arrested and im- prisoned at Springfield but was released by a mob. Feb- ruary 22, 1782, "Deacon John Hitchcock, Dr. John Stems, and Abner Chapin were chosen Delicates to set in a county convention, to be holden in Hatfield on the first Tuesday in April next." Suits became more and more vexatious, and money more and more worthless. In October, 1783, another delegate was chosen — Dr. John Steams — -"to set in a County Convention to be holden in Hatfield at the Dwelling house of Colonel Seth Murry." The tumult increased in different parts of the state, and arms were not seldom resorted to by the mob. In April 25, 1786, Capt. Phineas Stebbins and Mr. David Burt were chosen delegates to sit in a county convention at Hatfield ; and in August of the same year " Lt. Noah Stebbins is chosen to Represent the town" in another convention to be held at the same place; and in the ensuing, November, Elijah Parsons is chosen to represent the town in a convention to be held in The History of Wilbraham 133 Hadley the next day. So the flames raged. Soon after this time, Luke Day, of West Springfield, had organized his forces, on the west of the river, and Daniel Shays was coming on, with what forces he could muster, from the east. It was the purpose of these men to take the arsenal, on the hill at Springfield, and seize the arms. General Shepard had assembled about 1,000 loyal men at Springfield to defend the arsenal, and General Lincoln was pressing on with his army from Worcester. It was important that Shays, and Day, who had 1,900 men, should attack General Shepard before General Lincoln could reinforce him. On the 24th of January, Shays reached Wilbraham and spent the night, with his soldiers quartered on the inhabitants. That day he had sent a messenger with a letter to Day to be ready for the fight the next day; but the messenger, on his way back, pinched with the cold, went into a tavern in Spring- field to warm himself, and some young men present, suspecting all was not right, so plied him with friendly draughts that they soon put him into a drunken sleep and got from his pocket Day's letter to Shays, saying that he could not fight till the 26th. Of this Shays knew nothing. But worse was to befall him. The men of Wilbraham were not idle. "Asaph King, at that time deputy sheriff, Col. Abel King, Dr. Samuel F. Merrick, and Dea. Noah Warriner met to devise a way of conveying to General Shepard intelligence of the proximity of the force. It was at last decided that the job belonged to the sheriff. On the morning of the 25"^, Shays moved toward Springfield, 'on the Bay Road;' when King mounted a splendid young horse, that stood saddled in his bam, and started him across the fields to the 'stony hill road.' The snow, knee-deep to his horse, was covered with a crust, and he was obliged, in some instances, not only to make a path for his horse, but to pull down or leap fences. When he came out upon the road, the legs of his horse were streaming with blood. He was far ahead of Shays, and, spurring on, reached the arsenal in forty-five minutes from the time he left Wilbraham." Shepard now learned all the particvi- lars of the number and proximity of the force of Shays, which were important to him, and prej^ared to meet him. The 134 The History of Wilbraham marching was bad, and Shays did not make his appearance on the road till about four o'clock in the afternoon. After some parleying, and some boasting on the part of Shays, his column moved on toward the loaded cannon of Shepard, who had threatened to fire if he did not halt. The insurgents passed on, not believing that Shepard would dare to fire. It was no time for dallying; yet Shepard, to show all possible forbearance, fired first to the right, then to the left, then over the heads of the column. But still they came on, the harmless roar of the cannon frightening the village more than the insurgents. They are within fifty rods of the battery, and pressing on. It was now time to fire in earnest. The cannon are trained on the centre of the column ; the match is whisked in the air ; the column comes on; the priming is touched; the smoke belches forth, and the shots fly. Soon the smoke lifts. The column is broken and flying, crying, "Murder!" Three men lie dead, and four are mortally wounded. Shays could not rally his men, and they fled with the utmost precipitation till the scattered column, the disorganized mob, reached Ludlow, where they spent the night. I am not aware that any Wilbraham men joined Shays; but John Langdon, the hero of two wars, then over sixty years of age, who was in Shepard's army, used to take keen delight in narrating how, with his old "Queen's Arm" at his eye, he frightened a whole squad of Shays-men to throw down their arms and surrender. The insurrection was, soon after this, wholly put down. The insurgents dispersed to their homes, and an amnesty almost general was declared. By special legislation the pecuniary affairs of the state were adjusted so as to relieve to a great extent the sufferings of the people, and soon prosperity filled the purses and gamers of the town. The popularity of Shays was very great, however, among some people, and, as late as forty years after the rebellion, "Hurrah for Shays!" was as common an exclamation, in the mouths of many persons, as "Hurrah for Jackson!" was twenty years later. The great struggle for independence is over; The rebellion' consequent on a state of universal bankruptcy, is put down; the constitution of the state is adopted; the ordinary channels The History of Wilbraham 135 of business are opening to the enterprising; prosperity, peace, and happiness succeed the poverty, tumult, and anxiety of war. It is reported that there were a few Wilbraham men in the mob of Shays. There were many of our men with General Shepard. Nine Chafifees are said to have answered to the roll- call of Shepard 's army, on the morning of the battle. As their names were called in succession, it caused no little amusement : "Asa Chaffee, Asa Chaffee, Jr., Comfort Chaffee, Comfort Chaffee, Jr.," etc. It is also reported that four or five men from the south part of the town, who were on their way to join the insurgents, were met near the Sessions place, by one who was returning from the affair, and informed that Shays was defeated, and that, "it is all over." There is a curious story about the Deacon Nathaniel Warriner house, in connection with the Shays Rebellion. On the after- noon of the 24th of January, the day that Shays had quartered his soldiers for the night on the people of Wilbraham, he sent an outpost, or picket, of four men down to that house. The four men went over the house to see that everything was safe and clear for their stay over night. They found the door to the north front chamber locked. They knew the chamber was occupied by someone, because of sounds they had heard, but their demand for admittance was not answered. After shaking the door in an effort to open it, one of them said, "Let's smoke him out ! " "Smoke him out " they all shouted. They climbed up on to the roof, put a wet blanket over the north flue of the chimney, put more fuel on the fire that was already burning in the fireplace downstairs, and rushed back to the locked chamber door. The smoke from the fire below poured out through the fire place in the room above, and filled it with the stifling fumes. The door flew open and a woman, carrying a boy about half a year old, staggered out from the smoke filled chamber, choking and gasping for breath. They had succeeded in "smoking him out," but he wasn't very dangerous to them, and I believe they apologized for the trouble they had made. I have always thought there must have been some reason for that woman's 136 The History of Wilbraham act, and it may be that it was done to keep those men of Shays engaged around the Warriner house, while sheriff Asaph King and the others mentioned were holding their conference in a near-by house, to arrange a way to inform General Shepard of their presence. I insert here a copy of Dr. Merrick's Journal, as printed in the "Stebbins History." JOURNAL OF SAMUEL F. MERRICK, M. D. ON THE Expedition of the Wilbraham Company AT THE "Bennington Alarm." 1777. Sept. 29. About two in the afternoon set out from home on an expedition to the northern army, arrived at Spring- field, tarried till night then dismissed till to morning nine o'clock passed the river with Leut. King in order to lodge with Uncle Merrick. 30, met according to order and after deliberat- ing till about four o'clock we proceeded on our march. Leut. King returned to bring up the rear. Went to my uncles to lodge again the company proceeded forward. Oct. 1 about nine o'clock set out, overtook the company at Peas, went in company with them about four miles, put up at Crockers lodged at the next house. Oct. 2. Seargant Lamb and Brewer with Solomon Warriner & myself proceeded forward in order to put out our horses, went as far as Lanesborough, after much difficulty got entertainment at one Powels near the middle of the town 3d Turned to the Eastward Bush Meadow, after much diffi- culty got our horses put out at East Hoosuch at Major Roger Rose where we lodged. 4th Took my horse in to Williamstown, sent him back to S"^ Rose and marched on foot about four miles on the road to Bennington then turned to the left and went about six miles to one Co' Plat. 6th Set out in the morning and arrived there soon, found that our troops were all ordered up the River, Ordered to encamp until further orders. In the afternoon heard canon briskly toward head quarter; very anxious to hear the event. 8 This morning an express arrived from head quarters informing that Gen. Gates had caried sundry Redoubts & all the Enemys out lines and twas expected by the motions that they would retreat soon, likewise with orders for us to Press The History of Wilbraham 137 forward with all dispatch, accordini^ly half after twelve we marcht and travilled till sunset about twelve miles. 9 Gen. Barly from N. Hampshire lodged in the same house with us last night, two expresses arrived informing us that the enemy were actually on the retreat, orders for us to make no delay in order to harass them upon their retreat, set out very early and arrived at Batter Hill before noon about three miles from Saratoga, a very rainy afternoon, soon after our arrival there was an alarm that the Enemy was upon us, but it proved to be false. 10 Lodged in a com house last night, about midnight there was another allann but this likewise Proved false. In the morning concluded to join Col. Porter, but before we did he marched down to the river, we followed on but was ordered more to the southward, which we obeyed and reconoitering the shore found a boat ashore which we were guarding when a num- ber of others came floating down which we took, lodged here this night. 12. Continue still to guard the boats, the Enemy are now about a mile below the church, there has been a scattering fire ever since the retreat began and still continues nothing material hapening the army excepting Gen Gates sent in a flagg demand- ing a surrender, but I have heard no answer. This morning Gen. Nickson made an attack upon the enemy but by mistake Gen Learned who was to attack them in the west at the same time delayed about fifteen minutes after a severe fire a few minutes was obliged to retreat. 14 Ordered that there be a cessation of amis til sun set. Sundry fiaggs passing back and forth, in the evening reported that Gen. Burgoine had agreed to resign himself and army Prisoners of War, to march out to morrow morning. 15 Went over to Saratoga in expectation of seeing the Enemy march out, and after waiting the whole day was obliged to return without having my expectations answered but with great confidence reported that the stipulation was aclualh- signed and that it was to take place to morrow. 16 Waiting to see the army march out but by some reason or other is delayed, towards evening heard that it was put off till to morrow. 17 A day never to be forgotten by the American States. About Eleven O clock A. M. Gen. Burgoine with a number of Other officers rode out, escorted by sundry officers of the Continental army and a little south of the church was met by Gen. Gates, and after a polite compliment proceeded to head quarters; 138 The History of Wilbraham about two the army began to march out. I taried till after four when I returned. They had not all then marched out, but I believe nearly, the number can by no means ascertain but should be inclined to think between five and six thousand but I am by no means a competent judge, tho' I had a good view of them. The Lord be praised for this wonderful token of divine favor for which we cannot be sufficiently thankfull." SOLDIERS OF WILBRAHAM WHO SERVED IN THE REVOLUTIONARY WAR (Copied from the Stebbins History.) "Dec. 5"^ 1775. "A Roll of Capt. James Warriner's Company of Wilbraham who marched in defence of Ammerican Liberty on y'^ Alarm last April occasioned by '^e Lexington Fight. Time of service, ten days: "James Warriner Capt. W™ King Lit. John Hitchcock Lit. Enos Stebbins vSt Thos King St Aaron Alvard S' Elea-- Smith Sam" Day josh Chaffee Sam" Mirick Asa Chaffee Isaac Morris Moses Colton ChiUab Mirick Jon^ Cooley Isaac Dunahm Ezekiel Russell Reuben Thayer Benj. Farnham Comfort Chaffee Jesse Warner Jesse Carpenter Jos^i Jones Rowland Crocker Darius Chaffee Eben^ Cadwell Joshua Eddy Enos Clark Ezeki Wright Calvin Stebbins Thos Coleman Gideon Burt Abel King Charles Brewer Benj. Colton John Stearns "A return of Capt. Paul Langdon's Company, in Col. David- son's Reg' — on Command at Quebeck Oct. 6, 1775: "Paul Langdon, Capt. Daniel Cadwell l^^ Lieut. Noah Warriner Sargt. John Langdon " Philip Lyon " Aaron Stebbins Corp. Othniel Hitchcock" Charles Ferry Drum"" Abner Warriner fifer Daniel Carpenter Aaron Cadwell Jonathan Sikes Seth Clark Abner Chapin Nathan Sikes Moses Simons Phanuel Warner John Langdon 2"^ Daniel Simons Simon Stacy John W. Chaffee Ephraim Wright Disch^ John Davis Reuben Shayler Nathaniel Mighets Ephraim Dunham Ephraim Wight Jr. Dis. Benjamin Chubb Dead Moses Rood Eli Beebe Simeon Bates Joseph Dunham Also thirteen others not residents of Wilbraham. The History of Wilbraham 139 "Service at Ticonderoga, Dec. 5, 1776 to Apr. 2, 1777. Capt. Daniel Cadwell's Co. Col. Tim" Robinson'^ Detachment: "Daniel Cadwell, Capt. Daniel Parsons, 1^' L^^ Robert McMaster, 2 Lt John Colton, Sr. Joseph Abbott John McKlewain Sr. Stephen Wright " Medad vStebbins Cor. Abner Warner " Aaron Colton " Joseph Colton " Judah Moore Dr. William Colton Filer Luther Bliss Ebenezer Beebe Steward Beebe Zadock Beebe Jesse Carpenter Asa Chaffee Amos Chaffee John Hancock Jabez Hancock John Hitchcock Isaac Morris Moses Stebbins James Shaw Samuel Warner Daniel Chapin Judah Chapin Jesse Lampeare John Stebbins Perez Hitchcock "180 miles travel £7. 7S. bounty "99 Days Service "Wages per month 60S. "Bennington Alarm, 1777: "Capt. James Shaw's Companv. Charles Pvnchon Esq. Col. Sep. 24, to Oct. 18. Time of service 32 davs:" "James Shaw, Capt. Noah Stebbins, Lieut. Eben"" Colton " Joseph Sexton Sergt. Charles Ferry " Gad Lamb " Gaius Brewer " Josiah Cooley Cor'. Aaron Chan well " Abenor Chapin " Calvin Stebbins, fifer Gordin Percival Samuel F. Merrick Edward Colton Jon^i Leech Jon=i Merrick Luther Hitchcock Benj. Howard Solomon Loomis Geo. Cooley Nath' Warner David Bliss Asa Jones Solomon Warriner Phinehas Hitchcock Comfort Chaffee Timothy Worthington Daniel Sweetland Solomon Lothrop Oliver King, Lieut. Jabin Cooley David Wood John Chaterton Luther Cooley Reuben Warriner Israel Chapin, Lieut. John Colton Lem' Whitney Elijah Parsons Judah Ely John Langdon Edward Morris Jesse Lamphere Aaron Stebbins Judah Willey Isaac Morris David White Matthew Keep Asa Simonds Aaron Howard Zadock Stebbins 140 The History of Wilbraham Eight Months' Service, 1778: "In Capt. Malcom Henry's Co. Coh David Brewer's Regi- ment. "Levi Bannister fifer. Paul Newton In Capt. Isaac Colton's Co. Solomon King Luther King fifer. Samuel Calking, Drafted Daniel Colton Jonathan Policy " "Nine Months' Service, 1778: "Lewis Langdon John Colkins Moses Albert John Russell John Huntley Joseph Cutt, a negro. Zadoc Benton "Moses Albert did not pass muster, having lost half of one of his feet. "Six months' Soldiers, serving in the Continental Army of the United States in 1780: "David Allin, Ebenezer Thomas, Joseph Bumpstead, Daniel Mason, Gad Warriner, Zenas Cone, John James Sikes, John White, Gains Stebbins, Reuben Abbott, Isaiah Chaffee, Stephen Simons, Ethan Smith, Titus Amidown, Kittridge Davis, Seth Warner, Henry Wright, Emmons Lillie, John Orcutt, "In Continental Army for three years, about 1778: "Jonas Banton, Nathaniel Hitchcock, Samuel Lyon, John Raymont, Asa Woodworth, Peleg Burdick, Phineas Mason. "The following served at some time under Capt. John Car- penter : "Nathan Ainsworth, Jotham Carpenter, Chester Morris, John Amidown, Phillip Lyon, Johnson Richardson, Isaiah Chaffee, Reuben Carpenter, James Richardson, Josiah Langdon. "In Capt. Abel King's Co. Col. Ashley's Regiment: "Jesse Elwell, Jabez Percival, John White, Eliphalet Hodges, Johnson Richardson, Francis West. "In Capt. J. Woodbridge's Co. Col. Tyler's Regiment: "Caesar Mirick, a negro. Gains Stebbins, Oliver Sexton. The History of Wilbraham 141 "In Capt. Joseph Browning's Co. Col. Murray's Regiment: "Asa Hill, John Thwing, Israel Conant. "In Capt. Reuben Munn's Co. Col. Nathan Dvke's Regt. 1776: "Daniel Bliss, Sergt., James Eddy, Aaron Hitchcock, Zadock Stebbins, Corp., John Russell, Gamaliel Dunham, Jos. Bumpstead, Drummer, Peleg Burdick. "In Capt. Phineas Stebbins Co. P^ Hampshire County Regt: "Lieut. Gideon Kibbe. He also served as Lieut, in Capt. Samuel Burt's Co. Col Elisha Porter's Regt. POWDER HORN. Carried in the Revolutionary War by Lieut. Gideon Kibbe, 1776. His home was near the southwest corner of the original town of Wilbraham. "Soldiers who died or were killed in the Revolutionar\^ War: "Benjamin Chob, 1775 Malam Dunham, 1776 Solomon King, " Joseph Butler, " Nathaniel Miles, 1776 Daniel Warriner, 1777 Phanuel Warner, Capt. Dan. Cadwell " George Mirick, Serj. Joseph Abbott " Aaron Bliss, Samuel Lyon 1778 Joseph Morris, Moses Simons 17S0 Benjamin Russell John Chaffee " Josiah Wright Luther Ainsworth " Joshua Leach Isaac Skinner, by Indians " "In all, 20. Killed in battle, 4. Died by disease, 16. 142 The History of Wilbraham "Revolutionary Pensioners: "Ezra Barton, Henry Wright, Levi Thayer, Samuel F. Mirick, $30.00 per year 96.00 " " 96.00 " " 246.66 " " Asaph King, Capt. Shield, Walbridge, Lewis, 180.00 " " 120.00 " " 80.00 " " 96.00 " " Samuel Lyman, 33.33 " " David Stebbins, $24.00 per year. Samuel Chapin, 24.00 Stephen Merril, 24.00 Learned, 96.00 Chaffee, 24.00 Reuben Hitchcock24.00 John Hamlin, 96.00 Charles Cooley, 36.00 Robert Sessions 48.00 Names of men in the war of 1812, for seven months: Ralph Bennett, Eleazar Hitchcock, Phineas Burr, Stephen Cad well, Robert Sessions, Solomon Jones, Joel M. Lyman. "THE GREEN" SCHOOL HOUSE ON "THE GREEN." District No. 3. Among the papers of Col. John Bliss of South Wilbraham, I have found the following Petition. It relates to the triangular piece of land in our town, known as "The Green." The school- house of District No. 3, is now located on it. An Act of the The History of Wilbraham 143 Legislature was necessary to permit the erection of the school- house there. "Wilbraham April 25"' 1769, to the meeting of the Inhabit- ants of the town of Wilbraham this Day Convened. "Gentlemen there is a Comer or Wedge of Land being part of the overplus Land belonging to the Second or Middle Divi- sion of the Outward Commons so Called Containing about one acre more or Less and now uninclosed the same Bounded west upon the principal Highway in this town by Serg' Burts and there is in wedth near nine rods and runs thence Easterly about Fifty rods and ends in a point and also Lyeth South of the Highway which runs east and west upon the Said Overplus Land We, the subscribers therefore pray that this meeting will pass a vote that the said wedge of Land may be appropriated for the use of this town as Common Land or Highway." "Voted and Established as before mentioned." There was a library in Wilbraham much earlier than in many of the surrounding towns. I have not learned all I would like to know about it. I suppose that Solomon Warriner, the librarian, lived on the west side of Main Street, in the fourth house north of the Tinkham Road, where Mr. L. L. Stone lives now. At a later period there were libraries in some of the school districts. That in District No. 12, (now District No. 3) was kept by Reuben Pease, in his shoemaker's shop, on the east side of Main Street, which stood a little north of his house, now owned by the heirs of his son, George Pease, and occupied by Mrs. Miller. I drew books from that library about 1854. The school in that district was then held in the house now occupied as a dwelling by Rev. J. G. WilHs. WILBRAHAM LIBRARY Evidently individuals bought shares in the same. Solomon Warriner, Librarian. I find 13 receipts, now in possession of C. S. Merrick, of some who sold their shares to others. (Copies of a few) "Januarv "''" 7—1782 "To the Libryarian of the Libry Company of the town of 144 The History of Wilbraham Wilbraham or any others that itt may Conserne this may Sertify that I have Sold to L' Jonathan Mirick my Rite In S^ Libry I therefore Desire you to Deale out to him as you would to me this from yours ^, . . ^ Phmeas JNewton "This is to Sertify that I have sold my Wright in the Libery to Mr Daniel Hungerfoard the Bearer of these Lines; I desire you would Discord my name and Record his in the Room thereof in so doing you will Oblige yours &c Isaac Colton "Wilbraham November the 16">"l789 "To Mr. Solomon Warriner Libarien" "Springfield May V 1786 "To the Library Company of the Town of Wilbraham Gent" I beg to inform you, that at the time of the last meeting when I should have Carried my book in, the going was so bad on account of Crust upon the snow that it was almost impos- sible to have got there without going four or five miles round and the Same reason may (be) given for the other book which I have sent with mine draw** by John Passo (?) on Justin Cooley right, I suppose, and as the Books are not very Valuable I suppose it was no great damage. I shall take it Very kindly if the meeting will excuse me & except the Books now "In so doing Gent" you will much oblige vour most obedient & hum" Ser' John H or ton" " I do here By Convey unto Gains Brewer one Wright of my Libery in Wilbraham ; & have Rec*^ my pay and I would have you know? accordinglv to Solomon Warriner Libreian "Springfield March" 13, 1789 Joel Day" "Somers Sept 5 1781 "These Certifie all whom It may Concern that Mr. Charles Sheldon of Somers hath purchased my Interest In Wilbraham Librarv. Sam"Allis" SONG OF THE HOE In the Stebbins History, at the foot of page 301, it says; "Josiah Langdon was a man of literary taste, and wrote con- siderable poetry in his day. His 'Song of the Hoe' is the best The History of Wilbraham 145 known." I am informed that the origin of the story was about as follows : Stephen Newell, grandfather of Alonzo B. Newell, of the present town of Hampden, loaned a hoe to one of his neighbors, who did not return it for more than a year, and not until he had been repeatedly requested to do so. He finally brought it back, in the middle of a summer night, and placed the hoe against the kitchen door, with the handle resting on the door- step. When Mr. Newell opened the door in the morning, the hoe, broken and worthless, fell in upon the kitchen floor. I have secured a copy of the "Song" and insert it here. THE OLD HOE— AN EPIGRAM Good morning, Dear Master, you see I am come, 'Twas late in the evening before I got home, I found you were sleeping — I tho't I'd not wake you For fear you would think twas a Sheriff to take you. So here I've been standing these five hours or more. This long Summer evening — to enter your door. Long time I've been missing, but now I return. And for my misconduct I heartily mourn. Now into your favor if you'll receive me, I'll always prove faithful and constant to thee. Like the hound in the fable my teeth are worn out, Therefore don't correct me for this saucy bout. But remember when young, I hoed all your com, You ne'er had a better hoe since you were bom. You've often enquired who hoed with me last, But no one remembered when since it was past. The man whom you lent me to used me so bad, I ran away from him because I was mad. He did so much more and he hoed with me faster, Than e'er I was used to when with my old Master. That I was resolved to throw off my chain, And live 'long wdth my good old Master again; For when you hoed with me the most that I did Was to ser\'c as a shore to prop up your head. 146 The History or Wilbraham So like the hound in the fable my teeth are worn out. Therefore don't correct me for this saucy bout; For when I was young I hoed all your corn You ne'er had a better hoe since you were bom. I came from the Eastward vou very well know. So I am your Servant An Old Broken Hoe. My skulking place a thicket of weeds near Hovel Lane 1791 To show some of the business done in ancient days I insert the following. Copied from papers of Col. John Bliss, Esq., of South Wil- braham. Now in possession of Robert 0. Morris of Springfield. "To John Bliss Esq. one of the Justicies of the Peace within and for the County of Hampshire. "Complains upon oath Aaron Bliss of Monson a miner Son of Jacob Bliss Did on the thirteenth Day of Febuary at his Dwelling Did utter one Prophane oath by saying I wont (?) by God I will not go ought and Amos Beebe of Monson at the same time said by God i will not go out all which is Contrary to Law and a gainst the Peace of the Commonwealth and the Laws of the same Wherefore the Sai'' Aaron Bliss Prays that the sai^ Oliver Bliss and Amos Beebe may be apprehended and held to answer to Sai'^ Complaint and delt with (in) relation to the same as to Law and Justice shall appertain Dated at Wilbraham the Seventh Day of March 1798 Aaron Bliss" "Hampshire S.S. The above named Aaron Bliss made oath to the truth of the foregoing Complaint this 7 day of March John Bliss Jus' Peace." "March 9 1798 then Rec^ of Jacob Bliss 66 Cents as a fine of his son oliver for one Prophane oath March 9 1798 then Rec*^ of Amos Beebe a fine of sixty six Cents for one Prophane oath uttered by him John Bliss Jus' Peace" "The Town of Wilbraham to John Bliss. Dr. for Granting a Warrant to Carrying Abigal Jones a poor Girl to Springfield £0-2-0 The History of Wilbraham 147 Do. to Giving the Selectmen their Oath to a Pay Rool 0-1-0 Do. to Giving a Warrant to Carry Merriam Wright a Poor Girl to Ludlow at the request of the Selectmen Wilbraham Feb 5-1784. John BHss A true account Erors Excepted." ' ' Commonwealth of Massachusetts to the Selectmen of Wilbraham Dr. November 24 1780 and Jan. 8 1781 To 14 Shirts at £40 Each ' £560- 0-0 To 25 Pair of Stockings at £24 £600- 0-0 To 22 Pair of Shows at £40 Each £880- 0-0 Delivered to Mr Luke Bliss of Springfield for the Continental army for which we 2040- 0-0 have Mr Bliss receipt Transport ten miles £30- 0-0 Each of us one Day a Collecting Sai^ Articles " 105- 0-0 2175- 0-0 I got Reuben Chase Receipt allowed for Sixty Seven Pounds ten vShillings £67-10-0 The account of Mr Shaw's brought to this Page is one Hundred three pounds ten Shillings £103-10-0 £2346- 0-0 Got an order on Ezekel Russel from the treasurer for the money ' ' (Probably for work on Meeting House, South Parish). "To Mr. Aaron Stebbins 3'"^ Constable for Wilbraham Sir. Plese to pay to the several Persons hereafter Named the Sums afixt to each of their names Viz to Robert Russel to Robert Sessions to Aaron Stebbins 2"^ to Aaron Stebbins to Abner Chapin to Leu' Samuel Sexton to Moses Stebbins 2:11: 7:0 £0 10 :0 5 3 : 1 10 : 3 6 :0 3 6 : : 3 6 : 5 148 The History of Wilbraham and their Receit Shall Discharge you So much on the ministry Rate Committid to you to Collect — Per me David Burt Parish Treasurer Wilbraham March 26^^ i7g5" " 1789 Paid bill of William King Jr. 7 pounds 10 shillings for work making Meeting House Doors." "Mayl3'M785 "Chileab Brainard Merrick, yeoman, Samuel Fisk Merrick Gentleman, and Abigal Merrick widow, all of Wilbraham Executors of the Will of Noah Merrick, had an execution against John Davison of Monson for 1 pound 18 shillings Lawful Money. (No account of the property attatched.)" "1789 Samuel Fisk Merrick Gentleman of Wilbraham, got out an attatchment for 40 Shillings against Benjamin S wet- land, yeoman of Longmeadow Asaph King Dep. Sher. attatched 1 chair, costs 10 Shillings 8 pence." "1793 Soloman Warriner, yeoman brought suit against Jesse Warriner yeoman, for a note of 10s, 6P. Asaph King Dep. Sher. attatched 1 hat." "Deposition of Joseph Abit " testifies and says that on or about the first Day of March 1790 I was in Company with Mr John Shearrer Jr. of said Palmer at Wilbraham and he had his team and sled with him and as we ware Comming by Mr Thomas Hayls we made a Little stop and s^ Hail come to the Sled and s^ why here you have got my Chain and then the S*^ Shearrer s'^ is that your chain and the S^ Hale s"^ yes this is my chain & the very Chain that I Lent to Noah Shearerr & I never could git it Before & now I mean to keep it & the S*^ Hale takes the Chain from the Sled and said the Next time I lend him a chain I ges he will bring it home without my sending for it so often as I have for this one so he took the Chain away & carried it into the Black- smith Shop. "(signed) Joseph Abbott. Jan. 15 1791 (acknowledged before a Justice.) " "Wilbraham April 10'*^ 1794 "To John Bliss ( &c) (condensed) John Williams — yeoman Complains — that Phebe Barton — Spinster, on the 9'^ day of March, being Lords Day, did with voice and arms, within the walls of a House of Public worship, The History of Wilbraham 149 then being in the time of Public worship, then and there behave Rudely & indecently, to the great disturbance of your complainant & divers good subjects of the Commonwealth." The Constable directed to aprehend the body of the S"* Phebe Barton to answer to the Complaint and to summon Lydia Willey, Pamell Patterson & Fanny Chaffee as witnesses. FIRST CHURCH HISTORY FROxM 1794 In the year 1794, the atmosphere of Wilbraham seems to have been unusually charged with religious activity and zeal. In that year eight parish meetings were held by the first parish, to devise ways and means for moving the meeting house down from its high elevation on Wigwam Hill, into the village. For twelve years they had wrestled with the question of finding a location for it that would be acceptable to all. At different parish meetings during those twelve years, they had voted to move, and not to move; to repair; to build, to locate on "David Warriner's land east side of the road (about opposite the north end of 'Rich Hall'); to move the meeting-house on Charles Brewer's lot ; .... to set it on the south side of Joseph Saxton's lot; in the centre of the street." (Probably a little south of the present road leading up to the Woodland Dell Cemetery.) But, on April 18th, 1794, they "Voted that the Committee heretofore appointed to purchase a Place to set the Meeting House on be requested to proceed in purchasing the land of Jonathan Merrick — on behalf of the Parish for £33." And Gideon Burt, Joseph Sexton, Chileab Merrick, Reuben Sikes, David Bliss, Stephen Cadwell, and Ebenezer Cadwell were chosen a committee "to contract for the moving of the Meeting House into the Street in this by themselves or hiring it done." The last parish meeting, held in the meeting house on Wig- wam Hill, was on April 18th, 1794. The next meeting, on May 22, 1794, was held "at the School House near W'" Brewers." On August 29th, "at the School House in the Street," and on vSeptember 11th "at the School House near the Meeting House." I have been told that the building was left in the highway, a little south of the road leading up to the Dell Cemetery, for 150 The History of Wilbraham two or three weeks, and that several members of the parish desired that it should remain there. (Perhaps this may account for the unusual width of our main street at that point.) But, probably, late in August or the first of September, 1794, it was moved on to the ground where the Congregational meeting house has since stood. The parish meetings of October 24 and November 3d in the year 1794, were also held at the schoolhouse, which, was on the west side of Main Street, nearly opposite the meeting house. At the meeting November 3d, 1794, the meeting house was new seated. The names of 104 men and of 22 women, some of whom were widows, are given as being seated in the body of the house. In the gallery there were seated, 49 young men and 52 young women, whose names are given. Four of the young women were named Nabby, five Polly, and three Patty. Among the young men was seated "Black man Cadwell." If we assume that there were 100 wives seated with their husbands, there would be about 325 persons in all. The next parish meeting was held at the meeting house on January 26th, 1795, and £413 was "voted and granted for the purpose of defraying the expenses of moving repairing and building the Meeting House and the Land on which it stands .... and all votes and grants heretofore made for the purpose aforesaid be reconsidered." The Stebbins History says: "The tabernacle of the Lord is moved down from Wigwam Hill into the street with as much joy to all beholders as David moved the ark of the Lord from the house of Obed Edom into Jerusalem." And today, one hundred and nineteen years afterwards, we can rejoice that one of the causes of disturbance and division among the throngs that went up to the sanctuary on sabbath days, was at last removed out of the way. In those early days it was the practice to raise money for church expenses by assessing a tax on the property of the members, and while there was but one church here, the results were fairly satisfactory. But as other denominations were The History of Wilbraham 151 formed, their members objected to paying the tax, and the parish passed many votes, at different times, granting to the Methodists and Baptists the taxes assessed against them. The first record that I have found is of the parish meeting held March 14th, 1786. "Granted to Collector Ebenezer Cadwell as follows; Sam" Torreys Rat(e)— £0-2-11-2 Peter Walbridge Dito— 0-2-11-2 Moses Graves Do — 0-3- 1- Jon=* Sikes Do — 0-2-11-2" In 1796, the parish granted the following credits to the treasurer. "To forberance of the Methodist taxes in Sam" Warner Jr. hands £5-9-11 To forberance of the babtist taxes in Converse Cutlers hands £71-12-6 To Comi"^" order for the forbereance of babtist taxes in Luther Kilbons hands £7_16_1_2" It does not appear that the first parish were over-zealous in collecting taxes from the members of other denominations, provided they were assured that they really did attend other services. In 1794, the assessors were instructed to leave twenty-four different persons, whose names are given, out of the tax list. Notwithstanding this clemency, there were still some dis- senters and dissatisfied ones, and evidently the following meet- ing was called by some of that class. (Note. The law provides that if the Selectmen of a town, or the proper committee of a Religious Society, " unreasonablly refuse" to call a meeting of the town, or society, a Justice of the Peace may call such a meeting, upon the petition of a specified number of voters of such town or society. Within my recollection, a meeting of the town of Wilbraham was called in that way.) Apparently the parish committee had refused to call a meeting of the first parish when requested so to do, and 152 The History of Wilbraham one was called by Phineas Stebbins, Justice of the Peace. The Warrant for the meeting is directed as follows: "Hampshire S. S. to the Collector of the North Parish of the town of Wilbraham, or to Justin Stebbins one of the Petitioners of this Meeting or Eyther of them (etc.) that they meet and asseinble at the Methodist Meeting house in S^ Parish on the third day of February 1796 (etc.) "Art. 2, to see if the Parish will grant to the Methodists their tax for moving and Building the Meeting House now standing a little south of Will™ Brewers and their tax for the Support of Preaching in S'' House in Converse Cutlers hands and to order the treasurer to Pay Back all the moneys Collected on S*^ tax to the Persons of whom Collected. "Art. 3. "to see if the Parish will Call on the Baptist for their taxes now in the Collectors hands. "Art. 5'h'y "to see if the Parish will grant an order that the moneys now taxed upon the Methodists & Baptists shall be appropriated to Building and Repairing their Respective Meeting Houses if the S^ Parish shall not Grant the Second article in this War- rant." The meeting was warned, not by the collector of the parish, as customary, but by one of the petitioners and signed, " P-- Me Justin Stebbins." Notwithstanding this meeting was called to meet at the Methodist meeting house, the members of the North Parish were not caught napping, but gathered in such numbers that they were able to control the meeting, for one of their strongest members. Dr. Samuel F. Merrick, was chosen moderator. Under Article 2, they "Voted and Granted to Gaius Brewer two Dollars for materials for the Steeple of the Meeting House which he once gave to the Parish." Also, "Voted and Granted to John Grain (?) his taxes in Converse Cutlers hands to Collect 1£-13-." Then, "Voted S'^ Meeting be Disolved. Reuben Sikes Parish Clerk." The History of Wilbraham 153 On April 11, 1809, the parish "Voted that the Baptists and Methodists in this Parish who when able with their families worship in their own way shall in future be left out of the Parish Tax Bills, Provided they attempt not to act in our parish meetings, and those who of that description worship thus, but their families with us, they shall be taxed with others, but half their taxes shall be abated." That would seem to have been a fair settlement of the troublesome question which had disturbed them for many years. On February 11, 1794, Rev. Joseph Lathrop, D.D., of West Springfield, the "moderate Calvinist," and peacemaker generally, preached a most acceptable sermon to the church, probably in the interest of harmony among them. At the parish meeting, three days later, or, on February 14, 1794, the parish chose a committee to "present to Joseph Lathrop D.D. the thanks of this Parish for his Ingenious & pertinent sermon delivered on the 11"* instant, and request a copy for the Press — and have the same printed at the expense of the Parish and deliver one Book to each Famih^ in the Parish and a handsome Number to the Author .... to Defray the expense of printing out of sale of the rest." In a collection of several sermons and other pamphlets, owned by G. S. Atchinson of West Street, I have found a copy of that sermon, and insert a few extracts, and the title page. 154 The History of Wilbraham THE FURTHERANCE OF THE GOSPEL ILLUSTRATED IN A SERMON PREACHED IN THE North Parish of Wilbraham FEBRUARY 11, 1794. On Occasion of the DISMISSION of the Rev. JOSEPH WILLARD. From his Pastoral relation to the CHURCH and SOCIETY in that place. By JOSEPH LATHROP, D.D. PASTOR OF THE FIRST CHURCH IN WEST SPRINGFIELD r^^ Printed at Springfield, Massachusetts, By JAMES R. HUTCHINS, For a Church and Society in Wilbraham MDCCXCIV The History of Wilbraham 155 The Furtherance of the Gospel, &c. PHILIPPIANS 1 : 12. But I WOULD ye should understand, bretheren, THAT THE THINGS WHICH HAPPENED UNTO ME, HAVE FALLEN OUT RATHER UNTO THE FURTHER- ANCE OF THE GOSPEL. Near the close of the sermon Dr. Lathrop said: "Even infideHty has been made to subserve the cause of Christianity. . . . : : "Disputes and divisions among christians are on many accounts, unhappy. They are found, however, to answer some valuable purposes. . . . YOU, my brother, who are now taking your affectionate leave of the people of your late charge, will find comfort in the application of this thought. "YOU here entered on your ministerial work with agreeable prospects: But by the hand of providence you have, for months past, been taken off from your publick labours. In the meantime, you have seen your people surrounded with dangers, and embarrassed with difficulties, of which you could only stand an anxious spectator. I can fully realize your pain- ful sensations, while you have looked out and beheld your flock, wandering for want of the shepherd's care, and felt your- self unable to watch over them, and provide for them suitable pasture. "THE consideration of your health, and of the peculiar cir- cumstances of your people, has led you to conclude, that your removal from them is a step pointed out in providence: And they have concurred in the sentiment "WHILE we lament your removal from this people, it is a pleasure to find that you stand well in their affection and esteem and they in yours. You will remember, and pray for them still. May God mark 3'our path, and guide your future steps; may he restore your health, and appoint your lot in a pleasant place; may he make you extensively useful in life, and finally admit you to take a distinguished place among his good and faithfiil servants. "AND you, my brethren will also sufter a word of exhorta- tion. 156 The History of Wilbraham "WE take a sensible share with you in the painful feelings of this day. "THE long vacancy, which followed the death of your former pastor/ seemed happily supplied in this his successor. But the prospect is now shaded. You are again exposed to the dangers of a vacancy, at a time too, when the great work of building a house of worship is before you, and unhappy divisions have taken place among you. We trust, however, it is the father's good pleasure to continue among you his kingdom. The things which have befallen you he can overrule to the promotion of the gospel. . . . "YOU will not be content, that the stated ministry of the word should be long discontinued. You will take measures for the resettlement of it, as soon as prudence shall direct. In the meantime, you will endeavour to enjoy the preaching of the gospel, and will be diligent in your attendance upon it "YOU will treat with candour and tenderness those of your brethren, who have lately withdrawn from you. They took a hasty step in an hour of temptation. On calm reflection, it is hoped, they will feel their obligation to return, and walk hand in hand with you. Let your behaviour toward them be kind and friendly, and your language soft and winning. Walk in wisdom and meekness, considering yourselves, lest ye also be tempted. "ON this head I cannot more pertinently address you, than in the words of the Rev. JOHN WESLEY whose name, I suppose, you have often heard mentioned of late. ' Beware of schisms — of making a rent in the church of Christ. Inward disunion is the root of all contention, and every outward separation. Beware of everything tending thereto. Beware of a dividing spirit — shun whatever has the least aspect that way. Say not, ''This is my preacher — the best preacher ^ This tends to foment division. Suffer not one thought of separating from your brethren. Beware of tempting others to separate from you.' " IT is now with you a critical time. The shepherd is leaving you. If after his departure grievous wolves should enter in among you, not sparing the flock; yet of your ownselves let none arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them; but watch in all things; and remember, that you have been this day warned. Imitate the commendable example of the church of Ephesus, to whom Christ says, 'I know thy 1 Rev. Noah Merrick — who was born August, 1711, ordained June, 1741, — died De- cember 22, 1776, being in the 66th year of his age, and 36th of his ministry. The History of Wilbraham 157 works and thy labour and thy patience, and how thou canst not bear them who are evil, and hast tried them who say, they are Apostles, and are not, and hast found them liars.' Beware that ye fall not under Christ's censure on the church in Thya- tira, that she suffered some who falsely called themselves prophets, to teach, and to seduce his serv^ants. If you ask, how shall we prevent such from teaching and seducing? I answer in the words of the Apostle, AVOID THEM. . . . Never lay great weight upon small things, nor contend about trifles. Be united in pursuing the great things of religion; and then, in circumstantial matters, you will be disposed to please, each one his neighbour to edification. And I beseech you, brethren, for the Lord Jesus' sake, and for the love of the Spirit, that you strive together in your prayers for the furtherance of the gospel among yourselves, in the churches around you, and, through the world. And may the God of all grace, who hath called us to his eternal glory by Jesus Christ, make you perfect, strengthen, stablish, and settle you. To him be glory and dominion, for ever and ever AMEN. On rVpril 19th, 1796, the parish "voted to lease the pews in the Meeting House for the term of one year and the money appropriated for the support of the Gospel." This is the first record that I have found of any attempt to raise money by a system which has been followed most of the time since. April 16, 1798, Jason Chapin, Capt. James Shaw and Doctor Samuel F. Merrick were chosen "a committee to purchase a Bell," and S200.00 was appropriated for that pur- pose. But the bell was not purchased at that time, for there is an article in the warrant for the meeting held April 14th, 1800, "to grant money for the use of purchasing a church Bell." But in 1802, a church bell was purchased and hung, and then, the first Sabbath bell of the mountains sounded its welcome call to the willing worshipers, as they wended their way from the banks of the Chicopee on the north and the southerly bounds of the parish on the south, from far "Burch Run" and chilling Rattlesnake Peak on the east, and the wonderful wilds of "World's End Meadow" on the west. All heard the call to come up and worship at the house of the Lord on every Sabbath day, and we may feel sure that their steps were lighter 158 The History of Wilbraham and their hearts felt brighter as they heard and heeded the call. And the very next year they voted and granted $3.00 "to purchase a Bass Viol." And a few years later, they voted "$45.00 to hire a teacher of Psalmody among us." In 1807, they "Granted to Dan* Ladd, Jr. for playing the violin one year, $5.00," and in 1809 they "Voted to raise $5.00 for to support the bass Viol." In 1805, a committee was chosen by the parish "to fence the burying ground near the Street," and at the same meeting, "Duty Partridge, Ebenezer Cad well and Frederick Stebbins were chosen a committee to fence the burying ground over the Mountain," and $120.00 was appropriated for the work, and at the meeting held April 13, 1807, $25.00 was "Granted for painting Burying Yard fence." It appears from the above votes, that the town had not assumed charge of the burying grounds at that time. In this connection it may be of interest to copy a vote passed Decem- ber 2, 1782. "Voted that Jonathan Mirick Solomon Warriner Noah Warriner be a Commitee to fence the burying yard with Stone & with as much land as they think proper then voted and Granted £15 : : to fence the burying yard. Voted this sum be assest on the poles and Estates of the Inhabitants of this parish .... and each person be allowed to work out his rate as they Do at highways." About two weeks later, on December 17, 1782, they "Voted & reconsidered a vote past 2 December 1782 for fenceing the Burying yard with Stone & made the same nul and void." The yard to which most of these votes refer, is the one now called The Deacon Adams Cemetery, and the amount of land which the committee thought "proper," can be very readily traced there today. The original lot was enlarged in 1876 by an addition on the east side, and again in 1896 by a much larger addition on the north. A hearse house stood at the southeast corner of the original lot for many years, but was removed about 1871, and is now The History of Wilbraham 159 used for the storage of lumber at the carriage shop near the north edge of our centre village. There is one other matter relating to this cemetery which perhaps ought to be mentioned. About 1859, a large company of the men of the town gathered there one day, for the purpose of cutting the brush, improving the yard and making a general clean-up of the grounds. In carrying out that "improvement," some of the headstones, as well as the footstones, along the southerly side of the yard, were moved a few inches, or two or three feet, to the north or south, as might be necessary, in order to bring them into line with the others. I, a boy, was there at the time and assisted in some of the work. I do not think any of the stones were moved entirely off the grave to which they belonged, or that any of them were moved to the east or west, but some of them are now from a few inches to two or three feet, north or south of where they were originally placed. There are many things of much interest in this ancient bury- ing ground: The grave of Ehzabeth Cockril, who died April 26th, 1741, and who was "y'^ first person y' was Bured in y'^ Mountains;" The grave of Timothy Merrick who died from the bite of a rattlesnake August 7, 1761; The table monument that marks the resting place of "The Revened and Worthy NOAH MERICK," who died "Dec. y« 22, A.D. 1776," and of "Abigail his wife, who died Sep. 12, 1807, in the 98"" year of her age;" Also another table monument "In Memory of Deacon Nathaniel Warriner, who died JaiVy 10: 1780 In his 77''' year." And the three stones which re-tell the traged\' of Nine Mile Pond, on April 29th, 1799. These, and many others there, impel us to regard with solemn reverence that consecrated "God's- Acre." It may be of interest to copy some of the parish expenses about that time. 160 The History of Wilbraham In 1803, $2.00 was granted to paint the hangings of the Bell. In 1804, "Granted Reuben Colton $3.50 for joiner work for the Bell." In 1806, "Voted Gaius Brewer 66 cents for repairing the Bell." In 1813, "Paid Sally BHss $3.00 for sweeping the Meeting House one year." In the same year, "Paid Edward Stebbins $1.50 for Ringing the Bell seven weeks." In 1825, "Paid Edwin Crocker for ringing the bell and sweeping the Meeting House for one year $8.50. In 1815, they "Voted $20.00 for tythingmen." The Stebbins history says: "In 1824, an attempt was made by the town to obtain possession of the 'Minister Money,' especially that portion of it realized by the sale of the ' Ministry Lot.' It was unsuccessful, as it should have been, and the fund remains in the possession of the two parishes to this day." I find from the parish records that the first action seems to have been commenced by the parish. On April 13, 1818, a com- mittee was chosen by the parish "to request the Town to deliver up to the Parish their proportion of the land loan money belonging to s^ parish." April 12, 1819, "Com. chosen to confer with the other societies in this Parish respecting the loan Money & other grievances." On February 8, 1825, "Voted that Moses Burt be an agent to confer with an agent chosen by the South Parish of s^ town to recover the bonds belonging to s^ Parish out of the hands of the town, also to recover the interest due on s*^ bonds out of the hands of the com. chosen to receive the same." I have learned from the Records of the Supreme Court of Hampden County, that The North Parish brought a suit against the town of Wilbraham to recover $30.00 interest money, claimed to be due the parish, on the 4th Monday of November 1825, in the Court of Common Pleas. Judgment was given in favor of the town, apparently for the purpose of having the question go to the Supreme Court for a final decision. The total damage claimed at first was $160.00, which was probably for interest due. The case was appealed and came before the Supreme Court the second Tuesday in May, 1826. Both The History of Wilbraham 161 parties agreed to the following statement of the case (which I have condensed) : "A Committee was appointed by the town in 1772 to sell or lease the Ministry lands. "The committee reported in 1773, that they had sold them, with a statement of the securities received, which report was accepted in town meeting. On June 24, 1782, the town was divided into two parishes. North & South. The Act of division provided that each parish shoiild enjoy an equal part of all moneys for the use of the ministry .... "At the time of the division there was in the town treasury a sum equal to $833 and one third of a dollar .... In 1789, the town voted that the committee having charge of the securities should annually pay to the ministers of the parishes, each one half of the interest. That for twenty years previous to 1824, the interest, $25.00 each year was paid, except when there was no settled minister in the North Parish, then it was paid to the Parish Treasurer. In 1824, the Town voted that the interest should be paid to the several religious societies, according to the proportion of the town tax which their members pay. There are other religious socities not members of either parish. In 1825, a committee of the parish demanded of the town their portion of the interest due, but it was not paid .... It is there- fore Considered by the Court that the said Inhabitants of the North Parish in Wilbraham do recover against the said Inhabit- ants of Wilbraham the sum of Twenty six Dollars & seventy five cents Damages & Costs of suit taxed at fifty one Dollars & ninety five cents — Excu. P (Execution Issued) Dec. 5'^ 1826." About two weeks after this execution was issued, or on December 18, 1826, the parish chose "W'" Clark, Ebenezer R. Warner and Doc' Luther Brewer a Com to receive the bonds and to receipt to the town for the same, also to receive the interest on said bonds on the 1^*^ of Jan. next and pay it into the Parish treasury." On November 12, 1827, "Moses Burt, W" Clark and Aaron Woodward were chosen a Com. to change the bonds of the Parish into the name of the Parish and to take due care of and collect the interest on the same." In 1837, it was "Voted that the Bonds of the Parish be placed in the hands of the Treasurer of the Parish." It appears from this record of the Court, that the lawsuit was not an attempt 162 The History of Wilbraham of the town to get the "Minister Money" away from the parishes, but an effort of the parishes to get the securities for the fund into their own possession, and also to settle the ques- tion as to whom the fund belonged. For we learn from the vote of the town in 1824, that the voters had determined that the interest of the fund should be di\4ded among the several religious societies, then in the town, and only a decision of the Supreme Court could permanently settle the question. The fund remains in the possession of the two parishes to this day. The parish paid to different persons a total of $69.35 for the expenses of the lawsuit, in connection with the transfer of those bonds. In 1829, the parish treasurer charges himself, "B}^ Interest on Parish Loan $45.00." It is evident that the parish fund was loaned out to different persons for several years. In the parish treasurer's record I find the following: "Interest due from sundries, (sundry persons) on the Parish Loan for the year 1852. Jan. P' Samuel F. Merrick $18.78 " " Loren Phelps 13.87 " Benonia Atchinson 10.00 " " Henry Burt 2.35^ " " Edmund Jones 6.00" In the same record for 1856 the amount loaned to different persons is stated as follows: "Interest Account. S. F. Merrick note $312.94 interest 18.78 H. Clark " 231.21 " 13.87 H. Burt " 39.18 " 2.35 E. Jones " 100.00 " 6.00 E. Jones " 166.66 " 10.00 849.99 51.00" About 1855 and 1865 there were two legacies given to the parish of fifty dollars each, so that the sum now is $950.82. In 1868, the parish purchased their present parsonage, and as The History of Wilbraham 163 those notes were paid, the money was used towards paying for the same, and a note was given by the parish committee to the "Parish Loan Committee" for the total amount, and the interest is paid annually by the parish. The first entry that I have found from this investment is, "Mar. 11'**, 1872, Re'^'* interest on Parish Loan $38.05" which sum is increased in 1876 to $54.05 and remains the same at the present time. At the annual meeting of the parish in 1890, it was voted, "that the Parsonage shall be named the Deacon Warriner Parsonage, in honor of the first donor of money to the Parish." And so, one hundred and ten years after his death the memory of the good Deacon's act is perpetuated by a suitable memorial. The fund of the North (or first) Parish, now called "The Parish Loan," is as follows: From sale of the Ministry Lots, about 1773, $417.49 Legacy from Deacon Nathaniel Warriner in 1780, 333.33 Legacy from Gilling Atchinson in 1850, 100.00 Legacy from Nathaniel Atchinson in 1855, 50.00 Legacy from Marania Atchinson in 1865, 50.00 $950.82 Probabh^ the South Parish, (now the First Congregational Society of Hampden) received the first two sums, the same as the North Parish, and of the same amount. I will copy a few items from the church records. During the 35 years that the church record was kept by the first minister. Rev. Noah Merrick, about 60 persons are recorded as having made public confession of their sin in breaking a cer- tain commandment, and were accepted, and had their children baptized. Several persons made public confession of "y^ sin of stealing, of intemperate drinking, of evil speaking, and of a brea'^^ of y^ Sabbath, and all were accepted." On "Oct. 15, 1775, Hannah, wife of Justin Stebbins, Br*^ Letter from y*^ C'''' in Palmer and admitted into C*^." One week later appears this entry: "Ocf 22, 1775. upon some witness discovered by several of y^ Ch'\ with regard to y*^ above 164 The History of Wilbraham vote, relative to y^ S'^ Hannah Stebbins, upon reconsideration it was unanimously Disanulled, it appearing y' she had a child bom ill 7 months & five days, after marriage." On "April 26, 1785, At the house of Levi Bliss, the Rev. Mr. Baldwin Preached a sermon, at which time, Gaius, Gordon, Levi, Leonard, Patty, Catharine, Lucrecia and Asenath, chil- dren of the said Levi ; each of them were baptized at the desire of the said Levi's wife." Eight children in all. Fourteen years and three days later, or on April 29, 1799, three of those children, Gordon, Leonard and Asenath, were among those LEVI BLISS HOUSE . Probably erected about 1772. drowned in Nine Mile Pond. The house where Levi Bliss lived is still standing on the west side of our Main Street, about half a mile south of the B. & A. R. R. Station, and is now owned by William V. Patch. I will now copy part of one of the trivial questions which came before the church for considera- tion. "Sunday, March 15, 1778, afternoon — Dea. Nathaniel Warriner desired the church to make a short stop after the exercise was over; The church complyed therewith. At which The History of Wilbraham 165 time Dea" Warriner informed the church that a complaint -by the Wid""' Mary Mirick against Doc' Samuel Fisk Mirick (then standing propounded for church membership) was lodged in his hands, to be communicated to the church. The motion was made and the complaint was read, which is as followeth. Vis. "To the Church of Christ in Wilbraham. The subscriber who am a member of said church sendeth greeting. Beloved; Whereas Doc*^ Sam' F. Mirrick stands propounded in order to be admitted a member of said church. This is to inform that in my humble opinion, the said Doc' Mirick, cannot be received into church fellowship, under his present circumstances, con- sistent with the honour of religion and the dignity of Christ's church. He having disqualified himself by his saying, on a certain day last summer, at my house ; that a certain note that he had against me, was found at the bottom of the chest, and at another time, on the same day, said that the said note was found among loose papers; a few days after which, at the house then occupied by William King Junr. ; he, the said Mir- rick, wholly denyed that he said so, but said, that if he said so, he told an absolute lie, and then added and said, that the said note was found on file and amongst his Father's other notes. All which appears to me to be so inconsistent with real truth that it amounts to a degree of falsehood and a censurable violation of the Ninth Commandment, and contrary to Zachariah 8'^ Chap. & 16'^ verse, and although endeavors have been used, in order to reclaim him and bring him to repentance, agreable to Matthew IS'*" Chap. IS'*' & 16"" verses, he con- tinues obstinately to refuse to receive conviction, and be released from his fault. And now Beloved Bretheren I must intreat you to defer the receiving the said Mirick into our com- munion, 'till he is reclaimed from his sin and that you would proceed to such measures as the Gospel directs in order to effect the same. her MARY X MIRRICK mark 'Wilbraham, March 13'^ 1778. ' To the care of Dea. Nathaniel Warriner to be communicated to the church.' ' ' The question was put whether the church would act or do anything in consequence of the beforegoing complaint. It was voted in the affirmative. Then it was proposed that some future time and some weekday should be agreed upon for further prosecution. Accordingly it was unanimously agreed and voted that Thursday, the 26"' day of this instant, March, at 166 The History of Wilbraham one of the clock in the afternoon, should be the time for hearing party and party, and to agree and pass such other votes as the matter should then require. The church then dispersed." The meeting was held, "the Complaint was red, and Doctor Mirick Denys his being guilty of the Charge — The witnesses were called & Sworn. Viz. Mr. Ezra Barker and Mr. Jonathan Mirick to Prove the charge, Mrs. Mirick, and Mr. Chihab Mirick in opposition. The case being opened and Pleas made on either side, and the C*^*^ Having Considered the matter Maturely, the question was Put, whether the afore'''^ Com- plaint, Exhibited against Doc' Mirick, was supported, it passed in the Negative, the C^'^ meeting was Disolved. 