Qass_. Book-- / THE NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER; ^ CONTAINING DESCRIPTIONS OF ALL THE STATES, COUNTIES AND TOWNS IN DESCRIPTIONS OF THE PRINCIPAL, MOUNTAINS, RIVERS, LAKES, CAPES, BAYS, HARBORS, ISLANDS, AND FASHIONABLE RESORTS WITHIN THAT TliRRrrORY. ALPHABETICALLY ARRANGED. By JOHN HAYWARD, Author of the Columbian Traveller, Religious Creeds, - ^^v^ Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1839, by JOHN HAY WARD, in the Clerk's Office of the District Court in Massachusetts. 3 ^ S^ 1 / STEREOTYrED aKD PRINTED BY WILLIAM WHITE, CONCORD, N.H. ^ ^. .- PREFACE. The preparation of a Gazetteer of New England, worthy the patronage of its enlightened citizens, is no easy task : those only who have attempted it can form a just conception of its difficulties. Long and wearisome journeys must be performed ; hundreds of volumes and local histories must be consulted, and thousands of letters must be written. Although a kind Providence has blessed the editor with health, and with numerous friends, in all parts of New England ; yet, after a long period of devotedness, he is mortified that his work is not more complete. It will be perceived that there are many towns, particularly in the eastern section of New England, whose names are merely mentioned ; and that notices of others, in many cases, are exceedingly deficient. Had our means permitted, fair representations of the character and resources of those towns might have promoted individual and public interests ; and enhanced the value of our volume. There arc lakes and rivers in the northern and eastern parts of New England, whose beauty, volume of water, and hydraulic power, might vie with the Winnepisiogee and Mer- rimack; but whose locations and even names are but indistinctly known. But we have the consolation to believe that a Gazetteer of New Eng- land, perfect in all its parts, is rather desired than expected. Our coun- try is new : large portions of the territory of the New England States, are yet a wilderness, and new counties and towns are very frequently constituted. The proo-ress of agricultural science, and of the mechanic arts ; the advancement of commerce, both at home and abroad, and the increasing success of the fisheries, united with the determination of the people ot New England to connect the trade of the western oceans with their Atlantic borders, by roads of iron, which frosts cannot impede, are so great and strong, that the most devoted geographical and statistical writers must be satisfied with following at a distance, rather than keeping pace with the rapid car of improvement in New England. Al In the performance of our work we have derived assistance from many valuable maps and books on New England. Among the number a re- spectful tribute is due, particularly, to Belkjvap's History of New Hampshire; Williamson's Maine; Dwight's Letters; Savage's Winthrop; Thatcher's Plymouth; Folsom's Saco and Biddeford ; Benton and Barrey's Statistics :— Hale's Map of New England; Stevens' Rhode Island; Carrigain's New Hampshire ; and Green- leaf's Maine: — to Worcester's Gazetteer; Thompson's Vermont; Pease and Niles' Rhode Island and Connecticut; Spofford's Mas- sachusetts, and Farmer and Moore's Gazetteer of New Hampshire. From the latter Work, and from its authors, the lamented John Far- mer, Esq., a celebrated antiquarian and writer, and Jacob B. Moore, Esq., of Concord, N. H., author of several valuable historical and mis- cellaneous works, we are indebted for much of that which is valuable in regard to New Hampshire. From a beautiful volume, entitled " Connecticut Historical Collec- tions," by John Warker Barber, Esq., we have been permitted to enrich our pages with some of their most valuable and interesting ar- ticles. To Heads of Departments at Washington, and to the Secretaries of the several States to which the work refers, for valuable public documents ; to Postmasters; and to numerous other friends who have kindly assisted us in our labors; whose names we should feel proud to mention, were it in accordance with their wishes; we tender the acknowledgments of a grateful heart. For the purpose of enlarging our work, as well as for its correction, our editions will be designedly small : contributions are therefore respect^ fully solicited. While it is our determination to devote our time and humble talents to render our publications worthy of general approbation ; we are gratified with the assurance of co-operation from eminent men in all parts of the country; and we trust with confidence to receive that patronage, which Yankees, both at home and abroad, invariably bestow on every effort whose obvious design is usefulness. Boston, April, 1839. THE NORTHERN REGISTER. It was our intention to have connected this publication with the Gaz" ETTKER ; but it was found that by compressing the matter, sufficiently to unite them in one volume, both would fail of the object contemplated. A great mass of materials for the Register is already received ; indeed, a considerable portion is now ready for the press ; but as we have extend- ed our plan, some months will elapse before its appearance. The work will comprise the rise and progress of all the important lit- erary, religious, moral and charitable institutions in New England : — an account of the Churches and Ministers in the several towns, from their origin, and settlement to the present time : — the rise and extent of internal improvements : — statistics of various kinds : lists of Courts, At- torneys at law, Physicians, Literary and Religious Journals, Newspa- pers, Banks, Postmasters, &c. &c. : to which will be added brief notices of distinguished men. In short, the Register is designed to comprise all that may be considered important and useful,in a work of this kind, in relation to New England, and which is not contained in the Gazetteer. The number of eminent mpn, of every profession, who have kindly tendered the Editor their co-operation, is so great, that we feel confident that the Register will be entitled to a share of public favor. in' -^11 letters and papers for the Editor, are requested to be left at the Boston Post Office. NEW ENGLAND. Iif presenting the public with a Gazetteer of New England, it has seemed proper to make a few introductory remarks of a general nature, on the character of its inhabitants. They may with great propriety be called a peculiar people : and perhaps New England and Pennsylvania are the only parts of the new world, which have been colonized by a class ol men, who can be regarded in that light. The whole of Spanish and Por- tuguese America was organized, under the direct patronage of the mother countries, into various colonial governments, as nearly resembling those at home as the nature of the case admitted. The adventurers who sought their fortunes beyond the sea, in those golden tropical regions, carried the vices and the virtues with the laws and the manners of their native land, along with them, and underwent no farther change than was unavoidably incident to the new physical and political condition in which they were placed in America. The same remark, with nearly the same force, may be made of the Virginia colonists : they differed from Englishmen at home in no other way, than a remote and feeble colony must of necessity diSer from a powerful metropolitan state. Pennsylvania was settled by a peculiar race ; but its peculiarity was of that character which eventu- ally exhausts itself; and would speedily perish but for an amalgamation, necessary though uncongenial, with the laws, the manners, and institu- tions of the world. If all mankind were Friends they might subsist and prosper. A colony of Friends, thrown upon a savage shore and environed by hostile influences from foreign colonial establishments, would perish, if not upheld by forces and principles different from its own. In the set- tlers of New England alone we find a peculiar people ;— but at the same time a people whose peculiarity was founded on safe practical principles; reconcileable with the duties of life ; capable of improvement in the pro- gress of civilization, and of expanding into a powerful state, as well as of animating a poor and persecuted colony. NEW ENGLAND. Had not America been discovered and a tract upon our continent reserv- ed for English coloniz;ition ;— nay, further, had it not been precisely such an uninviting spot as furnished no temptation to men of prosperous fortunes, the world would have lost that noble developement of character which the fathers of New England exhibit. A tropical climate would have made it uninhabitable to Puritans; or rather would have filled it up with adventurers of a di/Terent class. A gold mine would have been a curse to the latest generation. Had the fields produced cotton and sugar, they would not have produced the men whom we venerate as the founders of the liberties of New England. Puritanism sprang up in England, but there it could not develope itself with vigor or consist with happiness. T!ie conflict with the hostile in- stitutions of society was too sharp, and adn)ittcd of the culiivation of none but the militant or patient elements of character. To struggle with temporary success and to bow in permanent subjection was the necessary fate of the persecuted sect. So it was wisely ordained. Had Puritan- ism permanently mastered the church and the throne in England, it would have been corrupted. It would have picked up and worn tlie trampled diadem : it would have installed itself in the subjected church. Regarding Cromwell and the Rump Parliament as the gift of Puritanism to English liberty, it is a bequest at which we know not whether most to sigh or smile. The seed sown in England fell by the way side and the fowls came and devoured it up. The cause of political and social reform, which was conducted with self-denying wisdom and moderation in the outset, by single-hearted, honest men, degenerated as it prospered. In the moment of its triumph it sunk under the corruptions of selfish- ness, as a noble vessel which has braved the tempest in mid-ocean some- times goes to pieces on the rocks as it approaches land. But the precious seeds of liberty, civil and religious, which were sown in New England, fell upon a genial soil, and brought forth worthy and abiding fruit. Undertaking the same work which was undertaken by their brethren in England, our fathers conducted it through the days of small things, through hardships, trial, and disasters, to a triumphant issue. It is true there were greater obstacles to be encountered in England, in the resistance of established institutions. Deep rooted errors were to be torn up; the towers of feudal oppression, which had stood for centuries, were to be overthrown. But the influence of these formidable institutions was not limited to Old England. The rod of arbitrary power reached across the Atlantic. The little colonies had to struggle with the crown and the hierarchy, with the privy council and with special commissions, with writs and acts of parliament ; and they had besides to struggle with the NEW ENGLAND. hardships of the wilderness, the dangers of the savage foe, of a sterner climate than that of their native hind, the privations of a settler's life, the alternating neglect and oppression of the mother country ;— but they struggled successfully with all. The reformers of abuses in England, as they^claimed to be called, brought a king to the block, scattered a house of lords, and saw their great military leader clothed with all the power? of state ; and in twelve years the son of that king returned to the throne, not merely by an unconditional restoration, but amidst a jubilee of na- tional rejoicing and without one security for liberty. All the while the fathers of New England held on their even way; not betrayed into extravagance when their cause at home (as they fondly called Old Eng- land) was triumphant ; nor in despair at the miserable relapse which en- sued. They did not indeed live to reap the fruit of their principles and their sacrifices ; and it reflects but the greater honor upon them that they persevered in their great work fro.m a sense of duty, deep-seated, con- trolling, fearless, and not the less so although, while they lived, unre- warded by worldly success. In fact the founders of New England were actuated by the only prin- ciple sufficient to produce this result. It need not be said that this was religious principle. How easily it is uttered of our Pilgrim fathers that they were actuated by religious principle ; how little in these prosper- ous days do we realize all that is wrapped up in that description of their character ! It is difficult to comprehend of others what we have not experienced in ourselves. That easy frame of mind which prevails among a highly favored people, in periods of halcyon prosperity, is scarcely capable of being placed in sympathy with the moral heroism, the spir- itual courage, the sublime equanimity of a generation truly animated by the religious principle, exalted by persecution, and purified by hard- ship. Happy if in such a period we can, by diligent contemplation of the venerated men of other days, exalt our imaginations, till by conceiving we form a desire to imitate their virtues! In proportion as we do this, we shall realize the secret of their perseverance and success. They did all things through Christ strengthening them. What cannot man do when he has learned habitually and distinctly to regard this life as a preparatory scene,— a brief hour,— nay a fleeting moment, introductory to an eternal being? The fathers of New England were enabled, with their scanty means and feeble powers, to establish the foundation of institutions which will last to the end of time, for the very reason that they regarded all hu- man interests and delights as transitory. That paradox in our moral na- tures which educes strength out of weakness, triumph out of self-denial, worldly power and success out of a stcru preference of things not of NEW ENGLAND. this world, received its most illustrious conlirmation in the career of the pilgrim fathers of New England. This principle of our natures is the key to the great problem of the success which attended the forlorn hope of humanity that landed on these shores. There is indeed a fanaticism, which violates all the laws of our nature, alike the higher ulterior principles which belong to an immortal spirit, and the humbler influences which grow from the rela- tions of ordinai-y life. It leads to surprising deeds; it forms characters which dazzle us with brilliant eccentricities. It is near allied tomad- ness ; often runs into it. But the religiousness of the fathers of New England was a far different principle. It was eminently ^racftcaZ. It allied itself with wise institutions of government; it sought the guidance of education ; it encouraged the various pursuits of industry ; it provided for the public safety and defence ; and with chaste discrimination admit- ted the courtesies of polished life. It is difficult to say what sort of a commonwealth George Fox would have founded, had circumstances call- ed him to assume the province of the legislator. It is most certain, that in setting up an immediate divine inspiration as the guide of every man, he maintained a pjinciple at war with the very idea of a politcal system and all its institutions ; nor is it less certain that the constitution which was actually granted to Pennsylvania, by its pure and noble-spirited pro- prietor, possessed little of the peculiarities of his sect but their niild, peaceful, and equitable temper. But the fathers of New England stop- ped short of the point where solemn conviction passes into enthusiasm. They pursued the ordinary occupations of life, planted the field, built vessels and navigated the sea, and carried on the usual mechanic arts. They made provision for protection against the Indians and the French. They organized a plan of civil government; they established by law a system of common school education, for the first time in the history of the, world, and they founded a college for the avowed purpose of training up a class of educated men, we!! qualified to talie the place of the learned and pious minister's who had emigrated with the first generation of pil- grims. These are the doings of intelligent and practical men, not of en- thusiasts or fanatics ; an 1 yet they are the doings of men so resolutely bent upon tlie exercise of the right of worshipping God according to the dictates of their consciences, that they were willing to sacrifice to it home, fortune, and all that tiie mass of men hold dear. To say that the fathers of New England were not faultless, is merely to say that they were men; to say that they established no institutions, the oljject of which was to bind the consciences of their successors is praise asjust as it is high. If they adhered with undue tenacity to their NEW ENGLAND. own opinions, and failed in charity towards those who differed, they at least left their posterity free, without the attempt to secure before hand the control of minds in other ages by transmitted symbols and tests. Hu- manity mourns over the rigors practised towards Roger Williams, the Quakers, and the unhappy persons suspected of witchcraft ; but let it not be forgotten that, as late as 1719, a witch was executed at Wurzburg, and that even in 1760 two women weve thrown into the water in Leices- tershire, in England, to ascertain by their sinking or swimming whether they were witches. Above all, it may deserve thoughtful enquiry, before we condemn the founders of New England, whether a class of men less stern in their principles and austere in their tempers, could have accom- plished, under all the discouragements that surrounded them, against all the obstacles which stood in their way, the great work to which Provi- dence called them, — the foundation of a family of republics, confederated under a constitution of free representative government. There is every reason to believe, great and precious as are the results of their principles, hitherto manifested to fhe world, that the quickening power of those principles will be more and more displayed, with every leaf that is turned in the book of Providence. That part of the United States denominated New Ejntgland, compri- ses BIX STATES, SIXTY ONE COUNT I ES , and TW EL, VE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY TOWNS. Their extent, divisions, and population at several periods, are as follows : ca 7| 2 c ■v "3 TS -3 'S t: e ■^ •o ■zs •c •3 5 n ►J - - - = ? CO o •" Me. N. H. Vt. Mass. R I. Ct. 32,000 9 2S0 10,212 7,-500 1,330 ■4.6T4 165,02' 341 95,540 151,719 224 141,835 133,858 237 83,539 1.4,465 3.16 378,787 4 !?,'^45 31 CS,32.5 G.>,\i-2 130 2?,7.946 231,002 \,IS: 1 On;i 52:i ', 3:!.nll 228,705 214,460 217,S95 472 041 7.i,93l 2fi 1,942 4" I. '173 298,336 2-14,161 235,764 .'5,i3,287 83,059 275,202 393,43; 269, 32;^ 280,657 GI0,40S 97,19;» 297.675 l.fi.")!l,-^ll^tI,'l.54.T04 476,054 288,746 Slt-jOS-l 701,331 108, "6u .304.755 2 I' -3:1 The population of Maine and Massachusetts, in 1837, is given as by a census taken in that year. The population of New Hampshire, Ver- mont, Rhode Island and Connecticut, for 1837, is estimated according to the ratio of increase, from 1820 to ISoO. NEW ENGLAND. In 1830, there were in New England 1,112 persons deaf and dumb ; 798 blind, and 18,668 aliens. The number of colored persons in 1820, was 20,782—1830, 21,310. New England increased in population, from 1790, to 1800, 22.1 per cent: from 1800, to 1810, 19.3 per cent: from 1810, to 1820, 12.7 per cent: from 1820, to 1830, 17.7 per cent; and from 1830, to 1S37, 12.4 cent. When it is considered, that most of the western states were origi- nally peopled by New Englanders, and that vast numbers annually emi- grate to those states, this increase of population is favorable, compared with other Atlantic states. The population of New England in 1700, is stated at 120,000 ; in 1755, at 345,000 j and in 1775, at 714,000. Boundaries and extent. This territory is bounded north and northwest by Lower Canada, about 375 miles, and east by the Province of New Brunswick, 275 miles. Its whole eastern, southeastern and southern borders are washed by the Atlantic ocean and the waters of Long Island Sound, a distance of about 600 miles. It is bounded west by the state of New York, 280 miles. Its circumference is about 1,530 miles. New England is situated between 41^, and 48° 12' north latiuue, and 65° 55', and 74° 10' west longitude from Greenwich. Its greatest length is between the sources of the Madawaska, Me., and Greenwich, Ct., about 575 miles; and its greatest breadth is between Machias, Me., and Highgate, Vt., 300 miles. Its narrowest part is between Boston and West Stockbridge, Mass., 133 miles. Name. During the unsuccessful attempts of Sir Wal-ter Raleigh to plant colonies within the territory of North America, from 1584 to 1587, the whole country was called Virginia, in honor of Queen Elizabeth, who was then on the British throne. In 1606, James I. divided the country into two sections, JVorth and South Virginia; hut the French having taken possession of the Canadas, and founded Quebec, in 1603, and the Dutch having established colonies at New York and Albany, in 1613, the intermediate territory, now the New England States, was called New England, in compliment to its luxuriance and beauty, and in honor to his native land, by the celebrated John Smith, one of the first settlers of Virginia, in 1607; and who visited this coast in 1614. The New England people are frequently called Yankees We are warranted in stating, from the best authority, that of the late learned Heckew ELDER, that the Lena Lenape, a tribe of Indians belonging to the Six Nations, on the arrival of our fore fathers to these shores, pro- nounced the word English, Vengees. The word was thus oi-iginally spelt, but in the course of years, in common with thousands of other Indian names and phrases, it became corrupted to Yankee. The first NEW ENGLAND. settlers of New England were English, or Englishmen, from Old Eng- land ; and however the term Yankee, or English, may be applied to New Englanders — the descendants of the Puritans consider the terra honorable to themselves, and reproachful only to those who misap- ply it. Surface, Soil and Productions. New England is distinguish- ed for its varied surface. Mountains in immense ranges, bold spurs, and solitary eminences ; beautiful swells, extended vallej's, and alluvial intervales meet the eye in every direction. Large rivers, unrivalled for their rapid courses and hydraulic power; brooks, rivulets, expansive lakes, countless ponds; and a sea coast of more than six hundred miles, decorated with delightful bays, harbors, and romantic islands, form and beautify the outline of a picture of New England. The soil of New England is as varied as its surface. Loam, clay, and sand exist in all their varieties and mixtures. The soil most gener- ally diffused through this country, is a light brown loam, mixed with gravel ; fitted, in different degrees of moisture and dryness, for every production common to the climate; and capable, with proper culture, of the highest fertility. The agricultural productions of this country are exceedingly numer- ous and valuable. The staple articles, and such as are cultivated in all their varieties, are grass, Indian corn, wheat, rye, barley, oats, beans, peas, flax, hemp, broom corn, millet, potatoes, onions, beets, carrots, turnips, squashes, melons, &.c. The fruits of New England, both wild and cultivated, are also nu- merous and abundant. Apples, pears, peaches, plums, cherries, quin- ces, grapes, in all their varieties; walnuts, chesnuts, Madeira nuts, butternuts; strawberries, whortleberries, blackberries, mulberries, rasp- berries, &c. This is but the commencement of a list of the fruits, plen- tiful in New England, and remarkable for their richness and flavor. The forests of New England exhibit a noble variety of trees, not only delightful to the eye, but valuable for all the uses of man. The number of these is so great that a catalogue of them would cover pages. — Among the most valuable are the varieties of the pine, cedar, oak, wal- nut, spruce, maple, beech, birch, ash ; the hemlock, hacmatack, elm, fir, &c. The botanical resources of New England are not inferior to any other section of our country. Among the most beautiful native flowering shrubs are the laurel, rose, honeysuckle, and woodbine. Mineralogy. New England unquestionably possesses a vast and NEW ENGLAND. rich variety of minerals ; but until recently its people have been too busy in ploughing the ocean, or digging on its surface, to search for treasures within the bosom of its hills and valleys. A spiritof exploration how- ever, has arisen, which promises the most favorable results. Learned and indefatigable men are in the field, and the wisdom of our legislatures will keep them there. Granite or sienite, in all its varieties, are common in all the states: marble of various hues, varying in quality, most of which, bearing a fine polish, is abundant; coal is found in various places, and strongly sus- pected to exist in others. Peat is abundant on Cape Cod, where there is no wood ; and it is found in meadows surrounded by forests. Copper exists in various parts of New England; and iron ore, of a pure quality, is abundant in various sections of the country. Gold and silver are said to exist, but we hope cot. Fine clay, sandstone, manganese ; slatestone, for roofing buildings ; and various other articles for necessary use are abundant. Garnets, cobalt, rock crystals, and other minerals have been discovered in various parts of New England, and which are men- tioned under their localities within the volume. Climate. The climate of New England is exceedingly various: the temperature ranges from 15° below the zero of Fahrenheit to 95° above. The mercury has been known to descend from 20° to 30° below, and to 102° above ; but such cases rarely occur. European philosophers have imagined that the coldness of this part of America was caused by our northwest winds, proceeding, as they have thought, from the great lakes, which are situated in the interior of North America : but since it has been discovered that the great lakes lie west- ward of the true N. W. point, that opinion has been exploded. A second cause to which the coldness of these winds has been attribu- ted, is a chain of high moiuitainf running from southwest to northeast, in Canada and New Britain, at a great distance beyond the St. Lawrence. A third opinion is that of the venerated Dr. Holyoke, of Salem, who supposed that the numerous evergreens in this country are the source of the peculiar cold which it experiences. A fourth opinion is, that the coldness of these winds proceeds from the forested state of the country. Dr. Dvvight entertained an opinion different from all those we have men- tioned, viz : that the winds which generate the peculiar cold of this country descend, in most cases, from the superior regions of the atmos- phere. The N. W. wind rarely brings snow, but when it does, the de- gree of cold is increased. The deepest snows fall with a N. E. wind, and storms from that quarter are most violent and of longest duration. On the mountains, the snow falls earlier and remains later than in the low NEW ENGLAND. grounds. On those elevated summits, the winds have greater force in driving the snow into the long and deep gullies of the mountains, where it is so consolidated, as not to be dissolved by the vernal sun. Spots of snow are seen on the south sides of mountains as late as May, and on the highest till July. A southeast storm is often as violent, but com- monly shorter, than one from the northeast. If it begin with snow, it soon changes to rain. A brisk wind from the W. or S. W. with snow or rain, sometimes happens, but its duration is very short. Squalls of this kind are common in March. One of the greatest inconveniences suffered by the inhabitants of our country, is derived from the frequent changes in the state of the atmos- phere The temperature has been known to change 44° in twenty four hours. Changes are frequent, though seldom in the same degree. Changes from wet to dry, and from dry to wet, are at times unpleasant, and probably unhealthy. There is no month in the year which is not sometimes very pleasant, and sometimes disagreeable. In a series of years, our most pleasant months are June, September and October. Often the first two, and not unfrequently the first three weeks in Sep- tember are. however, very warm. From the 20th of September to the 20th of October, the weather is delightful. The temperature is mild, the air is sweet, and the sky singularly bright and beautiful. This is the period denominated the Indian Summer. Some persons think June to be a more pleasant month than either September or October. In June, there are usually a few days of intense heat. In all other respects, except the brilliancy and beauty of the heavens, this month must be confessed to have the superiority over all others. The progress of vege- tation is wonderful ; and it seems as if the creative hand was, in a literal sense, renewing its original plastic efforts, to adorn the world with richness and splendor. All things are alive and gay. " The little hills rejoice on every side. The pastures are clothed with flocks. The valleys are also covered with corn, and shout for joy." Health at the same time prevails in a peculiar degree. The Spring is often chilled by easterly winds and rendered uncomforiable by rains. The Winter months, when the earth is clad with its mantle of snow, is the season for relaxa- lion and pleasure. The number of fair days in a year compared with the cloudy, is as three to one. We have had but few meteorological journals kept. For several years past they have become more frequent, and it is hoped, that from the increasing attention to the subject, comparative results of the weather will become more numerous and exact. Navigation and Commerce. The people of New England, from the first settlement of the country to the present time, have been 1* NEW ENGLAND. celebrated for their fine ships, nautical prowess, and commercial spirit. Their extended Atlantic sea coast, and their noble forests of ship timber, give them as great, if not greater facilities for these enterprises, than can be found in this or any other country. The number of vessels built in the United States in 1833, was 1,188; tonnage, 161,626 tons; of which there were built in New England 590: tonnage, 95,146. The number of seamen employed in navigation in the United States, was 67,744, of which 37,142 belonged to New England. In consequence of the absence of both natural and artilicial channels to the fertile countries on the borders of the great lakes, and west of the Alleghany mountains, the exports and imports of New England, compar- ed with the whole of the United States, appears small ; but it must be borne in mind that a large proportion of the ships and seamen employed in this commerce belong to New England, and that a vast amount of the exports from other states consist of the products of the manufacturing industry and fishery of that section of the country. The value of the imports of New England, during the year ending 30 September, 1837, was $22,052,414. Exports, $11,878,324. The total value of the imports of the United States, in that period, was $140,989,217; of exports, $117,419,376. During that period the American tonnage of New England, entered, compared with that of the United States, was as follows : New England, 1,944 vessels, 393,877 tons: United States, 6,024 vessels, 1,299,720 tons. During that time there were 949 vessels built in the United States ; tonnage, 122,987 tons ; of which 389 were built in New England, meas- uring 51,983 tons. Fishery. This important branch of industry, and one of the great- est sources of wealth to the American people, has, from time immemo- rial, been almost exclusively carried on by New England vessels, men, and capital. In 1837, there were 508 vessels in the United States engaged in the whale fishery ; the total tonnage was 127,239 tons ; of which number 459 belonged to the New England states ; measuring 115,194 tons. The same year there were 127,678 tons employed in the cod and mackerel fishery ; 126,963 tons of which were owned in New England. Manufactures. From the first settlement of the country, to the general peace in Europe in 1815, New England was emphatically a com- mercial country. During the long wars in Europe, when the flag of the U. S. was the only passport among the belligerent nations, New England ships became the carriers of almost the whole of the eastern NEW ENGLAND. continent. The change from war to peace, in Europe, sliook New Eng- land to its centre. It however stood firm. During a pause, in which conflicting interests in regard to the tariff on imports were settled, the resources of the country were examined, and it was found that a large por- tion of the capital which had been accustomed to float on every gale ; and subjected to the caprice of every nation, might profitably be employed at home, in supplying our own necessities, and placing our independence on a more sure foundation. A manufacturing spirit arose in New England, whose power can only be excelled by the magnitude and grandeur of in- numerable streams on which it is seen to move. Our statistics on this highly important subject are exceedingly imper- fect : those only of Massachusetts are attempted to be given. When we find that every state in New England are making rapid advances in this branch of our national wealth, particularly Rhode Island and Connecti- cut ; and that the amount of manufactures in Massachusetts, in a single year, was $86, 282, 616, we may safely indulge the pleasing hope that the period is not distant when our exports will exceed our imports, and that our work shops will no longer remain in Europe. .