'Test, Moses Stebbins Clerk for s'^ meeting." What silly proceedings, making a police court of the church. At the meeting held "Lord's Day, July 26, 1778, Doct Sam" Fisk Mirick was Rec^ a member in full Communion with this Chh" Dr. Merrick was quite a prominent man in those days. He was surgeon in Colonel Porter's regiment which marched in 1776, to reinforce the Northern Army. He made the address, in the meeting house, in 1831, at the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the settlement of our town. In his later years he became hard of hearing, and I have been told, by those who knew him, that on Sundays he used to sit on the steps leading up into the pulpit, and if the preacher said anything with which he did not agree, he would say, "Don't believe it, don't believe it." The society has had four different meeting houses. The first was used on Wigwam Hill for about 46 years, 1748, to 1794, when it was moved down to the site of the present church, where it continued to be used for about 64 years longer, or until the spring of 1857, when, after a service of 110 years, it was moved a little way to the northeast, to the ground where the livery stable now is, and was converted into a bam, and a new meeting house erected. The History of Wilbraham 167 I attended services in the original one for a few years, and there are a few others here who attended there for a longer period. There was a gallery on three sides of the house. One of these, on the west end, was reserved for the singers and the players upon instruments. That on the north side was occupied by the boys, and I was seated with them. The other, on the south side, may have been used by the girls. I am not very clear in my recollection about that. The pulpit was at the east end of the building and there were two aisles between the pews. The outer tier of pews joined onto the sides of the house. The seating of the meeting house was a heart-burning and almost a heart-breaking experience. A committee was frequently chosen to assign a seat to each person, or family, and questions of precedence were most care- fully discussed by them. But their arrangement of the searings was hardly ever satisfactory to everyone. On one occasion a woman, who had come to mature years and had never married, felt that she had not been assigned a seat in accordance with her importance, and she never occupied it, but carried a chair to the meeting house, on Sabbath days, and sat in the aisle near the pew where she felt she belonged. I have heard Dr. Kibbe and his wife tell that story, and laugh over it, more than once, but I do not remember her name. The second meeting house was erected in 1857, and served its useful purpose for only 20 years. The basement was finished, and used for evening meetings and social gatherings. On the afternoon of vSunday, June 24th, 1877, the 136th anniversary of the founding of the church, a four or five-years old boy, rest- less and un watched, wandered around the building, and finding a basement window open, crept in and looked around. In a stove he found a quantity of loose papers, and perhaps he added other material. Climbing up to the top of a cupboard, he found the tin pail in which the matches were carefully kept. He set the papers on fire. The stove had not been in use for some time and was not connected by a pipe with the chimney, and soon clouds of smoke were pouring out of the windows. The pastor, Rev. 168 The History of Wilbraham M. S. Howard, from the parsonage window across the street, saw the smoke, and rushing over to the meeting house, rang with all his might the dreaded and dreadful fire alarm, con- tinuing at the task while the swift flame mounted up into the belfry and threatened to throw the steeple down upon him. So the "First Sabbath bell of the mountains," which had so often tolled the knell of others, passing on their way to the place appointed for all the living, as its last service, rang out the tidings of its own doom. When the evening shadows gathered, the meeting house, also the one which had been converted into a bam, and four dwelling houses, standing northerly of the meeting house, with their out-buildings, were smoking heaps of ruins. A bam on the lot where the soldiers' monument now is, was torn down to prevent the fire spreading further. A fire engine came from Springfield, but could do nothing. So, both of the buildings which had served as meeting houses for this society, perished on the same day. The first had weathered the winds of 130 winters, the second had stood but 20 years. The third meeting house was commenced immediately, and the chapel part was ready for use late in the autumn, and the building was dedicated June 26, 1878, and, as an evidence of the zeal and enthusiasm of the members of the parish, I will mention that they made the steeple ten feet higher than it was on the old one. It was a beautiful and commodious building and all of the rooms were on the same floor, and it served its noble purpose for 34 years, until that dreadful 5th day of July, 1911, when, about the middle of the afternoon, in the midst of a most terrific wind and electric storm, the fire came down from the lightning-charged clouds, and seized first upon the topmost part of the slender spire, which had been for so many years an impressive land-mark from many miles around. And from that high point, the fire, working at first slowly but surely downward, soon enveloped the entire building and, before evening, onl\- a few charred and blackened timbers and twisted iron rods remained of the meeting house which all of us had loved. The outlook for a new building, in view of the prevailing high prices, was not verv favorable at first. But the members of the society W S 2; jQ o o 2 170 The History of Wilbraham were not discouraged, and entering upon the task with some such energy and zeal as had characterized the fathers, subscriptions for about $9,000 were secured, which, with about $8,000 derived from the insurance and interest on the same, was sufficient to erect a new meeting house at a total cost of about $17,000, which was dedicated Sunday, May 11th, 1913, with all bills paid. And again the members of the old First Parish have a church home of their own. By the kindness of the Methodist society, union services have been held in their church for the past two years, which it is expected will be con- tinued, a part of the time in each church. On May 25, 1817, twenty-seven children were baptized at one service, by a visit- ing pastor. Rev. Mr. Colton of Palmer. Nine families were represented; only one of them now residing in town, as follows: "Lorin, Sarah, Ann, & Lucinda, children of Roswell Phelps were baptised." There were also six children of Samuel Warner. On April, 29th 1799, occurred the sad tragedy of Nine Mile Pond, when five of the young people of Wilbraham, and a Mr. Guy Johnson of Tolland, Conn., were drowned there, by the overturning of a boat in which they were sailing. The house where they were having the "Merry Making," is still standing on the west side of our Main Street, about half a mile south of the B. & A. R. R. Station, and is now owned by WilHam V. Patch. The land, on which the house stands, is probably part of the ministry lot in the second division, for on June 8, 1772, Levi Bliss purchased the entire width of the ministry lot from the ' ' principal road in said Wilbraham westward to the inward commons." The width was 37 rods and 4 feet, and the lot con- tained about 161 acres. I have found the deed recorded with the Registry of Deeds in Springfield. Levi Bliss was father of three of the young people who were drowned. The story is well told by copying, in part, the account written at the time and published, with three of the funeral sermons, in a small volume, "Printed at Springfield" in 1799. The title page of this volume is as follows : The History of Wilbraham 171 "The Living Warned to be Prepared for Death. A SERMON Occasioned by the DEATH OF SIX YOUNG PERSONS Who were drowned in a pond in Wilbraham, Massachusetts, April 29, 1799: And Delivered May 2 when the funeral of five of them was attended By CHARLES BACKUS, A. M. Pastor of a Church in Somers, Connecticut. To which is subjoined Two Discourses. Delivered in Wilbraham May 12, '99 on the Same occasion BY REV. MR. WITTER Pastor of the North Church in Wilbraham Together with an Appendix giving some account of the particulars of the Melancholy Event." 172 The History of Wilbraham The Appendix is as follows: "In a circle of young ladies assembled for the purpose of spending the afternoon of the 29th of April 1799. at the house of Mr Levi Bliss in Wilbraham, a proposition was made and agreed to by some of the company to form a sailing party on a pond at a little distance. After tea they repaired to the pond, some on foot, by a short route, and some on horseback. Mr Gordon Bliss, Miss Asenath Bliss, Miss Nabby Merrick and Miss Mary Warriner, who walked, and Mr Leonard Bliss who rode before the others, reached the pond first. When the young ladies on horseback, who kept the road and who were accident- ally delayed a little on the way, arrived at the pond they dis- covered their companions above mentioned, and a Mr Guy Johnson, already in the boat, under full sail. They retired to a house a few rods distant, where they witnessed the distressing scene that followed. The wind was high and flawy. The boat had not proceeded far before it was careened down by a strong gust so as probably to dip water. The young ladies immedi- ately sprang to the upper side of the boat. As the wind slack- ened, the boat righted, and stood with rapidity, across the pond. When within a little distance of a point of land projecting from the opposite shore, it came within the influence of a strong current of wind which, when high and blowing in the direction it then did, necessarily passes, from the situation of the adjacent lands, with considerable violence over that region of the pond. "Whether attempting to heave about, to tack in order to avoid the point, or in a direct course is uncertain;' but the boat immediately caught the gale, leisurely overset, filled and sank. The distance, the foaming of the water, and more particularly the terror and consternation of the young ladies in the house, prevented their observing with accuracy the remaining part of the distressing scene. They well remember, however, to have seen a part, at least, of their companions floating for some time on the water. They noticed particularly the red skirts and white bonnets of one or two of the young ladies. But whether they sank and rose again, and how often, they cannot with certainty determine. "The woman of the house, less affrighted than her agitated guests, encouraged them for some time, with the undoubted prospect, as the gentlemen were swimmers and they appeared to be nigh the shore, of their getting safe to land. They soon, however, lost all hope of their escape — for, to their inex- pressible astonishment, they perceived them beginning to The History of Wilbraham 173 disappear, one after another, till at length nothing was to be seen but a solitary hat or two floating upon the surface of the water. "They were oyerset about 6 o'clock. There was no help at hand, the place where they wxre was difficult of access, on account of swamps and brush, and there being no boat short of an adjacent pond. In consequence of these and other im- pediments, the bodies all lay in the water till nearly 8 o'clock, when Mr. Leonard Bliss and Mr Johnson were taken out, and a short time after Miss Warriner. But with all the remedies resorted to under existing disadvantageous circumstances, no signs of returning life appeared. In the morning of the next day, Mr. Gordon Bliss and Miss Asenath Bliss were found. Constant search was made for Miss Merrick. On the second day of May the five above mentioned were interred. The most unwearied exertions continued to be made for a number of days by a large body of men, with a variety of instruments. Their uncommon and persevering engagedness urged them to the herculean labor of draining the pond of its vast quantity of water; but all in vain. At length, on the morning of the 15*^ of May, when all attempts to recover her were in a great measure given over as fruitless, the body was discovered by travelers, drifting before a gentle breeze toward the shore where it had a short time before taken its fatal departure. The body was entire, but had become very tender, none of the features of the face were retained, and soon after exposure to the air it became bloated and discolored. It was interred the morning after. "The depth of water where the boat went down was more than 20 feet, and the distance from shore about six or seven rods. Why three swimmers, and two of them good ones, should not only suffer the three young ladies to drown, but likewise to drown themselves so nigh land, has been a subject of various conjecture. It has been thought probable, by some, that one or two, at least, of the gentlemen were impeded in their exer- tions, by attempts to save the ladies, and some circumstances seem to favor the supposition, but no decided evidence of it was discovered. Mr. Johnson belonged in Tolland, Conn., the others were all of the North society in Wilbraham. Three of them were children of Mr. Levi Bliss, and were buried in one grave; one of them a daughter of Dr. Samuel F. Merrick, and the other a daughter of the Widow Mary Warriner. The young men were between 20 and 30 and the young ladies between 15 and 16 years of age. Man also knoweth not his time; as the 174 The History of Wilbraham fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare, so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them." So runs the story of the great tragedy of Wilbraham. All the surrounding towns sent help to assist in recovering the bod}^ of Abigail Merrick of whom it was said ' ' The Lord hath given her burial; let be." A ditch was cut through the open fields, leading off to the west, which must have lowered the water at least one foot, and still remains as an outlet to the pond. The water now flows into the Chicopee, instead of the Connecticut River. A heavy cannon was drawn from Springfield with the hope that the concussion caused by firing it might bring the body to the surface. The shadows of mid-afternoon were lengthening across the fields, when the lolling dust-covered oxen dragged the heavy cannon on to an elevation west of the pond, and its mighty voice called again and again across the dark waters for the dead to arise. The long reverberations, rolling far away to the south- ward, sounded to the listening dwellers along the mountain side, like the tolling of some monster funeral bell, for the buried of the Lord. But the sleeper heeded not, nor heard the call and undisturbed slept on. The waters were not yet willing to give up their secret. The excitement wore itself away in the general conviction that Abigail Merrick had found her final sepulcher. On the morning of the sixteenth day after the accident, two travelers passing along the old Bay Road, saw something fioat- ing out in the center of the pond. A gentle south wind was wafting it slowly shoreward, and the long-hidden body was soon brought, by willing hands, safely to land, and is now laid side by side with much kindred dust. To add to the woe of this God-fearing people, their pastor was absent, and the funeral services for the five were conducted by Rev. Charles Backus of Somers, Conn. Rev. Mr. Witter, the pastor, preached two memorial sermons the following Sunday, May 12. Sickness prevented his being with Dr. Merrick's family when Miss Merrick was recovered from the water, and her funeral was conducted by a Rev. Mr. Vermilyes The History of Wilbraham 175 the morning of May 16. This event made such a profound impression throughout this region, that the boat was placed on a wagon, draped in black, and taken through many of the towns of the Connecticut valley. If you will search among the headstones near the center of the old Adams burial ground, you may there read on the moss- grown lettered stones, this same story. " In memory of Miss Mary Daughter of Dn. Noah and Mrs Mary Warriner Was drowned in a pond in Wilbraham together with five others on the 29 of April 1799 in the 16 year of her age. Bost not thyself of tomorrow for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth." The footstone bears a carved six-petaled flower about the following inscription: — "Miss M. W. 1799." The inscription on Miss Merrick's stone reads: — ' ' Abigail Dautr of Doc Samuel F. Merrick & Mrs Sarah his wife was drowned with five others in a Pond three miles from this place April 29"^ 1799. In the 16 year of her age, and after lying in the water more than fifteen days was taken out and is here interred." 176 The History of Wilbraham The inscription on the stone of the Bliss children follows:— " In memory of three unfortinate Children of Mr Levi and Mrs Martha BHss. Viz Gordon aged 28 Leonard 22 Asenath 16 years who were drowned in nine mile pond in this town April 29. A. D. 1799. Pleasant they lived, nor did their pleasure cloy; Each day presented some new scene of joy. By nature near, nearer by love allyd, No chance could part them nor stem death devide. Together they their hapless fate bemoaned. Together languished and together groaned : Together too, the unbodied spirits fled. And sought the unknown regions of the dead." About 1870, I discovered a copy of the following "Ode," in an album once owned by Esther M. Isham and probably copied into it about 1850. About 1860, I saw another copy, which I think is the same, then in the possession of Gilbert S. Atchinson. AN ODE Hark! hear the tidings, Wilbraham in mourning. Girded in sackcloth, and her cries ascending; Fathers and mothers weeping for their children, Deep in the billows. Six youthful persons, for their own diversion. See them a-hastening to a pond for sailing; As soon embarked, see them plunged headlong; Sight how affecting. Oh the distraction of the few beholders. Just now a-pleading for a passage with them, Now hear them screaming, running, crying, Cannot relieve them. The History of Wilbraham 177 Now see them sinking, rising, floating; Death seizes on them, tender Hfe is yielding; Now see them sinking watery tombs receive them; Rising no more. Now tidings spread, now clothes the street in mourning; See horses running, men and women flying; Each heart is pained and the ground bedewed With flowing tears. Oh the distraction of the tender parents ! See them advancing, overwhelmed in sorrow; Read in their faces anguish in their bosoms, Pleading within them. See them in anguish walking the mournful shore. Looking and wishing, had they arms to reach them. Willing to plunge the watery mansions for them. Prudence refuses. Now grief within them struggles for a passage ; Crys out in anguish, Jesus send thine angels With some refreshing waters from the fountain, Or we shall perish. While some are mourning others are a-sounding. Searching the bottom for the drowned bodies; Deep from the watery tombs they quickly raise them. One still remains. Now on the mournful shore the corpses are lying. Just now all action, little thinking danger. Now hearing judgment from the great Redeemer, Not to be altered. Oh see the parents bending o'er the bodies; See tender mothers wipe their drowned faces. Oh say, Spectators, did you read the anguish Wrote in their faces ? Are these our children? Oh how cold and lifeless, Death, dust and ashes, cold as clay their faces. Mothers sit in silence, sleep in death's embraces But still our passions. 178 The History of Wilbraiiam Wisdom hath mingled this cup of trembHng; May we not murmur, but with patience drink it ; Parents of heaven, while we wade the billows, Hold us from sinking. Just are Thy dealings, Thy decrees eternal, Let not sinful mortals question wisdom; Never wish to turn a leaf of heaven's secrets, Waiting contented. Graves are prepared and the day appointed. Thousands attend the solemn day of mourning, While from the desk a solemn warning given, Each heart is bleeding. Once more behold the poor, distressed mourners ; See them approaching near the breathless bodies; Read in their faces the tender ties of parents. Mingling their sorrows. See them advancing to the silent mansions. In solemn order see the string of coffins Borne up by bearers and a train of mourners Following in tears. Farewell our children, till the great archangel Shakes the creation with the trump of heaven, Then hope to meet your children, joined with saints and angels, Hail the Redeemer. In an account of this sad event, written by Miss E. O. Beebe, and published recently, is the following "Ode." Behold God shake His awful hand Over the town of Wilbraham. And there He let stem Justice fly And winged Vengeance from on high. He makes ye mortals for to know Where He commands His wrath shall go; And may ye tremble at that day When He did snatch your friends away. The History of Wilbraham 179 That day the sun in splendor rose To wake each soul from its repose. It was in April ninety-nine, These few young maidens did combine. A visit they had planned to make And for that end their way did take To Mr Bliss's in the street Where they in harmony did meet. And being young they sought to speed Not knowing what God had decreed. A sailing voyage they did propose And there each one their party chose. Now Mr Gordon Bliss made one, With him Miss Nabby Merrick run. And Miss Asenath Bliss made three. With her Miss Warriner did agree. These four, they ran with hasty speed. While Leonard Bliss before did ride. And these across the lots set out While others went another route. How swift and dreadful was their flight From Mr Bliss's out of sight: At length they came unto the shore And viewed their pleasure as before. These their companions did outrun. At length unto the boat they came And they with Johnson leaped in And hoisted sail up to the wind. With fresh delight and pleasant breeze They ran across their little seas. And in attempting to turn 'round A gale of wind did cast them down. Oh solemn, solemn, solemn scenes! To hear their screeches and their screams While sinking down beneath the waves And drinking death in gasping graves ! Oh, Lord, how must those creatures feel When their dear souls began to reel, And their companions on the shore, To see them sink to rise no more? 180 The History of Wilbraham There each of them they lost their breath In the cold, icy arms of death. And bid a long and last farewell To all this side of heaven and hell. To gain their lives was all their aim, But all attempts did prove in vain : It was an instance very rare That three good swimmers drownded there. Not more than six yards from the shore On the next day they found two more. From neighboring towns vast numbers met The sorrowing mourners for to greet And take a final, last survey Of the pale lumps of lifeless cla}-. Now there is one was left behind. Miss Nabby Merrick was confined. Her body under water lay Until the revolving sixteenth day. Both day and night they searched around But nothing of her could be found, Until some travelers passing by. They saw her on the water lie. She was conveyed back to the town And laid in the cold and silent ground. And so the sad storv is concluded. A brief account of the efforts to increase the fish supply of this pond may be of interest. On January 10th, 1871, the State of Massachusetts leased the pond to Mr. B. F. Bowles of Springfield for ten years. He put about 50 black bass, of small size, in the pond. The lease became void. On March 1st, 1877, the town took a lease for 15 years, and at the next town meeting appropriated S150 for stocking the pond with new fish, and elected a committee to attend to the business. On May 5, 1877, about 6000 land- locked salmon fry were procured from the State Commissioners and placed in the pond, and in October of the same year, 27 black bass, of an average weight of one and one-half pounds The History of Wilbraham 181 each, were procured of Mr. Robert Holmes of Wareham, Mass., and placed in the pond in good condition. The total expense was $118.40. All fishing in the pond was prohibited for four years, and then only allowed to residents of the town who had procured a permit from the Fish Com- missioners of the town. In 1881, fishing was permitted on Thursday of each week from July 1st, to November 1st. One hundred and four permits were issued. Each permit included the family of the holder, and about two-thirds of those who received a permit made a return of the number of pounds of fish caught, with the following result. Pounds of bass caught, 583^2 Pounds of pickerel caught, 121 Pounds of other fish, 84 Total amount returned, 2633^ pounds. Some very large black bass, weighing from five to twelve pounds, were caught in 1881 and 1882. I do not know that any land-locked salmon were ever caught there. After a few years the lease was abandoned. The Fish Committee were, Chauncey E. Peck, Calvin G. Robbins, Samuel M. Bliss. In the year 1894, The Springfield Bicycle Club erected a club house on the east side of the pond. The name of the club was afterwards changed to Manchonis Club. And so the original name of the pond, "Manchonis Pond," is preserved. In recent years some ten or fifteen bungalows, or summer houses, have been erected on the westerly side of the pond, and on the northerly side of the peninsula which juts out from the east side of the pond, near its center, making quite a change in its general appearance. 182 The History of Wilbraham THE MARCUS LYON MURDER Only a few months more than six years after the sad accident at Nine Mile Pond, occurred the horrid murder of Marcus Lyon. None of the principals in the affair were residents of this town, but the crime was committed here, on the old Bay Road, about one-third of a mile east of the present Railroad Station. The two men who committed the murder were traveling from Boston to New York. "They lodged in Western (now Warren) on the night of November 8th. On the forenoon of the next day they called at a Store in Palmer, near the meeting house, and took some spirit in a canister; about two miles from this towards Wilbraham they soon called at a Tavern and drank." (There was a tavern across the road from the "Washington Elm.") These two men were seen traveling with great speed towards Springfield, and when they arrived there, "they directed their course to the lower ferry. . . . They called for some hasty refreshment at a tavern in the upper part of Suffield, and then pushed on to Picket's tavern in Windsor, where they remained over night. On Sunday morning they started early and had breakfast in Hartford. On Tuesday morning they were in Greenwich, and at Cross-Cob harbor, where they had bespoke a passage to New York, by water, to sail shortly. While they were there the pursuers came up and arrested them. . . . They were from Tuesday until Saturday on their way from Boston to Wilbraham, a distance of about 80 miles. And from the afternoon of Saturday to the forenoon of Tues- day, when they were arrested, they had travelled about 130 miles. . . . (or) at the rate of nearly 50 miles a day. . . . April 24, 1806, in the morning, the trial commenced in the meeting- house, in Northampton, which was insufficient to hold the crowd collected from various quarters." A preliminary hearing of the case was held in the "Town House" at Springfield on the Friday after they were arrested, where they were ordered to be committed for trial before a regular session of the Court. I have gathered the above items from a long account of the affair, published by Ezekiel Terry about 1810. The History of Wilbraham 183 The men who found the body of the murdered man in the river, were M. K. Bartlett and P. Bliss. It was found "about 9 o clock in the evening of Sunday Nov. 10''^ 1805, and was conveyed in a waggon to the Stage house, occupied by Asa Calkins." I now copy part of an account, published at, or near the time, and republished in a History of Massachusetts about 1835. The following is from the Massachusetts Spy (Worcester) November 20th, 1805. " Mr Thomas Jun. Sir. I have written the following at the earnest request of the relatives of the deceased. Please to give it a place in your paper, and you will gratify the public, and discharge a duty which humanity imposes. Your real friend Z. L. L. Horrid Murder and Robbery "Mr. Marcus Lyon, a young man of peculiar respectability, about 23 years of age, left his friends in Woodstock, Conn., last March, and went to Cazenovia, N. Y., and labored through the season. As he was on his return to his native place, mounted on an excellent horse, he was attacked by two merci- less rufifians in Wilbraham, on the Springfield turnpike road, between the gate and Sikes tavern, on the 9"" inst, about 2 o'clock P. M., and there murdered in the most barbarous manner. The circumstances attending the awful scene are almost too shocking to humanity to relate. It is supposed from the best circumstantial evidence, that the unfortunate young gentleman was first shot with a pistol; but the assassins, perceiving the wound not fatal (as the ball was afterwards found on the outside of his ribs) fell upon him like blood- hounds, and with a club and breech of the pistol mangled and lacerated his head in a most savage and barbarous manner. The upper part of his head over the cerebrum, and also over his left eye, was indented with wounds, evidently made with the cock of the pistol, and the back part, against the cerebellum, was all mashed to a pulp. They beat him till the guard of the pistol flew off and the ramrod was knocked out. which were afterwards found lying on the fatal spot. Ha\-ing thus far gratified their infernal disposition, they robbed him of his 184 The History of Wilbraham pocket-book (how much money it contained we are not able to inform), then threw him over the wall, dragged him a few rods to Chicopee river, and there deposited him, and placed large flat stones upon his head to prevent his rising. Without delay they next conveyed the horse through a small piece of wood to a sequestered enclosure, and then turned him loose, with saddle, saddle-bags and bridle on, and then went on. Soon after the horse was found and taken up; the neighbors conjectured he had by accident gotten away from some place where his rider had hitched him, and supposed that inquiry would soon be made for him, it being Saturday in the afternoon. They waited till Sunday morning but, alas! no rider appeared! The alarm spread. The woods, fields, and every bye comer were searched, and at evening they found the corpse close by the edge of the river, with all his clothes on, mittens on his hands, and his great coat wrapped about his head, with a large stone pressing him to the bottom. The pistol was found on the brink, broken to pieces. The young man's hat, new and unhanned was discovered under a small bridge, near the spot. The corpse was conveyed to a neighboring house, and the inhabitants paid that peculiar attention which sympathy alone can dictate and gratitude reward. The remains were conveyed to Woodstock on Tuesday, and the funeral attended on Wednesday, when the Rev. Abiel Ledoyt addressed the assembly from Mark 13. 33: The grief of the mourners, the numbers convened, and the tears that profusely flowed, presented a scene which we con- clude has never had a parallel in these our inland towns. The villains who perpetrated the awful crime are supposed to be two foreigners in sailors dress, who were seen that day by a number of people making their way towards Springfield. One particular circumstance tends much to strengthen the sus- picion. A lad, about 13 years of age, being sent after some hogs in the woods, near the place of the murder, happened to come out into the road, within two or three rods of two men in sailor habit. He declared under oath before the jury of inquest, that before he got out of sight of them, he saw one mount the same horse which was afterwards found, and ride him up the hill into the woods, while the other stood with a new cudgel in his hand leaning upon the wall. The same persons, according to the description, were soon after observed travelling in great haste "towards Springfield. We are happy to learn that his excellency Governor Strong issued a proclamation offering a reward of five hundred dollars for the detection of the villains, and that the high Sheriff of Hampshire County greatly inter- The History of Wilbraham 185 ested himself in taking measures to detect them, which we learn have proved efifectual, and the murderers are both com- mitted to gaol in Northampton." From the Massachusetts Spv (Worcester) June 25th 1806. "Execution of Daley and Halligan. "On Thursday last, pursuant to their sentence, Dominick Daley and James Halligan were executed at Northampton. At half past 10 o'clock they were conducted to the meeting house, by the high sheriff and his deputies, with a guard, com- posed of a company of artillery and a detatchment of militia. An appropriate and eloquent discourse was there delivered to a very crowded auditory by the Rev. Mr. Cheverus, of Boston, from 1 John 3 : 15. 'Whoever hateth his brother is a murderer.' After the sermon the criminals were constantly attended by Mr Cheverus, with whom, during the greater part of the time, they appeared to be engaged in prayer. At 3 o'clock, sentence was executed by Major General Mattoon, sheriff of the county. Notwithstanding their protestations of innocence, in which they persisted to the last, it is believed that of the 15,000 sup- posed to be present, scarcely one had a doubt of their guilt. Daley and Halligan were natives of Ireland. Daley was about 34 years of age, and has been in this country two years; He has left a wife, a mother and a brother in Boston. Halligan was about 27 years of age; and we believe has no connections in this country, in which he has resided for four This sad affair resulted in producing a long and realistic ballad, of which many knew a verse, and no one seemed to know it all. Miss E. 0. Beebe has procured the following version of the quaint old rhyme. MARCUS LYON BALLAD Listen to me and hear me tell Of a young man and what him befell; Of his hard fate now take a view Most solemn and affecting, too. 186 The History of Wilbraham A shocking story to relate; He on his way from New York state To Woodstock, to his native home, As far as Wilbraham he come. 'Twas some past noon on Saturday Two ruffians did this man waylay. They murdered him most barbarously, Then threw him in the river nigh. A boy he see them on the ground; Where marks of violence were found. Blood in abundance to be seen. He tells the spot describes the scene. He see them lead his horse away; The horse was found on the same day. Then constant search was made around; No owner for the horse was found. On Sunday evening lights they took Along the river for to look — ; At nine o'clock his corpse was found With a huge stone to hold it down. One says "Come here, I something see; A dead body there appears to be." And to it did attempt to get ; The stone slipped from off his feet. The stone slipped off, there did arise A bloody corpse before their eyes. Oh! what a scene: oh, what a sight, For to behold there in the night. Four rods from where they murdered him They threw his body in the stream. One hand was on his bruised head; 'Twas thought 'twas there by him layed. They in the current did place him Upon his face, his head upstream; The stone they did upon him lay Upward of sixty pounds did weigh. The History of Wilbraham 187 A jury then was summoned, An inquest held upon the murdered. His skull was broke, his side shot through ; His face disfigured by a blow. Papers with him did plainly show That Woodstock people did him know. And by the same did ascertain That Marcus Lyon was his name. At dead of night the people sent This heavy news unto his friend. Before sunrise his mother had News of her son being murdered. His mother says ' ' Now in this way, I never thought my son to see I've husband lost, and children two; Trouble like this I never knew." His friends then after him they went, Their hearts being filled with discontent. Those of his age some miles did go, His corpse to meet, respect to show. On Wednesday was his funeral, Hard-hearted were those that could not feel Such bitter mourning never was Viewing the corpse and then the cause. His mother lost a loving son ; One only brother left alone. Three sisters to lament the fate Of their dear brother who died of late. Amongst his mourning friends we find To mourn he left his love behind Who did expect the coming spring In mutual love to marry him. Forsaken now, disconsolate, Ofttimes lamenting his hard fate, She wishes and she weeps again, Telling their cruelty to him. 188 The History of Wilbraham His age was nearly twenty-three; Was kind affectionate and free; Humane benevolent and kind His like you seldom ever find. A pretty youth beloved by all, By young and old, by great and small; By rich and poor, by high and low, And every one that did him know. Ezekiel Terry, from whose account of this sad tragedy I have copied part of the foregoing account, was a printer, perhaps part of the time in Wilbraham. I have been loaned a bound book, consisting mostly of a collection of orations delivered in this vicinity by different persons, and sometimes printed by different firms, which were collected and bound in one book by Ezekiel Terry. He lived for a time on the Old Bay Road, near the line between Palmer and Wilbraham, either in the last house in Wilbraham, or the first one in Palmer. He was a member of the Second Baptist Church in Wilbra- ham, located east of Glendale. About 1805, he had printed a book on "Restoration," which was not in accord with the belief of the church. Several meet- ings were held to consider the matter, and on March 8th, 1806, the Church "Voted unamously to send Ezeakel terry a letter withdrawing the hand of fellowship with our watch and care from him as a brother in the Ch'' with us." They evidenth' thought differently about it in a short time, for, on January 10, 1807, the record reads; — "in the first place heard Brother Ezikel terry Exknodgement and Voted to receive him again into our fellowship as a member." Ezekiel Terry was also a clergyman. For, in a list of ministers in Wilbraham, printed in "The Massachusetts Register for the year 1814," I find his name as the Baptist minister. He died in 1829, and on his headstone in the Deacon Adams Cemetery, the name reads "Rev*^ Ezekiel Terry." His daughter, Mary, was the second wife of James C. Pease, and The History of Wilbraham 189 mother of Jerome Pease, one of the oldest men now in our town . The book to which I have referred is now owned by Mrs. Homer Tupper of Warren, Mass. In this collection I find a few items of interest to our town, as follows : AN ORATION Pronounced at WILBRAHAM On the 4"> of July 1810. BY CALVIN PEPPER Palmer from the PRESS of E. TERRY THE TRIAL OF m.\jor JOHN ANDRE Adjutant-General of the BRITISH ARMY. September 29, 1780. PALMER Printed by EZEKIEL TERRY. FOR CAPT. JAMES WARNER,* WILBRAHAM. 1810 The Gospel Rangers. f A SERMON DELIVERED at the ORDINATION OF Elder Henry Hale. BY DANIEL MERRILL, A.M. Third Edition WILBRAHAM Printed By TERRY & LEARNED 1808 *Capt. James Warner was a son of "Clark" Samuel Warner. tThis title is interesting to us because it seems to have been printed in Wilbraham. 190 The History of Wilbraham There is also AN EULOGY ON THE CHARACTER OF THE LATE GEN. GEORGE WASHINGTON Pronounced at Brookfield on the 22"^ of Feb. 1800. BY PLINY MERRICK Esq.* HISTORICAL SKETCH OF THE FIRST METHODIST SOCIETY ORGANIZED IN WILBRAHAM In 1791, the Methodist preachers on Hartford circuit visited the South Parish, once in two weeks and held meetings, first, in Abner Chapin's kitchen, then in the schoolhouse. Some time in that year Charles Brewer heard one of them, Menzies Raynor, preach. He was deeply interested, and invited him to visit the North Parish and preach there. He consented to do so the next time he came round the circuit, on condition that Mr. Brewer and others would protect him and his colleague, Lemuel Smith, in case any violence should be offered them. Two weeks later, Lemuel Smith preached the first Methodist sermon in the North Parish. On August 29th, 1791, the first Parish "Voted that the Meeting House be moved on Charles Brewers lot the first day of May next." Three weeks later, or on September 12th, 1791, "Voted to rescind the vote about setting the Meeting House on Charles Brewers lot." The action of the parish in voting not to move the Meeting House onto his lot was very grievous to Mr. Brewer, and on December 28, 1792, he and twelve others withdrew from the first parish, and probably commenced the formation of the Methodist Society, and soon begun the erection of the first methodist meeting house on the same ground where the building is now standing. * Pliny Merrick was a son of Rev. Noah Merrick of Wilbraham. The History of Wilbraham 191 On December 20, 1794, he gave a lease of the ground to the Society. I copy part of the document. "Know all men by these presents that I, Charles Brewer of Wilbraham in the County of Hampshire, Joiner for and in con- sideration of one pepper com paid me yearly and every year by the Methodist Society in Wilbraham so called have and by these presents do demise Lease & to farm (:') let unto Abel Bliss of said Wilbraham, yeoman Agent for and in behalf of said FIRST METHODIST MEETING HOUSE. 1794 to 1835. Society for and during the continuance of said vSociety in said place the land hereafter mentioned and described lying and being in s'^ Wilbraham and on the east side of the public road s'^ land being part of said Charles's home lot and whereon the meeting house stands." One of the interesting things in this lease, is the insignificance of the consideration to be paid annually by the Society. "One pepper com." 192 The History of Wilbraham In Bishop Asbury's Journal, under the date of Sunday, August 17th, 1794, there is the following entry. "I came to the new chapel at Wilbraham, forty by thirty-four feet, neatly designed .... I preached to about four hundred people .... "The 'Standing Order' have moved their house into the street not far from ours." There is much more in the journal, but I have only quoted what seemed to be of some historical importance. Charles Brewer died in 1836. The inscription OLD BREWER INN SIGN. on his monument, in the Woodland Dell Cemetery reads, "Mr Charles Brewer was the first person who introduced Methodism into this parish, and his house was made the home of Methodism and Methodist Preachers, and a place for preaching for the two years following." He was the first child to be baptized in the meeting house on Wigwam Hill, December 28, 1748. It is a strange coincidence that the first child baptized in the meeting house of the ' ' stand- ing order," should, about forty-five years later, be the first The History of Wilbraham 193 person to introduce another denomination. He lived on the west side of our Main Street, about 14 rods north of Springfield Street and kept an Inn there. The sign that hung in front of his place, and which was painted in 1810, is still in existence, and is displayed there this anniversary day. The house in which he lived, was taken down in 1893, and a new one erected, which has since been my home. On the 24th of September, 1794, the New England M. E. Conference, consisting then of about a dozen members, con- vened in the new chapel. The conference, though small, had mighty men in its ranks. Jesse Lee, Geo. Roberts, Wilson Lee, Daniel Ostrander, Geo. Pickering, Enoch Mudge, Joshua Taylor, and Joshua Hall were there; men whose influence on the churches of New England can never be effaced, and ought never to be forgotten. Francis Asbury presided. Saturday was the great day of the feast. The three principal men of the occasion, Asbury, Roberts, and Jesse Lee, preached with power to the multitude that thronged to hear them. The New England Conference again held its session in this church, in the year 1797 and on the one hundredth anniversary of that session in 1897, the Conference was held in the Methodist Church in this town. And on June 7th, 1826, the Conference was held in this church. A petition was presented to the Legislature in 1795 for incorporation, as follows: "Petition For Methodist Society In Wilbraham " Commonwealth of Massachusetts "To the Hon*'' Senate and House of Representatives in General Court assembled in Boston, on the fourteenth Day of januarv, in the year of our Lord Seventeen hundred and ninetv-five. "Humblv show the inhabitants of the Town of Wilbraham, in the Count v of Hampshire, that. Your Petitioners are of the Denomination of Christians called Methodists, and are con- scientiously of the persuasion; and are of Sufficient number and Ability to support a Teacher, and defray the Expenses of upholding public Worship among themselves; they therefore prav that thev mav be admitted to the Rights and Benefits of 194 The History of Wilbraham the Constitution in this Respect ; that they, and such others as may here after join them, in such manner as shall be prescribed by Law, may be incorporated into a Parish, by the Name of the Methodist Parish in Wilbraham, and be invested with the Powers, Privileges, and Rights which by the Law and Consti- tution of this Commonwealth, Parishes ought to have and enjoy. "And as in Duty bound shall pray. "Lemuel Smith, Elder in the Robert Coffin. Methodist Church. Justice Stebbins. Abel Bliss. Asa Jones Charles Brewer. Ezra Barker, Jr. Silas Bliss. Matthew Grover. Ephraim Fuller. Aaron Frost. Gains Brewer. Frederick Stebbins. John Russell. Abner S. Brewer. Augustus Sisson. Joseph Abbot. Phineas Stebbins. Anson Brewer Moses K. Bartlet. Cesar Tyler Ethan Warriner. Abner Chapin. Solomon Warriner, Jr. William Sweetser? Brewer. Elijah Stebbins. Elisha Walden. Cyrus Stebbins. John Loud. Walter Stebbins. Thomas Howard. James Hammond. Timothy Stebbins." Abel Bliss, Jr. This Petition was referred to the Committee on Parishes, which reported January 31, 1795, the usual order, notifying "the several parishes" in town, "that they appear and show cause, if any they have, why the prayer of said Petition should not be grante(i," at the first session of the next General Court, to be holden in May and June following. The South Parish made answer, June 12, 1795, by "John Bliss and Phinehas Stebbins, that the parish have made no objections against the prayer of the petition being granted." The North Parish by their Committee, James Shaw, Reuben Sikes, and Chileab B. Merrick, made an elaborate reply to the petition. They represent, that on the division of the town into two parishes, the meeting house was one mile south of the centre of the parish, and that they could not persuade the The History of Wilbraham 195 owner to sell the central lot on which all were agreed; that while they were waiting, the roof of the meeting house became so leaky as to render its use and preservation impossible, and that they permitted it to be new shingled at expense of indi- viduals; that this "exasperated the leading and principal part of your petitioners to a great degree ; they accordingly assembled and entered into a solemn written agreement to separate from the parish, be no longer connected with them, and formed themselves into a distinct society, as they termed it; the next Sabboth they went in a body, headed by one of the principal Baptists in the parish, to the Baptist meeting; they fell off gradually, and at length all left that meeting; at this time not one of them had ever heard a Methodist preacher; but the preachers of that order, ever willing to fish in muddy water, came among them; they swallowed the bait, and are now as they say conscientious Methodists;" that soon after, a number of the principal inhabitants of said parish ' ' met and invited the petitioners to attend and give their reasons for their conduct; that they came and said, that if we would dismiss our Minister (who by this time they had taken a dislike to), and remove the Meeting-house they would give up all thoughts of a separation;" but a contract had been made with the minister and could not be annulled without his consent; yet they would remove the meeting-house just as soon as possible, "using all exertion within the bounds of reason. . . . More than a year ago the selected spot was obtained, a meeting-house has been built just where they wanted it, the minister has been dismissed at his request, mostly, as he said, on 'account of these people;' yet they are as far from being satisfied as ever." The respond- ents also say that ' ' more than six of the petitioners are minors ; Cesar, the negro, is a transient person, already out of the State; Lemuel Smith, who in the petition styles himself their elder, is not here but once a month, nor that much of the time; and will not stay long probably; Grover has left the State; two others wish they had not signed the petition ; so that there are only twenty-five of any weight. Their ability may be known by the portion they pay of the town tax: that tax is 196 The History of Wilbraham £136 Is. 2d.; they pay £14 4s. 5d." They forbear to draw any inferences and leave the whole subject to the General Court. To this, the petitioners reply, June 6, 1795, by their Com- mittee, Gains Brewer, John Russel, and Ephraim Fuller, in substance as follows: "That shingling the meeting-house is but one cause; they were forever opposed to the settlement of their minister, and threw in their objections before his ordination, yet he was settled in spite of the remonstrance of twenty-seven persons; they never consented to return but utterly refused to do so on any condition; Nor did their minister ask a dismission on our account, but because his health was so poor that he could not continue; nor is Lemuel Smith absent from us as they say, — his family is here, and when he is removed another minister will come. There are but five minor petitioners, and they are 'capable of choosing and practising the truth.' No one wishes his name taken off. As nearly all of us are of the North Parish, it is not just to estimate our ability by the town Tax; the Parish tax for building the Meeting-House is £343, and we pay £90. We are not fickle, nor do our ministers 'fish in muddy water.' " "The parish voted, February 14, 1794, that all who belonged to the Methodists should be exempt from taxes, but afterwards changed, and rated the Methodists to build their meeting- house, when they had their own to build and a minister to support. They submit their case: 'Not doubting but your Honors feel the spirit of republican- ism, that liberty, civil and religious, might be established within the American shores.' " The act of incorporation was not passed at that time. "We learn nothing farther of special interest in the history of this church till 1814, when a camp-meeting was held. The following year another was held. These meetings were a great blessing to the church. Its members were quickened in spiritual life, a large accession made to its numbers, and the attention of the community aroused and called to the subject of religion. Inspirited by this influence, they immediately raised money enough, not only to finish the church in comfortable style, but had about three hundred dollars remaining in the treasury. At this time a stove was procured for warming the house. This was a great innovation on the customs of the age; and not till The History of Wilbraham 197 a number of years afterwards did any other church in town follow this example." An act of incorporation was probably passed at the session of the Legislature in 1832, and the first corporate meeting of the Methodist Episcopal Society was organized under a warrant issued by William Knight, Esq., of Wilbraham, at the petition of Abraham Avery and ten others, and was held in the Methodist meeting house, August 29th, 1832. In September, 1833, A. Avery circulated a subscription paper among the members of the society, for the purpose of taking stock in shares of fifty dollars each, to build a new meeting house. Thirty-three shares having been taken, it was agreed to proceed to build a house forty-two by sixty feet with a tower. The society voted to purchase slips to the amount of its funds, some three hundred dollars. William Famham was the builder, after a plan furnished by Rev. John Lindsey, of Boston. The cost of the house was limited to three thousand dollars, except for the steps, bell, and some outside expenses. And the house cost within the limit. It was, by the contract, to have been finished by the 20th of October, 1834; but was not com- pleted till May of the following year. It was dedicated by the Rev. Dr. Fisk about the 19th of May, 1835. In relation to the building of this meeting house I have copied a few items from the records of the society. At a meeting of the Society held January 1st, 1834: "On motion of Mr. Foster, voted that the committee be instructed to sell the old Meeting-House, and the avails thereof be laid out for stock in a new Meeting-House." At the same meeting it was voted "that the Three Hundred Dollars given by Moses K. Bartlett deceased, should be laid out for stock in a new Meeting-House by the Committee." (Moses K. Bartlett died October 29th, 1819.) At a meeting held April 24th, 1834, Wm. S. Smith and Wm. E. Brewer were chosen a committee to obtain subscriptions for the meeting house in contemplation, to be invested in free 198 The History of Wilbraham seats. On May 22, 1835, voted that the "committee be in- structed to sell the Old Meeting-House for any sum not less than three hundred and fifty Dollars." August 1st, 1835, the price was reduced to three hundred Dollars. Probably the meeting, August 1st, 1835, was the last meeting of the society in the old meeting house. The record for the next meeting begins : "Doings of a Parish Meeting held on Thursday the 21st dav of April instant A. D. 1836, held at New Church of the M. E. Society of N. W." "Voted that the Society accept of the doings of their Com- mittee in the negotiation with A. L. Brewer for the old House." May 5, 1836: "Voted that the Prudential Committee be instructed to examine the old slips, steps & Pulpit &c, in the Old House, and if thought best to reserve & remove the same before the sale of the House." The house was sold to Anson L. Brewer, and the ground on which it stood, which it will be remembered was leased to the society, was sold by Charles Brewer to Anson L. Brewer, Esq., of New Lisbon, Ohio, October 23rd, 1835, and on October 28, 1841, it was sold to Wm. W. Merrick and remained in his possession, and that of his estate for 67 years, or until 1908, when it was sold according to the provisions of his will, and is now in my possession. Twenty-five cents postage was paid on the letter which brought the Deed from New Lisbon, Ohio, to Wilbraham. In order to raise funds, the society sold pews or slips to individuals by deeds which are recorded in the clerk's book. The first on the record is for "Pew or Slip niimbered fifty one in the Meeting House lately erected for the use and benefit of the Methodist Episcopal Church and Society in the north parish of Wilbraham," to "Samuel Warner for Sixty Dollars." Dated June 20th, 1835. If an individual sold his "Pew or Slip" to some other person, the deed was recorded in the clerk's book. It seems that Clark B. Stebbins owned a pew in the church in 1845, and in that year the Chicopee Bank of Springfield The History of Wilbraham 199 obtained a judgment against him for the sum of $515.95, and the sheriff attatched his pew, No. 27, which was appraised by "three disinterested and discreet men" to be worth "sixty-five dollars." The record of the whole transaction covers two pages in the clerk's book, and it is no wonder that the society began to devise measures to eliminate such conditions, and on March 17, 1851, they chose "John M. Merrick, Sam' Warner, Joel M. Lyman, a committee to consider the expediency & practicability of buying the slips of the Proprietors." March 29th, 1843: Joel M. Lyman, P. P. Potter, Wm. E. Brewer were "chosen a committee to see if Land can be obtained on which to build Horse Sheds." April 7th, 1843: "Voted that the society hold meetings on sabbath days only by day light & on no other occasions except extraordinary ones." March 30, 1847: "Voted to purchase 2 cords of pine wood, 3 feet long, at 2.50 per cord, and 2 cords of oak wood, 3 feet long at 2.87 per cord. At the meeting held on April 7, 1849, Mr. Lane and Wm. E. Brewer were chosen "a committee to draw a plan and make an estimate for a parsonage." March 31, 1851: "Voted to raise five hundred Dollars to raise this house & finish off the Vestry." April 16, 1851, "Porter Cross, Samuel Warner, John M. Merrick be a committee to raise the house and finish off the vestry." May 10th, 1851: "Voted that the committee be authorized to procure a furnace provided they in their judgement think proper." March 19, 1855: a committee was chosen "to try to secure land for a parsonage &. horse sheds." At the same meeting J. W. Bliss was chosen a committee "to see what can be done towards raising money for the organ." A parsonage was probably secured in 1856. The meeting house remained as a place for worship until about 1868, when it was removed off to the east, onto the Academy grounds and 200 The History of Wilbraham has, for part of the time since, been used by the Academy for a music hall and for a gymnasium. The erection of the stone church was commenced in 1867 and it was formally opened with a sermon by Dr. Miner Raymond in midsummer in 1870. The total cost was nearly $45,000. The bell was given to the society by Col. Benjamin Butler, who lived on the Bay Road, in the northeast part of the town, and the funds for the pur- chase of the clock in the tower were secured by subscriptions from many different persons. WILBRAHAM'S FIRST METHODIST CHURCH [Built in 1794 and now used as a dwelling.] In 1912, Mrs. William P. Allis, 80 years old, then and now living in that ancient building, wrote the following poem: THE HISTORIC CHURCH AT WILBRAHAM 1794—1835 A structure of colonial pride, It stands upon the village street In ancient grace and stateliness Its high square sides and angles meet. No turret tower for bell designed, Nor useless lines might art bestow ; Nor Pynchon gables, Hawthorne styled. Could this quaint roof, unbroken show. Consigned within these sacred walls. Where altar offerings once were laid, Bright memories their full records hold. Silent, but true to Wesleyan's shade. Historic trees fit canopy formed For worship on its native sod; Where youth and age together walked. Devoutly walked and worshiped God. The History of Wilbraham 201 Still beautiful the shadows fall On church and consecrated soil, And side by side, the new and old, Are vet the same in love and toil. When Wesleyan zeal most brightly burned, This valley claimed her noted best; The Prince of Saints his rights confirmed. And Weslev's name was fitlv blessed. In connection with the camp meetings held by this society, I insert the following, copied from an account book of Stephen Newell. "A DREAM "I saw and behold People were gathered Together on the top of a delightsome Spatious hill where there were a number of high Lofty Towering Steeples bright and shining arranged along and on the vast tops were people clothed in white who stood upright and gave out the word hymn or tune and the people below burst into song. So I awoke Aug. 17'^ 1795." In different writing follows: "I conclude this was fulfilled in the Camp ground at Wil- braham." I insert another item from the same source. " CONTEMPLATIONS "Again we have been taught that it will be a great consola- tion to Saints in heaven to see the dammed in hell plased nigh in full view and that it will greatly promote their hapiness and it will set in Clear Light the compassion of God and Christ. "Such a preacher never had a distant Idea of the happiness of heaven or of what it consisted of he never has known Jesus nor the ways of Salvation never has one taste of the Love of Jesus nor the powers of the world to come." "Those Preachers are alwavs on the dark side Thcv do 202 The History of Wilbraham not Penetrate so far into heaven as their mind doth into Hell." The camp meetings, to which refference has been made, were probably held in the grove, which then covered the hill, about sixty or eighty rods easterly of the present Grace Church at North Wilbraham. Camp meetings were held there by several societies, on dif- ferent weeks, for many years. The Millerites or "Adventists," as they are now called, held camp meetings there, until they moved to their present location in Springfield. Also, I think, a negro society held meetings there for a few seasons. The grove was also used for Sunday school picnics. On August 24, 1857, the Springfield District of the Methodist Conference, began to hold camp meetings in Collins Grove, on the ground now occupied by the Collins Manufacturing Company's mill, and boarding houses. The ground was leased at $1.00 per year, and the meetings were held there for seven years until 1864; then they were held at Hatfield until 1872, when the present location at Laurel Park, Northampton, was secured. HISTORICAL SKETCH OF BAPTIST CHURCH AT COLTON HOLLOW I have mentioned that the year 1794 seems to have been filled with religious activity in our town. The business of moving the first meeting house down from Wigwam Hill, the building of the Methodist meeting house on our Main Street, were both going on at that time. And in addition, a Baptist society was gathering over on the mountain, easterly of Glen- dale, in a locality now known as "Colton Hollow," consisting of residents of both Wilbraham and Monson, and partly of persons who were already members of the Baptist Church at East Wilbraham, of which Elder Seth Clark was pastor. The following is a copy from the records of this Church society, now in possession of Sumner Smith of Hampden. First leaf of records is almost gone. The History of Wilbraham 203 "7^^ Day 1794. comer of ' ' Then met according to leaf gone adjournment — and in the first place proceeded in the matter concerning the gifts or qualifications of Deacons and found the Ch*" not ripe for action at this time. "21y Considered the matter as to the Sacrement and voted to have it as often as once in Eight weeks. (Rest of the leaf gone) (On next leaf) " and found that the minds of the Ch^ sentered on Brother Israel Bennet Consequently unamoslly voted that Brother Israel Bennet Be first Deacon in this Ch*". Then pro- ceeded to no What the work of a Deacon was not having time at this meeting Voted to Ajoum the meeting to Thursday the 15 Day of May Next at Nathan Peases at one of the clock p. m. This meeting is Ajoumed. "May the 15 Day 1794 the Ch*" met acording to Ajoumment .... then proceed in the Labour Conserning the work of a Deacon after much time spent in Labour come to no Conclusion then voted to Ajoum the meeting to Thursday may the 29"^*^ Day at one o'clock p. m. at Nathan Peases. "May 29 Met according to Ajoumment .... concluded to take up the qualifycations office And work of a Deacon in their order as they stand pinted out in Scripture — as set forth Acts 6-3-5. Tim 3 from 3 to 12. Qualifications of a Deacon (abbre- viated) Aught to be honest — Full of the Holy Ghost, a man of Gravity and Soberiety — a Man of Faith — open hearted — not close fisted or greedy of filthy lucre. "giy "We believe that a deacon ought to be The Husband of but one wife ruling well his own children and house Hold and that their wives ought to be sober grave and faithful in all things. "Then 2'>' Voted to send to the following Ch*^^ to see if we might obtain their fellowship (Vis) Suffield Wilbraham and Infield to meet in Conference at Bro. Nathan Peases Wednesday the 2"^^ day of July at 10 of the clock, m. "Wilbraham July the 2"^ Day 1794. At the request of a number of Bretheren members of the Baptist church under the Pastoral care of Elder Seth Clark who propose to Incorporate 204 The History of Wilbraham into a Destinct Church Met in Council at the DwelHng house of Mr Nathan Pease Elders and members from the following Churches. (Suffield, Enfield, names given, 3 from each) (Wil- braham) Elder Seth Clark and Brothers Joseph Butler Noah Polk ( ?) Josiah Hill Zadock Bebee Samuel Miner — made choice of Elder John Hastings moderator, Ephraim (?) Robins clerk. — proceeded to hear S*^ Bretheren Relate the Standing of their minds with regard to being set off into a Ch*^ State, the Concil Being by themselves and Deliberated on the matter and after mature Consideration the Concil were of opinion that it will be for the furtherance of the Cause of God that they be Con- sidered as a distinct Church and this Concil give them fellow- ship as such under the Appillation of the 2"^* Baptist Church in Wilbraham. "Sin*^ By order and in behalf of the Concil John Hastings moderator "Attest Ephriam (?) Robins Clerk "March 24'^ 1795 (Church meeting) "to hear a complaint of Sister Mary purches (?) against Brother Aron Chapin consisting of two Charges (?) P^ that Brother Chapin took some sheep of her and Declined to give her security therefor to her satisfaction. 2'y that in paying the Rent for the sheep the wool was not Equil to Contract. (The Church considered the matter and reported what Brother Chapen ought to do, and appointed a committee of four to settle any dispute between thein in the future. Nothing else done. Meeting disolved) "Oct 23'' 1799. A number of Christian people of the Baptist Denomination met at Nathan Peases for the purpose of Col- lecting their minds concerning the Publick Worship of God and travel of their minds present Elder Seth Clark Elder Stephen Shepard (and others) then sought to find the union Between Elder Clarks members and others in the worship and found aGreement — then went into the labour to see how many Could commune to Gether and found Forteen members that was free to commune. — Voted to send a letter of the proceedings of the day to Elder Clarks Church which is as follows. "A number of Bretheren who inet in their worship at Brother Peases to the Baptist Church of Christ in Wilbraham to whom we are connected (&c) — We would inform you that Elder Clark Deacon Elisha Cleveland ( ?) and a number of your Bretheren here together with ourselves this day had a Blessed interview in The History of Wilbraham 205 a free Conference at Brother Peases and found in the first place we were hapily agreed to worship together when we have Opportunity: and in the second place there was Forteen members stood ready for Communion who was here present — and all agreed that not withstanding our diferent oppenion respecting our being a Church Before this date Each part was willing Each other should maintain his oppinion and not con- sider one another Knowingly wrong, and finding ourselves free to Worship & Commune together we did in the conclution with the greatest freedom by way of Condesention to lay aside the Idia of a Ch*" till we have your Aprobation If you can give it and have this day agreed to set out anew the same as if there had been nothing done before in considering ourselves a ch''. Except we see no need of calling a Council Because our present prosperity Cannot alter their former opinion. We heard no noise of ax or hammer this day those members Who are not ready now to Embody with us are free towards our doings and we are free towards them (and more) "Sined in Behalf of the Bretheren Israel Bennet" (The answer) "Wilbraham Nov, 6'^ 1799 "at a ch'' meeting held at Elder Clarks house this Day Dear Breathem we took your letter into Consideration dated the 23"^ of October last We rejoice to see your union and fellowship one with other and wish Grace mercy and peace might be multiplied with you. We as a ch*' can give you fellowship as a ch*^ But think for your furter Benefit that it is Necessary that you have the fellowship of other ch''^ also. We remain your Breathem in tribulation "Sined in Behalf of the Ch^ Elder Seth Clark "To the Brethem in the south part of Wilbraham & Monson "The Church Covenant "Is subscribed to by 133 persons, the first 18 are "Nathan Pease Hannah Pease Israel Benet Susanna Benet Nathan Pease Jur. Silvia Pease Eliphlet Green Hannah Firmin Aaron Chapin Hannah Green Urial Lamphere Hannah Chapin Elijah Butten Gcrusha Lamphere Jonathan Hakes Lucy Butten Nathan Brumly Easter Hakes" 206 The History of Wilbraham "A meeting was held Feb. 6'^ 1800 at Isaac Meechams and in the first place hear'^ Brother Meechams accusations against sister pease and her reply. The ch*" attended with the greatest Calmness (?) and were all agreed that Brother Meecham was much out of the way in holding things so hard against Sister hannah pease and all the Ch*^ Except two members were free (favorable) towards her and they were in some measure removed and had nothing as against Bro. an what Before they had was in some measure removed out of the way. "At a ch"" meeting held at Nathan peases April 3'''^ 1800, voted that Elder Stephen Shepard Preach half the time with us at the present and continue so long as he shall think proper and we continue our freedom in Contributines to him in bilding the house upon that Land Elder Shepard had of Brother hakes (?) " May 3rd, 1800: Conference attended by Elders and mem- bers from other Churches the Articles of Covenant were read and approved and the fellowship of their Churches given. (This seems to be the second time the Church was constituted. Perhaps they had not held meetings regularly since 1794.) June 9th, 1804: "Voted that no Brother ought to bring a matter to the Ch*^ without it is a matter of Trespass ( ?) as there is many differences in our judgment which may be left to Endividuals which are not a just bar from the communion." Jan. , 1807 : ' ' Voted to have a free conference at Nathan pease. Jr. the 18"^ instant for the purpose of Bilding a meetinghouse" Mar. 30th, 1808: "2'y agreed to the eyedee that Elder Shepards present standing is not binding on his parishiners. Voted on Elder Shepards motion that he is at liberty to be absent from us' and we to look out for other help ' ' Voted "immediately to try to obtain other help." Dec. 23rd, 1809: "At a ch*" meeting held at Brother James Works — 2'^ Conversed freely upon inviting Ministers to administer to us who belong to and attehd the masonic lodge Voted that under existing circumstances we think it best not to invite them to the grief of any of our bretheren." The last of Dec, 1809: "Voted to request that hampton Ch^ ordain Brother Alvin Bennet — that he may administer the ordinances to the ChA." June 23rd, 1810 — "at a Conference meeting held at our meeting house." (The first mention of using the meeting house. The previous meeting held at Elder Shepards.) The History of Wilbraham 207 Oct. 17th, 1811: "At a ch^^ meeting held at Brother Nath Pease house in Wilbraham — Brother Truman Trask Came forward and made his mind manifest that he was not satisfied with his Baptism on the account of his not being quite all over Whelmed in Water through a mistake. It was largely Con- versed upon after all the Light that Could be Brought forward, then the voice of the Ch'' was taken and all was agreed Exsepting one that Brother Trask was Gospelwise Baptised and therefore is a member of this Ch^. March 21st, 1812: "In the first place opened the way for Bro. Aaron Chapin to free his mind why he left the Ch^, he said that the principle reasons was Conseming masonry and the mode of singing the Ch^ had adopted. Conversed largely on the first point and finding his mind Still tryed. not wishing to leave the Ch^ Could he see with them, the Ch^ agreed to wait on him a while longer." Monson July 31st, 1830: "In the first place took up the matter concerning Br. Jedidiah Smith joining the Freemasons. Voted to send him a letter of admonition. Elder Bennett to write S'^ letter the letter was wrote, read and Excepted." Feb. 12th, 1831 : "Voted to send Br. Jedediah Smith a second letter of admonition. Elder Bennett to write it." April 9th, 1831: "Voted to exclude Jedediah Smith from church fellowship." May 4th, 1833: " — 7*'^ Voted that a committee of three be appointed to corospond with Sister Ch*^^ on the subject of Free Masonry. Sept. 13th, 1817: "Voted to release Br Asa Beebe uppon his own request from Ch^ Chorister. 2'>' Voted that they was willing that the singers should sing and regulate themselves." April 20th, 1822: "Then Oliver Bliss presented a Complaint against Bro. Asa Beebe — appointed April 24'^ to hear S'* Complaint." (On April 24 met to hear the Complaint which was): "that Bro. Beebe had defrauded and deceved him in selling him a yoak of oxen . . . . " (evidence given.) Then the Church deliberated on the matter and voted the following report. "We are sensuble that the intention of the mind must crown the merit of the action and of this the Lord only can Judge. We are sorry that Br. Beebe did not inform Mr. Bliss that the ox had been poaked at the time he sold him 208 The History of Wilbraham the Cattle which we think he ought to have done and we are very sorry that he did not and hope he is or will be sorry for it also which we think he ought to bee. Then Br. Beebe Replied and said that he was sorry that he did not tell Mr. Bliss that the ox had been Poked (ox was unruly). "V^oted to Disolve this meeting." 20 church meetings for business were held in 1837 and 29 in 1838 and many members were excluded from fellowship, causing much trouble and at the request of the church a com- mittee from the association considered the subject. April 26th, 1845: Voted "that the name of our church be so far changed as to be called Baptist Church Monson & Wil- braham. Voted to organize a Sabbath School." April 18th, 1846: After hearing the testimony concerning Mrs. Hunt, "Voted we think she did wrong when her husband came home in taking the tea and hideing it and then make her husband think he had not got any and he went and got more. Also we think she has used profane language. Voted that she confess publicly — Mrs Hunt said she could not comply with the requirement of the church. Voted to wave the subject for the present." It seems there are no records of church meetings from August 19th, 1849 to November 30th, 1852. On November 30th, 1852: "The church met a committee of the Association consisting of four, A. Parker, Robinson, Bachelor, J. Nichols. The object of the committee was to learn the state of the C'*''. Upon inquiry of each member present it seemed to be their desire to sustain the visibility of the church and make one more effort to sustain the preached gospel in this place." April 27th, 1853: "Voted to ask the committee of the Asso- ciation Rev. Parker, Robinson and Bachelor to know whether in their opinion the church have lost their visibility or identity in their past neglect of various duties &c." Dec. 2nd, 1854: "Voted to dedicate the new Meeting House in South Wilbraham. Committee appointed to fix the time and make all necessary arrangements. Voted to appoint our next Covenant meeting at the Baptist Meeting House in South Wilbraham." The History of Wilbraham 209 Jan. 6th, 1855: "Voted to continue our meetings at the new meeting house and make it our place of worship." July 5th, 1856: "Voted that we consider Bro. Henry S. Stevens as pastor of this C'''' during his stay with us." Aug. 2nd, 1856: "Voted Sumner Smith Church Clerk in place of Gideon Day resigned." PETITION OF NOAH STEBBINS AND OTHERS FOR Incorporation "Into a Parish or Religious Society, BY THE NAME OF THE MeTHODIST EPISCOPAL PaRISH, IN THE towns of Wilbraham, Springfield, and Ludlow." "To the Honorable the Senate, & the Honorable the House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, in General Court assembled, in Boston, on the twenty-ninth day of May, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and five : — "The Petition of the subscribers most humbly exhibits that they are of a persuasion and denomination of Christians com- monly called Methodists, belonging to the towns of Wilbraham, Springfield & Ludlow, in the County of Hampshire; and that they are of sufficient number & ability to support a teacher and defray the expenses of upholding publick worship among themselves. "They therefore pray that they may be admitted to the rights and benefits of the Constitution in this respect, that they, and such others as may hereafter join them in such manner as shall be prescribed by law, may be incorporated into a parish or religious society by the name of the Methodist Episcopal Parish or Religious Society in the towns of Wilbraham, Spring- field, & Ludlow, and be invested with the powers priviliges & rights which by the law & Constitution of this Commonwealth parishes ought to have and enjoy. "And as in duty shall pray "Newel Cone, Leonard Frost, Charles Converse, Matthew Cone, Ezra Barker, Moses B. Bartlet, Ichabod Cone, Samuel Brewer, Charles Johnson, John Langdon, Gains Brewer, Russel Parker, Calvin Stebbins, 2d. Gordon Chapel, Walter Langdon, Josiah Langdon, John Brewer, Eldad Stebbins, Noah Stebbins, Peter Wallridge, Christopher Langdon, Charles Brewer, James Calkins, Jr. Walter Stebbins, Abel Bliss, Jr. Eleazer Bishop, Reuben Hendrick, Rowland Crocker, Joseph Bannister, Abncr Chapin, John Kneeland, Ahimaaz Willey, Jonah Beebe, 210 The History of Wilbraham Benjamin Weaver, Sewall T. Mack, Elijah Jones, David Calkins, Fred. Stebbins, Noah Frost, Abel Bliss, Charles Brewer, Jr., Jona Merrick, Jr., Zenas Parker, Luther Stebbins, 2^, Noah Stebbins, Jr., Stephen Stebbins, Sylvanus Stebbins, Luther Stebbins, Eldad Stebbins, Jr., Zadock Stebbins, William Brewer, Jr., James Calkins, David Cadwell, Nathan Mack, Ezra Goss, Phineas Stebbins, Jr. Elisha Shepard, Nathan Alvard, Steph. Cadwell, Jr., Benjamin Allen, Jonas Keyes, 6L" Committed to the Standing Committee on Parishes, May 30, 1805, by the House of Representatives. In the same words another petition is presented at the same time, signed as follows: — "James Malvin, Samuel Frost, Eliphalet Green, Jonathan Benton, Stephen Pease, Jedediah vSawyer, Uriah Clough, Elijah Thacher, Daniel Swetland, William Butler, John Russel, Samuel Harris, Ephraim Fuller, Jr. Samuel Frost, Jr., David Orcutt, Silas Holton, Joseph Webster, John Clough, Anthony Slaster, vStephen Howard, Ephraim Fuller, Reuben Frost, Elias Frost, Elkanah Tenney, Lemuel Parsons, John PauUs, Jr., John Charter, William Carlile, David Slaster, David Stebbins, Gideon Hunn, Chester Wakefield, Anson Craw, 33 Wilbraham, 59; Springfield, 25; Ludlow, 8." On the ' ' Petition of Noah Stebbins and others and Stephen Howard and others, Inhabitants of Wilbraham, Springfield, and Ludlow, praying that they may be incorporated into a religious Society, by the name of the Methodist Episcopal Parish or ReHgious Society in the towns of Wilbraham, Spring- field, and Ludlow" it is "Ordered, that the Petitioners cause attested copies of their Petitions, with this order thereon, to be served on the respective Town Clerks of the said towns of Wilbraham, Springfield, and Ludlow, and on the several Parish Clerks within the said towns, thirty days at least before the second Wednesday of the first session of the next General Court, that all concerned may then The History of Wilbraham 211 appear, and shew cause (if any they have) why the prayer of said Petitioners should not be granted. "In Senate, February 22, 1806. "Read and accepted. "Sent down for concurrence, "H. G. Otis, President. "In the House of Representatives, February 24, 1806 "Read and concurred, "Timothy Bigelow, Speaker'' A previous petition of Noah Stebbins and others only is ordered and referred in the same way, June 11th, 1805 (except "third instead of second Wednesday" and "next session" instead of "first session of next," etc.) The next autumn, forty-three of these petitioners renewed their petition, "not withstanding there may be objections by Towns or Parishes." The North and South Parishes answered the notification of the petition in nearly the same words, as follows (omitting the formal introduction) : — "The clerk of the town has favored us with a writing pur- porting to be an order of your Honors on the petition of Noah Stebbins and others, praying to be incorporated into a religious society, also papers purporting to be petitions of said Noah Stebbins Stephen Howard and others, but neither of said papers are attested by any person as coppies, so that we are wholly at a loss whether there be any such petitions pending and we know not the names of the petitioners except the two above men- tioned. Indeed, the person who left the papers with the clerk said he would give the names of as many as he could remember, and gave about fifty. He soon after called and took said list away, so that we have not the names of the Petitioners but by the memory of the clerk, and his information was incomplet; but a number have appeared and said that they signed said petition, but that they were deceived — that they had no idea of saying that they were Methodists, and wished to be incor- porated, but that they were willing that others, to wit, Method- ists, might be. Upon the whole, we think there has been great unfairness in obtaining said Petitions, and in giving notice. We therefore pray, if there is such a petition pending, your 212 The History of Wilbraham Honors would not grant the prayer thereof until we are regu- larly notified and have the names of the petitioners. " ' As in duty bound shall we pray.' Chileab B. Merrick ] Committee Samuel F. Merrick \ for Philip Morgan J North Parish Robert Sessions 1 Committee for Stewart Beebe ■ South Parish Calvin Stebbins J of Wilbraham''' In 1819, forty-two inhabitants of Wilbraham, Palmer, and Monson, petitioned to be incorporated as "The Third Religious Society in the town of Wilbraham," alleging that they were situated about four miles from the nearest place of public worship, and that they had twenty years since formed them- selves into a separate religious society, and erected a house of worship, and supported preaching almost constantly since that time; but at length, finding it inconvenient to do so, in con- sequence of the want of an act of incorporation, granting to said society power to lay and collect a tax for that purpose. The act of incorporation was not passed, and it is hardly necessary to copy the names of the petitioners. They were, I suppose, the supporters of the Baptist Society in the North Village, or the one at Colton Hollow. As a reminiscence of the days, only about 75 years ago, I copy a few bills paid on account of the militia, and other items from the treasurer's account. "To the Hon. Board Selectmen or Assessors of the town of Wilbraham. "This may certify that the within named persons have done Military Duty in the Springfield Artilery the past year as Required by law. Edward W. Chafife Almond Wood Isaac Brewer vSydny Moore Jackson W. Stebbins Springfield Oct. 24'" 1837 Cap' David Loyde." The History of Wilbraham 213 "$25.00 Luther Brewer Treasurer of the town of Wilbraham pay Highland Cleaveland, Benjamin Ellis, Sidney Moore, Isaac Brewer, Edward W. Chaffee the sum of Five Dollars each they having done Military duty as the law requires the year past as cer''* by their commanding Officer — Stephen Stebbins ] Selectmen of "Dec. 6, 1838 Wm. V. Sessions J Wilbraham" "To the Selectmen of the town of Wilbraham "This certifies that Benjamin Ellis has done military duty in the company of light infantry in Longmeadow the season past according to law he will therefore have a claim of Five Dollars on your treasury for his services. W. Lathrop, Captain" "To the Selectmen of Wilbraham "Gentlemen this certifies that Jonah Alden 3^* of Wilbraham has done Military duty in the Independent Company of Militia in the town of Ludlow the past season according to law for which he is entitled to five dollars out of the Treasury of Wil- braham. Ludlow Oct. 19, 1842 Charles D. Champlin 1 Commander j of said Co." Training day was a great event in those days. All men between the ages of 18 and 45 were enrolled in the militia and were required to assemble at stated times, organize into com- panies, choose officers and do a certain amount of drilling each year. How they got their dinners on training days, I have not yet learned. But I have learned from one who was there, that the beverage they consumed was not all drawn from the tavern well, near which they generally assembled. New England rum was cheap (about 60 cents a gallon) and on that day it was plenty and free for every militiaman. The expense was paid by the officers, the non-commissioned officers being assessed about 25 cents each, and the commissioned officers paying larger sums, according to their rank, but the "grog" was free, and we may well believe the reports of those days, that some of the men drank more of it than was for their good. I have been informed that at the last training of the Wilbraham company, 214 The History of Wilbraham they marched to North Wilbraham and then along the roadbed of the Great Western Railroad, as the Boston and Albany was then called, which had been graded, but the ties and rails had not been laid. That must have been about 1838. Philip P. Potter was the last captain of the Wilbraham company, and Col. Benjamin Butler the last colonel of the regiment, which must have been composed of companies from several towns. They both retained their titles while they lived, being familiarly spoken of as Colonel Butler and Captain Potter. It appears, from a study of the treasurer's accounts of the town, that the bills were not always paid during the year that there were incurred. I find the following: "1834, Apr. 9, To paying Selectmen's order to William S. Burt dated May 10, 1830 marked No. 1 Letter A. $88.38 Interest on the same 20.81." On one page of the account for 1831, I find that interest was paid on eight different orders given in 1829 and 1830. The largest being $23.00, and the smallest $1.65. There are many similar charges of interest paid. On the same page I find that the treasurer credits himself "Depreciated money $3.00." In 1827, I find the treasurer charges himself, "By Cash of William Knight Esq. being one half of a fine collected of Erasmus Glover for Profane Swearing .50." Also, "Mar. 20, 1832, Paid Aaron Bliss for Surveying the Town $62.90." A copy of this survey has now been secured for the town. RAILROADS IN THIS VICINITY "The road from Boston to Worcester was opened for traffic July 4th, 1835. "Passenger trains were run from Boston to Springfield, Oct. 1st, 1839. "In Oct., 1841, the road was finished to the N. Y. State line and on Dec. 24, 1841, trains began running between Boston and Albany, on the longest continuous line of railway then in operation in the United States." The History of Wilbraham 215 The line was then owned by three corporations, which were consolidated under the name of the Boston and Albany on December 1st, 1867. The road from Springfield to Hartford and New Haven was opened in 1844. The road from Spring- field to Northampton and beyond, was put in operation about 1847. In 1847, a company was incorporated to build a line from New London to Springfield, but the route was changed to Palmer, and was opened September 20, 1850. In connection with the opening of the Boston and Albany Railroad, the following letter from Delos D. Merrick to his brother Wm. W. Merrick, both of this town, may be of interest. (Delos D. Merrick went to Wellfleet to teach school.) "Weimeet Mass. Dec. 22"^ 1834 "Dear Brother — . ... let me tell you about my journey. I arrived here the next sabbath after I started. We arrived at Ware about 8 o'clock, left there about seven the next morning. Arrived at Worcester about 12 same day which was Friday, left there 123^2- arrived at Westboro in season to take the railroad for Boston we drove 7 miles from there with a horse fastened to the car to a place call'^ Hopkinton where we waited till 20 minutes before 5 we then started with steam and with such rapidity that I was astonished for I must say that I never rode as fast as that before, they go at the rate of 20 miles per hour we soon arrived at Boston .... Permit me to tell you one thing, censure me not for you know I wanted to see all I could by way of improvement. I visited the Theatre I did not have any idea of it it was beautiful" (Left Boston Sunday morning by boat, reached Wellfleet same day. Two friends of his who sailed from Boston on Friday reached there at same time.) When the " Great Western Railroad" (now Boston & Albany) was built in 1839, a station was established near the northwest part of our town, about forty or sixty rods east of where our present West Street runs under the railroad, and about mid- way between the two houses now standing there. Elisha Fuller kept a tavern, located a few rods north of the station, on the north side of the present highway and just west of the branch road that runs down towards the Chicopee River. In the 216 The History of Wilbraham days before the Connecticut River Railroad was built, a stage ran daily between that station and Northampton. About 1840 to 1845, a family from the South had come to Northampton to visit friends, bringing with them a colored nurse-girl, who was a slave. It was against the sentiment of the community in those days for a slave to tread the sacred soil of Massachu- setts. Probably some rabid abolitionist must have given the information to the society in Boston that a slave was there, for two men came from Boston and compelled her to go with them. She came in the stage with them to Mr. Fuller's tavern, and broken-hearted told her story to him. When those men ordered dinner for themselves, and said that she could eat afterwards or with the servants of the house, Mr. Fuller was very indignant, and told them, "If they had dinner there, they would all eat at the same table, and at the same time." She was taken to Boston, told she was free, and could take care of herself. In a few weeks, only a month I think, she was back, on her way to Northampton, and trying to find her friends, from whom she was so cruelly separated. This incident of the old abolition days was told me by a daughter of Mr Fuller, who though only a child at the time, remembers it very well. This railroad station was moved in 1851, to what is now called "Oak Street" Station, and the tavern soon followed. Both being moved on Sunday, by the railroad, on four plat- form cars, two on each track, and the tavern was set on its foundation without even disturbing a glass of water, full to the brim, setting on a shelf in the dining room. About 1859, Mr. Fuller moved to Springfield, and conducted the Hampden Hotel, in the block now occupied by Smith & Murray's store. The present station at North Wilbraham was established about 1852. The Athol branch, now operated by the Boston & Albany, was built from Barrett's Junction to Springfield in 1873, and a station established in Ludlow, just across the Chicopee River from our north village, which was named "Collins," in honor of the first station agent at North Wilbraham, which was once called "Collins' Depot." WARREN COLLINS. First Station Agent, also First Postmaster at North Wilbraham. .MRS. WARREN COLLINS. WARREN LEVI COLLINS. Proprietor of the Stage Line between North Wilbraham and Wilbraham for many years. MRS. WARREN LEVI COLLINS. ^218 The History of Wilbraham # hm I i J\ - %^/mi^^^ 1 HS ^^2 THIS WAS THE HOME OF WARREN COLLINS. And the first Railroad Station at North Wilbraham. The building is now standing a little east of "Collins Inn." THE WILBRAHAM AQUEDUCT COMPANY vSomewhere about 1854 or 1855, a stock company was formed here for the purpose of supplying our center village with water. A reservoir was made on the west side of, and about half way up the mountain, and an aqueduct of pine logs was laid to the Main Street and for about half a mile in the street. I well remember, when a boy, of seeing the long auger, run by steam power, eating its way lengthwise through those logs and the bushels of chips which rolled out of the end of the log where the auger entered. The boring was done in a lot on the east side of the Main Street, directly in front of the south end of the present boarding house of Wilbraham Academy. The specifica- tions required that the logs should be eight inches in diameter at the small end. They bored a hole four inches in diameter through each log, leaving at the best only two inches of sappy green wood around the hole, and as I have been told, when the water was turned on the logs began to burst before the water The History of Wilbraham 219 got down into the village. The broken places were patched up, and the water was kept running after a fashion for a few years, but at such an expense for repairs that after a short time the system was abandoned, and the reservoir sold later to Wil- braham Academy, and about thirty-five years ago an iron pipe was pushed through the hole in the old logs for part of the way, and now serves to convey water to their boarding house from what is called the "Upper Reservoir." The following is a copy of an assessment made upon the stockholders, found among the papers left by William W. Merrick. "Wilbraham June 16'^ 1856. "To William W. Merrick Esq. Treasurer of the "Wilbraham Aqueduct Company. "Sir. "The Board of Directors of the Company have directed that an instalment of six dollars on each share of the capital stock of said Company be required to be paid into the hands of the Treasurer at the expiration of ten days from the 28th day of May last past. In accordance with this resolution I have placed in the hands of Hiram M. Brewer Collector of the Company the Subjoined bills. It is the wish of the directors that you use all due dilligence to cause the same to be collected and paid into your hands and made subject to the drafts of the Secretary and Auditor. 'L. B. Bliss 4 Shares 24.00 R. Glover do do 24.00 Geo Bishop do do 24.00 Edmund Jones 3 do 18.00 Edwin B. Brewer 2 do 12.00 Roderick Burt 2 do 12.00 Robert R. Wright 2 do 12.00 William E. Brewer 2 do 12.00 James W. Mowry 4 do 24.00 Nelson Mowry 4 do 24.00 Samuel F. Pickering 4 do 24.00 John M. Merrick 20 do 120.00 Ezra White 1 do 6.00 Mrs Lydia Virgin 1 do 6.00 220 The History of Wilbraham Hiram M. Brewer 2 Shares 12.00 James Rice (transfered to John M. Merrick) 6.00 Jesse W. Rice 2 do 12.00 William W. Merrick 4 do 24.00 Whole amount 396.00" None of these stockholders are now living, but I remember all but three of them. They were capable and energetic, and we regret that their venture was not more successful. HISTORY OF THE WILBRAHAM ACADEMY The Wesleyan Academy, as it was originally called and, as its name indicates, was closely connected with the Methodist Church. During the first fifty years after the Methodist Church was organized but few efforts were made to found educational institutions. Cokesbury College in Maryland was built, and twice destroyed by fire, but nothing further was done in the cause of education by the Methodist Church until the year 1818, when the Wesleyan Academy was inaugurated and located at Newmarket New Hampshire. The Wesleyan Academy had but very limited success during the entire time of its location at Newmarket, and its founders with other friends of education in the Methodist Church began inquiring for a better location, and proposals were invited. On the 30th of December, 1823, the following vote was passed by the trustees: "Whereas, the Academy under our superintendence has not met with that encouragement which we were induced to expect, Therefore, voted, that we suspend our operations for the present." The citizens of Wilbraham offered valuable inducements, including subscriptions to the amount of more than $2,000 and the present site of the institution was selected, a board of trustees nominated, and an act of incorporation obtained from the Massachusetts Legislature. The act was approved by the Governor on the 7th of February, 1824, a few days more than a month after operations were suspended at Newmarket. The Wesleyan Academy at Wilbraham and the Newmarket The History of Wilbraham 221 Wesleyan Academy were therefore one and the same institution with only a change of location and legal authority, and claimed the honor of being the oldest existing literary institution, under the patronage of the Methodist Episcopal Church in America. On land donated by Wm. Rice, Esq., of Springfield, formerlv of Wilbraham, known as the "Academy Lot," with the avails of donations collected by agents who travelled extensively through the Conference, the "Old Academy" building was erected. A farm of sixty acres — one-half of the Warriner homestead, was purchased, and the old house enlarged and fitted for a boarding-house. This house was first built by Wm. Rice for a hotel and had been used for several years by the Warriners for that purpose. As the main tide of travel had moved aside from them, they found business not paying and were ready to sell. For some time the chief profit had been derived from special gatherings for convivial and military purposes which often proved to be "high times." On one occasion, after freely imbibing of the liquors kept within, the revellers rode their horses in at the large front door, through the hall and out the back way. The purchase of this property was a fortunate investment. It removed what would have been a source of constant temptation to the students, and at the same time gave them precisely the property most conven- iently located for the purposes of the school. The school was opened November 8th, 1825, and the number of students the first day was eight, during the term, thirty- five. From these small beginnings the institution was at once encouraged by unexpected success which has continued with more or less variations. To assist indigent students, by making the institution, as far as means would allow, a manual-labor school, a mechanic shop was erected, and incipient arrange- ments were made for an agricultural department. This experi- ment did not prove successful, however, and the mechanic shop was soon enlarged and converted into a laboratory, with recita- tion rooms, museum, and cabinet for the department of Natural Science. The History of Wilbraham 223 Dr. Fisk, the i)rincipal, at first lived on tlie Work's ])lace, a mile down street. This was on the site of the first house south of Federal Lane, on the east side of our IVIain Street, now owned by Wm. T. Eaton. A house was built for the principal in 1827-28 on the site of the present house and used as the residence of the principals for twenty-eight years, until 1856, when it was removed a short distance to the west and fitted up for students, and the new one was built. In 1851, the building known as Fisk Hall was erected; and in 1854 the old laboratory was removed and Binney Hall took its place. On the 4th of January, 1856, the boarding-house took fire and was entirely consumed. A substantial brick building was begun in August of that year and completed in 1857, when it was again destroyed by the flames. After nearly two years' delay, another building to take its place was com- menced, and was ready for students at the fall term in 1861. and has been in use since that time. It was named "Rich Hall" in honor of one of the principal donors of the fund for its erection. In 1896, the Smith Memorial Gymnasium was erected, at a cost of about $45,000, given by Horace Smith, or his estate, for that purpose. In June, 1911, the school was closed as a co-educational institution, and extensive changes and altera- tions were made in Rich Hall, and some improvements in other buildings, and was opened in September, 1912, as a School for Boys. The present principal, or "head master," is Gaylord W. Douglas. We hope the Academy will be as successful in its new field of labor, as it has been in the past. From a printed catalogue of the Academ\- I gather some items of interest. The cover page reads: 224 The History of Wilbraham CATALOGUE Wesleyan Academy WILBRAHAM, MASS. Summer and Fall Terms 1836 The catalogue contains the names of 202 males, and 198 females who attended the school, making a total of 400. But, the names of 43 males and 52 females are marked with a dash, to show that they had left the school. Probably some who attended the summer term, did not attend in the fall, and some who attended the fall term, did not attend in the summer. The place where the students boarded, or roomed is also given. 79 males boarded at "Seminary," as it is called, and 50 females at "Seminary L. A." 74 males and 97 females boarded, or had rooms, in private houses, the names of the places being given. 18 females made their home with Miss Allen, 12 with Mrs. Potter, 8 males and 3 females with Mrs. Moody, 10 males with Rev. E. Otis, and in smaller numbers at other places. In all, the names of 32 places are given where the students boarded, or had rooms; many probably boarded themselves, and that custom was continued down to quite recent times. The Catalogue continues, The History of Wilbraham 225 "TERMS AND VACATIONS "The year is divided into four Terms, corresponding as nearly as possible with the four Seasons. The Winter Term will commence on the first Wednesday in December, and the Spring Term on the first Wednesday in March. The Winter and Spring Terms will each be preceded by a vacation of one week. "BOARD "The price of board, exclusive of washing, fuel and lights, $1.50 per week. Washing, 25 cts. per doz. Board may be obtained in private families for from .|1.50 to $2.00 per week. "PRICE OF TUITION "For common English studies, per Term For each higher branch of Mathematics Botany ..... Natural Philosophy Chemistry ..... Latin, Greek, French, Spanish and Italian Ornamental Branches .... $3.00 .50 .50 .75 1.00 1.00 3.00 "In no case, however, shall the charges for regular instruction exceed $5 per Term, except for Music, the Ornamental Branches, and Lectures in Book-Keeping. " In regard to the location of the Academy building, I copy from the History of Wilbraham Academy, published in 1893. "In the minds of the committee, Calvin Brewer's place, next the store had the preference. — Sixty-five acres in that beautiful locality for $3,500, was not high. — They made further search in the vicinity, coming back each time to this spot. The com- mittee is ordered to close the bargain. The papers are drawn up. — The bargain was nearly closed, the owner thought it was closed; when the committee began to hesitate and inquire. They looked at the Brown farm and the Merrick farm with some longing, only to return to the Brewer place. The board ordered the deeds ' to be executed and placed in the hands of a third party until April when the trustees may have the option of taking them and paying therefor, should they be unable, meantime, to effect a purchase of the Merrick farm.' 'The 226 The History of Wilbraham purchase of the Merrick farm was not effected. The Brewer trade also failed, which proved so great a grief to the owner that he applied to the trustees for damages. "But the arbitrators to whom the matter was referred exonerated the committee of the board." It is a matter of interest to us today, as to the location of those places. The Merrick farm was about one fourth of a mile south of the present location of the academy. The place is now owned by Mr. M. C. Wade, but was owned by the Merrick family for more than one hundred and fifty years. The Brewer farm included the land on both sides of Main Street, now occupied by the Methodist parsonage and my own home, on the west side, and by the store and house of F. A. Gumey on the east side. The farm was about 21 rods wide and extended easterly to the "middle road," and westerly to near Pole Bridge Brook. Bounded southerly by Springfield Street, part of the way, and northerly by the north line of the road leading up the mountain. TOWN LOAN AND SURPLUS REVENUE I have made a diligent search to find something definite on this subject, but have not succeeded as well as I hoped. From the Deacon Warriner will, a copy of which will be found on another page, it will be seen that he left a legacy of £200 to the town, the income to be used for the support of schools. There were also two school lots, each containing about 145 acres, which were sold about 1772. The school lots were about half as large as the ministry lots, and probably sold for about $416. There was also some overplus land, the sale of which may have increased this sum. THE SURPLUS REVENUE In 1836 the United States had a surplus of money in the treasury, and on June 23, 1836, Congress passed an Act that all money in the treasury above $5,000,000 should be deposited with the states in proportion to their representation in Congress, 2'28 The History of Wilbraham subject to be called for by the United States, under certain specified conditions. In the Acts of the Massachusetts Legislature of 1837, Chapter 109, it was "Provided that the several towns in the State shall receive their proportional share" of the fund, subject to be called back by the State Treasurer, if required by the United States Treasurer. Section 4 provided, "The several towns aforesaid shall apply the money so deposited with them, or the interest upon the same, to those public objects of expenditure for which they may now lawfully raise and appropriate money, and to no other purpose." The Act further provided that " §2,500.00 of the money should be retained by the State and loaned, and the income to be paid annually as follows: The income from -SI, 000. 00, to the treasurer of the District of Marshpee. One half of the income from $1,200.00, to the guardian of the Chappequiddick and Christiantown Indians, and one half to the benefit of the Indians at Gay Head ; And to the treasurer of the Herring Pond Indians, the income of S300.00. All of the income to be used for the support of schools in said places." I have copied this last section to show some of the wards the state had seventy-five years ago. I learn from the office of the Secretary of State, that the State of Massachusetts received, in three payments, the sum of $1,335,673.58. The State Treasurer informs me that there was paid for the town of Wilbraham as follows: "On May 17, 1837 there was paid to Hon. John Howard $2,965.65." And, "on July 27, 1837, there was paid to C. Sprague Esq. $1,146.10." Making a total of $4,111.75. The State Treasurer says: " It is apparent that in 1837 these checks were drawn to individuals. I assume that Messrs. Howard and Sprague must have been designated by the town to receive this money." I do not find that there were any such men as "Hon. John Howard," or, "C. Sprague Esq.," then living in this town, or in any of the surrounding towns, at that time. But evidently the town received the money. The town treasurer's account for many years, shows that he received "$56.09, interest on the town loan" each year. The History of Wilbraham 229 previous to 1838. Which would imply that the fund then was $934.84. Beginning with 1838, the sum received for interest is much more, sometimes more than $300 in one year. On March 29, 1839, the treasurer credits himself, "Cash paid for Blank Book for Committee on Loans, $1.25." Probably the several funds were placed with the Loan Com- mittee, and loaned by them to individuals, and when the interest was paid to the committee, it was handed over by them to the town treasurer. The first definite reference in the treasurer's account to the surplus revenue, that I have found is, "Mar. 28, 1838, By Cash Surplus Revenue for Bridge $300.00." Probably this $300 was used in building the bridge over the Chicopee River, called "Red Bridge." For, on April 6, 1837, the town "Voted to unite with the town of Ludlow in rebuilding the bridge over Chicopee river near Jonathan Burr's," and chose "John Carpenter and Abel Bliss a committee to carry the same into effect." The next reference is, "Apr. 2, 1838, Voted that when the town receives the residue of the Surplus Revenue the selectmen be instructed to take $450.00 of the same to pay monies they have borrowed." It does not appear that the town ever received any surplus revenue from the state, after July 27, 1837. On April 26, 1837, "Luther Brewer, Wm. S. Burt and John Carpenter were chosen a committee to take care of all Loan Money belonging to the Town," and instructed to loan no man more than five hundred dollars at one time." As I have said, the town had the right to use this Surplus Revenue fund for ordinary expenses. But it was loaned out for some years. As near as I can ascertain, it was probably used as follows (Copied from treasurer's account of receipts) : "Mar. 28, 1838, Surplus Revenue for Bridge $300.00 Oct. 17, & 25, 1851, (probably for bridge at North Wilbraham) 1985.95 Jan. 5, & 15, 1852, " ' " " 163.50 Mar. 31, & Apr. 3, 1852 " " " " " " 184.55 Apr. 7, 1856 487.50 In Mar. Apr. May & Nov. 1863, (War expenses probably) 914.13 $4,035.63" 230 The History of Wilbraham This would nearly use up the Surplus Revenue which the town received. Then there was the Town Loan, which would include the Deacon Warriner legacy of $666.66, and the amount derived from the sale of the two school lots, about $416, total $1,082.66. The treasurer also received, in addition to the amounts given above, "Mar. 28, 1864 From Town Loan Com. 799.87 July 20, 1864 " " School fund 98.67 Nov. 22, 1851 ' " 101.91 1010.45' These accounts do not quite balance, and the remainder was doubtless received by the treasurer and entered with the "interest from loan Com." Previous to 1837, the interest on the Town Loan, for many years, was $56.09. That would be the interest, at 6 per cent on $934.84. From 1838 to about 1863 the treasurer received different amounts each year as "interest on the town loan." The town, having used the funds, to pay various expenses, the selectmen gave a note to the Loan Committee, probably in 1866. The note probably was for $1,705.17. The yearly interest on that note, at 6 per cent, would be $102.31, and that sum was paid each year as interest on the "Town Loan" up to March 15th, 1878, when the South Parish was set off as the Town of Hampden, and L suppose they assimied their propor- tion of the town debts, according to the respective valuation of the two parishes, which was, North Parish, about 8-13, South Parish about 5-13 of the entire valuation of the town, which was, $950,649. The present Town Loan Committee, Mr. J. M. Perry, in- forms me that the note which he now has is dated March 31, 1911, and signed by F. W. Green and G. L. Rindge, selectmen, and was given to replace one that had become dilapidated. The amount of the note is $1308.40, and the interest, $78.50, is The History of Wilbraham 231 paid yearly by the town and added to the amount appropriated for schools. The source from which this fund was derived was about as follows : 1780, Legacy from Deacon Nathaniel Warriner, $666.66 1772, Sale of 2 School lots, 8-13 of same, about, 256.00 Other Sources, perhaps some from surplus revenue, 385.74 $1,308.40 A Mr. Clark, who left the county, is said to have given his lot for the support of schools. It is quite probable that within a few years the town will be required to restore this fund, and place it on deposit, so that there will be an actual income received from it, which will be applied to the support of schools. The state authorities are looking up such matters in the towns throughout the state, and in some cases have found that such funds have disappeared, probably through carelessness in bookkeeping, and the source from which the fund was derived, or the names of the donors of it, have been forgotten. In the case of Wilbraham, the town borrowed the money from the Town Loan Committee and gave a note for it. The interest has been paid yearly and added to the amount appropriated for schools. If it is restored, as I expect it will be, I hope it will be deposited in a savings bank and called. The Deacon Warriner & School Lot Fund. Since the foregoing was written, eight reports of the Town Loan Committee have been found among bundles of old papers in the town clerk's office. They are for the years ending April 1st, 1842, '43, '44, 1852, '53, '54, '55, '57. In the eariier reports the accounts of the "Old Town Loan" and of the "Surplus Revenue" are kept separate. In 1843, the total amount of the "Old Town Loan" is reported to be $934.61, and the "Surplus Revenue" as $4,111.65. These figures vary but a few cents from those which I have previously given. In 1852, the "Com- mittee on the Town Loan and Surplus Revenue" report, "That agreeabel to a Vote of the Town last April, we have collected the amount required, on obligations notes and bonds due the 232 The History of Wilbraham town, the sum of $2,334.00, and have paid the same to the Town Treasurer." As I have already said, most of this last sum was probably used to build the bridge over Chicopee River, at North Wilbraham. Judging from these reports, the figures which I have previously given are substantially correct. BRIDGE OVER CHICOPEE RIVER AT NORTH WILBRAHAiM. Built about 18.')2. THE MILLERITE EXCITEMENT The history of the times, from about 1840, to about 1860, would hardly be complete without some reference to the weird and startling teachings of a class of preachers who proclaimed, with great earnestness and zeal, that the end of the world was swiftly approaching. The "Stebbins History" says: "Then came the Millerites, or 'Adventists' as they are now called, and awakened great interest and not a little terror in some minds, by their ' demon- strations ' from the horns of Daniel's beasts, and the 'time and times and half a time ' of his prophecies, that the world would be burned up in April 1843. Fortunately or unfortunately, the consuming fire did not descend nor the watching saints ascend, and the ' demonstrations ' failing, a large portion of the interest failed with it." But the interest continued to some extent. About 1854, I remember hearing Dr. Abial Bottom, of South Thp: History of Wilbraham 233 Wilbraham, telling my great-uncle, Dr. Gideon Kibbe, of an experience of his, while driving along our Main Street towards his home, a little south of "The Green." It was in the early evening and suddenly his horse stopped, apparently half frightened at something he saw up in a tree close at hand. The doctor himself looked and saw a shape resembling a human figure, up among the branches and he asked, "What are you doing up there, this time of night ?' " A woman's voice answered, substantially, "Before the morning sun shall rise, the fires from heaven will descend and this earth will be melted in the fierce heat. I have on my ascension robe, and am waiting to be wafted to the realms of light beyond the skies." The sound of the woman's voice relieved the anxiety of the horse, and the doctor drove on to his home without giving any advice. About 1854, a barn was burned on the east side of our Main Street, just north of the Soldiers' Monument lot. I heard it told that a meeting was held in a near-by house, an evening or two afterwards, and one of the speakers, in a state of great excitement, was discussing the imminent conflagration of the world, and he went on to tell how the trial of fire had already commenced, and said, "Before another week shall pass, the fires shall descend and destroy another building here in Wilbra- ham." Sure enough, within the week, the barn next to the other took fire and was entirely destroyed. One of these barns stood in the rear of the house now owned by F. A. Gumey, and the other in rear of the old "Virgin House" which was torn down a few years ago. I do not re- member which burned first. I was then about ten years old and, with other boys, ran to each fire, when the alarm bell sounded. I remember attending a camp meeting, in the grove on the hill easterly of Grace Church, in 1854, or 1855, when the Crimean War was being fought, and the speaker referred to the conflict then being waged in the Far East, and went on to say that the war in the Crimea would spread over the entire earth, and that every nation of the world would become involved in it, and, "THEN THE END WILL COME." 234 The History or Wilbraham In these days, it is hard to realize the state of mind of those persons who believed in that doctrine. But I believe that most of them were sincere. The following is copied from a sermon, delivered on the pre- diction that the world would come to an end in 1843. THE FALSE ALARM A DISCOURSE, ON THE SIGNS OF THE TIMES, AS REPRESENTED BY MR. MILLER AND OTHERS, TO PORTEND THE SECOND COMING OF CHRIST IN THE YEAR 1843. DELIVERED IN The Congregational Church, SOUTH WILBRAHAM Sabbath Evening, June 12th, 1842. By JAMES A. HAZEN, PASTOR OF THE CHURCH. "A copy of the sermon was furnished for publication at the request of a committee from the society, dated June 23, 1842, and signed by: S. Clark Spelman, 1 Cortez Russell, > Committee John S. Beebe, J The History of Wilbraham 235 "DISCOURSE " But can ye not discern the signs of the times ? " — Matt. 16 :3. . . . . " It is not my present design to go into a general con- sideration of the signs of the times. "My course is determined by recent strange doings in the community. A class of men have arisen, who by means of papers, books, and public lectures, are attempting to alarm the public mind, with the idea that some unusual crisis is at hand. They boldly maintain, that the signs of the present time are such as the scriptures inform us shall immediately precede the second coming of Christ, and the dissolution of the world. "The awful nature of the subject forbids, that in handling it, I should have any regard to personal feelings or prejudices. .... (He then speaks of some interesting phenomena in those times, and says): "Our only course, therefore, is to look back, and to compare the present with the past. Go back, then, in imagination, one hundred years, and look around upon the prodigies then taking place. . . . (He then mentions an earthquake of prodigious extent in Europe and Africa which) .... has shaken half the globe, buried cities in ruins, split the earth into hideous chasms, which have swallowed many thousands of mankind .... and tossed the ocean into an unusual ferment for thousands of miles. . . . Strange meteros, .... a fier}^ bloody-colored sky .... three unusual circles intersecting the sun and each other. . . . This is a description given by an eye-witness, of events which took place about the middle of the last century. So far is it from being true that the present time is distinguished by such events, that you can fix on no period since the beginning of the Christian era, when they have been less frequent. ... So far, there- fore, as these signs are concerned, we should suppose that we were on the eve of the reign of universal peace, rather than of the world's dissolution. I must then ask, What think ye of the men, who in the face of these facts, presume to talk in the fol- lowing manner? 'Who is so blind as not to be able to see in the present age a fulfillment of the above-mentioned signs. . . 'r* .... Think again of that strange compound of reason and madness, Emmanuel Swedenborg, the learned Swedish noble- man. What was the main element of his delusion ? It was, that in 1757, Christ came to judgment, and began the new heavens, * "The Midnight Cry," p. 65. 236 The History of Wilbraham and the new earth ! That strange community the Shakers, had their origin also, in the same thing. Anna Leese, their mother, maintained that her coming was the second coming of Christ! And the Monnons — the abhorrence, and the laughing stock of the world, interweave the same doctrine into their abominable system. . . . "How unhappy for their cause, then, is the metaphor which these men employ, when they say 'The gospel, like the sun, arose in the East, and will set in the West!' .... They maintain with the boldest effrontry, that the result of their speculations upon the prophecies, has the same claim to our belief as any doctrine of revealed truth. . . . The natural result of such a representation, I need not describe. When yonder little girl said, ' Mother, I want to die this summer — I don't want to live next year and be burnt up,' she gave a better view of it than could be obtained from any lengthened description of mine. And now it is proclaimed to the world, that God does 'own and bless' the preaching of this doctrine. .... Now my friends, I place myself in imagination for- ward beyond the year 1843. ... I see the sun as usual rolling around the world, and men engaged as they now are, in the pursuits of life. I pause and listen to the talk of different classes of men. Yonder I see a club of infidels, and as they make merry, and fill the air with profane jests, I hear such expressions as these: 'Aye, I knew it was so. The Bible is proved a lie, and its religion priestcraft.' I see them — with new zeal scatter the books of Voltaire and Paine, and with them 'The Midnight Cry ' ! I look again, and I see another circle, who talk in the following manner: 'Aye, I knew it was so. The notion of a general judgment is a bugbear; the necessity of conversion is a mere dogma; revivals of religion are all a farce.' .... Oh, tell me not that this will do no harm. I therefore feel called upon for myself, and in behalf of the friends of truth, now beforehand, solemnly to protest, that we disown all par- ticipation in this scheme, and we disclaim all responsibility for its results. . . . And to the man, who, in 1844, shall attempt to turn this scheme and its results against the Bible, and against religion. I say Hold! This scheme is no part of the Bible. . . It is a scheme of wicked or deluded men ; and to their account place its results. . . . Let nothing which I have said lead to the idea, that I have any feeling of animosity toward the men, who are engaged in propagating this scheme. For if they are under a delusion, I do most sincerely, and deeply pity them. . . . But if mv fellow men will not hear this message, The History of Wilbraham 237 which God has bid me deHvcr, I may not resort to cunningly devised fables: for the moment that I do, I place myself on the same level with the priest of the heathen temple, and the minister of the man of sin. The gospel which we preach com- mends itself to every man's conscience; and God forbid that I should forsake this and turn to fables. . . . May God give me grace never to fear to speak the whole truth, when duty demands it, even though I shall thereby drive from me my nearest friends." THE CIVIL WAR In introducing the subject of the Revolutionary War, Dr. Stebbins said: "The epic of this period yet remains to be recited. ... In this hour of our country's trial and peril, when the continent trembles under the tread of contending armies, and the air is torn with the thunder of cannon, and the war shout." If the Revolutionary War was the epic of that period, then the account of the times which we are approaching, may be called the story of the tragic days of 1861-1865. At the centennial celebration of the incorporation of the town, speaking of the work which had been wrought here by our ancestors. Rev. Dr. Stebbins, near the close of his address, said: "As they nobly bore their share in the burdens and perils of the war of invasion, and of independence, so now you rise in the glory of your strength to crush rebellion and vindicate free- dom. If Warriner, and Warner, and Merrick, and Bliss, and Brewer, and Chapin, and Langdon, and Stebbins, and Morris, rushed to the field to throw off the yoke of British oppression, and wring from royal lips the confession of our independence and nationality, their sons, not less patriotic, not less heroic, have left home and wife and child, to 'preserve' the sacred ark of liberty and the holy standard of freedom. The blood of the loved and the brave has been poured out like water that the sin of oppression may be attoned for ; and the cry for help from the struggling country .... will not be disregarded. . . . The hour of God's eternal purpose has struck. Not sprinkled with the blood of lambs, but with the blood of men, does he now keep his people's passo\-cr. The flaming sword of the 238 The History of Wilbraham avenging angel stretches over the land, and the bondmen go out under it. Glory to God in the Highest." Today, fifty years afterwards, it is hard for most of us to realize the tremendous import of those prophetic words. When they were spoken here, the War of the Rebellion was at its worst. The battle of Gettysburg had not been fought, and Vicksburg had not fallen. The tide of battle, of victory and defeat, flowed backward and forward in an irregular line across the continent, from the Atlantic to beyond the Missis- sippi, in an awful sea of blood. At that time, about one hundred and fifty of the men of Wilbraham, with sword or musket in their hands, offered their bodies as a breastwork to stay the on-rushing forces of dis- union and disintegration. And today, because of their heroic service, and that of the hundreds of thousands who served with them, we have a reunited, and a United country. It is prac- tically impossible, at this time, to convey to the minds of the generations bom since those eventful days, any conception of the feeling of intense anxiety and suppressed excitement which pervaded the entire North during the early part of 1861, and for several years previous. The question of the extension of slavery into the new states, then being settled in the West, kept the entire country in a turmoil of excitement. A special committee of Congress was appointed to investigate the ' ' Troubles in Kansas. ' ' A minority of the committee reported in 1856. Their report fills a volume of more than twelve hundred pages. On page 445, I find that Edmund Jones voted at an election held in their town of Lawrence on March 30, 1855. Edmund Jones was a Wilbraham man. How long he remained out there I do not know. But late in the autumn of 1855 or 1856 he came back to Wilbraham, and one evening quite a large company of his friends and neighbors gathered in the old First Church (the one which was moved down from Wigwam Hill), while he told some of his experiences in that hastily settled state. "Bleeding Kansas," it was then generally called. The History of Wilbraham 239 As I remember the occasion, the incidents he related were mostly concerning the numerous street brawls and fights which occurred among those early pioneers, drawn there by the all- important question of whether Kansas should be a free or a slave state. We may well believe that, through him, Wilbra- ham had a voice, or a vote, in settling that important question. Mr. Jones lived for a good many years in the house on the west side of Main Street, opposite the road which leads up to the Woodland Dell Cemetery. It is the house with the colonial pillars. He built it. The question of the extension of slavery had agitated the country for a long time, and was regarded by different sections of our union of states in such an entirely different way, that none of the compromises attempted were sufficient to settle the difficulty, and one sad day, April 12th, 1861, the voice of the cannon demanded the surrender of the United States forces at Fort Sumter, S. C. On April 15th, only three days later. Presi- dent Lincoln called for 75,000 volunteers for three months. On April 20th, 1861, Charles E. Buell, of this town, enlisted in answer to that call. He was the first man to enlist from Wil- braham, and when the three months were completed, he reenlisted into the 10th Massachusetts Infantry, which was then gathering on Hampden Park in Springfield. His home was about one mile north of our Center village, on the west side of Main Street, where Mr. and Mrs. Nathaniel Knowlton lived until a short time ago. The place is now owned by Mr. O. L. Millard. The cannon at Fort Sumter aroused the North as from a trance, party distinctions were for a time swept away, and there was but one party worth the name — the party for the Union. In Wilbraham, "War Meetings," usually addressed by local speakers, were held every few weeks, in one of the churches, and the principal thought in each address was, "The Union, It Must And Shall Be Preserved." And the young men were importuned and entreated to give their lives, if need be, to preserve the Union established by the fathers. And — the young men responded. About sixty enlisted during the re- mainder of the vear of 1861, and before the war was ended the 240 The History of Wilbraham town of Wilbraham had furnished 228 men for the army and navy, as shown on the RebelHon Records of our town. The "History of Massachusetts in the Civil War," published by William Schouler in 1871, gives us credit for "two hundred and twenty three men for the war (and adds) which was a surplus of twenty-six over and above all demands. . . . Four were com- missioned officers. . . . The whole amount of money appro- priated and expended by the town on account of the war, exclusive of State aid, was thirteen thousand two hundred and fifty-five dollars. ($13,255.00). ' ' The amount of money raised and expended by the town for State aid to soldiers families during the war, and which was repaid by the Commonwealth, was ten thousand eight hundred six dollars and ten cents. ($10,806.10)." The same History says: "The ladies of Wilbraham contributed liberally of their time and means to the comfort of the soldiers. One lady made two feather-beds into pillows for them." The pillows were probably sent to some hospital. They would have been comfortable in camp but very inconvenient to carry while on the march. No bounties were paid to those who enlisted until after July 1st, 1862. On July 26th, 1862, "The selectmen were authorized to pay a bounty of one hundred dollars to each volunteer for three years' service, when mustered in and credited to the quota of the town, the number not to exceed twenty. On August 28, 1862, the town voted to pay a bounty of one hundred and twenty-five dollars to each volunteer for nine months' service, and about one month later this amount was increased to two hundred dollars. On July 28, 1864, the treasurer was authorized to borrow, not exceeding eight thou- sand dollars, " to be called a recruiting fund," and to be used to procure men to fill the quota of the town under the recent call of the President for more men. It having been reported that some of the men who had enlisted from Wilbraham had been credited to other towns, Porter Cross and Sumner Smith were chosen "to investigate the matter at Boston," and have the rolls there corrected. The History of Wilbraham !