^ ITEMS. There are several items in this volume which do not strictly pertain to the general character of the work. Some of them arc here noted. Routes to the White Mountains. - See Uldte Mountains Distances on Long Island Sound and Hudson river, Long I. Sound. Saratoga and Ballston Springs, - - W''"'^ Mountams. Lake George, N. Y., - - * Whitehall, N. Y., - - " " ' xr ■ The North Eastern Boundary Question briefly stated, Maine Confidence in God, Troy, N. Y., New Lebanon Springs, N. Y., Firmness of mind, Catskill Mountains, N.Y., A venerable minister, Curious Courtship, Bay of Fundy, St. John's, N. B., A Cono-regation made Prisoners, Brave Women, Dustan's Island, Gorham, Me., and Dorchester, Mass. , , , . . Dalton, J\\ H. A good snot, - " J /-. GofTe and Whalley, - Hadley, Mass., and Woodbridge, Ct Sharon, Ct. Long Island Sound. Hancock, Mass. Stamford, Ct. Long Island Sotind. Hartford, Ct. Lyme, Ct. Fuudy, Bay. Darien, Ct. Peddling, The" Old Black Bull," Prices of sundry articles in 1750, Faithful Missionaries, Burning of Fairfield, Mount Auburn Cemetery, Transplanting fish, Obookiah, - - - Large Apple Tree, Thermometrical observations, Fortunate Stageman, Tribute to female character, Large Pines, Generals Allen and Stark, General Putnam and the Wolf, Alexanders'' Lake, and Berlin, Ct. Colchester, Ct. Gorham, Me. Roxbury, Mass., and Huddam, Ct. Fairfield, Ct. Cambridge, Mass. Fairlee and Whiting, Vt. Cornwall, Ct. Duxbury, Mass. Epping, A''. H. Belchertown, Mass. Ledyard, Ct. Liberty and JN'orridgewock, Me. Litchfield, Ct., and Manchester, J\^. H. Pomfret, Ct. Tornadoes, Warner and J\''ew London, JS'. H., and Winchendon, Mass. ITEMS. Meteoric Stones, Story of the Frogs, Smart Old Men, A modest office seeker. See Weston, Ct. Windham, Ct. JJIiitingham Vt., and Shutesbury, Mass. Stratford, JV. H. Land Title settled by combat, ... Lyme, Ct. The " Devils Den," a good ice house, - Sterling, Ct. Large Trout, - - - - Strong, Me. Floating Islands, - .Atkinson, A'. H., Oiad IVliitingham, Vt. Singular motive for marriage, - - Wethersfield, Ct. "Lovewell's Fight," ... Fryehurgh, Me. Curious Epitaphs, - - - Dorchester, Mass. Poised Rock, ... Farmington, JV. H. A Turtle well marked, Mohegan Village, A relic of olden times, The Newr Hampshire Giant, " Purgatory Cavern," Ice Beds, " Satan's Kingdom," Names of Towns, A " South Shore" White oak, Tak, a slave, the captor of a British General, Horrible butchery of a family, Penobscot Indians, ... "The Pool," First mail stage in the United States, Indian Mound, . . . . George III. and John Adams, The Hermitess, ... Tough words for stammerers. Mineral Springs, Avalanches, Autumnal Foliage, A worthy maiden Lady, A Connecticut river law suit, The Drum Rock, An atrocious murder. MiddleboroHgh, Mass. Montville, Ct. Ashford, Ct. JVew Market, JV. H. Sutton, Mass. Wallingford, Vt. JVew Hartford, Ct. JVorth Bridgeicuter, Mass. Plympton, Mass. Tiverton, R. I. Wethersfield, Ct. Orono, Me. Oxford, Ct. Shrewsbury, Mass. Ossipee, JV. H. Quincy, Mass. Ridgefield, Ct. Roxbury, and Webster, Mass. Stafford, Ct., and Hopkinton, Mass. I'Vliite Mountains. Taunton, Mass. Wethersfield, Ct. Warwick, R. I. Washington, Ct. Wenham, Mass. A New England Clergyman of 1686, Ancient Epitaphs, Plymouth, Mass., and Windsor, Ct. A runaway pond, .... Glover, Vt. Lake scenery, " ^ _. " Winnepisiogee Lake^ NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Abbot, Me. Piscataquis co. This town lies 76 miles N. by E. from Augusta, 130 N. by E. from Portland, and about 40 N. N. E. from Norridse- wock. It is bounded N. by Mon- son, E. by Guilfoi'd and S. by Park- man. The Pisoataquis river passes nearly through its centre. It was incorporated in 1827. Population, 1S37, 649. Abiugtou, Z^Iass. Plymouth co. This town is on the high land between Massachu- setts and Narraganset bays. Three rivers rise here, two of which emp- ty into the Taunton, the other into the North. It lies 19 miles S. S. E. from Boston, 22 N. \V. from Plj^m- outh, 18 N N. E. from Taunton, and 8 S. of Weymouth landing. This town is noted for its manufac- tures of boots, shoes, and tacks. The total value of its manufactures, in one year, was i«{!8l7,294, of which the amount of !«;82,()()0 was for tacks, and $746,794 lor boots and shocf::. There were 847 males and 470 fe- males employed in the manufacture of the latter. Population, 1837, 3,0.57. This town was incorporated in 1712. Its Indian name was Mati- amooskeagin. Acoakset Rivt-r, Rises on the border of the town of Fall River, and meets an arm of Buzzard's bay, at Westport, 12 miles S. W. ol New Bedford, Mass. Acton, Me. An interior town, in the county of York, recently taken from Shap- leigh. It lies near the headwaters of Salmon river, by which it is di- vided, on the W., from New-Hamp- shire. It is 107 miles S. W. from Augusta, and 15 W. from Alfred. Population, 1837, 1409. Actoii, Vt. Windham co. This town was first settled in 1781, and in 1782 it was incorporated. It has some fine brooks, but no important mill streams. It lies about 15 miles N. of Newfane, and about 90 S. of Montpelier. Population 1830, 176. Acton, Mass. Middlesex co. This is a pleas- ant farming town of good soil. The Assabet river passes through it. It is 5 miles N. W. by TV. of Concord, and 21 N. W. of Boston. Incorpo- rated 1735. Population 1837, 1071. Acwoi-th, N. H. Sullivan co. This town is chiefiy agricultural in its pursuits. The soil is generally gooil. Cold river, which rises from Cold pond in this town, atlbrds some good mill seats. This town was formerly noted for the culture of Hax, which was man- ufactured by some of the inhabitants into the finest linen, equal to any imported from Ireland. The town was settled in 1768, and incorporat- i ed in 1771. Population 1830, 1401. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. It lies 13 miles S. of Newport, and 44 VV. of Concord. Adams, Mass. Berkshire co. This is a flourish- ing agricultural and manufacturing township, comprising two village^, north and south, who>e trade goes to New York. It is 40 miles E. of Troy, N. Y., 120 W. N. W. of Bos- ton, 29 N. of Lenox, and 7 miles S. E. of WillianistowJi college. The Hoosack river passes through this town, and affords a great wa!er power. There are in this town 19 cotton mills, 4 satinet factories, and 2 calico printing establishments. There are also in this town large machine shops, 4 taneries, 3 air and cupola furnaces, and manufactories of shovels, spades, hoes, forks, chairs and cabinet ware. The total value of the manufactures of this place in the year ending April 1, 1S37, amounted to !| 1, 045,417. Between the years 1743 and 1736, this town was the scene of much Indian warfare. Traces of old Fort Massachusetts are still found. Saddle M:ninfain, the summit of which is called Gray lock,the high- est of Massachusetts mountains, lies chiefly in this town, and, although it is 3,600 feet above the level of the sea, is of easy ascent. A view from Gray lock probably gives " an idea of vastness and even of im- jnensity" better than any other landscape in New England, Mt. Washington, in N. H. excepted. The natural bridge on Hudson's Brook, in this town, is a curiosity worthy the notice of travellers. The waters of this lirook have worn a fissure from 30 to GO feet deep and 30 rods in Ienn;th, (hiough a body of white marble, or limestone, and formed a bridge of that material, 50 t''et above the surface of the Abater. There is a cavern in this town, 30 feet long, 20 high, and 20 wide. Incorporated 177S. Population 1820 l.S3«~1830, 2,(i4S— rjl^4, 3,000-^- aud in 1837, 4,191 Addisou, Me. Washington co. This town was incoiporated in 1797. Population, 1S37, 901. It lies 14 miles W. by S. from Machias, and 135 E.by N. from Augusta. Addison lies be- tween Pleasant and Indian rivers, and near the south entrance into liispecky reach, ^^ddison Point, or Cape Split, jutting out into the sea, off whicii are several small islands, is the piincipal harbor and place of trade. Adtlisoii CoKiity, Vt., Middlehury is the chief town. This county is bounded on the N. by Chittenden county; E. by W ash- ington and Orange counties, and a part of Windsor county; S. by Rutland county, and W. by Lake Champlain. It was incorporated in 1787, and contains about 7()0 square miles. Large quantities of white and beautifully variegated marble, which receives a fine polish, is found in this county, and large quantities of it are quarried and transported to various markets. — This county is a(hniiably well wat- ered by Otter Creek, which rise? near its southern boundary, and ex- tends nearly through its centre: — by IMad and White rivers ; and by Lake Champlain, which affords it many navigable privileges. The soil is good, particuhuly in those towns helow the m-ountains, and bordering the lake and livers. This county contains 22 towns. Popu- lation, 1820, 20,4(59—1830, 24,940. Inhabitants to a square mile, 35. Addisou, Vt, Addison co. Tliis is supposed to be the first place settled by the whites, in this state, west of the mountain^'. The town is pleasantly located on the east side of lake Champlain, and nearly opposite to Crov.n Point, in the state of New- Vork. At this place the lake is about 3 nules broad. The French, NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. it is saiJ, commenced a settlement here in 1731 ; the same year that they erected a fort at Crown Point. The Englisli came lierc about 1770. Otter Creek passes into the town, but aflbrds no important mill sites. The surl'ace of the town is low and level. Mill and Pike rivers, are small streams, which fall into the lake opposite to Crown Point. This town lies about 12 miles W. N. W. from ]\Iiddlebury, and 40 W. S. W. from Montpelier. Population 1830, 1,306. Againcnticiis Mountain, So called, beino; three elevations of land in York, Me., about 4 mile-: from the sea, and a noted land mark for those on the coast to the north- ward and eastward of Portsmovith harbor. The highest summit is 673 feet above the ocean. It is said that Saint At^piuquid died on this mountain, in 1682, and that his funeral was celebrated by the In- dians, by the sacrifice of 6711 wild animals. Aga'^vani, Mass. The Indian name of a river in Wareham, and of a part of Westfield river; and the name of a village on Westfield river, 2 miles S. W. from Spiinglield. Albany, Me, Oxford CO. This town was incor- porated in 1803. It lies about 17 miles W. by N. fiom Paris, and 58 W. froni Atigusla. It is the source of Crooked river, which empties in- to Sobago Lake. Population, 1837, 598. Albany, N. H., Strafford cc, lies 60 miles N. by F. from Concord, and 67 N. N. W. from Dover. The principal river in Albany, is Swift river, which p;i.sses from W. to E. into the Saco, at Conway. There are several Muall streams in different parts of the town, furnishing convenient mill privileges. Tliese streams were once the residence of num- bers of the beaver, otter, &c. — There are several lofty hills and mountains in this town, the highest of which is called Chocorua, and is visible from a gieat extent of coun- try. It received its name from Chocorua, an Indian, who was kil- led on the summit by a party of hunters in time of peace, before the settlement of the place. The predominant rock of these hills is granite — a soft, decomposing varie- ty, in which the crystals and grains of feldspar are very large. The soil is fertile, being a sandy loam, mix- ed occasionally with coarse gravel. There are some fertile intervale lands on the borders of Swift river. This town has been considerably retarded by a peculiar disease which afllicts neat cattle. Young cattle cannot be reared, nor can cows or oxen be kept here for a series of years, without being attacked by a singular and fatal distemper. It coijimences with a loss of appetite — the animals refuse hay, grain and salt — become emaciated ; an obstin- ate costiveness attends, but the ab- domen becomes smaller than in health, and is diminished to one third its orit;inal Inilk. After these symp- toms have continued for an indefi- nite period, a brisk scouring comes on, and the animals fall away and die. Though superstition may have found a reason in the dying curse of the murdered Chocorua, philoso- phy has not yet ascertained a satis- factory cause for the disease. It is probably owing to the properties contained in the waters. This town was granted Nov. 6, 1766, to Clem- ent March, Joseph Senter and oth- ers, and until the 2d July, 1833, it bore the name of Burton. Popula- tion in 1830, 325. Albany, Vt. Orleans co. This town was grant- ed in the year 1781, by the name of Luttcrlcli ; in 1815 it was chang- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ed toils present name. It is water- ed by a number of ponds, and by Black river and its branches. Al- bany lies .31 miles N. from Mont- pelier, and 9 S. of Irasburgh. Pop- ulation, 1830, 6S3. Albion, Me. Kennebec co. This fine farming town lies on the stage road from Augusta to Bangor; 24 miles N. E. from the former, and 44 S. W. from the latter. Population, 1S37, 1609. This town produced 10,728 bushels of wheat, in 1837. Albwrgli, Vt. Grand Isle co. Settlements com- menced here by emigrants from Canada, in 17S2. This town lies at tlie N. W. corner of the state and of New England ; 10 miles N. from North Hero, and 79 miles N. W. from Montpelier. It is bounded by the waters of Lake Clianiplain, ex- cept on the north, where it meets the Canada line, in north latitude 45°. The soil is good and finely timbered. It has a mineral spring, of some repute in scrofulous cases. Population, 1839, 1,239. Alexander, Me. Washington co. About 25 miles N. by W. from Machias, and S. of Baileyville, and Baring, w"hich bor- der on the river St. Croix. In this town are some ponds, which, with the large pond in Baring and Alex- ander, produce a large stream which empties into Cobscook bay. Popu- lation, 1837, 457. Alexander's Iialie. This beautiful sheet of water, of about a mile in length and half a mile in breadth, lies in the town of Killingly, Ct., and was formerly known to the Indians by the name of .Mnshapaug. Its present name is derived from Nell Alexander, a man who settled at Killinglj- in 1720, and became proprietor of a large portion of the town. As this person gained his wealth in a man- ner which illustrates the antiquity of the propensity of the inhabitants of this state to the once honored, yet now despised employment of peddling, we will give the reader a short notice of his history. He came from Scotland, with a great number of other emiarants, in a ship which was to land them at Boston. Just before leaving the ship he discovered a gold ring up- on deck, for which he could find no owner. Thus fortunately provided, after his arrival he pawned the gold ring for small articles of trade, which he peddled in Boston and Roxbury. He was very prosper- ous, and finally became able to re- deem the author of his success, and pursue his business without embar- rassment. After a few years of constant activity, he acquired suffi- cient property to purchase a planta- tion of 3,500 acres in Killingly. The gold ring was transmitted as a sort of talisman, to his only son JVell, who transferred it to his only son J\''cll ,• who is now living at an advanced age, and has already pla- ced it in the hands of his grandson JVell ; and so it will doubtless con- tinue from JVcll to A''eU, agreeably to the request of the first JVell, until the " last knell of the race is tolled!" A singular tradition has been handed down to us bj^ the abori- gines concerning the origin of this lake. In ancient times, when the red men of this quarter had long enjoy- ed prosperity, that is, when they had found plenty of game in the woods, and fish in the ponds and riv- ers, they at length fixed a time for a general powwow, a sort of festival for eating, drinking, smoking, sing- ing and dancing. The spot chosen for tliis purpose was a sandy hill, or mountain, covered with tall pines, occupying the situation where the lake now lies. The powwow lasted four days in succession, and was to NEW EiXGLAND GAZETTEER. continue longer had not the Great Spirit, enraged at the licentiousness which prevailed there, resolved to punish them. Accordingly, wliile the red people in immense numbers were capering about upon the sum- mit of the mountain, it suddenly " gave way" beneath them, and sunk to a great depth, when the water from below rushed up and covered them all except one good old squaw, who occupied one of the peaks, which now bears the name of Loon's Island. Mr. Barber in his admirable work entitled " Connecticut Historical Collections " from which this ac- count is taken, observes, " whether the tradition is entitled to credit or not, we will do it justice by alfirm- ing tliat in a clear day, when there is no wind and the surface of the lake is smooth, the huge trunks and leafless branches of gigantic pines may be occasionally seen in the deepest part of the water, some of them reaching almost to the surface, in such huge and fantastic forms as to cause the beholder to startle!" Alexandria, Xt H. Grafton co. A small part of New- found lake lies in this town. Al- exandria is 30 miles N. W. from Concord, and 40 S. £. from Haver- hill. Population, 1830, 1,083. In- corporated, 1782. On Fowler's and Smith's rivers and several other smaller streams are about 2000 acres of intervale land, which produce flax, potatoes and grass in abund- ance. Other parts of the town are favorable for wheat and maize. — This town was lirst settled by Jon- athan, John M. and William Cor- liss, in 1769. Alfred, 3Ic. One of the shire towns of York county. It lies 24 miles N. from York, 35 S. from Portland and 86 S. W. from Augusta. Incorpora- ted, 1808. Population, 1837, 1,360. This is a good farming town and is well watered by the higher sources of Mousuni river, which meets the sea at Kennebunk. In this town is a society of those neat and indus- trious horticulturists and artizans, denominated " Shakers." Alford, Mass. Berkshire co. On the line of the state of New York, and watered by branches of Green river. Some manufactories of leather and shoes. 125 miles W. from Boston, 14 S. by W. from Lenox, and 24 E. of Hud- son, N. Y. Population, 1837, 441. Incorporated, 1773. Allcnsto-vm, N. H. Merrimack co. On the Suncook river, 11 miles S. E. from Concord, and 3S W. fiom Portsmouth. The land generally is of an ordinary quality, though there are some line farms. The town is principally covered with a growth of oak and pine timber; and great quantities of lumber are annually taken down the liver. Allenstown is well wa- tered, though no large stream pass- es through it. Great Bear brook furnishes the principal mill seats. Catamount hill is the highest land in town. At the E. end of this hill is a ])rccipice of 70 feet nearly per- pendicular, at the foot of which is a cavern of some extent, inclining up- wards. The first settlers were Rob't Buntin and others. In 1748, while at work on the western bank of the Merrimack river, opposite the mouth of the Suncook, in comi)any with James Carr, Mr. Buntin and his son, ten years of age, were surprised by a party of Indians. Cair attempted to escape, and was shot down. Bun- tin and his son, making no resist- ance, were not harmed ; but taken through the wilderness to Canada, and sold to a French ti'ader at Mont- real ; with whom they remained abotit eleven months, escaped, and fortunately reached home in safety. Andrew, the son, continued on hi.s father's farm until the commence- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ment of the revolution, when, en- tering the service of his country, he died in her defence at White Plains, Oct. 28, 177(). Incorporated July 2, 1831. Population, 1S30, 421. Aliia, Me. This town is situated in the coun- ty of Lincoln, 10 miles N. from Wiscasset, 51 N. E. from Portland, and 20 S. S. E. fioni Ausiusta. In- corporated 1794. Population, 1837, 1,138. This is a pleasant town and well watered by Sheepscot river. Alstead, ]V. H., Cheshire co., is 12 miles S. E. from Charlestown,14 N.from Keene and 50 W. by S. from Concord. This town is well watered by small streams. Cold river passes through the N. W. part; and some of the branches of Ashuelot river have their sources in this town. Tliere are a number of ponds, the princi- pal of which is Warren's pond ; — length, 230 rods, breadth, 150. Perch and pickerel are here caught in great abundance. The soil is strong and productive, and the farms generally well cultivated. Manu- factures flourish in this town, and great attention is paid to ei« Breton, in honor of the captors of Cape Breton in 174-5; in which expedition several of the grantees were engaged. It retained this name until June 2-5, 1779, when it was incorporated by its present name. The first inhabitant of Ando- ver was Joseph J'ellows, wlio mov- ed into the place in 17()1 : he died March 14, ISll, aged 84. Among the deceased citizens who arc re- membered with respect by the in- habitants, we may mention Dr. Silas Barnard, the first physician in town, a native of Bolton, Mass., who died June 25, 1795 : Dr. Jacob B. Aloore, a native of Georgetown, Me., born Sept., 5, 1772; settled in Andover in 1796; died Jan. 10, 1S18. He possessed respectable poetical tal- ents; was a writer on political sub- jects in the public papers, and was eminent in his profession. Jonathan Wcarc, Esq., a civil magistrate, highly respected for his integrity, died in 1816. Mr. Joseph Noyea was much honored for his charitable disposition. In 1782 a congrega- tional church was formed and the Rev. Jossiah ]5abcock, of Milton, Mass., was ordained. Andover, though rough, is well adapted for grazing. It feeds about 4,000 sheep. Andover, Vt. Windsor co. Emigrants from En- field, Ct., first made a permanent settlement in this town, in 1776. It v.-as organized, as a town, in 1781. It is a mountainous township. Mark- hum and Terrible mountains lie in the western part. The land is une- ven, the .soil is hard, and the town possesses but few water privileges. Population, 1S30, 975. It lies 20 miles S. W. from Windsor , 37 N. E. fiom Bennington, and 68 S. from Montpelier. The number of sheep in this town is about 4,500. Andover, Mass. Essex CO. This town lies on the south side of the Merrimack river, and is well watered by the Shaw- sheen river; and by Great Pond and Ilaggett's Pond, covering an area of 721 acres. It is 20 miles N. by. W. of Boston, 15 N. N. W. of Salem, 10 E. of Lowell, and 43 S. S. E. of Concord, N. H. This town was first settled in 1643. In- corporated, 1646. Population, 1837, 4,878. This town has a valuable water power, which is used for manufacturing purposes to a great extent. The value of its manufac- tures, for the vcar ending April 1, 1837, amounted to .$624,450. They consisted of woollen goods, boots, shoes, leather, flax, soapstonc, ma- chinery, tin and cabinet wares, NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. chairs and hats. This is a very beautiful town of fine soil and un- der excellent cultivation. It is on high ground and commands a vari- ety of beautiful landscape. The access to Andover from 13o3ton by the railroad, is easy and very pleas- ant. This town has long been cel- ebrated for its literary and theologi- cal institutions. There is no place in New England better situated for seminaries of learning. See Register. Androscoggin River, Or Jlmeriscoggin. Its most north- erly branch is the Margallaway river which receives the waters of Dead and Diamond rivers, and unites with those flowing from Umbagog lake, about a mile distant from its outlet. From this junction, the confluent stream pursues a souther- ly course till it approaches near the White Mountains, where it receives several considerable tributaries, and passes into Maine, N. of Mount Mo- riah. It there bends to the E. and S. E. ; in which course, through a fertile country, it passes near the sea-coast, and turning N. runs over the falls at Brunswick, not far from Bowdoin College, into Merry- meeting bay, forming a junction with the Kennebec, 20 miles from the sea. Ann, Cai>c, Mass. See Gloucester, Mass. Anson, Me. Somerset co. Anson lies about 10 miles N. E. from Noriidgewock, 112 W. from Portland, and 40 N. E. from Augusta. Incorporated, 1798. Population, 1837, 1,894. It lies at the junction of Seven Mile Brook with the Kennebec, on the western side of that river. Here are fine farms and good husband- men. In 1837, 12,713 bushels of wheat was raised. Antrim, N. II. Hillsborough co. It is 20 miles N. W. from Amherst, 30 S. W. from Concord, and 67 from Boston. The E. part of Antrim lies on Con- toocook river ; and though some- what hilly, is a tract of productive land, a considerable proportion of which is arable. On the river there are valuable tracts of allu- vial land. The North Branch river, so called, a small stream originat- ing from several ponds in Stoddard, furnishes several valuable mill seats and in some parts of its course, it is bordered by tracts of intervale. The W. part of the town is moun- tainous, but suitable for grass, and affords an extensive range of good pasturage. There are six natural ponds well stored with perch and pike. A curiosity has been dis- covered in the middle branch of Contoocook river, a rock, about 10 feet long and 8 feet wide, covered with a shallow coat of moss, affbrd- ing sustenance to 21 different kinds of plants and shrubs, three of which pi-oduce edible fruit. Antrim was incorporated March 22, 1777. The first settlement was made by Dea. James Aiken about the year 1768. Dea. Aiken was a native of Lon- donderry, where he was born in 1731. He died July 27, 1817. He was a professor of the christian re- ligion more than 60 years, and adorned it by a serious and exem- plary life. Population, 1830, 1,309. Antrim has about 4,400 sheep. Appleton, Me. Waldo CO. This town lies 20 miles S. W. from Belfast, 84 N. W. from Portland, and 35 E. by S. from Augusta. Incorporated, 1829. — Population, 1837, 839. It is situa- ted between the head waters of the Muscongus and St. George's rivers. Considerable wheat is grown here. Argyle, Me. Penobscot co. This is a new town, but fertile, and flourishing in its agricultural pursuits. It pro- NEW ENCLAND GAZETTEER. duces the best of wheat. It lies 89 miles N. E. from Au£!;usta. — Population, 1S30, 32a ; in 1837, 001. iVrlingtoii, Vt. Bennington co. This town was first settled in 1T63. The time of its or£;anization is not known, as one Bisco, a tory, the town clerk in 1777, destroyed the records. It is finely watered by Green liver, Mill and Warm brooks, and Roaring branch which fall into the Batten- kill, at the north part of the town. These streams affoid excellent mill sites, and on their banks are large bodies of superior meadow land. West and Red mountains extend through the west part of the town and supply a great variety of good timber. Excellent marble is found here ; — considerable quantities of which are wrought and transported. Here is a medicinal spring, and a cavern of large dimensions. The spring is not of much notfe, but the cavern is a great curiosity. This is a flourishing town in both its ag- ricultural and manufacturing pur- suits. The number of sheep in this town in 1836, was 10,077. It lies 15 miles N. from Bennington, 106 S. W. from Montpclier, and 40 N. E. from Troy, N. Y. Popula- tion, 1830, 1,207". Aroostook: River. This river rises in the interior part of Penobscot county. Me., and after traversing more than 100 miles, and receiving many and powerful tributaries in that state, it falls into the river St. Johns in New Bruns- wick. The lands on this river and its branches arc very fertile, and are said to be equal to the celebrated Genesee lands for the culture of wheat. Ascutiiey Mouiiialu, Vt. This mountain is situated in the towns of Windsor ?nd Weathers- field. It is 3,116 feet above the Connecticut river, at Windsor; and 3,320 feet above the level of the sea. It consists of graniie and is nearly destitute of vegetable cov- ering. From Windsoi', to the base, is 4 miles. Its ascent is generally steep, but travellers who delight to view rich and variegated scene- ry, will be amply revvaided for the toil of a pilgrimage to its summit. Ashbui'iiliam, Mass. V»'orcester co. This township was granted to Thomas Tileston and others of Dorchester, for services in an expedition against Canada, in the year 16.00. For many years it was called " Dorchester Canada." It was incoi-porated as a town in 1765. Ashburnham lies on the height of land between the Con- necticut and Ivlerrimack rivers. It is watered by large ponds which furnish good mill seats. Its manu- factures consist of cotton goods, boots, shoes, leather, chairs, cabin- et ware, fur and palm-leaf hats ; the annual value of which is about .$100,000. This town is 30 miles N. froin Worcester, 50 N. W. from Boston, and 35 Vv". from Lowell. Population, 1837, 1,758. AsUTiy, Mass. This is a pleasant town, in the county of Middlesex, on the line of N. H. It is 25 miles N. W. from Concord, 42 W. N. W. from Boston and 8 S. E. from New Ipswich, N. H. Population, 1S37, 1,201. It has some manufactures of palm-leaf hats boots, shoes, chairs, wooden ware, and curled hair. Asliiicld, Mass. Franklin CO. This tov>'n was first settled in 1754, and, until its incor- poration, in 1764, it was called Huntstown. Population, 1837, — 1 ,656. This town is on elevated land between Dcertield and Westfield rivers, to each of which it sends a small tributary. It has small man- ufactures of leather, scythe snaiths, spirits and essences, and about NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. 8000 sheep. It is 105 miles W. from Boston, 12 S. W. t'lom Gicenliekl, and 15 N. W. from Noithampton. Aslifoid, Ct. Windham co. This town was first settled in 1710. Incorporated, 1714. It is watered by .several small streams which afford a water power for one cotton and three woollen factories. The surface of the town is rough and stony, but excellent for grazing. The num- ber of sheep in this town is about 5,000. It lies 31 miles E. from Hartford, and 14 N. W. from Bi-ook- lyn. Population, 1S30, 2,660. The following is said to have occuried in this town, and is told to illustrate the manners and customs of ancient times. " A concourse of people were assembled on the hill in front of the meeting house, to witness the punishment of a man who had been convicted of neglecting to go to meeting on the Sabbath for a pe- riod of three months. According to the existing law for such delin- quency, the culprit was to be pub- licly whipped at the post. Just as the whip was about to be applied, a stranger on horseback appeared, rode up to the crowd of spectators, and enquired for what purpose they were assembled. Being informed of the state of the case, the strange gentleman rose upright in his stir- rups, and with emphasis addressed the astonished multitude as follows : ' You men of Ashford, serve God as if the D...1 was in you ! Do you think you can whip the grace of God into men .' Christ will have none but volunteers.' The people stared, while the speaker, probably not caring to be arraigned for con- tempt of court, put spurs to his horse, and was soon out of sight; nor was he evermore seen or beard of by the good people of Ashford." Col. Thomas KnowHon was a na- tive of this town. He was at the battle of Bunker Hill, and fell at Ha?rlem Heights, in 1776. AVash- ington termed him, in a general or- der after his death, "the gallant and brave Col. Knowlton, who would have been an honor to any coun- try-" Asliuelot River, ST. H., Or Ashwillet, a river in Chesh- ire county, which has its source in a pond in Washington. It runs in a southerly course through Marlow and Gilsum, to Keene, where it re- ceives a considerable branch issu- ing from ponds in Stoddard. From Keene it proceeds to Swanzey, where it receives another consider- able branch which originates in Jaf- frey and Fitzwilliam. It pursues its course southerly and westerly through Winchester into Hinsdale, where, at the distance of al)out 3 miles from the S. line of the state, it empties into the Connecticut. Assa1)et River, Blass. This river rises in the neighbor- hood of Westboiough ; — it passes through Marlborough, Northbo- rough and Slow, and joins Sudbury river at Concord. Alliens, Me. Somerset co. This town was incorporated in 1S03. Population, 1837, 1,424. It is about 18 miles N. N. E. from Norridgewock, 11-1 N. N. E. from Poitland and 45 N. from Augusta. It is watered by a tributary of Kennebec river. Alliens Vt. Windham co. This town lies 14 miles N. from Newfane, 98 S. from Montpelier, 10 W. from Bellows' Falls, and about 40 N. E. from Ben- nington. Population, 1830, 415. This town was lirst settled in 17S0, by people from Rindge, N. H., and Winchendon, Mass. They encoun- tered great hardships. " The snow was four feet deep when they came into town, and they had to beat their own path for 8 miles through the woods. A small yoke of oxen NEW ENGLANI> GAZETTEER. were the only domestic animals that they took with them." Tliis is a good township of land, particu- larly tor grazing. It has 2000 sheep. Here are productive orchards, pine tiinher, and a small mill stream. AtUol, Mass. Worcester co. The Indian name of this town was Paquoii^. This pleasant place lies 60 miles W. N. W. from Boston, 28 N. W. from Worcester, and about 24 W. troni Fitchburg. IMiller's river is a line stream, and afi'ords Athol a great water power. The manufactures of -Athol consist of cotton goods, boots, shoes, leather, paper, iron castings, scythes, ploughs, cabinet ware, machinery, straw bonnets, palm leaf hats,shoe pegs, harnesses, shoe and hat boxes, pails, sashes, doors and blinds; — annual amount about $175,000. Incorporated, 17(j2. Population, 1S37, 1,603. Atkinson, Me. Piscataquis co. This township was incorporated in 1819. It lies about 35 miles N. N. W. from Ban- gor, 132 N. E. from Portland, and 79 N. E. from Augusta. Popula- tion, 1837, 557. It is bounded on the N. by Piscataquis river. This town has a ffood soil. Wheat crop, 1837, 5,168''bushcls. Atkinson, K'. H. Rockingham co. It is situated 30 miles S. W. from Portsmouth, and 32 S. fl. from Concord. The surface of Atkinson is uneven ; the soil of a superior quality, and well cultivated. The cultivation of the apple has received much attention here, and the finest fruit is pro- duced. Incorporated Sept. 3, 17()7j by its present name, in honor of Theodore Atkinson. Several of the first settlers lived to a great age. The Rev. Stephen Peahody was the first settled minister in Atkinson. He was a native of Andover, Mass. He took an active part in the revo- lution, and served as chaplain in the regiment under Col. Poor, sta- tioned at Winter-Hill. The acade- my in this town is one of the oldest and most respectable institutions in the .'tate ; it was incorporated Feb. 17, 1791. " In a large meadow in this town, there is an island, con- taining 7 or 8 acres, which was for- merly loaded with valuable pine ti?nber and other forest wood. When the meadow is overflowed, by means of an artificial dam, this island rises in the same degree as the water rises, which is sometimes six feet. Near the middle of this island, is a small pond, which has been gradu- ally lessening ever since it was first known, and is now almost covered with verdure. In the-water of this pond, there have been fish in plen- ty; which, when the meadow hath been flowed, have appeared there, and when the water hath been drawn oflT, have been left on the meadow ; at which time the island settles to its usual place." Popu- lation, 1830, 555. Attlcljoroiigli, Mass. This town lies at the N. W. cor- ner of the county of Bristol ; 12 miles N. from Piovidence, R. I., 8 N. W. from Taunton, and 28 S. from Boston. A branch of the Pawtucket rises here, and several other rivers pass through the town. It possesses a fine water power. It was first settled, 1644, and incorpo- rated in 1604. Population, 1837, 2,396. The value of the manufac- tures at this place, for the year ending April 1, 1S37, amounted to about' $500,000. That of cotton goods alone to $229,571. The oth- er manufactures consisted of boots, shoes, leather, metal bullous, combs jeweli-y, clocks, planing machines, carpenter's tools, straw bonnets, chairs and cabinet ware. This town suffered much during the reign of the celebrated Indian King Philip. In 1675, Attleborough was ?l fron- tier settlement. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Anlittm, Mass. Worcester co. Until 1837, this town had been called Ward, in hon- or of General Ward, of the revolu- tionary army. It was incorporated in 1778. Population, 1837, 1,183. Auburn is a pleasant agricultural town. French livcr passes through it. It lies 5 miles S. by W. from Worcester, and 45 W. S. W. from Boston. AugTista, Me. This delightful town, the Capi- tal of the state, and chief town of the county of Kennebec, is in N. Lat. 44° 18' 43" and W. Lon. 69° 50'. It lies 146 miles N. E. from Concord, N. H.; 182 E. N.E. from Montpclier, Vt. ; 163 N. N.E. from Boston, Mass. ; 203 N. N. E. from Providence, R. I. ; 260 N. E. from Hartford, Ct. ; and 595 miles N. E. from Washington. Augusta is situated at the head of sloop naviga- tion on Kennebec river, 43 miles ti-om the sea. The town lies on both sides of the Kennebec, and contains an area of 8 by 6 miles. It was first settled in 1771, and in- corporated in 17S7. In 1838 it con- tained 6,300 inhabitants. Its In- dian nnmc was Ciishnoe. There was, in its early settlement, a fort, and four block houses built of tim- ber, to afford protection to the in- habitants from the Indians, who were then very troublesome. The fort was called Fort Western, and is still standing on the east bank of the river, and is now occupied as a dwelling house. This is already a very ilourishing town, not only in its agricultural pursuits, but in its commerce and manufactures. The tonnage of the place is about 3000 tons. Its exports are lumber of all kinds, oats, peas, beans, hay, pota- toes, wool, cider, apples, Slc. — When the extent and resources of the noble Kennebec and its tributa- ries, above tide water, are consid- ered, some idea may be formed of the vast quantity of lumber that must pass this place on its passage to market. The Kennebec bridge, uniting the east and west parts of the town is a fine structure. It was built in 1799; is 520 feet in length, and cost $28,000. The town rises by an easy ascent on both sides of the river to a level surface ; it is well laid out, neatly built, and contains many handsome dwelling houses. Many of the streets are decorated by trees, planted on each side ; — a striking evidence of the good taste of the inhabitants. The State House is a spacious and elegant structure, located upon a beautiiul eminence about half a mile from the village, on the road towards Hallowell, and commands an extensive and very delightful prospect. It is built of hammered granite, or rather gneiss of a white color, and very much resembles marble, at a distance. The materi- al of which it was built, was quar- ried fiom the spot on which it stands. It has a spacious hall for the Rep- resentatives ; two of convenient size for the Senate and the Executive Departments, and rooms for all the offices immediately connected with the Government. In front is an ex- tensive common, adorned with trees tastefully arranged, which, when grown into shades, will afford a de- lightful promenade. The United States' Arsenal buildings are situated upon the east bank of the river, in view of the vil- lage, and are chiefly constructed of stone, and present a very fine ap- pearance. The Government has expended large sums of money in their construction, and it is expect- ed that soon the Government will make it an Arsenal of Construc- tion. There are at present about 2000 stand of arms deposited here, besides cannon and other munitions of war. The Post is commanded by a captain of the Ordnance Depart- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ment, aided by a Lieut, of the same corps. The State Insane Hospital. This .splendid j^ranite edilice, an honor to the state and to huiiianity, occu- pies a phit of elevated ground, of seventy acres, on the east side of Uie river. Its situation is unrival- ed for the beaufy of its scenery. This buiUiins; was commenced in 1836, and wiil pi-obahly be complet- ed and prepared to receive patients, in 1S39. It will cost the state, and some benot'icent individuals, who have maors. The bays and harbors in New England are generally mentioned under the places pertaining to them. Bear Camp River, N. H., Is formed of several branches ris- ing on the south side of Sandwich and Albany mountains. The two principal branches unite in Os^ipee, and fall into Ossipee lake on its western border. Bear River, Me., Rises in the highlands, near Um- bagog lake, passes Newry, and empties into the Androscoggin, op- posite to Bethel. Becket, Mass., An elevated farming township on the Green mountain range, in Berkshire county. Westfield, Farm- ington and Housatonick rivers re- ceive the waters of several ponds in this town. It has some small man- ufactures, and about 7,000 sheep. The town was incoi-porated in 1765, and lies 110 miles W. from Boston, 15 E. S. E. from Lenox, and 23 W. from Northampton. Population, 1837, 957. Beddingtou, Me. Washington co. There are sev- eral ponds in this town, which are among the head waters of Pleasant and Narraguagus rivers. Incorpo- rated, 1833. Population, 1837, 169. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER, It lies 35 miles N. W. from Machi- as, and about 40 E. from Bangor. Bedford, N. H. This is a pleasant town in Hills- borough county. It is 8 miles N. E. from Amherst, 20 S. by E. from Concord. Merrimack and Piscata- quoag are the only rivers in tlii-s town. The latter passes through its N. E. corner, where there is the pleasant and tlourishing village of Piscataquoag. This town has con- siderable very productive intervale land. It has been noted for the cultivation of hops and for its line domestic manufactures. On the W. line of Bedford, arc a remarkable gulf and precipice, which are oli- jects of curiosity. A considerable brook passes over the precipice, and falls about 200 feet within the dis- tance of 100 yards. Here are found several excavations in solid stone, which are sufficiently large to con- fain many persons. In mineralogy, this town atlbrds a great variety of .specimens. Iron ore is found in different places, and in several vari- eties. Sulphuretof iron, imbedded in common granite, and red oxide of iron, combined with alumine, arc common. Bhick lead, pyritous cop- per, schorl, hornblende, epidote, talc, mica, black, yellow and green gneiss, crystallized quartz, &c. are found here. The first child born in town was Silas Barron, son of Capt. Moses Barron, in 1741. The town was incorporated. May 19, 17-50. Bedford was the residence of many Indians in former times. Near Goffe's (alls is a spot of ground, about ton rods long and four wide, which is supposed to have been an Indian burial place. Population, 1S.30, 1,.554. Bedford, Mass. This is a pleasant town in Middle- sex county, and the source of Shaw- sheen river. This town was for- merly parts of Concord and Billeri- ca, and was incorporated in 1729. Population, 1837, 85S. It lies 15 miles N. W. from Boston, and 5N. E. from Concord. Bedlbrd is bound- ed N. by Concord river. It has some manufactures ; principally of boots and shoes. Belc]iertoi\-u, Mass., A beautiful town in Hampshire county, originally called "Cold Spring," 75 miles W. from Boston, 11 E. from Northampton, and 27 E. from Pittsfield. Population, 1837, 2,5^8. First settled, 1732. Incor- porated, 1761. The soil of the town is of an excellent quality, and well improved. Large quantities of wool is grown in this town. It is separated from Ware by Swift river, on the N. The principal manufacture is that of pleasure wagons, of which about fiOO are an- nually made. Mr. A. Shumway, of this place, has driven the stage be- tween Belcherlown and Northamp- ton 25 successive years. In that period he made 15,000 trips, travel- led 218,400 miles, and carried at least 124,000 passengers; yet, al- though his hours of travelling were early in the morning and late in the evening, he never broke a limb, overturned his coach, or met with any serious accident whatever, dur- ing his whole career. Belfast, Me., Is the chief town of Waldo coun- ty, and a port of entry, and is beau- tifully .situated on Belfast bay, on the W. side of Penobscot river. It lies 40 miles E. from Augusta, 30 S. from Bangor, 30 N. from Thoin- aston, and, across Belfast bay, 12 W. from Castine. The town was in- corporated in 1773, but not perma- nently settled until about the year nyS. There is con'iderable good land in Belfast. In 1837 it pro- duced 3,492 bushels of as good wheat as ever grew on the prairies of the " boundless West." The Paa-jaggassawakeag river passes near the centre of the town, and NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. adds much to the appearance of tlie place. The harbor is verj' good — it is guarded by Long and Sears' islands, and has anchorage for a great number of vessels of the larg- est class. The proximity of Bel- fast to the sea, its site in relation to Penobscot river, and its excellent harbor, which w^as never known to have been obstructed by ice, but twice, (1780 — 1815,) gives it pe- culiar advantages for foreign com- merce, the coasting trade, and the fisheries. Considerable ship build- ing is carried on at this place. The tonnage of the district of Belfast in 1837, was 29,.342 tons. The principal exports are lumber and tlsh. Pop- ulation, 1810,1,2.39; 1820, 2,026; 1830, 3,077, and in 1837, about 4,000. Belfast, although irregular- ly built, is a pleasant town, and is an important winter mart of the trade of Penobscot river. Belgrade, Me. Kennebec co. In this town are parts of three large and beautiful ponds or lakes, well stored with fish. They are connected with each oth- er, and find an outlet at V.'aterville. The scenery on the borders of these •waters is truly delightful. It pro- duced in 1837, 6,340 bushels of wheat. Belgrade was incorporated in 1796. Population, 1837, 1,4S3. It lies 10 miles N. E. from Augus- ta, and 69 N. by E. from Fori land. The village at Belgrade .Mills, f, miles from the centre of the town, ?.nd 16 miles from Augusta, is a very flourishing place. Bellamy BaiiU, K. II. A river, one branch of which is- sues from Chesley's pond, in Bar- rington, and the other from low and marshy lands in the vicinity ; these unite in Madbury, and after mean- dering through the town, the wa- ters fall into the Piscataqua, on the W. side of Dover Neck, where the stream is called Back river. Belliiigliaiu, Mass. Norfolk CO. The soil of this town is light and sandy, and not very good for agricultural purposes. It is finely watered by Charles river, and lias a good hydraulic power. Its manufactures, consisting of cot- ton and woollen goods, straw bon- nets, boots and shoes, amounted, in one year, to $127,837. It lies 18 miles S. W. fioin Dedham, 17 N. by W. from Providence, R. I., and 28 S. W. from Boston. Population, 1837, 1,159. Incorporated, 1719. Iron ore is found here. Bellows' Falls. See Walpole, jX. H. Belmont, Me. This town is well watered by the Paasaggassawakcag, which rises there in a pond of that name, and empties at 13e!fast, about 6 miles N. It lies 34 miles E. by N. from Au- gusta. In 1837, Belmont produced 3,435 bushels of wheat, and consid- erable wool. Waldo county. Eelvitlere, Vt. Lamoille co. A mountainous township on the west side of the Green Mountains, 32 miles N. E. from Burlington, 32 N. from Mont- pelier, 27 E. by S. from St. Albans, and watered by branches of La- moille river. Incorporated, 1791. Population, 1830, 185. Eemiisigtoii Comity, Vt. Bevningtun and Manchester are the chiaf towns. This is the oldest county in Vt., on the west side of the Green l\Iounlr.ins. It is bound- ed on the north by Rutland county, on the east by Windham county, on the south by Berkshire county, Mass., and on the west by the state of New York. It is 39 miles long and 20 wide. Area, 610 square miles. Population, in 1820, 16,125 ; 1830, 17,468. Inhabitants to square mile, 28. The low lands are excel- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. lent, and produce good crops, but the largest portion of the county is mountainous, and lit only for graz- ing. Many streams rise in the mountains and descend to the ocean, some by the Hudson and some by the Connecticut, affbrdinp; a great hydraulic power. Lead and iron ores of good quality are found in this county, and large quarries of beautiful white marble. The num- ber of sheep in this county in 1837 was 69,828. Beuningtoii, Vt. One of the chief towns of Ben- nington county. It lies 120 miles S. W. by S. from Montpelier, 2-3 S. from Manchester, and 20 east from Troy, N. Y. Population, 1830, 8,419. Present population, about 4,200. First settled, 17t>l. The town is situated high above the great riv- ers and the ocean, yet we find it of good alluvial soil, delightfully en- circled by ever-green mountains. It abounds in iron ore, manganese, ochre and marble. The streams are numerous and afford excellent mill sites. The products of the soil consist of all the varieties com- mon to New England. Great at- tention is paid to the rearing of fheep : about 7000 of those useful animals feed on the hills and valleys. There are in Bennington, 6 cotton and 3 woollen factories, a very ex- tensive iron foundry, 2 furnaces, a paper mill, flouring mills, Sic. The public schools justly sustain an ele- vated rank. Bennington is finely located for the muses. On the bor- der of this town, about 6 miles W. of the court house, the gallant Stark, with a small band of " (ireeu Mountain Bo\s,'' celebrated for their bravery, gained an important victory over the British, August Ifi, 1777. The fame of that battle is as imperishable as the mountains which overshadow the ground. Shame to the country : — there is not a stone to mark the spot ! 4 Beuson, Vt. Rutland co. This town, on Lake Champlain, was first settled in 1783. Population, 1830, 1,493. It lies 84 miles E. from Montpelier, 20 W. N. W. from Rutland, and opposite to Putnam, N. Y. The lake at this place is about a mile in width. The town has some streams affording mill sites, but none of great im- portance. The waters are generally brackish and unpleasant. A stream issues from a swamp in this town, and after running a short distance, passes through the base of a high hill, a distance of more than half a mile. Benson has good pine, ma- ple, walnut, oak and beech timber, and a bog of marl resembling ful- ler's earth. There are about 14,000 sheep in this town. Berkley, Mass. Bristol CO. Berkley lies .i7 miles S. from Boston, 18 E. from Provi- dence, and .5 S. from Taunton. Pop- ulation, in 1837, 878. Taken from Dighton in 1735, from which it is separatetl by Taunton river. Some coasting vessels belong to this place, and some ship building is carried on. Assonct village, on Taunton river, is the principal place of business. The soil is light and sandy. Berkshire County, Mass. Lenox is the chief town. This county was incorporated in 1770. Population, 1820, 35,(;6fi ; 1830,37- s-lo, and in 1837, 3f>,101 ; area, 860 square miles. Bounded N. by Ben- nington county, Vt., W. by Rensse- laer and Columbia counties, N. Y., S. bj' Litchfield county, Ct., and E. by Franklin, Hampshire and Hampden counties. This county is rough and hilly in many parts, but it affords considerable very fine land, and produces much wool, all sorts of grain, and exports great quantities of beef, pork, butter, Stc. The number of sheep in this coun- ty in 1837, was 136,962. Berkshire NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. is the most elevated county in tlie state. The Green and Tauohkannic Mountains cross it from N. to S.; the average height of which is about 1,200 feet above the level of the sea. The Housatonick and Hoo- sick are its chief rivers. The for- mer empties into Long Island Sound; the latter into the Hudson : 29 towns ; 45 inhabitants to a square mile. " This county possesses, in rich and inexhaustible abundance, three of the most important articles of the commerce of the world. Iron, Marble and Lhnc, and its wood and water power are fully sufficient to enable it to lit them for the pur- poses of life." The tonnage of this county to its maits of trade, princi- pally on the Hudson, amounted, in 1834, to no less than 34,07.5 tons. At the present time it probably ex- ceeds 40,000 tons. The enterprize of a railroad fiom Boston to Albany will soon be accomplished, and can- not fail of being exceedingly beneti- cial, not only to this county, but to the commonwealth at large. Berksliire, Vt. Franklin co. Elihu M. Royce, son of Stephen Royce, was the first child born in this town. That event occurred in 1793. On Missisque and Trout rivers, which watei' this town, is some fine intervale land. Pike river, from Canada, affords Berkshire a great water power. This town lies 50 miles N. W. from Montpelier, 22 N. E. by E. from St. Albans, and 31 N. E. by N. from Burlington. Population, 1830, 1,308. About 3,000 sheep. Berlin, BIc. Oxford CO. This town is bounded E. by Phillips, S. by Weld and AV. by Byron. It lies 100 miles N. from Portland, 45 N. W. from Au- gusta, and about 40 N. from Paris. Population, 1837, 470. Wheat crop, same year, 2,175 bushels. Berlin, N. II. Coos CO. This town, from 1771 to 1829, was called Maynesborough. The Androscoggin and Amonoo- suck rivers pass through it. It is about 20 miles E. from Lancaster, and 125 N. from Concord. Popu- lation, 1830, 73. Berlin, Vt. This is a pleasant town in Wash- ington county, watered by Onion and Dog rivers, Stevens' branch, and a number of ponds, furnishing good mill sites, and excellent fishing. The land is somewhat broken, but of strong soil and good for tillage. Considerable manufactures are pro- duced in this town, and about (j,000 sheep. There is a mineral spring here of little note. First settled in 1786. Population, 1830, 1,664.— Berlin is bounded N. by Montpe- lier and E. by Barre. Berlin, Mass. Worcester co. Taken from Bol- ton, in 1784. Population, 1837, 724. It lies 15 miles N. E. from Worcester, 31 W. by N. from Bos- ton, and 7 S. E. from Lancaster. A branch of the Assabet affords this town good water privileges. Large quantities of hops are pro- duced here ; some wool, and some baskets. Berlin, Ct. Haitford co. Taken from Far- mias;ton, in 1785. Population, 1830, 3,047. This town lies 11 miles S. fi-om Hartlbrd, and 23 N. from New Haven. The surface of Berlin is hilly, but productive of grass, grain and fruits. There are in the town about 2,000 sheep. The vil- lages of IVorthington and JVeiu Britain are very pleasant, and the manufactures of brass, tin and oth- er wares, there pursued, are very extensive and flourishing. The first manufacture of tin ware in this country was commenced at this place, in about the year 1770, by Edward .Patterson, a native of Ire- land. Mr. Patterson peddled his NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ware about the countrj-, on foot, in baskets; his successors in the man- ufacture did the same, until the uses and vahie of the article becoming- known, and the demand increasing, horses and wagons were cmploj'ed ; and thus this important manufac- ture of New England was trans- ported to all parts of the country. Beruardston, Mass. Franklin co. This is a township of superior land for agricultural purposes, considerably elevated, be- tween Fall and Connecticut rivers. It was formerly called Fall Town. There was a fort here in 1740, when this part of the county was peopled mostly by Indians. It was incorporated, by its present name, in 17(>4. It lies 96 miles W. by N. from Boston, and 7 N. from Green- field. Population, 1S37,S7S. Bald and West mountains afford delight- ful scenery : — the former is 630 feet above the waters of the Connecti- cut. Here are springs containing magnesia, sulphur and iron. Bcr- nardston produced, in one year, 18,000 bushels of corn and rye, and 5,000 barrels of cider. There are 3,022 sheep in this town, and some manufactures of shoes, leather,palm- leaf liats, and scythe snaiths, Ber^vicU, Me. York CO. This town lies on the E. side of Salmon river, about 14 miles S. S. W. from Alfred, 45 S. W. from Portland, and 98 S. W. from Augusta. Berwick has con- siderable trade in lumber. Incor- porated, 1713. Population, 1837, 1,799. Bethany, Ct. New Haven co. Taken from Woodbridge, in 1832. It lies 10 miles N. by W. from New Ha- ven. Some portions of this town is good land and well cultivated, but a large part of it is mountain- ous, and fit only for the growth of ■\vood. Beacon mountain, between Bethany and Naugatuck river, pre- sents .some wild and picturesque features. Bethel, Me. Oxfoi-d CO. Incorporated in 1796. Population, 1837, 1,864. Bethel lies iH miles N. W. from Paris, 61 N. W. from Portland, and 63 W. from Augusta. This town is bound- ed N. and W. by Androscoggin riv- er, and S. by Greenwood. This is a fine farming town, and produced 5,214 bushels of wheat in 1837. Bethel, Vt. Windsor CO. This town was first settled in 17S0, and was the first town chartered by the government of Vermont. It lies 31 miles S. by W. from Monlpelier, and 30 N. W. from Windsor. Population, 1830, 1,240. Bethel is watered by branches of White river, and pos- sesses good mill sites. Soap stone is found here in great quantities and of good quality : much of it is sawed and transported. Garnet in small, but perfect crystals, is also common. The surface of Bethel is broken and mountainous, but the soil is warm and good far grazing. It has about 8,000 sheep. Consid- erable business is done at both vil- lages. East and West ; the latter is the largest. Bethel, Ct. Fairfield co. This is a pleasant and flourishing village, in the town of Danbury, and about 3 miles N. W. from the centre of that town. There are about fifty dwelling hous- es in the village, and about thirty work shops or factories. The man- ufacture of hats and combs is the principal business of the place, and large quantities of both are annu- ally transported to Boston, New York and other places. Bethlehem, If. H., Grafton co., is bounded N. by Whiteficld and Dalton, E. by Car- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. roll and iingranted land, S. by Fran- conia and Lisbon, and N. W. by Littleton. It is watered by Great Amonoosuck river. The soil pro- duces good crops of grass and grain. There is plenty of pine timber and sugar maple. Iron ore, both of the mountain and bog kind, has been oc- casionally found. Two mineral springs have been discovered. — Bethlehem was settled in 1790. It was incorporated Dec. 27, 1799. Population, 1830, 665. Bethlehem, Ct. Litchfield co. This town is 38 miles W. S. W. from Hartford, 32 N. W. by W. from New Haven, and 8 S. from Litchfield. It was taken from Woodbury in 1787. It is hilly, with a gravelly loam, and fit for grazing and the growth of rye. It has 2,000 sheep. Popu- lation, 1830, 906. The town is wa- tered by Pomperaug river, a branch of the Housatonick. Beverly, Mass. Essex CO. This town lies N. of Salem, and is united to it by a bridge across the North river, built in 178S, 1,500 feet in length. The people of this town are noted for their en- terprise in commerce and the fish- eries. There are some merchant vessels belonging to this place, about 50 sail of fishermen, and 20 coasters. The annual value of the fislieries at Beverly is about ^I'OO,- 000. The manufactures, consisting of Brittania ware, tin and cabinet wares, chairs, hats, boots, hair, mus- tard and bricks, amounted in one year to about $120,000. The pros- perity of this town has not suffered by the growth of luxury or excess of trade; its fisheries and manufactur- ing concerns are steady and pro- gressive. First settled, 1626. In- corporated, 1688. Population, 1830, 4,079—1837, 4,609. Among many distinguished men who have lived and died at Beverly, was Captain Thomas Lothrop, who commanded the " Flower of Essex," a compa- ny of young men from this county, and who were, with their leader, almost wholly cut off by the In- dians, at Bloody Brook, in 1675. Biddeford, Me. York CO. On the S. side of Saco river, and connected with the town of Saco by a bridge. The town extends down the river to the sea, and includes a point of land called " Fletcher's Neck," off which are several small islands; on one of which, Wood Island, is a revolving light. This is a good township for agricultural pursuits, the coasting trade, ship building, and the fish- ery. It lies 38 miles N. E. from York, 15 S. W. from Portland, and 69 S. W. from Augusta. First permanently settled, 1630. Incor- porated, 1718. Population, 1837, 2,278. See Saco. Billerica, Mass. Middlesex co. This town is wa- tered by the Concord and Shaw- sheen rivers, and has a pleasant vil- lage, on high ground, near the cen- tre. Its soil is good and well im- proved. The Middlesex canal and the Boston and Lowell rail road pass iiuoiigh the easterly part of the town. First settled, 1653. Incor- porated, 1655. Population, 1837, 1 ,498. Here are some manufactures of woolen cloth, boots, leather, wooden ware, straw bonnets, shav- ing and splitting knives, bed bind- ing, soft soap, and spirits. Billerica lies 18 miles N. W. from Boston, 7 S. S. E. from Lowell, and 7 N. E. by N. from Concoi'd. Biugham, Me. Somerset co. On the eastern bank of Kennebec j-iver, opposite to Concord, 26 miles N. from Nor- ridgewock, 118 N. N. E. from Port- land, and 55 N. from Augusta. In- corporated, 1812. Population, 1837, 701. In 1837, 2,548 bushels of wheat was raised in this town. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Black Rivers. Black river, in Windsor county, Vt. is 35 miles in length. It rises in Plymouth, passes Ludlow, Cav- en(ffih and Weatherstield, and falls into the Connecticut at Springlield. This river passes through many nat- Tiral ponds, and aflbrds a great num- ber of mill scats. Black river, in Orleans county, Vt. is about 30 miles in length. It rises in some ponds in Craftsbury, and passing through Albany, Iras- burg, and Coventry, it falls into Memphremagog lake at Salem. Black river, in Somerset county, Me. is one of the head branches of the Walloostook. Blackstone River, Mass. The most inland branch of this river rises between Paxtonand Hol- den. It passes Worcester, and the ponds in Shrewsbury pay it the tri- bute of their waters. After pass- ing Auburn, Grafton, Millbury, Sutton, Northbridge, Uxbridge and Mendon, it passes into the state of Rhode Island, where it changes its name to Pawtucket, and meets the tide waters in Providence river. Blackwater River, N. H. Blackwater river, N. H. so called from its dark appearance, is formed by two small streams, one of which rises La Danbury, and the other is- sues from Pleasant pond, in New London. These branches unite soon after crossing the \V. line of Andover, and form the Blackwater, which passes through the S. W. part of that town; from thence through the W. part of the towns of Salisbu- ry and Boscawen into Hopkinton, where it empties into Contoocook river. Blancliard, Me. Somerset co. This town lies 116 miles from Augusta. In 1837, 79.5 bushels of wheat was raised here. Population, same year, 261. See Barnard, Me. 4* Blaudford, Mass. Hampden co. Branches of West- field river rise in this town and give it a good water power. Blandford was incorporated in 1741. It was originally settled by a company from the north of Ireland. It lies 114 miles W. by S. from Boston, and 15 W. by N. from Springfield. Popu- lation, 1837, 1,443. The manufac- tures of the place consist of woolen cloth, paper and leather. Annual amount, iji<50,.'J00. The agricultu- ral products sent to market in lS3(j, amounted to $22,340. There were in the town 1,535 cows and 1,822 merino sheep. Block Island, R. I. See J\''eiv Shoreham. Bloody Brook, Mass. See Deerfield. Bloonifleld, Me. Somerset co. This town was in- corporated in 1814, and lies on Ken- nebec river, 33 miles N. from Au- gusta and 7 below Norridgewock, opposite to Skowhegan. Popula- tion, 1837, 1,053. Bloomfield is a fine township of land, and produced in 1837 5,080 bushels of wheat. Bloomfield, Vt. Essex CO. Bloomfield lies on the W. side of Connecticut river, and is also watered by branches of the Nulhcgan. Population, 1830, 150. It is about 20 miles N. from Guild- hall, and 60 N. E. from Montpclier. Bloomfield, Ct. Hartford co. This was formerly a parish in Windsor, called Winton- bury. It derived its name from the circumstance of the parish being formed from Windsor, Farmingtori and Simsbury ; the name Win-ton- bury being a part of the name oX each of those towns. It was incor- porated into a town in 1835. The inhabitants enjoy a fine soil, and cul- tivate it with great industry, pro- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ducing large crops of grass and grain, with an abundance of choice fruit. It lies about six miles N. from Hartford. Population, about 1,400. Blue Hill and Bay, Me. Hancock co. The town lies at the head of a large bay, of the same name, 12 miles E. from Castine, and 78 E. from Augusta. There are several large ponds in Blue Hill, and a hill of 960 feet in height, from which delightful mai-ine scenery is presented. Incorporated 1789. Pop- ulation, 1837, 1,808. The bay has Long and other islands inside ; and outside, Burntcoat, and a group of smaller islands. Blue Hill bay is connected with Penobscot bay and river by a passage between the islands and main land, of about 12 miles. It lies about 16 miles W. from Frenchman's bay. Blue Hills. The first range of mountains on the eastern coast of New Hamp- shire and Maine ; and the elevated lands in Milton, Mass. are thus de- nominated, in consequence of their blue or cloud-like appearance, at a distance, on the ocean. Boar's Head, IV. H. See Hampton. Bolton, Vt. Chittenden co. Population, 1830, 452. 17 miles S. E. from Burling- ton, and 17 N. W. from Montpelier. Incorporated, 1763. Bolton lies on the western side of the Green Mountains. Onion river passes through the town, on the banks of which most of the inhabitants re- side. Bolton, Mass. A good farming town in the coun- ty of Worcester, 31 miles W. by N. from Boston, and 15 N. N. E. from Worcester. Incorporated, 1738. Population, 1837, 1,185. Itlies be- tween Concord and Nashua rivers. Here are good limestone, and small manufactures of boots, shoes, leath- er and combs. Bolton, Ct. Tolland co. This town lies 14 miles E. from Hartford, and 10 mile.« S, by W. from Tolland. Popula- tion, 1830, 744. The soil is a coarse, hard, gravelly loam, fit only for grazing. It is within the granite region of the eastern section of the state. The Bolton Stone Quarry is quite noted. " The stone is a spe- cies of slate, of a brilliant light gray color, composed of mica and quartz, and is excellent for flagging and other purposes. It is extensive- ly used in the principal cities of the United States. For strength it ex- ceeds any otiier knownin this coun- try, and the demand for it is rapidly increasing." The supply is inex- haustible. Boon Island, Me., A ledge of rocks, with a light- house thereon ; about 9 miles E. from Kittery. Near this island the steamljoat New England, on her passage from Boston to Gardiner, met a fatal disaster, by coming in contact with a loaded coaster, on the night of the 31st of May, 1838, by which many valuable lives were jeopardized. Bootlibay, Mc. Lincoln co. This town is bound- ed W. by the mouth of Sheepscot river, N. by Edgecomb, E. by Damariscotta river, and S. by the ocean. It is nearly surrounded by water, and is noted for its excellent harbor. Its maritime situation ren- ders it a place of considerable busi- ness in the coasting trade and fish- eries. This town lies 39 miles S. S. E. from Augusta, 12 E. N. E. from Wiscasset, 60 E. N. E. from Port- land, and about 40 miles S. W. by W. from Owl's Head, by water. Boothbay is a fine watering place. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. and mnny visit it, in summer months, for healtli or pleasure. Here may be found all the enjoyments of sea air and bathing ; fishing and fowl- ing ; ocean and island scenery; for which A'ahant, in JNIassachusetts bay, is justly celebrated. Incorpo- rated, 1764. Population, 1837, 2,562. Bosca-tven, N. H. Merrimack co. Boscawen is sit- uated between Concord and Salis- bury, on the W. side of Merrimack river. Boscawen is 8 miles N. W. from Concord. Besides the Merri- mack, the west part of this town is watered by Blackwater river, run- ning nearly parallel with the for- mer, through the whole extent of the town, and about five miles dis- tant from it. It is not a large stream, but very important, both on account of the fertile fields of champaign on its borders, and the numerous wa- ter privileges it affords. There are two ponds of some note. Great pond, near the centre of the town, Long pond, in the west part, and mill scats at the outlet of each. Boscawen is of a deep, productive soil, affording many excellent farms delightfully situated. The surface, when view- ed from its highest parts, appears uncommonly level. From the nu- merous streams of living water, and from the peculiar direction of the swells of the hills, this town prob- ably derives that pure air and uni- form temperature which are so con- ducive to health. The principal village is in the east section of the town. It is situated on a spacious street nearly two miles in length, very straight and level. Here the eye of the traveller is attracted and delighted by the fertile intervales and windings of the river Merri- mack. There is another village on a pleasant eminence near the west meeting house. Boscawen was granted by Massachusetts in 1733. The proprietors gave to it the name of Contuocook, after the Indian name of the river. It received its present name when it was incorpo- rated, April 22, 1760, from Edward Boscawen, a celebrated English ad- miral then on the American station. The first settlement commenced early in the season of 1734. Abi- gail Danforth was the first child born in the town. The Indians made frequent predatory incursions on the inhabitants. See Duston's Island. Among the deceased citizens of this place entitled to respectful no- tice, are, George Jackman, Esq., the first town clerk, who continued in office 36 years. He was appoint- ed a justice of the peace under Geo. II. and continued in that office during all successive changes down to 1318. Rev. Samuel Wood, D. D., for more than half a century the min- ister of Boscawen, was distinguish- ed for his learning and piety. Hon. Ezekiel Webster, a native of Salisbury, resided here many years. He was an eminent barris- ter at law, of extraordinary talents, and great private worth. He died in tlie court house, at Concord, April 10, 1829, aged 49, beloved and lamented by all who knew his character. Population, 1830, 2,093. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. MORTON. County of Suffolk. The ancient city of Boston, the capital of Mas- sachusetts, and of New England, and the birth place of American Free- dom, is naturally divided into three sections — Old Boston, South Boston, and East Boston, situated at the western extremity of Massachusetts Bay. The peninsula on which Old Boston is built, extends from Roxbu- ry, on the south, to Winnesimet Ferry, on the north, and is nearly sur- rounded by the waters of Boston harbor on the east, and Charles river on the north and west. Its length is nearly three miles, and its average breadth about one mile. It originally contained about 700 acres, but its territory has been greatly extended, by filling up around its borders. Its surface is quite uneven. It has numerous eminences, rising from 50 to 110 feet above the sea, affording admirable sites for building, and giving to it a peculiarly romantic appearance. It is in north Lat. 42° 21' 23" and west Lon. 71° 4' 9". It lies 16.3 miles S. S. W. from Augusta, Me. ; 63 S. S. E. from Concord, N. H. ; 160 S. E. by S. from Montpelier, Vt. ; 158 E. (19' S.) from Albany, N. Y. ; 40 N. N. E. from Providence, R. I. ; 97 E. N. E. from Hartford, Ct. ; 207 N. E. by E. from New York, and 432 miles N. E. by E. from Washington. Its Indian name was Shatv- mut. It was called by the first settlers Tramount, Treinont, or Tri- mountain, from three hills nearly in its centre. It took its present name on the 7th of Sept., 1630, in honor of the Rev. John Cotton, second min- ister of the first church, who came from Boston, in England. The orig- inal proprietor of this territory was John Blackstone, who, soon after its settlement by Winthrop and others, removed to Rhode Island. Boston was incorporated as a city, February 23, 1822. South Boston. This part of Boston was set off from Dorchester, by legislative enact- ment, March the 6th, 1804. It is bounded south by Dorchester Bay, and spreads about two miles on the south side of the harbor, above the forts. It contains about 600 acres, and is laid out into regular streets and squares. The surface of this part of Boston is exceedingly picturesque. In about the centre of this tract, and about two miles from the City Hall, the memorable " Dorchester Heights" rear their heads 130 feet above the sea, from which is presented a splendid view of Boston, its harbor, and the surrounding country. It is connected with Old Boston by two bridges. This part of Boston is rapidly increasing in population and wealth. The Washington House, near the " Heights," is a noble building, and a delightful residence. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. East Boston. This section of the city, until recently, had been called jS'oddle's Isl- and. It lies about 660 yards N. E. from Old Boston, and about the same distance from Charlestown. It is divided from Chelsea by Chelsea Creek, 600 feet wide, over which is a bridge, and from which is an excellent road to the Salem turnpike. The Eastern rail-road, to Salem, Newbu- ryport, &c., commences at East Boston. The island contains about 660 acres of land, and a large body of flats. It was purchased by a compa- ny of enterprizing gentlemen in 1832. They were incorporated in March, 1833, and the tirst house was commenced in October of the same year. A steam-boat ferry is established between this place and Old Boston, starting from each side every five minutes. The time occupied in cross- ing is about three minutes. A ferry is about being established between tliis island and Charlestown. The surface of the island is pleasingly va- riegated, and aflbrds delightful sites for dwelling houses and gardens at moderate prices. This place is well located for manufactories of vari- ous kinds; particularly for ship building, and all those branches of me- chanics connected with navigation. The Maverick Hotel is a large and splendid building, occupying a commodious site. This house is named in honor of Samuel Maverick, who owned the island and resided there in 1630, and who is said to have made " some figure in the history of after times — a man of very loving and courteous behavior, and very ready to entertain strangers." Boston Harbor, Extends across Light House Channel and Broad Sound, from Pcir.t Al- derton on Nantasket, to Point Shirley in Chelsea, a distance, between the islands, of about 4 miles. It is safe, and of ample capacity for the larg- est navy. The most important part of this harbor is entered by a narrow pass, between two and three miles below the city and Navy Yard ; and is well protected by two powerful forts — Independence and Warren. The outer harbor, below these forts, will shortly be protected by a very pow- erful fortress now erecting on George's Island, at a great expense, by the government of the United States. Boston harbor contains many islands of great beauty, and is the reservoir of the Afystic, Charles-, J\'eponset, Manatiquot and other rivers. Its borders are environed by the towns of Hull, Hingham, Weymouth, Braintree, Quincy, Dorchester, Roxbu- ry, Brookline, Cambridge, Charlestown, and Chelsea; and the numerous small bays, coves and inlets, indenting their shores, give great variety, and add much to the scenery of this delightful harbor. Owing to the almost insular situation of Boston, and its limited extent, its population appears small. But it must be considered that the neigh- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. boring towns of Quincy, Dorchester, Milton, Roxl)ury, Brookline, Brigh- ton, Watei'town, Cambridge, Charlestown, Medford, Maiden, and Chel- sea, although not included in the city charter, are component parts of the city, and are as much associated with it in all its commercial, manufac- turing, literary, and social relations and feelings, as Greenwich, Man- hattanville, and Harlem are with the city of New York; or Southwark and the Northern Liberties with Philadelphia. The population of Boston in 1700, was 7,000—1722, 10,567—1765, 15,520—1790, 18,038—1800, 24,937—1810, 33,250-1820, 43,298—1830, 61,391, and in 1837, 80,325. Avenues. The peninsular situation of Boston requires many artificial avenues to and from the surrounding country. Until 1786, the " Neck," between Boston and Roxbury, one mile and 117 feet in length, was the only pas- sage to it by land. On the 17th June, of that year, the Charles River Bridge, leading from Boston to Charlestown, was opened for travel. It was incorporated, March 9, 1785. This bridge is 1,503 feet in length, 42 in breadth, and cost $50,000. Net revenue in 1834, $9,383. This bridge by its charter becomes state property in 1856. West Boston Bridge, leading to Cambridge, was opened on the 23d of November, 1793. It was incorporated March 9, 1792. Length of the bridge, 2,758 feet -abutment and causeway, 3,432 — total length, 6,190 feet. Cost, $76,6o~. Net revenue in 1834, $12,923. This > ridge will become state property in 1879. South Boston ^ridge, leading from Boston Neck to South Boston, was iricGrpcr:^ted March 6, 1804, and opened for travel in July, 1805, Length, 1,550 feet — width, 40. It cost the proprietors about $50,000. It is now city property — free. Canal Bridge, from Boston to Lechmere Point, in East Cambridge, was incorporated February 27, 1807, and opened for travel in August, 1809. Length, 2,796 feet— width, 40. A lateral bridge extends from this to Prison Point, Charlestown. Length, 1,820 — width, 35 feet. Net receipts in 1834, $3,173. This bridge will become state property in 1879. The Western Avenue, leading from Beacon street to SewelVs Point, in Brookline, was incorporated June 14, 1814, and commenced in 1818. It was opened for travel, July 2, 1821. This avenue is a substantial dam across Charles river bay, about a mile and a half in length, and from 60 to 100 feet in width. This dam encloses about 600 acres of flats, over which the tide formerly flowed from 7 to 10 feet. A partition dam di- vides this enclosure, and forms, by the aid of flood and ebb gates, a full NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. and receiving basin ; thereby producing, at all times, a great hydraulic power. The cross dam also forms an excellent avenue from the main dam to Roxbury. Cost, about $700,000. Net receipts in 1834, $6,133. The proprietors of this avenue claim a perpetual franchise. Boston Free Bridge, from Sea street to South Boston. Incorporated, March 4, 1S26— completed, 1828. Length, .'500— width, 38 feet. Built by proprietors of lands in the vicinity. City property. Warren Bridge, leading to Charlestown. Length, 1,390 feet — width, 44. Incorporated March 12, 1828, and opened on the December follow- ing. It is now state property. The net receipts of this bridge in 1834, were ,f 16,427. All the above avenuas are lighted with lamps, when necessary, and make a beautiful appearance. Public Buildings. Some of those of the most prominent character only can be mentioned. The City Hall, or '•' the Old State House," on State and Washington streets, now occupied by the city government, Post-OtRce, Reading-Room, &c., is 110 feet in length, 38 in breadth, and 3 stories high. Two build- ings on this spot have been destroyed by lire. The first was built in 1659, the second in 1714, and the present in 1748. Until the erection of the present State House, this building had ever been used for governmental purposes, both colonial and state. Faneuil Hall, or the " Cradle of Liberty," in Dock Square, is three stories high, 100 feet by 80, and was the gift of Peter Faneuil, Esq. to the town, in 1742. The building was enlarged in 1805, and until the new Market was btiilt the lower part of it was used for meat stalls. It is now improved for stores. The Hall is 76 tect square, 28 feet high, and has deep galleiies on three sides. It is adorned with superb paintings of patriots, warriors and statesmen. Tlie tliird stoi'y is improved for armo- ries. State House. This building is on an open square, on Beacon-street, fronting the malls and common. Its foundation is 110 feet above the lev- el of the sea. It was commenced in 1795, and completed and occupied in 1793. Cost, $133,-333. Length, 173 feet— breadth, 61. On the area of the lower hall stands the beautiful Statue of ]Vasliington, by Chan- try. From the top of the dome on this building, 52 feet in diameter, and 230 feet above the level of the harbor, the whole city appears beneath, with all its crooked streets, its extended avenues, its splendid buildings, and the malls and common, crossed with romantic walks, and shaded by centurian elms. On the north and west the county of ]\Iiddlesex pre- sents its numerous villas, and a rich array of agricultural taste and beau- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ty. Here are viewed the hallowed halls of Harvard, and the sacred field of Bunker. On the south the county of Norfolk appears, with its granite hills and luxuriant vales, chequered with a thousand farm houses, cottages, and splendid mansions. On the east, the city, with its lofty spires, the harbor and the ocean, all conspire to render this the most en- chanting scene west of the Bay of Naples. The Massachusetts Hospital is on an open plot of ground of 4 acres, at the western part of the city, on the banks of Charles river. It is 168 feet in length, and 54 in breadth. Commenced in ISIS, completed in 1821. This building is of granite, and is a beautiful monument of taste and beneficence. Faneuil Hall Market. The corner stone of this superb granite building was laid on the 27th of April 1825, and completed in 1827. Cost, $150,000, exclusive of land. It extends east of Faneuil Hall, on Dock square, 536 feet, and is 50 feet in width. The centre part of the build- ing, 74 by 55, projects two or three feet on the north and south, and rises 77 feet from the ground, to a beautiful dome. The wings are 31 feet, and two stories high. The lower floor is exclusively appropriated as a meat, fish and vegetable market. The upper story is one vast hall, ar- ranged to be divided into compartments for ware-rooms and large sales. On the sides of this building are JVorth Market street, 65, and South Market street, 102 feet in width ; on each of which is a range of spa- cious ware-houses, with granite fronts. On the east, across Commercial street, is a commodious Avharf, belonging to the city. The hall, in the centre of the building is called Quincy Hall, in honor of Josiah Quincy, L.L. D., the late indefatigable mayor of the city, and now president of Harvard University. Tremont House. This superb hotel, on Tremont and Beacon streets, was commenced on the 4th of July, 1828, and completed 16th of October, 1829. Its granite front on Tremont street is 160 feet, and 3 stories high. The wings are four stories high ; that on Beacon street is 84 by 34 feet ; and that on the south, fronting an open square, is 110 by 40 feet. This building contains 180 rooms. The dining hall is 70 by 31, and 14 feet high. Cost, $68,000, without the land. JVew) Court House. The corner stone of this building, in Court square, between Court and School streets, for the accomm-odation of all the courts of law for the county, city, and the United States, offices of record, &c., was laid Sept. 28, 1833. It is of cut, or hewn granite, from the Quincy quarry. Its length is 175 feet 10 inches; — width, 53 feet 10 inches, and height 57 feet 3 inches. A portico of nearly the same model of the Doric portico at Athens, adorns its north and south fronts. There are four columns of fluted gi-anite at each of these porticos, mea3- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. uring 25 feet 4 inches in length, and 4 feet 5 inches in diameter. They weigh 25 tons each. The interior contains four court rooms, 50 feet by 40, and large and commodious offices for all the respective departments. Houses of Industry, Correction, and Reformation. These houses are deli<;litfully situated on a plot of ground of about 61 acres, situated at South Boston, on the margin of the harbor, and near the brow of Dor- chester Heights. Trinity Church, in Summer street, St. PauVs Church and the Ma- sonic Temple, in Tremont street, the Washington Bank, in Washing- ton street, the granite building lately erected by the Suffolk Bank, the United Stales Bank, in State street, and the Steeple of Park street Church, arc some of the best specimens of archifecture in Boston. Schools and Institutions. The first settlers of New England were exceedingly tenacious of their civil and religious rights, and they well knew that knowledge was an all-powerful engine to preserve those rights, and transmit them to their posteiity. They tliercfore very early laid the foundation of those free schools, of which all the sons and dauglitcrs of New England ai'c justly proud. Exclusive of Infant and Sabbath school scholars, about a quar- ter part of the population of Boston is kept at school throughout the year, at an annual expense of about ^200,000. Boston is not only cele- brated for its schools, but for its munificent donations in support of its institutions for moral, religious, and literary purposes. Since the year ISOO, not less than two millions of dollars have thus been appropriated by the citizens of Boston. New Ensclnud Institution for the Education of the Blind. This Institution was incorporated in lS2f); but, liltle was accomplished until 1832, when Dr. Howe returned from Europe accompanied by a blind teacher; manifesting that zeal in the cause of the blind which had distinguished his philanthropic labors, in another sphere, in a distant land. He opened a school with six blind young scholars. The progress of those children was so great, and the value of an Institution of ths kind so apparent, that legislatures and citizens, generally, became much interested. By public and private donations, particularly by the influence of ladies in several parts of New England, and by the munifi- cent gift of a splendid building in Pcarkstreet, by the Hon. Thomas H. Perkins, the Institution has increased, both in reputation and funds, with unparalleled success. The scholars are instructed in all those branches common in other schools, and some of them in the higher branches of literature. Music is the study of all. Mechanical labors are taught and enjoyed by llic pupils. ^lusical instruments of all kinds, and other o NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEEU. implements are provided for their convenience and use. A printing press is established, and several books have been printed in embossed letters, which are superior to any in Europe. It is exceedingly delight- ful to see these interesting youth, whose lives once seemed a dreary waste, and to witness their improvement in acquiring useful knowledge, partaking of all those recreations, natural and proper for their age, sex, and condition, and fitting themselves for useful stations in society. The Institution is managed by a board of trustees, and is patronized by the governments of all the New England States, Eye and Ear Infirmary. This Institution was commenced in Boston, by Drs. Jeffries and Rey- nolds, in 1824, from a conviction of its utility and importance, derived from what they had seen and known of similar establishments in Europe. Those gentlemen conducted the establishment at their own expense for some time, during which large numbers received the most important benefits. In 1827, by the philanthropic exertions of those, and other gentlemen, an act of incorporation was obtained, and some funds were raised. As early as 1828, 2,610 cases were treated at the Infirmary, of which about five-sixths were cured. Of these cases about one-sixth were for diseases of the ear. Since that time the number of applicants has increased annually ; and this Institution, whose merits are not sur- passed by any other in the city, has now a beautiful and commodious building in Bowdoin square for the reception of patients. Theatres. The Boston Tlieafre, on Federal and Franklin streets, was first open- ed February 3, 1794. It was burnt, February 2, 1798 ; it was re-built, and re-opened on the 29th of October, the same year. It is of brick, 152 feet long, 61 wide, and 40 high. This building is now denominated " The Odeon," and is consecrated to the worship of God. A huge wood- en building was erected on Tremont street, and opened as the " Hay- Market Theatre," December 26, 1796. The citizens in its neighbor- hood being fearful of its conflagration, caused its demolition, by subscrip- tion, and the block of elegant brick dwelling-houses, near, and north of Boylston street, now occupy the spot. The Tremont Theatre, on Tremont street, is a very neat building, with a granite front 135 feet by 79. It was commenced in July, and opened September 24, 1827. Cost, about $120,000. The J\"ational Theatre, at the junction of Portland and Traverse streets, near the Warren bridge, was constructed in 1831. This build- ing was first used for equestrian performances. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Bostou Common. This is considered one of the most delightful promenades in the world. It comprises about 75 acres of land, of variegated surface, beautifully shaded by trees of various kinds, particularly in the malls, or walks which surround it. Some of those trees were planted more than a Viun- dred years ago. The malls are wide, beveled, graveled, and smooth; the waters of Charles river, and the romantic scenery beyond it, are in prospect. The whole is enclosed by an iron fence, on the outside of which are wide streets and beautiful buildings. The distance around the malls and common is about a mile. This plot of ground is so held by the city, that it can never be appropriated to any other than its pres- ent healthful and pleasing purposes. The foundation of a large and splendid Botanic Garden was laid in 1837, by the subscription of funds for that purpose. It is located on the city lands, on the west side of the Common. This will be a great ornament to the city, and an honor to the taste and judgment of its projectors. Finances. The public debt of the city of Boston on the 1st of May, 18.37, was $1,497,200. The receipts, during the financial year, from the 30th of April, 1836, to 30th April, 1837, was $926,350— the expenditures, $904,065. Besides the public property in public buildings, city and other wharves, &c. &,c., both improved for city purposes, and rented, the city has about 7,000,000 square feet of land on the Neck, exclusive of streets, public squares, and malls, and a very large property in other lands in various parts of the city, which are rapidly increasing in value. The amount of this property cannot be stated, but it is known greatly to ex- ceed the city debt, exclusive of that part which is wanted for the uses of the city. Commerce. The citizens of Boston have ever sustained a high rank for their com- mercial enterprise. After whitening every sea with their canvass, and extending their commerce with all nations of the globe, they are now looking westward and northicard, and constructing new and artificial channels, to enable them not only to compete with other Atlantic cities for the already immense commerce of the western world, but to inter- cept it on its passage down the St. Lawrence. The number of vessels entered at this port the year ending September 30, 1837, was 1,544— tonnage, 242,277 tons— crews, 11,503 :— cleared, 1,367, tonnage, 184,373 tons — crews, 9,177. The registered, enrolled and licensed tonnage of this port, the same year, was 201,005 tons. A large amount of tonnage, owned at Boston, is registered at southern ports. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Commercial Accommodations. There is probably no place in the world better accommodated for com- mercial operations than Boston. The whole length of the harbor on the east and north is lined with about 200 docks and wharves. A few of them only can be noticed, India Wliarf, at the foot of Fort Hill, was constructed in 1805. It extends into the harbor 980 feet, and is 246 to 2S0 feet in width. In the centre is a range of 39 stores, 22 by SO, and 4 stories in height. Central Wharf, between India and Long wharves, was built in 1816. In the centre are .54 ware-houses, 23 by 50, 4 stories high. It is 1,379 feet in length, and 150 in width. Over a spacious hall in the centre of this range of stores, is one of the best observatories in the United States. North of this is Long Wharf, at the foot of State street, commenced in 1710. This wharf extends into the harbor 1,800 feet, is 200 feet ia width, and has 76 spacious ware-houses. About the centre of th.s wharf is a well of fresh water, 90 feet in depth. Passing the City wharf on the north, we come to Commercial Mliarf, 1,100 feet in length, and 160 in width. On the centre of this wharf is a range of 34 granite ware-houses, 25 by 60 feet, and are unequalled by any thing of the kind in the United States for convenience or grandeur. Cost, $500,000. On the west, and in front of this tier of wharves, which run into the harbor nearly parallel to each other, are India and Conunercial streets, having the east end of Faneuil Hall Market nearly in the centre. These streets are wide ; they serve as wharves, and their west sides are cover- ed with large and convenient stores. It is contemplated to extend India street, on the south, to the Free Bridge on Sea street ; and Commercial street, on the north, to Winnesimet Ferry. (See Hale's Map of Boston.) The Marine Railways, established in 1826, at the north part of the city, afford great accommodations to those engaged in navigation. A new and splendid Custom House is now erecting on India street, between Long and Central wharves. An Exchange, for the accommodation of merchants, and a new City Hall, are contemplated. Maimfactures. Although Boston has never been considered a manufacturing city, yet, since the general peace in Europe, in 1815, and the passage of the present tariff laws, in 1S33, its manufacturing interests have considerably increased. The following are the manufactures of Boston for the year ending April 1, 1837, with the value of each, the number of hands employed, and the amount of capital invested, so far as can be ascertained. It may be proper to observe, that the following account is doubtless NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. accurate, as far it extends, but it is known that in some towns in Massa- chusetts the whole amount of their manufactures has not been stated by the assessors. ARTICLES. \'alue. 1 Hands euiploy'd Males. iFemales. Capital In- vested. Boots and Shoes, $Ut2,(i41 304 55 Leather, 228,000 50 .$60,000 Hats, 194,673 95 68 Iron Castings, 372,000 2S9 665,000 Axes, 7,500 8 2,000 Glass, 4S,000 77 47,000 Chairs and Cabinet Ware, 148,100 164 Combs, 41,000 25 16 121,000 Tin Ware, 112,032 116 Spirits, 92(),S56 19 Straw Bonnets, 1S2.450 438 Vessels, (average for 5 years,) 124,400 17 Axletrees, 10,000 6 6,000 Beer, 12,000 s 30,000 Soap and Candles, 93,000 29 125,000 Whale Oil, 135,000 16 100,000 Copper and Brass, 756,754 200 316,300 Organs and Piano-fortes, 302,700 220 163,500 Brushes, 93,000 79 59 38,000 Gold and Silver Leaf, 43,000 22 14 11,200 Carriages and Harnesses, 318,805 298 82,200 Refined Sugar, 976,454 92 303,633 Silver Ware and Jewelry, 228,100 88 111,050 Chain Cables, 60,000 20 75,000 Umbrellas, 65,000 37 26 36,.50O Saddles, Trunks and Whips, 177,000 120 17 83,000 Granite, Marble, &c. 336,000 400 165,500 Machinery, 326,000 287 183,775 Blank Books and Stationary, 78,000 43 7 49,000 Gas, 100,000 40 375,000 Looking Glasses and Frames, 147,500 42 55,600 Lasts, 40,000 29 18,000 Neck Stocks, &c. 122,000 21 435 58,200 Types and Stereotypes, 157,000 185 30 140,000 Printed Books, 925,000 500 400 850,000 Clothing, 1,887,666 542 2402 769,094 Hard Ware, 40,000 29 18,000 Baskets, &c. 93,000 138 4,655 3,967 38,000 Totals, $10,010,631 Fisheries. The city of Boston is so limited, in regard to territory, as to he exclud- ed, in a great measure, from participating in the fisheries. Much capi- taA of the Bostonians is, however, invested, at the out ports, in this im- portant branch of the resources of the wealth of New England. During NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the year ending April 1, 1837, there were belonging to this city four ves- sels engaged in the whale fishery, and 152 in the cod and mackerel fish- eries, employing 1,919 hands. Total tonnage, 11,253 tons. Total pro- ceeds, $824,898. Capital employed, $748,200. Health. To judge of the health of a city we must compare its bills of mortality, for a series of years, with those of some other city. We have ever believed that the climate of Boston, and of New England generally, was as con- ductive to health as any portion of our country; but having heard it often asserted that the climate of Boston was moi-e favorable to some diseases, particularly those of a pulmonary character, or what is com- monly called consumption, than that of our sister city New York, we have examined with great care the authenticated bills of mortality of each city for five successive years, (1830 — 1834, inclusive.) The popu- lation of Boston, in 1830, was 61,391— of New York, 202,589— a frac- tion less than 3 1-3 in New York to 1 in Boston. From 1820 to 1830, the average increase of the population of Boston was a fraction less than 4 per cent, per annum — that of New York a fraction less than 6 1-3 per cent, per annum. The aggregate number of deaths in Boston during those five years, was 7,340 — New York, 35,087 : — a fraction more than 4 2-3 in New York to 1 in Boston. In that period, the aggregate number of deaths in Boston, by consumption, was 1,128 — in New York 6,124: — more than 5 1-3 in New York to 1 in Boston. Fires. Boston, in common with all large towns which are chiefly built of wood, has suffered very much by fire. Fifty years ago the buildings in the town were principally of that material ; but by efficient measures adopted by the citizens, particularly the law of 1803, prohibiting the con- struction of wooden buildings of a greater height than 10 feet, a large por- tion of the old buildings have been taken down, and their places, with thousands of others on new sites, now present to that destructive element solid walls of brick and stone. A few of the most memorable fires are here given. In October 1711, a fire broke out in Williams' Court and destroyed most of the buildings on both sides of Cornhill, now Washing- ton street, from School street to Market square. On the 20th of March 1760, 174 dwelling-houses, 175 ware-houses, shops, &c. were burnt. This fire was in the centre of the town, (Cornhill, State and Congress streets to Fort Hill,) and the amount of property consumed, was estimated at £100,000 sterling. April 24, 1787, a fire commenced in Beach street, and extending south, destroyed about 60 dwelling-houses, 40 other build- ings, and the church in Hollis street. July 30, 1794. Seven rope-walks, between Pearl and Atkinson streets, and about 90 other buildings in that NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. neighborhood were destroyed. Loss estimated at more than $200,000. Ou the 3d of November, 1818, the Boston Exchange Coffee-House, in Congress-square, was destroyed by fire. This building covered 12,- 753 feet of land. It was 7 stories high, and from the floor to the top of the dome was 83 feet. It contained 210 apartments, and cost about half a million of dollars. The conflagration occurred in the evening, and the sight was awfully sublime. On the 7th of July, 1S21, at noon, (the wind blowing almost a gale,) 15 costly dwelling-houses were burnt, on Beacon, Charles and Chesnut streets. A very destructive fire commenced on Doane street, A.pril 7th, 1824, when 53 large ware-houses, in that part of the city, with a great amount of merchandize, were destroyed. A number of buildings, containing about 35 lawyers' offices, and 20 stores and shops, on Court street, were burnt, Nov. 10, 1825. During five years, 1830 — 1834, inclusive, there were 226 fires — the amount of property destroyed was !*!274,278 : — of which .