^-il At a meeting held January 16th, 1865, the following resolu- tion was passed : "Resolved, That a vote of thanks be tendered to General B. F. Butler for his services in the United States military department during the present civil war."' The injustice of paying bounties to the soldiers who enlisted in the second, third, or fourth years of the war, and not paying anything to those who enlisted during the first year, has been considered for a long time, until the legislature of 1912 passed "An Act to provide for suitably rewarding certain veteran soldiers and sailors." Chapter 702, Acts of 1912: "For the purpose of promoting the spirit of loyalty and patriotism, and in recognition of the sacrifice made both for the commonwealth and for the United States by those veteran soldiers and sailors who volunteered their services in the civil war, .... a gra- tuity of one hundred and twenty-five dollars to each veteran (then living), is hereby authorized to be paid from the treasury of the commonwealth. (To those not having received any bounty from the state or any town, and not being intended as an equalization of bounty), .... but a testimonial for meritorious service, such as the commonwealth may rightly give, and such as her sons may honorably accept and receive." So far as I have learned, there are only two veteran soldiers of Wilbraham now living, who are entitled to this gratuity, James S. A I organ, and The war ended in the summer of 1865, and the flags which the different regiments had borne in that conflict, some of them in many battles, were returned to the custody of the state on December 22, 1865. "The Adjutant General of Massachusetts, in his report for that year, addressed to the Governor, says: 'The most inter- esting State military ceremony at the close of the war, was the reception, by your Excellency, of the colors of the different regiments and batteries at the State House, on the 22nd of December, the two hundred and forty-fifth anniversary of the landing of the 'Pilgrim Fathers,' at Plymouth. It was a 242 The History of Wilbraham ceremony which can never be repeated, and will forever form an interesting part of the written and performed history of the war.' Nearly every Massachusetts regiment was represented in the column of veterans which bore the battle flags to the State House. The head of the procession reached the Capitol about one o-clock. As the regiments arrived, the color-bearers deployed upon the steps in front of the edifice, while the re- mainder gathered in the yards on either side. A prayer was offered; then Major General Darius N. Couch, the ranking officer of volunteers in Massachusetts, addressed Governor Andrew (in part) as follows: " 'May it please your Excellency: We have come here to-day as the representatives of the army of volunteers fur- nished by Massachusetts for the suppression of the rebellion, bringing these colors in order to return them to the State who intrusted them to our keeping. You must, however, pardon us if we give them up with profound regret. — -It is, sir, a peculiar satisfaction and pleasure to us that you — who have been identi- fied with every organization before you, are now here to receive back as the State custodian of her precious relics, these emblems of the devotion of her sons. May it please your Excellency, the colors of the Massachusetts Volunteers are returned to the State.' Gov. Andrew replied in the following brief but beautiful and eloquent address: ' General: This pageant, so full of pathos and of glory, forms the concluding scene in the long series of visible actions and events, in which Massachusetts has borne a part, for the overthrow of rebellion and the vindication of the Union. These banners return to the Government of the Com- monwealth through welcome hands. Borne, one by one, out of this Capitol, during more than four years of civil war, as the symbols of the Nation and the Commonwealth, under which the battalions of Massachusetts departed to the field — they come back again, borne hither by surviving representatives of the same heroic regiments and companies to which they were intrusted. . . . Proud memories of many a field; sweet memories alike of valor and friendship; sad memories of fra- ternal strife; tender memories of our fallen brothers and sons, whose dying eyes looked last upon their flaming folds; grand memories of heroic virtues sublimed by grief ; exultant memories of the great and final Victory of our Country, our Union and the Righteous Cause; thankful memories of a deliverance wrought out for Human Nature itself, unexampled by any former achievement of arms; immortal memories with im- mortal honors blended, twine around these staves, weave them- The History of Wilbraham 243 selves alono; the warp and woof of these familiar flags, war- worn, begrimmed and baptized with blood. . . . General: I accept these relics in behalf of the people and the Government. They will be preserved and cherished, amid all the vicissitudes of the future, _ as mementoes of brave men and noble actions' .... The immense throng then dispersed, and the colors were placed in the Doric Hall of the State House." The Adjutant General concludes his report of that occasion as follows: "As a fitting finale to this grand pageant, I place on record the noble lyric addressed to your Excellency by a gentleman who has borne a brave and noble part in this great war; — one who, when the war begun, was chief of your personal staff, and who afterwards resigned that position and went to the war as Lieutenant-Colonel of the First Regiment Massachusetts Cavalry, afterwards promoted to Colonel, and who, wounded and broken in health, came home after three years active military service, with the stars of a Brigadier General upon his shoulders, earned by meritorious conduct and conspicuous gallantry. . . . Severe domestic affliction prevented Briga- dier-General Sargent from appearing in the procession. He saw it from his window pass along. The sight filled his heart, and he wrote this lyric: — " (I, personally, take a particular pride in this lyric, because, The First Massachusetts Cavalry, was my regiment. I copy a part.) "THE RETURN OF THE STANDARDS "Hark to the fife and drum! Look at them ! How they come I Horse and foot, how they come ! All of them ? No ! for some — Some of the best of them — Azrael tested them — Did not come back. Where are the rest of them. Some of the youngest, And bravest, and best of them? Ask parlor strategists. Wont to make jest of them ! Azrael, Azrael, Azrael tested them. 244 The History of Wilbraham "Here comes my regiment, — God! what a skeleton! Hardly a peloton Of the battalions That went from the land ! Hush ! Look at the flanks of them I See those dim ranks of them ! Violet banks of them ! All the command! As it loomed in the old time From fog of Sea Islands And black whirlwinds of sand. ' ' Ah ! That fierce gathering ! Quivering ! Quivering ! Cloud rack, all feathery, Against the wind shivering! Sabres bend trembling, In hands of the dead ! Like fog meeting headland. These spectres from Deadland, These ghosts of the red-hand. From over the Border, Break ranks in disorder, And melt against shadows Of sunlight and shade. "The startled air quivers; The pageant has fled. Their presence but seeming ! I The soldiers are dreaming, ^, In the graves where they lie, '- That they rise from the dead.- Where guidons are streaming, Where trumpets are screaming, And cannon's flash gleamilig, • And sabre points beaming, The soldiers are dreaming The dreams of the dead. All their effort is seeming. All voiceless their screaming ; In uneasy graves dreaming Nightmares of the Dead. The History of Wilbraham 245 "Soldiers! in tattered rags, Tom as your shattered flags, Under your battle rags, Glorious blood-spattered flags, Sheltered to-day. As you march up the hill, Men feel their eyelids fill, — Women's warm pulses thrill. As the ghosts mute and still. Breathe on them icy chill; And the guns thunder, till All fades away. Till the century's pageant Has faded away." "Boston, Forefather's Day, December 22, 1865." In these days of peace, when it is my privilege, as it some- times has been, to pass with uncovered head, through that beautiful Doric Hall in our noble State House which adorns Beacon Hill, and view those battle-worn banners of the Massa- chusetts organizations which nobly did their part for the pres- ervation of the Union, and when I gaze again, as in those dis- tant days, upon the loved and cherished colors of my own regiment, now preserved and guarded there, there comes rush- ing into my memory an outline of the forms and features of the four different "chums," with whom I was the most intimately associated, as we marched, and camped, and fought during those more than three eventful years. Three of those "chums " died in the service. Two of disease and exposure, and one was shot to death on the night of the 3d of June just fifty years and two weeks ago tonight, while we were carrying a despatch from Sulphur Springs to Warrenton, Va. One only of the four was permitted to return with me to our dear New England homes. And a few years since, in a western state, he too surrendered to the impact of the hurrying years. I recall how, when the hard day's march was ended and we had orders to "Dismount! and go into camp," one would take the canteens of both, and hurry off across the fields in search of water, sometimes half a mile away, while the other would gather bits of wood and dead 246 The History of Wilbraham branches of trees and start a little fire and begin frying the salt pork, and when the water came, we would boil the coffee in our tin cups, feed our horses from the oats which they had carried all day on their backs, and while they were eating their supper, we would eat ours, and then we would spread a blanket or two on the ground, lie down on them, cover ourselves with other blankets, and with our saddles for pillows, and our weapons by our sides, sleep through the night. There wasn't much variety in our food. We usually had salt pork, hard-tack, coffee for breakfast, coffee, salt pork, hard-tack for dinner, and hard-tack coffee, and salt pork for supper. Sometimes, a chicken would fly into our arms or — be secured in some other way — and then we would have a feast. One evening we had boiled a chicken in our tin cups, over our little camp-fire for an hour or more, until it was about half cooked, intending to finish the cooking while we were feeding and caring for our horses in the morning. About eleven o'clock the bugle rang out the call, "Boots and saddles," and the Orderly Sergeant came running along among the sleeping men, crying, " Saddle up ! mount up ! everybody ! everything ! ' ' While sitting on our horses, waiting for the order to "Fall in!" we devoured that half-cooked fowl. It was pretty tough, but it was tougher to lose it. After some ininutes' waiting, the order came, "Dismount, unsaddle, and go into camp." We did not have any chicken next morning for breakfast. On a May morning in 1863, my company was on the skirmish line charging through the town of Culpeper, Va., driving the enemy before us as fast as their horses could gallop, and occa- sionally getting a shot at some of the fleeing foe. When we were about through the village the bugle sounded the order "Halt." We understood that the order meant that we were getting too far in advance of the rest of our forces, and might have to wait a half hour or so for them to come up. It so happened that a comrade and myself were in the main street and halted directly in front of a neat cottage by the side of the road. While we were keeping a close lookout for the enemy down the road, we were soon aware that someone was watching The History of Wilbraham 247 us through the windows from the inside of the house, and presently the door slowly oj^ened and a girl, about our own age, came carefully out. We had scarcely seen a girl for almost two years, and oh! she looked good to us home-hungry boys. I suppose her investigation through the window had convinced her that we boys did not look very dangerous, especially to a girl. We soon got into conversation, which quickly drifted to the war and its probable results, and my comrade remarked, "That it seemed a pity for the South to waste so many lives and so much effort in a contest in which they were almost cer- tain to be defeated in the end." And the young woman answered in words that I have always remembered, "Oh!" she said, "To me the cause of the South looks as bright as the sun." That bright, impulsive girl, filled with. love and enthu- siasm and zeal, as she stood there that May morning, has been a bright spot in my memory for more than fifty years. For the two dreadful years following, she was compelled to watch the bright sun of her hope slowly descending, until it finally set in total darkness and the welcome night of rest from sectional strife brooded lovingly over the land. And oh! I hope she has lived to see the dawning of this better day, when "Yank," and "Johnny Reb," shake each other's hands in true brotherly affection, and we are all glad that we are now members of one prosperous and united country; something which could never have been, if her dream had come true. Fifty years ago last night, in company with the rest of my regiment, and other regiments of our brigade, we camped on the field where, nearly a year previous, the second battle of Bull Run had been fought. We slept on the ground, with our horses fastened to our wrists, as we did on many nights, when there was no other means of securing them. Next morning, after breakfast, (with the details of which you are already familiar) we moved off in a northwesterly direction towards the Blue Ridge Mountains. It was just fifty years ago this very day, and was to be the most trying day in the history of the First Massachusetts Cavalrv', during our more than three years of war. After marching some fifteen or twcntv miles we encountered the 248 The History of Wilbraham enemy just beyond the village of Aldie, about mid-afternoon. The 2nd New York Cavalry was in the advance, and com- menced the engagement. General Kilpatrick, who commanded our brigade, rode in front of our regiment and said, pointing to some hills in front, "1st Massachusetts I want you and the 2nd New York to gain those hills." I shall not attempt to give a detailed history of the battle, only of the results. We went in on the right and not finding the enemy very strong at first drove them nearly a mile, when we came against three regi- ments of Virginia Cavalry who charged us in earnest. A regi- ment sent to our assistance failed to arrive and we were scattered and overwhelmed. About fifty or sixty of our regiment, all that were left there, sprang from our horses, and with our carbines, partly sheltered by a stone wall, held the hills we had been ordered to gain. While the bullets were whistling through the air. General Kilpatrick rode clear up to our position and taking off his hat said to us, " Men of the 1st Massachusetts, you have done all your duty, but I must ask you to do something more. If you will hold this ground fifteen minutes longer I will have the 1st Maine here to relieve you." After such an address, at such a time, soldiers, worthy of the name, would hold their ground if they knew that a thousand bullets would whistle through their worthless bodies. At such supreme moments, the cheek may blanch and the knees tremble, but the immortal soul of man, rising on the mountain tops of inspiration, commands its quaking tenement to do its will. We held that ground until relieved. Near the close of the day, when all of the scattered ones were gathered in, out of the 294 who went into that fight, only 96 answered the roll-call. 30 were killed, 66 wounded, and 102 were prison- ers, on their way to the prison pens of the South. At this time the entire Army of the Potomac was on the march northward, towards Gettysburg. On the evening of July 1st we went into camp about twenty or thirty miles south- The History of Wilbraham 249 easterly of that now famous town. We had hardly stretched ourselves upon the ground to sleep, when the bugle rang out the call, "Boots and Saddles," and we mounted our horses and marched away, until about one or two o'clock in the morning, when we again went into camp in an open field. There wxre a lot of cobblestones on the ground, and I began to clear them away from the spot where my chum and I must make our bed. We were all tired, and he said, "Oh! never mind about those stones, let's get to sleep." He had been married in the early summer of 1862, and life with him was one glad sweet song in his happy home in Ash- field, Mass. But, the call of his country in distress, came sounding across the states from the far south-land, saying to him, "Come! Come! Come, !" and, he heard the call, and tore himself away from that atmosphere of love and luxury, and was plunged into the hard discipline and privations of life in camp, and the awful excitement of battle. The next morning, July 2nd, 1863, while we were preparing our breakfast of "hard- tack," etc., I thought he was more quiet than usual, and look- ing at him closely, I saw there were tears on his cheeks and asked him what was the matter. He answered that he had been thinking about what we were to have for breakfast, and it made him homesick. I did not know it then, but I learned later, that that morning, while we were preparing our frugal meal out there in that barren pasture, there was a baby boy in his home at Ashfield whom he had never seen, and would not see for more than another year. Oh ! when we think of the hardships the soldiers endured, we are apt to consider only the physical side of their nature, and forget that they have emotions and affections. I shall not attempt to give any account of that dreadful war between the states, and have mentioned these few incidents to illustrate some of the experiences of a soldier's life in active service. 250 The History of Wilbraham Crowded with such experiences the three years of our enlist- ment dragged away, the day of our deliverance dawned and to our surprise found some of us upon the earth. The flow- ing waters of the James River, winding through historic Vir- ginia, where, in the early dawn of this great nation, the untutored Indian maid stayed the red man's hand, bore us on its swelling bosom east and northward to the sea. An occa- sional friendly Monitor, with never-dying fires and guns full loaded for an ever-raiding foe, stood sentinel along that liquid highway, and with sounding whistle, which our ship answered, bade us Godspeed on our homeward way. Our souls exulted in this new freedom. The dear "North," which had lived in our hearts, fair as the "Promised Land," and which many of those whom we had known would never see again came at last within our vision. On a beautiful morning in November, after more than three years' absence, I entered my home. ^ My mother, coming down from upstairs at the sound of the opening door, met her boy, still under age, standing in the center of the kitchen floor. After the close of the Civil War, the town found that they were owing quite a large sum of money. On May 8th, 1865, it was "voted to raise $23,000.00 to pay the debts of the town." On May 31st, "Voted to rescind the above vote." "Voted to raise $15,000.00 for the debts." The total valuation of the town in 1865, was $802,774. The tax rate that year was $33.50 on $1,000. The total amount of the tax was $27,927.60. In 1868 the tax rate was $28 on $1,000 of valuation. And so, in those few years, the "War Debt" was paid, and it was much easier to do it then than it would have been ten or fifteen years later, owing to the depreciation of the paper money in circulation at that time. A few years ago, there were some towns in our state that were still paying interest on their "War Debt," and there may be some now. The History of Wilbraham 251 SPENCER MAGAZINE CARBINE AND SABRE HILT. Made by C. M. Spencer, Hartford, Conn. One of the first made. It was carried through the Civil War in Company F. 1st Mass. Cavalry, as follows: 1st by Lieut Myron C. Pratt. Killed in a skirmish at Snickers Ferry, Va., Nov. 3, 1862. 2nd by Lieut Francis O Lombard of Springfield. Killed at Mine Run, Va., Nov. 27, 1863. 3d by Sergt Bernard Newell of Greenfield. Killed at Newmarket, Va., July 28, 1864. 4th by Chauncey E. Peck, who brought it home. The permit to do so stated that the carbine was private property and not a' government weapon. The Sabre Hilt is part of a sabre taken from a Confederate prisoner, captured in a skirmish near Pocotaligo, S. C, May, 1862. When we got into camp, the blade was broken into four pieces and each of the captors had a piece. The hilt was my share. The .separate pieces were wrapped in newspapers and sent home. The other pieces of the blade are probably in Mass. today. SOLDIERS OF WILBRAHAM IN THE CIVIL WAR 1861-'65 With name of Regiment, time of service, number of engage- ments, and if killed or died in the army. IsT Mass. Cavalry Chauncey E. Peck Stephen Lucas, Jr. Henrj' Rood William R. Eggleston 1st Mass. Inf.^ntry Sergt. Junius Beebe Cyrus N. Hudson 5th Mass. Infantry Eugene Cadv Willis F. Chaffee Charles A. Taintor John Truden Cyriel E. Scripter Enlisted Discharged Battles Remarks Sep. 24, 1861 Sep. 12, 1861 Aug. 25, 1862 Aug. 20, 1862 Jan. 15, 1862 Aug. — , 1862 Nov. 7, 1864 Sep. 13, 1864 Jan. 10, 1863 June 29, 1865 Dec. 25, 1863 34 1 1 23 3 Deserted Died *8th Mass. Infantry, 100 Days. Eugene S. Allen Harlan P. Rockwood Eugene Pease Julv Julv July Julv Julv Julv 12 12 12 12 12 12 1864 1864 1864 1864 1864 1864 After 100 days Also in Navy Francis Pease Henrv Wetherbee Robert R. Wright, Jr. ♦"Service was Provost Duty at the City of Baltimore, Manland.' 252 The History of Wilbraham Mustered Discharged Battles Remarks 10th Mass. Infantry. Sergt. George F. Holdridge June 21, 1861? June — , 1864 5 Charles E. Buell Apr. 20, 1861 Apr. 17, 1863 4 John Fowle June 21, 1861? ? Oscar J. Gilligan Henry Gray Mar. is, 1863 Reeulisted ............"! July 22, 1863 L^'man E. Gray ? July — , 1863 Seneca I. Harris ..........."! 4 Horace L. Jones ............"! Jan. 7, 1863' Stephen Millard John Neff ........... A June21,'lS6l' Mav'28, 1864' 9 Died George Robinson ?lMay 5, 1864 8 Killed William Smith ?j John H. Baity Noy. 13, 1863 June 3, 1864' Killed J. M. Templeman 18th Mass. Infantry ? Henr^' D. Gleason Aug. — , 1861? Sergt. Gilbert Rockwood, Jr. .\ug. 10, 1861 perhaps 1864? 15 Charles Saunders 9j 21st Mas.s. Infantry. 1 Corp. William H. Brackett .A.ug. — , 1861? June — , 1862 Died Ransom S. Burr ? perhaps 1864? 27th Mass. Infantry. Lieut. Joseph W. Holmes Sep. — , 1862 : May 15, 1865 Lieut. Cyrus W. Goodale Oct. — , 1861? i Oct. 30, 1862 Died Sergt. George W. Hobart Oct. 23, 1861 Oct. 16, 1864 Died in prison Sergt. Newton E. Kellogg Oct. 1, 1861 about 1865 Corp. James M. King Sep. 6, 1861 July 20, 1865 Corp. James E. Perry Corp. James S. Morgan 1861? Oct. 9, 1861 Sep. 27, 1864' 14 Charles S. Bates Sep. 28, 1861? Sep. 22, 1862 Died Robert B. W. Bliss Sep. 28, 1861 Nov. — , 1864 Died in prison Seth W. Buxton Oct. 13, 1861 about 1864? Charles H. Burr 1861? Apr. 8, 1862 Died Henry Bushey Sept.28, 1861 June — 1864? Died William H. Chapin Sept. 28, 1861 about 1865? Charles S. Clark Oct. 7, 1861 about 1863? Wounded Albert J. Collins Oct. 5, 1861 Oct. 19, 1864 Died in prison Ga. James N. Dorroch Oct. — , 1861 Benjamin C. Dayis Oct. 1, 1861 ; about i860? John K. Fuller Oct. 1, 1861 1 about 1865? Prisoner George E. Fuller Oct. 1, 1861 Sept. 27 1864 Also in U. S. .service. Charles R. Fay Nov. 1, 1861 Nov. 1, 1864 Lucius W. Gleason Oct. 3, 1861 Sept. 27, 1864 8 Charles J. Gloyer Oct. 1, 1861 Aug. 24, 1865 Prisoner about 1 yr. Damon N. Haskell Oct. 9, 1861 Sept. 27 1864 10 Almond Lard Oct. — , 1861? Oct. 6, 1864 Died in prison, Ga. Albert C. Lucas Sept.28, 1861 about 1865? Dennis McGowan Oct. 4, 1861 about 1865? James Rice Oct. 3, 1861 Oct. 24 1862 Died Harrison Rowe Sept.28, 1861 Mar. 8, 1865 Killed Joseph Twinkler Sept.28, 1861 Oct. 9, 1864 Died William P. Truden July — , 1862 about 1865? Albert S. Vaughn Aug. 3, 1862 Oct. — , 1862 Died Charles H. Arnold Dec. 12, 1863 June 5 1865? 1 Also in 46th Regt. Elmer Jewett Jan. 4, 1864 Sept. 26 1864 Died in prison. Nelson Sheldon Dec. 12, 1863 June 26 1865 Elias S. Keyes Sept. 1, 1864 1865? 1 Prisoner Henry Gorman Jan. 26, 1865 1865? 31sT Mass. Infantry. Samuel S. Alden 1861? George W. Bennett Nov. 8, 1861 Died at N. 0. 1862 Russell D. Crocker Nov. 8, 1861 Pelatiah Gloyer 1861? 1862 Disability George Munsell 1861? 1864? 2 Wounded John A. Pease Nov. 8, 1861 1865? 2 John S. O'Riely Charles Ring 1861? 'i862' Disability Sextus Shields 1861? June 17 1865 The History of Wilbraham 253 The 31st Regt. was changed from Infantry to Cavalry in the winter of 1863-4. Mustered Discharged Battles Remarks 37th Mass. Infantry. Capt. Algernon S. Flagg Sept. 2, 1862 1865? 15? Lieut. Jesse Priekett 1861 1865? 15? Sergt. Watson W. Bridge Sept. 2, 1862 1865? Capt. in 54th Mass. Sergt. John H. Brines July — , 1862 Julv 2, 1865 8 Sergt. Timothy D. Smith Sept. 2, 1862 .\pr. 6, 1865 Killed Sergt. Francis Brooks Sept. 2, 1862 Sergt. D wight H. Parsons Sept. 2, 1862 Walter G. Brewer Sept. 2, 1862 Julv 2, 1865 12? Wounded Horatio R. Calkins Sept. 2, 1862 July 2, 1865 Cyrus W. Cross Sept. 2, 1862 Julv 2, 1865 General's orderly Sumner P. Fuller Sept. 2, 1862 Aug. 10, 1864 8? Died in prison George Gray Sept. 2, 1862 Oct. 18, 1864 Wounded John F. Keyes Sept. 2, 1862 1864? 5? Wounded Daniel Knowlton Sept. 2, 1862 Apr. — , 1864 Transferred to Na\'7i- Francis P. Lemon Sept. 2, 1862 July 30, 1864 1 Killed Benjamin F. McCray Sept. 2, 1862 Enos W. Munsell Sept. 2, 1862 1862 Disabilitv Addison H. Mosley Sept. 2, 1862 1862 Died Thomas J. Mills Sept. 2, 1862 1864? Trans. Invalid Corps Jacob Xeff Sept. 2, 1862 Aug. 7, 1865 2 Erasmus B. Pease Sept. 2, 1862 June 3, 1864 8? Killed Joseph A. Parker Jan. 5, 1864 1865? George Pease Sept. 2, 1862 Mar. 29, 1864 Died John C. Rockwood Sept. 2, 1862 1865? 12? Wounded William A. Rice 1 Wounded William Shaw Sept. 2, 1862 1864? Wounded John Speight Sept. 2, 1862 July 2, 1865 James K. Stacy Sept. 2, 1862 Transferred to Navj' Albert 0. Stratton Sept. 2, 1862 Edward Ufford Albert \aughn Albert B. McGregorj- Elbridge G. Vinaca Sept. 2 1862 Trans. Invalid Corps Spencer H. Wood Trans. Invalid Corps 46th ^L\ss. Infantry. Capt. William G. Leonard Sept. 2.5, 1862 Julv 28, 1863 Sergt. William R. Sessions Sept. 25, 1862 July 28, 1863 Prisoner Sergt. Mortimer Pease Sept. 2.5, 1862 July 28, 1863 Prisoner Corp. Charles E. Knight Sept. 25, 1862 July 28, 1863 Corp. David S. Roberts Sept. 25, 1862 Feb. 16, 1863 Disability Corp. Eugene E. Porter Sept. 25, 1862 Julv 28, 1863 Oscar F. Benedict Sept. 25, 1862 July 28, 1863 John D. Burnap Lorenzo Bliss Sept. Sept. 25, 1862 Quartermaster dept. 25, 1862 Juiy'28'l863 Samuel Chapin Sept. 25, 1862 Julv 28, 1863 Edward W. Hitchcock SeDt. 25, 1862 Julv 28, 1863 Alburtus Langdon Sept. 25, 1862 July 28, 1865 Reenlisted Oliver H. Langdon Sept. 25, 1862 Julv 28, 1865 Reenlisted Samuel F. Merrick Sept. 25, 1862 Julv 28, 1863 Lorenzo E. Munsell Sept. 25, 1862 Julv 28, 1863 .Jefferson Rowe Sept 25, 1862 Julv 28, 1863 Alonzo L. Scripter Sept. 25, 1862 Julv 14, 1865 Reenlisted George W. Tupper Sept 25, 1862 Mar. 19, 1863 Disability Howard C. West Sept 25. 1862 ! July 28, 1863 The following men ser\-cd about nine months in the 46th Infantry and then reenHsted in the 2nd Massachusetts Heavy 254 The History of Wilbraham Artillery. The time of their first enlistment and final dis- charge is given. Enlisted Discharged Battles Remarks 46th Mass. Inf.\ntry and 2nd Heavv Artillery. Sergt. Calvin G. Robbins Sspt. 25, 1862 Julv 14, 1865 Corp. Adin Alden Sept. 25, 1862 July 14, 1865 Irving W. Burr Sept. 25, 1862 Aug. — , 1864 Died Marcus H. Chaffee Sept. 25, 1862 July 14. 1865 Nelson D. Crocker Sept. 25, 1862 Julv 16, 1865 Died in hospital Andrew S. Pember Sspt. 25, 1862 JulV 14, 1865 Walter S. Pease Sept. 25, 1862 July 14, 1865 2nd Mass. Heavy Artillery .\lbert Converse July 7, 1863 William P. Calkins July 14, 1863 Dennis Duffee July 14, 1863 Charles D. Jones July 23, 1863 Jan. — , 1864 Merrick Lamphere July 13, 1863 Deserted John Patten July 14, 1863 1 Solyman Walker July 13, 1863 James A. Rice July — , 1863 57th Mass. Infantry. George M. Alden Dec. 14, 1863 Cyrus Ramsdell Jan. — , 1864 Daniel J. Simonds Dec. 8, 1863 May 14, 1864 Other Regiments. Capt. Watson W. Bridge Sspt. 2, 1862 Lieut. Amos Ramsdell Sergt. Luther Wing Feb. 16, 1864 Richard Armstrong Prisoner Orange S. Firmin Peter Higgins Died Chester Loomis Horace L. Mixter Charles F. Tilden Sept. 16, 1861 Prisoner William C. Williams 2 Robert Darrah Edgar A. Stebbins Daniel J. Simonds Dec. 8, 1863 May 14, 1864 George M. Alden Dec. 14, 1863 Franklin G. Patten Jan. 5, 1864 John H. Williams Feb. 20, 1864 George J. Jones Charles D. Jones Thomas Smith 1863? Wounded Horace B. Wood 1863? Emerson G. Brewer 1862? Died Oct. 24, 1864. .\lonzo B. Noble Lysander Howard George Leonard William F. Darroch? Seth Allen Died Total number of Wilbra- ham men in the army 178 Others as substitutes, or hired to fill quota 21 199 In U. S. Navy. Franklin Cobb John Gibbons Nov. 23, 1862 And 27 others hired to fill the town's quota. Total 29 Total number of men furnished 228 The History of Wilbraham 2.55 Of this number, about 15 were counted on the quota of other towns. In July, 1863, fifty-six men were drafted to fill the town's quota, and on May 18th, 1864, and on five other dates twenty- nine others were drafted; making eighty-five in all. Of this number, five went into the army, four sent substitutes, twenty paid what was called "Commutation" of $300 each, thirteen were exempt, being aliens, thirty-nine were exempted for disability, one "Run away," of one it is recorded, "No such man in town," of one other, there is no record; and of the last name on the list it is recorded "Not called for," indicating the dawn of that delightful day when the awful struggle between the states of this great nation would cease, and the Angel of Peace would again dwell in our land. There is a printed "List of persons enrolled in the Town of Wilbraham liable to Military Duty. Class First. Comprising all persons subject to do Military duty between the ages of Twenty and Thirty-five years, and all unmarried persons sub- ject to do Military duty above the age of Thirty-five years and under the age of Forty-five." Then follows the names of 183 persons. But six of them are endorsed as "already in the army," leaving a total of 177. "Class Second. Comprising all Married persons subject to do Military duty above the age of Thirty-five." Then follows a list of the names of 98 persons, but one is endorsed, "already in the army," and one as "over age," leaving 96, which with the 177 of the First Class, makes 273 in both classes. This "List" is signed by "H. M. More- house, Captain and Provost Marshal 10th District Mass. Nov. 25th 1863." There is also a printed list, not dated, called, "New Enroll- ment," as follows: "Names of Men Enrolled in the Town of Wilbraham" which contains the names of 140, subject to military duty. "The Rebellion Records" in the town clerk's office are very incomplete in many details. They show that six Wilbra- ham men were killed in battle, and that twenty-three others died in the service. Probablv there were more. The records 256 The History of Wilbraham give a list of the battles in which a few of the men took part. When the soldiers returned from the war, the town clerk asked some, perhaps all of them, to furnish him such a list. He asked me, and I did so, and they are recorded. But probably many of the others did not, and so there is no record of them. But I think that most of the men in the earlier, three-years regiments, up to and including the 37th, were in many of the great battles of the war. The following song illustrates the spirit of the time. TO COMPANY E 10th Regiment of Massachusetts Volunteers By Mary J. Melvin Air — •" Wait for the Wagon." Now, friends, if you will listen, A few words I'll relate, Concerning our brave Volunteers From Massachusetts state. The subject I shall dwell upon As quickly you will see, Is all about the Orchard Boys, Who belong to Company E. Chorus — Hurrah for Captain Barton, Hurrah for Captain Barton, Hurrah for Captain Barton And the boys of Company E. Their young and noble Captain Frederick Barton is by name. And in the town of Springfield He drilled his brave young men; And there he made them take the oath That they should all agree. To defend our glorious Union Brave boys of Company E. Hurrah for Captain Barton, etc. On Hampden Park he kept them Sixteen weeks or more. And now they are in Washington Their absence we deplore; The History of Wilbraham 257 But still we will not murmur For our Flag it must float Free! And this they will accomplish, The brave boys of Company E. Hurrah for Captain Barton, etc. Although they call them "Barton's Roughs," Still, their Captain likes them well. And tells them when they meet the rebels, "Boys, do your duty well!" And when we find old Beauregard We'll pin him to a tree, And hang Jeff. Davis on a limb Us boys of Company E. Hurrah for Captain Barton, etc. And when we get the Union, We'll shout our loud Hurrahs, To think we have been fighting For the glorious Stripes and Stars; And still we'll be united. And firmly all agree. To return to Indian Orchard, The boys of Company E. Hurrah for Captain Barton, etc. Indian Orchard, Oct. 21, 1861. When the war was ended, and the soldiers who had survived the terrible conflicts had returned to their homes, to resume the occupations which the war had interrupted, Dr. Stebbins Foskit, a physician who had lived his life among us in the noble effort to relieve the ills of men, conceived the idea of erecting a monument which should preserve their memory to future generations. He was not permitted to see his desire erected in enduring granite. But his widow, Mrs. Lucia S. Foskit, who is still with us, in full sympathy with his plan, carried the idea to a successful and appropriate consummation. The monu- ment was dedicated on July 4th, 1894, by E. K. Wilcox Post G. A. R. of Springfield, W. P. Derby Commander, and the address was made by our honored Pastor, Rev. Martin S. Howard ; after which a free collation was served to about three hundred persons in the Congregational Church Chapel. 258 The History of Wilbraham SOLDIERS' MONUMENT The following is the inscription: TO THE MEN OF WILBRAHAM WHO SERVED THEIR COUNTRY IN THE WAR WHICH PRESERVED THE UNION AND DESTROYED SLAVERY. THIS MONUMENT IS ERECTED TO PERPETUATE THE MEMORY OF THEIR PATRIOTIC SERVICE. 1861 1865 ERECTED BY LUCIA STEBBINS IN THE NAME OF HER HUSBAND S. FOSKIT M. D. 1894 The History of Wilbraham 259 The names of all the soldiers, who were residents of Wilbra- ham, so far as could be ascertained, are engraved on the three panels. The monument, above the foundation, cost $2500. The expense of putting in the foundation was paid by the veteran soldiers. The "Crane Park," where the monument stands, was the birthplace and early home of Lucinda Brewer, who married Zenas Crane, the original paper manufacturer of Dalton, in 1809. She was the grandmother of our honored guest, Ex- Governor, and now Ex-Senator, W. Murray Crane, who has graced this occasion with his presence, and we appreciate his kindness. The park where the monument stands is practically the exact center of the town. Within recent years, I have heard the question asked, "Who wrote the inscription on the monument?" As the matter may come up again, I will say, Mrs. Foskit invited several persons to present an inscription for it, and she selected the one that I prepared. It is not copied from, but is something like the one on the Soldiers' Monument on Boston Common. a m The History of Wilbraham 361 THE GREAT WASHOUT ON THE BOSTON AND ALBANY RAILROAD IN OCTOBER, 1869 The following account is copied from the Springfield Repub- lican of October fifth, 1869. "The great storm of the 3rd and 4th of October, 1869, will long be memorable. Beginning before daylight on Sunday, it rained in torrents through that day and night, and not till the middle of Monday afternoon was there any cessation. During much of this time the water fell, as it were in sheets, instead of drops, and a more powerful storm would seem almost impossible. The weather records of the last quarter century have been searched in vain to find its parallel. "The rain gauge of the United States arniory in this city, showed that from 2 o'clock, Sunday morning till 7 o'clock, Monday morning, a period of twenty-nine hours, four inches of water fell, or an amount equal to the average monthly rain fall. In the tremendous rain of Monday morning (from 1 a.m. till 1 p.m.) 3.34 inches more of water came, and about three- quarters of an inch more (.71) before the sun broke through the clouds, shortly after 3 o'clock. Thus the total fall of water during the storm, from Sunday morning till Monday afternoon, reached the extraordinary and wholly unprecedented amount of 8.05 inches. Mr. Weatherhead has kept a record since June 1, 1847, and the greatest quantity of rain in any storm, during that time, was June 12 and 13, 1858 when 4.35 inches fell and the militia encamped on the island opposite the city was drowned out. The average quantity per month for the past 22 years has been about 3.75 inches; thus in 37 hours we received the amount due for two months. "We had no trains at all from Albany yesterday, but trains ran as usual between this city and Boston until noon. The afternoon express train for the east left at a quarter before 2, expecting to make its customary trip to Boston, but was stopped at Wilbraham, where information was given of a bad break in the road, half a mile beyond the depot. A brook, which is usually insignificant, was swollen by the rain to a mighty flood, and throwing off the slight restraint imposed upon it "by the culvert through which it usually flows, tore up the track for a distance of 200 feet, and gullied' out a chasm in some places 50 feet deep. Conductor Whitney accordingly ran his train back to this cit\'. Last c\'cning a construction train with several big 262 The History of Wilbraham head lights for illumination was run out to the break, to see what could be done to fill up the chasm. There are reports of other serious damage to the railroad near Palmer. No through trains were started from Boston, Springfield or Albany after the extent of the damage, east or west had been ascer- tained." Further account given by the Republican Friday October 8th. "The first train for Boston from this city, since Monday morning, left at 2.30, yesterday afternoon, and was composed of thirteen cars, conveying probably not less than 700 passengers. At North Wilbraham, omnibuses were in readiness to transfer the passengers overland beyond the great break, carrying them around about a mile to Butler's crossing. By far the larger part of the passengers, however, preferred to walk, and also to take the worst and nearest way, directly up the track to the great chasm, instead of following the highway. The crossing of the brook, down the steep, shifting side of the embankment across the smaller brook at the bottom, which is almost a river, on single planks and sticks of timber and up the equally steep eastern bank, was successfully accomplished, and with skill worthy Alpine travelers. "Men, women, children, babies and birds, besides innu- merable bags and bundles, were carried safely over, and soon the whole party of hundreds were enjoying and diverting them- selves on the green fields around Butler's. The first hour or two passed very pleasantly in grand picnic fashion, but after sunset the chilly night air made fires indispensable and they were not much sooner needed than provided. The farmer's fences were pressed into the service for the public good, and soon three mighty pyres were blazing, illuminating the heavens and comforting and cheering the weary passengers. "For all this while they were waiting for the arrival of the train which left Boston at 3 p.m., and which was to transport them eastward on its return, and when that long train of four- teen cars and two engines did drive up, at 8 o'clock p.m., perhaps it was'nt received with cheers on cheers ! "There never was a more joyous meeting of strangers; the westward bound passengers were quickly loaded into the omnibuses; the eastward gladly entered the cars; and the parting was no less pleasurable than the meeting. "The work of transferring the baggage to the train for this city occupied over three hours, and it was just 12, midnight, 264 The History of Wilbraham when the first train from Boston since Monday noon arrived in Springfield. "The work on the trestle bridge, spanning the departed embankment, is progressing very rapidly, and trains will probably cross it, today. Connection was made, last night, and foot passengers came over safely. The route thence to Palmer is only passable, and the north track is only used. Beyond Palmer to West Brookfield both tracks are made to do service alternately, neither being entirely sound. The seven freight trains which were stopped by the flood, between Warren and Brimfield, all arrived at Palmer, Wednesday afternoon, and are now waiting a chance to come further west." Additional Reports October 9th. "The reconstructionists who have been building the trestle work at the Wilbraham break, completed the structure, yester- day afternoon at half-past-12 o'clock, sufficiently to permit the passage of trains. An engine and platform were run across to test it, just as Conductor Whitney's train hove in sight from Boston. The train passed over safely, and arrived in this city only about an hour later. Trains are now running both east and west, with few if any delays." IN REGARD TO THE BUSINESS OF THE TOWN The following items from a History of Massachusetts pub- lished in 1839, may be of interest: "Population in 1837, 1,802. "There w^ere 457 Saxony, 1054 merino, and 781 other kinds of sheep. Value of wool produced $3,668.62. "Capital invested $35,460. "Value of boots and shoes manufactured $8,498.75. "Value of straw bonnets and straw braid manufactured $2,000. "Palm leaf hats manufactured 7,145 valued at $1,000.30. "4 churches in the town, 2 Congregational and 2 Methodist. "In 1837 the Academy had upwards of 300 pupils, 190 males, 114 females." Part of the following items are copied from the Stebbins History : "The first woolen mill in Wilbraham was built by Sumner Sessions, in the South Parish, on a mill-stream called Scantic The History of Wilbraham 265 in 1845. It was rented and operations commenced 1)\- Levi Bradford and Eleazer Scripter, in April 1846, with one set of machinery for the manufacture of satinet. In 1847 there was a change in the firm, more machinery added, and increase of power obtained by the purchase of the carding machine privilege on the same stream. The manufacture of satinets, tweeds, cassimeres, and doeskins was carried on by this company until 1856 when a new company was formed with a capital of twenty thousand dollars called 'The South Wilbraham Manufacturing Company.' E. Scripter acted as agent and treasurer until 1860 when William Y. Sessions was appointed in his place. In 1862 a large addition to the mill was built and another set of ma- chinery added. "Below the 'South Wilbraham Co.' the "Ravine Manufac- turing Co." started in 1856 making two thousand yards of doeskins a week. Two factories on Eleven Mile Brook made low grade satinet about three thousand yards a week." All of these mills are now out of commission, and most of the buildings have been destroyed. About 1790, an attempt was made by Capt. Joel Pease to erect a mill about 80 or 100 rods north of the Tinkham road, and about the same distance west of West Street, on Pole Bridge Brook, on the farm formerly owned by Roswell Phelps, and now owned by Mrs. O'Leary, and a dam was constructed; but the country was so flat that the overflow of the pond was very objectionable and the project was given up. In 1764 the town gave Caleb Stebbins of Wil- braham and Joseph Miller of Ludlow a deed of fottr acres of the Ministry lot on Eleven Mile Brook as a site for a grist mill. And in 1803, a carding machine was placed in a building erected l5\- Jonathan Kilbom, on the same brook, near Stebbins Mill. The large amount of wood burned by the early inhabitants gave an overplus of ashes, and William King manufactured potashes in the south village near the old meeting house, and Paul Langdon by the Potash Hill. I have learned from old deeds, that there was a potash works on the north side of the road leading up the mountain from the stone church, probably near the small brook which crosses the road. Thomas and Henry Howard erected a tannery at an early day on the north side of Springfield Street l:)y the brook near the place where 266 The History of Wilbraham Calvin Brewer lived for many years, now owned by George N. Chase. Abraham Avery had one, probably near where Mr. O. L. Millard now lives. THE COLLINS MANUFACTURING COMPANY, at North Wilbraham, was incorporated in 1872 as the Collins Paper Company. The name was changed in 1876, and the capital increased to $300,000. The company, with some changes in stock ownership and business control, has since been in active operation, and its works comprise one of the principal industrial enterprises of eastern Hampden County. The plant now forms a part of the Whiting system of paper interests, and has been the largest factor in the growth and development of the northern part of our town. The grain and milling business now conducted by the CUTLER COMPANY, also at North Wilbraham, was estab- ished at Ashland, Mass., in 1844, by Henry Cutler, where it utilized the water power of the Sudbury River, and was one of the first concerns in New England to grind western com. In 1877 the city of Boston took that river as part of its water supply, and the business was transferred to our town, Mr. Cutler being attracted here by favorable railroad facilities and available water power. The business has grown from year to year, necessitating the building of several storehouses and the addition of new equip- ment. The average daily shipments being about eight carloads of grain and feed. The making of milling machinery is also carried on to a considerable extent, and from the North Wil- braham office of The Cutler Company are managed several retail grain stores in other places in New England. Like the Collins Paper Company, the Cutler Company has contributed much to the growth and prosperity of our town. THE LUDLOW MANUFACTURING ASSOCIATES, lo- cated in Ludlow near the northwest comer of our town, have contributed largely to the growth of the town in that section. A manufactory was first established there about 1815, and on December 31, 1821, was organized as the Springfield Manufac- turing Company, and a stone building was erected at the north 268 The History of Wilbraham end of the bridge, and a little west of the road, on the north side of the Chicopee River. The bridge was formerly called "Put's Bridge," in honor of the builder, Eli Putnam. A grist mill was conducted in the northeast comer of the stone mill, and a sawmill was operated on the south side of the river, in our town, for a good many years. I have taken grain to the grist mill and logs to the sawmill. In 1848 the company failed, and the business was conducted by Wood & Merritt until 1856, when the business was merged into the first Ludlow Manufacturing Company. In developing the village of Lud- low, the directors found that they were acting beyond the powers granted them as a manufacturing corporation. Which was one of the reasons for changing the form of organization to that of The Ludlow Manufacturing Associates. In December, 1891, the company purchased a mill site just above "Red Bridge," and in 1900 commenced work on the present dam at that point. The power is conducted to the mills by electrical transmission. In 1905, a bridge was built across the Chicopee River near "Moran's Crossing," and tracks were laid so as to give the company a direct freight con- nection with the main line of the Boston & Albany Railroad. In recent years, a large number of dwelling houses have been erected in that part of our town, by the company, which, with the plant at Red Bridge, have added much to our valuation, as well as to otir population. In the year 1900, the old covered structure which had done duty at "Red Bridge" since about 1838, was removed, and the present iron bridge was erected. OTHER INDUSTRIES The raising of tobacco was considerable of an industry from about 1850, to about 1880, especially along West Street. And many of the farmers set out from one to five acres, with quite satisfactory results. The crop was usually sold to dealers in Hartford and vicinity, who would come and inspect the crops at, or near stripping The History of Wilbraham 269 time, in the late autumn, and arrange with each grower for the purchase of his crop, to be delivered at the place of business of the dealer. And, at that time of the year, it was no uncommon sight to see two or three two-horse loads of the product, wend- ing their wav in company, towards the place of delivery. I remember to have once gone in such a train, either to Warehouse Point or Windsor Locks. The general color of the tobacco grown here was quite dark, and in time the demand was for a lighter shade, for wrappers for cigars, and as our fields did not produce that shade, the demand gradually fell off, until the production of it entirely ceased. About the year 1866, a cheese factory was erected on the south side of Springfield Street, a few rods east of the first branch of Pole Bridge Brook, where it crosses that street, on land then owned by Edwin B. Brewer, now owned by Mrs. F. A. Guniey. The business was carried on for a few years, furnishing a market for a large amount of milk from the surrounding ter- ritory. But the business was not profitable, and was abandoned after a few years, and the building burned some years later. A cheese factory was also started at North Wilbraham a few years later than the other, with about the same result, as far as the business part was concerned. A building standing on the same site is now occupied by the general store of F. A. Fuller. The upper part of the building was used as a ]3ublic hall until about 1890. After the failure of the cheese manufacturing industry', an increasing amount of milk was furnished to the "Springfield Milk Association" for ten or fifteen years, until about twelve hundred quarts were taken daily, mostly from West Street. The number of cows in town increased from 475 in 1881 to 654 in 1890. vSince then the number has gradually decreased until the town report for the year ending March loth, 1913, shows but 398. Some milk is still furnished to the Springfield market, and the demand from our own villages is sujjplied from local sources. The business of raising sheep, and the i)roduction of wool, 270 The History of Wilbraham has had wide fluctuations. In the year 1771, there were 704 sheep in town; in 1838, 2292; in 1881, 86; in 1891, 7; in 1901, 9; in 1911, 7; and in 1912 none. Some other lines of business show more encouraging results. THE PEACH INDUSTRY The development of the peach industry, in recent years, has been of great benefit to the agricultural interests of our town. The land lying along the western slope of our mountain range seems to be peculiarly adapted to the production of that luscious and beautiful fruit. And now about twenty persons in this town, as well as several in Hampden, have orchards of from several hundred to several thousand trees, and "Wilbraham Peaches" are not only known all over New England, but in other parts of our country, as having the best color and finest flavor of any peaches sent to market, and commission merchants assure our growers that there is no danger of over-production, because the excellence of the fruit wins a place for it in any market. Probably the largest crop produced in any one year, so far, was in 1911, when about thirty or forty thousand baskets were sold. Of course, this amount does not compare with the much larger crops gathered in the states further to the south, but it is a very respectable beginning for our town, which we expect will be increased in the years to come. In that year, 1911, I think Lee W. Rice had the largest crop, amounting to 9,600 baskets. Among the other growers who raised good crops that year may be mentioned, beginning at the south, E. Bliss & Son, James Powers, J. J. Lyons, J. L. Rice, J. W. Rice, C. P. Bolles, C. C. Beebe, D. H. Eaton, M. C. Wade, W. H. McGuire, and others who raised smaller crops. An account of the beginnings of this industry may be of interest today, and will be of especial interest in the future, if the busi- ness is continued. In the year 1876, Albert Bliss and his son Ethelbert, set out one hundred peach trees, on the farm made famous by the tragedy of 1761, and the fourth year afterwards had one good crop of fruit. The land was then seeded to grass with the PEACH I >i;( II \i;ii CLOVER MOWING IN BLOSSOM. And barn of Ethelbert Bliss. 272 The History of Wilbraham result that there was an excellent crop of grass, but the peach trees soon died. About the year 1882, William R. Sessions set out two hun- dred or more peach trees, on his farm, about half a mile south of the farm of Mr. Bliss, and in 1886 had a profitable crop of peaches. In the autumn of that year, he sowed the land with grass seed and the trees soon wasted away. Mr. Ethelbert Bliss was not discouraged, but gave a good deal of thought and study to the subject, and became con- vinced that with proper care the growing of peaches could be made a financial success here in Wilbraham, as well as in some other parts of New England. In the spring of 1894, he set out 1,400 peach trees and in the autumn of 1897 he gathered over 1,000 baskets of choice peaches, and in 1898, 2,500 baskets, and the next year 4,500 baskets. He continued to set out trees until he soon had about twenty-five acres of peach orchards. So the commercial peach industry of Wilbraham dates from the setting out of the 1,400 trees in 1894. Beautiful and well- cared for orchards may now be seen in many parts of our town, and many rocky pastures and neglected fields have become beauty spots, producing a substantial revenue. We hope the good work may be continued. The following table gives the valuation of the Town of Wil- braham, and of some of the manufacturing industries, showing the increase in thirty years. 1881 1891 1901 1911 Increase Wilbraham Collins Paper Co. Cutler Co. Ludlow Mfg. Co. Wilbraham Woolen Co. $700,002 120,350 41,900 6,800 12,600 $758,025 166,400 42,400 19,700 16,500 $795,345 205,410 42,525 33,475 $1,136,659 310,650 49,850 213,725 $436,657 190,300 7,950 206,925 The factory of the Wilbraham Woolen Co. was destroyed May 14th, 1893. The loss to the valuation of the town was $12,500. The History of Wilbraham 273 I find the following items, of interest to us, in a copy of "THE MASvSACHUSETTS IRcQister AND UNITED STATES CALENDAR FOR THE YEAR OF OUR LORD 1814 "RATES OF LETTER POSTAGE Every letter composed of a single sheet of paper, conveyed not above 40 miles, 8 cents; over 40 miles, and not exceeding 90 miles, 10 cents; over 90 miles, and not exceeding 150 miles, 123^ cents; over 150 miles, and not exceeding* 300 miles, 17 cents; over 300 miles, and not exceeding 500 miles, 20 cents; over 500 miles, 25 cents. "Every letter composed of two pieces of paper, double those rates. Every letter composed of three pieces of paper, triple those rates. Every letter composed of four pieces of paper, weighing one ounce, quadruple those rates; and at the rate of four single letters for each ounce any letter or packet may weigh. "Justices of the Peace in Wilbraham in 1814. Abel Bliss, Jr. Robert Sessions. Samuel F. Merrick Augustus Sisson Walter Stebbins. "Churches and Ministers in Wilbraham in 1814. Moses Warren. Cong. Ezra Witter. Cong. Ezekiel Terry. Bapt. "List of Towns on Old Road from Worcester to Hartford, with names of Innkeepers in 1814. Worcester Sikes Palmer Bates Leicester Hobart Wilbraham Caukins Spencer Jencks Springfield Williams Brookfield Draper Suffield Utley Western Blair Windsor Picket (now Warren) Hartford Bennct THE "CLARK" WARNER RECORD I copy a few items from the record kept by Samuel Warner, the precinct "Clark," as he was called. The first entry was 274 The History of Wilbraham made "March y*^ 15^^ 1734;' the last "Aug. 28, 1783." For forty-nine years and five months the faithful "clark" per- formed his labor of love, and twelve days after the last entry, he laid down his pen forever. In all 1131 births and 311 deaths are recorded. "Comfort Warner, the daughter of Daniel and Jerushe Warner was the first child born in the precinct, vear 1734. She Dyed in 1757. No. 240: "Thomas Glover dyed December 30''' 1745, in the 88''' year of his age. a bachilDor, Never was Married. No. 123: "Charles Brewer, the son of Isaac and Mary Brewer, was born Dec. y"" 18"" 1748. The first that was Bap- tized in our meeting hous. No. 25: "Ephriam Bartlit dyed February the 19"^ 1749-50 in the 77"" year of his Eage. He was the first male Child that was bom in Suffield. "July 3^, 1750, there was a thunder storm which struck Moses Burt's house in Springfield and tore the southwest comer almost to pieces, two children lying on a bed on the same comer of the hous Reseved no Damig, his wife at the window, was So niimbed att first she new not what it was — Nor Can she give any account of the Claps only By what she see afterwards. No. 84: "Timothy Mirrick the son of Thomas and Mary Mirrick was bit by a Ratel Snake on August the 7*'', 1761, and died within about two or three ours, he being 22 years, two months and three days old and vary Near the point of marridg. No. 52: "Cap. Coates a soldier sickened and Dved January the 4'h 1762. No. 93: "One tramp as we sopose was found Ded on the road that Leads from Na" Blisses to William King's Soposed to have fit of the appoylex he was found Wensd 16"' Dav of May, 1764. No. 101: "William Simons a hed of a family in this town froas to Death a-going from Daniel Hancock's to his own hous on Saturday, January 19'*' 1765, and lay until Monday Before he was moved. He left a family of ten children with his Wife. September 12"' 1768: "there was one Miss Hannah Bliss Daughter of the Re'nt Mr Daniel Bliss of Concord She Being TlIK IIlSTDUV OF WiLHKAIIAM 275 one a ^ourny to Martford Came to the misfertin of Bein^ Drownded in agawam river So called as she and a younj^ «;enlleman her Loveyeur ware a riding in a Chais a Cross Sd. River. Sweet is love if soon parted. May the P' 1778: "there was the Body of a Man found in the Rivver between Lodlo and Wilbraham and a Jurey of inquest set on it and brought in was some sarpint laid on him was the casion of his Death 1778 — . No. 236: " Marey Dumblcton, an old erase girl dyed January 19"^ 1779. She Being seventy (od) years old. No. 254: " Dea. Nathaniel Warriner Dyed January 10''', 1780. he being in the 77''' year of his age; he gave 400 pounds to the use of the gospil and Schooling." With the record is an Almanac for the year 1748, one hun- dred and sixty-five years ago. Then as now it was sought to brighten the long list of dates, and hours for the rising of the sun and moon, the signs of the zodiac and prognostications of the weather probabilities, by inserting a verse for each month. That for January reads: "Nectorian Cyder now, with Pork and Beef, Gives many an aching Stomach great Relief. And he that hasn't these, nor Money in his Purse, His case is bad, and's likely to be worse." That for July is: "Now wild Ingredients are together cramm'd. And into cloudy Cannons closely ramm'd: At whose dread Roar fierce Balls and Fires are hurl'd, Omens of that that must calcine the World." This was twenty-eight years before the Fourth of July was immortalized b>' the signing of the Declaration of Independence. It would seem that the da\'. or the month, had been obscrx'cd as a time for noisy demonstrations long before the nation's natal day in 177(). The verse for December reads: "The trees to wear their leaf\- halts forbear, In Reverence to old Winter's Silver Hair; 276 The History of Wilbraham From Capricorn's cold tropic Sol looks pale, And Boreas beats the naked Earth with Hail." The last day of the year 1748 closes with this report, and reflection : "Another year now is gone But ah I how little Have we done ! ' ' THE FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH IN WILBRAHAAI ■* Some of the early records of that church, were discovered in an old desk, a few years ago, by Mrs. Warner Chapin of Hamp- den, and were copied by Rev. C. B. Bliss in 1908. I have made a few extracts from the copy, which has been loaned to me. "Aug. 31st. 1767. "These are the record appointed by a certain number of men that was scattered up and down in the world, as sheep without a shepherd. Being something acquainted with each other's mind in matters of the greatest concern, we did appoint this thirty first day of August as a day of conferring upon matters of faith and practice, which was held at Capt. Zachariah Eddy's at Belchertown. After the meeting was opened by prayer, we made choice of brother Matthew Smith to lead the meeting; then chose brother Seth Clark to keep the records for us." They then "conff erred" upon a number of subjects, among which was: "Seventhly, How we shall find a minister of Christ. Answer : We have him described to us in Titus 1: 5-10." "The Articles Of Faith," were agreed upon at a meeting held October 1, 1767, and "The Brotherly Covenant of the Baptist Church in Wilbraham," was adopted March 12^'', 1768, and at that meeting they "agreed that Br. Seth Clark has the gift of teaching, and have invited him to improve, and likewise find that Br. James Eddy has the gift of a Deacon, and have likewise invited him to improve in that place." At the meeting held in "Wilbraham, Aug. 26, 1768," Elder Noah Alden, Elder Joseph Meacham, and Elder Ewings, with delegates, were present, "and they all agreed that we were a The History of Wilbraham 277 church of Christ in the Baptist order in Wilbraham, — and Elder Alden baptized Timothy Burr." Several other meetings are mentioned in the record, and I copy the following. "Wilbraham, June 13, 1770. "At the request of the Baptist church of this place, the fol- lowing elders met in council, for to assist the Baptist church in Wilbraham in setting apart Mr. Seth Clark as pastor over them in the Lord. . . . The churches sent to, and now present are — Gloucester, Elder Windsor. — Bellingham, Elder Noah Alden. — Leicester, Elder Nathaniel Green. — Sturbridge, Elder Ewings. — Montague, (no Elder, but two delegates) — Enfield, Elder Meacham." Each Elder was accompanied by two or three delegates. I have omitted their names to save space, but I am surprised, and pleased, to find the name of my great-great-grandfather, (on my mother's side), Israel Kibby, as a delegate from the church at Enfield. The day of June 13'^*' was taken up with the pre- liminary work connected with the ordination and, "Then adjourned to June 14, 1770, at seven o'clock in the morning." They met again in the morning and continued, and concluded the service of ordination, and the scribe closes the record as follows : ". . . . and the whole conducted with regularity and order. ■Signed in behalf of Council by. Elder Noah Alden, Moderator Elder Ewing, Clark." It seems that many members of the church resided in other towns. The record says: "July 7, 1770. At a conference meeting held at Br. James Eddy's — Brother Clark mentioned the diflftculty of all the church coming down from Granby to this place to the sacra- ment every time; requested the fellow.ship of the church, for him to administer the sacrament occasionally at his house, as he shall see fit. The church gave him fellowship." On December 15, 1770, at a conference held at the request of Noah Clark and his wife, at the house of Brother Ephraim 278 The History of Wilbraham Wright, "then proceeded to look into each others minds as to our present standing, and after a due consideration, agreed to join in worshiping with them occasionally, at the house of Noah Clark, and so far to keep up a free worship . ..." It would seem, from the above, that at first, some of the meetings were held in other places besides Wilbraham. There is one pathetic incident mentioned in the records which I copy. "August 12, 1769. Brother Ephriam Wright being under weak and languishing consumption, requested a day to be set apart for prayer for himself and his family ; the church granted his request. — he appeared before the church with his family, and gave up his children to the church, leaving a charge with them, (Viz. — Ephraim and Lydia)." The names of one hundred and sixty persons are signed to the Covenant. Among them are twelve of the name of Butler, five men and seven women, the first being Joseph Butler. The one hundred and twelfth and one hundred and thirteenth names are. Patience Atchinson and Tabitha Atchinson. Tabitha Atchinson was born in Wilbraham in 1749, daughter of Benoni Atchinson, who li\'ed on the east side of West Street, about one-fourth of a mile north of Springfield Street, nearly opposite where F. A. Bodurtha now lives. Probably, Patience was her sister, born before the famih* moved to Wilbraham. "Tabitha Atchinson own'd y" Cov'," in the First church in Wilbraham, "Dec. 13'^ 1767." It seems strange that she should have gone so far from her home, to join another church. Perhaps a case of discipline, in which she was concerned in 1767, may have had something to do with the change. The Stebbins History says that the Baptists erected a meeting house in 1779. It was located some fifty to one hundred rods northwest of the cemetery at East Wilbraham, and for a time the Society prospered. "From 228 members, reported in 1802, the church diminished so that in 1807 it is reported to have "lost its visibility." The meeting house was destroyed by fire in 1833. Some of the foundation stones are still in existence. The starting of the Baptist church at "Colton Hollow" in 1794, The History of Wilbraham 279 an account of which is given on another page, probably had much to do with the decline of this, The First Baptist Church in Wilbraham. THE GLENDALE M. E. CHURCH After the removal of the Baptist church at Colton Hollow, to South Wilbraham, in 1854, there was no stated place for religious services in that portion of our town, now called Glen- dale, but such services were held quite regularly in several private houses and the schoolhouse. It is said that a colored man, Rev. J. N. Mars, who had been a slave, preached there for some time about 1850. Soon after that time a Methodist class was formed by Rev. Z. A. Mudge, who was pastor of the M. E. Church at the "Centre" in 1851-'52. Lorenzo Kibbe, who lived on the east side of our Main Street, where Mr. J. A. Calkins lives now, (the Noah Alvord place) was appointed leader of the class, which numbered twenty-nine at first. Mr. Kibbe was a very large, portly man, full of enthusiasm and religious zeal, very fond of singing and with a voice like a trumpet. He walked from his home, to attend the meetings at Glen dale in the evenings, and when the services were concluded, walked home again. And, on his homeward journey, after having climbed the eastern slope of the mountain and commenced the descent on the western side, he would break forth into song, and the sound of his voice rolled far down the mountain side and could be heard for quite a distance along our Main Street. I have heard it many times in the late evening, when I was returning to my home from some gathering in the village, along about the years 1853 to '58. Mr. Kibbe finished his work as leader of the class in 1867. From a record kept by Mr. Kibbe, I quote the following: "About the month of July, following the organization of this Class, as many of its members had not enjoyed the rite of baptism, and as there was a difference in the minds of the sub- jects, as to the manner in which it should be administered, it was agreed to procure the services of both a Methodist and a 280 The History of Wilbraham Baptist minister. Accordingly Dr. Miner Raymond and Elder Pratt were engaged. — the preaching services were held in a grove, east of the school house. Dr. Raymond preaching in the forenoon and Elder Pratt in the afternoon, after which the baptism took place. Dr. Raymond baptizing one, and then Elder Pratt one, until all were baptized." The place of baptism was the brook, or pond, northwest of the house of A. M. Seaver, then owned by Jason Stebbins, and the pond has since been used for the same purpose. Rev. WJy. / Fi ^"^■■B^Fvn Til'lr!lI'*r3aS ,-\."" -CI J ' ^ i-ij^^, ygfcai^j^iijPltlHB ^By»^BH||Mg\a||.^ THE GLENDALE M. E. CHURCH. Showing Soldiers' Boulder and Cemetery on the left. Mr. Haskell was assigned as pastor to this people in 1867, and it was at his suggestion that the locality was called Glendale. In 1868, a meeting house was erected at a cost of about $2,000, above the foundation, which was put in by the members of the society. The site selected, was on land of Chauncey Bishop, which was fon-nerly part of the farm of Deuty Partridge, and his house must have been near where the church now is. The The History of Wilbraham 281 location is also near the north side of the "over-plus" land of the second division. The society was incorporated under the name of the Glendale M. E. Church in 1869. Rev. Edward Cooke, D.D., Principal of Wesleyan Academy 1864-74, attended to supplying the pulpit for some time, sending students to preach when unable to come himself. Alany of the students who preached their first sermon in Glendale have since filled prominent places in the New England Conference and elsewhere. At least two have been Presiding Elders, George Whitaker and John Galbraith. The people, realizing that those young men, who came, "Over the Mountain to preach to the heathen," must have a place to begin somewhere, were kindly disposed towards them, and testify that, wnth their enthusiasm and zeal, they did much good in the community. For a number of years the pastor who has supplied the pulpit has also had another charge, either in Wilbraham centre or at Hampden. The present pastor is Rew H. G. Alle\-, who was pastor there for three years, more than twenty years ago. A Sunday school was organized about the same time as the church, and a library was gathered, with some assistance from Roderick Burt, who was a Wilbraham man, and a bookseller. Until the meeting house was built, the books were kept in a cupboard in the old red schoolhouse, and were afterwards transferred to a bookcase which was pre- sented to the church for that ]Jurpose. THE GRACE UNION CHURCH AT NORTH WILBRAHAM Previous to about 1874, religious services were held occa- sionally at private houses. Many of the residents attended preaching services at the Congregational Church in the Centre village. A "buss," or stage, ran regularly every Sunday for a few years, to carry the worshipers who did not have teams of their own. In 1874, as the population of the neighborhood increased, services were held in Libcrt\- Hall, over the old 282 The History of Wilbraham cheese factory, where the store of F. A. Fuller now is, on Sunday afternoons. Rev. Martin S. Howard, pastor of the Congregational Church at the Centre, conducted the services most of the time. A Sundav school was organized about the GRACE I-NION CHURCH. same time. In 1876, those who worshiped in the hall formed the Grace Chapel Society of Collins Depot, and the erection of the present meeting house was commenced. The land on which the building stands was given to the society by Warren The History of Wilbraham 283 Collins, who was the first station agent and first postmaster at North Wilbraham (then called Collins Depot). The Chapel was dedicated March 11th, 1877, with sermon by Rev. M. S. Howard, who was assisted in the other services by Rev. J. F. McDuffie of Ludlow. Previous to about 1878 the services were held quite late in the afternoon, as Mr. Howard preached in the forenoon and afternoon at the church in the Centre village. But, beginning with the year 1878, arrange- ments were made, so that the afternoon services at the centre, were transfered to the church at North Wilbraham, and the Grace Chapel Society contributed $300 annually towards Mr. Howard's salary, he serving both churches. This arrangement was continued for eight years, or until the year 1886, when Grace Union Church was organized. It was started as a union church with 48 members, representing Congregational, Method- ist, Baptist and other Christian denominations. In these last twenty-seven years of its history it has been a power for good in the community, and has received into its fellowship one- hundred and seventy-two members. Of the original members, eighteen are still living and eleven of them are residents of Wilbraham. The membership of the church at the present time is ninety-three. THE METHODIST SOCIETY AT NORTH-EAST WILBRAHAM Previous to 1881, a Methodist church society was organized in that neighborhood, and a meeting house erected and services held in it for a number of years until about 1893, when the building was converted into a dwelling house and is now o\\-ned by Mrs. Inez Perry. THE CHRISTIAN UNION SOCIETY AT NORTH-EAST WILBRAHAM After the decline of the first Baptist Church, I have not learned that any house of worship was erected in that localit}' for some vears. 284 The History of Wilbraham Probably religious services were held in private houses occasionally. On April 18, 1868, the present society was formed and the present meeting house was erected in that year. The land on which it stands was given to the society by Col. Benjamin Butler, and James K. Butler, a son of Colonel Butler, has been clerk of the society for many years. The services have been THE CHRISTIAN UNION CHURCH. conducted by ministers of different denominations, including those of the Advent faith, and in recent years, for part of the time, by the pastor of Grace Church at North Wilbraham. THE CHURCH OF SAINT CECILIA AT NORTH WILBRAHAM A society of the Catholic faith was gathered at North Wil- braham, and services were held in the Liberty Hall, until 1890, when the present church edifice was erected. Services have been conducted regularly since that time by Rev. William Hart, pastor of the church at Palmer. The History of Wilbraham 285 CHURCH OF SAINT CECILIA. THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS The establishment and maintenance of pubUc schools, has always been a matter of deep interest to the people of our town. As early as 1737 the Town of Springfield "Granted to the Inhabitants at the Mountains on the East Side of the Great River for supporting Schooling there three pounds and to be paid as it becomes due to Nathan' Warriner." This appropriation was increased from year to year until 1749, when it was £ 35. But the apparent increase was proba- bly due to a depreciation in the paper money, which was then at about seventy-five per cent discount. For, in 1750, the amount appropriated was £4. 13s. 4d. "Lawful Money," (or coin). This amount was increased in 1755 to £6-16-7-1. On November 8, 1752, Springfield "Voted that Mr. Jacob White Mr. Nath" Burt & L*^ Samuel Mirick be a Com^*^ to Examine the Circumstances of the Inhabitants of the Mountain Parish with Respect to the Towns Granting them a sum of money 286 The History of Wilbraham towards Defraying the Charge of building the School House already built in said Parish & make Report to this meeting." On November 25, 1754, there is "Granted the sum of £6. To be paid to Ens" James Warriner For and Towards the Charge of Building the school House lately built at the Mountain Parish so Called and to be by him repaid to the Several persons who were at the Expense of building the same." So it seems our first schoolhouse was built previous to 1752. It stood on the west side of our Main Street, about opposite the present Congregational Meeting House. After the town was incorporated they voted, on December 1, 1763, "£15. for the support of Schooling." In 1775, the town was divided into ten districts and about one hundred and twenty-six dollars was raised for the support of schools. There were but two schoolhouses in town at that time, the one opposite the Congregational Church, already mentioned, and one on the "middle," or Ridge Road, about where the school- house of District No. 5 now is. The schools were mostly kept in rooms in private houses. The teachers "boarded round," remaining at each house where there were scholars from three to twelve days. In the Wilbraham History, Dr. Stebbins says: "This system was continued down to a recent period, — into my own days of school-teaching, and perhaps since. It was a great occasion, for the children especially, to have the school- master come to their house to board. The goodies were to be arranged in tempting richness and abundance upon the table. "With what bewitching grace of mingled fear and delight would the little girl, her face all rosy with modesty, her eye sparkling with expectation, stammeringly, half-curtesying, half-hesitating, announce to you the thrilling news that all things were now ready, and that 'mother wants you to come and board to our house next week.' And when you gave the welcome reply, ' I shall be happy to go,' how lightly and jocundly .she bounded away to announce the news to the envious group of her companions ! "From that night on, what a stir was under that roof! The candlesticks are scoured, the andirons put in order; the best bed, which had not been occupied for half a year, perchance, The History of Wilbraham 287 overhauled; the best knives and forks taken out of their quiet resting-place and polished; the baby's dresses looked after and ironed out; in short, there was a universal brushing up and smoothing down of the whole premises. Especially did Jemima experiment on the possibility of an unaccustomed curl or crimy) in her auburn hair. And when the time came for the master to make one of the household, how many benedictions did he pro- nounce on the extra rye-and-indian bread; the luscious spare- rib; the smoking cakes; and above all on the sweet, darling baby ! And with what earnest importunity did the proud mother insist upon his taking one more piece of the cake redolent of the molasses coating, and making refusal impossible by insinuat- ingly announcing that Jemima made it! Ah, those were halcyon days,— the elysium of schoolmasters!" They were good days for the children too. It brought them into a closer and more intimate relation with the teacher and did them good. I can speak from experience, for I remember when the school teacher boarded, for a week or more, in my own home. In 1791 the town appropriated £100, to be divided among the school districts in proportion to the money they paid into the treasury, to assist in the erection of school houses. This appropriation was continued for three years. In order to give better opportunities to those who were aspiring for more instruction, the town appropriated, in 1792- '93, £12 each year, "to the vSchool District in which lives Samuel F. Merrick, Provided they keep a Gramar School six months from the present time and the Inhabitants of the whole town have Liberty to send schollars to said School, said School to be under the direction of the selectmen." The town furthermore voted ' ' that the scholars of such parents as did not furnish one quarter of a cord of wood cut fit for the fire before the first of January, should not be taught at school, and if any teacher violated the rule no order should be given for wages." Dr. Stebbins further says: "Our schools have been constantly improving. A geography with an atlas was introduced as early as 1820. Dabol super- seded Pike; and Smith, Dabol. It is onlv in verv recent times 288 The History of Wilbraham that boys generally have been rash enough or bold enough to study grammar and geography, or girls hardy and courageous enough to study arithmetic. I remember the first boy who was presumptuous enough to venture on fractions. ... I believe I was myself the first person who taught Colburn's Intellectual Arithmetic in town; it was in 1828. Gradual improvement has marked them from the beginning. . . . Posterity will be more grateful for nothing you leave them than for good public schools." Besides the public schools, there were men in town who taught private schools, where better instruction was given. Rev. Mr. Witter had such a school. He lived on the west side of our main street, just south of the lane that leads off to the west, directly opposite Federal Lane, where Mrs. Thompson now lives. Mr. Witter was pastor here from 1797 to 1814. Rev. Ebenezer Brown taught a grammar school. He was the minister here from 1818 to 1827. In the Glendale, or Colton Hollow district, Elder Alvin Bennett had private scholars, and sometimes taught a public school. Rev. Mr. Warren, of the South Parish, had private scholars until his death. He was pastor there from 1788 until 1829. "By these means, the children of the town," in those early days, "were enabled to obtain a very respectable education without leaving its limits." On November 8, 1825, the Wesley an Academy, now known as Wilbraham Academy, was opened for the reception of students, and has furnished an excellent opportunity, for such of our children as desired a higher education than could be obtained in the public schools. Probably we do not half realize the great benefit the Academy has been to our town, in many ways. The closing of the Academy as a co-educational school in June, 1911, was a distinct loss to many of our young people. But the opening of the Academy under its new name of Wil- braham Academy, in 1912, restored to the boys the opportuni- ties of a high school education near their own homes, and we have every reason for wishing this institution a prosperous future. The History of Wilbraham 289 In the conducting of the business matters of our public schools, previous to 1875, the "vSchool District" s\^stem ]jre- vailed. The voters in each district held an annual meeting and elected a Prudential Committee, who had charge of the selection of teachers and all other matters in connection with the carrying on of the work. The bills which they presented, after being approved by the town school committee, were paid by the town. If a new schoolhouse was built in any district, the expense was met by a tax assessed on the residents and property in that particular district. The district system was abolished in 1875, the town purchasing the property of the twelve school districts, at the appraised value of $16,531. The tax rate that year was $28 on $1,000. But of the $27,979 raised, $16,547 was remitted to the taxpayers of the several school districts. In 1872, draw- ing was first taught in the public schools. The school com- mittee, in their report to the town for that year, say, "What a revolution ! instead of a child being punished for acting out his nature in drawing pictures in school, as 'in days of auld lang sync,' he is now commanded to do it." And they also say, that in accordance with the law, "we have introduced Bartholomew's Drawing Cards, during the winter term." The instruction in drawing was given by the teachers in the different schools until 1896, when the town made an appropria- tion for that purpose of $100, and also an appropriation of $150, for the teaching of music, and a special teacher was employed in each branch, who gave instruction in all the schools, which practice has been continued to the present time. In 1892, the people in the several districts, acting with the school children, procured flags for every school building. As the children care for these flags and raise them o^'er their buildings, they will be reminded of the great achievements which have been made in our country, and we trust they will be an inspiration to them, to do well their part, as they enter into the larger life which increase of years brings to us all. In 1893, the town began to pay the tuition of the high school pupils 290 The History of Wilbraham at the Wesleyan Academy, twelve attending in the fall term, and fifteen in the winter. In the same year, Miss Mary L. Poland began her long service as superintendent of schools, in a district consisting of the towns of Ludlow, Longmeadow, Hampden and Wilbraham, giving to the schools of each town the benefit of skilled supervision, and her work has proved generally successful and satisfactory. Since the closing of the Academy as a co-educational school, the girls of our town, who desire a high school education, find it necessary to attend the high schools in Springfield, Palmer or Ludlow, as most con- venient for them, and some of our boys are attending the schools in those places. During the past year, twenty-six have attended the schools in those towns, and five have attended the Wilbra- ham Academy. The total expense for high school and academy tuition for the past year has been $2,468.50. About one-half of this expense will be refunded by the state. The following table shows the amiounts appropriated by the town for school purposes, the amounts expended, and the num- ber of scholars for the vears mentioned. Town Report Appropriated Expended Number of for Year Scholars 1883 S2.075.00 82,415.00 234 1893 2,750.00 3.943.00 240 1903 4,350.00 6.705.00 241 1913 6,970.00 11,271.00 252 It will be understood that there are some sources of revenue for school expenses, in addition to the amount appropriated by the town. In the historical address, delivered here in 1831, by Dr. Samuel F. Merrick, after speaking of the small amounts allowed by Springfield for schooling in the Mountain Parish, previous to 1763, he says, substantially, "Those insignificant sums, do not compare with the seven hundred and fifty dollars we are spend- ing this year for schools." And Dr. Stebbins said in his cen- tennial address, "Never, probably, were the public schools in better condition than today. Gradual improvement has marked The History of Wilbraham them from the bej^nnning. There is yet, however, abundant room for improvement, and you will make it. This year 3^ou pay seventeen hundred and forty-two dollars for the support of your schools, in the midst of a terrible civil war, while only twenty years ago, in 1840, in a time of profound peace you ]3aid not half as much — only eight hundred dollars. Onward! the path grows brighter and brighter." It is interesting and of value, to recall these items from the past, and compare them with conditions as they exist at the present time, and feel assured that we have made some progress, and that the path towards a higher education for our children, has grown "brighter and brighter." I copy another message that comes from the past. In an account book, kept by one of our school teachers, of her receipts and expenses, while teaching school in another town in 1834, I find that she received $150 for the year's salary. After deduct- ing the amount she paid for board and other expenses, she writes, "Settled with Mr. Smith my whole account being $49.85. I have now after paying Mr. Smith and the money also I paid for necessary expenses $52.26, but $81.40 is what" I should have had now\ if I had not expended any." In 1881, a law was enacted by the legislature, giving women the right to vote for members of the school committee upon the payment of a poll tax. Mrs. S. F. White has the honor of being the first woman to be elected a member of the school committee in our town. She served for the years 1890 and 1891. Miss Evanore O. Beebe was elected a member of the com- mittee in 1905, and has served continually since that time. ON JUNE 14TH 1912 The Graduating Exercises of the Grammar Schools WERE held in the Ac.ademy Fisk Hall In anticipation of the approaching anniversary of the incor- poration of the town, the school committee, assisted by the district superintendent, prepared an interesting historical — s aj> ■- .^ fi -^" ~ — ^2J§Q D M >>(!, ■J ^ fc; o c ^ K o 2 o o ^ - — i o t^ J ^ — ' *, «^ ^ j^" ^'O .2 U- >, - u c ^ ^ :;^ n tf z c 7* >> > B <5 s a ^ o O a — M ?i T ■.-:■ -i a 3 z - ^ a ■r o c3 Ill 294 The History of Wilbraham exercise for the occasion. Scenes from the ancient life of the town were presented by the great-great -great -grandchildren of those early settlers. Clad in "y^ ancient garb," there appeared representatives of the "Worthy and Rev'^ Noah Mirick," "Good Deacon Warriner," "Faithful Teacher Mary Newell," and others who have won our esteem and affection because of the work they wrought here in those days of long ago. The following is a copy of the PROGRAMME Song: "Battle Hymn of the Republic," Oldtime School. Miss Mary Newell, Teacher. CLASS IN ANCIENT HISTORY OF WILBRAHAM Song: "The Landing of the Pilgrims." History of the Middle Ages of Wilbraham. Part L 1636-1741. Part 2. 1741-1763. Hymn. Choir Leader, Deacon Warriner. Volume II. Part II. 1741-1763. Song: "On Springfield Mountain." Volume III. 1763-1787. Song : ' ' Shays's Rebellion. ' ' Volume IV. Part I. 1787-1863. Song: "Marcus Lyon." Volume IV. Part 11. 1787-1863. Poem: "Of Wilbraham." 1 Jennie Poem: "A Song of the Mountain" > Tupper J Dowe Valedictory. From Address of Rev. Rufus P. Stebbins. "Portuguese Hymn." A warding of Diplomas. "The Star-Spangled Banner." Salute. THE SOUTH WILBRAHAM ACADEMY About 1850 an Academy was started at South Wilbraham, with George Brooks as first principal. With some interruptions the school was continued for thirty or forty years, having at times forty or more students, but was discontinued several years ago, and the building is now the Town House. The History of Wilbraham 295 REPRESENTATIVES FROM WILBRAHAM TO THE GENERAL COURT AT BOSTON The following is a list of the Representatives sent to the General Court from 1786 up to the present time. From 1763 till the Revolutionary War, the town voted with Springfield for Representatives : — 1786-88, Phineas Stebbins. 1833, Stephen Stebbins. 1789-92, None. 1834, Abraham Avery and 1793-94, John Bliss. Stephen Stebbins 1795, None. 1835, Walter Stebbins and 1796-1803, John Bliss. Wm. Knight. 1804, None. 1836, Walter Stebbins and 1805, Phineas Stebbins Wm. Knight. 1806, None. 1837, Walter Stebbins and 1807, Wm. Ringe and Wm. Wood. Solomon Wright. 1838, Jesse W. Rice, M. D. and 1808, None. Wm. V. Sessions. 1809, William Ringe and 1839, Stephen Stebbins. Augustus Sisson. 1840, John Newell 1810, Augustus Sisson and 1841, Marcus Cady, M. D. Walter Stebbins. 1842, John Carpenter. 1811, Walter Stebbins and 1843, Samuel Beebe. Abel Bliss, Jr. 1844, Voted not to send. 1812, None. 1845, No choice. 1813, William Clark and 1846, Voted not to send. Joseph Lathrop. 1847, John Smith. 1814-15, Robert Sessions and 1848, None elected. Joseph Lathrop. 1849, No choice; two meetings for 1816, Robert Sessions and the purpose. Moses Burt. 1850, Roderick S. Merrick, 1817, Robert Sessions and second meeting. William Wood. 1851, S. C. Spehnan. 1818-19, None. 1852, No choice. 1820, Abel Bliss. 1853, Philip P. Potter. 1821-23, None 1854, John W. Langdon. 1824, Abel Bliss. 1855, John Baldwin. 1825, Voted not to send. 1856, John B. Morris. 1826, Abel Bliss and 1857, Roderick Burt, Dist. No. 3. Dudley B. Post. 1858, Rep. from Longmeadow, 1827, Abel Bliss and Dist. No. 3. Robert Sessions. 1859, Wm. P. Spelman, Dist. No. 3. 1828, Luther Brewer. 1860, Rep. from Longmeadow, " 1829, Luther Brewer and 1861, Joseph xMcGregon,% Jacob B. Merrick. 1862, Rep. from Longmeadow, " 1830, William S. Burt and 1863, Walter Hitchcock, Jacob B. Merrick 1866, John M. Merrick 1831, Moses Burt and 1868, William R. Sessions, Wm. S. Burt. 1870, Ira G. Potter 1832, Abraham Avery and 1872, Ephraim Allen, Wm. S. Burt. 1874, Francis E. Clark 296 The History of Wilbraham 1877. Horace M. Sessions. 1881, Chauncey E. Peck. 1885, Moses H. Warren. 1888, Henrv Clark. 1892, Sumner Smith 1894, Jason Butler 1900, Charles C. Beebe. 1909, E. W. Wall, died. Clarence P. Bolles. It appears, that from about the year 1800 to 1839, the town of Wilbraham was entitled to send two representatives to the legislature each year; from 1839 to 1857, one each year; from 1857 to 1877, one every other year. Since 1877, the opportunity to send a representative has been gradually diminishing until the present time, when we are permitted to nominate a candi- date only once in about ten years. Previous to 1866, the year in which the representatives were elected is given. Beginning with 1866, the year in which they served is given. TOWN CLERKS OF WILBRAHAM 1741-55, David Merrick, Prec't Clerk. 1756-63, Isaac Brewer, Prec't Clerk. 1763-73, Ezra Barker. 1773-78, James Warriner. 1779-80, Noah Warriner. 1781-85, James Warriner. 1785-86, Pliny Merrick. 1786-90, Samuel F. Merrick. 1791-92, John Buckland. 1793, Daniel Dana. 1793-1805, Robert Sessions. 1805-10, Philip Morgan. 1810-11, Augustus Sisson. 1811-12, Abel Bliss. 1812-14, Philip Morgan. 1814-20, Moses Burt. 1820-24, Calvin Stebbins. 1824-25, Luther Brewer. 1826, WiUiam Wood. 1827, Luther Brewer. 1828, John McCray. 1829-36, Sylvanus Stebbins. 1837-38, Luther Brewer. 1839, Luther B. Bliss. 1840-41, John M. Merrick. 1842, John McCray. 1846-47, Roderick S. Merrick. 1848-49, Soloman C. Spelman. 1850, Jesse W. Rice. 1851-52, Luther B. Bliss. 1853-54 Horace M. Sessions. 1855, Roderick Burt. 1856, Ralph Glover. 1857-58, William P. Spelman. 1859-60, H. Bridgman Brewer. 1861, Howard Staunton. 1862, James vStaunton. 1863-4, John M. Merrick. 1865-6, Gilbert Rockwood. 1867-8, Francis E. Clark. 1869-70, Sullivan U. Staunton. 1871, Robert R. Wright, Jr. 1872, Chauncev E. Peck. 1873-4, William P. Spellman. 1875-9, Erasmus B. Gates. 1880-5, Charles E. Stacy. 1886-9, W. E. Stone. 1890, Henrv Cutler. 1891-7, Charles E. Stacy. 1898-1902, Frank A. Fuller. 1903-8, Edwin W. Wall. 1909-, Wm. H. McGuire, Jr. The History of ^YILBRAHAM 297 LIST OF PHYSICIANS [ohn Stearns. Daniel Ufford. Gordon Percival. Edwin McCray. Samuel F. Merrick. Marcus Cady. Judah Bliss. Abial Bottom. Abiah Southworth. ' Stebbms Foskit. Converse Butler. James M. Foster. Luther Brewer. Horace G. Webber. Jacob Lvman. W. H. Bliss. Elisha Ladd. A. O. Squier. Gideon Kibbe. Arthur L. Damon Jesse W. Rice. George T. Ballard. John Goodale, DIVISION OF THE TOWN And now we come to the parting of the ways. In ordinary life, about half the population of the world are privileged to change their names at least once, and a great majority of such persons accept that privilege, and seem to enjoy the experience. And so it came about in the history of our town, that the south part wished to change its name. It was nothing new. In 1766, and again in 1768, there was an article in the warrant for the town meeting as follows: "To see if the Town will give Liberty to the Inhabitants of the South part of Wilbraham that they have Two Months Preaching in the winter season upon their own Cost." The article "was passed in the negative." But those who desired a change were not discouraged, and the question came up again and again. In 1772, a petition was presented, and as it gives some light on the conditions which then existed I insert it. Tuly 20th 1772 Petition by Asa Chaffee and in behalf of others. Presented to the town to set off the south part of the town as a town by itself says (very much condensed) "We have 47 families m the part asked for and 20 young men— exclusive of Wales as it is called which borders upon us— tis not any dissatisfaction with our Rev. Pastor or offense taken with y^ C^h— our distance from meeting is so great, y^ season a great part of y^ year difficult, and we so unable to keep Horses & •Furniture that it is trulv y<= case that far y^ greater part of our Families are obliged to stav at home.— and well knowing what a tendency staying from Public W^orship has to indispose people therto— tis a continual great to us. that so many in our families are obliged to stay at home on Sabbath days." 298 The History of Wilbraham This petition brought an article into the warrant as follows: "Art. 3*^, To see if the Town will vote ofif the South end of the Town as far north as the south side of Othinel Hitchcocks lot (on the west to Middle Road, then on north side of Abel Kings lot to Monson) to be a Town by ourselves." The town clerk adds, "an unintelligible article." No action was taken on it. The division of the town into two parishes in 1782, relieved the situation for a time. In 1840, there was an Article, "9'^ To see if the Town will vote to divide the Town on the line of the parishes in case they do not build a Town House." "Voted not to divide the Town." But at last, after more than a hun- dred years from the time when a division of the town was first presented, on November 6th, 1877, the town again voted on the question. The vote was taken by roll-call, and was at a town meeting held in South Wilbraham. Out of 203 votes cast, only 19 voted against division. On March 28, 1878, the Legislature passed an Act incorporating the present town of Hampden. Good-bye, old friends. There was many a wordy battle between the two sections at different town meetings, but, considering the nature of man, and all the conditions which surrounded us, we worked fairly well together in those by-gone days. At the town meeting held April 1st, 1878, three days after the passing of the Act, "The new town of Hampden was invited to participate in the meeting in all but voting for town officers." Showing that harmony and good-will prevailed between the two sections. The same feeling of good-will has continued through all the years since then. THE MEMORIAL TOWN HALL I have no desire to revive, or to keep alive, any of the feeling which existed in different sections of the town on this subject, some twenty-five or more years ago. But I feel that a brief statement of some of the facts should be made, as part of our town history. The question of building a Town Hall had been considered by the voters for many years. I have found articles in the warrant for town meetings in 1838, 1840 and 1844 relating to that The History of Wilbraham 290 matter. The article in the warrant calling the meeting in 1840 reads : "To see if the Town will vote to locate the Town House, if they agree to build one, on the Green so called near the house of John Adams." At the April meeting in 1885, the following article was in the warrant : "Art. 16, To see if the Town will vote to erect a monument to the memory of the men of Wilbraham who died for their country in the war for the preservation of the Union, and make all necessary appropriations, and choose a committee to carry the same into effect." A committee of five was chosen to consider the matter and to report at a later meeting. About a month later the committee reported in favor of building a Memorial Town Hall, and that it be located on the lot where the Soldiers' Monument now is, which is very near the exact centre of the town. The town accepted the report, voted to build and chose a committee of five to proceed with the work. At that time the lot was owned by James B. Crane of Dalton, whose mother was daughter of Gains Brewer, who had lived on the lot for many years and until his death in 1843, when the place was occupied by his son John, until his death in 1860. The committee pur- chased the lot of James B. Crane for $500, his brother, Zenas M. Crane, also of Dalton, paying one-half of the price, as a present to the town. The committee selected a plan for a building and received bids for its erection. But there were some in town who desired a different location, and a petition was presented to the Court, asking for an in- junction to restrain the committee from going on with the work, claiming that the action of the town was illegal. The hearing on the petition delayed matters until about the first of January, 1886, when the Supreme Court declared that the action taken by the town was legal. A meeting of the building committee was held January 21st, 1886, and three bids were received for doing the work: One from Joseph Hayden of Springfield for $10,000; one from the 300 The History of Wilbraham Flvnt Building & Construction Co. of Palmer for $9,060; a bid which I presented was lower than these, and the contract was awarded to me for $8,475. The winter of 1886 was very mild, and the excavation for the walls and basement was soon completed. The walls were to be of red sandstone, rough ashler work, to about four feet above the ground and then of brick. The stone for the foundation was drawn from an abandoned quarry on the west side of West Street, about opposite where Dr. James M. Pease now lives. The stone for the rough ashler work, above the ground, was procured from the quarry at Sixteen Acres. The walls were all completed to four feet above the surface of the ground early in April. At the April town meeting, after a long discussion, the town voted to accept the work that had been done and to go on and complete it. The meeting was continued to about nine o'clock in the evening when, some of the voters having gone home, a motion to reconsider prevailed, and it was voted not to build. Weary with the long strife, those who favored the project gave it up, and we have no town hall yet. A lawsuit was necessary before the contractor received pay for the work he had done, and it was about three years before the matter was settled. The expense to the town was a little more than $3,000. THE ELECTRIC RAILWAY In March, 1870, the first horse-car was run on the street railway in Springfield, and in 1890, part of their system of street railways was equipped with electric motor cars and the use of horse power was discontinued as rapidly as possible and the "trolly" system adopted. The lines were gradually extended and, on September 17th, 1901, the electric cars began running regularly through the north part of our town. Efforts have been made by our citizens to have the line extended along Springfield Street to our centre village, and thence to North Wilbraham to connect with the present line there, but without The History of Wilbraham 301 success so far. The Street Railway and Excise tax received by the town for the year ending February 22nd, 1913, was $4,518.15. THE TELEPHONE A private telephone line was constructed from North Wilbra- ham to our centre village by Dr. S. Foskit and the Wesleyan Academy, and was in use in 1880. About 1884, Dr. H. G. Webber made use of the line. The charge at first was about .$30 per year, but about 1886 the price was raised to $100 per year. The subscribers declined to pay the charge and the telephones were removed. In 1903, the public line was built and was in use about the middle of January, 1904. On the 1st of January, 1914, there were about 106 subscribers on the several lines radiating from the "Collins House" at North Wilbraham, and the welcome tinkle of the "telephone call ' ' is now heard in many of the homes throughout the entire territory of Wilbraham. THE CALIFORNIA ADVENTURERS From about 1849 to about 1855, the excitement caused by the discovery of gold in California spread over the country like wildfire, and thrilled in the hearts of the young men of that time, until they saw visions of great wealth waiting for them on that far shore, if they only had the courage to go and gather it. Here and there, one with the wanderlust more strongly developed, determined to make the attempt, and small com- panies from many communities pledged themselves to go. Public meetings of neighbors were held to wish them Godspeed. A shooting match was held in East Longmeadow, in a field about 75 rods southwest of the Baptist Church, where the adventurers might test their newly acquired rifles. And when the shot of some adventurer rang out, and the signal showed that the bullet had hit the mark, cheers went up and the air thrilled with excitement. 302 The History of Wilbraham A song, "The Golden Lure," was sung and shouted to a rollicking "hurrah, boys" tune. The chorus and several lines of the song have been told me by one of those who used to sing it, and I have reconstructed some of the verses. THE GOLDEN LURE We've heard a tale of a western land, Where gold is found in the river's sand. And all one needs is a spade and pick, To take out chunks as big as a brick. Chorus Heigh, ho! and away we go, To the golden shore of San 'Frisco. Heigh ho ! and away we go. To dig up the gold at Sacramento. We've formed our band and our trip is planned, To journey far to that promised land. For the golden ore is now in store, On the banks of Sacramento's shore. Heigh, ho! — etc. With pick and shovel and iron bar, We'll probe the hills in that land afar; We'll dig all day with all our might. And weary not till the stars are bright. Heigh, ho! — etc. We'll make our beds on the cold wet ground, And when the wolves come a-howling 'round, We'll give them a shot from our rifles true, And we'll bring their pelts back home to you. Heigh, ho! — etc. Oh, soon afar, on that shining shore. We'll turn the sands for the golden ore; We'll work with a will and all our pull. And we'll come back with our pockets full. Heigh, ho! — etc. Among those who heard and heeded the call to that "shining shore," were the following from Wilbraham: James Merrick, Samuel F. Merrick, Pliny K. Merrick, D. Brainard Merrick, Erasmus B. Gates, Myron Brewer, Reuben The History of Wilbraham 303 Jones, Walter Hitchcock, George McGregory, Franklin Steb- bins, Darwin Chaffe, Carson Cone, Charles Hancock, Gilbert Stacy, John Bradway, Otis Lincoln, Joseph Baldwin. Perhaps a few others, whose names I have not learned. I have learned some of the details of the journey there, from my uncle, Horace G. Kibbe, of East Longmeadow, now of Sonora, Cal. Most of them went by way of the Isthmus of Panama. The demand for passage was so great that it was necessary to secure tickets several weeks in advance. The fare for steerage passengers was $200 from New York to San Francisco, which included meals while on shipboard. Most of the men walked across the Isthmus, their baggage being carried on pack mules. They were twelve days on the Atlantic Ocean, three or four days crossing the Isthmus, and were seven days sailing up the Pacific Ocean to San Francisco. Nearly all of those whose names I have given returned to their homes here, after a few years. I heard it told around at the time that S. F. Merrick said that he was "going to show the men of Wilbraham how to build a barn." The stone bam on the west side of our Main Street, some 20 or 40 rods north of the Tinkham Road, is the result of his efforts. It was an ambitious undertaking. Not all of the men who felt the call of the "golden lure," travelled as far as California, in their search for it. About the time of the California excitement, there were persistent rumors in many of our New England towns that some of "Captain Kidd's gold" was buried within their borders. There was a man here who "dreamed," or conceived, or believed, that some of it was hidden on the top of our mountain, in an old cellar hole, a little east of the Ridge road and a little north of the road to Monson. Two or three others became interested in the subject, and for several nights they visited the place and turned the sod, the soil and the sands, in and around that old cellar, in their eager search for the buried gold. During all the digging, not a word must be spoken, for they believed that if their efforts should be successful and the iron case containing the golden treasure should be uncovered, and 304 The History of Wilbraham if at the same time the sound of a human voice should vex the spirits of the midnight air, the object of their quest would glide a hundred or even a thousand feet down into the bowels of the mountain and be lost to them forever. A boy about eight or ten years old learned something of what was going on, and, like many other boys, he wanted to know more about it. So when the men gathered with their picks and shovels near his home, in the late evening, to journey to the abandoned cellar, he fol- lowed on after them, keeping a discreet distance in the rear, and was able to observe their operations. He survived the experience and has related the incident to me. FRATERNAL ORGANIZATIONS A Lodge of the Independent Order of Good Templars, under the name of Freedom's Guide Lodge No. 163, I. O. of G. T. was established here about 1866, and was quite successful as a social organization for a few years, holding meetings in the vestry of the Congregational Church, and doubtless doing some good for the temperance cause. The society went out of exist- ence about 1870. There was also a society of the Sons of Temperance in the centre, and one at North Wilbraham, a little later, but both have ceased holding meetings. And, earlier than these, there was a society of " Know Nothings " here. But we know nothing of what it accomplished, although I think I have a copy of its printed ritual, which I found among the Wm. W. Merrick papers. THE FREE MASONS In 1870, Rev. Edward Cooke, D.D., and eighteen other Masons in Wilbraham, were granted a charter for Newton Lodge, and Brother Cooke was elected the first master. The first meeting of the Masons of Wilbraham to consider the matter of forming a lodge was held at the office of Dr. Stebbins Foskit, October 6, 1870. Other meetings were held there and at the office of Rev. Dr. Cooke, principal of Wesleyan Academy. The first meeting in the present lodge rooms was The History of Wilbraham 305 held January 4, 1871. The charter members were: Rev. Dr. Edward Cooke, Dr. S. Foskit, C. G. Robbins, W. H. Day. J. W. Green, J. S. Morgan, E. Jones, E. B. Newell. W. F. Morgan, L. J. Potter, W. L. Collins, A. Boothby, C. M. Parker, W. M. Green, W. Kent, D. A. Atchinson, H. H. Calkins, and W. F. Eaton. About one-half of the charter members with- drew from Hampden Lodge of Springfield to form Newton Lodge. One night in 1875, there was considerable excitement in Newton Lodge, caused by a fire in the bam of one of the charter members. Dr. Foskit. The bam was near the lodge rooms and the fire threatened to spread to the near-by build- ings. About forty brothers were in the hall at the time and most of them were excused at once, and rendered efficient service in putting out the fire. After they had withdrawn, the lodge was regularly closed in form with only the traditional number present. In 1891, about twenty-seven of the members withdrew to form Brigham Lodge of Ludlow. In 1894, one of the members of Newton Lodge was appointed Grand Lecturer of the Grand Lodge, and served for seventeen years, visiting the lodges throughout the state to instruct them in the ritual. He de- clined a reappointment for the year 1911, because of some historical work he had been selected to do. He is now, (1914) Senior Grand Warden of the Grand Lodge. Newton Lodge has now about 55 members. THE WILBRAHAM GRANGE Patrons of Husbandry was organized in 1888, and for about twelve years held their meetings in the Chapel of the Congregational Church. By the kindness and munificence of Mrs. Lucia S. Foskit, the present commodious and convenient Grange Hall was erected in 1900, and first used in 1901, and has since served as a meeting place for the order, and for many social gatherings. The membership of the Grange is about 80. The ladies of the town have a Study Club, which meets 306 The History of Wilbraham regularly and is interested in questions around the Wide, Wide World. The boys have a serenade "Band," which is sometimes heard where it may not be desired, or welcomed. GRANGE HALL. THE WILBRAHAM FARMERS' CLUB This society was formed under the name of "The Agricul- tural Lyceum of Wilbraham." The first meeting was held in the basement of Fisk Hall on December 22, 1854, and Nelson Mowry was elected chairman and Henry M. Bliss secretary. An address was given by Prof. Oliver Marcy, a teacher at the Academy, and Horace M. vSessions, of South Wilbraham, spoke on the subject of peach growing. In 1861, the name was changed to Wilbraham Farmers' Club, and quite regular meet- ings were held at the homes of different members, and occa- The History of Wilbraham 307 sionally at one of the churches, until about the year 1900. The secretary, Henry M. Bh'ss, was statistical correspondent for the U. S. Department of Agriculture for many years. A YOUNG PEOPLES' LITERARY SOCIETY Was formed in the Centre village about 1870, and gave a drama, or an entertainment of that character, nearly every year, for about twenty-five years. The first was a selection from the poem written by Dr. J. G. Holland, entitled "Bitter Sweet," in 1870. One of the most popular was the "District School," given in 1892, and as the mention of it brings to mind so many familiar names and interesting incidents, I give a copy of the program. Y« STONY HILL DEESTRICT SKULE WILL BE AT Y^ Chapel of Y*^ Congregation Meeting House ON YE MAIN RODE Near Ye AUis Tavern in ye Towne of Wilbraham Y-^ 23^1 Day of March, MDCCCXCII Ye Master of ye Skule House with ye Children of ye Deestrict, will open ye doors and commence to reade and spell their lessons at half past seven by ye Towne Clock. Ye good people of ye big Towne will please get ye chores done earlie and put on ye Meeting Clothes so as not to be late. Ye Young Men and Maidens will want to heare these lessons and see how ye children are getting their Eddication. Ye price to go inne is two Dimes and a half Dime. Parte First. Ye Towne Skule Committee will meete Mr. Jabes Epaphroditus Quacken- bush, and see if he has laming enough to teach Ye Younge Men and ye Maidens of ye Stony Hill Deestrict. Parte Seconde. Ye SchoUares in all ye Deestrict of Stony Hill will liegin to larn their A B C's, also to figger and rite, and get an eddication such as was never seen in the Deestrict skule on Stony Hill. Parte Third. Ye examination of ye skule will be held, showing what larning and eddication will do for our Younge Folke, so that every Farm House in ye 308 The History of Wilbraham deestrict even to ye big Townes of Ludlow, Monson, South Wilbraham and Longmeader will heare of these wonderful things. Ye Skule Committee Squire Isaac Skinnum C. C. Beebe Rev. Abinidab Twistem C. E. Peck Deacon Ichabod Jollyboy A. J. Blanchard Ye Teacher Mr. Jabes Epaphroditus Quackenbush F. E. Clark Ye Schollares Phebe Ann Higgins Mrs. C. M. Pease Peggy Pinchbeck Warriner Mrs. F. W. Green Tirza Mehitable Thorp Mrs. Wm. R. Sessions Lucretia Arcetta Ladybelle Burt Miss E. M. Howard Silence Samantha Langdon Mrs. C. P. Bolles Thankful Deborah Bliss Mrs. F. C. Learned Mehitable Maria Merrick Mrs. W. L. Phelps Prudence Priscilla Patience Jackson Miss Ida L. Bolles Experience Delight SawteUe Mrs. L. B. Smith Betsy Jane Livermore Mrs. D. L. Bosworth Jemima Virginia Piper Miss Clara McKeeman Roxalena Smith Miss M. E. Bliss Phebe Ann Sunlight Mulbury Miss Lillie Phelps Oliver Jedediah Adams Anson Soule Peletiah Abial Glover Ethelbert Bliss Silas Doolittle Phelps Leroy B. Smith Zenas Erastus Brocket Wm. H. Day Obadiah Higgins C. P. Bolles Daniel Hosea Baldwin N. C. Rice Solomon Ichabod Jones Arthur Stebbins Patsie Moriety H. E. Clark George Washington Tarbox Theodore Bottome James Buchanan Jackson Bert Eaton Caleb Spindleshanks Brewer H. A. Day THE WOODLAND DELL CEMETERY This is very pleasantly located, near and east of the Center Village. The grounds now occupied by this association, con- taining ten and a half acres, were first purchased by R. R. Wright, H. Bridgman Brewer and J. M. Merrick, at the cost of eleven hundred dollars. The association was organized under the General Statutes, February 12, 1858. A board of trustees, nine in number, are chosen annually, who have the care of the property. The History of Wilbraham 309 The first burial in these grounds was Mrs. Louisa W. Wright, the wife of R. R. Wright, who died December 26, 1851. The officers are, Chauncey E. Peck, president; Charles N. Mawry, vice-president; Frank A. Gumey, treasurer; Carrie A. Moody, secretary. 184 lots have been sold up to the present time. SLAVERY IN WILBRAHAM From what I can gather from old records and traditions, there were at least five families who owned eight or more slaves in Wilbraham along about the years 1745 to 1780. The "Worthy" Rev. Noah Merrick had three, Mr. David Merrick had one, and Capt. John Shaw had one. There were probably a few more. The slaves of the Rev. Noah Merrick are supposed to have been inherited by his wife, from her father's estate in Haddam, Conn. Dr. Samuel F. Merrick had two, but they may have come to him from the estate of his father (Rev. Noah Merrick.) There is a strange and almost tragic incident in connection with those slaves of Dr. Merrick, which has been told me by members of the family and, while I have clothed the story in language of my own, I have endeavored to give a description of it which will convey a true idea of the incident, and still con- form to the truth, as regards the principal event. The names of Dr. Merrick's slaves were Luke and Luc (Lucy). Luc was a plrrnip, kind-hearted creature, of the good old negro mammy character, and assisted in the household duties. Luke was generally of the same kindly disposition and very valuable as a worker on the farm. But he had a most violent temper, and when crossed in his wishes, or sometimes without any apparent cause, he would fly into a dreadful pas- sion, showing no more reason than a wild beast. In an hour or two the fit would pass off, the sunshine in his heart would assert itself, and he was kindly and genial as usual. When in one of these moods he would throw the chairs or other furniture about the kitchen, sometimes doing considerable 310 The History of Wilbraham damage. If out of doors or at the barn, the farming tools were served in the same manner. When one of these "tant-trums," as Luc called them, came on him, and the men folks were all away, the women of the family would usually manage to coax him out of the house, lock the doors and let Luke wear away his "tant-trum" by throwing himself against the trees or buildings, in an insane fury. On a day when the men folks were all away, perhaps haying in a distant meadow, Luke was sent up to the house to fetch some water. Luc was sweeping out the kitchen and, for the moment, had set a chair in the doorway. Luke sprang at the chair, insane with passion, and flung it far out in the yard, but Luc slammed the door in his face and locked it. All the other doors were quickly locked and Luke drifted away toward the bam, venting his spite upon everything that came in his way. The time for the mid-day meal was approaching and Mrs. Merrick went into the pantry to select the materials. While looking among the shelves, with her back toward the open window, she heard a noise in that direction and turning around, she saw the passion distorted face of Luke at the window, with his hand resting on the shelf within, as if he were about to spring in. Screaming with fright she ran out into the kitchen, where she was comforted by the faithful Luc. Dinner may have been late that day and — perhaps — Luke didn't have any. A baby girl, bom in that family some months later, bore upon her breast the mark of a broad black hand. When the state constitution prohibiting slavery was enacted about the year 1780, it is said that some of those slaves were invited to accompany "Massa" on a visit to Hartford, and were privately sold and invited to go on board a sloop lying at the wharf, to have a good time, and while fiddling and dancing, the sloop dropped into the stream, spread sail, and disappeared down the river. They were never heard of again. Senator Hoar's wife was a descendant of one of the families The History of Wilbbaham 311 which is said to have disposed of their slaves in that way, but they ahvays most emphatically denied that they were sold. The phrase, "Underground Railroad," is rarely heard in these days, and may be meaningless to many persons now. But fifty to one hundred years ago it was carefully whispered around that there were in many towns certain havens of refuge, where the escaped fugitive slave from the Southland, seeking for a home of freedom in far-off Canada, might find a hiding place from the hunters pursuing their human prey across the states. And when the hunters, hot on the trail, had come and passed on, and the shadows of night had fallen over the earth, the shrinking fugitive would be taken in a team, or might be directed to another place, ten to twenty miles away, where he would find shelter and a hiding place from the officers of the law. It was an unlawful thing to do, but then, as now, there pre- vailed in the hearts of men an unwritten law, far above the decrees of courts, or the enactments of legislatures; and it is a well established fact that the fleeing fugitive slaves were sometimes helped in that way. A house in our center village, directly across the street from the one in which I reside, was torn down about 1907, when it was discovered that there were two cellars under it. One of them was quite small, entirely separate from the other and larger one, and entered by a trap door in the pantry. The story quickly spread that the house had been a "station" on the "Underground Railroad." I boarded in that house during the winter and spring of 1871 and 1872, and did not know of that small cellar. The house was owned and occupied by Rev. Mr. Virgin for several years, about 1838, and when the report of the "Station" was being circulated, I wrote to his son, also a clergyman, to learn if the story could be verified, but he answered that he "would neither confirm or deny it," but he knew that in those days, if anyone in want, whether it was a homesick student, seeking for a shelter, in whom there might be the making of a Methodist bishop, or a fugitive sla\'c fleeing from the man 312 The History of Wilbraham hunters, with his face set toward the promised land of freedom, "Mother" Virgin, as she was famiUarly called, would not have turned him empty away. More than one embryo Methodist preacher, presiding elder or bishop, found a motherly, welcoming woman in what was then called the "Virgin Hollow Hotel," and it is quite within the bounds of probability that some hunted fugitive slaves m^y have been hidden there for a time. A severe struggle once took place at Mr. Edward Morris's, where two fugitives had taken refuge. Their masters or hunters came after them, and a fight ensued, in which one escaped to the woods, and the other was taken, bound, and carried away. I have no knowledge that any assistance was ever rendered to the hunter when he sought his human prey. The following, relating to some of those slaves, is copied from the record kept by (Clark) Samuel Warner, 1734-1783. "Meneder (?) a Neegrow girl of the R" Mr. Noah Mirrick'^ Dyed March 20^'^ 1774." "Joseph Coat a Negrow man Dyed Januarey 15'^ 1782." "Joshua Ede (?) Lost a Black Child January y"" 1782." FRAGMENTS GATHERED FROM VARIOUS SOURCES In 1837, Delos D. Merrick of this town attended the Medical School at Pittsfield, Mass. The following is part of a letter written to his brother, William W. Merrick. " Pittsfield Oct. 1837 " Dear Brother Last sabbath I took a walk out to the Lebanon Shakers, having heard much in regard to their late mode of worship, and for the first time was out of New England, it being just over the line in the state of New York, and certainly it is very mountainous as we go west from this towards Albany. The proceedings of the Shakers during their services were truly rediculous. They conducted themselves very much as they do at enfield for nearly one half hour then throwing aside all decency cut all manner of shines that you could imagine. Turning upon their heels until so dizzy that some even fell upon the floor & others would have fallen had not they been so thick as to hit some one as they were falling. One woman turned upon her heel 84 times without stopping & another 100 checking herself for about a minute when she had got 50 turns accom- plished. They would all spat their hands stamp their feet & hallow at the same time. Oh ! what a noise. You imagine 220 making as much noise as possible & you think what we had. They acted precisely like crazy people. The History of Wilbraham 313 One would start from one end of the house and run around in a ring turn- ing her hands about her head & hke lightening go around 5 or 6 times cutting as large circle as the house would allow. Another bending back- wards & forwards as far as possible & not fall. I declare I expected ever}' moment to see them tumble flat. Another would run and take hold of some one and both would wheel about 2 or 3 times and then run to another and perform just so again until he had gone to 10 or 12 & then he would leap up & down & spat his hands. They had one girl probably just joined them, I was pleased to see her trudge about. She could not begin to keep up & when they moved their hands up & down, as you have seen them at E. they would get hold of hers & help the poor thing. They also had a very noble looking man about 28 years of age I should think, he had not taken off his velvet vest & broadcloth pants, but he beat the Shakers themselves. He would cut around like the mischief. He would hug one and kiss him then another & and so on, & I'll be bound he got hold of a bluberliped negro. How sweet. I saw him upon the floor at length & I concluded that the fellow had got the apoplexy from his exercise & almost begun to feel for my lanech. But in a few minutes up he hopped and at it again. I wonder the men and women did not hug & kiss each other But I never saw a bit of the thing. No sport in this. I should have made a mistake and kissed a young girl for they had 2 or 3 very pretty looking girls. Perhaps you may think I exagerate the proceedings. N: I fall far short of it. You can have scarcely any idea of their conduct. They do more injury to their health in an hour this way than a months hard work, for what is like getting drunk by turning and tumbling about thus." In 1837 or 1838, Antoinette C. M. Bliss, went to Louisiana to visit her aunt, Mrs. Susan (Brewer) Thomas. Susan Brewer was daughter of Charles Brewer of this town. She was the second Preceptress of Wesley an Academy, 1827-1829, and married Capt. David Thomas of Louisiana in 1834. About 1838, her niece, Antoinette C. M. Bliss (afterwards Mrs. Speer) made Mrs. Thomas a visit. The following is a copy of part of a letter she wrote to her aunt (Mrs. Thomas Merrick) of this town. "Cottage Hall, Jackson La. "Feb. 8'h 1838. "I have just been out in the ironing house and it is a real curiousity. 