^140,943 was insured. The most destructive fires were in 1833. In that year 71 fires occurred, $89,970 value of property was destroyed, of which $57,040 was insured. The present Fire Department was organized in 1826. It is always in the most perfect state of preparation for service. Attached to this de- partment are 24 engines, and 16,000 feet of hose. By the most powerful of these engines, with 250 feet of hose, water can be thrown over the grasshopper, on the cupola of Faneuil Hall, 84 feet above the pavement. Water. The subject of pure water for all the various uses of life has ever been one of the first and most important considerations with settlers in all coun- tries. It frequently happens that those places most suitable for com- merce are the least favorable to the ready acquirement of that indispens- able element; consequently the ingenuity and skill of man have devised and executed those stupendous aqueducts, and tanks or reservoirs, both in ancient and modern times, which have made some of the most desolate parts of the globe the greatest marts of trade and most splendid cities. Governor Winthrop and his associates located themselves at Charlestown, and would have continued there had not the waters of Shawmut been more agreable to their tastes. Their change of situation, on that account, is no compliment to their chemical knowledge, for the waters of Charles- town are decidedly the best. Possibly " the magic of a name" might have influenced them ; for Shawmut, in the Indian language, is said to mean " springs of living waters." The city council, in 1834, took the long neglected subject of introduc- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ing soft and pure -vater iii*o the city, into consideration. By analyses of the waters of Boston, one of the best wells in the city was found to contain 3.6 grains of the salts of sulphate of lime, muriate of soda and muriate ol lime, to the pound of water. The well is 30 feet deep, and is situate high on the side of a hill. Some wells were found to contain 7.5 grains of the above salts, and many others a much greater quantity of noxious matter. An able en^i'ieer stated that in October 1834, there were 2,767 wells in the city; of which number 2,085 were drinkable, and 682 bad; and that only 7 of the whole number were occasionally used for washing. The engineer also stated that " all the dug or Artesian wells of Boston, are in strata of different materials in very irregular position, so that whatever may be the success in making one well, no certain result can be predica- ted upon another trial at a short distance from the first. The wells in town are polluted by the dirty water at the surface being absorbed, set- tling and mingling with the veins below ; or are adulterated by mixture with little streams of sea-water." The Boston Aqueduct Corporation commenced operations for convey- ing water into the city from Jamaica pond, in Roxbury, in 1795. The distance from Boston to the pond is four miles, and the number of feet of logs laid in the city is 72,000, or about 18 miles. The greatest quantity of water that can be supplied from this source is 50,000 gallons daily, and the greatest height it can be raised in the city is 49 feet above tide-water. According to the estimates of the quantity of water used in London and Philadelphia, about 28 gallons daily would be required for every person in the city. This includes all that is commonly used for stables, wash- ing streets, the extinguishment of fires, for manufacturing, and all other purposes. The quantity of water necessary for the present population is therefore about 2,500,000 gallons, daily. Spot pond in Stoneham, 8 miles from the city ; Mystic pond in Charlestown and Medford, 7 miles ; Long pond, in Natick, 16 miles ; or the waters of Charles river, taken at Watertown, 7 miles from the city, would almost inundate the misnamed Shawmut with soft and pure water, at an expense of about a million of dollars. Philadelphia, by lier incomparable water works, has added a lustre to her bright name ; New York is following her noble example, by bringing the Croton river, 45 miles, to the centi-e of the city, at an expense of five millions of dollars ; and Boston cannot much longer re- main insensible of the value of pure water, to the health and comfort of its people. Antiquities. Boston was described by Johnson in his " Wonder Working Provi- dence," about the year 1663, in the following words: — " Invii-oned it is with brinish floods, saving one small Istmos, which NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. gives free access to the neighboring towns by land, on the south side, on the northwest and northeast. Two constant fairs aie kejjt tor daily traliquc thereunto. The form of this town is like a heart, naturally sit- uated for fortifications, liaving two hills on the frontier part there )f next the sea, the one well fortified on the superlicies thereof, with store of great artillery well mounted. The other hath a very strong battery built of whole timber, and filled with earth; at the descent of the hill, in the extreme poynt thereof betwixt these two strong arms lies a cove or bay, on which the chief part of this town is built, overtopped with a third hill ; all these like overtopping towers, keep a constant watch to see the approach of foreign dangers, being furnished with a beacon and loud babbling guns to give notice by their redoubled echo to all the sister towns. The chief edifice of this city-like town is crowded on the sea- banks, and wharfed out with great labour and cost ; the buildings beau- tiful and large, some fairly set forth with brick tile, stone and slate, and orderly placed with semely streets, whose continual enlargement pre- sageth some sumptuous city. But now behold the admirable acts of Christ, at this his people's landing ; the hideous thickets in this place were such that wolves and bears nurst up their young from the eyes of all beholders, in those very places where the streets are full of girls and boys, sporting up and down with continued concourse of people. Good store of shipping is here yearly built, and some very fair ones. This town is the very mart of the land; Dutch, French, and Portugalls come here to trafique." Present condition of Boston. Perhaps at no period since the settlement of Boston has its prosperity been so flattering as for the last seven years. It is true that Boston in- creased in population and wealth with great rapidity during the wars in Europe, from 1794 to 1807. But that growth was unnatural and contin- gent ; it depended solely on the caprice of the belligerent powers, who viewed us rather as servants to their necessities, than with respect. The present state of things is altogether diflerent. The world is at peace. We look for no besieged city to supply witli bread, neither do we seek to run the gauntlet of a blockading squadron to furnish a starving country with the growth and produce of its own colonics. We now rely on our own resources — agriculture, manufactures, the fisheries, and com- merce with all nations with whom we can exchange our commodities at fair prices. So long as we are blessed with union, good schools, good laws, and with all those moral, religious and charitable institutions, which tend to make mankind wiser and better, our city, under Providence, will continue on in the forward path to prosperity and ha|)|)iness. The location of Boston always gave it tlie command of a greater coast- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ing trade than any other port in the United States; but the great arteries to an immense, wide-spread and rapidly increasing interior commerce were never opened until the rail-roads to the north, the west, the south, and the east were constructed and in operation. By these devices of hu- man wisdom, and by the continuance of the two former — crossing the wa- ters of our own Connecticut to the noble Hudson, and piercing the cen- tfe of a large and fertile country, to the outlet of the great western oceans on the banks of the St. Lawrence, Boston, with its enterprize and wealth, located 160 miles nearer the British capital than New l^ork, can- not fail of sustaining a fair and successful competition for this trade with any city on the Aujerican continent. Motto of the City. Sicut patrihus sit Deus nobis. As God was with our fathers, so may he be WITH us. Kow, N. H., Merrimack co., was originally laid out nine miles square, compre- hending a great portion of the ter- ritory now constituting Pembroke and Concord. It is bounded N. E. hy Merrimack river, which divides it from Pembroke, S. E. by Hook- sett, S. W. by Dunbarton, N. W. by Concord and a part of Hopkin- ton. The soil is very uneven and hard, but productive when well managed. There is but one pond of any size, called Tuikey pond. Turkey river empties into the Mer- rimack at Turkey falls, near the N. E. part of Bow. About a mile be- low are Garven's falls, now passable by locks on Bow side. Bow canal is situated on the Merrimack, 3 miles below Concord ; the perpen- dicular measurement around which it is carried is 25 feet — its length 1-3 of a mile. It passes through a ledge of granite, and is for the most part imperishable. Its cost was $13,860 ; and about $2,000 of its first income were appropriated towards clearing channels through Turkey falls, &,c. Pop. 1830, 1,065. Samuel Welch, the oldest native citizen of New Hampshire, died in Bow on the 5th of April, 1823, at the age of 113 years. He was bora at Kingston, Sept. 1st, 1710, where he spent the early part of his life; he lived subsequently a while at Pembroke ; but for 50 years preced- ing his death he resided at Bow, in an obscure corner, and steadily cultivated his little farm, till the frosts of a century had whitened his locks, and the chills of a hun- dred winters had benumbed his frame. His life was marked by no extraordinary vicissitude — he was never in battle, or in any public service ; he was a man of industry and temperance. Bowback Moiiiitatn. See Stratford, JV". H. Botvdoiu, Me. Lincoln co. This agricultural township is bounded on the S. E. by Bowdoinham, and S. by Tops- ham. It was incorporated in 1788, and lies 17 miles W. from Wiscas- set, 37 N. N. E. from Portland, and NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. 20 S. S. W. from Augusta. Popu- lation, 1837, 2,173. Bcwdoiuhaiu, Me. Lincola co. A pleasant town on the west side of Kennebec river, and north of Topsliani. Here is considerable business in the lum- ber trade and ship building. Twen- ty miles S. by W. from Augusta, and 12 N. from Bath. Pojjuiation, 1S37, 2,21S. Incorporated, 17()2. Boxborougli, Itlass. Middlesex co. Incorporated, 17S3. Population, 1837, 433. Some shoe's, palm-leaf hats and straw bonnets are manufactured in this town, and large quantities of hops are grown. It lies 2.} miles N. W. by W. from Boston, and 9 W. by N. from Con- cord. Good lime-stone is found here. Boxford, Mass. Essex CO. This town lies 26 miles N. from Boston, 13 S. W. from Newburyport, and 10 W. by N. from Ipswich. The annual amount of manufactures of cotton wicking, boots, shoes and ploughs is about $100,000. Population, 1837, 964. Incorporated, 1685. Boylstou, Mass. Worcester co. Incorporated, 1786. Population, 1837, 821. It lies 40 miles W. from Boston, and 8 N. by E. from Worcester. Boylston is watered by Nashua river, and has iron ore and a ledge of crystalized quartz. Here are some manufac- tures of combs, palm-leaf hats, boots and shoes ; — several ponds and fine tish. Bozrali, Ct. New London co. This town was taken from Norwicli in 178(). It was formerly called New Concord. It lies 33 miles E. S. E. from Hart- ford, and 5 W. from Norwich. The soil is a gravelly loam, rich and fer- tile. It is watered by Yantic river, on which are two pleasant and nourishing villages, Bozrahville and Fitchville, at both of which are manufactories for cotton. This town experienced a terrible hail storm on the 1.5lh of July, 1799, by which much property was lost and many cattle injured. The hail fell in immense quantities, some particles of which measured six inclies in circumference. Popula- tion, 1330, 1,073. Bradford, Me. Penobscot co. This town lies 87 miles from Augusta. 4,944 bush- els of wheat was i-aised here in 1837, with a population of 770. — See Barnard, Ale. Bradford, N. H. Merrimack co. Situated about mid- way between the Merrimack and Connecticut rivers, bounded N. by Newbury and Sutton, E. by Warner, S. by Henniker and Hillsborough, W. by Washington ; is 31 miles from Amherst, 25 Irom Concord, and 80 from Boston. This town is watered by small streams, which principally issue from ponds, — of which the largest is Todd's pond, lying in Bi-adfordand Newbury. This pond is supplied with water from the hills and mountains in Newbury. In it are a number of floating islands, which are deemed objects of curiosity. Its outlet forms the northern branch of Warner river. Pleasant, or Bradford pond, is on the E. side of the town. It is about 550 rods lo!ig and 150 wide. It communicates with Warner river by an outlet at the N. end of it. In this pond are several islands, which, with the rugged declivities on the E. hank, the waters below, and the cottages and cultivated tields on the west bank, present to view, in the summer season, a wild and variegated landscape. Many parts of Bradford are hilly. A large proportion of the town, however, lies in a valley, about three miles NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. in width. Near the Sunapee moun- tains, on the N. W., is an extensive plain, more than a mile Ions; and about half a mile wide. Tlie soil differs in quality. It is light, loamy or rough. In the easterly part are valuable stone quarries. Bradford was granted to John Peirce and George Jatirey, in 1765. Its first settlement was made in 1771, by Dea. William Presbury and his family. They were soon followed by several inhabitants from Brad- ford in Mass., from which circum- stance it derived its name. It was incorporated Sept. 27, 1787, and is mentioned in tlie act as including New Bradford, AVashington Gore, and part of Washington. Popula- tion in 1S30, 1,235. Bradford, Vt. Orange co. This town lies on the W. side of Connecticut river, 25 miles S. E. from Montpelier, 7 S. from Newbury, and 15 E. N. E. from Chelsea. Population, 1830, 1,507. Bradford is a pleasant farm- ing town, of good soil, and is well watered by Wait's river. About 4,500 sheep. Bradford, Mass. Essex CO. This is a very pleasant town on the south side of Merrimack river, and united to Haverhill by a bridge of 650 feet in length. The surface of the town is uneven and the soil various ; but much of the land is of a superior quality. Sev- eral of the hills exhibit beautiful scenery. Bradford is celebrated for its excellent schools and seminaries of learning. Here are several ponds, good fishing, and a pleasant stream of water. Some biicks are made here, and considerable leather tan- ned ; but the principal manufacture of the place is of boots and shoes, of which, during the year ending April 1, 1837, the value of $381,748 was made. Total amount of manufactures that year,.'}!39-l,448. Hands employ- ed, 1,096. Incorporated, 1675. Pop- ulation, 1837, 2275. This town lies 28 miles N. from Boston, 10 W. S. W. from Newburyport, IS N. by W. from Salem, and about IS miles N. E. from Lowell. A branch of the Boston and Lowell rail-road passes through Bradford to Haverhill. Bi-adley, Me. Penobscot co. First settled, 1796. Incorporated, 1835. Population, 1837, 338. See Barnard, Me. * Bradley>-ale, Vt., An unincorporated township in Caledonia county, chartered in 1791, containing about 4000 aci-es. IVIoose river passes through it. It is bound- ed on the west by Kirby. Most of the land is on a mountain. It never had more than 21 inhabitants. Braiiitree, Vt. Orange co. This is a good farm- ing town, and produces considerable butter, cheese, beef and pork. It lies 21 miles S. from Montpelier, and 14 W. by S. from Chelsea. Pop- ulation, 1830, 1209. Branches of White river pass through the town. Braiutrce, Mass. Norfolk CO. This town formerly included Quincy and Randolph, and was first called Mount IVollaston. It is celebrated for the antiquity of its settlement, (1625) and for the eminent men it has produced, both in church and state. The surface of the town is variegated by hill and dale, presenting many delight- ful views of Boston, its harbor and the adjacent country. The soil is a strong gravelly loam, and very productive. Excellent granite abounds here, of which large quan- tities are annually quarried and transported ; and some of the best merchant ships are built of native white oak and cedar. The holley tree (Ilex aquifolium) is indigenous. Indications of coal have been so strong as to warrant an attempt at mining. The Manatiquot river. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. whicli rises in Randolph, after meandcrins; throuo;h tills town and receiving tiie waters of Great an;>, and gave employment to S50 persons. The Manatiquot affords this town excellent mill site-s ; some of which lie near sliip navigation, and are very valuable. Braintree was in- corporated in 1640. It lies 10 miles S. by E. from Boston, and 12 S. E. from Dedliam. Population, 1830, l,7.i2; 1837, 2,237. Bi-aniloii, Vt. This is a flourishing town in Rut- land county, 40 miles S. W. from Montpeiier, 16 N. by W. from Rut- land, and 16 S. from Middlebury. It was first settled in 1775, and or- ganized in 1784. Population, 1830, 1,9 iO. Brandon is finely watered by Otter creek, Mill ri\cr, and Spring pond ; on which streams arc good mill scats. Some of the land is level, witli rather a light soil, but that on Otter creek is the best allu- vial. Bog iron ore, of an excellent qualify, is found here ; copperas and marble are also found. There are two curious caverns in this town. The largest contains two apart- ments, each from 16 to 20 feet square. It is entered by descend- ing from the surface about 20 feet. They are formed of limestone. G Brauford, Ct. New Haven co. An uneven township, of strong soil, on Long Island Sound, about 7 miles E. from New Haven. Thimble islands and Indian islands lie within the limits of the town. Here are fish of va- rious kinds, a small stream of wa- ter, a harbor, and some vessels en- gaged in the fishery. The town was settled in 1644. Population, 1830, 2,332. A beautiful pond, called Saltonstall's lake, lies be- tween Branford and East Haven. Brattleborougli, "Vt. Windham co. This town is situ- ated in the southeasterly quarter of the state and county ; is bounded E. by Connecticut river, S. by Ver- non and Guilford, W. by Marlboro', and N. by Dummerston. At the N. E. section of the town is the site of the once famous military post, Foi't Dummer, nothing of which is now retained but the name. Bummer Meadows. At the mouth of Whetstone brook is a commodious landing place for river craft. Brattleborough is connected with Hinsdale and Chesterfield by a handsome covered bridge, span- ning the Connecticut, and terminat- ing at its western abutment in the east village, where the north, tlie south, the east, and the west lines of mail stages concentrate. The town and vicinity are noticed for their salubrious air, pure water, and fine mountain scenery. It is watered on the east by the Connec- ticut, and is intersected by W'est river, WHietstone brook, and nume- rous smaller streams. There are many sites for water power on the larger streams, unoccupied, and in- viting to onterprixe. The east vil- lage is the general business mart for the surrounding towns. Of its own internal business and industry, one instance is given of niany of less amount. '• The Brattleboro' NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Typographic Co." was incorporated Oct. 2(5, 1336. Capital, $150,000. The Company is extensively en- gaged in the manufacture of paper and books. Their paper mill is fur- nished with the best machinery, and is capable of turning out from 40 to 50 reams of the largest print- ing paper, or from 150 to 200 reams of letter paper per day. Their printing office contains eight power presses. There are employed in the establishment from 60 to 70 male and female operatives. So great are their facilities, that they have taken rags and manufactured them into paper, and printed it, on the same day. Probably there is no establishment in the country which combines so many facilities for car- rying on the book business as this. The Company publish a variety of bibles and other valuable works. The value of business done at this establishment, in 1S36, is stated to have amounted to $500,000. It is presumed that this village, according to its size, is second to none in the state for business or wealth. The surface of the town is diversified by hills, vales, and plains ; is of good soil, and gene- rally well improved. It is 12 miles S. E. from Newfane, 96 S. from Montpelier, 90 W. of Boston, and 76 E. N. E. from Albany. Popu- lation, 1820, 2,017—1830, 2,141. Bremen, Me. Lincoln co. This town was for- merly a part of Bristol. It is bound- ed N. by Nobleborough, west b}- Bristol, south by Pemmaquid point in Bristol, and east by Muscongus island in Muscongus bay. It lies about 40 miles S. E. from Augusta, and 15 E. S. E. from Wiscasset, and possesses great navigable privi- leges. Population, 1837, 773. Brentwood, BT. H. Rockingham co. Brentwood is bounded E. by Exeter, N. by Ep- ping, W. by Poplin, and S. by Kingston. The soil is better adapt- ed to grass than grain, although some improvements have been made in its qualities. Exeter river passes nearly through the centre of the town, and there are other streams of less magnitude connect- ing with it. Pick-pocket falls, on Exeter river, are in this town, and near them are situated an exten- sive cotton factory, and a number of mills. A card factory has been established here, which promises to be of great utility ; and also an ii-on furnace for casting machinery. Quantities of iron ore have been found, and it was formerly worked with success. Vitriol, combined in masses with sulphur, has also been found here. Brentwood was incorporated June 26, 1742. Popu- lation, in 1S30, 891. Bi-e^ver, Me. Penobscot co. Brewer lies on the Penobscot river, opposite to the city of Bangor. It was taken from Orington in 1812. Population, in 1837^ 1,622. It is watered by the Sfigeunkedunk,-on which are mills of -various kinds. Considerable quantities of lumber, haj% potatoes, tanners' bark and wood, are annu- ally exported from this town. The town was named in compliment to Col. John Brewer, one of the tirst settlers, from Worcester, Mass. The navigable privileges at this place are equal to those at Bangor. Ei-ovster, Mass. Barnstable co. This town was the Indian Sawkatucket. It was taken from Harwich, in 1830, and took its name from Elder Brewster, one of the first settlers of Ply- mouth ; a man of great learning and piety, who died 1644. In com- mon with all the towns on Cape Cod, a large number of ship-mas- ters, sailing to foreign ports, belong here. From three ponds in this town, covering about 1,000 acres, a 1 never-failing stream of water is pro* NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. duced, on which are a cotton mill, canlinE; mill, machine shop and oili- er small mills. The value of the manufactures of cotton goods, hools, shoes, leather, axes, chairs, cabinet and tin wares, lampblack, Epsom and common salts, amounted, in one year, to $52,072. Product of the cod and mackerel fishery, §!;),050. Brewster lies on the north siile of the Cape, IG miles E. by N. from Barnstable, and G N. N. W. from Chatham. Population, 1837, 1,531. Here are about 1,000 sheep. Bridgeport, Ct. Fairfield co. The town of Bridge- port was formerly a part of Strat- ford, and was incorporated by its present name in 1821. It contains about 10 square miles, of a strong and fertile soil, under excellent cul- tivation. That part of Bridgeport where the city now stands was called the village of Newfield, un- til 1800, when it was incorporated as a boi'ough by its present name. In 1836 it became a city. This is one of those beautiful and flourish- ing places in New England, the pride of Yankees and the admira- tion of strangers. It is located on an elevated plain, on the west side of an arm of Long Island Sound, and commands extended views of Long Island and the surrounding country. The city is built in a style of great neatness and some ele- gance. The harbor is safe, but the navigation for large vessels is im- peded by a bar at its mouth, of about 13 feet draught of water at high tides. A large business is done here in the coasting trade ; some in foreign commerce, and some in the whale and other fish- eries. The city is watered by the Pequanock, affording some water power. There is a commodious bridge across the harbor, 412 yards in length, with a draw for the passage of vessels. This is an im- portant manufacturing city, par- ticularly of saddlery and carriages. of which a very large amount is an- nually made and transported. A rail-road from this place is in con- templation, to pass up the Ilousa- tonick river, and meet the Boston and Albany rail-road at West Stock- bridge, in Mass. The population of the borough of Bridgeport, in 1830, was 1,800. The present pop- ulation of the city exceeds 4,000. Bi'idgeport lies 62 miles N. W. from New York, 17 S. W. fron\ New Haven, and 4 E. by N. from Fairfield. The distance from this place to Setauket, on Long Island, across the Sound, is about IS miles. Bridgetoii, Me., Cumberland co., is pleasantly situated on the border of Long pond, and near the head of navigation to Portland, by the Cumberland and Oxford canal. The distance from this place to Portland, by navigable waters, is about 50 miles. The soil of Bridgeton is good, ad produced in 1837 4,000 bushels of wheat. Its location afTords it great facilities for inland trade. Long pond is about 10 miles in length and 1 in breadth. It empties into Crooked river, which passes into Sebago pond. This town lies 74 miles S. W. by W. from Augusta, and 40 N. W. from Portland, by the road. Population, 1837, 1,863. Bridge^vater, N. H. Grafton co. Originally part of New Chester; now Hill, was incor- porated, 1788. It is bounded N. by Plymouth and Hebron, on the E. by Pemigcwasset river, dividing it from part of Holderness and New Hampton, on the S. by Bristol, and on the W. by Newfound pond, which separates it from Alexandria. The soil is well adapted to graz- ing, and few townships in this vi- cinity exceed it in this respect. The Mayhew turnpike passes through the VV. part, near New- found pond, and the main road from Concord to Plymouth through the NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. E. part near Pemigewasset river. The first settlement was made in 1766, by Thomas Crawford, Esq., when the tract comprised the whole of New Chester, Bridgewater, and Bristol. Population, in 1S30, 783. Bridgewater, Vt. Windsor co. This town is bound- ed E. by Woodstock, and lies 45 miles S. from Montpelier, 17 N. W. from Windsor, and 60 N. E. from Bennington. Population, 1820, 1,125; 1830, 2,320. The settle- ment of the town commenced in 1780. In 1785 the town was or- ganized. There are many good mill seats in this town, on Water- queechy river, and considerable fine intervale lies on the borders of that stream. The high lands are good, and produce valuable crops. It feeds about 6,000 sheep. Here are found iron ore, garnets, rock crystal, mica slate, gneiss, lime- stone, quartz, and excellent soap- stone. In 1822, a living frog was taken from 26 feet below the sur- face of the ground, about 30 rods from the river. Bridgewater, Mass. Plymouth co. This township was formerly very large. It is now divided into four distinct towns. Not content with attaching the car- dinal points of the compass to the names of three divisions of this ancient and respectable town, this remnant of the old territory is often improperly called South Bridgewa- ter. The Indian name of this town- ship was J\'unketcst. Bridgewa- ter contains some very good land, and is well watered by branches of Taunton river. It lies 27 miles S. by E. from Boston, 20 S. S. W. from Plymouth, and 17 S. from Weymouth landing. Population, 1830, 1,855; 1837, 2,092. This town was first settled in 1651, and incorporated in 1656. The settle- ments were nearly all destroyed by the Indians, in 1676. Manufactur- ing operations commenced here at an early period. Hugh Orr, an eminent Scotchman, carried on the manufacture of cannon and small arms during the revolutionary war. The present manufactures consist of boots, shoes, hats, paper, anchors, bar iron (from native ore,) iron castings, nails, tacks, axes, cotton ginns, straw bonnets, &c. The value of these manufactures, in one year, amounted to about ^250,- 000, and gave employment to 400 hands. Bridport, Vt. Addison co. Bridport was first settled in 1768, and organized as a town in 1785. It is bounded on the W. by lake Champlain, and is op- posite to Crown Point, in the state of New York. It is 12 miles W. by S. from Middlebury, 37 S. from Burlington, and 45 S. W. from Montpelier. Population, 1830, 1,774. The surface is nearly level, with a loamy soil and sandstone. The water is bad to the taste, and con- tains Epsom salts. It has a harbor on the lake, and the business of the town is considerable. Across the lake to Crown Point is about 2 miles. A visit to the ruins of this ancient fortress, so renowned in the annals of the revolutionary war, and elevated 47 feet above the level of the lake, is a great treat to the contemplative traveller, or the lover of splendid scenery. From these warlike ruins to those of Ticondero- ga, is 15 miles, S. Brigliton, Me. This town is situated in the county of Somerset and bound- ed by Athens on the S. It was in- corporated in 1816, and is 120 miles N. N. W. from Portland, 50 N. from Augusta, and about 30 W. from Dover. Population, 1837, 798. The same year it produced 5,203 bushels of wheat. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Brigliton, Vt. A town in Essex county. Popula- tion, 1830, 105. See Barnard. Me. Brightou, Mass. Middlesex co. This was former- ly a part of Cambridge, and called " Little Cambridge" until its incor- poration in 1S07. It lies 5 miles S. W. from Boston, 13 S. E. from Concord, 35 E. from Worcester, 8 N. by E. from Dedham, and 13 N. W. by N. from Weymouth landing. Population, 1S30, 972 ; 1837, 1,337. The western and northern bounda- ries of this town are washed by Charles river. The soil is excel- lent and higlily cultivated, and, in common with all the towns in tlie vicinity of Boston, Brighton has be- come the residence of many peo- ple of wealth and taste, who possess beautiful country seats and splen- did gardens. Winship's garden is noted throughout the country for its nursery of fruit-trees and shrub- bery, and for its grand display of plants and flowers of every variety. Brighton is the largest cattle market in New England. Monday is the market day, when sellers and buyers meet in throngs to traffic in live stock, both for slaughter and domes- tic use. The sales in 1830 and 1837 are here given. 1830. ■ .Vo. Value. Beef cattle, 37,767, $977,990. Store do. 13,685, 154,564. Sheep, 132,697, 215,618. Swine, 19,639, 70,971. 203,788, $1,419,143. 1837. ^0. Value. Beef cattle, 32,664, $1,567,872. Store do. 16,210, 486,480. Sheep, 110,206, 275,515. Swine, 17,052, 119,364. 176,132, $2,449,231. BrlmAcld, Mass. Hampden co. This town lies 1!) miles E. by N. from Springfield, 50 W. N. W. from Providence, R. I., and 70 W. by S. from Boston. Pop- ulation, 1837, 1,599. First settled, 1714. Incorporated, 1731. This is a fine farming town, with a good soil, and is well watered by Chick- opee and Quincbaugh rivers. The articles manufactured in this town, in one year, amounted to $105,262. The manufactures consisted of cot- ton goods, boots, shoes, leather, palm-leaf hats, chairs and cabinet ware. The value of wool grown, in one year, was $4,067. Bristol County, 3Ia8S. Taunton and JVew Bedford are the county towns. The surface of this county is somewhat broken, but generally level. Its soil in many parts is of an inferior quality. There are 12,- 468 sheep. Area, 600 square miles. It has a maritime coast of consid- erable extent, and its people are ex- tensively engaged in navigation. The tonnage of the two districts in this county (New Bedford and Dighton) is 94,163 tons. This coun- ty gives rise to many important streams tliat fall into Massachusetts and Narraganset bays, and its wa- ter power is abundant in almost ev- ery town. It abounds in excellent iron ore, and in no section of our country, of its extent, are more ex- tensive manufactures of that mate- rial, for almost all the uses of man. This county is bounded N. by Nor- folk CO., E. by Plymouth co., S. E. by Buzzard's bay, and W. by the counties of Providence, Bristol, and Newport, R. I. In king Phi- lip's time this part of the country was called Pawcunriaivcutt. It was incorporated in l(i85. Popula- tion, in 1820, 40,908 ; 1830, 49,474 ; and in 1837, 58,132 : 97 inhabitants to a square mile. Value of the man- ufactures, for the year ending April 1 , 1837, $7,929,479. Product of the fishery, .