4 nursing babes and 8 others from creeping up to 3 or 4 yrs of age. I dont know what will be when summer comes; 6 cradles, and they make the larger ones rock the least now. No one need to say, but that uncles niggers have an easy time." THE WARNER PAPERS I have made the following copies from a collection of about a thousand old ])apers and letters, formerly belonging to 314 The History of Wilbraham ("Clark") Samuel Warner, and his son, James Warner, now in possession of Edward P. Chapin, 97 Spring Street, Spring- field, Mass. James Warner was conductor of the mail stage between Boston and New York for a few years, about 1790. The stage line was owned by Pease & Sikes. On back of old Deed: "A Recight to make a good ointement for Bruses and maney Sorts of Lamenes — Vis. take spear mint and mutton tallow Simer them togather till Looks green then as much Beas Wax as tallow and as much Rosam as Each of the others and Simer them well. Set it by till it is as Cold so you may have your finger in it then poor in Rum and Stir it to gather till it is Could. "Take Spere mint & mutten taller Bees wax Rossom Rum as much of one as the other." "Boston Mar S'^'i 1790 Re'^'^ of John Templeman One Hundred Thousand Dollars in old Continental money. One Hundred and Twenty one Dollars in New York new issue ? Money and Twenty Dollars in Pensilvania Do. Five Dollars New Jersey Do. All of which I promise to deliver to Mr Ebenezer Thayer in New York." (Name torn off.) "Hartford 7"^ Feb>-1790 Rec^ from Amor Bull 24 peices of Gold weight 135 dw^ which I promise to deliver Mr James Cummings No. 1 William Street New York immediately on my arrival next Wednesday signed James Warner." (But most of the name torn off.) "New York June P' 1790 Received of Prosper Wetmore a ticket in the second Class of Massachusetts State Lottery No. 2865 which has drawn a prize of one Hundred Dollars, which I promise to receive, and bring on to said P. Wetmore or return the ticket, to receive for my trouble one per Cent commission James Warner" The History of Wilbraham 315 "Rec^ of Norman Butler one small tied Bundle said to con- tain Two South Carolina State Notes amounting to One Hun- dred fifty five pounds 11-s Sterling which Bundle is directed to Daniel Pomfret Merchant Water Street New York and which I am to deliver S"* Pomfret on my arrival in New York with the next mail. Hartford 6"' Sep. 1790, for Levi Pease. James Warner." (About 90 receipts similar to these four, given by James Warner as conductor of the mail in 1790.) Copy of Act of Legislature about 1745: "Be it enacted &c that Whenever aney Dog Shall Kill or Wound aney Sheep and proof Be made there of Before aney of his magistes Justes of y"" pees for the County whare such Damig is Don y*^ S^) Justis is Reg spedily to Notify y*" oner of S^ Dog of such Damig and if y*" Dog be not Kill^ within 48 ours after such notis given y*" oner shall forfit y" sum of five pounds to be recovered." "Rec'' Wilbraham April 14'*^ 1774 of James Warner his promissory note of hand for the sum of £6. 18s. when paid, in full for my services in teaching a Singing School the Winter past also for the Bass Viol which I made in that time. Witness my hand George Allen." Among the papers of James Warner I found the following, which is so quaint and peculiar that it seems worth preserving. JAMES WARNER'S "DREAM" When Sol from high meridian had finish^^ his carear A Lively semicircle in the West then did appear With a dark shady mantle the Globe all round was drest And over the Blue Canopy the Stars were interspersed Strait unto my Chamber then instantly I Came Leaning down upon my Bed I fell into a dream I thought four men in ancient Dress presented me a hand They told me I might admittance find By the order of S<^ John They told me the four Brethering wear & from Jeraslam came In Solomans time the porters ware all round the temple of fame there was Solam Highman & acib their names I did enquire and talman a So Jorner wear and came from mount Moria 316 The History of Wilbraham They ordered me for to Repair all with a Cemel}^ Grace Unto the mount of Horab to view that holy place Talman he Gave orders & bid me not refuse Upon that holy mountain for to take off my shoes Then to the Mount moriah Side a pilgrim I did Repair With Cherubims & palm trees the walls all Cover^ wear When in a trembleing poister I knocked at a door — Resolv^ if I admittance found to See the thrashing floor — But orders from the alter Came for to Examin me Upon A point I Entered & Being Born free I heard a Noise come from the East which made a glorious sound Then from my eyes a soit did drop & soon a light I found What glorious things I then did see I mean for to Conceal To none But such as I am I Ever will Reveal I then Got orders for to proceed & leave that holy mountain Straitway I was Conducted Back to Jordons Christal fountain Over Jordans Stream we passed as I must tell you true Of Ephramites at once they fell thousands forty two Yet I was Resolv^ once more to See moriahs holy Ground When I came there such Raps I gave as made the solemn sound Then Back to Enochs Building to view that Lovely town — He was a son to Lamach a Craft of high Renown — I understand you are a Craft By what you tell to me And finer in mettle you are Skil'. of Co:nmon'''" It is interesting to know that part of the "First Massachu- setts Turnpike" was in Wilbraham. Probably the west end of it was near the present railroad station at North Wilbraham. (Probably nothing was done to build the "Wilbraham Turn- pike.") A STRANGE ACCIDENT The death of Charles Brewer, Jr., on September 28, 1853, may be classed as remarkable. He was the son of Charles Brewer, and grandfather of Charles A. Brewer, now living in Wilbraham. He lived in the first house south of the first Methodist meeting house, in the house now owned by F. A. Gumey. The accident happened about 100 rods east of our Main Street, in the cart-path which leads off from the road running up the mountain, south of the stone church. I heard the story at the time, substantially as follows: There is a very steep pitch in the cart -path just beyond the stone wall, and Mr. Brewer was coming down the path with his horse and wagon. He unhitched the horse from the wagon, took hold of the shafts himself, and attempted to guide the wagon down the hill. In passing through the bar-way, near The History of Wilbraham 321 the foot of the hill, he was pushed against the post on the south side, and one of the shafts pierced entirely through his body, near the chest. I have heard the account told, that he was leading the horse down the hill and was caught against the bar-post and his body pierced by the shaft. This account seems more likely to be the way the accident happened than the other. But the result was the same. He was killed there. He was 78 years and eight months old, and it seems very strange that he should have attempted to hold the wagon back himself, and much more likely that he was leading the horse. He was buried in the Woodland Dell Cemetery. His widow, "Atmt Fanny Brewer," as she was called, sur- vived him many years. DISPOSAL OF THE POOR IN BYGONE DAYS "In 1821, A poor Child Betsy bound out to John to learn the art, trade or mystery of housekeeping, Her master & mistress she shall faithfully serve, his or her secrets keep, & his or her lawful commands everywhere, at all times readily obey — at cards, dice or any other unlawful game she shall not play — -nor matrimony contract, during the 's'^ term." (Till she was 18 years old.) Jan. 6, 1833, the selectmen agreed to pay Samuel Beebe $690.00 "to care for, and to Bury any who may die, all the Paupers of Wilbraham for one year." "Dec. 2"^! 1833, Sold to Samuel Beebe the Poor of the town — by Vendue he being the lowest bidder at ten hundred and ninety nine Dollars for two years from the first of April next." FRAGMENTS (Copied from the Stebbins History.) "I have gathered from various sources the following facts and traditions, which may be of interest to the curious in such matters. They are mostly obtained from the papers left by Calvin Stebbins and John Bliss, Esqs. 322 The History of Wilbraham "Agriculture. — The first potatoes were brought to town by Dea. Nathaniel Warriner, about 1754, or about twenty- three years after the town was settled. There was but a peck of them. Broom-corn was first raised by Thomas Jones or Joshua Leonard. At a later period, Paul Langdon and Calvin and Sylvanus Stebbins raised it in considerable quantities and manufactured it into brooms. About 1859 it was raised by Daniel Atchinson on West Street and made into brooms on the place. "Plaster of Paris, or gypsum, was first brought from West Springfield by Gad Lamb, about 1776. ' ' Calvin Stebbins brought the first plough with iron mould- board into town; and, probably Daniel I sham used the first cast-iron plough some ninety years ago. "Hops were cultivated about eighty years ago, by Calvin Stebbins. The mulberry fever raged eighty years ago, much to the pecuniary damage of many speculators. "Grafted fruit took the place, at about the same time, of the old varieties or cider apples. Flax ceased to be cultivated at the same time. Hemp was raised by a few farmers in the war of 1812. "Piscatory. — It was considered disreputable in early times for farmers to go after shad. They were said by their neighbors to be 'out of pork.' Hence, persons, going for shad, went in the morning before their neighbors were up, and did not return till they were in bed. Shad were so abundant, and farmers were so unwilling to take them, that the fishermen required that so many pounds of shad should be taken for every pound of salmon. About seventy -five years ago bull-heads or horn- pouts made their appearance in the Scantic, and the trout all disappeared, much to the mortification of the anglers. A few years after, the 'pout' disappeared, and the 'trout' returned. There was a furor ran through the country at one time of obtaining pearls from fresh-water clams. Some of respectable size and value were found in the clams in the Scantic. "Conveyances. — Lieut. Paul Langdon brought the first wagon into town. In 1784 there were but two two-horse wagons and five two-horse sleighs. In 1804 Jesse or Pliny Bliss introduced a one-horse wagon. First buffalo robe brought from Montreal, 1805; cost 5.00. "Inventions. — Lewis Langdon invented a machine for turning cider-mill screws; Walter Burt, shears for cutting the The History of Wilbraham 323 nap of cloth. Edwin Chaffee, a native of this town, invented the use of India-rubber preparations for cloth. Probably this is the most important invention made by any of the natives of the town. "Vermin. — David Chapin brought the first rat to the town in a sack of wool from Rhode Island, and permitted it to live. Hence, rats in Wilbraham. "Stock. — Capt. Charles Sessions introduced Merino sheep, and had a large flock. Capt. Joseph Lathrop and sons intro- duced Saxon sheep and kept a large flock of several hundred. Improvement was not made in cattle till a later date. The breed of swine received earlier attention. "Names of Places, Mountains, Brooks, etc. — The North East Village long since outgrew its name of 'Sodom;' and the South Parish that of ' Pokeham;' and the South Village that of 'the city.' The Goat Rocks were so called as being the favorite resort of William King's goats, one of which got entangled there, and was found dead. These rocks are a ledge about thirty feet perpendicular, at the south end of the North Moun- tains. Rocky Dundee was many years ago the name of the region south of Burt's mill. Pole Bridge Brook was so called from the bridge first built over it; it was also called Beaver Brook, because the beavers had built a dam in it ; Twelve-mile Brook, because twelve miles from Springfield; Nine-mile Pond, because nine miles from Springfield; Rattlesnake Peak, because a rattlesnake was killed there; Wigwam Hill from the Indian squaw's wigwam near it; Stony Hill, because it was stony; Peggy's Dipping Hole, because Peggy, in her desire to attend upon the means of grace furnished at Springfield, ventured, in her pilgrimage thither, to cross some recently-frozen ice and went through into the water." "THE LEGEND OF KIBBE'S SHIRT "An alarm was once raised in Wilbraham that the Indians were coming. It was on this w4se: One Kibbe went into the woods on Sunday, to get his cow, and not having the fear of either God or the law before his eyes, he took with him his gun in case he should meet any game. Not long after he left home, the report of two guns was heard, and Kibbe came running back in great apparent trepidation, saying that he had been 324 The History of Wilbraham fired at by two Indians, and that there were more lurking in the woods. The whole country was alarmed, and the woods were scoured in search of the 'salvages.' None were found, nor were any traces of them discovered. Suspicion began to be excited that all was not right with Kibbe. A more particular examination of his shirt was instituted. He declared that he received one shot in his breast, and when he turned to run, another shot took him in his back. Lo, it was even so; a bullet- hole was made through his shirt before; another through his shirt behind. But alas for Kibbe's veracity, not for his com- fort, there was no hole into or through his body, where the bullet went! He saw he was caught, and made confession that seeing game, he was tempted to fire ; that he at once bethought himself that he was exposed to prosecution for violating the Sabbath, and took off his shirt and fired through it, to make his neighbors believe that the Indians had attacked him. So originated and ended the only alarm of an attack on Wilbraham. "THE PRESBYTERIAN SADDLE" "The collectors found it very difficult at times to get the taxes for the support of the gospel. In the early days of the precinct and town, the money for the support of religious services was raised by a tax assessed on the property of the precinct town or parish when there was but one church society. But as other denominations began to be formed, their members objected to paying any part of the expenses of the 'standing order;' and no little cunning, as well as spunk, was sometimes displayed in escaping payment. Abraham Avery was a promi- nent man in the town, a tanner and saddle and harness maker; a man of great energy, indomitable persistency, pious and plucky to admiration; from hair to heel a Methodist. He was cunning withal, and liked a practical joke, so be it was worthy of his religious profession. He owed a tax. He wouldn't pay it. The collector of the parish determined to have it. ' Get it then' said Avery. Now Avery could make a good saddle, — one that the Queen's horse-guards would be proud of in finish, and whose strength would have carried any one of the six hundred through the immortal charge of Balaklava. So, in his meditations, Avery determined to make a saddle to pay his tax withal. He selected the pieces of leather which best pleased the eye, and fitted them together as he well' knew how, being a skilful worker in leather, and mounted it with shining metal, so that it was very tempting to look upon, like the forbidden The History of Wilbraham 325 fruit of Eden. Avery knew that the strength was not equal to the beauty thereof; but as it was not for sound doctrine he made it, so he delighted in correspondency. The collector came; the shop had been cleared of most of the finished work besides, and when he cast his eye upon the saddle he did covet it much for his taxes, and was much delighted when Avery declined to pay them. 'I must take this nice saddle, then,' said the publican. 'Take it then,' quoth Avery gruffly. It was taken. Avery's face was sparkling all over with delight as the constable put the prize in his wagon and drove off. It was sold at auction and brought a great price, far above the amount of the tax; for it was known that Avery's saddles were of the best. The constable offered the excess of the sale over the tax to Avery, but he would not take it. The constable tendered to him the balance in gold; Avery said he would have nothing to do with it. The saddle was purchased by a man from Belcher- town. He was tempted to try it early. It looked magnificently on his horse's back. He sprang upon it. Out came one stirrup ! down broke the seat! out came the bridge! off dropped the sides ! and he spake words of Avery and the saddle which were not lawful to be spoken, and should not be written. He came to Avery in great wrath, and asked him if he did not warrant his saddles. 'Certainly,' said Avery. 'Well, then,' he replied, 'look at this saddle.' 'Ah' said Avery 'that is the "Presby- terian saddle," I have nothing to do with that.' And, with a relish of satisfaction, he again drew his strong waxed-end through the leather upon which he was at work, for he enjoyed hugely what had come to pass." Abraham Avery lived about a mile north of the center of our center village, where Ira G. Potter formerly lived, in the house now owned by Mr. Torrey. The tannery was at the next house north, formerly the Nathaniel Knowlton place, and now owned by O. L. Milard. The harness shop was at the first house south, where Arthur Sinith now lives. PAINTINGS OF THE SCENERY IN WILBRAHAM The following is taken from the Stebbins History published in 1864: "I am most happy to report that the beautiful scenery of Wilbraham has found an artist and a j^atron. I have seen and t > ' ^f- 1 ..'4 ': , :,>r^ ' 1 ',-... 1 , ^^. ' '- > . u . .'. \.. ^ t H 13 o a) 328 The History of Wilbraham been charmed by the two paintings described below, in an article taken from the Zions Herald, Feb. 10, 1864. They are all that the critic describes them to be. I have also seen two others, just finished, of equal, if not greater, beauty. One is an autumn scene, taken from a little lower down the mountain than the first two were, and looking out over the plains to the Western Mountains. The foliage is admirably tinted, and the autumnal haze lies on the distant plains and mountains. The other is taken from the north end of Nine-mile Pond, the view being toward the south, the mountains forming the distant background of the picture. The execution is admira- ble. "Wilbraham has many lovers of her scenery no less than of her school; but she has hitherto found no way of revealing her beauties to other eyes than those that have been fastened upon her. But she need lament her lot no longer. Two paintings, at Williams & Everett's gallery, in this city, proclaim her beauty to every eye. They were painted for Abraham Avery, of Boston, by Mr. Bricher, a young artist of great promise, and, judging from these works, of great achievement. The views are taken from a spot well-known to every Wilbraham student, — at the head of the upper grove that contains 'the pulpit' on the road winding up the mountain, behind the church. It is across the street from the little red cottage of the Goody Blake, of that neighborhood, whose 'hut was on the cold hill-side.' On the left of the picture are these favorite woods, the scene of many a prayer-meeting, oratorical explosion, lounging, reading, or musing solitaries, or of the law-breaking trysts of love's young dream. The trees are superbly painted, being full of rich color and shade. One could almost transport himself thither, they are so life-like and enchanting. But the eye must not linger in their gothic greenness, nor dwell too long upon the truthfully-rough fields under the feet or on the little old cottage aforesaid, snugly tucked away in the hillside in the opposite corner. More familiar scenes below allure it. There creeps the street, its few houses sprinkled among the many trees, like white flowers blossoming on a green river. No stiller in the picture than in the fact is the pleasant old road. With pre-Raphaelite faithfulness the artist puts upon it no living creature, though he might have painted the aged grey postman with his aged grey horse, and still had it void of life, so ghostly is that sole animator of the seemingly-deserted village. The immense and not inartistic pile of the boarding-house, most inartistic though it be in location, is partially hidden by the The History of Wilbraham 329 projecting woods behind the Academy hill, which grove pre- vents the sight of the Academy buildings. "Beyond lie the plains, patched with herbage, ploughed fields, trees and houses, and flecked with the shade and sun- shine of a midsummer day. A lover of nature could gaze on it for hours without weariness, a lover of Wilbraham with ever- increasing pleasure. "The companion picture gives us the north-western view from the same spot. The foreground is fictitious, in order to avoid repetition, though the rock in the left-hand comer is a veritable copy of the boulder perched upon the hill back of the house of J. Wesley Bliss Esq. (now the home of his daughter, Mrs. Gillett.) The woods in the foreground are more beautiful, if possible than those in the first picture. The outlook is true to the fact. The broad champaign, beautifully toned and varied, and relieved of its flatness, gathers to the gorge between Mounts Holyoke and Tom. These mountains are perfect even to the bits of houses that mar their summits. Through the opening is seen Northampton. The mountains rise behind her, and conclude the scene. "We understand that others are on the easel, representing the Nine-mile Pond, Glen, etc. The paintings attract much attention, and have been highly commended in the Transcript and the Gazette. We hope they and their forthcoming kindred will be engraved. The first, at least, should be as many a child of the Old Wesleyan will wish it, on his walls. The thanks of all her ten thousand children, more or less, will assuredly be given to the munificence of the gentleman who ordered the works, as well as to the artist who executed them." THE WILBRAHAM CELEBRATION The newspapers of Springfield and Boston gave generous space, both before and after the anniversary, to the accounts of the celebration, and published many illustrations of historical places and of the floats that appeared in the pageant. 330 The History of Wilbraham The following is a condensed copy of some of the accounts. TOWN HISTORY PORTRAYED IN BIG PARADE OF FLOATS MANY OLD RESIDENTS RETURN FOR THE 150th ANNIVERSARY Chauncey E. Peck Gives Historical Address — Loan Exhibition of Much Interest Wilbraham, Tuesday June 17, 1913. ' ' Not one of the inhabitants of Wilbraham or any of the hundreds of outsiders who visited the town today will ever forget the day or the place. It was the real ofhcial opening of the 150th anniversary of the incorporation of Wilbraham as a town and every one from far and near turned out to do justice to the day and its significance. The population of the town for the day was swelled to double its normal size and not a single person can doubt for a moment but that today was the biggest, best and busiest day in the whole history of Wilbraham and, indeed, it may be safely asserted that no other New England town of its size has ever held an affair that could surpass it. Beginning early in the morning, when the long parade first formed, and lasting until the last speech had been delivered in the late afternoon and the farmers had filed over the hills to their homes in their wagons and automobiles, there was not a single untoward incident to mar a perfect day. "The Community Enthusiasm "Wilbraham truly 'did herself proud.' To many of the visitors it seemed inconceivable that a comparatively small town could arrange and execute such a program as that of today. It would have been a credit to any city, irrespective of size. Perhaps, though, the lack of inhabitants was more than made up for by the feeling of comradeship and town pride that has ever distinguished this little fastness among the Wilbraham mountains. The difficulties of the big cities in arousing universal The History of Wilbraham 831 enthusiasm were unknown to Wilbraham. Here every man, woman and child turned out for the celebration, and, what is more, has been working steadily for weeks in preparation for it. It was a magnificent spectacle and example of what commtmity feeling can do when it once sets itself about it. "Yet the credit must not go wholly to the town of Wilbraham itself, no matter how deserving it may be. Part of it belongs to the sister community of Hampden, which but a few short years ago, reckoning years in comparison with those of the town's existence, was an integral part of Wilbraham. When Hampden separated from Wilbraham her inhabitants did not lose their feeling for the older community and today they showed their gratitude, and feeling of kinship by joining in with the celebra- tion heart and soul. Many of the floats in the big parade were engineered and gotten up by Hampden people. "Then, too, there must be credit given to the former inhabit- ants who came for many miles in trollies and automobiles to see the old town once more and renew acquaintance with old friends. Court square in Springfield was a general meeting place for these, and the Palmer and Worcester cars were packed with people, each exclaiming, 'Why, there's George. I haven't seen him since we went to the Glendale school together,' or 'You haven't changed a bit, Mary, since we were in Mr. Howard's class at the old Sunday-school.' When these people had reached the point where they had to leave the cars it was a different Wilbraham and yet the same Wilbraham that met their gaze from that which they had last known. There was hardly a house but boasted gay streamers and decorations of red, white and blue in honor of the big day. The road from North Wilbraham to Wilbraham Street was a blaze of color, rivaling, if not surpassing, any attempts at decoration in the big cities on a 'safe and sane' Fourth of July. Wilbraham street, as the Center is called was perhaps the brightest as indeed it had good reason to be. Today's celebration was for the benefit of this part of the town. Tomorrow will see the festivities move to North Wilbraham and Thursday, the closing day of the carnival will give Glendale, the third sec- tion, a chance to show what it can do. "The Parade "It was promptly at 9 o'clock in the morning that the Wil- braham-street section of the parade formed for its trip to North Wilbraham. Soon it had reached that point and was joined 332 The History of Wilbraham by the floats that had formed at North Wilbraham. Then the parade retracing the way to Wilbraham street, down to the ' Mile Tree ' and back, and ending at the judges' stand in front of the Methodist church, almost opposite Rich hall of Wilbra- hain academy. All along the way, in front of the houses gay with bunting, sat family groups, many of which had not been reunited for years, but the biggest crowd was around the judges' stand where several hundred people had gathered to witness the parade from the most advantageous point possible. "When the procession did come in sight it was worth any kind of a wait. Down the long street, well in advance, came the automobile of the marshal, J. M. Perry of the Cutler com- pany, and directly behind him appeared the Brightside band of 31 pieces, each small boy tooting away for dear life and helping to create a decidedly favorable impression. Then on horse-back came the assistant marshals, Harold Bolles, William V. Baldwin, Peter Gebo, and Mr. Stevens, with the aid of their prancing horses, holding the floats at the proper distance apart, and generally superintending the affair to see that all went well. And then came the great body of the parade, decorated automobiles in the lead, and followed by the historical floats, decorated floats, decorated carriages and some miscellaneous floats. Truly it was a great sight. "The Automobile Section "Among the automobiles that led the procession were those containing the guests of honor, former Senator W. Murray Crane of Dalton, members of the town governments of Wil- braham and Hampden, and for the city of Springfield, the mother colony, five members of the city government, Alderman Henry Lasker and John G. Maxfield and Councilmen George W. Pike, William B. Sleigh and Nelson W. Haskell and also Emmett Hay Naylor, secretary of the Springfield board of trade, and Charles C. Spellman of the board of Hampden County commissioners. There were about 20 of the automo- biles in the parade, each decorated with paper streamers and flowers and with the chauffeurs sitting up straight and stiff in the hope of doing what they could to win the prizes that the judges awarded to this part of the exhibition. The first award for decorated automobiles went to J. M. Perry, whose car presented a beautiful appearance with streamers and festoons of light blue with wreaths of blue and white flowers draped along the side. Almost as lovely as this was the appearance 334 The History of Wilbraham presented by the car owned by Ernest Thompson, which was handsomely decorated along the same lines with pink and white. Not one of the cars but stood a good show for a prize, and it was only after long deliberation that the judges arrived at their decision. "The Historical Division "It was the aim of the historical division of the parade to trace the history of the town of Wilbraham and incidentally of Hampden by the floats used. This they succeeded in accom- plishing in excellent manner. At the head came an automobile containing Anson Soule in the guise of an old town crier, and the executive committee. Mr. Soule's six feet three inches of hight, 230 pounds of weight, and eighty-two years of age, all clad in the garb of an ancient pilgrim, and his constant ringing of a big bell and proclamation of 'Hear ye, hear ye' attracted to him the considerable notice and appreciation that was his due. A mere glance at himi carried one back 300 years and it was only the sight of the automobile that made one remember that this is the 20th century and not the 17th. " 'Purchasing the land from the Indians,' the first float in the division of the parade, represented the purchasing of the mountain part of the town from the Indians. It was a master- piece from start to finish, and no one could have raised a dis- senting voice against the, opinions of the judges who awarded it the first prize. Myron Luther Bruuer conceived the float, which was drawn by six horses driven by Raymond Pease. In the background stood a realistic wigwam surrounded by pines and in front of this were grouped a number of men in colonial clothes, clinching the bargain with several Indians, all of whom looked good enough to be real. The hand of the old blind chief was guided by his daughter as it traced the characters giving the land to the settlers, for tradition says that the chief was blind and that his daughter was both his hand and his eye. Among those who were on the float were F. A. Gumey, Miss Katherine Beebe, Allen Robb, and Wilbur Gebo. 'The first settlers,' the next float in line, depicted the first settlers of 1731, their rude log cabin with the pot containing the dinner steaming away in front of the hut. Two men were just returning from their work, and their wives waited for them in front of the cabin, while a small child played on the ground, apparently oblivious of anything except the fact that he was 336 The History of Wilbraham really and truly the child of those early inhabitants who built the foundations for the Wilbraham of today. Charles Hitch- cock was the originator of this float, and one of the women on the float was Mrs. Charles Hitchcock. " 'The last of the race' came directly behind 'The first settlers' and contained the old squaw who made famous Wigwam hill by living there long after her race had taken the long trail to the West. C. C. Beebe was the squaw and acted the part in realistic fashion. He sat crouched in front of his wigwam, his eyes turned to the ground and brooding over the glories of the dead past. Round after round of applause greeted this float, for it was well known that Mr. Beebe had conceived and carried out the idea almost at the last moment, when everyone else had given up the problem, despairing of getting anything that would be adequate to what was wanted. The setting was worthy of a professional stage manager, and Mr. Beebe showed himself an accomplished actor in his part. Back of the wigwam were the skulls of two steers, and in front was all the paraphernalia that goes to make life in an Indian camp. Very deservingly the judges awarded the second prize to this float. " 'The first meeting house' came next. This float was the work of Edwin C. Powell and was a triumph of itself. The meeting house stood at the rear of the float and in front of it was the good old parson, who on ordinary days is George Capen, exhorting his flock, which consisted of Mrs. F. A. Bodurtha, Mrs. Mandana Moseley and Mrs. John Pease. A little behind this float, came another 'first minister' the role being taken by Henry Green, who was driving to church with a chaise that looked every day of 1000 years old, but only guaranteed some 100 years or more. " ' Past and present,' the next float, represented the 17th century and the 20th. Nearly everything was found here, including all industries from the old hand spinning to the modem methods of today. The Puritan women aboard found themselves in strange company for beside them was a Wilbra- ham academy youth in striped blazer coat and white flannel trousers making ardent love to a debutante of the date of 1913. Among those on the float were W. H. McGuire, Mrs. Eva Gumey, Miss Maud Hubbard, Mr. and Mrs. Hardy and Miss Marjorie Bolles. " The 'minutemen of 1913' brought the recollection of spectators to recent years when these same minutemen did The History of Wilbraham 337 yeoman service in putting out the forest fire that threatened the town a year ago. . . "One of the most interesting floats was the one depicting the old home industries with a cheese press and shoeniaking establishment going at full speed, and women engaged in the old arts of knitting and braiding at the sides of the wagon. "Wilbraham academy likewise had an interesting one with the goddess of leaming^in the guise of Mrs. Alfred Gustafson, wife of one of the teachers, mounted on a purple throne and disseminating knowledge to two youthful pupils in cap and gown. "Every school in Wilbraham and Hampden was repre- sented. District No. 7, once taught by A. J. Blanchard, had an excellent float and a number of Mr. Blanchard's old pupils had gathered from far and near to ride in it, and thus do honor to the memory of their old master. On the side was an old blackboard 75 years of age which was the only one used in the early days. Mary Newell's school was also represented by a^ fine float, and No. 5; 'the smallest but most important' and' the second oldest in the town, had a placard on the side stating that it had been taught by Master Ezra Barker. "There were several old chaises dating back as far as 1793, and 1811. One labeled 'Ancient Days' enabled the Day family to act out a pun on their name, for in the old carryall sat Clinton C. and Morton L. Day and Mrs. Elvira C. (Day) Blanchard. "F. W. Green's old stagecoach attracted much attention and was well loaded with passengers, inside and out. "The manner in which wives used to ride behind their husbands was represented by two boys riding a pony, Wallace Ripley and Ellery Gebo in the guise of the first minister and his bride on their way to church. "Business Floats "One of the best was that of the Ludlow manufacturing associates which won first prize, by a float with a 'breaker card ' machine in full operation showing how sacking and other products are manufactured from jute. "Second prize went to the Cutler company with a float heaped high with barrels and bags of flour. "The Collins manufacturing company also had an attractive float decorated mostly in white, and showing a huge pyramid of their fine papers. The History of Wilbraham 339 " ' To Church — 1741 — Wigwam Hill.' Oxcart, driven bv Amos Merrill with gun over his shoulder, carrying Florence Lee, Allena Kibbe and Melba Moore. " ' Dec. 16, 1773.' The British ship Dartmouth, with William Vyne Sessions, Robert and Paul Sessions, and Robert Vizard throwing the tea overboard, all descendants of Robert Sessions, South Wilbraham's representative at the Tea Partv. Driver E. J. Thresher. " ' The First Schoolhouse.' Arranged by Kenia Carew after the plan of the first Scantic school; teacher, Herbert H. Thresher; pupils, Kenia Carew, Ruth Pike, Hazel and Mildred Pease, Austin Harris and Neil Kibbe; driver, Arthur Pease. " ' Dividing the Town— March 28, 1878.' Third prize winner; prepared by C. L. Kibbe; Russell Kibbe and Harry Lyons sawing a log in two before a map of the two towns; driver, Ralph Lyons. " 'Old Agriculture' prepared for the Hampden Grange by Mrs. McCray and Mrs. Sessions; drawn by two yoke of oxen; driver, D. L. McCray: other participants, Mrs. Lena Keeney, Willie McCray, J. J. Flynn. " 'New Agriculture' a grange float prepared by Mrs. Bolter and Mr. Wait ; a small orchard planted on one of W. J. Mackay's Mt. Vision fruit farm wagons; attendants Mrs. Bolter and Mrs. Dickinson; driver, Harry Dickinson. "Two floats with Grammar School children carrying the flags of Hampden's 42 college graduates. Float for No. 2 decorated with daisies by Miss Fay and Grace Pease. Driver W. W. Leach. The other schools were carried by E. P. Lyons. "Primary children on F. T. Kellogg's auto truck. A. G. Corey's store planned by Frank Perry; Mr. Corey in charge; clerks, Mabel Davis, Arlene Howlett, Mary Williams, Esther Bradbury, Frank Perry, Eddy Leddv and Raymond Kibbe; driver, C. N. Whittaker. "H. L. Handy, auto truck carrying 'Sir Mustard' a prize ox, whose father and mother came from Guernsey. Ruth Merrill beside the driver. " ' Spotted Float' — Mr. and Mrs. J. B. Isham. dri\'ing a wagon loaded with different kinds of spotted animals. " 'White Poultry.' Driven by George Chapin, decorated with hundreds of his prize ribbons, with the help of Aliss Fa\' ' and Miss Pease. "Mr. and Mrs. C. L. Kibbe in an old two-wheeler, Mr. and Mrs. C. I. Burleigh in Deacon Sumner Session's old carriage, and Francis Eldridge and Florence Loomis and Helen Kibbe in 340 The History of Wilbraham another vehicle of the olden times, all dressed in costumes of 150 years ago. "At 12.30 o'clock dinner was served to about 500 in the academy gymnasium by the Barr catering company. As guests of honor, on either side of Chairman C. C. Spellman, sat former Senator W. Murray Crane and Principal Douglass of the acade- my. Also at that table were the Springfield City officials and the anniversary committee. "After the dinner a large audience assembled at 2.30 in the Methodist church, which was handsomelv decorated. Marshall MEMORI.^L M. E. CHURCH J. M. Perry introduced Charles C. Spellman, chairman of the County Commissioners of Hampden County, as the presiding chairman. Mr. Spellman spoke briefly in appreciation of the honor conferred upon him, paying tribute to former Senator Crane, who, while himself a native of Dalton, has always taken an interest in Wilbraham, because his grandmother, Lucinda Brewer, was born here. Prayer was offered by Rev. Martin S. Howard. Then the school children sang 'The Breaking Waves Dashed High.' "Alderman Lasker, in behalf of Mayor Denison of Springfield, who was unable to be present, brought the greetings of the Mother Springfield to her Daughter Wilbraham. He pointed out that the interests of Springfield are the same as those of The History of Wilbraham 341 the towns roundabout. Wilbraham he deemed to be one of the most beautiful of these, and it was with due appreciation of the privilege that he counted himself among those present. Brief remarks of a congratulatory character were made by one of the selectmen of Hampden, and by William R. Sessions. The chairman then, with some complimentary remarks, intro- duced the chairman of the historical committee, to give the Historical Address, which occupied more than one hour and a half, and is included in the foregoing History. "The Address closed with these words; "SONS AND DAUGHTERS OF WILBRAHAM "We enter upon a new period of fifty years. Let us so live that those who come after us will honor our memory as we honor that of our fathers'. Let us strive to make ourselves better, to make Wilbraham better, and so help to make the world better. "The Loan Exhibit "Columns of appreciation and description might be written about the loan exhibit which was held in Grange hall where a number of old and interesting relics were displayed. Com- munion sets used at the Congregational Church from the very earliest times. One presented by Dea. Nathaniel Warriner, and loaned by Mrs. Brewer. There were also sets used by the Methodist church, the Glendale church and Grace church at North Wilbraham. Old china loaned by Mrs. Nesmith, a compass belonging to Mr. Newell of Hampden which was used in 1729, a watch, still running, dated 1638, owned by G. S. Atchinson, collection of old firearms dating from the 16th centurv and loaned by W. A. Newton, Indian relics picked up in Wilbraham by B. F. Green, and a raised map of Hampden made by Rev. C. B. Bliss. There was a fine collection of rare old quilts and coverlets, homemade linen and flax, oil paintings, a chest 200 years old, a wooden shaving case dated 1767, a hand trunk 200 years old owned by Myron L. Bruuer's grand- father, fancy work, china and old books, a part from Hampden; an old tea chest brought here in 1776, a very old and exceedingly \-aluablc copper luster teapot, and a hymn book dating from 1780, loaned by Mrs. C. E. Pease, a collection of ancient Bibles and other books from Rev. M. S. Howard, a leather pouch used in the Revolutionary War, two old drums, one carried in 342 The History of Wilbraham the war of 1812, owned by George Knowlton, and the other by Almond Laird, a hand netted tester used on a four-posted bed, and several chairs dating back more than a century. "During the day Rich hall of Wilbraham Academy was thrown open for inspection and many took the opportunity to view the changes that have been made there. Principal Gay- lord W. Douglass was on the premises most of the day and several of the academy boys were delegated to show the visitors around. The new dining room, library and sleeping rooms for the boys were all looked over and all the visitors expressed great admiration at the changes that had been wrought. SECOND DAY OF CELEBRATION DEDICATION OF FINE LIBRARY NOTABLE FEATURE IN CELEBRATION OF WILBRAHAM'S 150TH ANNIVERSARY CANTATA IS GIVEN "Wilbraham, June 18, 1913. — Ideal weather again greeted Wilbraham residents, present and past, on the second day of the 150th anniversary of the incorporation of the town. Today's celebration was held in North Wilbraham, where the Cutler public library was publicly dedicated and formally opened with thoughtful addresses by Librarian Wilcox of the Holyoke City Library and by Rev. Dr. William R. Newhall of Lynn. An address by J. T. Bowne of the Y. M. C. A. college faculty on 'The Indians in and about Wilbraham,' the presentation of the floral cantata, 'The Floral Queen,' in the gardens of Mrs. H. W. Cutler, and a loan exhibition in the librar}' building were other features of the day. "The attendance to the celebration proper was swelled by hundreds of automobilists, largely from Springfield, who came The History of Wilbraham 343 to participate in the annual outing of the Springfield Automobile club in Wilbraham. The Brightside band again gave several concerts during the day. "The North Wilbraham library, which was formally opened today, is a handsome two-story house, with French roof, the gift to the town of the late Henry Cutler, who came to Wil- braham in 1877 and was one of its most enterprising and public-spirited citizens and business men. On the ground floor the front room will be used as a reading TBI.IC UBUAHV. room and the room in the rear for the books, of which there is already a large collection in the present library building. "Rev. William Lewis Jennings, pastor of Grace Union church, presided at the opening of the building at 11 o'clock, first introducing the aged pastor of Wilbraham street. Rev. Martin S. Howard, who, in his prayer of dedication, besought Providence to look with di\'ine favor upon this endeavor to provide young people with the lofty companionship of books and magazines of the best type. "Before presenting the kc^'s of the library to the trustees, Mr. Jennings referred to the public institutions existing in our 344 The History of Wilbraham own country, among the most beneficial of which he classed the public library, now considered indispensable even in the small town, which will have a traveling library even if it cannot afford a permanent one. It is a pleasing thought that in these country and social centers, boys and girls are meeting with the army of noble men who through their written words have helped to develop the world's life. One of the best adjuncts of a library is its reading room, where young people gather to read and study. "Turning to Dr. A. L. Damon, one of the trustees, Mr. Jennings presented the key of the building in behalf of the heirs of Mr. Cutler, the donor, expressing the fond hope that the building would be placed to the best uses. "Librarian Wilcox, the first speaker on the program, said that he could not see what he could add to the joy of those who were now about to enjoy the use of this beautiful building. He said that the happiness, comfort and joy of a good library can only be known by those who have experienced it; this is an unfailing blessing lasting from early days until the close of life. Mr. Wilcox then pictured what North Wilbraham will be 50 years from now, on the occasion of another centennial anni- versary. In closing the speaker said that he knew that every librarian in the state will be thrilled as he reads that another small town is rejoicing in the progress of its library, entering into a building of its own. He said that North Wilbraham was indeed fortunate, for not all larger places are equally blessed; for example, his own town did not have a library building of its own until it had attained a population of 40,000. " Miss Ida F. Farrar, assistant at the Springfield City library, brought greetings from the Springfield library and told of the benefits derived from libraries in some of the towns that she had visited. She advised the children to look forward in appreciation of what the library might do for them. "Rev. Mr. Legg Applauded "Rev. H. F. Legg of Wilbraham Center created applause by his fervid sentiment that 'Wilbraham is the best town in the best state of the best country in the world.' He said that he was more proud each day of the fact that he lived in Wilbra- ham and he was thoroughly confident that a bright future awaited the new library. "Rev. William R. Newhall has many friends in Wilbraham through his long and successful connection with the academy The History of Wilbraham 345 and was heard with pleasure. In opening his address on ' The Place of the Library in the Country Town,' Dr. Newhall expressed his delight to be home again and to look back over the old trails with his friends and former neighbors. He said HENRY CUTLER. that he thanked God that the history of a New England town is always essentially a religious history and instanced as one of the best types of a New England town, the late Henry Cutler, donor of the library, whose compact figure, keen eye, pleasant smile and kindly sympathy, he said came before him. He was a good neighbor and a public spirited citizen and this 346 The History of Wilbraham library, his gift, this 'house by the side of the road' was like himself, a friend to all the land. " Coming to his subject. Dr. Newhall said he was glad of that most New England institution, the country town. He loved the country, he said, and particularly old Wilbraham, which decorated with her 150 years, never looked so beautiful. The public library is to have a permanent place here because the country town is to have a permanent place in the land. The great changes that have come are not altogether for the worse nor peculiar to the town. True the children who play over the stone wall perchance now speak a language learned over the sea and everywhere there is change, but the immigrant is our guest, and is to be welcomed. The country town will be able to maintain its place. For example Wilbraham has main- tained in the 150 years of her existence certain institutions indispensable to a free people — the school which stands for instruction, the church which stands for righteousness, the state which stands for rights and the home which stands for affection. Here, the speaker referred to the leadership of the veteran pastor. Rev. Mr. Howard and his leadership in righteousness. "The library is the institution of intelligence. It does not compete with the church, the school, the town meeting, the home. The library in modem life is an indispensable institu- tion; it is not the fifth wheel in the coach but like the fifth wheel in the auto, it must necessarily be provided. All four institutions reach their best life as the library is opened. The library does largely help the schoolhouse. It reaches out a helping hand to the school and as the pupil reads the best books he wins promotion in study. The library helps the home and the man who studies books along his line of work is fitting himself thereby for a higher, more lucrative position. "Library a Yankee Notion "Tracing the growth of the library. Dr. Newhall reminded that the modem library is a Yankee notion and the effort of Benjamin Franklin in Philadelphia to start a real library for the good of the people was described and praised. Libraries were scarce indeed up to 1800 and about that date in Hartford gifts for a public library were asked because books helped and should be circulated. The American library leads the world and two great words stand out prominently in its vocabulary — accessibility and accountability. The History of Wilbraham 347 "In closing Dr. Newhall said that while the North Wilbra- ham library was not a pretentious building and not crowded with books, it was a modem library and better fitted to quicken the intelligence than the old libraries such as were found on the banks of the Nile. "At 12 o'clock in a large tent across from the library the Barr catering company served dinner to about 200 persons, and at 2 o'clock Prof. J. T. Bowne spoke on 'The Indians of Wil- braham.' In his address- Dr. Bowne used as illustrations for accurate descriptions of the implements and articles made by the Indians, a large case of collections of Indian relics gathered for the most part by B. F. Greene of Wilbraham, who for many years has been collecting curiosities of this character. Dr. Bowne described the life that the Massachusetts Indian led nearly 300 years ago along the old Bay path where he had his villages or camps. An interesting description of a journe}^ undertaken by John Winthrop, Jr., from Boston westward in 1645 was given, and the kindliness of the Indians met with. Their houses or huts, apparel, ornaments, food, utensils, weapons, hospitality to strangers were all accurately portrayed and also the astonishment with which they must have witnessed the evidences of civilization as given by the whites. "Cantata is Given "A large crowd assembled at 3 o'clock to witness the beauti- ful cantata, 'The Flower Queen,' by 30 young girls, all prettily attired in gay costumes and carrying flowers of the season. The cantata was given on the spacious grounds adjoining the home of Mr. and Mrs. H. W. Cutler and Mrs. Cutler was in charge of the cantata, which was a inost complete success. A young woman representing a recluse disgusted with the world was depicted as finding in a garden where fragrant flowers grew, helpful lessons of unselfishness and purity. As the young woman beheld the crowning of the queen of the flowers she was led to see that true preferment comes unsought and through service to others. Esther Bell was the May queen, Verena Griswold took the part of the recluse, and Mrs. Alice Hoyt was mistress of ceremonies. Among those impersonating the flowers were Esther Calkins as a dandelion ; Edith Roberts the crocus; Mrs. Lillian Dickinson, the lily; Ruth Bell a violet; Dora LaBroad, the sunflower; Mrs. Ethel Bradway, the chrysanthemum, while many little girls acted the parts of poppies and fairies. 348 The History of Wilbraham "The loan exhibit which was held in the library all day, while naturally not as large as the one seen in Wilbraham the day previous, was large and decidedly interesting, completely filling three rooms on the ground floor. There was a sideboard handed down in the Warren family from Col. John Bliss, who was bom in 1727, a fireplace presented to the library by Aiiss E. O. Beebe, pots and kettles of old-fashioned make, many articles belonging to Mrs. W. F. Morgan, tapestry coverlets, school books, bills of ancient date, old trunks, guns, china, pictures, pikes carried by John Brown's men, medicine chest, wearing apparel, and Indian-made buckskin coat loaned by Miss Beebe, kitchen utensils, chairs, chests and old looms. "Among those who contributed to make the exhibit such a success were Mrs. Maria Baldwin, the Woodward family, G. M. Greene, Mrs. N. I. Bradwav, the Collins familv, Mrs. A. L. Bell, Mrs. D. C. Griswold, Mrs. H. M. Green, Mrs. Stephen Fiske, Mrs. Carlos Alden, J. M. Perry, Mrs. Emma A. Mowry, Mrs. C. F. Fuller, Lila Atchinson and others." THIRD DAY OF CELEBRATION Veterans Unveil Massive Boulder Wilbraham Pays Tribute tc War Heroes in Closing Day's Exercises FINE LOAN EXHIBIT Beebe Collection in Old Mixter Tavern Attracts Manv Visitors "Wilbraham, June 20, 1913 — Glendale with its grassy glen and dale, its historic church, ancient homes near by, gay with bunting, and its massive boulder, on which were lettered in bronze the names of its war heroes, presented a scene not soon to be forgotten. To add to the charm of the picture a goodly The History of Wilbraham 349 company of Civil war veterans came to lift the Stars and Stripes from their comrades' monument, school children from district No. 7 sang, and recited patriotic selections, or assisted in the pageant and a large number of former residents by their kindly words of greeting helped to give a real old home character to the celebration. Springfield, the mother of Wilbraham, was well represented by Dr. Marshall Calkins, a former resident, who though 85 years old in a few days, is wonderfully well preserved, and by William R. Sessions, also formerly of Wil- braham. There were many from Springfield drawn to the celebration by ties of kinship. Many distinguished men and women have come from Glendale. Close by on the Munsell place was bom Chief Justice Marcus P. Knowlton, and Dr. Calkins was born very near the humble district school. Many others might be mentioned who, now scattered widely, are proud to acknowledge Glendale as their birth place, as their letters of regret read by Miss Beebe after dinner testified. "The exercises of the morning opened at 11 o'clock at the boulder with selections by the local band. Then the school children of district No. 7 assisted by A. M. Seaver and Miss F. M. Moore, teacher of No. 7, sang a welcome. B. F. Greene, the presiding officer, said that he wished to thank the women especially for their part in furnishing meals and in other ways encouraging the men of the neighborhood in getting out the boulder and in setting it in place. Rev. W. L. Jennings offered prayer and as the two flags that covered the boulder were lifted the children sang 'The Star Spangled Banner.' "The first speaker to be introduced was William R. Sessions, who expressed his regret that Dr. George Fuller of Monson, who was to have given an address, was ill. "Mr. Sessions said in part: 'This is the 150th anniversary of the incorporation of the old town of Wilbraham. You people of Glendale have arranged to celebrate the time by a neighbor- hood observance and have coupled with it the unveiling of a tablet to the memory of soldiers of the war that gave to these United States their independence, and also of the soldiers of the war that preserved the union of states. This is certainly a wise and patriotic arrangement. Wilbraham has always been conspicuous for its readiness to do its full share in the support of the government, particularly in the time of war. " 'At the time of the old French war the neighborhood furnished a generous quota of men. Twenty years afterward 350 The History of Wilbraham UNVEILING BOULDER. SOLDIERS' BOULDER AT GLENDALE. The History of ^YILBRAHA^I 351 when the town was only 12 years old came the war of the Revolution. At least 36 men of Wilbraham turned out on a minute's notice at the Lexington alarm and marched on foot to the scene of conflict. More than 50 marched to the Bennington alarm. Wilbraham had in 1860 a population of 2081 : she sent to the war 223 men or just about one soldier for each nine inhabitants. These 223 men from Wilbraham were 26 in excess of all calls, so that when the war closed this town had furnished all the men called for by the government and had a credit of 26 already in the service. The town with a valuation of $842,000 expended $25,000 for war purposes. Besides the $25,000 expended by the town there were large sums raised bv women's soldiers' aid societies. " 'In this hasty manner I have tried to give an idea of conditions during the Civil war. The w^ar was in full blast at the time of the centennial of Wilbraham 50 years ago and little space was given to it in the historical address on that occasion; hence I have deemed this effort to be not out of ]3lace.' "Referring to some of the men from Wilbraham who have been most conspicuous, Mr. Sessions first instanced John Bliss, who came into Wilbraham from Longmeadow about the year 1750, served in the old French war, was selectman many terms, member of the provincial Congress, representative in the General Court, judge of the court of common pleas and had a fine Revolutionary war record. Col. Bliss has only one descendant living in Wilbraham. One of his daughters married the first minister of the South parish, Rev. Moses Warren, and Fred A. Warren of North Wilbraham is his great-great-grand- son. Mr. Bliss left no son but one of his daughters married Edward Morris, whose son. Judge Oliver B. Morris of Spring- field, the long time judge of probate for Hampden County, was John Bliss' grandson and Henry Morris, son of Oliver B. Morris, who was judge of Mass. court of common pleas, was his great-grandson. George Morris, son of Oliver B., who was clerk of courts of this county for many years, was his great- great-grandson. He served as clerk of courts until his death, when he was succeeded by his son, the present clerk of courts, Robert O. Morris, who is a great -great-grandson of John Bliss of Wilbraham. E. B. Maynard was born in Wilbraham and ser\'ed for years as judge of the superior court. " 'Our most conspicuous real son,' said Mr. vSessions, 'is 352 The History of Wilbraham Marcus P. Knowlton, who was bom in this neighborhood of Wilbraham, of Wilbraham bom parents. He was for 3'ears a justice of the superior court, promoted to the supreme court and then to be chief justice.' " Dr. Marshall Calkins whose name is a household word with Glendale people, followed, and in a short address showed how fitting it is that nations should honor their dead with monu- PI c^ %-v V X y DR. MARSHALL CALKINS. ments. He closed by reading a list of the names of the soldiers from Glendale as they appear on the boulder. "Dr. Marshall Calkins' Speech "Dr. Calkins said: 'The study of evolution and history shows a gradual progress during thousands of years and the most intelligent peoples have erected monuments and artistic tombs to perpetuate the memories of those who have been of The History of Wilbraham 353 great ser\'ice to their country. Monuments as well as history show that the English people have been in the advance. In colonizing they have the best success— in the Western hemi- sphere the Pilgrim and Puritan have shown their mental and phvsical superiority— this fact is shown by our genealogy at the present time, as most of our ancestors and soldiers are descendants of the English and Anglo-Saxon stock. Heredity shows its power. The names on our boulder are reliable witnesses. Most of them are descendants of the Puritans and trace their pedigree back to periods between the 12th and 18th centuries As illustrative fact, the number of soldiers serving in our wars under the Calkins name is 430 during our short history. This fact is established by the military records. No doubt under other names the proportion of soldiers to popula- tion may be even greater. The names on our boulder show this probability'.' ANTI-SL.WERY DEMONSTRATION. "Anti-Sl.wery Demonstration "The children then sang 'The Prison Cell' and as they were closing, the audience was surprised to see coming down the hill pursued by men, old time slaves, who, just as they were about to be seized bv their masters, were rescued by Glendale people and borne away in safetv. This was intended to typify The History of Wilbraham 355 just such scenes as occurred in the North 60 3^ears ago when Glendale was said to be a famous underground railroad station. Then there were recitations and more singing by the children, and at 12 o'clock the women of Glendale served a most excellent dinner in the church, which was partaken of by 200 people. Miss E. O. Beebe was toastmistress at the after-dinner speaking and among those who spoke briefly were representatives of the Connecticut Valley Historical society, former residents, the resident pastors and summer guests. "Original poems were read by Mrs. J. E. T. Dowe and Mrs. Edith Miniter of Boston, and many letters of regret were read by Miss Beebe. "Fine Exhibition of Antiques "Following the exercises in the church a large number of the visitors present repaired to the old Mixter tavern, a mile up the road, where was displayed from 2 to 8 o'clock what William F. Adams, president of the Connecticut Valley Historical society pronounces one of the best exhibits of its kind in the state. Indeed, as an illustration of the life of the common people in the olden time it is undoubtedly the best in Massachusetts. The collection bears the name of the Beebe collection, named for Miss E. O. Beebe, who for years has been treasuring antiques used and passed on by her ancestors. At the time of Spring- field's 275th anniversary Miss Beebe kindly loaned her collec- tion to the Connecticut Valley Historical society as a part of its notable exhibit in the First church parish house. "The exhibit yesterday was so large that it occupied prac- tically the entire space in five large rooms and the piazza. One room was filled with rare old china, another with needle craft, while in a chamber upstairs was displayed articles in use in a home of the year 1830. The articles on the veranda all came from the attic. In the first or china room stood a long table on which was arranged old china in the order of its date or years of service. Here were seen old wooden utensils used in Wilbraham, stag horn sets, specimens of wedding dishes, such as the wedding china of John and Lucia Calkins. The collec- tion of Ludlow bottles is probably the best in the state. In the typical living room of 75 years ago there could scarcely be found anything that was modem. The fireplace with its ancient foot stoves and warming pans, was decidedly unique, and scattered about the room were the Beebe coat of arms worked here and there, an old sampler of 1793, a Hancock's 358 The History of Wilbraham Bible sent in by a gentleman living at a distance, a replica of a lady's sewing table, charts dating long ago, and more china. "In an old closet was glassware of every description; this was fitted up with furnishings from an old Wilbraham house. In one of the upstairs rooms was a fine rare collection of old almanacs and anti-slavery documents. A chair near by con- tained a full gentleman's costume of the old time, with tall hat, vest, gloves, necktie and collar. On a large, curious bed was arranged a young woman's costume of 75 years ago. "The replica of a room of 1830 contained an old-fashioned high bed, rag carpet, wax flowers, and on the bed referred to, the entire costume of an old-time lady. The tables here and all through the house were draped in homespun and old-time fabrics used as backgrounds. "The piazza was perhaps the most interesting of all, and here were arranged various curiosities, many hardly under- stood by the present generation, such as a bee smoker for driving out bees, queer reels and wheels, strange appearing cradles, a pedler's trunk, a picture painted by Miss Brewer, second preceptress of the academy, a large bread trough in which children could be rocked in case of emergency, queer lanterns, ladies' caps and sHppers, baskets and unique examples of the photographer's art. "The Mixter tavern," where the exhibit was held and in which Miss Beebc makes her home, is nearly as ancient as the treasures that it holds and admirably adapted for the purpose. "Miss Beebe was assisted in her explanation of the antiques by Mrs. Edith Miniter of Boston." And so, the three days' celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Incorporation of the Town of Wilbraham was brought to a close. Almost perfect weather prevailed throughout the entire time, and not an accident marred the occasion. FRED W. GREEN, 1896 AND SINCE. ALLYN M. SEAVER. ALBERT A. PHELPS. SELECTMEN OF WILBRAHAM. 360 The History of Wilbraham FARMS AND HOMES OF WILBRAHAM Followin<; is a list of the homesteads of the town, in their order, on the different roads and crossroads. The names of present owners are given, also those of former owners, beginning with the latest, and continuing in their order to the earliest, so far as we have been able to ascertain them. A dash will indicate that some names are miknown to us. There are four roads running north and south through the town, nearly parallel with each other and about one mile apart. To assist in readily locating these places, we will call the most westerly road, the one running along Stony Hill, West Street; the next one east, Main Street; the next one east, along the top of the mountain. Ridge Road; and the one still further east. East Street. We have not been able to obtain the names of many of the "Former owners" of the places. Main Street, Going South Beginning on the east side of the street at the vSoldiers' Monument, which is practically the exact centre of the town. 1. Monument Lot. Owned by the town, with conditions. Former owners: James B. Crane of Dalton, Chauncey E. Peck, John Brewer, Gains Brewer, . The John Brewer house, which stood just south of the monument, was burned about 1875. The monument was erected in 1894 by the kindly munificence of Mrs. Lucia S. Foskit. Just south of the monument lot was a store, kept for several years, about 1860-75, by Clinton C. Leach. South of that, and north of the lane (formerly called "Burt's Lane"), is the cellar hole, which marks the site of the Allis House, where a hotel was kept for a number of years by Mrs. E. M. Allis, also by Mr. James P. Brown. 2. A few reds from Main Street, on "Burt's Lane," is the liverv stable and office of the stage line which connects the The History of Wilbraham 361 centre village with the railroad line. The stage line and stable, are now owned by Fred W. Green, who also ownes the two lots last mentioned. The stage line business was formerly owned by W. L. Collins. 3. "Burt's Lane" (subjeet to some rights of way), and also the two lots in front of the livery stable and horse sheds are now owned by the North Parish of Wilbraham, which is the legal name of the First Congregational Church Society. CONGRFXiATIONAL CHURCH ERECTED IN 1912. 4. First Congregational Church. Erected in 1912-13 and dedicated May 11, 1913. The entire cost of the building, including organ and furniture was about $17,000. This building was erected to replace the one which was struck by lightning and destroyed by fire on the afternoon of July 5, 1911, and is the fourth meeting house on that location. The one preceding it was erected in 1877, to replace one that was destroyed by fire, through the act of an irresponsible boy, on June 24 of that year, and which was built in 1857. The first meetinghouse was erected on Wigwam Hill in 1747-8, and was moved on to this ground in 1794, where it was used for 362 The History of Wilbraham public worship until 1857, when it was moved on to the ground now occupied by the livery stable and converted into a barn. It served the useful purpose to shelter beasts for twenty years and was burned, with four dwelling houses, in the conflagration of 1877. One of the dwelling houses, which stood north of the present church, about where the road leads into the horse sheds, had been used for many years as a store and postofiice by R. R. Wright, Roderick Burt, Pliny Cadwell, Mrs. Hempstead, and others. In 1906 the Parish purchased the lot south of the church, formerly occupied by the dwelling of Monroe Pease, which was burned in 1902. Former owners: Monroe Pease, 1873, L. B. Bliss, 1865, S. Foskit, and others. A meat market and store was kept there for a few years about 1890. 5. West side of street, now owned by Mrs. Mary B. Gumey. Former owners: Heirs of E. B. Brewer, Edwin B. Brewer, William Brewer, Jr., William Brewer, Isaac Brewer, who was the first settler of that name in town. In May, 1746, the Precinct "Voated and granted to Isaac Brewer, att the Rate of three pounds, old tenor per year, for the use of his Chamber to Gary on the publick worship in." It was used for that purpose in 1746-7-8. There is a stone in the underpinning; on the north side of the house, with the date "Ocf 2, 1748," cut in it. The house was also used for a tavern, probably until about the time of the death of Isaac Brewer in 1788. 6. Now owned by Mrs. Lucia S. Foskit, who inherited it from her husband Stebbins Foskit, M.D. Fomier owners: Ralph W. Allen, 1865, George Bishop, S. A. and Elizabeth Gushing, Elizabeth Hale, E. B. Brewer, , Isaac Brewer. 7. Opposite Gongregational Ghurch, owned by Mrs. Martha G. Munsell, inherited from her husband Elijah Munsell, who purchased it in 1889 from Asa Bushnell. Sold by former owners as follows; James Luke in 1860^ Mark Trafton in 1858, James W. Mowry in 1857, R. R. Wright in 1851, Pliny Gadwell in 1839, Ebenezer Brown in 1826, heirs of Dr. Joel Lyman in 1819, Rachel and Elijah Work in 1803, Jonathan Merrick in 1801, William King, Jr., in 1779, Gharles Brewer in 1778, Luke Bliss The History of Wilbraham 363 and Z. Parsons in 1777, Enoch Chapin purchased it in 1760, David Chapin in 1733. 8. The Foskit Memorial Grange Hall. Owned by Wilbraham Grange No. 153, Patrons of Husbandry. The site for the building was purchased from Mrs. Munsell in 1900. The hall, above the foundation, was built and furnished by Mrs. Lucia S. Foskit as a memorial to her deceased husband, Stebbins Foskit, M.D., and was dedicated to its present use February 27, 1901. It is used, every other year, for town meetings, and for many purposes of a social character, and is a welcome addition to our public buildings. REV. MARTIN S. AND MRS. HOWARD. Mr. Howard was Pastor of the Congregational Church for 43 years. On September 26, 190.5, a large company assembled in the Congregational Chapel to join w-Uh thenT in celebrating their Golden Wedding .\nniversary. I msert a few verses from a poem written for the occasion, illustrative of their work here. He, to tell of the Redeemer, Who was slain by sinner's hate; She, to hold his hands up longer. When the burden seemed too great. 364 The History of Wilbraham He, to pour the oil of comfort On the wounded hearts of men; She, lay gentle ministrations, To relieve the smart of pain. So together they have journeyed, Through the length of fifty years, Cheering up the weaker-hearted. Changing into trust some tears. 9. The Deacon Warriner Parsonage. Owned by Congrega- tional Society. North Parish of Wilbraham. Purchased by the Parish in 1868, and has been occupied by their pastor, Rev. Martin S. Howard, for forty-five years. Purchased by previous owners as follows; George L. Felton, 1858, Ralph Glover, 1855, George Bishop, 1851, Samuel Leach, 1834, who is supposed to have built the present house. In 1890, the Parish "voted that the Parsonage shall be named the Dea. Warriner Parsonage, in honor of the first donor of money to the Parish." The lot originally contained about fifteen acres. 10. Just south of the Warriner Parsonage. House now owned by Edward M. Stephens. This place includes a large part of the land which was purchased by the North Parish in 1868, and was sold to Horace Clark and others in 1869. Other owners: H. E. Miller, Chas. D. Woods and H. A. Morgan, Horace Clark, who built the present house about 1870. 11. On east side of street, now owned by John Molloy. Former owners: M. H. Lvons, heirs of Harriet E. Pease, Mixter, 12. East side of street, owned by Mrs. William A. Newton. Former owners. Wells L. Phelps, Mrs. Amelia S. Phelps, , Luther B. Bliss, who built the present house about 1855. It was used for a store and postoffice and also for a residence. The store and postoffice, also his residence, having previously been in the old schoolhouse which stood just south of the present house. This school district was No. 2. until 1842, when it was divided, and district No. 12 established. I have been informed The History of Wilbraham 36,5 that there were about 65 scholars who attended the school. The new sehoolhouse in district No. 2 was built a little north of the present stone church, and that in the new district No. 12 was erected about half a mile further south. It is the house now owned by Rev. Josiah G. Willis. I attended school there. The old sehoolhouse, which had also served as a store and postoffice, was moved across the street onto land now owned bv Edward M. vStephens, converted into a dwelling and was occupied by tenants until 1869, when it was removed to the THE MERRICK ELM. Standing about 20 rods east of Main Street, and about 8 rods south of the road leading to the Woodland Dell Cemetery, in the mowing now owned by M. C. Wade. Girth 18 feet and 63^2 inches, at five feet above the ground. The view is to the northwest, showing Congregational church in the background. north side of Springfield Street, and is now occupied by Frank Sweatland. Owned by Rice. 13. Owned by Richard J. Sackett. Former owners: Dr. H. G. Webber, heirs of Edmund Jones, Edmund Jones, who l^uilt the present house, probably about 1850. 14. Owned by Marshall C. Wade, who purchased it about 1894. Former owners: John M. Merrick, his father, John 366 The History of Wilbraham Merrick, his father, Lieut. Jonathan Merrick, his father, Dea. David Merrick, who settled there about 1735. The house was used for a tavern for many years. John M. Merrick was licensed as an "Innholder" in Wilbraham in 1840 and probably later. HOME OF CLARENCE M. RIPLEY. 15. On east side of street, just south of the brook. Owned by Mrs. Isabel Ripley. Former owners: Rev. James Sutherland, Jane A. Lilley (Twing), Rufus Twing, who probably built the house. 16. Now owned by George E. Knowlton. Former owners: Mrs. Julia Knowlton, Nancy Pease, Jacob Neff, Warner- The History of Wilbraham 3.67 The house was probably built by Warner. It is just north of former "Meeting House Lane." 17. Just north of the road to Monson, now owned by Jane E. Hancock. Former owners: Moses Hancock, who purchased the place in 1840, WilHam Twing, Benj. Fuller, 1831, Asa Fuller, , Ezra Barker, 1752 to 1777. The Fullers kept a tavern here from about 1831 to 1838, which was burned. 18. On west side of street. Marble shop, now owned by M. C. Wade. Formerly owned by George W. Lilly, who built the shop and carried on the business of marble cutting, erecting gravestones, etc., for about twenty years, until about 1883. The shop has been used for storage purposes for more than twenty years. 19. Blacksmith shop. Formerly owned and carried on by Rufus Twing for many years, until about 1882. It is now o^vned by Elias S. Keyes, and used for storage of lumber. 20. East side of street, south of road to Monson. Now ownied by Myron L. and Mrs. Laura Bruucr. Inherited from Myron Bruuer, who inherited it from his father, Dr. Luther Bruuer, who j^rrchased the place in 1824. The present house was built about 1835. Former owners: Jonathan Dwight, George Bliss, Joseph Sexton in 1791, David Shearer, Gabriel Bumham, Abel King, Phineas Newton, Jr., Phineas Newton, Simeon Willard. In 1791, the North Parish "Voted that the Meeting House be set on the south side of Joseph Saxton's lot in the Street." Probably the intended location was near this house. 21. A little south of Biaiucr place. Now owned by Mrs. Josephine (Bliss) Johnson, of Providence, R. I. Former owners: Mrs. Rowera Bliss, L. Stowell, Rev. Moulton. 22. A little south of Johnson place. Now owned by George W. HulmiCS. Former owners: Lyman Fisk. Henry C. Frost, Henry Dewey, , H. Bridgman Brewer, who built the present house about 1856. 368 The History of Wilbraham 23. On west side of street, a little south of Brewer's pond. Now owned by William Butler. Former owners: Mrs. Frances Davis, Otis K. Ladd, , Rev. John Bowers, who lived here while he was pastor of the Congregational church, 1837-1855. 24. East side of street, now owned by Albro J. Bryant. Former owners: Mrs. Agnes McCaw, Schoonmaker, , William Twing, William Gilbert, who inherited the place from his father-in-law. Dr. Gideon Kibbe, whose father, Capt. Gideon Kibbe, built the house about 1810, on land purchased from M. K. Bartlett. Dr. Kibbe lived here and practiced his profession for about fifty years. 25. Now owned by Mrs. Mary (Howard) Green. Former owners: C. P. Bolles, Gilbert Warfield, R, J. Conboy, Rev. Franklin Fisk, Horace Clark, Mrs. Mary A. Brewer, S. Jenks, William Knight, Esq., , Daniel Warner, who was the third person who settled in town, and whose daughter, Comfort, bom, March 15, 1734, was the first white child bom here. It was on these grounds that the ordination services of the Rev. Noah Merrick were to have been held, June 24, 1741, but the rain prevented. Here also the first postoffice in Wilbraham was established, William Knight, Esq., postmaster, and the door leading from the hall into the front room, still shows the place where letters could be dropped in when the office was closed. A few rods south of this house, "Federal Lane" leads off to the east. 26. .Now owned by William T. Eaton who built the present house on the site of one burned about 1880. Former owners: James M. King, , Joseph McGregory, Rev. Daniel Lee, S. Holman, Elijah Work and others. The first principal of Wesleyan Academy, Rev. Wilbur Fisk, lived here in the Elijah Work house. 27. Now owned by Mrs. William Thompson. Former owners: Mrs. Abby S. Knight, Lawton, Stephen Utley, who kept a tavem there, probably about 1814-1849. Rev. Ezra Witter who was pastor of the Congregational church, 1797 to 1814, The History of Wilbraham 360 probably built the house. He kept a private school there. There is some hand carving in the finish of the north front room, which is said to have been done by him. 28. Now owned by Delbert H. Eaton. Former owners: Elias S. Keyes who built the present house, about 1890, on the site of one burned, which formerly belonged to H. Bridgman Brewer, who lived there for some years about 1850. Former owner, Maj. Wm. Clark. 29. Now owned by Rev. Josiah G. Willis. Former owners: George Summers, Mrs. Francis J. Warner. This house was the schoolhouse in District No. 12, from about 1842 to about 1880. It had a hall on the second floor which was sometimes used for social gatherings. 30. Now owned by Thomas H. Nims. Former owners: Mrs. James O. Martin, Chauncey E. Peck, Mrs. Nellie M. Scofield, who inherited it from her mother, Mrs. Sarah Mears, Mrs. Merrick, , Noah Warriner, who inherited it by the will of Dea. Nathaniel Warriner, who had no children. Deacon Warriner located here about 1734, and was the fourth settler. He kept a tavern in the house. (See history for further details.) 31. Ten or fifteen rods south of the Deacon Warriner home- stead is a cellar hole which marks the site of the first house erected in the territory now known as Wilbraham. Here Nathaniel Hitchcock erected his log cabin in 1730, which was occupied by his family the following year. Here, Dr. Samuel F. Merrick lived for many years and I suppose his daughter, Abigail, went from here to join the "Merry Making" at the house of Levi Bliss in 1799, when she, with the six young persons were drowned in Nine Mile Pond. Probably Polly Warriner, who was drowned at the same time, lived in the next house north (now owned by Mr. Nims), as her father, Noah Warriner inherited that place by the will of Dea. Nathaniel Warriner in 1780. The house which formerly stood here was a fine specimen of colonial architecture. It was burned about 1875. The land is now owned bv Thomas H. Nims. 370 The History of Wilbraham 32. Eight or twelve rods south, is another cellar hole, which marks the site of a house which was burned about 1892. The land is now owned by Lee W. Rice. Former owners: Mrs. Miller, J. Oakes, James Robinson, Town of Wilbraham, perhaps — King. 33. On east side of street. Now owned by heirs of George W. Pease, inherited from his father, Reuben Pease, who carried on the shoe-making business there in a little shop which stood on the northwest comer of the lot. He made my first pair of boots. He was librarian for School District No. 12, and kept the books in his shop. A few of them may still be found in town. 34. On west side of street. Now owned by L. L. Stone. Former owners : Frederick and Edward Merrick, who inherited it by the will of Lorenzo Bliss, who inherited it from his father Pynchon Bliss, who purchased it from the heirs of Solomon Warriner, and may have inherited it partly from his wife Betsey, who was a daughter of Solomon Warriner, who was a son of Capt. James Warriner, who may have lived on this place. Solomon Warriner was librarian of a library in operation here in 1781. (See history.) 35. On east side of street. Now owned by John A. Calkins. Former owners: Smith, Watrous, Soule, John S. Albray, , Henry Burt, •, Noah Alvord, who located here about 1732, and was the second settler here. 36. On west side of street. The stone house. Now owned by Charles S. and Fannie M. Merrick, who inherited it from their father James Merrick. Former owners; Roderick Burt, Moses Burt, who built the house about 1830, Moses Burt Sr., who located here about 1740, or earlier. 37. Now owned by heirs of Samuel F. Merrick, who built the stone bam about 1854. The house was built later. The north line of this farm is the north line of the overplus land in the second division, which is said to be 82 rods wide and extends south, probably to the north line of the Henry D. Foskit place. The History of Wilbraham 371 38. On east side of street, just north of the "Green," now owned by Mrs. Addie (Cadwell) Speight. Inherited from her father Henry Cadwell. East of Mrs. Speight's place, on the north side of the " Green," there were two or three houses about 1840-1870, which were THE "MILE TREE." A black oak tree, about one mile south of the Soldiers' Monument. When the selectmen of Springfield altered the road "running east & west near the rev--'*'~*'^ ■■ '" """'gBMB .m m WM VIEW OF MAIN STREET. Looking North from in front of Soldiers' Monument. First building on the right, FostofEce and store of F. C. Newton. A little further along, may be seen the front of original M. E. Church. First on the left, home of C. E. Peck. Second, M. E. Parsonage. 3. On east side of street, store and postofhce. Now owned by F. C. Newton. Former owners: F. A. Gumey, heirs of C. M. The History of Wilbraham 377 Pease, Charles M. Pease, who built the store in 1888 which has been much enlarged by Mr. Gumey. On the southwest comer of the store lot, there was a shoemakers shop for many years, and in it, Lorenzo Hancock estabhshed the postoffice, when he was appointed postmaster by the Lincoln administration in 1861. I have been there for mail. In 1888 the building was removed to the northeast comer of the Virgin lot, converted into a small bam, and is there now. The west side is painted red. Just north of this store, was the house of Rev. Charles N. Virgin, which he probably bmlt about 1830. It remained in his possession and that of his widow Lydia Virgin and her heirs, until about 1882. It was much used as a boarding place by students of the Academy, and was called "The Virgin Hollow Hotel." It is said that it may have been a "station" on the "Underground railroad." The house was tom down a few years ago. 4. On west side of Main Street, about ten or fifteen rods north of Springfield Street, first house north of Philhps' store, now owned by Chauncey E. Peck who built the present house in 1893, on the site of a house which was torn down, which is supposed to have been erected about 1740. Purchased by previ- ous owners as follows: Ira G. Potter, 1893, Luther Markham, 1869, Lucius Stowell, 1864, Dr. Jesse W. Rice, 1826, Charles Brewer, 1781, who kept an Inn there for many years. He was also a cabinet-maker, Eleazer Smith, 1770, Sergt. Daniel Cadwell, 1765, Samuel Wamer, by will of his father Ebenezer, "It being the lot whereon the said Samuel now lives," 1754, Ebenezer Wamer, 1732. Samuel Wamer, called "Clark Wamer" kept the record of births and deaths in this precinct, (now Wilbraham) beginning "March ye 15"^ 1734," to "August 28, 1783." Twelve days after the last entry, he laid down his pen forever. The record is still in existence. The two strange stones, in front of the house, were placed there in 1899. They were found lying down, in low wet ground, a little way up the mountain, in a northeasterly direction, near the "Lower Reservoir" of the Wilbraham Academy. IRA G. POTTER. Born at Willington, Conn., in 1815. Came from Monson to Wilbraham in 1S65. Served as Selectman, as special County Commissioner for six years, as Representative in the legislature, as special trial Justice, as Justice of the Peace for 42 years, and, as Executor or Administrator, settled one hundred and eleven estates in the Probate Court. He died in 1909, in his 94th year. HOME OF CHAUNCEV E. PECK. The History of Wilbraham 379 5. On east side of street opposite Mr. Peck's place, now owned by Frank A. Gumey. Former owners: Ira G. Potter, F. M. Miller, , B. F. Squire, Mrs. Frost, Charles Brewer, Jr., who was killed in 1853 (see History). His widow "Aunt Fanny Brewer," as she was familiarly called, lived here for about twenty years after the death of her husband, and had many students as boarders and roomers. The house was built by Rev. John W. Hardy about 1836 while he was Steward at the Academy. 6. On east side of street, the first house south of the road leading up the mountain, south of the stone church, now owned by Chauncey E. Peck. This house was the first Methodist meeting house in Wilbraham, and was built in 1793-94 and was occupied by the Methodists until about 1835. The ground on which the building stands, was owned by Charles Brewer, and was leased by him to the society for the consideration that the society should pay him ' ' one pepper-corn ' ' annually while they used it. It was purchased by different owners as follows: Chauncey E. Peck, 1908, William W. Merrick, 1841, Anson L. Brewer, 1835, Susan Brewer, 1829, Charles Brewer, 1781, Calvin Brewer, son of Charles, may have owned the place about 1825, and it was on this land, and on that on the west side of the street, where he wished the Academy to be located, and was much grieved when they selected another location. The house is now occupied by tenants, Mrs. Allis and Dr. H. G. Webber. 7. On west side of street, opposite the first Methodist Episcopal meeting house. Methodist parsonage, which was probably purchased by the Methodist Episcopal society about 1855. Former owners: Capt. A. S. Flagg, Dr. Jesse W. Rice and others. (See No. 4.) House built by S. F. Pickering about 1852. 8. A few rods east of Main Street, on the north side of the road leading up the mountain, just south of the stone 380 The History of Wilbraham church. House now owned by Miss Fannie M. Merrick. Former owners : Heirs of Henry and Horace Cadwell, Emeroy McGregory, who inherited it from his mother, Eunice Rice (McGregory) (Cadwell), who inherited it from her husband, James Rice. 9. On east side of street. The Stone Church of the Methodist Episcopal Society. Erected in 1868-69, at a cost of about $45,000 and dedicated in 1870. The meeting house which had served the society since 1835, being moved to the east, and converted into a music hall by the Wesley an Academy. Just north of the stone church was the schoolhouse of District No. 4, erected about 1842, burned about 1869. Just north of the schoolhouse was a house owned by Ezra White, which was burned about 1855. 10. On west side of street, opposite the stone church. Now owned by Fred W. Green. Former owners: Chauncey E. Peck, Sarah M. Taylor, Dr. Taylor, Mrs. Emily Work, Porter Cross Rev. Lorenzo White, Ezra White, Charles Warriner. ,>.^ J? >- ■.s. B '.\*. J^i i^^ ^:. WrW Pv ■ E m ¥^ 9B "^l^^^^^HSS , ^S^-i If 1^ ^MBMB , ^^^ ,,j,p— ™— iigmjgii MMIIIiuiJiya "^^^^^^^^HB* J^ia^^^^'~''^ — ; • -jc j^B HOME OF FRED W. GREEN. The History of Wilbraham 381 11. Store of Charles N. Mowry, first place south of Rich Hall. Former owners, Samuel F. Pickering, who built the buildings about 1855, and kept a store there until about 1870. 12. Rich Hall. The Academy Boarding House. Named in honor of Isaac Rich who contributed largely towards the expense of its erection. (See History.) On East side of street, opposite the north end of Rich Hall, and just south of the road leading up to Fisk Hall, was the home of Dr. John Stems in 1768 and later. This road was the town road from Main Street up to the Ridge Road, and was laid out in 1768. The road was changed to the present location, about 1824. 13. Faculty Street. This road was laid out by the town in 1764, and, according to the old record, is "to begin from the Road or Street that David Warriner lives upon, on the Main Road leading to Samuel Glovers,— on the North side of the Lot originally laid out to John Dorchester, (No. 96) Extending west across Cowpen Meadow Swamp." The road may have been relaid about 1854. 14. The Principal's House, Wilbraham Academy. The present house was built about 1856 to replace the original one which was built in 1827, and whidi was moved some rods to the west and converted into a Dormitory for the use of the students. 15. Now owned by Mrs. Sarina E. Godfrey. Inherited by the will of her nephew, Edward H. Brewer, who died in Dalton, Mass. in 1911. Inherited by him, from his mother, Anna Keyes Brewer. Inherited by her from her husband, Henry Burt Brewer. Partly inherited by him, from his mother Lo\nce Brewer. The present place being the widow's third set off to her from the estate of her husband, Henry Brewer, who pur- chased it in 1814 from Samuel Hale and his wife, Mindwell Hale. Former owners: William Buel and others. The tract then included original lots 92, 93, 94, 95 and was 24 rods, 8 feet. 382 The History of Wilbraham 4 inches wide, counting 16 feet to a rod, and lay on both sides of Main Street, and probably extended north to the south line of the present Hurd farm, formerly of Timothy Brewer. 16. Now owned by J. Herbert Starr. Former owners: Mrs. Mary Wheelwright, Prof. Charles M. Parker, who built the present house about 1880, and was a teacher at the Academy 1870-1885. 17. Owned by Miss Louise Manning Hodgkins, who is engaged in literar}^ work, and lectures to Colleges or Clubs, and has called the place "Fayre Houres." Former owners: Prof. Benjamin Gill, who was a teacher at the Academy for twenty years, 1872-1892. The house was built by James Luke about 1850, who lived there for several years. 18. Now owned by Mrs. Sarah W. Chapin. Former owners: Mrs. Hattie F. Bartlett, DeWitt Mowry, who inherited it from his father. Nelson Mowry, who lived there for many years, having purchased it from Samuel F. Pickering. About the time of the beginning of the Civil War, Mr. Mowry had a young colored man in his employ, who may have been a runaway slave, called Isack. A daughter of Calvin Brewer, who lived on Springfield Street, just beyond the first branch of Pole Bridge Brook, (where Mr. Chase lives now), had married a southern man named Newell, and lived in the south for several years with slaves to attend on her, until the death of her husband, when she returned to her old home. Her sympathy was with the South, and one day she hung out the confederate colors. Excitement ran high in the village, a crowd quickly gathered, rushed over to the house and pulled the colors down. A day or two later, she drove into Mr. Mowry's yard, and chanced to see Isack standing there, and asked who he was? Mr. Mowry gave an evasive reply, and Isack heard Mrs. Newell say "He looks like one of my boys." That night Isack disappeared, and was never seen by any of the Mowry family afterwards. Mrs. Newell had several of those arrested, who were engaged in The History of Wilbraham 383 THE NELSON MOWRY HOMESTEAD. Now home of Charles W. Chapin. tearing down the confederate flag, and a hearing was held in the basement of the Methodist Episcopal Church, but they were all discharged. 19. On east side of street, now owned by Charles L. Hubbard. Former owners: Samuel J. Goodenough, James Luke, who built the house about 1850. There is a story in connection with the building of this house. One day Mr. Luke took some boards up to Harris's saw mill in Ludlow, to have them cut up. When the work was done and he was about to pay the bill, he found his pocketbook was missing. There was $6,000 in it, and he hurried back along the road, asking all whom he met, if they had seen it. On the Old Bay Road, probably near where the electric road now passes over the railroad, he met a man who looked like a tramp, and asked him. The man replied that he had, and produced the pocketbook. After finding the contents were all there, Mr. Luke gave him $100. 384 The History of Wilbraham 20. On west side of street, opposite the Hubbard place. Now- owned by Mrs. Nancy M. Flagg who purchased the place in 1887. Former owners: Heirs of William E. Brewer, William E. Brewer, Mrs. Nancy (Bliss) Smith, Abel Bliss, who built the house about 1845, for his daughter, Mrs. Nancy Smith, who afterwards married a Dr. Rice and settled in the west. 21. North of the Flagg place, now owned by Theodore Gebrault. Former owners : Miss Harriet Bliss, Abel Bliss, who built the present house for his daughter Harriet, about 1846. The piazza is a recent addition. 22. On east side of street, now owned by Miss Emily Wright, who inherited it from her father Robert R. Wright, who pur- chased the place about 1868. Former owners: Isaac Plumley. The house was built and owned for a time by a Mr. Lane. 23. North of the Wright place, now owned by William G. Rogers, who purchased it of the town of Wilbraham about 1911. HOME OF WILLIAM G. ROGERS. ROBERT R. WRIGHT. Born in South Wilbraham in 1811. Came to Wilbraham Centre in 1839. Was a mer- chant here for 35 years. Trustee of Wesleyan Academy for 60 years. Died m 1906, aged 95 years. 386 The History of Wilbraham The building was erected in 1871 for a school house, and used as such until 1906, when the new schoolhouse on Springfield Street was occupied. Mr. Rogers has changed the appearance and arrangement of the building very much. 24. On west side of street, now owned by Mrs. Calvin G. Robbins. Former owners: Calvin G. Robbins, Mrs. Agnes McCaw, Mrs. A. S. Curtis. The house was built in 1891 by Chauncey E. Peck. 25. On west side of street, ten or fifteen rods from the same, with a lane or driveway leading to the house. Now owned by Mrs. L. R. Hurd and heirs of William Hurd. Former owners; Maria S. Robbins, Calvin G. Robbins, Myron A. Bliss, heirs of Timothy Brewer, Timothy Brewer who lived there for many years previous to 1870. The place may have been owned by Gains Brewer. The main street formerly ran close to this house, and on up the hill to the north, but was changed to the present location about 1840. 26. On east side of street, ten or fifteen rods from the same, with a lane or driveway leading to it is the house now owned by Mrs. Fannie Coote. Inherited from her husband John R. Coote who purchased the place about 1894 from Philip P. Potter, who built the house about 1878. 27. On west side of street opposite the carriage shop. Now owned by Mrs. Edna Gebo. Former owners: Chauncey E. Peck, who built the house about 1888. Much of the timber in this house was originally purchased for the Town Hall, which was begun early in 1886, but never finished. 28. On east side of street, opposite the Gebo house. Carriage and blacksmith shop, now owned by Theodore Gebeault (or Gebo). Former owners: Chauncey E. Peck who built the shop early in 1871, and carried on the carriage and wagon manufac- The History of Wilbraham 387 turing business there for 34 years. Much attention has been given to the repair of automobiles in recent years. 29. On west side of street, just north of Mrs. Gebo's house. Now owned by Mrs. Ellen M. Stephens, who inherited it from her husband James Stephens, who inherited from his sister Elizabeth Stephens, who inherited from her father Isaac Stephens. Former owners: Olds and others. 30. Now owned by William H. McGuire Sr. who has been engaged for several years in supplying coal to the townspeople, handling about 500 tons each year. Formerly owned b>- Mrs. Sophia Eustis, who was a daughter of Timothy Brewer, and very much interested in the "Millerite" movement, about 1850. Ten or twenty rods north of this house, on the east side of street, is a narrow lane, leading up to what was once called "Harmony Grove," where the Millerites, or Adventists, as they were afterwards called, held meetings in summer time. The grove has been cut down and the land recently set to peach trees. Now owned by Lee W. Rice. 31. Up on the hill just west of the street. Now owned by Mrs. Martha A. Day, who inherited the place from her father Isaac Brewer, who was a son of Timothy. For many years, until about 1906, Mrs. Day's husband, William H. Day, carried on the cider manufacturing business, in the large building on the east side of the street, opposite the house, on quite a large scale, but the business has now been abandoned. Fifteen or twenty rods north of Mrs. Day's house, on the north side of the hill and ten or fifteen rods west of the street, is the cellar hole, which marks the site of what was called the Hoyt place, once owned by George Hoyt. The house burned about 1876. The bam still standing, a little further to the west, was on the west side of the original Main Street, which formerly went over the top of the hill, until about 1840. 388 The History of Wilbraham MR. AND MRS. NATHAN C. RICE. (Nathan C. was a son of Mrs. Nancy B. Rice.) 32. Continuing on down the hill to the north, in the track of the old road, which is still plainly visible, is the small house now owned by James G. MacLain, who purchased it from Mrs. Eliza Rice in 1901, who inherited it from her husband, Nathan Rice, who inherited it from his mother Nancy Rice, who lived to be 101 years old. Nancy Rice purchased it in 1831 from Ruhamah Babcock, who purchased it in 1814 of Abel Bliss, Jr. It is reported that this was the first Methodist parsonage in town. A narrow lane now leads from the house to the street. On account of the large number of lilac bushes, the house has been called "Lilac Cottage." MRS. NANCV (BLISS) RICE. Born in Wilbraham in 1784, one of twelve children of Thomas and Temperance Bliss, who probably lived on the "Stebbins Road." Died August 10, 1886, aged 101 years, 8 months, and 26 days. I think the portrait was taken on her 100th birthday. Buried in Adams Cemetery. 390 The History of Wilbraham 33. On east side of street, now owned by Mrs. Sarah (Bliss) Gillet, who inherited the place from her father John Wesley Bliss, who inherited it from his father Abel Bliss 3d, who probably inherited it from his father, Abel Bliss 2nd, who pur- chased part of lots 65, 66, 67, 68, 69, 70, 71, 72, and 73 of Joseph Sikes in 1769, "bounded westerly upon Nathaniel Hitchcocks land near the Pine or Spruce Island, and easterly upon the top HOME OF MRS. SARAH (BLISS) GILLET. of the mountain called Hunting Hill, with house and bam thereon." Mrs. Gillet has a large number of old deeds and other papers, some of them dating back to 1733. She has the original lease which Charles Brewer gave to the methodist society of the ground on which their first meetinghouse was erected in 1794. She also has the contract which her grandfather made with Calvin Brewer and Wilbur Fisk, to build the Principal's House The History of Wilbraham 391 for $1490.00, in the year 1827. Former owners: Moses Bart- lett, Samuel Bartlett, , Jonathan Day. 34. On west side of street, now owned by Arthur F. Smith. Former owners: Mrs. Mary L. Lyman, O. S. Firman, Francis B. Firman, Hyde, Abraham Avery. Mr. Avery used the house for a harness shop, and probably it was here that the Presbyterian Saddle was made. 35. West side of street. Now owned by Albert W. Torrey. Former owners: Leon G. Bartlett, L. J. Potter, Ira G. Potter, who purchased it in 1865. Dexter Allis, L. M. Warren, S. S. Gilman, B. C. Gilman, Truman Kimpton, Abraham Avery and others. On the hill east of this place, a bungalow is being erected by Frank C. Learned. 36. Now owned by Mrs. Beatrice L. Millard. Former owners: Alden Knowlton, his mother Mrs. Nathaniel Knowlton, Nathaniel Knowlton, Buell, John Jones, Abraham Avery, who is said to have had his tannery a few rods west of the house. In 1861, Charles Buell lived here with his father. He was the first soldier who enlisted from Wilbraham. 37. On east side of street. Now owned by John H. Reader. Former owners: Mrs. F. A. Warren, W. L. Collins, Warren Collins, G. H. Calkins, Mrs. Wells, Rice, Rufus Jones. I have been told that there was an acqueduct to this house from a spring quite a distance to the east, and in the time of the Civil War, the price of lead was so high that the pipe was dug up and sold. 38. On west side of street. Now owned by Arthur A. Chilson. Former owners: Alvin Chilson, James Conners, C. S. Niles, David M. Havens, William Jones. 392 The History of Wilbraham OLD HOMESTEAD OF REV. JOSEPH A. MERRILL. Now owned by his granddaughter, Mrs. Rose (Merrill) Welch. 39. Now owned by Mrs. Rose (Merrill) Welch. Former owners : Joseph Merrill, Rev. Joseph A. Merrill, who built the house probably about 1830. He was a presiding Elder in the Methodist Episcopal Church for more than twenty-five years. He was one of the founders of the Wesleyan Academy here, and its third treasurer 1832-1842. His son Joseph Merrill was Librarian of the Methodist Episcopal Sabbath School for forty years, and it is said, never missed a Sunday. Three of his sons were ministers, and two of his daughters married ministers. One of the daughters of Joseph, married Rev. Henry E. Hempstead. He was a Chaplain in the Civil War, and died in the South soon after the battle of Fredricksburg, Dec. 13, 1862, and his widow Mrs. Hempstead, was appointed postmistress in Wilbraham. 40. On east side of street, opposite Mrs Welch's place. Now owned by heirs of Rev. Nathaniel J. Merrill. Former owners: The History of Wilbraham 393 REV. NATHANIEL J. MERRILL. Died in 1912, aged 95 years. The oldest man in Wilbraham at that time, and the oldest member of the New England Methodist Episcopal Confer- ence. He was a son of Rev. Joseph A. Merrill. Rev. Nathaniel J. Merrill, Joseph Merrill, who built the present house about 1850. 41. On west side of street. Now owned by Thomas J. Murphy who built the present house about 1896, on land purchased of W. L. Collins. 42. On west side of street. Now owned b}^ William V. Patch. Former owners: Mrs. Ellen (Munsell) Ricker, who inherited it 394 The History of Wilbraham HOME OF ANNIS MERRILL. Former home of Rev. Nathaniel J. Merrill. from her father, Willard F. Munsell, who purchased it in 1859, and lived there 47 years. Luther Fay purchased it in 1857, Robert R. Wright in 1852, Levi Bliss who inherited it from his father, Levi Bliss, who probably built the house about 1772. For in that year he bought of the town, the west half of the Ministry Lot in the Second Division, Lot No. 38, which was 37 rods, 4 feet wide, 16 feet to the rod, beginning at Main Street and extending west to the Inward Commons. This house was the home of Gordon, Leonard and Asenath Bliss, who with three other young people were drowned in Nine Mile Pond, April 29, 1799, and the bodies of the first five who were recovered from the waters were brought to this house. 43. Now owned by A. Linden Bell. Former owners : Merrick H. Cooley who built the house in 1886. 44. Now owned by William A. Mowry. Former owners: Henry Bhss, Frank Rindge, Joseph A. Parker, who built the house in 1886. The History of Wilbraham 305 45. Now owned by Robert P. Trask. Former owners : Henry La Broad, Henry Cutler, Lorenzo Bliss who built the house probably about 1810. 46. Now owned by the Cutler Co. who built the house about 1880, on land formerly owned by Lorenzo Bliss. The house is now occupied by Benj. Chase, and G. D. Keith who conducts a small store. 47. On east side of street, now owned by heirs of Dennis Powers, Dennis Powers, who built the house about 1881. SCHOOLHOUSE, DISTRICT NO. 8. 48. School House of District No. 8. Built by the town in 1905 at a total cost of a little more than S5,000, to replace one that was burned on the same ground which was built in 1879 at a total expense of $2,411.70. 396 The History of Wilbraham 49. On west side of street, near old Bay Road. Church of St. CeciUa, belonging to the Catholic denomination. Erected in 1890, on land purchased from Warren L. Collins. Just north of this church the original Boston Road crosses our Main Street. 50. On east side of street. Buildings owned by J. M. Perry, and used for a garage. A few rods north of this place, the Main street turns east and enters the Boston Road, the places on which will be given under another heading. West Street. Beginning at south line of the town and GOING northward TO LuDLOW 1. Near the southwest comer of the town, Robert W. Day of Springfield has recently purchased about 170 acres of land and has commenced setting it to young white pine trees. About fifty thousand have already been set, and it is intended to increase the number to 150,000 in two or three years. A few hundred red pines have been set for ornamental purposes. Some of the former owners of the land were, James Phelps, Lyman Warner, WilHam Leach, Isaac Leach and others. Robert O. Morris of Springfield also has about 25 acres in that vicinity. Former owners: S. B. Warner, Wm. Leach, Isaac Leach. Mrs. Laura Crane of East Longmeadow has about 30 acres near there. Inherited from her husband, Sylvester Crane, Jr., who inherited from his father, Sylvester Crane Sr., who inherited from Ziba Crane, who purchased of Moses Burt in 1833. There are no houses on any of this land. 2. About one mile north of the south line of our town is the first house on West Street. Now owned by State of Mass. Former owners: John H. Reader, Wicker, Benjamin Tilden. On both sides of the street at this point is the Mass. Game Farm, established by the Commission on Fisheries and Game, in 1912. .%^-^- 398 The History of Wilbraham About 142 acres of land have been purchased of different owners, and the following varieties of game are raised, Wood, Black and Mahard Duck, Wild Turkey, Reeves, Ringneck Pheasant, and Quail. The duck and pheasant are now released to go free. HOMESTEAD OF FRANCIS E. CLARK. Now home of his son, Edgar C. Clark. 3. West Street crosses the Tinkham Road at the four comers, formerly called "Wessons Comer." House on west side of street. Now owned by heirs of T. H. O'Leary. Former owners: Chauncey E. Peck, Thedore Gebo, J. L. S. Wesson, Roswell Phelps, who probably settled there about 1822. 4. On east side of street. Now owned by E. A. Gleason. Former owners: C. Langdon, Mrs. Ella (Clark) Shaw, Francis E. Clark, Dea. Horace Clark. The History of Wilbraham 399 5. On west side of street, and 15 or 20 rods north of Pole Bridge Brook. Now owned by Mrs. James S. Sherwin. Former owners: Dea. Henry Clark, Dea. Horace Clark who purchased from Alvin and William Vining in 1842. 6. Now owned by Edgar C. Clark, who inherited it from his father Dea. Francis E. Clark. Former owners: Dea. Horace Clark, Alden. 7. Now owned by Gardiner W. Files. Former owners: Frank Learned, M. S. Blodgett, Charles C. Learned, Francis J. Warner, Samuel Warner and others. A little north of this house was a small house which burned. 8. On east side. House built in 1913 by William Goodrich, on land purchased from R. J. Sackett. 9. At the four corners where Springfield vStreet crosses West Street. On west side of street and south of Springfield Street. Now owned by Edmund W. Jones. Former owners: Reuben Jones, Lyman Warner, Vashni Warner. 10. On west side of street, and north side of Springfield Street. Now owned by Mrs. James C. Cooley, who inherited it from Mrs. Lucinda (Brewer) Cooley. Former owners: Dwight A. Brewer, Andrew Brewer, Gains Brewer (?). 11. On east side of street. Now owned by Miss E. Louise Brewer. Former owners: C. A. Brewer, D. A. Atchinson, G. S. Atchinson, Benoni Atchinson. 12. On west side of street. Schoolhouse, District No. 1., erected in 1870 to replace one that had become outgrown. The school lot was very much enlarged at that time. 13. A little north of schoolhouse. Now owned by Miss E. Louise Brewer. Former owners: Dwight A. Brewer, D. A. 400 The History of Wilbraham Atchinson, D. L. Atchinson, Nathaniel Atchinson, probably Benoni Atchinson. 14. Now owned by F. A. Bodurtha. Former owners: James Richards, D. A. Atchinson, Electa Atchinson, D. L. Atchinson, Gilling Atchinson, Benoni Atchinson, Jr., Benoni Atchinson, Sr., who settled on the east side of the street, near where the well is now, about 1745. His son Joshua was baptised in the church here in 1746. The place remained in the possession of the Atchinson family for nearly 150 years. SCHOOLHOUSE, DISTRICT \0. 1. 15. On east side of street. Now owned by Mrs. Lena S. White. Former owners: John Duteau, Arthur F. Smith, Mrs. Emogene (Atchinson) Wheelock, D. A. Atchinson, D. L. Atchinson, Ethan Warriner, Ezra Barker. 16. On west side. Now owned by Henry M. Bliss and Charles B. Hitchcock. Former owners: Henry M. and Myron A. Bliss, who inherited it from their father Samuel M. Bliss, who moved here in 1847, Richard D. Hudson, John Russell, Ebenezer Warner, Benj. Warriner. There are brownstone quarries on The History of Wilbraham 401 the west' part of the farm, which were formerly worked by Hudson, the stone being sent to Worcester and Springfield. There is a fine view of the mountains from this place and it is appropriately called, "Mountain View Farm." 17. On east side of street. Now owned by Godeck. Former owners: H. H. Burbank, Ephraim Fuller, Jr., Ephraim Fuller, Sr. The latter had a reputation for telling big stories. Once he was shingling his bam and carried 1000 shingles up the ladder. When he stepped off the ladder onto the staging, the staging broke, and he felt himself going down, but he caught hold of the lower course of shingles, which were nailed to the roof, with his teeth, and held on until a ladder was put up to rescue him. Another, which I heard about fifty-five years ago. He was out hunting wild pigeons and started a large flock. He fired, swinging his gun sidewa^^s as he pulled the trigger. His aim was a fraction too low. He did not kill a single pigeon, but he picked up two bushels of pigeons legs that his shot had cut off. There was a brick in the chimney of this house marked 1779. 18. On west side of street. Now owned by Miss E. Louise Brewer. Former owners: D. A. Brewer, Henry Fuller. 19. Now owned by Nichols Rauh. Former owners: Edwin C. Powell, Edward Evans, Mrs. Myra (Kent) Underwood, Harvey Kent, Henr^^ Fuller. 20. A small house just north, belonging to the same place and used for a tenement. 21. Now owned by Clarence E. Pease. Former owners: Damon, Cornelius White, W. W. Amadon, Hiram Brewer, Lee Rice. 22. On east side of street. Now owned by Dr. James M. Pease, who inherited from his father, Loren C. Pease. Former owners: Frank Chaffe, E. Chaffe. 402 The History of Wilbraham 23. On west side of street. Now owned by William N. Wallace. Former owners, Kate B. Kallman, Patrick Qninlan, who built the house in 1870. He had previously lived in a small house on the east side of the street, a little way up on the small hill. 24. "Peggy's Dipping Hole" Road, leading off to the west. Just north of this road is the cellar which marks the site of the home of E. Russell Warner, which was burned many years ago. 25. On east side of street. Now owned b}^ John Swain. Former owners: Mrs. Ellen Kennedy, E. M. Butterfield, Monroe Pease, James C. Pease. 26. On east side of street. Now owned by Ward A. AUyn, who built the house about 1900, in an orchard formerly on the estate of James C. Pease. 27. Now owned by Gilbert H. Pease, who inherited it from his father, James C. Pease, who had 16 children bom to him in the house which formerly stood on the site of the present house. 28. On west side of street. Now owned by Charles W. Hardy who purchased it about 1908, of Dr. H. O. Pease, who built the house about 1901 on land inherited from his mother. Formerly owned by James C. Pease. 29. On east side, some rods from the street. Now owned by Seymour Holland. Former owners: Dr. H. O. Pease, who built the house, Emeline Pease, James C. Pease. 30. On west side of street. Now owned by Philip Babineau. Former owners: Joseph Frederick, E. J. Gendreau, John Trask, Henry Trask, who lived there for many years previous to about 1870. 31. On west side of street. Now owned by Robert Welch. Former owners: Mary Welch, Patrick Welch, Henry Robbins, M. Langdon, who built the house about 1830. The History of Wilbraham 403 32. On east side of street. Now owned by Hermenigile Dutille. Former owners: Peon, Michael Fitspatrick, William Langdon, Langdon. 33. On east side of the street. Now owned by William Fitz- gerald. Former owners : Timothy Powers, James Powers, who built the house, a Httle north of the site formerly occupied by the blacksmith shop of J. P. Streeter. The shop was discon- tinued about 1875. 34. On west side of street. Now owned by James P. McDon- ald. Former owners: Mrs. Minerva (Langdon) Streeter, her father, Walter Langdon, his father, Capt. Paul Langdon, who probably settled here, from South Wilbraham pre\nous to 1800. About 1863, in the time of the Civil War, Walter Langdon went to the blacksmith shop one morning to hear the war news. The Union forces had gained a victory. He became excited, and died in a few hours. He was nearly ninety years old. 35. On west side of street. Now owned by Charles Barcome. Former owners : James Powers, Hanson Langdon. 36. Down the hill and past the little brook at the foot of the hill, on west side of street. Now owned by E. Towne. Former owners: Alburtus Langdon, Hanson Langdon. 37. On east side of street. Now owned by John B. Ebright. Fonner owners: J. Poduski, John Trask. Some 40 or 60 rods north of this place. West Street crosses the new section of the Boston Road which was constructed in 1896, making a great improvement over former conditions. 38. On east side of street. Now owned by WiUiam Lapine who built the house about 1908. 39. On east side of street. Owned by Michael Powers estate. Former owners: Michael Powers, WilHam Stevens, Jenks. 40. On west side, in the triangle made by the new and old Boston Roads is an old cemetery, in which a stone tells of the death of Roswell P. Stevens, who was killed at the original 404 The History of Wilbraham Wilbraham depot August 10, 1840, "By falling across a Rail Road Track, Aged 23." In the record of deaths the first name is given as "Parmele." 41. On west side, very close to the railroad. Now owned by John B. Dumane. Former owner, W. Stevens. At this point West Street formerly crossed the railroad at a grade crossing. In 1883 the course of the road was changed a little way to the east, an underpass constructed, and the grade crossing abolished. The Boston Road formerly ran on the south side of the rail- road, some 50 or 80 rods further to the east, and crossed there at a grade crossing near where the Wilbraham station was first established, which station was moved to the present Oak Street, in 1851. West Street continued. The following places are all north of the railroad in the northwest comer of the town. After going through the underpass and entering the original road. 1. On west side of street. Now owned by John Craig, who built the house in 1901. 2. Now owned by Mrs Mary McFarland. The house was erected in 1901. 3. Now owned by Edward Macdowell who built the house in 1909. 4. On east side of street. Now owned by George F. Perry who built it in 1895. 5. Now owned by Paul L. Levigne. Former owners: Richard La Fountain, who built the house in 1888. 6. On west side of street. Now owned by David Ogilvie. Former owners: Michael Leahy, Horace Stevens. 7. On east side of street. Now owned by Paul L. Levigne who built the house in 1914. The History of Wilbraham 405 8. On east side of street. Now owned by Frank A. Brodeur. Former owners: — — • La Fountain. Mr. Brodeur is employed in the wholesale department of the Ludlow Manufacturing Associates. 9. Now owned by Cyrille Brodeur. Former owner: Joseph La Fountain. SCHOOLHOUSE, DISTRICT NO. 2. "In action." "THE PINES." 10. On west side of street. Now owned by Michael Leahy. Fonner owners: James A. Langdon, Horace Stevens. 11. On east side of street. Schoolhouse, District No. 2. which was erected in 1886 at a total expense of $1954.00. Because of the pine trees surrounding the location it is appropriately called "The Pines." I think that all of the other places on this street, to the Springfield line, belong to the Ludlow Manufac- turing Associates, which have about 60 houses in this vicinity which are not entered here individually. 406 The History of Wilbraham On street leading northeasterly from the underpass towards the Chicopee River, sometimes called Bridge Street. 1. On west side of street. Now owned by George Perry. 2. On east side. Now owned by Lexyebert Gagne. About 30 or 50 rods east of Bridge Street, so called, is an old road leading northerly from the old Boston road towards Chicopee river. Now, sometimes called River road. On the west side of this road and on the north side of the old Boston road, is the site of the Elisha Fuller tavern which was moved to Indian Orchard station (now called Oak Street) in 1851. There are now two houses on this road. 1. On west side. Now owned by . 2. Now owned by Peter Burdon. Former owners: William Gorven, Ludlow Mfg. Co., L. H. Brigham, Matthew Welch. Fifty years ago this place was known as the "Red House." There is a short street leading from the River Road west to Bridge Street, on which three houses have been recently built, all on the south side. 1. Going west from the River Road. Now owned by Amos Lapine. 2. Now owned by Louis Pellerin. 3. Now owned by Charles Lapine. The other houses in this vicinity are on the Boston Road. Ridge Road or Mountain Road This road formerl}^ ran north and south nearly the entire length of the original Wilbraham. That part of it which runs south from the four comers, at the top of the mountain, where the Monson Road crosses it, was discontinued as a highway, The History of Wilbraham 407 about 1870, and called a "Bridle Path." This south part was laid out by the town in 1769, in consequence of a "Petition by Joseph Jones to lay a Road back side of Bauld Mountain." It commenced near what is now called " Burleigh s comer," as follows: "Beginning at Black oak staddle on the Middle Road about 40 rods north of Serg. Kings fence," then north in all 330 rods, "to a stake and stones the east side of Joseph Jones house, then as the path now goes the east side of Joseph Masons house" — then past the west side of Perminas (?) Kings house, "then north by east the west side of Rattle Snake Peak, so called, to the Road formerly laid out by Springfield." (Monson Road.) So it appears there were three houses on that road in 1769, where there are none now. The road continues on to the north, until it enters the Old Bay Road, now called Maple Street at North Wilbraham. I have called this road Ridge Road because the name is so descriptive of the localit}'. For about one mile north of the Monson Road, there are no houses now, although several cellar holes, along the road, show where there were houses once. Among them, are the colonial homes of Cadwell, Webster, Chapin, who is said to have brought the first rat to town, in a sack of wool purchased in Rhode Island. Ezra Barker, Town Clerk for many years, lived on this road. Some of these cellar holes, near the four corners, mark the place where the men went in the night time, to dig for "Cap. Kidd's Gold," about 1850. 1. A little more than one mile north of where the Ridge Road crosses the Monson Road, some 50 to 70 rods east, is the first house on this road. Now owned by George W. Ely, or by his daughter, Mrs. Edith (Ely) Patterson. Former owners: An- drew Anderson, , vSolomon Brewer, D. L. Atchinson, , Judah Ely probably lived here about 1810. 2. Some 30 or 50 rods east of the Ely place is another house, now owned by George W. Ely, who built it about 1900. Mr. Elv owns several large tracts of land in this \'icinitv. 408 The History of Wilbraham 3. On west side of road. The old stone chimney still standing marks the site of the Webster house. The place is now owned by George W. Ely. Former owners : Orrin Webster, Moses K. Bartlett, S. Bartlett. Just north of this chimney is the road leading down to Wilbraham centre. 4. On east side of road opposite the old chimney. House, now owned by Mrs. Edith (Ely) Patterson. Former owners: Roswell P. Mills, Orrin Webster. THE FIRST BUNGALOW IN WILBRAHAM. Now owned by Miss Effie L. Morgan. 5. On west side of road. Monus Konus Bungalow. Now owned by Miss Effie L. Morgan. Former owners: Mrs. W. F. Morgan. Erected in 1910 on land formerly owned by Charles Tupper, Jennie E. T. Dowe, R. P. Mills, J. Duncan, Jonathan Ely. This was the first bungalow erected on the mountain. About 1850, a small shoemakers shop stood near, and that business was carried on by Jonathan Ely and his son Dixon. 6. On east side of road. Now owned by Mr. and Mrs. W. F. Morgan. Fonner owners: William B. Morgan, Jonathan Ely. The History of Wilbraham 409 A little south of the Morgan place is the site of the Ely house which was burned about 1888. 7. On west side of road. Now owned by Louis G. Stacy. Former owners: George W. Tupper, William Tupper, Warren Collins, Capt. James Shaw, who commanded the company that responded to the Bennington alarm in 1777. The house for- merly stood on the east side of the road, where the bam now is. It is said, that Warren Collins and his wife cared for Captain and Mrs. Shaw in their last days. He died in 1831. Mr. SCHOOLHOUSE, DISTRICT NO. .5. Standing on the site of the second schoolhouse which was erected in the town. " Master" Ezra Barker was a teacher here. Stacy is the seventh generation of the Stacy family that have lived in town. 8. West side of road. Now owned by Herbert E. Tupper. Former owners : Edwin L. Tupper, who purchased the place in 1842 of William Bliss, it being part of the original Bliss farm. Mr. Tupper is the rural mail carrier on the R. F. D. route and is familharly called "Bert" by those whom he serves. On the 410 The History of Wilbraham east side of the road is the site of a house formerly the home of Mr. B. F. Green, and of his parents. 9. On east side of road, and on north side of the road, leading eastward to East Street. Schoolhouse of District No. 5. This schoolhouse formerly stood about one-half mile further north, and was moved to the present location in 1881. 10. On west side of road. Now owned by Mrs. Edith Miniter Former owners: John Hitchcock, John Thayer, Samuel M. Bliss, J. Bliss. The house was built in 1830 by Samuel M. Bliss. It is said that the town's poor were kept in this house about 1845-50. A very tall oak tree stood near this house, and was sold by John Thayer, about 1857, for .$100, to make a mast for a ship. 11. East side of road. Now owned by Thomas Lyons. For- mer owner: D. N. Haskell. 12. On east side. Now owned by Benj. F. Green. Former owners: Miss Angeline Woodward and her sister Jerusha Woodward, Dea. Aaron Woodward. This place was known for many years as "The Deacon Woodward place." Deacon Woodward settled here, probably about the year 1803. In the records of the First Congregational Church is this entry, "Jan. 1.. 1804, Rev. Aaron Woodward & his wife were admitted by letter from the church of Christ in Wilten (?) Nor walk Conn." Elizabeth, his daughter, was bom here April — , 1804. Deacon Woodward died February 21, 1840, aged 79 years. He never served here as a pastor, but was a deacon for many years. There is a stone in the underpinning of the house marked 1769. Probably Oliver Bliss lived here at that time. 13. On east side. Now owned by T. D. or Charles S. Potter. Former owners: Miss Abbie Spear who inherited it from her mother, Mrs. Antoinette (Bliss) Spear. John Bliss, Oliver Bliss, Ensign Abel Bliss. It is now used for a suburban home. (See History.) Mr. Potter has built on this property, in the last two years, three or four bungalows, some 70 rods west of the road. The History of Wilbraham 411 14. On east side of road. Now owned by William Whitney. The house was built by Lawrence Wrinkle about 1883 and being visible at quite a distance from the east, is sometimes called "The Lighthouse." A little north of this place, the Ridge Road enters what was formerly the "Old Bay Road," and turns to the west, and continues along what is now called Maple Street, until it A RARE SCENE. Taken on East Street, just over the line in the present town of Hampden. enters the original Main Street, near the garage of J. M. Perry. (See Maple Street.) East Street In 1767, the town "new laid the Third Road in this Town (so called) as follows." "Beginning near the south side of Jabes Hendricks Lot — thence northerly." They ran the line from one tree to another. (In all 81 trees are mentioned.) 412 The History of Wilbraham Also, "near Caleb Stebbins Barn — near Daniel Cadwells House — to a White Rock on the north side of Twelve Mile Brook — to a Black Rock North of Stebbins Mill — then to the Bay Road by a Pine Tree." It is interesting to recall these ancient boundaries. The White Rock is still there. It is on the west side of the road and is about four or five feet in diameter. East Street, beginning at Hampden line and going north. HOME OF MRS. LEOLA B. EDSON. 1. On east side of road. Now owned by Mrs. Leola (Blan- chard) Edson. Former owners: Mrs. Sophronia (Calkins) Blanchard, Mrs. Lucia (Day) Calkins, A. Jackson Blanchard, Susan Lamson, Shadrach Thayer, Abisha Blanchard, Eleazer Bishop, Peter Walbridge, 1806, Moses Hancock, Amos Beebe, Judah Wiley, 1793. First cultivated strawberries in this neigh- borhood were raised by Shadrach Thayer. 2. On west side. Now owned by John Francovitz. Former owners: Wm. A. Rice, Mrs. Mary (Carpenter) Rice, her father, The History of Wilbraham 413 Dr. Wm. Carpenter, Capt. John Carpenter, Moses Hancock, Jr., Moses Hancock, Mrs. Wealthy (Bishop) Hancock was the "yarb docter" of the neighborhood, and her "Bee Balm" grows there beside the wall today as it did one hundred years ago. 3. Now owned by Kamey Netupski. Former owners : Sophia Seagal, Mrs. A. J. Blanchard, A. Jackson Blanchard, Abishia SCHOOLHOUSE, DISTRICT NO. 7. The only district keeping its original number. Gilligan, Ithamar BHss, Blanchard, Moses Hancock, — Nathan Mack. This was among the first places in town purchased by persons of the Jewish nationality, about 1902. All the residents agree that they were good neighbors, but they only remained a short time. 4. Now owned by Kamey Netupski. Fonner owners: Sophia Seagal, Mrs. A. J. Blanchard, and W. A. Mowry, Sophia 414 The History of Wilbraham Knowlton, Moses Hancock, Jr., Webster, Gilligan, Carpenter. The house was burned some years ago, but some of the other buildings are still standing. This place was known for a long time as the Dennis Knowlton place. 5. About one-quarter of a mile north of the Knowlton place the street crosses the Monson Road. On the west side of the street, and on north side of Monson Road is the Glendale Cemetery. Probably established previous to 1800. 6. Opposite the cemetery on east side of street is the Glendale Methodist Episcopal Church, which was erected in 1868. The Duty Partridge house stood many years ago, just north of the site of the church. 7. On east side. Now owned by Albert L. Farr who built the house in 1913, on land purchased of his father, James H. Farr. This is the first new house built in this vicinity for several years. 8. On east side of road. Schoolhouse, District No. 7. For- merly called the Chapin District. 