$2,188,656. The Taunton and Pawtucket are its chief rivers. NEVV^ ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Bristol County, R. I. Bristol is Uie chief town. The territory of this smallest county in New England, except the county of Suffolk, in jVIassuchusetts, be- longed to the colony of Miissachu- setls until 1746. It is bounded on the N. by Biistol county, Mass., E. by Mount Hope bay, and S. and W. by the upper waters of Narra- ganset bay. Area, 23 square miles. The location of this county, on the beautil'ul waters of Mount Hope and Narraganset bays, affords it un- rivalled facilities for navigation. The soil is genei-ally a deep gravelly loam and very fertile, producing va- rious kinds of grain and fruits ; and has about 4,0i)0 sheep. The rocks are mostly granite. Bristol county affords some of the best scenery in New England, and is otherwise in- teresting as being, for many years, the residence of the brave and cruel Philip. Population, 1830, 5,466: 218 inhabitants to a square mile. Bristol, Me. Lincoln CO. This town is bound- ed N. by Nobleborough and Bre- men, W. by Damariscotta river, S. by the sea, and E. by Muscongus bay. " Bristol Mills," so called, is the centre of the town, or the chief place of business. The town is finely watered by the Damariscotta and Pemmaquid, and possesses great hydraulic power and navigable fa- cilities. There are a number of islands in the waters around Biistol, which make a beautiful appearance; some of them are quite large, and inhabited. The surface of Bristol is not mountainous, but elevated, with a good soil. A number of square rigged vessels belong to this town ; about 20 sail are engaged in the coasting trade, and a great num- ber of smaller vessels are employ- ed in the bank and shore fisheries. Bristol lies 15 miles S. E. from Wis- casset, 60 N. E. from Portland, and 32 S. E. from Augusta. Popula- tion, 1837, 2,788. This town was incorporated in 1763. There was a temporary settlement here as ear- ly as 1625. In an old fort, on the banks of the Pemmaquid, once call- ed William Henry, and afterwards Frederick George, built of stone, in 1692, and taken by the French in 1696, " are found grave stones of a very early date, and streets regu- larly laid out and paved, in the vi- cinity of the fort. On the side of the river, opposite to the fort, tan pits have been discovered, the plank remaining in a state of preserva- tion. In other places coffins have been dug up, which bear indubi- table evidence of a remote antiqui- ty." "A considerable portion of the inhabitants of Bristol are of Irish extraction, a small part of Scotch, a few of German and Eng- lish. The predominant character- istics of the inhabitants are frank- ness and hospitality, a generous lib- erality of sentiment, and an ardent love of liberty and independence. There are few of that class of men who are esteemed opulent. The most wealthy are those who labor daily with their hands, and raise by their own individual exertions the bread they consume. On the other hand, the population of the miser- ably poor is very small, and the town is burthened with but few paupers." Bristol was the resi- dence of Commodore Samuel Tuck- er, distinguished for his bravery in the revolutionary war. Bristol, W. il. Bristol, in the S. E. part of Graf- ton county, is bounded N. by Bridge- water, E. by Pemigewasset river, and W.by Hill. It is 16 miles S.from Plymouth, and 30 N. from Concord. The land is hilly, but has, in gen- eral, a good soil. Newfound pond, about 6 miles in length and from 2 to 3 miles in width, lies in this town and in Hebron. Its waters are discharged through Newfound river, a stream about 2 miles long NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. and 100 feet wide, into Pemigcwas- set river. At the confluence of these rivers is a pleasant villatije, a cotton factory, and a nuniljcr of valu.ilile mill scats. Bri>tol was taken from ni'i(la;ewater and New Chester, and incorporated June 24, 1819. The tirst settlement was made in 1770. Population, in 1830, 799. Bristol, Vt. Addison co. It is 25 miles S. W. from Montpelier, 11 N. from Mid- dlebury, and 25 S. K. from Burling- ton. The town is mountainous; some parts of it, about the " Ilog's Back" and " South Mountain," are unfit for cultivation. On the west side of the mountains is some tine land. About 2,200 sheep are kept here. Bristol is watered by New Haven river, Baldwin and Lewis' creek, and some beautiful natural ponds. Here is a good water pow- er, and some manufictures. Pop- ulation, in 1830, 1,247. Bristol, R. I. This is the chief town of Bristol county ; the Pocanocket of the In- dians. It is delightfully situated on the waters of Narraganset and Mount Hope bays, in lat. 41^ 39' 53" N., Ion. 71° 19' W. It lies 15 miles S. fiom Providence, 15 N. from Newport, and 56 S. S. AV. from Boston. Its navigable advan- tages are unrivalled. The com- merce of this place is not so exten- sive as formerly; still there is con- siderable maritime trade. It has 18 vessels engaged in the whale fisher}', 15 or 20 sail in the mer- chant service, and a lars;e number in the coasting trade. The amount of tonnage in this district in 1837, was 16,627 tons. Much of the cap- ital of this town is employed in man- ufacturing concerns at other places. The town comprises an area of about 12 square miles, including Mount Hope, once the residence of the celebrated king Philip. The soil is a deep, gravelly loam, very fertile and pro feet square at the base, 15 feet square at the top, and 220 feet in height. It is now raised about 60 feet, and will probably be complet- ed in one or two years. The cost of it will be about $100,000. The State Prison. This institu- tion was founded in 1800, and soon after located on a point of hind in this town, near East Cambridge, and which is connected with Canal bridge by a lateral bridge of 1,820 feet in length. After having strug- gled with many and great difficul- ties attendant on the establishment of an institution so entirely new, the state, by the agency of suitable men, have so placed it as to effect all the objects proposed, without any expense to the cominonwealth. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER, Charlestovrn, R. !• Washington co. Charlestown lies on the sea, opposite to Block Island. It has five large ponds, which cov- er an area of 7 square miles. — Charlestown and Conaquetogue ponds are salt water, and Posquis- settjWatchaug and Cochumpaug are fresh water. These waters afford a great variety of fish. Near the sea, the land is arable, but the inte- rior of the town is more fit for the growth of wood. This town con- tains the graves of the remnant of the tribe of tlie once powerful and dreaded Naraganset Indians. They possessed a considerable tract of land in this town, but owing to a dislike to agricultural pursuits, and by intermarriages with the whites and negroes, their race as a distinct people has long since be- come extinct. Charles liver pas- sea through the town, and gives it mill privileges. Charlestown lies about S miles W. S. W. from South Kingston, and 40 S. W. from Provi- dence. Population, 1830, 1,284. Charlotte, Me. Washington co. Incorporated, 18i.j. Population, 1837, «12. About 25 miles N. W. from Machias, and 184 E. by N. from Augusta. Char- lotte contains a pond, the waters of which pass through Dennysville and empty in Cobscook bay. Charlotte, Vt. This is a pleasant town, in Chit- tenden county, on lake Cham- plain, and opposite to Essex, N. Y. In Essex, about 3 miles across the lake, is SjilitJiock, a great nat- ural curiosity. Charlotte lies 49 miles W. of Montpelier, 11 S. of Burlington and 21 N. W. of Mid- dlebury. A part of this town grad- ually slopes toward the lake, and is very productive. Its trade is chiefly with Canada. From the principal village, " The Four Cor- ners," the lake, and the mountains that skirt its borders, present a very romantic appearance. Population, in 1830, 1,702. Cliarltoii, Mass. Worcester co. Charlton was set off from Oxford, 17.54. It lies 53 miles S. W. from Boston, and 12 W. N. W. from Worcester. Pop- ulation, 1837, 2,4G9. There is a cotton mill in this town, and some manufactures of leather and shoes. CliatUam, TS. H., Strafford co., is situated on the E. side of the Wliite Mountains, and adjoining the line which divides this state from Maine. It has Con- way on the S., Bartlett and Jackson on the W., Mount Royse on the N. Chatham was granted to Peter Livius and others, Feb. 7, 1767. There are several ponds in Chat- ham, and some considerable streams. The surface is mountainous and rocky, and can never sustain a great population. Between Chat- ham and Jackson, Carter's moun- tain rises so high as to prevent the opening a road between the two towns ; so that in holding an inter- course with the rest of the county, the inhabitants are obliged to pass through part of the state of Maine. Population, in 1830, 419. CliatUaiu, Mass., Barnstable co., lies on the el- bow of Cape Cod, south side. Pleas- ant bay, inside of Chatham beach, forms a good harbor. Chatham is 20 miles E. from Barnstable, and 32 S. S. E. from Provincetown. Incorporated, 1712. Population, 1837, 2,271. The value of the cod and mackerel fisheries, for the year ending April 1, 1837, was $56,- 100;— value of salt made, $8,220; — value of boots and shoes made, iS!l,500. There are, belonging to this place, about 20 sail of fisher- men and 30 coasters. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Cliatliani, Ct. ^liddlesex co. The township of Chatham embraces Chitham par- ish, (formerly East Middletown,) tlie greater part of Middle Haddam parish, the parish of East Hampton and a ])art o^' the parish of West Chester. It lies 16 miles S. from Hartford, and opposite to Middle- town, from which it was taken in 1767. Population, 1830, 3,646. Chatliam is watered by Salmon and Pine brooks and several ponds. — Job's pond, about 2 miles in cir- cumference, has no outlet. It rises and falls about 1-5 feet. It rises for six or twelve months, and then falls about the same period. It is high- est in the driest season of the year, and lowest when there is most rain. It is from 40 to 60 feet deep. Chat- ham is noted for its valuable quar- ries of freestone. " For forty years past it has been extensively improv- ed, and tlic stone, to the depth of thirty feet from the surface, arc now removed over an area of an acre and a half, back from the river. The stone in this quarry is covered in some places with four or five feet of earth, and in others with four or five feet more of shelly rock. It is not pei-foctly solid, but lies in blocks, eight or ten feet thick, and fifty and sixty feet long. The seams and joints facilitate the process of removing these from tlieir beds ; and when removed, they are reduc- ed by the wedge and chisel to any size or form which is wished. In this quarry thirty hands have been employed for several years, eight months in the year, and from four to six teams. The quantity of stone prepared for market, and sold to the inhabitants of this and the neigh- boring towns, and exported to dis- tant parts of the country, has been very great; and has yielded a hand- some profit. Fifty rods south of this quarry an opening was made about 17S3, now spreading over half an acre. Here the stone is covered with about ten feet of earth. In this opening as many as twelve hands have been sometimes employed. Vessels come to this and the above quarry, and load from the bank. The bed of stone in which these and the smaller open- ings in the neighborhood have been made is immense, and lies at differ- ent depths from the surface in dif- ferent places. It has been discov- ered in sinking wells, for half a mile in northern and southern di- rections, and has been opened at a greater distance eastward. Where- ever found, the stone possesses the same general properties, but varies, like the freestone in Middletown, in the lineness of its texture." Clieliusfortl, Mass. Middlesex CO. On the south side of IMerrimack river, and connect- ed with Dracut by a bridge. — First settled, 1753. Incorporated, 1655. Population, 1837, 1,613. It lies 25 miles N. \V. from Boston, and 4 S. W. from Lowell. Chelms- ford abounds in limestone and gran- ite ; considerable of the latter is transported to Boston by the Mid- dlesex canal, which passes through the town. The manufactures of this town, during the year ending April 1, 1837, amounted to about .f 100,000 ; — principally of glass and iron. Clielsca, Vt. County town of Orange county. First settled, 1785. Chelsea is a township of good land, with a pleas- ant village in the centre. It is wa- tered by the head branches of White river and has a good hydraulic pow- er. Its manufactures consist of cassimere, satinet, leather, iron, &c. Chelsea produces all the various commodities common to the climate, and feeds about 6,000 sheep. It lies 20 miles S. by E. from Montpelier. Population, 1830, 1,958. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Chelsea, Mass. Suffolk CO. This town was for- merly a ward of Boston. Incor- porated, 1738. Population, 1837, 1,659. The centre of the town lies from Boston about 3 miles N. E., across Charles river, and 8 miles E. of Charlestown. The manufac- tures of Chelsea consist of uphol- stery, stone ware, snuff, segars, wood and copper engravings, car- riages, bricks, vessels, salt, boots, shoes, Stc. ; — annual value, about $90,000. The United States Marine Hos- pital in this town, is on a large plot of ground, in a delightful and airy situation, and affords a comfortable retreat for sick and disabled seamen. Point Shirley, extending southeast- erly, forms the northern part of Bos- ton harbor. Winnesimet Ferry, lead- ing from the foot of Hanover street, in Boston, to this town, is probably the oldest establishment of the kind in America. The first grant was given to Thomas Williams, in 1631. The distance across Charles river is about a mile and a half. Neat and commodious steam-boats are con- tinually running across this delight- ful stream, making the Winnesi- met of the Indians the Hoboken of Boston. Clterryfield, Me. Washington co. At the head of tide water, on both sides of Narra- guagus river, with a handsome vil- lage, and considerable trade. Incor- porated, 1815. Population, 1837, 1,000. 116 miles E. by N. from Augusta, and about 35 W. from Machias. Clieshire Cownty, N. H. Chesliire is one of the western counties in this state. Its length is 31 miles : its greatest breadth 26 miles: and its least breadth 15. It is bounded N. by the county of Sullivan, E. by Hillsborough coun- ty, S. by the state of Massachu- setts, and W. by Vermont. This county contains 727 square miles. Throughout the whole extent on the west, it is watered by the Con- necticut, the western bank of which forms the boundary line between New Hampshire and Vermont. Ashuelot river is a considerable stream, and is tributary to Connec- ticut river. It has its source from a pond in Washington, and after re- ceiving two branches in Keene and Swanzey, and several smaller streams in Winchester, empties into Connecticut river at Hinsdale. Spafford's Lake, a beautiful collec- tion of water, of about 8 miles in circumference, is situated in Ches- terfield. There is a pleasant island in the lake, containing about eight acres. The Grand Monadnock, in Dublin and Jaffrey, is the highest mountain, its attitude having been repeatedly found to be more than 3,000 feet above the level of the sea. Bellows' Falls' in Connecti- cut river, at Walpole, have been regarded as one of the greatest nat- ural curiosities iu this county. The earliest settlement in this county was made about the year 1732, at Hinsdale, then a part of Northfield, and under the govern- ment of Massachusetts. The coun- ty was formed March 19, 1771, and it probably received its name from Cheshire, one of the western coun- ties in England. The population of Cheshire county in 171>0, was 19,665, in 1800, 24,288, in 1810, 2 1,673, in 1820, 26,843, in 1830, 27,016. It has 22 towns:— 39 in- habitants to a square mile. Keene, the chief town, is nearly in the centre of the county, and lies in N. lat. 42° 57'. CUesliii-e, Mass. Berkshire CO. Cheshire has ren- dered itself worthy of its name by its production of cheese of fine fla- vor and quality. In 1801, the good people of this place sent a cheese to Mr. Jefferson, weighing about NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. 1200 pounds. The value of wool, the growth of 183(),sol(l for $.5,522. The Hoosack river passes through the town. Altliough a mountain- ous township, the soil has been rendered productive by the industry of the people. It lias some manu- factures of leather and shoes. 125 miles W. N. W. from Boston, and 16 X. by E. from Lenox. Popula- tion, 1837, 924. Incorporated, 1793. Chesliire, Ct. New Haven co. Taken from Wallingford in 1780. It lies 14 miles N. from New Haven, and 25 S. E. from Hartford. Population, 1830, 1,780. The Quinnipiac river and Farmington canal pass througli tlie town. Cheshire has an un- even, but good soil, with a very pleasant village, and an Episcopal academy, 54 by 34 feet ; — a brick building of considerable taste. Ag- riculture is the chief occupation of the inhabitants. Cliester, Me. Penobscot co. Incorporated, 1834. Population, 1337, 323. See Bar- nard, Me. Chester, N. H., Rockingham co., is 17 miles W. S. W. from Exeter, 30 W. S. W. from Portsmouth, 17 N. W. from Haver- hill, and 23 S. E. from Concord. A branch of Exeter river, called "The Branch," flows through the N. E. part of Chester, beside which there is no stream deserving men- tion. Massabcsick pond is the larg- est body of fresh water in the coun- ty, and contains about 1,500 acres. The line between this town and Manchester passes more than 2 miles through the westerly part of this pond. The Indians had a set- tlement of 10 or 12 wigwams on an island in this pond, vestiges of which, it is said, may still be seen. A considerable portion of the town possesses a good soil, and many of the large swells yield in fertility to 8* none in tlie state. There are sever- al large and valuable meadows. In this town are two caves, sometimes visited by strangers. That which was earliest noticed, is situated in j\Iine hill, near the east side of Massabcsick pond. The entrance is about 5 feet high and 2 1-2 wide. The cavern extends into the hill, in a northern direction, about 80 feet, of sutHcient dimensions to admit a person to pass. Its form is very ir- regular, and its height and breadth various, from 2 to 12 feet. The oth- er is in the westerly side of Rattle- snake hill, in the S. W. part of the town, in a ledge of coarse granite, nearly 40 feet high. It has two entrances. The north entrance is about 11 feet high and 4 broad. Native sulphur is found in this town in small quantities, imbedded in tremolite. Granite and gneiss are the prevailing rocks, and handsome specimens of graphic granite are sometimes found. The village in this town is pleasant, and stands chiefly on a long street. It is the principal place of business in this part of the county, and Is situated on an elevated rise, commanding one of the most extensive prospects in New England. From this hill, the ocean, though more than 20 miles distant, may, in a clear day, be distinctly seen. Population, 1830,2,039. Incorporated, 1722. Cliester, Vt. Windsor co. First settled, 1764. Population, 1830, 2,320. Three considerable streams form William's river and give Chester a good water power. The land is uneven, but fertile and productive. This is u very pleasant town, with two hand- some villages, manufactures of va- rious kinds, and about 10,000 sheep. This is a great thoroughfare for trav- ellers from the eastern part of New England to the Hudson river, near Troy, N. Y. The passage over the Green Mountains, from Chester to I Manchester, is considered the best NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. in this part of the state. Chester lies 16 miles S. S. AV. from Wind- sor, 79 S. from Montpelier, and about 30 E. N. E. from Manchester. Chester, Mass. Hampden co. This is a moun- tainous township, but good for graz- ing. In 1837, it had 3,720 sheep ; their wool weighed 10,325 pounds, and sold for $5,818. There are 2 cotton mills in Chester, 3 tanne- ries, and a window blind factory. Total amount of manufactures, in one year, $47,975. Branches of Westfield river pass through the town. Incorporated, 1765. Popu- lation, 1837, 1,290. 115 miles W. by S. from Boston, and 20 N. W. from Springfield. Chesterfield, N. H., Cheshire co., is 11 miles S. W. from Keene, and 65 S. W. from Concord. Few towns on Connec- ticut river have so little intervale land. For the whole six miles that it lies upon the river, the hills ap- proach near the river's side. There is much good upland, well adapted for grazing and the production of Indian corn. The chief articles carried to market are beef, pork, butter and cheese. Cat's Bane brook is a stream of great import- ance, as it furnishes many mill seats. Spafford's lake is a beautiful collec- tion of water, situated about one mile N. from the meeting-house. it contains a surface of about 526 acres. It is fed by springs in its bosom. Its waters are remarkably clear and pure, its bed being a white sand. In this lake there is an isl- and of about six acres, which forms a delightful retreat. On its E. side issues a stream called Partridge's brook, sufficiently large to carry the machinery of a cotton factory, saw-mills, &c. West river moun- tain lies in this town and Hinsdale, It is supposed to have been once subject to a volcanic eruption, and there is at present a considerable quantity of lava near its crater. It is said by those who live near the mountain, that it frequently trem- bles, and a rumbling noise is heard in its bowels. Chesterfield has 3 villages. The principal one, lead- ing from Hartford to Hanover, is sit- uated near the centre of the town, and 3 miles E. from Connecticut riv- er. Here are several dwelling- houses, the meeting-house and a nourishing academy, which was opened Aug. 14, 1794. The first settlement was made Nov. 25, 1761, on the banks of the Connecticut, by Moses Smith and William Thomas, with their families. At that peri- od, the river afforded abundance of shad and salmon, and the forests were well stocked with deer, bears and other game, so that the inhab- itants did not experience those pri- vations so common in new settle- ments. Population, 1830, 2,040. Cliesterfield, Mass. Hampshire co. A township of rough, elevated land, 97 miles W. Irom Boston, and 11 W. N. W. from Northampton ; watered by a branch of Westfield river. It has a good water power, 1 woolen mill, 2 tan- neries, some curious minerals, and a water course, worn very deep through solid rock. Population, 1837, 1,158. There were sheared in Chesterfield, in 1837, 7,100 sheep, producing 20,800 pounds of wool, valued at $12,480. A noble example. Cliesterville, Me. Franklin co. Wilson's stream passes through this town, and emp- ties below the falls of Sandy river. First settled, 1782. Incorporated, 1802. Population, 1837, 1,040.— This is an excellent township of land. It yielded, in 1837, 4,046 bushels of wheat. It lies about 24 miles N. E. from Augusta, and 12 N. E. from Farminsfton. XEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. C'liesiiiicook Lake, Me., In the county of Piscataquis, is a large sheet of water through which the Penobscot river passes. It also receives the Kahkoguamook ami Umbazookskus rivers. This lake is about 25 miles long and 3 miles wide. The country around tliis fine lake is very fertile, and as well adapted to the growing of wool and wheat as any portion of the globe. Its central point is about 1-30 miles W. N. AV. from Augusta. ClUcliester, N. H., Merrimack co., is situated 8 miles E. from Concord. It was granted ]May 20, 1727, to Nathaniel Gookin and otlicrs; but the settlement was not commenced until 175S, when Paul Morrill settled in the woods. The soil is good, and richly repays the cultivator. There is little waste land, nor are there any considerable elevations. The east part of the town is watered by the Suncook river, which affords its mill seats and some productive intervale. — Population, 1S30, 1,084. In vari- ous parts of the town are still to be seen traces of Indian settlements ; and implements of stone, chisels, axes, &c., have frequently been found. The vicinity was once the residence of a powerful tribe, the Penacooks, and their plantations of corn, &c., were made on the banks of the Suncook. ClUckopee River, Mass. This river rises in Spencer, Lei- cester and Paxton, and receives the waters of Quaboag pond, in Brook- field. It passes through Warren. At Palmer it receives the waters of Ware and Swift rivers, and en- ters the Connecticut at the N. part of Springfield, 7 miles S. from South Hadley. Cliilmark, Mass. Dukes CO. This town lies on the S. and W. part of Martha's Vine- yard. Gay Head, in this town, is the south point of the island ; it is 150 feet above the gea, and is crowned with one of the five light- houses in this county. Gay Head is about 60 miles E. N. E. of Montauk, on Long Island, and bears marks of having been subject to volcanic eruptions. The place abounds in specimens of min- erals worthy the notice of geolo- gists. This part of the island is in- habited by some descendants of the native Indians, who own part of the lands. There is some salt manufac- tured at this place, and about 7,000 sheep are kept. Cliilmark was in- corporated in 1714. Population, 1837, 700. It lies 92 miles 8. E. from Boston, 33 W. from Nantucket, 23 S. E. by S. from New Bedford, and 12 S. W. by S. from Edgarton. China, Me. Kennebec co. This is a town- ship of excellent land, which pro- duced, in 1S37, 12,953 bushels of wheat. China is watered by a lake, or " Twelve Mile Pond," a tine miniature of the beautiful Skane- ateles, in the state of New York. At the outlet of this pond, into the Kennebec, are excellent mill priv- ileges. On the bank of the pond is a very flourishing village, a steam saw-mill, and an academy. Avis- it to this place, Albion, Clinton, Dixmont, and the neighboring towns, where wheat is worth a dol- lar and a half a bushel in the barn, is a good specific against the tvest- ern fever. A trip from Boston to China and back again may be per- formed in the same number of hours that it takes to go up either of the canals 100 miles, towards an un- seen country. China lies 20 miles N. E. from Augusta, 48 S. W. from Bangor, and 138 from Boston. Pop- ulation, 1837, 2,641. Chittcncleu County, Vt. Burlington is the chief town. This county is bounded N. by NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Franklin county, E. by Washing- ton county, S. by Addison county, and W. by Cbaniplain lake. Area, 500 square miles. Population, 1820, 16,055; 1830, 21,765. Population to a square mile, about 4 4. A few settlements commenced in this county before the revolution, but they were all abandoned during the war. Incorporated, 1782. Its soil varies frooi rich alluvial meadows to light and sandy plains. The beautiful Champlain washing its western boundary gives it great fa- cilities for trade to New York and Canada. Its agricultural and man- ufacturing products are consider- able. In 1837 there were in this county about 80,000 sheep. La- moille river passes through its N.W. corner, and Onion river pierces its centre. These streams, with sever- al others of smaller size, afford the county a good water power. Cliitteuden, Vt. Rutland co. Most of the lands in this town lie on the Green moun- tains. Some of the branches of White river pass through it. Near the head of the Philadelphia branch, so called, is a mineral spring, said to contain some good qualities. — Manganese of an excellent quality is found here. In 1837 there weie in Chittenden about 700 people, and 3,000 sheep. About 12 miles N. by E. from Rutland, and 40 N. by E. from Montpelier. Clareniout, N. H., Sullivan co., is 12 miles N. from Charlestown, 8 W. from Newport, 47 N. N. W. from Concord, and 97 W. N. W. from Portsmouth. This town is watered by Connecticut and Sugar rivers, besides numerous brooks and rivulets. Claremont is a fine undulating tract of territory, covered with a rich gravelly loam, converted into the best meadows and pastures. The hills are sloping acclivities, crowned with elegant summits. The intervales on the rivers are rich and luxuriant. The agricultural products are large and valuable. The houses and build- ings present a very favorable ap- pearance, and indicate the wealth and prosperity of the town. In this town are a number of manufacto- ries of cloth, paper, leather, &c. Claremont was granted in 1764. — In this town are fine beds of iron ore and limestone. It received its name from the country seat of Lord Clive, an English general. The first settlement was made in 1762, by Moses Spaffbrd and David Lynde. Many eminent men have resided in this town. The Hon. Ca- leb Ellis came to reside in Clare- mont about 1800. In 1804, he was chosen a member of congress from this state ; in 1809 and 1810, a mem- ber of the executive council : in 1812, an elector of president and vice-president of the U. S. In 1813, he was appointed judge of the su- perior court, in which office he re- mained till his death, May 9, 1816, aged 49. Population, 1830, 2,526,. Clarenileii, "Vt. Rutland co. Otter creek. Mill and Cold rivers and several brooks give this town good mill privileges. Here are good marble, a mineral spring, and a cuiious cave. The soil is a gravelly loam, with con- siderable alluvial meadow along its streams. There are some manu- facturing establishments in Claren- den, and about 13,000 sheep. Pop- ulation, 1830, 1,585. It lies 55 miles S. from Montpelier, and 7 S. from Rutland. Clarksljurgli, Mass. Berkshire co. A branch of Hoo- sick river passes through this moun- tainous township. It lies 125 miles W. by N. from Boston, and 27 N. by E. from Lenox. Incorpora- ted, 1798. Population, 1837, 386. Clarksburgh has a small cotton mill, 5 saw mills, and 255 sheep. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ClarkSTUle, ]V. H. This (own was incorporated in 1S32. It liatl before that time borne the name of the First College Grant. It was granted to the trus- tees of Dartmouth College, Feb. 5, 1789. It contains 40, !»()() acres, and is situated on Connecticut river, in Coos county, N. of Stewartstown. Its population, in 1830, was 88. Clinton, Me, Kennebec co. This fine town- ship is bounded on the E. by Ken- nebec river. The Sebasticook pass- es through the town, and, at the falls on that river, affords it a great hydraulic power. It has a neat and pleasant village on the bank of the Sebasticook, some manufactures, and large agricultural products. In 1837 this town produced a consid- erable quantity of wool, and 10,807 bushels of wheat. Incorporated, 1795. Population, 1837, 2,()42. Clinton lies 24 miles N. by E. from Augusta, and about 12 S. by E. from Skowhegan. Cobbessecontee AVaters, Me. The pond is a tine sheet of wa- ter, lying W. of Hallowcll, and connected with smaller ponds in Monmouth, Winthrop, Rcadtield, and Mount Vernon. The outlet of the pond is a river of the same name, which passes into a beauti- ful pond we see on the stage road in Richmond, and empties into the Kennebec at Gardiner. These wa- ters afford a great hydraulic power, an abundance of hsh, and much de- lightful scenery. Cobscook Fay, Me. A large bay, the recipient of a number of large ponds, on the S. W. side of Eastport, in Passama- quoddy bay. See Eastport. Cotl, Cape und Bay. Having briefly described this cape, under Barnstable county, we have only to add that Cape Cod light is in N. lat. 42° 2' 22" ; W. Ion. 70° 4' 22". Cape Cod bay is in Massadiu- setts bay, and is formed by the half extended arm of the cape. See Barnstable county. Cohassct, Mass. Norfolk CO. A town on Massa- chusetts bay, noted for its rocky coast and numerous shipwrecks. 6 miles E. from Hingham, 20 E. by S. from Dedham, and about 16 S. E. from Boston, by water. Incor- porated, 1770. Population, 1S37, 1,331. This place has about 40 sail of merchant, coasting' and fishing vessels, and a large tide-water pow- er. Cohasset has become a great resort for citizens and strangers, in summer months, to enjoy the ma- rine scenery, exhilarating air, and all those pleasures for which .A'o- hant is celebrated. The value of the fisheries, for the year ending April 1, 1837, was $7"5,.536. The value of salt, vessels, boots, shoes, and wooden ware manufactured, was §!3.'),920. CoIcUester, Vt., Chittenden CO., is pleasantly sit- uated at the head of a bay on the E. side of lake Cliamplain, 36 miles N. W. from Montpelier, and 6 N. from Burlington. This town is well watered by Onion liver, and some smaller streams. Colchester has some good and some poor land, some trade on the lake, and about 4,000 sheep. First settled by Gen. Ira Allen, in 1774. Population, 1S30, 1,489. Colcliestcr, Ct. New London co. This is a plea- sant town; the site of Bacon acad- emy. It lies 20 nules N. W. from New London, and 23 S. E. from Hartford. First settled, 1701. Pop- ulation, 1S30, 2,068. The surface of the town is uneven, with a stron;< NEW EXtiLAND GAZETTEER. gravelly soil. Excellent iron ore is found here. Rev. John Bulhley, a gramlson of president Chauncy, was the first settled minister in this place. Mr. Bulkley was a very distinguished scholar. He died in 1731. He published a curious treatise, in which he contended that the In- dians had no just claims to any lands but such as they had subdued and improved by their own labor. The following story is told in an old book. " The Rev. Mr. Bulkley of Col- chester, Conn., was famous in his day as a casuist and sage counsel- lor. A church in his neighborhood had fallen into unhappy divisions and contentions, which they were unable to adjust among themselves. They deputed one of their number to the venerable Bulkley, for his services, with a request that he would send it to them in writing. The matters were taken into serious consideration, and the advice, with much deliberation, committed to writing. It so happened, that Mr. Bulkley had a farm in an extreme part of the town, upon which he entrusted a tenant. In superscrib- ing the two letters, the one for the church was directed to the tenant, and the one for the tenant to the church. The church was conven- ed to hear the advice which was to settle all their disputes. The mod- erator read as follows : You trill see to the repair of the fences, that they be built high and strong, and you tinll take special care of the old black bull. This mystical advice puzzled the church at first, but an interpreter among the more dis- cerning ones was soon found, who said, Brethren, this is the very ad- vice we most need ; the directions to repair the fences is to admonish us to take good heed in the admis- sion and government of our mem- bers : we must guard the church by our Master's laws, and keej) out strange cattle from the fold. And we must in a particular manner set a watchful guard over the Devil, the old black bull, who has done so much hurt of late. All perceived the wisdom and fitness of Mr. Bulk- ley's advice, and lesolved to be gov- erned by it. The consequence was, all the animosities subsided, and harmony was restored to the long alilicted church." Colel>rook, N. H., Coos CO., on Connecticut river, about 35 miles N. of Lancaster. It is watered by the Mohawk river and Beaver brook. The soil here is rich, and capable of culture. In- tervales of good quality stretch along the Connecticut. Colebrook v.'as originally granted to Sir George Colebrook and others, and was in- corporated Dec. 1, 1790. There is an academy in this town, incorpo- rated in 1833. Population, 1330, 512. Colebrook, Ct. Litchfield co. An elevated town- ship of a hard gravelly soil and un- even surface, on the line of Mas- sachusetts ; 31 miles N. W. from Hartford, and 18 N. E. from Litch- field. The eastern part of the town is watered by Farmington river. Here are a number of good mill seats, and a manufactory of broad- cloth. The village is very plea- sant, having Mount Pisgah in the rear. First settled, 1765. Popu- lation, 1830, 1,332. Coleraiiie, Mass. Franklin co. This town was first settled by a colony from the north of Ireland, about the j'ear 1736. It lies 105 miles N. W. from Boston, and 9 N. W. from Greenfield. It is watered by a branch of Deerfield river, which produces a water pow- er for 3 cotton mills and several other manufactories. The manu- factures consist of cotton goods, iron castings, leathei-, hats, chairs, cab- inet ware, ploughs, spades, shovels, forks, and hoes ; total value, in one NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. year, $91,000. This is a fine graz- ing township, and produced, in 1837, 16, 12."