9. On west side. Now owned by James H. Farr. Former owners: Wm. P. Clark, George Edson, Isaac N. Chapin, Solomon Chapin, Zebulon Chapin, Samuel Bishop, 1777. The south part of the farm is on the overplus land and was pur- chased of the town of Wilbraham in 1773. Isaac Chapin had a Brandy Still just north of the barn on this place. At the time when the temperance wave was sweeping over the land, about 1845, the still caught fire. The neighbors gathered, but they were glad to see it go, and would not lift a finger to help Mr. Chapin put out the fire, although he begged them with tears to aid him. It is said that Zebulon Chapin, father of Isaac, lived about 50 rods east of the Ridge Road, near the top of the mountain, and that several rock maples now mark the site of his house, and that his 12 children were born there, from 1769 to 1791. He gave this place to his son Isaac. 10. On east side of road. Cellar hole. Now owned by Henry I. and Clarence E. Edson. Former owners: Cyrus F. Edson, The History of Wilbraham 415 IlU.Mi: ol ALLYN M. SEAVER. View showing one of the industries in which Mr. Seaver is interested. 416 The History of Wilbraham Benjamin Edson, 1802, Justin Stebbins, Zebulon Chapin 1783, Caleb Stebbins, 1739, Daniel Warner. The old deed was part of lots 114, 115 and 116. 11. On east side. House now abandoned, formerly Chauncey Bishop place. 12. On east side of road. Now owned by Dwight W. Eddy. Former owners: Eleazer Bishop, Shubal Davis, Nathaniel Knowlton, Orson Holdrich, Elmer Lemon, Albert Bliss, Anna Bennett. 13. On west side of road. Now owned by J. L. Brooks. Former owners: Perkins, Allyn M. Seaver, Mrs. Almira Davis, George Stebbins. 14. On east side of road. Now owned by Allyn M. Seaver. Former owners: A. Delos Seaver, Jason Stebbins, Frederick Stebbins, Caleb Stebbins, David Chapin, Jr., in 1751. This is said to be part of the original lot, 105, allotted to Japhet Chapin in 1685, and came to his son Daniel in 1685. Many Indian relics have been found on this farm. 15. On east side of road. Now owned by Herbert H. Graves. Former owners: Goldie Frankel, A. M. Seaver, A. Delos Seaver, Francis Knowlton, N. Knowlton, Cadwell, Capt. Daniel Cadwell, who from 1737 to 1764 bought of Samuel Warner, David Warriner, Isaac Brewer, the east end of lots 97 to 102. The deed from Samuel Warner reads, " From Brim- field line, west, to a gutter where a road is to be laid out." (Ridge Road.) It is said that the early settlers got bog iron ore near the brook east of the house, and that Temperance Day Knowlton raised silk worms with considerable success at the time of the silk industry excitement. This was one of the places purchased by the society for the promotion of agricul- ture among the Jews a few years ago. 16. On west side of road. Now owned by Joshua L. Brooks. Former owners: A. M. Seaver, Oscar F. Benedict, John Bul- lard, Stephen Cadwell. Capt. Daniel Cadwell purchased of Nathaniel Warriner in 1764. Being the east end of lot 96, The History of Wilbraham 419 22 rods, 2 feet and 9 inches wide. Mr. Brooks purchased the place in 1903. He was instrumental in getting the telephone line established in this vicinity. He has called the place "Brookmont." Mr. Brooks is now President of the Springfield Board of Trade. 17. East side of road. Now owned by Mrs. Edna Metcalf. Former owners: A. M. Seaver, Mrs. Joseph (Shields) Baldwin, Sextus Shields, Sheldon. Many Indian relics have been found on this place, and on many other places in this vicinity. 18. On west side of road. Cellar hole. Formerly owned by James Calkins, also by James W. Bennett. 19. On east side of road. Now owned by Fred C. Phelps. Former owners: George W. Ely, George Leadbetter, James W. Bennett who built the house. 20. On east side of road. Now owned by J. Addison Bennett. Purchased from John Rindge. There are some curious stones on this place which may have done service for the Indians. 21. On west side of road. Now owned by George L. Rindge. Former owners : Lucius Rindge, Royal R. Rindge. This place, ha\'ing been occupied by the Rindge family for more than one hundred years, is very appropriately called "Century Home- stead." Continuing this road in a northerly direction for about half a mile. On east side of road there is a cellar hole which marks the site of a house burned several years ago. The place is now owned by Henry M. Green. Former owners: Mrs. Julia (Butler) Green, Benjamin Butler, Orsemus Smith, Alvin Bennet. Mr. Orsemus Smith was killed on the railroad near the Nortli Wilbraham station about 1867, and Mrs. Smith drowned herself and her child in the brook east of the house about 1872. 22. On east side of road. Now owned by Mrs. Amelia L. Hollingsworth. Her husband built the house about 1867. On o ^ The History of Wilbraham 421 east side is the site of the first mill in this vicinity formerly owned by E. B. Gates, Dr. Shearer, Benjamin Butler. 23. On east side of road. Now owned by H. and M. Elpert. THE RINDGE OAK. A red oak tree standing at the intersection of the roads just north of the "Century Homestead," Girth is 16 feet, at 3 feet above the ground. The view is looking northerly. Former owners: Frank Rindge, Charles Rindge, Benjamin Butler, Artemus Knowlton. After passing over Eleven Mile Brook (sometimes called Twelve Mile.) REV. CHARLES H. GATES. Born at Palmer in 1823. He was ordained in the Congregational Church in 1851. Most of his service as a clergyman was in other states. He retired from the active ministry in 1893. He was the oldest man in town and held the Boston Post cane. Died December 12, 1914, in his ninety-second year. The History of ^YILBRAHAM 423 24. On the east side of the road is the home of Rev. Charles H. Gates. Former owners: Asa Gates, Dr. Shearer. Rev. Mr. Gates was born in Wilbraham in 1823, and is now the oldest man in town. 25. On east side. Owned by estate of E. O. Gates. Former owner: E. B. Gates. 26. On west side of road. Owned by estate of E. O. Gates. Formerly used as a residence by one of the managers of the mill. 27. On east side. Estate of E. O. Gates. Also used as a residence by one of the managers. Former owners: D. W. Ellis, Benjamin Butler. 28. On west side of road. House, owned by Estate of E. O. Gates. These last five places were formerly the propert}^ of Dwight W. Ellis, Gates and Nelson, Stebbins and others, and were used as homes for the help employed in the saw mill, grist mill, and woolen mills, some of which were operated here, from about 1762, until recently, using the power furnished by the brook. The road formerly went over the railroad at a grade crossing, and entered the Boston Road, between the houses now owned by E. N. Lyman and Brad way and Warren. Now the road runs under the railroad, at an underpass several rods west of the former crossing, and enters the Boston Road. East Street, completes the list of roads running north and south through the town. We will now commence on the roads running east and west in our territory, beginning with the most northerly one. Old Boston Road Going east from Springfield line 1. Near Springfield line. Now owned by estate of John Kelly. About one-third of a mile east from the Springfield line, the Boston Road enters West Street, turns to the north and runs The History of Wilbraham 425 under the railroad at the underpass and turns again to the east. The houses on the road are as follows: 1. On north side of road and a little east of the underpass. House now owned by William Lapine. 2. Now owned by John W. Powers, who built the house recently. 3. On south side of road between it and the railroad. Now owned by Alexander Cormack. Former owners: Thomas Patterson, Michael Powers. 4. A little east of Cormack house. Now owned by James Flanigan. This place was owned or occupied for many years by C. M. Willard, who conducted the saw mill on the south bank of Chicopee river. The first railroad station in Wilbra- ham was established here, probably between these last two houses. The road continues on about half a mile and crosses the railroad by an overhead bridge and again connects with the new Boston Road. Just before crossing the railroad, on the north side of the road is the cellar hole which marks the site of the house of Patrick Moran. This crossing is still called "Moran's crossing." It was formerly a grade crossing, eight or ten rods further to the east. Following along the road, on the south side of the railroad, about half a mile to the east. 5. On north side of road. Now owned by George C. Rose. Former owners: Allyn M. Seaver, James W. Bennett who built the first house there about 1900 and which was burned some years later and the present house erected. The place has been called Overlook Poultry Farm. 6. Now owned by C. W. Parish. Former owner, Abram Simons, who manufactured cigars. 7. On south side of road. Now owned by heirs of Levi R. Bliss. Former owner: L. Ruggles Bliss who built the house, about 1840. Known as Minnechaug Farm and as a summer resort. w X3 1-1 61) a S o ^ X « J= ,_, >. > J3 w -a J a fe ^ o CJ a - <<; c a L. W in <5 a ri J3 a o 428 The History of Wilbraham 8. On south side of road, near the edge of Nine Mile Pond. 14 cottages, property of Mrs. F. A. Towne of Springfield. Mostly used for summer residences. 9. On north side of road. Now owned by Lewis C. Tripp. Built in 1912. 10. On south side of road. Now owned by Mrs. Mary P. Moore. Former owners: Mrs. E. B. Gates. Mrs Dexter Tufts, Mr. Fred Pease, Marshall A. Lane. 11. On north side. Now owned by Marshall A. Lane and built by him in 1912. 12. On north side of road. Auto Inn. Now owned by Wil- liam E. Liversage. Former owners: Marshall A. Lane, Augus- tus J. Lane, , Captain Shepard, a retired sea captain, whose sailboat contained the victims of the Nine Mile Pond accident in 1799. (See History.) 13. The "Island." Now called Bungalow Point, Nine Mile Pond. Now owned by Mrs. J. N. Northrop who owns ten cottages there which her husband commenced to build about 1909. Occupied in summer by families for vacation purposes. Open May 1 to October 15. These cottages are on a peninsula which extends into the pond from the east shore. 14. On south side of road, and east side of Nine Mile Pond. Club House. Owned by the Manchonis Club of Springfield, formerly Bicycle Club. House built about 1888. North of Auto Inn, and a little north of the Boston & Albany railroad are two houses, connected with the Boston Road by a cart path. Beginning at the west. 1. Home of Mrs. Daniel Sweeny. Formerly owned by Timothy Donovan, who probably built the house about 1880. 2. Home of Thomas J. Murphy. Formerly owned by Michael Sullivan. The History of Wilbraham 429 15. On north side of road. Now owned by John Powers. Former owners: Mrs A. E. Clark, Lester Squire, who built the house in 1872. 16. Bungalow, built in 1913 by George J. Frost. 17. On north side. Now owned by Maurice Driscoll. Former owners: William Ramsdell, George Lane, Augustus Lane. 18. On north side. Now owned by Bernard Lynch. Former owner, Augustus Lane. A little east of this place the Boston road enters the main street leading to Wilbraham centre. Present Boston Road (Now Main Street, North Wilbraham) Going east froin the point where the Main Street of the town enters the Boston Road. 1. On south side of road. Now owned by Mary Dempsey. Former owner: Augustus F. Friend who built the house about 1909. 2. On south side. Now owned by Augustus F. Friend. Former owner: James W. Bennett who built the house about 1900. 3. On north side of road. Town library. Former owners: Henry Cutler, James W. Bennett, who built the house about 1875. This place was conveyed to the town by the- will of Henry Cutler, subject to the life use of Abner E. Bell, which use expired at the decease of Mr. Bell in 1912. It was fitted up for its present use at an expense of about $2,500, paid by the town. 4. On south side of road. Now owned by Mrs. Anna (Bennett) Fuller, w^hose husband, Charles F. Fuller, built the house in 1897. 5. On north side. Now owned by Mrs. Emma (Collins) Mowry. House built in 1886 by her husband De Witt Mowry. 430 The History of Wilbraham 6. On south side of road. Present owner. Ernest L. Thomp- son who built the house in 1909 and who is einployed as pay- master by the Fred T. Ley Co. 7. On north side. Now owned by Mrs. Lizzie (Cohins) Warren. Formerlv owned bv W. L. ColHns who buik the house HU.ME OF ERNEST L. THOMPSON. in 1897 on site of the home of Warren ColHns which burned in 1895. The old house was used as the second depot. Part of this house has been used for several years as the home and village millinery store, of Mrs. L. E. Hawley. 8. On north side of road. Present site of Boston and Albany depot. The station was probably established here about 1852, called "Collins Depot." The History of Wilbraham 431 HOME OF MK:S. lizzie tCOLLINS) WARREN. PRESENT RAILROAD STATION AT NORTH WILBRAHAM. 432 The History of Wilbraham 9. On south side. Hollister Block. Now used as postoffice and James Logan's drug and grocery store. Now owned by Julia F. Hollister of Lee, Mass., and built by Frank Hollister and T. Hulbert. 10. On north side of road. Bradway's grocery store. Owned and built by Nelson Brad way in 1912 on site of former post- oflfice and store occupied by E. B. Gates, Charles Stacy and STORE OF NELSON I. BRADWAY. A store has been kept on this site for many years. others. The road formerly crossed the railroad, at a grade crossing, just east of the station. 11. On south side of road. Collins Inn. Now owned by Mrs. Emma (Collins) Mowry. Built by W. L. Collins in 1874 and has been the Central Telephone Station since the line was first established. A livery stable has been kept in connection with this house for many years. The History of Wilbraham 433 12. On south side of road. Small house. Now owned by Mrs. Emma (Collins) Mowry. Former owners: W. L. Collins, Warren Collins who built it in 1847. This building was the first railroad station and stood on the site of the present depot. 13 and 14. On north side. Two small buildings, owned by estate of W. L. Collins. Built about 1880. One formerly used by town for storage purposes, and the other a meat market. COLLINS INN. Owned by Mrs. Emma (Collins) Mowry. Formerly home of W. Levi Collins. 15. On south side of road. Building owned by Joseph Bald- win's heirs, and used by Frank A. Fuller as a general grocery store. Built about 1892 on the site of a cheese factory, which was erected about 1867, and which was burned. 16. On south side. Blacksmith shop. Now owned by Mrs. Emma (Collins) Mowry. Former owner: W. L. Collins, who 434 The History or Wilbraham built it in 1887. The road now runs by the underpass, under the railroad. We will complete the list of places in North Wilbraham village, before continuing along the rest of this road. The Original Boston Road Now called Maple Street, at North Wilbraham. Going east from the main street of the town. HOME OF FRANK A. FULLER. 1. On north side of street. Now owned by John Baldwin, postmaster. Former owners: Joseph Baldwin, John Baldwin, who kept a tavern from 1836 to 1860 or 1865. Formerly called "Ten Mile House." 2. On north side. Now owned by Frank A. Fuller who built house in 1894. 3. On south side of street. Home of J. M. Perry who built house in 1886 on land purchased of Joseph Baldwin. The History of Wilbraham 43,5 4. On north side of street. Now owned by Mrs. Anna Miller. Former owner: Marshall Wright who built the house about 1895. 5. Parsonage of Grace Union Church built in 1890 by the Ladies' Aid Society. 6. South side of street. Present owner, Frank A. Fuller, mer- chant. Former owner, Hiram Danks who built house in 1877 on land purchased from John Baldwin. This was the site of an old blacksmith shop, occupied about 1868 to 1871 by E. M. Barry. 7. North side of street. Present owner, Mrs. Frances E. Wall, widow of Edwin Wall, who built house in 1891 on land purchased of W. L. Collins. Mr. Wall was Town Clerk for many years. 8. On south side of street. House owned and liuilt by Joseph Baldwin 1914. THE BALDWIN MAPLE. Standing in the yard, near the home of Mrs. Joseph Baldwin, at North Wilbraham. 9 and 10. On north side of street. Two houses owned by H. W. Cutler. They were built in 1877 by the late Henry Cutler. This is practically the site of the old Sikes tavern of colonial times. Marcus Lyons body was left here, and the inquest was held here, when the tavern was managed by a Mr. Calkins. Also site of first home of Warren Collins. The garden of this estate was the scene of the cantata presented during the anniversary in June 1913, by the young people of North Wilbraham under the direction of Mrs. H. W. Cutler. 436 The History of Wilbraham 11. On south side. Home of Mrs. Maria Baldwin. House built by her husband, Joseph Baldwin on the site of the Glover tavern. The barn stands on, or near, the site of a Revolutionary blacksmith shop, probably the one where several witnesses observed the movements of Halligan and Daly, murderers of Marcus Lyon. 12. On south side of street. Present owner, Timothy Keefe who built house in 1905. 13. On north side of street. Now owned by Herbert F. Green. Built about 1898 by Frank H. Strickland. Ch.4pel Street Going north to Boston Road from Maple Street. 1. East side of street. Grace Union Church. Built in 1876 on land given to the society by Warren Collins. (See History.) 2. On east side. Present owner. Dr. A. L. Damon. Former owners: Charles E. Garvin, Charles E. Stacy, who built the house in 1878. 3. On west side of street. Owned by estate of E. B. Gates. Built by E. B. Gates in 1879. 4. On east side. Owned by Collins Manufacturing Company, who built house about 1872. It has been occupied a large part of the time by some of the superintendents of the paper mill. A short street, going north from Maple Street to Boston Road, a little west of Chapel Street. 1. On east side of street. House owned by estate of E. B. Gates. Built by Miss Harriet Gates. 2. On east side. Now owned by Mrs. Emma (CoUins) Mowry. Former owner. Miss Caroline ColHns. Built by Warren Collins in 1861. ERASMUS B. GATES. Born at Wilbraham in 1827. Merchant and Postmaster at North Wilbraham for many years. Served as Town Clerk and Treasurer, also as Selectman for several terms. Died in 1914, aged 87 years. HOME OF MRS. HARRIET (KENT) GATES. 438 The History of Wilbraham * Going north on the road from the Boston & Albany under- pass at North Wilbraham, to Ludlow line, at bridge over Chicopee River. On both sides of this road and at some distance west of the road are about fifteen or twenty houses and also the paper mills of the Collins Mfg. Co., and the grain mills of the Cutler Co. There was formerly a large growth of trees on this land and from 1857 to 1864 it was used as a campmeeting ground by the Springfield District Methodist Conference, in the summer of each year. The houses of the Collins Mfg. Co. are not entered here separately. 1. On west side of road. Now owned by Flavel D. Benton. 2. On west side. Present owner, Thomas Lines. Fomier owner, Joseph Parker, who built the house about 1878. Near, and just north of railroad track. 1. Poolroom. 2. House now owned by Mrs. Margaret Fitzgerald. Former owner, Phineas Knowlton. Before the present underpass was constructed the road crossed the railroad at a grade crossing, just east of the railroad station, and ran down towards the river, just west of this house. Boston Road (continued) After passing through North Wilbraham village and going by the underpass beneath the Boston & Albany railroad, the road continues along eastward near the Chicopee river, without any houses on it, for about half a mile. After crossing Eleven Mile Brook the first house is : 1. On north side of road. Now owned by Mrs. George Cady. Former owners: Henry C. Butler, Benjamin Butler. A little east of this place is the site of the old Toll Gate. The History of Wilbraham 439 2. South side of road. Now owned by Edward N. Lyman. Former owner Benjamin Butler. Called the "Bliss Place." 3. On north side. Now owned by Mrs. Herbert F. Green. Former owners: Henry C. Butler, Col. Benjamin Butler, who was a colonel in the militia about 1838. 4. On south side of road. Present owners; F. Warren and THE COLONEL BUTLER HOMESTEAD. Now owned by his granddaughter, Mrs. Herbert (Butler) Green. N. Bradway. Former owners: Walter Green, Benjamin Butler. Called the "Kilbom Place." 5. On north side. Cement house owned by A. L. Warriner who built the house in 1908 on land purchased of Jason Butler whose house was burned in 1907. 6. On north side. House moved from Lyon place on Ridge Road about 1850. Present owner, James K. Butler. Former owner, Benjamin Butler, about 1870. JASON BUTI.ER. A teacher in the public schools for several years. MemberHof School Committee, of Selectmen, Representative to the Legislature. A son of Col. BeDJamin|Butler. The History of Wilbraham 7. On north side. Present owner, James K. Butler. 441 8. On north side of road. Now owned by Mrs. Mary Ash. Known as the "Seth Knowlton Place." A store was kept here for several years. 9. On south side. Present owner, Smith. Charles Ulrich and Thomas Marshall were former owners. HOME OF JAMES S. MORGAN. 10. On north side of road. Now owned by C. W. Vinton. Former owner: Benjamin Butler. On the east side of this place, a road runs northerly to Three Rivers. 11. On north side of Boston Road. Now owned by James S. Morgan, who built house in 1879. 12. On north side. Schoolhouse, District No. 6. 13. On north side. Now owned by Mrs. Ines Perry. This was formerly a methodist meeting house. 442 The History of Wilbraham 14. On south side of road. The meeting house of the Christian Union Society. This was erected in 1868 on land given to the society by Col. Benjamin Butler. 15. Some little distance north of the road. Now owned by Benjamin B. Green. Former owners: Palmer Savings Bank, Samuel Swift, Rufus Graves, George Burr. 16. On south side. Now owned by Alphonsus L. Boylan. Former owner, Daniel Hovey. ipi^BHBBBPiF SCHOOLHOUSE, DISTRICT NO. 6. This schoolhouse formerly stood about a mile to the north and was moved to the present location. 17. On north side. Now owned by Mrs. Henry Green. 18. A little north of road. The East Wilbraham Cemetery. 19. On south side. Now owned by Henry M. Green. Former owners: Walter M. Green, Alonzo Ingraham, Elisha Burr. Just east of this house there was once a "store," where it is said that "booze" was sold in former days. 20. On north side of road. Now owned by Carlos Alden. Former owner, Joshua Alden. The History of Wilbraham 443 21. On north side. Now owned by Mrs. George Chandler. Former owner, Mrs. Loren Bishop, who built house about 1897. 22. On south side of road. Present owner, D. C. Griswold. Former owners: Theodore Jones, Jason Jones, . Perhaps Ezekiel Terry conducted his printing business at this place, for a short time, about 1810. This is the last place in Wilbraham on the Boston Road. » Going north from No. 6 schoolhouse towards "Red Bridge" and Three Rivers. 1. Owned by ■ Consigne. Formerly, A. Knowlton. 2. Owned by F. M. Angell. Formerly, A. Chilson. 3. Owned by Smith. Formerly, H. Burr. 4. Owned by Andrew Clealand. Formerly, P. P. Potter. Going south from Boston Road, the next road running east and west across the town, is from Ridge Road to East Street. On road leading from No. 5 schoolhouse east to East Street, near the home of George Rindge. 1. On the hill east of the schoolhouse three bungalows have recently been built, owned by George Chapin, — — Bates, Stedman. 2. On the north side of the road. House owned by Benjamin F. Green and built about 1880. These are the only houses now on this road. Going south on Main Street, nearly two miles from the Boston road, we come to Faculty Street, leading off to the west from Main Street. 444 The History of Wilbraham Faculty Street, going west from Main Street. All the houses are on north side of street. 1. Wilbraham Academy Dormitory, a little west of the principal's house. Was built in 1827, on the site of the present principal's house and used as such for twenty-eight years, when it was removed to present location and fitted up for students. 2. Now owned by John Kelley and built by him about 1904. Previous owner, Rev. Franklin Fisk. 3. Mrs. S. F. White the present owner, inherited froin her husband, Rev. Lorenzo White, who bought from Nancy and Margaret Burt. Perry Goodale and William H. Bussell who may have built the house were former owners. 4. Present owner, Williain D. Bridge, Orange, N. J. Former owners were Mrs. Abigail L. Bridge and Albert Smith, a sea captain. This was the home of Timothy D. Smith, killed in a skirmish at Jeffersonville, Va., April 6*^*^, 1865. 5. Owned by C. Francis Home. Former owners were Mrs. L. S. Nesmith, who was a large collector of antiques and curios. Mrs. F. A. Billings, Mrs. H. J. French, Mrs. S. A. Curtis, Prof. Oliver Marcy, who built it. 6. Estate of Rev. Charles Noble. Occupied by his daughter Lucretia Gray Noble. 7. Present owner, James Ritchie. Former owners: C. W. Vinton and sister, C. H. Vinton, E. Munsell, Betsey H. Smith and I. H. Plumley. This road was laid out in 1764. "The Road to begin from the Road or Street that David Warriner lives upon or the Main Road leading to Samuel Glovers, — on the north side of the lot originally laid out to John Dorchester (No. 96) and now owned by David Warriner Extending west across Cowpen Meadow Swamp." The History of Wilbraham 445 Going south on Main Street from Faculty Street, we come to the road leading eastward up to the Ridge road. There are now no houses on that road. Springfield Street, going west from Main Street. 1. First house west of Phillips' store. Now owned by Edith A. Holman. Former owners: Phebe A. Holman, Cecelia B. Chilson, Emeline R. Sterling and Catharine B. Shemian, Lucinda D. Moody, Nancy B. Moody, Gaius Brewer. The blacksmith shop of John Brewer, and of his father Gaius Brewer, stood just east of the present house. About 1850, a six or eight years old boy and his sister were sent on an errand to this place. They found the lady of the house smoking her pipe, (something not tmusual in those days). In order to attend to their errand she was obliged to leave the room for a few minutes and laid down her pipe. The children took several whiffs from it before she returned, and soon the floor of the room seemed to them to be whirling around and the sides of the house falling in. They got out of the house and ate some sorrel which they found near the shop, and hurried home. But the doctor had to be called before their troubles were ended. The "Boy" told me the story only a few days ago. 2. Owned by Anna A. Peck who built the house in 1893. Previous owners: Anna A. Peck and Mrs. Elvira L. Childs, Phebe A. Holman. 3. Present owner, Carrie A. Moody. Former owners: David K. Merrill, Spaulding, William Brewer, John and Henry Brewer. House supposed to have been built by Lee Rice. 4. First house on south side of Springfield Street. Now owned by Wilham H. Foster. Former owners: Dr. James M. Foster, Mrs. Lottie (Kent) Cross, William Kent who built the house. In 1812, the town purchased the land where this house stands, (or very near it) for a Town Pound, described partly as follows : "Beginning at the bars north of William Brewer's cider mill, The History of Wilbraham about 20 rods west of Gaius Brewer's blacksmith shop, — bounded north on the lane." So it appears that our present Springfield Street was called a lane in 1812. 5. Just west of the Foster house. Now owned by Mrs. Ellen M. Stephens, who inherited it from her husband, James Stephens. Former owners: Dr. C. W. Cross, W. Kent. 6. On north side of street. Now owned by Mrs. Jane Wynn, who inherited it from her husband, Henry Wynn, who carried on the blacksmith business there for about twenty years until about 1898, in a shop north of the house. Fornier owner, James P. Brown, who built the present house. 7. A few rods west of Wynn house. Now owned by Miss Juliette A. Bosworth. Former owner, Charles M. Pease, who built the present house about 1893. 8. A few rods west of the Bosworth house. Now owned by George W. Rice. Former owners: L. G. Bartlett, Juliette A. Bosworth, Mrs. Theodosia Bosworth, Dea. Horace Clark. Now occupied by Frank Sweatland. This is the building which previous to about 1842, was the schoolhouse, which stood on the east side of Main Street, just north of the road leading up to the Dell cemetery. Afterwards the store and postoffice of Luthur B. Bliss, which was moved about 1858 to the west side of the street, and used for a tenement, until about 1869, when it was moved to the present location. 9. On south side of street. No. 4 schoolhouse, built in 1905, at a total expense of about $5,000 including the land, purchased of Mrs. Mary B. Gumey. 10. Just beyond the schoolhouse. Now owned by William A. Rice. Former owners: Mrs. Caroline Lyman, William Kent, who built the house about 1865. 11. On north side of street. Now owned by Mrs. Ellen M. Stephens who inherited it from her husband, James Stephens. Former owner, Hendrick . The History of Wilbbaham 447 12. Now owned by G. F. Comstock, who purchased it in 1907 from the estate of Ann Robinson, who purchased it in 1872. Purchased by former owners: W. Kent in 1872, James Robin- son, (husband of Ann) 1865, Ichabod Marcy, 1858, E. B. Mor- gan, 1854, Larkin Fay, 1838, Dr. Jesse W. Rice, 1826. This place, like all the others on the north side of Springfield Street over to Pole Bridge Brook, are on the tract purchased by Charles Brewer in 1781. Larkin Fay built the house. George SCHOOLHOUSE, DISTRICT XO. 4. On Springfield Street. Robinson, son of James and Ann, was killed in the battle of the Wilderness, Va., May 5, 1864. 13. On south side of street. Now owned by J. M. Belcher of Springfield. Fonncr owners: Mrs. Sarah Ball, Homer Ball, Jones. This building was formerly the shoemakers shop of Ezra White, and stood on the east side of Main Street, a few rods north of the stone church, and was moved to the present site, probably about 1853. Recently in scraping the paint from the outside of the house, the name E. WHITE, was uncovered. 448 The History of Wilbraham 14. On north side of street. Now owned by Fred. Wads- worth. Former owners: C. V. Wells, F. Warner, E. W. Beards- ley, John Markham, and others. 15. About forty or sixty rods west of Wadsworth house. Now owned by Mrs. Elizabeth (Granger) Burbank. Former owners: Judge E. B. Maynard of Springfield, Emma P. Par- menter, Whitcomb Grey, Mr. and Mrs. Ira Hitchcock. Just east of this place is the cellar hole which marks the site of a house owned or occupied, for many years by Alvin Banister. Down at the foot of the hill, on the south side of the road, is the site of the cheese factory which was erected about 1866, and burned some years later. 16. Passing over the first branch of Pole Bridge Brook, and about half way up the small hill beyond, on the north side of the street, is the house now owned by George N. Chase. Former owners: John W. Robb, Lyman Warner, Mrs. Cornelia (Brewer) (Newell) Blanchard, who inherited it from her father, Calvin Brewer, who built the house in 1830, and moved into it in 1831, as I have learned from old letters in my possession. About 1800, a tannery was conducted here by Henry and Harvey (or Hervey) Howard. This is the house where the confederate flag was displayed in 1861. (See 18, North Main Street.) Some sixty or eighty rods further to the west, the street crosses the second and principal branch of Pole Bridge Brook. Fifty or seventy rods further, on the south side of the street, is the well where Phebe Ann, the three years old daughter of Benoni Atchinson, was drowned in 1830. Four comers, where Springfield Street crosses West Street. (For a description of the places, see West Street.) About half a mile west of West Street, beyond a small trac of wood-land, is the original western bounds of the Outward Commons. The line is very well defined by the stone walls, running north and south on both sides of the street. 17. On south side of street is the cellar hole which marks the site of the Lyman house, burned about 1896. The large barn The History of Wilbraham 449 is still standing. Now owned by heirs of William H. Lyman. Former owners: Wm. H. Lyman, Joel M. Lyman, (perhaps Joel Lyman). David Jones lived in this vicinity in 1755. 18. On north side of street. Now owned by Alex Boubard. Former owners: Benj. B. Brewer, Anson C. Brewer. The bridge over the brook was called "Kilboms Bridge" in 1755. 19. A little west of brook, formerly called "Worlds End Brook," now owned by Leon L. Jewell. The house was built by J. R. Peasley about 1894. 20. Ver\^ near the Springfield line. Now owned by Charles A. Brewer. Former owners: Sturtevant Merrick Co., Smith, Ackerman, Bert. Brewer, who built the house about 1890. Road to Monson. Starting on the east side of Main Street, about one-third of a mile south of the Soldiers' Monument, and going easterly towards Monson. On September 11, 1908, the Springfield Automobile Club held a hill climb on this road. A distance of one mile was marked off, beginning about twenty-five rods east of Main Street and ending forty or sixty rods west of the Ridge Road. About eight hundred automobiles were lined up along the course and between five and six thousand persons attended and witnessed the different events. The mile was made by an automobile in one minute, eight seconds, and by an Indian motorcycle in one minute and three-fifths of a second. The houses on this road are : 1. On north side of road. The first building is an old black- smith shop. Now owned by Miss Jane E. Hancock. Formerly owned and carried on by her father, Moses Hancock. It is not in use now. 2. A few rods east of the old shop. House now owned by F. D. Benton. Former owners: Asa Benton, J. Neff, Bridge, Adams, W. F. Munsell, Deane. 450 The History of Wilbraham 3. On south side of road, just beyond where the old " Meeting- house Lane" crosses the road. Now owned by Edward Evans. Former owners: Robert Conboy, Mrs. Josephine (Bliss) John- son, E. C. Colton, who built the house about 1868. 4. On north side. House now owned by heirs of Sophia Eddy. Former owners: Abial Eddy, — — Blakeledge. The house was built previous to 1870. 5. About half way to the top of the mountain. Now owned by Charles C. Beebe. Inherited from his father M. F. Beebe. Purchased by former owners as follows: Marcus F. Beebe, 1863, Brainard T. Brewer, 1845, who built the present house in 1850, Luther Brewer 1830, Thomas Merrick 1803, Gideon Burt 1802, Stephen Utley, Jr., 1801, Gideon Burt, 1770, Nathaniel Hitch- cock, 1760, who built a house there in 1766. This is one of the "Peach farms." Opposite this house a road leads to the south to the home of C. P. Bolles. A little more than a mile from Main Street, the road crosses the Ridge road at the top of the mountain and begins to descend to the east. 6. On south side of road. House now owned by Mrs. Elvira (Day) Blanchard. Former owners: L. Munsell, Dennis Knowlton. E. Tupper helped build house. 7. At the place where a road leads off southwesterly towards Hampden. House now owned by John Francovitz, Jr. Former owners: Town of Wilbraham, Betsey Webster, Mrs. Lydia (Webster) Nelson, Miles Webster, Elijah Webster, who came from Hebron, Conn., and purchased the place in 1794. The present house was built about 1817, to replace one that stood on the north side of the road. This place is on part of the over- plus land, and was sold in 1773, by the town of Wilbraham to Noah and Solomon Warriner. Much of the land, first pur- chased by Elijah Webster, has been sold by different owners. The History of Wilbraham 451 Since the above was written the house has burned. On the north side of the road W. H. Foster has recently set out the largest peach orchard in Glendale. 8. On north side of road just before it crosses East Street is the cemetery which was established previous to 1800. In 1805 the North Parish chose "Duty Partridge, Ebenezer Cadwell, I. Stebbins a Committee to fence the Burying Yard over the inountain." UUAIE OF LUTHER L. FARR. Birthplace of Judge Marcus P. Knowlton.-now of Springfield. Crossing East Street and going on easterly. 9. On north side of road. Now owned by George E. Calkins. Former owners: C. C. Day, Edson heirs. Mr. Calkins has carried on the blacksmith and wagon making business here and nearby, since about 1880. 10. Road leading off in a northeasterly direction towards Palmer. At this point the Monson road runs southerly for a short distance. 11. In the fork of the roads. House now owned by Luther L. Farr. Former owners: E. A. Day, Lorenzo Munsell, Willard 452 The History of Wilbraham F. Munsell, Merrick Knowlton, Julius Nash, Eliphalet Hancock, Moses Hancock, Zury Calkins, James Calkins. The house was built about 1800. Judge Marcus P. Knowlton of Springfield, son of Merrick and Fatima (Perrin) Knowlton, is said to have been bom in this house. About 1850 or 1860, a man was found frozen to death near this place. 12. On west side. Now owned by Charles M. Calkins. Former owners : Alanson Calkins, Luke Calkins, Mrs. Hancock, BIRTHPLACE OF DR. MARSHALL CALKINS AND DR. DAVID CALKINS. Now home of Charles M. Calkins. Dr. Marshall Calkins, son of Luke and Polly (Hancock) Calkins, was born here September 2, 1828. He has been engaged in the practice of medicine in Springfield since 1867, and been very successful. David Calkins, M.D., was also bom here. 13. On east side. Now owned by Charles M. Calkins. Former owners : Luke Calkins, • Mixter, who built the house about 1830. It was long the home of Hudson and Harrison Calkins, twin brothers. They were familiarly spoken of as "Hud and Hare." The History of Wilbraham 453 14. On east side of road. Now owned by Evanore Olds Beebe. Former owners: Anne Daniels, Marcus Daniels, Justin Daniels, Elijah Plumley, Smith, George Mixter, who was a teacher and preacher, and built the house in 1832, for a store and tavern, and it may have been used as such for a short time. Miss Beebe has made the place noted for her large and fine col- lection of antiques and china. Because of the large maple trees which beautify the highway, she has called the place Maple- hurst. (See History.) A little south of this place the road again turns to the east and continues on to Monson. There are now no other houses in Wilbraham on this road to Monson. At the point where the road turns to the east, a road leads off towards the south to Hampden. The houses on that road are: 1. On west side of road. House now owned by Charles M. Calkins. Former owners: A. Calkins, Luke Calkins. The house is now unoccupied and badly in need of repairs. 2. On east side. Now owned by Randolph Beebe. Former owners: Mrs. Sarah Gilligan, Ithimar Bliss, Nathan Mack, Daniel Chappel. Probably Nathan Mack settled here about 1785 to 1790. The first mention of the name in the Vital Records is, "Nathan, son of Nathan and Marv Mack bom Aug. 13, 1791." One day, Mary, the wife of Nathan Mack, looking out of the door, saw her little daughter sitting on the grass, playing with something in her lap. She stole quietly up behind and barely stifled a scream as she saw a large rattlesnake curled up in the girl's lap. She ran to the cabin, caught up a small tub and hurrying back dropped it down over the snake, which had started to crawl off the girl's lap, and drew the child away. The mother nearly fainted as she carried her into the cabin. The father coming home from his work, saw the tub in the yard and picked it up when out sprang the rattler, which he 454 The History of Wilbraham quickly killed with his hoe. The rattles were cut off and treasured by the little girl as she grew ..to womanhood, and many years later she gave them to her daughter, and they were kept in the family until worn out. The great-great-grand- daughter of the little girl, now lives on the same spot where the log cabin stood, and often relates this story. This is the last house in Wilbraham on this road. HOME OF RANDOLPH BKKBK Scene of the rattlesnake incident. On road going northeasterly from Luther Farrs, towards Palmer. 1. On west side of road. Cellar hole which marks the site of the Reynolds place. Now owned by George E. Calkins. Former owners: F. E. Lemon, G. M. Edson, C. E. Edson, Stephen Reynolds, who carried on the blacksmith business here for many years, and the land is now in possession of his great- great-grandson. The History of Wilbraham 455 2. On south side of road. Fred Lemon, present owner. Former owner, Charles Edson. Part of the house was formerly a cider mill. 3. On north side. Now owned by Leon J. Bennett. Former owners: L. L. Farr, E. A. Day, G. M. Edson, C. E. Edson, M. Edson, B. Edson, W. Stebbins in 1802, Caleb Stebbins, Z. Chapin. This is the last house in Wilbraham, on this road. TiNKHAM Road About one mile south of the Soldiers' Monument on the west side of Main Street, is a road leading off to the west, called the Tinkham road. Probably named after the surveyor who laid it out. 1. About fifty or seventy rods west of Main Street, on the north side of the road is the Adams cemetery. Probably so called, because of the Adams family, who have lived at the junction of this road with Main Street for more than one hun- dred years. The first occupant of this cemetery was Elizabeth Cockrill "Wo Dyed April y^ 26 1741 EAG 39." The stone at her grave is near the southeast corner of the original yard, and was erected by her brother-in-law, Samuel Warner at whose house she died. Just beyond the cemetery, on the south side of the road is a cellar which marks the site of a house which was burned about 1870. A little further west, is the site of another house which belonged to Danforth Knowlton, who went up into the Adirondacks as a guide about 1868 and died there in 1898. He inherited it from his father Manassah Knowlton, who lived there about 1850-'60. Former owner, Abel Green. 2. On south side of road. Now owned by George D. Bull, who purchased it in 1908 of Albert A. Phelps, who built the house about 1880. 3. On south side of road. Now owned by Albert A. Phelps, who built the house about 1865, and has occupied it ever since. 456 The History of Wilbraham 4. A little further west, on north side of road. Now owned by Mrs. Joseph Meyrick. Former owners: Albert Hammer, Albert Allen, who built on land purchased of Loren Phelps about 1870. 5. On south side of road. Now owned by Massachusetts Commission on Fisheries and Game and occupied by Mr. Mosher, Superintendent of the Game Farm. Former owners: , , Loren Phelps, who lived here for many years. 6. A little beyond the superintendent's place, Tinkham Road crosses West Street, and passes the house of Mrs. O'Learey at what was formerly called "The Wesson Four Corners." Theo- dore Gebo carried on the blacksmith business, in a shop just south of this house for several years, previous to 1906. 7. On south side of road. Now owned by Edgar H. Keith and Charles E. Keith. Former owners: Hiram A. Keith, Mary A. Keith, David Clark, Bennett, Wells L. Phelps, Horace Clark, Harvey Clark. On the north side of the road, is the site of a house owned by Horace Clark previous to 1842. There are now no other houses on this road in this town. Road leading east from Main Street, starting opposite Tink- ham Road. On "The Green." 1. About one hundred rods east of Main Street. On south side of road. House owned by Fred H. M. Spaight and built about 1901. 2. Now owned by John Anderson. Built about 1908. 3. On north side of road. Now owned by Clarence P. Bolles. Used for a tenement and stands in what was formerly " Meeting House Lane." 4. On south side. Home of Clarence P. Bolles. House built to replace one burned about 1900. The first minister's house stood some ten or twelve rods northwesterly of this place, and the first meetinghouse was placed some twenty or twenty-five The History of Wilbraham 457 rods southerly of this house. Fonner owners: D. Brainard Merrick, Pliny Merrick, Jr., Pliny Merrick, Rev. Noah Merrick about 1743. The road formerly continued on easterly to the Ridge Road at the top of the mountain, but was discontinued about 1850 or 1860. The Stebbins Road This is the most southerly road, running east .and west, across the town. 1. About half a mile west of Main Street. Place now owned by Mrs. Juliette (Bliss) Soule. Former owners: Albert Bliss, Milton Stebbins, Luther Stebbins. About 1850 Milton Stebbins built a saw mill here, which was used by himself and Anson Soule until about 1905, when a portion of the machinery was removed to equip a portable saw mill. These are the only buildings now on this road west of Main Street. A few rods north of the place where this road leaves Main Street, the road runs eastward up the mountain. About one-third of a mile east of Main Street. 1. On north side of road. Now owned by John J. Lyons. Former owners: John Work, Edward Bliss, David Bliss (?), Philip Lyons in 1768. Just east of the Lyons house, the road formerly ran northeasterly from this place up to the meeting- house on Wigwam Hill. This road was "new laid" in 1768, and altered in 1769. Running northerly "Past Nath. Bliss's Shop — then north by Philip Lyons House, — then about 90 rods to a staddle north of a brook — near 20 rods to a tree at northwest comer of Philip Lyons fence — then northeasterly to a tree on a hill near three rods south of a Bridge — thence to the Meeting House near 100 rods." At the Lyons house the road now turns and runs southerly for about one-third of a mile. 2. On east side of road. Now owned by heirs of James Powers. Former owners: James Brown, David Bliss, Thomas Bliss, Nathaniel BHss, in 1741. 458 The History of Wilbraham 3. On west side of road. A cellar hole which marks the site of the Charles Foskit place. Now owned by Mrs. Jennie (Foskit) Ray en. A little south of this place is supposed to be the loca- tion of the home of Samuel Stebbins about 1735. Here the road turns again to the east and continues on to Hampden line. This completes the list of farms and homes in Wilbraham. We trust that these farms may become more and more pro- ductive, and that their "beauty spots" may grow larger and more beautiful as the seasons come and pass away. And that these homes may continue to be dwelling places for happiness and love, and that the cheerful voices of the children within them, may serve to drive dull care away as the years roll along. WILLIAM H. McGUIRE. Town Clerk and Treasurer since 1908. The History of Wilbraham 459 This compass is now owned by Alonzo B. Newell of Hampden. It is said to be the one used by Lieut. Roger Newbury in his survey of the line between the Outward and Inward Commons, in 1729. ill pii®f«f liiisijis MEMORIAL TOWN HALL. As planned. INDEX OF HISTORICAL PART Abbott, Joseph, deposition of, 148. Academy, history of, 220. Academy South Wilbraham, 294 Act of Incorporation of Wilbraham, 91. Adventists, 232. Almanac for 1748, 276. Allotment of outward commons, 12. Alvord, Noah, 26. Andros, Sir Edmund, 7. Andre, Maj. John, 189. Aqueduct Co., 218, assessment of, 219. Automobiles in parade, 332. Avery, Abraham, his Presbyterian saddle, 324. Antiques, exhibitions of, 341, 348, 355. Baptists, in north village, 277, society of, organized, 277, min- ister settled, 278, meetinghouse erected, 278, in Monson and Wil- braham, 202, in South Parish, 208, petition of, 212. Baptisms, twenty-seven at one service, 170. Barker, Ezra, called "Master", 74. Barton, Phebe, spinster, 148. Beaver Dam, 19. Belcher, Jonathan, Gov., 36. Bennington Alarm, men who went, 139. Bernard Fra. Gov., 93. Bliss, Ensign Abel, commissioned, 85, house of, 76, Indian boy at, 77. Bliss, Ethelbert, peach industry, 270. Bliss, John, 132, copy from papers of, 146. Bliss Aaron, complaint against, 146. Bounties to soldiers, 127, subscribers to, 128, care of families of, 126. Brewer, Isaac, 48, for "Riging his chamber," 57, tavern of, 48, son Charles baptized, 59, Inn of Charles, 193. Burt, Dea. Moses, 27. Burying yards, fencing of 158, monuments in, 159. Business of the town, 264. Business floats in parade, 337. Cadwell, Capt. Daniel Jat Ticon- deroga, roll of his company, 139. Calkins, Dr. Marshall, 352. California Adventurers, 301. Camp meeting, 196. Cantata, 347. Celebration, history of, 329, days of. III dinner, 340, newspaper accounts of, 329, loan exhibit, 341, automobiles in parade, 332, business floats in, 337, historical floats in, 334. Cemetery, Adams, 158, Glendale, 158, Woodland Dell, 308. Cheese Factories, 269. Churches, First, history of, from 1794, 149, burned, 168, Method- ist, 190, First Baptist, 276, Second Baptist, 202, at Glendale, 279, Grace Union, 281, Christian Union, 283, Second Methodist, 283, Church of Saint Cecilia, 284. Civil War, 237, men furnished, 239, bounties, 241, return of the flags, 243, personal experiences in, 245, men in, 251, men drafted, 255. Clark, Rev. Seth, 277, Mr., donor of land for schools, 231. Clothing, 147. Crane Park, 259. Cockril, widow Elizabeth, grave of, 30. Collins Mfg. Co., 266. The Cutler Co., 266. Cutler, Henry, 345. Deed of part of Outward Commons, 3. Distillery, 414. Division of the town, 297. Drawing in schools, 290. "Dreams," 201, 315. 462 The History of Wilbraham Early Emigrants, 1. Elegy on Timothy Merrick, 81, author of, 84. Elbows or Kingstown, 74, 95. Ely, Samuel, 131. Floats in parade, 330. Fragments, 312. French war, Warner's Journal of, 86. Farms and Homes, 360. First day of celebration, 329. Game, 19, game farm, 398. Glendale, history of church, 280, incorporation of, 281, celebration at, 348. Glover, Rev. Pelatiah, 8. Grace Union Church, 281. Green, The, 142. Hampden, town of, incorporated, 298. Highways, see Roads. Historical floats in parade, 334. Hitchcock, Nathaniel, first settler, 24, John, largest subscriber to bounty money, 128. Hoe, The Old Broken, 145. Holyoke, John, 13. Houses, finish and furniture of, 31. Indian deed of Outward Commons, 3. Incorporation of Wilbraham, 91. Indians in, 20. "Inner Commons," 17. Introduction, 1. "Keeping" Saturday evening, 66. Kilborn's Bridge, 75. Kibbe, Israel, Lieut Gideon, Dr. Gideon, 79. Kingstown, 95. Knowlton, Judge, Marcus P., 349. Lamb, Daniel, 63. Langdon, John, in Shepards army, 135. Langdon, Capt Paul, roll of com- pany, 138. "Lexington Alarm," 123, roll of Warriner's Company, 138. Library, 143, shares in, 143, receipts for shares sold, 144. Loan money, 160. Loan exhibit, 341, 348. Ludlow Mfg. Associates, 266. Lyon, Marcus, murder of, 182, body found, 182, capture of murderers, 182, execution of, 185, Ballad, 185. Manchonis Pond, 16, tragedy of, 170, lease of, 180. Manufactories, domestic, 264. Maps and paintings of Wilbraham, 325. Memorial Hall, 298. Merrick, David, 29. Merrick, Dr. Samuel F., 2, journal of, 136. Merrick, Pliny, Esq., 190. Merrick, Thomas 2nd, 29, commis- sioned lieutenant, 85. Merrick, Delos D., letters of, 215. Merrick, Timothy, bitten by rattle- snake, 79, ode on, 81, different versions of ode, 82. Merrick, Rev. Noah, a candidate, 40, called to settle, 42, conditions of settlement, 42, letter of accept- ance, 43, ordination of, 44, house of, 50, marriage of, 51, his negro, 61, trouble about salary and land, 62—102, council, 103, death, 105, character of, 105, ancestry of, 105, his account book, 106, monument of, 159. Merrick, Mrs. Abigal, 51, 105. Meetinghouse, 47, materials for, 54, vote to build, history of location and erection, 55, first use of, 59, unfinished condition of, 62, wor- ship in, 65, view from, 63, seating of, 67, removing of, to street, 149, bell on, 157, end of, three loca- tions for, 58, when erected, 59. Index of Historical Part 463 Meetings, where held before build- ing meetinghouse, 57. Meetinghouse Lane, 61. Merrill, Rev. Daniel, 189. Methodists, in South Parish, 190, history of in North Parish, 190, petition for society of, 193, reply to by parishes, 194, another peti- tion for society, 197, incorporated, 197, legacy to, 197, sold pews, 198, pew attached, 198, parson- age, 199, stone church, 200, poem, historic church, 200. Mills, Stebbins', 265, Collins Mfg. Co., 267. The Cutler Co., 266, Ludlow Mfg. Associates, 266. Militia, 212. "Minister Money," 160. Ministry lots, 8, where, and dis- posal of, 71, set to the town, 71, sold, 116. Minnechaug, 19. Money, depreciation of, 125, anec- dote of, 131. Monument, soldiers', 258. "Mountains" or Outward Com- mons of Springfield, 8, division of, 13, names of proprietors, 13, Indian name of, 19, Indians in, 20, early settlers of, 24. Music in schools, 289. Newbury, Roger, survey of, record of, 17, ditches of, 18. Nine Mile Pond, tragedy of, 170, odes on, 176, lease of by the town, 180, efforts to increase the fish supply, 180, fish caught in 1881, 181, bungalows erected, 181. "Outward Commons," see Moun- tains, 8. "Overplus land," deed of to minis- ter, 38, value of, 41, set to the town, 71. Parade, 331. Parishes, 107, North, history of, 149, South Parish set oflf, 107, meetinghouse, 147, case of disci- pline, 148. Parson's Rose (The), 52. Peach industry, 269. Peggy's Dipping Hole, 32. Pepper, Calvin, oration of, 189. Pew doors, 70, leasing of pews, 157, sale of pews, 198. Physicians, 297. Preaching, money for, given by Springfield, 36. Preaching in south part refused, 107. Precinct, petition for, 33, incorpora- tion of, 36, first meeting of, 37, officers of, 37, movement to be made a town by, 60, 89. Poor, disposal of, 321. Population in 1741, 34, in 1760, 70. Postoflfice and mail stages, 368. Potashes, 265. Pound built, 47, on Springfield Street in 1812, 445. Pynchon, William, 2. Pynchon, Col. John, his lot, 9. Railroads, 214, first station, 215, anecdote of, 215, present station established, 430. Railway, electric, 300. Rebellion of 1861, spirit of the people, 238, number of men fur- nished, 255, men killed or died in, 255. Representatives, 295. Revolutionary war, 116, appeal of Boston merchants, 117, vote of town upon, 117, committee of correspondence, 118, reply to Boston appeal', 118, Gage in Boston, 120, non-consumption report, 120, signers of pledge of, 121, "minute men," 122, Lexing- ton alarm, 123, soldiers in, 138, died or killed in, 141, pensioners, 142. Rindge, Jane, diary of, 318. Roads, 31, by ministers garden, 60, Meetinghouse Lane, 61, Old Road, Worcester to Hartford, list of towns and taverns, 273. Russell, town of, 7. 464 The History of Wilbraham Second day of celebration, 342. Sessions, Sumner, woolen mill of, 264. Schools, appropriations for, 72, schoolhouse, 73, first money by town, 94, school lot, 98, districts, 98, 289, teachers, 98, books, 98, grammar schools, 288, boarding around, 287, money for, granted by Springfield before incorpora- tion, 30, 72, improvement of, 291, private, 288. Drawing, 289, instruction in music, 289, flags of, 289, table of expenses, 290, gradu- ating exercises, 291. Shaw, Capt. James, "Bennington Alarm," roll of company, 139. Shays, Daniel, insurrection of, 133. Sikes and Pease, stages of, 314. Singing, 99. Sixteen acres, 31. Slaves, 309. Soldiers, clothing for, 144, subscrip- tion to raise money for, 128, difificulty of obtaining, 126, in war of 1812, 142, in Civil war, 251. Song of the Hoe, 145. South Parish, early settlers of, 79, set off, 107, work on meeting- house, 147, set off as a town, 297, Springfield, when settled, 3, extent of, 7. Stebbins, Samuel, 27, Stebbins Road, 29, 457. Stebbins, Caleb, grant of land for his mill, 265. Supreme Court, suit in, about Loan Money, 160. Surplus Revenue, 226. Tanneries, 265. Tavern, 48, 193. Telephone, 301. Terry, Ezekiel, 188. Third day of celebration, 348. Ticonderoga, expedition to, 124. Tobacco, raising of, 268. Tories, 122. Torrey, Nathan, elegy on Timothy Merrick, 81. Toll Gate, 318. Town meeting, first, 96. Town Hall, 298. Town Crier, Frontispiece. Town Loan, 228. "Training Day," 213. Turnpike, The Wilbraham, 319. Underground railroad, 311. Valuation, 113, 250, increase in, 272. War of 1812, men sent to, 142. War, Civil, 237, return of the flags, 243, personal experiences in, 245, men in, 251, men drafted, 255. Warden, office of, 94. Warner, Daniel, 26, his daughter Comfort, 30. Warner, Samuel, 27, record kept by, 28, journal of, 86, items from, 275. Warner, James, receipts of, 314, "dream" of, 315, conductor of stage, 314. Warriner, Nathaniel, death, will of, 108. Capt. James, disburses money for building first school- house, 72, roll of his company, 138. Washout at Eleven Mile Brook, 261, newspaper accounts of, 261. Weshaugan, 21. Wigwam Hill, view from, 63. Wilbraham, Indian name of, 19, description of, 19, Indians in, 20, early settlers of, 24, petition for incorporation sent to Springfield, 90, act of incorporation, 91, name of, 93, additions to territory of, 95, population of, 96, first town meeting, 96, refuse preaching in south part, 107. Wilbraham, Turnpike, 319, Wilbra- ham Woolen Co., 424, Tories in, 122, attempt to make two towns of, 107, business of, 264, valua- tion of property in, 113, increase in valuation, 273, town clerks of, 296, representatives of, 295, divi- sion of, 297, paintings of, 325. Woodland Dell Cemetery, 308. World's End Brook, 75. INDEX OF FARMS AND HOMES OF WILBRAHAM Page Page A Bridge, William D., 444 Academy, 444 Brodeur, Frank A., 405 Alden, Carlos, 442 Cyrille, 405 Allis House, 360 Brooks, Joshua L., 416 Allyn, Ward A., 402 Bruuer, Mrs. Laura and M . L., 367 Anderson, John, 456 Bryant, Albro J., 368 Angell, F. M., 443 Bull, George D., 455 Ash, Mrs. Mary, 441 Burbank, Mrs. Elizabeth, 448 Burdon, Peter, 406 B Burts, Lane, 360 Babineau, PhiHp, 402 Butler, William, 368 Baldwin, Joseph, heirs. 433 " James K., 439, 440 " John, 434 " Joseph, 435 C Mrs. Maria, 435 Cady, Mrs. George, 438 Barcome, Charles, 403 Calkins, John A., 370 Bates, 443 " James, 419 Beebe, Charles C, 450 George E., 451, 454 " Evanore 0., 453 Charles M., 452, 453 " Randolph, 453 Cemetery, West Street, 403 Belcher, J. M., 447 " East Wilbraham, 442 Bell, A. Linden, 394 " Glendale, 451 Bennett, J, Addison, 419 Adams, 455 " Leon J., 455 Chandler, Mrs. George, 443 Benton, Flavel D., 438, 450 Chapin, Mrs. Sarah W"., 382 Bishop, Chauncey, 416 Chapin, 443 Blanchard, Mrs. Elvira, 4.50 Chase, George N., 448 Bliss, Walter M., 374 Chilson, Arthur A., 391 Ethelbert, 374 Church, Congregational, 361 " Henry M., 400 " Methodist, 378 " Levi R., heirs. 425 " Saint Cecilia, 396 Bodurtha, F. A., 400 Glendale, 414 Bolles, Clarence P., 456 Grace Union, 436 Bosworth, Mrs. Luthera E 372 " Christian Union, 442 Juliette A., 446 Clark, Edgar C, 399 Boubard, Alex, 449 Clealand, Andrew, 443 Boylan, A. L., 442 Coe, Mrs. Sarah (Adams), 372 Bradway, Nelson L, 432 Collins, W. L., estate. 433 Brewer, E. Louise, 399, 399, 401 Mfg. Co., 436, 438 Charles A., 449 Coolcy, Mrs. James C, 399 466 The History of Wilbraham Page Page Coote, Mrs. Fannie, 386 Friend, Augustus F., 429 Comstock, G. P., 447 Frost, George J., 429 Consigne, 443 Fuller, Mrs. Anna, 429 Cormack, Alexander, 425 Frank A., 433 434 Craig, John, 404 G Gates, Rev. Charles H., E. O., estate, " E. B., estate, Crane, Mrs. Laura, Cutler Co., " H. Willis, 396 395, 438 435 423 423 436 D Game Farm, State, 396 456 Damon, Dr. A. L., Day, Mrs. Martha A., Day, Robert W., Dempsey, Mary, Driscoll, Maurice, Dumane, John B., Dutille, Hermenigile, 436 387 396 429 429 404 403 Gange, Lexyebert, Gebo, Theodore, " Mrs. Edna, Gillet, Mrs. Sarah B., Gleason, E. A., Godeck, Godfrey, Mrs. Sarina E., Goodrich, William, 384 406 386 386 390 398 401 381 399 £ Grange Hall, 363 Eaton, William T., 368 Graves, Herbert H., 416 " Delbert H., 369 Green, Fred W., 361 380 Ebright, John B., 403 " Mrs. Mary (Howard), 368 Eddy, Dwight W., 416 Benj. F., 410 443 " Sophia, heirs, 450 Herbert F., 436 Edson, Mrs. Leola, 412 Mrs. Herbert F., 439 " H. I. and Clarence, 414 Henry M., 419 442 Elpert, H. and M., 421 " Mrs. Henry, 442 Ely, George W., 407, 408 " Benjamin B., 442 Evans, Edward, 450 Griswold, D. C, 443 F Faculty Street, Gurney, Mrs. Mary B., 362 381 Frank A., 379 Farr, Albert L., 414 H " James H., 414 Hancock, Jane E., 367 449 " Luther L., 451 Hardy, Charles W., 402 Files, Gardiner W., 399 Harmony Grove, 387 Fitzgerald, William, 403 Hitchcock, Charles B., 400 " Mrs. Margaret 438 Hodgkins, Louise M., 382 Flagg, Mrs. Nancy M., 384 Holland, Seymour, 402 Flanigan, James, 425 HoUingsworth, Amelia L. 419 Foskit, Mrs. Lucia S., 362 Hollister, Mrs. Julia F., 432 Foster, William H., 445 Holman, Edith A., 445 Francovitz, John, 412 Home, C. Francis, 444 John, Jr., 450 Hubbard, Charles L., 383 Index of Farms and Homes of Wilbraham 467 Page Hulmes, George W., 367 Hurd, William, heirs, 386 J Jewell, Leon L., 449 Johnson, Josephine B., 367 Jones, Edmund W., 399 K Keefe, Timothy, 436 Keith, Edgar and Charles, 456 Kelly, John, estate. 423 Kelley, John, 444 Keyes, Elias S., 367 Knowlton, George E., 366 L Lane, Marshall A., 428 Lapine, Amos, 406 Charles, 406 William, 403, 425 Leach, Clinton C, 360 Leahy, Michael, 405 Lemon, Fred, 455 Levigne, Paul L., 404 Library, 429 Lines, Thomas, 437 Liver sage, William E., 428 Lyman, Edward N., 439 " William H., heirs. 449 Lynch, Bernard, 429 Lyons, Thomas, 410 " John J., 457 M Macdowell, Edward, 404 MacLain, James G., 388 Manchonis Club, 428 McDonald, James P., 403 McFarland, Mrs. Mary, 404 McGuire, William H., 387 Merrick, Dr. Samuel F., 369 C. S. and Fannie M., 370 " Samuel F., heirs. 370 " Fannie M., 380 Page Merrill, Rev. Nathaniel, heirs, 392 Meyrick, Mrs. Joseph, 456 Metcalf, Mrs. Edna, 419 Methodist Parsonage, 379 Millard, Mrs. Beatrice L., 391 Miller, Mrs. Anna, 435 Miniter, Mrs. Edith, 410 MoUoy, John, 364 Monument Lot, 360 Moody, Carrie A., 445 Moore, Mrs. Lizzie G., 373 Mary P., 428 Morris, Robert O., 396 Morgan, Effie, 408 W. Frank, 408 " James S., 441 Mowry, Charles N., 381 William A., 394 " Mrs. Emma, 429, 432, 433, 436 Munsell, Mrs. Martha C, 362 Murphy, Thomas J., 393, 428 N Netupski, Karney, 413 Newton, Mrs. William A., 364 Newton, Fayette C, 376 Nims, Thomas H., 369 Noble, Rev. Charles, estate. 448 Northrop, Mrs. J. N., 424 O Ogilvie, David, 404 O'Leary, Timothy H., heirs, 398 P Parish, C. W., 425 Parsonage, Deacon Warriner, 364 Parsonage, Grace Church, 435 Patterson, Mrs. Edith (Ely), 407 Patch, William V., 393 Pease, George W., heirs, 370 " Jerome, 372 " Dr. James M., 401 468 The History of Wilbraham Page Page Pease, Clarence E., 401 Schoolhouse, District 2, 405 " Gilbert H., 402 3, 372 Peck, Chauncey E., 377, 379 4, 446 " Anna A., 445 5, 409 Peggy's Dipping Hole Road, 402 6, 441 Pellerine, Louis, 406 7, 413 Perry, George F., 404 8, 395 " George, 406 Seaver, AUyn M., 415 " J- M., 396, 434 Sherwin, Mrs. James S., 399 " Mrs. Inez, 441 Smith, Arthur F., 391 Phelps, Fred C., 419 " 441, 443 Albert A., 455 Soule, Mrs. Juliette, 457 PhiUips, A. H., 376 Speight, Mrs. Addie S., 371 Pickens, Mrs. Martha R., 372 Fred H. M., 456 Poolroom, 438 Stacy, Louis G., 409 Potter, Charles S., 410 Starr, J. Herbert, 382 Powers, Dennis, heirs, 395 Steadman, W. H., 443 " Michael, estate. 403 Stephens, Edward M., 364 " John W., 425 Mrs. Ellen M., 387, 446 John, 429 Swain, John, 402 " James, heirs, 457 Sweeny, Mrs. Daniel, 428 Principal's House, 381 T R Thompson, Mrs. William, 368 Railroad Station, 430 " Ernest L., 430 Rauh, Nichols, 401 Toll Gate, 438 Rayen, Mrs. Jennie F., 372, 457 Torrey, Albert W., 391 Reader, John H., 391 Towne, E., 403 Rice, Lee W., 370 372, 373 Towne, Mrs. F. A., 428 " Jesse L., 373 Trask, Robert P., 395 " J. Wilbur, 373 Tripp, Lewis C, 428 William A., 446 Tupper, Herbert E., 409 " George W., 446 Rich Hall, 381 V Rindge, George L., 419 Vinton, Charles W., 441 Ripley, Mrs. Isabel, 366 W Ritchie, Tames, 444 Robbins, Mrs. Calvin G., 385 Wade, Marshall C, 365, 367 Rogers, William G., 384 Wadsworth, Fred, 448 Rose, George C, 425 Wallace, William N., 402 Wall, Mrs. Frances, 435 S Warren, Mrs. Lizzie, 430 Sackett, Richard J., 365 Warren & Bradway, 439 Schoolhouse, District 1, 400 Warriner, A. L., 439 I Index of Farms and Homes of Wilbraham 469 Page Page Watering Tank, 374 Whitney, William, 411 Welch, Mrs. Rose M., 392 Willis, Rev. Josiah G., 369 Robert, 402 ^ Wright, Emily, 384 White, Mrs. Lena S., 400 \ Wynn, Mrs. Jane, 446 Mrs. R. F.. 444 ^ ^ 0°^^°.^ %^ .--^'^^ ,H f.. .0 <: .■5>' ^ ^ ^.^ •^. c"^' ..i*::'*:^* ^. .^' "h Q< ° '^ ,^^ -^'t ., ^ '' ,. -^ ^^■ ^/ C' c*-, /^ ^"^^^^ '^P A^ *^ -'X ^■^ -^. ..r ■ 0' V ,0 ^;>' ^h*' %. \' 0_ V :§^ ,^^^ "oo^ .\V '^ X""Vr ">. '\^ .^'^,^'l\ %