? pounds of wool, valu- ed at $9,133, the fleeces of 5,754 sheep. Population, 1837, 1,998. Colleges in Jiew Euglaud. 8ec Register. Coliiniltia, Me. Washington co. At the head of tide water, on the W. side of Plea- sant river. It is a very large town- ship, well provided with mill seats, and was settled soon after the rev- olutionary war. It lies 15 miles W. from Machias, and 120 E. by N. from Augusta. Columbia has con- siderable trade, particularly in lum- ber. Population, 1837, 793. Columbia, N. II., In tlie county of Coos, lies on the E. bank of Connecticut livcr, 30 miles N. of Lancaster, and 147 N. of Concord. The surface of the town is quite uneven, the moun- tains of Stiatford lying along the S. From these a number of streams descend north-westerly into the Connecticut, furnishing many line mill seats. Thei-e are also several small ponds in town. On the bor- ders of one, called Lime pond, vast quantities of shells are found, from which a species of lime is made that answers for some uses. It was incorporated 1797. Population, 1830, 442. Columliia, Ct. Tolland co. Taken from Leba- non, in 1800. It is 22 miles E. from Hartford, and about 14 S. by E. from Tolland. Population, 1830, 962. Columbia is watered by a branch of the Willimantic, and has a satinet factory, and other ope- rations by water. The surface is uneven ; the soil hard and gravelly, but excellent for grazing. In this place, about the year 1741, the Rev. Dr. Eleazar Whcelock, the first president of Dartmouth College, opened a school for the instruction of Indian youth. He removed his family and pupils to Hanover, N. H., in the autumn of 1770. The snow was very deep, and Hanover was a wilderness. " Sometimes standing in the open air, at the head of his numerous fami-ly. Dr. Whce- lock i)resentcd to God their morn- ing and evening piayers : the sur- rounding forests, for the first time, reverberated the solemn sounds of supplication and praise." This good man died in 1779, aged 69. Concord, Me. Somerset co. Incorporated in 1821. Population, 1837, 524. Con- cord lies on the W. side of Kenne- bec river, 55 miles N. from Augus- ta, and about 20 N. from Norridge- wock. This is a good township, and produced, in 1837, 3,121 bush- els of wheat. Concord, K. II., The capitolof the state, and shire town of the county of Merrimack. It lies on both sides of the Merri- mack river, in N. lat. 43° 12' 29", and W. Ion. 71° 29'; and is 146 miles S. W. fi-om Augusta, Me. ; 97 S. E. from INIontpelier, Vt.; 153 N. E. from Albanv, N. Y. ; 65 N. N. W. from Boston, Mass. ; 103 N. from Providence, R. I. ; 139 N. N. E. from Hartford, Conn., and 474 N. K. by E. from Washington. There are five ponds in Concord, the largest of which are Turkey-, in the S. W., and Long pond in the N. W. parts of the town, on tlie streams passing from which are some valuable mills and privileges. The Contoocook river enters the W. corner of the town, and uniting with the Merrimack on the N. W. line, forms at its junction the cel- ebrated Dustoyi's Island. On the borders of the Merrimack, which is the principal river of this region, are rich intervale lan. 54 miles S. W. from Augusta, and 10 N. from Portland. Cumberland is pleasantly situated on Casco bay, and enjoys many navigable facili- ties. Cumberland, R. I. Providence co. The manufac- ture of cotton and boat building is e.\tensively pursued in this town. Pawtucket, Mill and Peter's rivers, and Abbot's run, afford the town a good hydraulic power. There is Rome good laud in Cumberland, proana, Mass. Worcester CO. Dana lies 65 miles W. from Boston, and 27 W. N. W. from A^'orcester. A branch of Swift river passes through the town. — Some leather is tanned in Dana ; and 70,000 palm-leaf hats were made in 1S3G, valued at $10,500. Incorporated, 1781. Population, 1837, 660. Daiiljiiry, IV. H., Is in the S. part of Grafton county, and lies in the form of a diamond. It is 16 miles S. by W. from Ply- mouth, and 30 N. W. from Concord. This town is generally hilly, al- though there are some intervales. In the N. E. part is a large hill. The eastern section is watered by Smith's river. The first settle- ment was made in Nov. 1771, and incorporated June 18, 1795. Pop- ulation, 1S30, 786. DanlJiiry, Ct. One of the shire towns of Fair- field county. Danbury, the Pnh- qitioquc of the Indians, was first settled in 1684. The soil of the town is good, and agreeably diver- sified by hills and valleys. The borough or village is very pleasant- ly situated in a valley, and is me- morable for its sacrifices in the revolutionary war. It was nearly destroyed by the British, w^ilh a large amount of continental stores, April, 1777. It lies 22 miles N. from Norwalk, 36 S. S. W. from Litchfield, and 55 S. V,'. by W. from Hartford. Robert Saxdemax, the foun- der of a religious sect,died at Danbu- ry in 1771, aged 53. See Bethel, Ct. Daiiliy, Vt. Rutland co. Situated near the head waters of Otter creek, 17 miles S. from Rutland, and 68 S. S. W. from Montpelier. First settled, 1768. Population, 1830, 1,362.— The surface of the town is rough XEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. and mounlainous, but productive of extraordiriai-y feed for cattle. Some of the best dairies in the country are in Dauby. Large quan- tities of butter and cheese, of supe- rior quality, arc annually sent to market. There are some curious caverns in this town, — one of great depth. Dauvcrs, 2»Iass. Essex CO. This flourishing town lies 2 miles N. \V. from Salem, to which it was attached until 1757, and called " Salem Village." It is very pleasant, and has some mill and navigable privileges. The manu- factures, for the year ending April 1, 1S37, amounted to $S54,300. The articles manufactured were boots and shoes (.-5435,900,) leather, ($264,400,) nails, bricks, pottery ware, glue, lasts, morocco, choco- late, shoe pegs, shoe and soap ho^es, soap and candles. Population, IbOO, 4,228 ; 1837, 4,S04. Danville, Me. Cumberland co. This town, for- merly called Pejcpsco, was set off from the westei-ly part of North Yarmoutli, in 1^02. Population, 1837, 1,282. It lies 32 miles S. W. from Augusta, and 29 N. from Port- land. Farming is the principal business of the inhabitants ; — they raised, in 1837, 1,218 bushels of wheat. DauvUle, IV. II. Kockinsham co. It was incorpo- rated February 22, 1760 ; formerly a part of Kingston, and until re- cently known by the name of Hawke. The soil is uneven, but in some parts good. Acchusnut river passes over the north west corner. Long pond lies in the cast part, and Cub pond on tlie west side. The first settlements were made by Jon- athan Sanborn, Jacob Hook, and others, between 1735 and 1739. Danville lies 33 miles S. E. of Con- cord, and 10 S. W. of Exeter. Pop- ulation, 1830, 528. Danville, Vt. Chief town of Caledonia county. Danville village is very pleasantly situated near the centre of the town, and is surrounded by a beautiful farming country : first settled, 1784. Charles Hacket brought the first woman into town, in 1785. Popu- lation, 1830, 2,(>31. It lies 25 miles N. E. from RIontpelier. Here is a medicinal spring ; and Jo's pond, covering 1,000 acres, lies mostly in the town. Several tributaries of the Passumpsic give the town a good water power. This is a place of considerable manufactures and do- mestic trade. Darien, Ct> Fairlield co. Until 1820, Darien was a parish in the town of Stam- ford. The soil is excellent, and well adapted to tillage and grazing. It lies 5 miles W. from Norwalk, and 42 S. W. from New Haven. Pop- ulation, 1830, 1,201. During divine service, on Sun- day, 22d of July, 1781, a party of British troops surrounded the meet- ing house at this place, and made the whole congregation prisoners. The males were tied, two and two, and the Kev. Moses Mather, D. D., a man distinguished for his learning and piety, placed at their head. They were marched to the shore, taken to Long Island, and after- wards to New York, where they suffered a cruel imprisonment. — Some of Ihem never returned. irartmoutli, Mass. Biistol CO. The .Iponigansct oi the Indians. A sea-port on Buz- zard's bay, on the W. side of Ac- cushnet river, 5t! miles S. from Bos- ton, and 3 W. from New Bedford. Incorporated, ICGl. Population, 1837, 3,958. There are 5 vessels belonging to this place engaged in NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the whaling business, and a num- ber in coasting, and other fisheries. The product of the whale, cod and mackerel fisheries the year end- ino; April 1, 1837, amounted to ^93,10S. The value of wool orown was $2,110. The value of salt manufactured, of vessels built, of leather tanned, and of boots and shoes made, was $27,910. Dead. Rivers. Dead river, in Maine, is an im- portant tributary to the Kennebec. It rises on the border of Lower Canada, in the county of Franklin. It passes in a S. E. direction 40 or 50 miles; then N. about 10 ; it then changes to the E., and aftei' passing about 15 miles it falls into the Ken- nebec, about 20 miles below Moose Head lake. The lands on Dead river and its numerous tiibutaries are very fertile and heavily wooded. Dead Stream, in Maine, is a con- siderable tributary to the Penob- scot, from the west. It empties at Orono, opposite to the Indian vil- lage. Dead river, in New Hampshire, fises in the N. AV. corner of the state, in Coos county, and after re- ceiving several tributaries it falls into the Margallaway. Deanfield, Me. Located at the N. W. corner of Hancock county between Pas- sad omkeag river and 01 amnion stream. See Barnard, Me. Rearljorii, Mc. Kennebec co. Tho soil of this town is excellent, particularly 3,round Great pond, which covers fi. large portion of the surface, and has a number of islands of great beauty. This pond is connected with other large sheets of water in Belgrade, Mount Vernon, and Rome, which render this part of the county highly picturesque. Dearborn was incorporated in 1812. Population, 1S37, 799. 15 miles N. from Augusta. Dctiliam, Me. Hancock co. Incorporated, 1837. It is bounded on the W. by Ells- woi-th. Union river passes through its N. W. corner. In 1837 it had a population of 427, and produced 1,550 bushels of wheat. Dcdliam, Mass. Norfolk CO. County town. This town is on Charles liver, with a good watei- power. It is 10 miles S. W. from Bo-:lon, 35 E. from Worcester, 35 N. Vv'. from Plymouth, 20 N. by W. from Taunton, and 30 N. E. from Providence. It has a beauti- ful court house of hewn granite. Its Indian name was Tiot. A rail- road from the centre of the town meets the Boston and Providence rail-road, about two miles at the eastward. The manufactures of Dedham the year ending April 1, 1837, amounted to ^510,755. They consisted of cotton and woolen goods, leather, boots, shoes, paper, mar- bled papar, iron castings, chairs, cabinet wares, straw bonnets, palm- leaf hats, and silk goods. The val- ue of silk goods manufactured was j4^10,000. Dedham village is very pleasant, and possesses every in- ducement to render it a desirable residence for the mechanic or man of leisure. Population, 1837,3,532. Deerfield, K. H., Rockingham co., is IS miles E. S. E. from Concord, and 30 W. by N. from Portsmouth. This town has a number of very pleasant ponds which atlbrd fish of various kinds. Moultou's pond is situated at the W. part of the town. This pond, although small, is noted on account of its having no visible inlet, and therefore is supposed to be supplied by a subterraneous passage, as the water is always of nearly an equal depth. The outlets of the pond run NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. in opposite directions. This pond is also remarkable on account of having been often sounded with- out discovering any bottom. A branch of Lamprey river passes S. and S. E. tlirougli Deerficld. The surface of tliis town is uneven, the soil durable and fertile, altliough hard to cultivate. The Tuckaway, between Deertield and Notting- liam.lhe Saddleback, between Deer- field and Nortlnvood, and Fort mountain on the W., are the piin- cipal elevations. In the W. part of this town, on the southerly side of a ridge of rocks which extend 3-4 of a mile, is a natural formation in the rock, for sixty years desig- nated as the " Indian Camp." Its sides are irregular, and the top is covered by a canopy of granite projecting about 14 feet, attbrding a shelter from the snn and rain. On the E. side of this camp is a natural flight of steps, or stones resembling steps, by which per- sons may easily ascend to the top of the rock. Deertield was once a place of favorite resort for deer, great numbers of wliich were tak- en. While the petition lor the town was pending, a Mr. Batchcl- dcr killed a deer, and presenting it to Gov. Wentworth, obtained the act under the name of Devr-ficld. The town was settled in 1756 and 1758, by John Robertson, Benja- min Hatclielder and others. Dur- ing the Indian wars the inhabitants lived in gari'isons, but no sei-ious mischiefs were experienced. Pop- ulation, 1830, 2,0!5(). Dccrfleld, Mass. Franklin co. At the junction of Connecticut and Deertield rivers, on the west side of the former, and on both sides of the latter. The Pocumtuck of the Indians. It is 95 miles W. by N. from Boston, 4 S. from Greenfield, and 17 N. from Northampton. First settled, 16(j8. Incorpoiated, 16S2. Population, in 1837, 1,952. A very pleasant town, 10* and a place of considerable com- merce. The manufactures of this place, for one year, amounted to $117,190. They consisted of leath- er, boots, shoes, cutlery, ($100,000) chairs, cabinet ware, palm-leaf hats, lead pipe, hair cloth and beds, wag- ons and carriages, pocket books, wallets, and corn-brooms. The val- ue of wool grown, the same year, (1S3()) was $2,708. From the mountains in this vicinity, delight- ful views are obtained. Deerfield Mountain is 700 feet above the plain. Sugar Loaf JiTountain rears its conical peak of red sandstone 500 feet above the river, and overlooks the ground of many sanguinary battles between the whites and In- dians. This is a place of great in- terest. While the traveller lingers here, enjoying the beautiful scene- ry, and hospitality of the people of this cjuiet town, he cannot fail of contrasting the present scenes with those of former years ; particularly with that at Bloody Brook, in 1675, when a company of 90 young men from the county of Essex were slain by ruthless savages. A monument, commemorating this event, was erected in 1838. Deerfield River. This beautiful and important In- dian stream joins the Connecti- cut between Greenfield and Deer- tield. It rises in the high grounds of Windham county, near Strata ton, Dover and Somerset, Ver- mont ; and proceeding in a S. E. course, it passes through Monroe, Florida, Rowe, Charlemont, Haw- ley, Buckland, Shelburne and Con- way. The most important tributa- ries to this stream are Void liver ; a river from Heath and Coleraine; one from Leyden, via Greenfield, and a river from Conway. Its whole length is about 50 miles. In some places Deerfield river is rapid, and its banks very precipitous. Its pas- sage through the mountains is very curious and romantic. NEW ENCLAfCD GAZETTEER, Deering, K. II., Hillsborough co., 23 inilcsS. W. fi-om Concord, and 22 N. W. from Amherst. It is diversified with hills and valleys; is well watered, and its soil is favorable to the seve- ral purposes of agriculture. There are three ponds, Duilley, Pecker's, and Fulton's. The two former are sources of the N. branch of Pi-cat- aquog river. There are some man- ufactures in this town, and bricks are made in a consideraiile quanti- ty. Deering was incorporated Jan. 17, 1774. The name was given by Gov. .John Wentvvortb, in honor of his wife, whose maiden name was Bering. The first permanent set- tlement was made in 176i>,byAlcx- ander Robinson. Population, 1830, 1,227. Beer Isle, Me. Hancock co. This town is con- stituted of three principal Islands — Deer Island,, Little Deer Island, and the Isle of Haut. They com- prise about 17,000 acres, and were inhabited before the revolutionary war. Incorporated, 1789. Popu- lation, 18.37, 2,473. The principal island lies about 2 miles S. Vv\ from Sedgewick harbor, and 95 miles E. by S. from Augusta. These islands have good harbors, and are well lo- cated for the shore fishery. Al- though they are situated near the sea they produce good crops and wheat. Deer Islands, N. H. In Connecticut river, between Lyman and Barnet, Vt., are live in number. S8 acres. The largest contains Dejimark, Ble. Oxford CO. Incorporated, 1S07. Population, 1837, 1,082. It lies S5 miles S. W. by W. from Augusta, about 28 S. W. from Paris, and 47 N. W. from Portland. Denmark is finely watered by Saco river and several beautiful ponds. The prin- cipal business of the inhabitants is agricultural, for which they have a fertile soil, and which produced, in 1S37, 2,5G0 bushels of wheat. I>eniiis, Mass. Barnstable co. This town crosses the cape, and was taken from Yar- moulii in 17S3. Population, 1837, 2,750. It lies 8 miles E. by N. from Barnstable, and 7 "VV. from Harwich. The first salt produced by solar evaporation in this country was made in this town, by John Sears and others, in 1776. About 7,000 tons of shipping belong to this town, principally engaged in fish- ing and coasting, and all manned by natives of the town. Bass river, riiing from a pond, affords a small water power. 150 ship-masters be- long to this town, sailing from va- rious ports in the Union. The pro- ducts of the cod and mackerel fish- ing, in one j'ear, amounted to $50,- 899. The manufacture of com- mon salt, Epsom salts, vessels, and lampblack, amounted to $25,975. DeiiMysville, Me. Washington co. This town is bounded on the S. by Cobscook baj', and watered by a river of the same name. It lies 172 miles E. N. E. from Augusta, and 22 N. W. from Machias. Population. 1887, 349. Derby, Vt. Orleans co. First settled, 1795. It is bounded on the N. by Lower Canada, and on the W. by Mem- phremagog lake. Clyde river, the outlet of Salem pond, affords it a good water power. This town is very pleasant, level and fertile ; — it has some manufactures ; — the farmers are industrious and rear a large number of sheep. Derby is 50 "miles N. N. E. from Montpe- lier, and 15 N. N.E. from Irasburgh. Population, 1830, 1,469. NKVV ENGLAND GAZETTEEU. Derby, Ct. New Havon co. The Indian nrme of thi-! town was Paugasset. It was purchased of Ihe Indians, and incorpoi-ated in U)75. The sur- face of the town is uneven, with some fertile meadow on tlie hanks of the rivers. Derhj' is watered hy the Housatonie'v and Naup;atuck rivers. Derby Landins^, Smitliviile and riumphreysville, arc the principal places of business. The Landing is on the cast side of the Housatoniek, just below the junction of that river witli tiie Naugatuclc, and is 8 miles N. V/. from New Haven, and 14 from Ihe mouth of the river at Stratford, on Long Island Sound. Vessels of 10 feet draught of water can pass to the Landing, from which wood and other commodities are transported by water. Smithville is located in view of the Landing, and commands a beau- tiful pro-pcet. It has extensive manufactures of copper, in sheets and wire, augurs, carriage springs and axlctrees, nails and tacks, flan- nels, satinets, and other operations by the waters of the Naugatuck, passing through a c.inal of about a mile in length. This village was commenced in IS31, and is very flourishing. Humph reysville is located in a small valley, on the Naugatuck river, about 4 miles from the Land- ing. The Humphreysville Manu- facturing Company was incorpora- ted in 1810. The building is 4 sto- ries high and 100 feet long. In this village and around it is some of the most beautiful and romantic scene- ry in New England. This village derived its name from the Hon. David Humphreys, a native of Derby, a poet, an aid to Washing- ton, and a minister to Spain. He died at New Haven, February 21, 1818, aged 7, 1,453. 40 miles S. from Boston, 8 S. from Taunton, and 20 N. W. by W. from New Bedford. There are in this place three cotton factories, a woolen mill, a furnace, and other iron works. Tonnage of the dis- trict, 9,032 tons. The noted " Digh- ton Rock," so called, on which are inscriptions difficult to decypher, in fact lies on the Beikley .''ide of the river. The value of cotton and woolen goods, boots and shoes, pig iron and wooden ware manu- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. factured, and vessels built in Digh- ton, in one year, was $30,000, Dixfield, Me. Oxford CO. This is a good farming town on the north bank of tlie An- droscoggin river, 42 miles N. W. by W. from Augusta, and 25 N. by E. from Paris. Incorporated, 1S0;>. Population, 1837, 1,148. In 1837, 5,522 bushels of wlieat was raised in Dixiield. Dixniout, Mc. Penobscot co. This town deriv- ed its name from Dr. Elijah Dix, late of Boston, one of the original proprietors, and from a hill or moun- tain in the town, beautifully wood- ed to its summit. It is on the height of land between the Kennebec and Penobscot. The surface of the town is undulating; the soil excel- lent and of easy cultivation. It an- nually produces large quantities of hay, .some corn, rye and wool. — In 1837, a bounty of $649 40 was obtained for raising 932 1-2 bushels of wheat. There is a pond in the town and some mill privileges. Dixmont lies 44 miles N. £. from Augusta, and 24 S. W. from Ban- gor. Incorporated, 1807. Popu- lation, 1830, 1,323. DixvUle, N. H., Coos CO., was granted in 1805, to the late Col. Timothy Dix, jr., of Boscawen. It comprises 31,023 acres of uneven land. Nu- merous streams meander through this town from the surrounding heights. Dixville lies about 40 miles N. N. E. from Lancaster. In 1810 it had a population of 12 ; and in 1830, of only 2. Dorchester, IV. I!., Grafton co., is situated on the highlands between Ccninccticut and Merrimack rivers, 12 miles from the former, and 8 from the latter. It is 23 miles S. by E. from Haverhill, 50 N. W. from Concord, and 90 N. W. by W. from Portsmouth. The principal streams are the S. branch of Baker's river, a branch of Mascomy, and Rocky branch. There are two considera- ble ponds, both in the W. part of the town. The soil in same parts is very fertile; particularly the in- tervales on the branch of Baker's river. The highlands are very un- even, and the greater part rocky. First settled about the year 1772. Population, 1830, 702. Dorcliester, Slass. Noifolk CO. This ancient and respectable town lies on Dorches- ter bay, in Boston harbor, 5 miles S. from Boston, and 7 N. E. from Ded- ham. Population, 1837, 4,564. It was first settled by a party of Puri- tans from England. These pilgrims landed fiom the ship Mai-y and John, at Nantasket, on the llth of June, 1630, and on the 17lh day of that month they located themselves at the Indian Mattapan, and called it Dorchester, in honor of their pi- ous and learned fiiend, the Rev. John White, of Dorchester, 120 miles W. fiom London. The town was incorporated on the 7th of September following, and included most of the territory of the towns of Milton, Canton, Stoughton, Sha- lon, and that part of Boston on which stand " Dorchester Heights," me- morable for their sudden conversion into a fortress, for the protection of l?oston harbor, by order of Wash- ington, on the night of March 4, 1776. These lands were obtained fiom the Indians by puixhase, not by combat. The present limits of the town are about 6 by 3 1-2 miles. Dorchester furnished pio- neers for tiie settlement of many parts of the country. A party from this town crossed the trackless wil- derness in 14 days, and settled Hart- ford, on Connecticut river, in 1635. In 1695, another party emigrated from this place, and settled Dor- chester, in South Carolina, and af- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. terwards Mcdway, in Georgia. The soil of Dorcliestor is rocky, but ve- ry fertile and under a iii;.h state of cultivation. It is eseeci.ingly pro- ductive, particularly of vegetables, fruits and flowers. Its surface is greatly variegated, presenting a continual succession of picturesque and delightful views of the coun- try, city, and sea. Its hill-tops and valleys arc decked with fai-m hou- ses and tasteful villas, and no where can be found the union of town and country enjoyments more complete. The beautiful Neponset washes the whole of the southern border of the town, and besides its navigable privileges, aObrds it a laige and val- uable water power. The first wa- ter mill in America was erected in this town, in 16.}:i; and here, about the same time, the cod lishery, the boast of New England, was tirst commenced. There are now 4 ves- sels employed in the whale, and 16 in the cod and other fisheries. To- tal tonnage, 2,210 tons. Capital invested," $190,000. Product, in one year, $138,349. The manu- factures of Dorchester consist of cotton goods, boots, shoes, hats, pa- per, cabinet ware, block tin, tin ware, leather, wearing apparel, Boap, candles, chocolate, and play- ing cards ; the aggregate amount of which, in one year, was $457,400. The first settlers of Dorchester came aregularlj' orijanized church, with its pastor and officers. They Boon erected a liouse of public wor- ship ; but it is a singular fact that " none can tell the precise spot where the first meeting-house was located, nor does a single stone re- main to designate the site of the original burying ground." There are, however, some mementos of olden times. The earliest date in the present ancient cemetery that can be distinctly traced, is 1(;44. We copy the following from among ma- ny singular effusions, found on the grave-stones in that cemetery, in commemoration of the dead. i "Here lies our Captain and M;ijor of SutToik was withal, A (jO(ily Magistrate was he and Ma- jor (ieueral, Two troops of horse with him here canio.siuh worth his love did crave. Ten conijiaiiios of foot also, mournini; marrhcd to !iis crave. Let all that read be sure to keep the faith as he lias done ; Witii Christ he lives now crowned, his name was Humphrey .^therton." On the grave of three brothers, btf the name of Clarke. '•Here lies three Claiks.tlicir accounts are even, Entered on earth, carried up to heav- Johnson, in his " Wonder Work- ing Providence," thus speaks of Dorchester in 16:54. " The forme of this Towne is al- most like a Serpent turning her head to the Northward ; over against Tompson's Island, and the Castle, her body and wings being chiefly built on, are filled some- what thick of Houses, onely that one of her Wings isclift, herTayle being of such large extent that Shec can hardly draw it after her. Her houses for dwelling are about one hundred and forty ; Orchards and Gardens, full of Fruit-trees, plenty of Corne Land, although much of it hath been long in tillage, yet hath it ordinarily good crops ; the number of trees are near upon 1.500. Cowes and other Cattell of that kinde about 450. Thus hatli the Lord been pleased to increase his poore dispersed people, wliose number in this Flock are n.ear about 150. Their first Pastor called to feede them was the Reverend and godly ]\Ir. Maveruck." Among the first settlers of Dor- chester was George Minot, a rul- ing elder of the church for thirty years. He erected a dwelling-house in that part of Dorchester where the pleasant village of Neponset now stands. That house is now standing, and is doubtless one of NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the oldest houses in the country. It is in good repair, and has ever remained in possession of _Mr. Mi- not's lineal descendants. Mr. Mi- not died December 24, 1671, aged 78. This house is more celebrated for the female heroism displayed within its v/alls, than for its anti- quity. A party of Narraganset In- dians, hunting on the borders of Nc- ponset river, stopped at elder Mi- not's house and demanded food and drink. On being refused they threatened vengeance, and tlie sa- chem, or chief of the party, left an Indian in ambush to watch an op- portiiaity to effect it. Soon after, in the absence of all the family, except a young woman and two small children, the Indian attacked the house and fired at the young woman, but missed his mark. The girl placed the children under two brass kettles and bade tliem be si- lent. She then loaded Mr. Minot's gun and shot the Indian in the shoulder. He again attacked the house, and in attempting to enter the window, the girl threw a shovel full of live coals into his face and lodged them in his blanket. On this the Indian fled. The next day he was found dead in the woods. The Indian's name was Chicka- taubut, but not the Narraganset sa- chem of that name. The govern- ment of Massachusetts bay present- ed this brave young woman with a silver wristband, on which hei- name was engraved, with this motto, — " She slew the JVarrhaganset hun- ter." Dorset, Vt. Bennington co. This town was first settled in 1768, and organized the following year. Paulet and Battenkill rivers rise in this town, and, with the waters of Otter creek, which pass the northern part, afford some mill privileges, which are used for manufacturing purposes. There are two mountains partly in this town, the Dorset and Equinox. There is a cavern in the south part of the town of some note. It is entered by an aperture nearly 10 feet square, " wlach opens into a spacious room nine rods in length and four wide. At the further end of this apartment are two openings which arc about .30 feet apart. The one on the right is three feet from the floor, and is about 20 inches by six feet in length. It leads to an apartment 20 feet long, 12 wide and 12 high. From this i-oom there is an opening suthcient to admit a man to pass through sideways about 20 feet, when it opens into a large hall 80 feet long and 30 wide. The other aperture from the first room is about as large as a common door, and leads to an apartment 12 feet square, out of which is a passage to another considerable room, in which is a rpring of water. This cavern is said to have been explored 40 or 50 rods without arriving at the end." Dorset lies 26 miles N. from Bur- lington and 91 S. S. W. from Monl- peiier. Population, 1S30, 1,507. Eoiiglas, Mass. Worcester co. This town lies 47 miles W. S. W. from Boston, 17 S. E. from Worcester, and 21 N. W. from Providence. Population, 1830, 1,742. Here is good mead- ow land, iron ore, and valuable water privileges on Mumford liver. In this town was manufactured, in 1836, ^55,000 value of cotton goods; boots and shoes, ijfc5,250 ; leather, .|1,500; and ^116,400 of axes and hatchets; besides large quantities of hatchet handles and shoe lasts. Incorporated, 1731. Kover, Me. Piscataquis co. Bounded N. by Piscataquis river, S. by Garland, W. by Sangerville and E. by Atkin- son. It lies 77 miles N. by E. from Augusta, and about 35 miles N. W. from Bangor. Incorporated, 1822. Population, 1837, 1,042. Dover is the shire town of this new county. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. and remarkable for its beauty. It produced, in 1837, 10,290 bushels of wheat. Dover, IV. II. This is one of the most interest- ing and important towns in New Hampshire. It is one of the county towns of Strafford counlj', and liej 40 miles E. fiom Concord, 12 N. W. by N. from Portsmouth, and 45 S. W. from Portland. Population, 1830, 5,549. The principal streams of Dover, are the Cocheco, and Bellamy Bank, or Back river. They take a S. E. course through the town, and unite with other waters to form the Piscataqua. Cocheco, or Quocbecho river, has its rise from several snnill streams in New Durham, wliich unite in Farmington, whence the liver meanders throu2,h Rochester, there receiving the Isinglass, a trib- utary, and thence passes through Dover into the Newichwannock,or Salmon Fall river, the principal branch of the Piscataqua. The Cocheco is a beautiful river, and very important (o the inhabitants of Rochester and Dover. Passing over this town in any direction, the trav- eller finds no rugged mountains, nor extensive bai'ren plains, but occa- sionally ascends gentle swells of land, from the height of which the eye meets sonie (lelightful object; a winding stream, a well cultivated farm, or a distant village. In the S. part of the town is a neck of land about 2 miles long and half a mile broad, having Piscataqua on one. side, and Back river on the other. From the road on cither hand, the land gradually dcscc;nds to the riveris. It commands a very delightful, variegated, and exten- sive prospect of bays, adjacent shores, and distant mountains. On this neck the iirst settlement of the town was made, in 1()23, by a cojupany in England, whoso design it was to plant a colony, and estab- lish a fishery around tlie Piscata- qua ; for which purpose they sent i)V(M-, with several otiiers, Edward and William Hilton, fishmongers, of London. These men commenced their operations on the Neck at a place by the Indians called IVini- (•/ia/H//H/f,wliichtli(^y called. A c/rtA- ain, and afterwards leaver. For sevei-al years, this spot embraced the principal part of the population of the town ; here was erected the lir.st meeting-house, afterwards sur- rounded with an entrenchment, and flankarls, the remains of which arc still visible ; here the people as- k-cmhlcd to worship, and to transact their public business. In process of time, the business and popula- tion of the town began to centre around Cocheco falls, about 4 miles N. \\ . from the neck. These fall." are in the river whoso name they bear, and give to the w^ater that pas- ses over them a sudden descent of 32 1-2 feet. Situate at the head of navigation, about 12 miles from the ocean, having a fertile country on the north, west, and south, they are considered among the most valu- able in New England. Around these falls the beautiful village of Dover is situated, containing many handsome buildings. The Dover "Cotton Factory Com- panj-," at Cocheco falls, was incor- porated in 1S20. They have one brick mill of 420 feet by 45, 7 stories high, and two other mills of the same material, 154 by 43 feet, one 5 and the other 6 stories high. — These mills oontrdn 25,040 spindles and 7(JS looms, and manufacture an- nually 5,000,000 yards of cotton cloth ; the jjiiucipal part of which is bleached, and printed into calico by the company. This company employ a capital of more than a million of dollars, and about 1,000 persons. There are other manu- facturing establishments at Dover, but this is the principal. A socictv of Friends was estab- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. lished here at an early period, and formerly comprised about one third of the population. A congregational church was or- ganized in 1638. A Mr. Leverich, a worthy puritan, was their first minister, and probably the first or- dained minister that preached the gospel in New Hampshire. Mr. Leverich soon removed, and until the settlement of the pious Daniel Maud, in 1642, the church was much oppressed by the bad charac- ter of their ministers. The Rev. Jeremy Belknap, D. D. the celebrated histoiian of New Hampshire, was ordained in this town in 1767. He removed to IJoston, and was settled there April 4, 1787. He died in Boston, June -.^0, 1798, aged 54. This town in its early j'ears was greatly frequented by the Indians ; and experienced many suli'erings in their repeated attacks upon the inhabitants. In 1675, Maj. Wal- dron by a stratagem secured about 200 Indians at Dover, who had at times exhibited signs of hostility. Seven or eight of them, who had been guilty of some atrocities, were immediately hanged, and the rest pold into slavery. The Indians abroad rega-ded this act of Waldron as a breach of faith, and swore against him implacable revenge. In 1G89, after a lapse of 13 years, they determined to execute their project. Previous to the fatal night (27th of June) some hints had been thrown out by the squaws, but they were either misunderstood or dis- regarded ; and the people sufltred them to sleep in their garrisons as usual. In the stillness of night the doors of the garrisons were opened, and the Indians, at a concei-ted sig- nal, rose from their lurking places, and rushed upon the defenceless in- habitants. Waklion,though80 years of age, made a gallant defence, but was overwhelmed by the superior numbers of his iidversaries, who literally cut him to pieces. In this affair, 2.3 persons were killed, and 29 made prisoners. The Indiana were soon overtaken and nearly the whole party destroyed. Dover, Vt. Windham co. This town was a part of Waidshorough, until 1810. It lies 12 miles N. \V. from Brattle- borough, 17 N. E. from Benning- ton, and 120 S. by W. fiom Mont- pelier. The land in Dover is high and uneven ; — more fit for pastur- age than tillage. It is the source of several branches of West, and a branch of Deerfield river. Ser- pentine and chlorite slate are found he?e. Population, ISSU, 831. Cover, Mass. Noi'folk CO. Dover lies 5 milei W. from Dedham, and 14 S. S. W. from Boston. It was taken from Dedham in 17S4. This town is bounded northerly by Charles river, and in it are manufactures of nails, iron hoops and rods, ploughs, brush- es, boots and shoes. Total amount of manufactures in 1836, $99,558. The surface of Dover is uneven, and a large part of it covered with wood. Population, 1837, 518. Bo\^ 11 East, Me. W^e crave the favor of a letter from our friends " Town East." See Barnard, Me. Dracut, Mass. Middlesex co. Dracut is united to Lowell by a bridge over Merri- mack liver. The town is pleasant- ly situated on the N. side, on the line of N. H., with a tolerable soil and some water power, by Beaver river. It lies 27 miles N. from Bos- ton, and 16 N. by E. from Concord. Incorpoi-ated, 1701. Population, 1837, 1,898. The manufactures of Dracut consist of woolen goods, leather, cutlery, boots and shoe*. Annual amount, exclusive of wool- en goods, about !fe25,0C0. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Dresden, Me. Lincoln co. On the E. bank of Kennebec river, near the head ol' Swan Is^land, 9 miles N. W. from Wiscasset, 11 S. from Augusta, and 59 N. E. from Portland. This is a larg-e aoricultural township, with some trade on the river. Previous to the division of the county, in 1789, Dresden was the shire town or place where all the courts in Maine were hohlcn, E. of Kenne- bec river. Dresden was incorpo- rated as a town in 1794. Popula- tion, 1837, 1,570. I>rc«"sville, X. Ilf See TValpole. DnbUu, N. H. Cheshire co. It is 10 miles F. by S. from Kecne, and .'jO S. W. from Concord. Dublin is situated on the height of land between Con- necticut and Merrimack rivers. Its streams are small ; those on the W. side run into the Ashuelot, those on the E. into Contoocook river. The rain which falls on the roof of the church is shared by the rivers. — There is a pond near the middle of the town called Centre pond, one mile in length and a])Out the same in breadth. A large portion of the Grand Monadnock lies in the N. W. part of Dublin, and near the cen- tre of the town is Breed's moun- tain. Monadnock was formerly co- vered with a growth of small tim- ber and shrubbery, but fires hav- ing run over it at diflorcnt times, it presents little more than ragged rocks. Between the rocks, how- ever, there are low whortleberry bushes, which produce great quan- tities of fruit of a very rich flavor. The season for ripening is the lat- ter part of August, and to those who ascend the summit at this spa- pon thej' arc peculiarly grateful. This mountain is not difficult of ac- cess. The view from its summit is sublime. Its heisrht is 3,718 feet above the level of the sea. The 11 land in general is much better for grazing than tillage. The late Rev. Edward Si)rague bequeathed near- ly 8,000 dollars for the support of public schools, the annual interest of which is to be applied to this ob- ject. He also loft the town .*f5,000, the interest of which, paid quarter- ly, is to 1)0 ai)plied to the support of an ordained congregational min- ister, who shall statedly preach in Dublin. The first settlements were in 1762, by John Alexander, and others. Population, 1830, 1,218. Dudley, Mass. Worcester co. This good farm- ing town was called by the Indians Chahanaknngkonutm. It is finely watered by the Quinnebaug and other streams, and possesses excel- lent mill privileges. During the year ending April 1, 1837, the val- ue of the manufactures of Dudley amounted to f;^31(j.S2fi. The arti- cles manufactured were woolen goods, leather, shoos, scythe snaiths, chairs, and cabinet ware. The val- ue of wool grown wasq(!l,5S5. Dudley lies .5.3 miles S. W. from Boston, IS S. fiom Worcester, and 34 N. W. from Piovidence. Incorpo- rated, 1731. Population, 1837, 1,415. Duke's County, Mass. Edgarton is the county town. This county is formed of the islands of Martha's Vineyard, Chappequid- dic, Elizabeth Islands, and No Man's Land — the latter of which is the southern extremity of Mas- sachusetts. These islands lie off and S. of Barnstable county and Buzzard's bay, and contain about 120 square miles. The principal island, Martha's Vineyard, the In- dian JVope, or Capaicock, was first settled by the whites, at Edgarton, in Ifill, and is 21 miles in length and 6 in breadth. Although a large portion of this county is woodland, and many of the people engaged in the fisheries and coasting trade, yet considerable exports are annu- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ally made of wool, woolen cloth, salt and grain. This county suffer- ed much during the revolutionary war. In 1778, the people were compelled to surrender their tire arms and 2,300 head of cattle to the British. Incorporated, 1695. Pop- ulation, 1S20, 3,292; 1830, 3,-518 ; 1837, 3,785: 32 inhabitants to a square mile. There were on these islands, in 1837, 11,281 sheep. Dnmnter, N. H., Coos CO., is bounded N. by Mills- field and Errol, and comprises 23,- 040 acres. It was granted March 8, 1773, and is watered by the Am- moiioosuck and Androscoggin. — Population, 1830, 65. Diuumerstou, Vt. Windham co. West river passes through this town and gives it a good water power. The surface is rough and hilly, but adapted to graz- ing. Black mountain, near the cen- tre, is a vast body of granite. Good slate for buildings, and primitive limestone are found. There are in Dummerston some manufacturing- concerns, and a considerable number of sheep. Population, 1830, 1,592: 90 miles S. from Montpelier, and 8 S, E. from Ncwfane. Ditul>arto», N. II. Merrimack co. This town lies 9 miles S. W. from Concord, and 7 S. E. from Hopkinton. Population, 1830, 1,067. The situation of the town is somewhat elevated, though there are but few hills, nor any mountains. The air is clear, the water is good, and tlie health of its inhabitants is seldom interrupted by sickness. The soil is good, pecu- liarly suited for corn, wheat and or- charding. Almost every lot in town is capable of making a good farm. The farmers here have good build- ings and are excellent hvisbandmen. The advantages in point of water privileges are not great. The in- habitants are principally descend- ants of Scotch Irish, so called, from the Nortli of Ireland. Their pos- terity still retain many traits of character peculiar to that people. Dunltarton was granted in 1751, to Archibald Stark and others. Its present name is derived from Dum- barton, in Scotland, from whence Stark emigrated. The first settle- ment was made about 1749. Wil- liam Stinson, born in Ireland, came to Londonderry with his father. He was much respected and was a use- ful man. James Rogers was from Ireland, and father to Major Robert Rogers. He was shot in the woods, being mistaken for a bear. Duninore Lake, Vt. See Salisbury. Dunstable, Mass. Middlesex co. Nashua river wa- ters the N. W. part of the town, and passes into Nashua, N. H. The surface of the town is level ; — some part of it is good land, but general- ly it is light and sandy. It has no manufactures, and only 315 sheep. Population, 1837, 570. Incorpora- ted, 1683. Dunstable lies 27 miles N. W. from Boston, 18 N. by W. from Concord, and 6 S. from Nashua. Diirliani, Me. Cumberland co. Located on the S. side of Androscoggin river, and united with Lisbon by a bridge. This is a township of good land, and farming is the principal occupation of the inhabitants. Durham lies 25 miles N. from Portland and 31 S. W. from Augusta. Population, 1837, 1,832. Incorporated, 1789. Durliani, N. H., Strafford co., is 32 miles E. by S. from Concord, 11 W. N. W. from Portsmouth, and 7 S. from Dover. Population, 1830,1,606. The situ- ation of this town, upon the Piscat- aqua and its branches, is very favor- able both as to water power and transportation. Oyster river, one of NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the branches of the Piscataqua, is- sues from Wheelwright's pond, in Lee, and after running nearly its whole course in Durham, furnishing in its progress several convenient mill scats, falls info the main river near Piscataqua bridge. This bridge is 2,600 feet in length and 40 in width. It cost .f 65,400. The tide flows in this branch of the river up to the falls near the meeting-house in the village, where business to a large amount is annually tiansacted. This village is a very central depot for the lumber and produce of the adjacent country. Lamprey river, another branch of the Piscataqua, runs through the westerly part of tliis town, over several falls remark- ably well adapted for mill seats, into the town of New Market, where it falls into the Great Bay. Upon both sides of Oyster river, a deep argil- laceous loam prevails, which is pe- culiarly favorable to the production of the grasses, of which very heavy crops are cut, and hay is an article of considerable export. Extensive ledges of excellent granite, with which this town abounds, have been the source of much profitable em- ployment to the inhabitants. A large block of detached granite in the southeast part of this town was formerly placed in a very singular situation. Its weight was 60 or 70 tons, and it was poised so exactly upon two other stones as to be visi- bly moved by the wind. It was some years since dislodged from this extraordinary position by the barbarous curiosity of some visit- ors. Durham was originally a j)art of Dover; but soon after its settle- ment was formed into a distinct par- ish by the name of Oi/stej- river, from the stream which passes through it. From the abundance of excellent oysters found in its waters, this river probably derived its name, and it was a famous ren- dezvous of the Indians. For many years this place suffered exceeding- ly by Indian depredations and mur- ders. In 1694, when a large part of the inhabitants had marched to the westward, the Indians, who were dispersed in the woods about Oyster river, having diligently ob- served the number of men in one of the garrisons, rushed upon eigh- teen of them, as they were going to their morning devotions, and hav- ing cut oil' their retreat to the house, put them all to death except one, who fortunately escaped. They then attacked the house, in which there were only two boys, beside the women and children. The boys kept them off for some time and wounded several of them. At length the Indians set fire to the house and even then the boys would not surrender till the Indians had promised to spare their lives. The hitter, however, perlldiously mur- dered three or four children, one of whom they fixed upon a sharp stake in the view of its mother. The next spring the Indians nar- rowly watched the frontiers, to de- termine the safest and most vul- nerable points of attack. The settlement at Oyster river was se- lected for destruction. Here were twelve gai-risoned houses, amply sufficient for the reception of the inhabitants ; but not apprehending any danger, many of the families remained in their unfortified houses, and those who were in the garrisons were indifferently prepared for a siege, as they were destitute of powder. The enemy approached the place undiscovered and halted near the falls. One John Dean, whose house stood near the falls, happening to rise very early for a jouiney before the dawn of day, was shot as he came out of his door. The attack now commenced on all points where the enemy was ready. The enemy entered the house of a Mr. Adams without resistance, where they murdered fourteen pei'sons, whose gra%'es can still be traced. The house of John Buss, the minister, was destroyed NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. together with his valuable library. He was absent at the time, and his wife and family fled to the woods. Many other cruelties were perpe- trated, when (he Indians, fearing that the inhabitants from the neigh- boring settlements would collect against them, retreated, having killed or captured between 90 and 100 persons, and destroyed 20 houses, 5 of which were gairisoned. Minute accounts of these disasters are given in Belknap's valuable His- tory of New Hampshire, to which the reader is referred. The first preacher who statedly officiated in Durham was John Buss; but he never was ordained. He died 1736, at the age of lOS. Rev. Hugh Adams settled March 2«, 1718. Maj. Gen. John Sullivan, of the revolutionary army, was a res- ident of this town, and died here Jan. 23, 1795. He was a native of Berwick, Me. ; was a distinguished commander during the war; was president of the state three years, and afterwards district judge of New Hampshire. On all occasions he proved himself the firm support- er of the rights of the country. Durliam, Ct. Middlesex co. This town was first settled in 1698. Its Indian name was Coginchaus^. It lies 7 miles S. by W. from Middletown, and 20 S. from Hartford. Popula- tion, 1830, 1,116. Agriculture is the principal employment of the people of Durham, for which they have rather an uneven but fertile soil. " This town has been distin- guished many years for a very tine breed of cattle. Two oxen, pre- sented by some of the inhabitants to General Washington, furnished a dinner for all the officers of the American army at Valley Forge, and all their servants. These oxen were driven almost five hundred miles, through a country nearly ex- hausted of its forage ; yet one of them, a steer, five years old, weigh- ed two thousand two hundred and seventy pounds." Capt. Israel Camp, a noted psalm- odist died in Durham, in 1778. Dustoii's Islaud, N. H. This small island in the Merrimack at the mouth of Contoocook river, between Concord and Boscawen, has become celebrated on account of an exploit of a lady whose name it bears. On the loth March, 1698, the Indians made a descent on Ha- verhill, Mass. where they took Mrs. Hannah Duston, who was confined to her bed with an infant only six days old, and attended by her nurse, Mary Niff. The Indians took Mrs. Duston from her bed and carried her away with the nurse and infant. They soon despatched the latter by dashing its head against a tree. When they had proceeded as far as this island, which has been justly called Duston's island, on their way to an Indian town situate a consid- erable distance above, the Indians informed the women that they must be stripped and run the gauntlet through the village on their arrival. Mrs. Duston and her nurse had been assigned to a family consist- ing of twostout men, three women, and seven children, or young In- dians, besides an English boy who had been taken from Worcester. Mrs. Duston, aware of the cruel- ties that awaited her, formed the design of exterminating the whole family, and prevailed upon the nurse and the boy to assist her in their destruction. A little before day, finding the whole company in a sound sleep, she awoke her con- federates, and with the Indian hatchets despatched ten of the twelve. One of the women whom they thought they had killed made her escape, and a favorite boy they designedly left. Mrs. Duston and her companions arrived safe home with the scalps, though their dan- ger from the enemy and from fam- ine in travelling so far, must have NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. been great. The general court of Massachusetts made her a grant of j£50, and she received many other valuable presents. Duxbiiry, Vt. Washington co. This town lies on the S. side of Onion river, and is watered by several of its brandies. The land along Onion river is good, hut the greater part of the township is mountainous and unfit for culti- vation. Duxbury lies 12 miles V»'. from Montpelier. First settled, 1786. Population, 1S30, 651. Duxbnry, Mass. Plymouth co. This town lies on Massachusetts bay in Plymouth har- bor. It is 29 miles S. E. from Bos- ton and 6 N. from Plymouth. Dux- bury affords some good land, a gooil water power and a great variety of scenery. Its Indian name was Jlat- akeeset. Ship building, the coasting trade and fisheries is the chief busi- ness of the place. In 1837, it had 46 vessels employed in the cod and mackerel fishery, the product of which amounted to ;J;C9,51S. Val- ue of vessels built, $169,048. The value of woolen cloth, leather, boots, shoes, salt, iron, brass castings and tinware manufactured, amounted to $105,787. Some attention is paid here to rearing sheep, and the man- ufacture of cordage. There is in Duxbury an apple tree noted for its age, size and fruitful- nes8. It is upwards of a hundred years old. It is forty feet in height, and its circumference, eight inches from the ground, is 16 feet. Its fruit, in one year, has made 10 bar- rels of cider, besides 30 bushels for the cellar. Population, 1837,2,789. Dyer's Bay, Me. See Steuben. Eagle Lake, Me. This large lake is in the county of Penobscot, between the Aroos- took and St. John's rivers. It is 11* connected with some lakes of smal- ler size. The general outlet is north by Chipquedopskook river, about 14 miles in length, into the river St John. Great quantities of logs are taken to this outlet, sawed and sent to New Brunswick. East Bridge-water, Mass. Plymouth co. This town lies on a branch of Taunton river, and was, until 1823, a part of the ancient Bridgcwater. It is 24 miles S. by E. from Boston and 17 S. W. from Plymouth. Population, 18.30, 1,653 —1837, 1,927. East Biidgewater has a good water power, and man- ufactured the year ending April 1, 1837, $414,044value of goods. The articles consisted of cotton goods, boots, slioes, leather, bar iron, nails, tack-^, lead pipe, chaises, window blinds, sashes and shoe boxes. Eastbrook, Me. Hancock co. Incorporated, 1837. See " Baton £^ast." East GreenMicb, R. I. Shire town of Kent co. This town was incorporated in 1677, and is pleasantly located on Narragan- set bay, 13 miles S. from Provi- dence, and comprises an excellent harbor for ships of 500 tons burthen. A number of vessels are owned here, and the coasting trade and fisheries give employment to many of the inhabitants. The town is watered by Maskachug and Hunt's rivers, on which are cotton mills and other manufactories. The soil of the town is rather rough and stony, but it yields good crops of corn, barley and potatoes. East Greenwich is noted for excellent fruit and cider. The " Kentish Guards" was es- tablished here in 1774, and proved a nursery of distinguished officers, of whicli the celebrated General Nathaniel Greene was one. Across the bav, to Bristol, is about 8 miles. Population, 1830, 1,591. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. East Hacldaiu, Ct. Middlesex co. A town of con- siderable trade and manufacturing enterprise, on the east side of the Connecticut, and at the outlet of Salmon river. It lies IS miles above the mouth of Connecticut river, 14 below Middletown, and 30 S. S. E. from Hartford. The soil is hilly and rocky, and more fit for grazing than tillage. Considerable business is done here in the shad fishery. It is supposed that more leather is made in this than in any other town in the state. This place has fine water privileges, both for navigation and manufactures. A short distance fiom the centre of the town is a pond covering 1,000 acres. On the river formed by the outlet of this pond, the water is precipitated over rocks nearly 70 feet perpendicular. The scenery around these falls is beau- tiful, and worthy of particular no- tice. There are 6 cotton mills in East Haddam, two of wliich manufac- ture twine. Leesville, on Salmon river, and Mechanicsville , on Moodus river, a branch of Salmon river, ire very flourishing settlements. This place, the Indian JlTacki- moodus, is remarkable for frequent slight shocks of earthquakes, pro- ducing singular noises, which the Indians attributed to the anger of their gods towards the white men. It is said that some valuable geolo- gical discoveries have recently been made in this quarter. The town was first settled in 1685, but not in- corporated until 1724. Population, in 1835, about 3,000. This is the birth place of many distinguished men. The venerable Nathaniel Emmons, D. D., of Franklin, Mass. was born here. Eastliam, Mass., Barnstable co., on a narrow part of the cape, 23 miles E. by N. from Barnstable. Population in 1837, 1,059. First settled, 1644. Incor- porated, 1646. The product of the cod and mackerel fishei-y in 1836, was $30,900. The value of salt, boots, shoes and palm-leaf hats man- ufactured, was $10,561. E^astliampton, Mass. Hampshire co. This is a pleas- ant town on the W. side of Connec- ticut river. The Hampshire and Hampden canal passes through it. In the year ending April 1, 1837, $40,000 worth of lasting buttons were manufactured ; also cotton goods, leather, boots and shoes, to the amount of $15,300: 5 miles S. from Northampton. Pop. 1837,793. East Hartford, Ct. Hartford co. This town is situa- ted opposite to Hartford, and con- nected with it by a bridge across Connecticut river. The soil of the town is generally fertile, but the alluvial meadows on the border of the river, of which there is a large tract, is of a superior quality. The agricultural products of this town are very considerable. Hackanum river furnishes the town with a good water power, on which are val- uable manufacturing establishments particularly of paper. East Hart- ford is noted for its manufactures in foi'iner years. The first powder mill in this country, it is said, was erected here in 1775. Anchors, mill screws, nail rods, gunpowder, paper, snuft" and glass were manu- factured here in 1784. The early settlers found the ferocious and war- like tribe of Podunk Indians in this neighborhood. One sachem com- manded two hundred bowmen. This is a very pleasant town. The main street, which is very long and wide, is delightfully shaded by stately elms. East Hartford was taken from Hartford in 1784. Popula- tion, 1830, 3,537. East Haven, Vt> Essex CO. Moose river rises Id NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the easterly part of this town and the Passumpsic pa'sses through the westerly part. The l;ui(l is moun- tainous and most of it unlit for cul- tivation. It lies 45 miles N. fi-oni ^lontpclier. First settled, 1790. Population, 1830, 33. East Haven, Ct. New Haven ro. This town was taken from New Haven, in 1783, and is connected with New Haven by a bridge. Population, 1S30, 1,229. It has good navioabie privileges, and is watered by Quinnipiac river. It has some trade, but the principal employment of the inhabitants is agriculture and lishing. This was a great resort for the Indians in former years. On Grave Hill was an Indian fort and ceme- tery. Bones of Indians of a large size, and domestic and warlike im- plements for savage use, have been found here. The Indian JVell, in a granite rock, on an island in Stony river, is a curiosity. It is about 30 inches in diameter, very smooth at the bottom. It is now about 5 feet in depth, but formerly it was deep- er. It was evidently formed by the attrition of sand and pebbles which passed over this rock, it being at some former period, the bed of the river. East Haven is pleasant- ly located, and commands a tine prospect of Long Island Sound. Kast ICiiig^stoii, X. II. Rockingham co. Its soil is of an excellent quality, and well adapted to the cultivation of grain and grass. Powow river crosses the S. W. part of this town, iiaving its sources in the ponds of Kingston. The town was incorporated Nov. 17, 173S. Rev. Peter ColRn was settled here in 1739. Po])ulation, 1830, -142. It lies 40 miles S. E. by E. from Con- cord, and 20 S. S. W. from Ports- mouth. East Macliias, Me. Washington co. This is a flour- ishing town on navigable waters. It was incorporated in 1S26, and ia the eastern part of Old Machias. It lies on both .sides of East Machi- as river, 149 miles E. by N. from Augu'ita. Population, 1837, 1,282. East Machias has a great water {:\^vver, a large number of mills, and a very pleasant village. It is ex- tensively engaged in the lumber trade. Easton, Mass. Bristol CO. Two branches of Taun- ton river water this town, on which are a woolen and 4 cotton mills, and various iron works. The man- ufactures consist of cotton and wool- en goods, pig iron, iron castings, wire, boots, shoes, shovels, spades, forks, hoes, cutlery, palm-leaf hats, straw bonnets, surveyors' instru- ments and shoe pegs : — the value of which in one year (exclusive of woolen cloth, boots and shoes,) amounted to 207,100. The manu- facture of shovels, spades, forks and hoes, amounted to ,><(108,000. Eas- ton lies 22 miles S. from Boston and 10 N. by W. from Taunton. In- corporated, 1725. Population, 1837, 1,976. Eastport, Me. Washington co. The township of Eastport embraces and is consti- tuted of Moose, Dudley's, Frede- rick and Patmos islands, the chief of which, whereon the village of Eastport stands, is Moose island, in sight of, and but a short distance from, Indian and Campo Bello isl- ands, belonging to the British. East- port is a beautiful harbor in Passa- maquoddy bay, on tlie eastern boun- dary of the United States, and no- ted for smuggling adventures by strangers visiting the place dur- ing the embargo and war. It is about 7 miles N. by W. from West Quoddy Head, 176 E. by N. from Augusta, and about 30 E.N. E. from Machias. The tide is very rapid, and rises 25 feet. There are two NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. long bridges connecting Moose isl- and with Dennysville and Perry ; each cost Jf!l0,000. Eastport and Lubec are the chief towns in Pas- samaquoddy bay, and are extensive- ly euetU,Cape, Me. This celebrated cape lies in th« town of Cape Elizabeth, and forms the Avestern limits of Casco bay. Near the point of the cape is a light-house, 50 feet in heiglit, in N. lat. 43° 33', W. Ion. 70° 11'. For the tovn of Cape Eliza- beth, see liegister. ElizabetU Islands, Mass. These islands are attached to Dukes county, and lie between Buzzard's bay and Vineyard sound- They are 16 in number. The larg- est, Nashawn and Nashawenna, are inhabited. Gosnold, the discoverer of Cape Cod, spent the winter of 1602-3, on one of these islands. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Bllington, Ct. Tolland CO. Ellington was taken from East Windsor in 1786, and was that part of East Windsor called the Great Marsh. The soil is light and dry, but considerably fertile. It is generally level, but the east- ern part is hilly and mountainous. Formerly the lands in this town were held in low estimation, but by the industry of the people in their cultivation they have risen in char- acter and value. " The scenery in this town embraces considerable va- riety and is uncommonly interesting and beautiful." The " Ellington School" for boys, situated in a very neat village, is in high rejuite. Pop- ulation, 1830, 1,455. Ellington lies 12 miles N. E. from Hartford, and is bounded S. E. by Tolland. Elliot, Me. York CO. This town lies on fhe N. W. of Kittery of which it con- stituted a part until 1810. It ad- joins Salmon Fall river on the S. W. by which it is separated from New Hampshire — and is bounded N. by South Berwick, and E. by York. It is a good farming town and probably contains as great a proportion of valuable tillage land as any in the county according to its size. Population, 1837, 1,859. Elliot is lOS miles S. W. from Au- gusta. Elliots ville, Me. Somerset co. This place is 81 miles from Augusta. See " Down East." Ellis' Rivers. Ellis' river, in Maine, \s a tribu- tary to the Androscoggin. It rises N. of Rumford, in the county of Oxford, and passes through that town. Ellis' river, in JVeiv Hamp- shire, rises on the E. side of the White mountains, in several small streams, near the sources of Pea- body river, and separating into two streams which again unite, it falls into the Saco at Bartlett. Elligo Poiid, Vt. This beautiful sheet of water, two miles in length and half a mile in breadth, lies partly in Craftsbury and partly in Greensborough, Or- leans county. Its northern outlet passes to Black river; its southern to the Lamoille. There are two small islands in the lake. This was a favorite resort for the Indians, and now attracts numerous lovers of fine trout and delightful scenery to its borders. EllsivortU, Me. Chief town of Hancock CO. This is a pleasant and flourishing town on lioth sides of Union river, at the head of navigation. The village is principally on the E. side, where there is a good bridge across the river, 3 miles above the entrance of the river into the waters con- nected with Blue Hill bay. The tide rises at the bridge 10 or 12 feet, and Ellsworth possesses an enviable position for maritime and inland trade. The location of the courts for this county was changed from Castine to this place in 1S3S. The court house is eligibly situated on the W. side of the river. Ellsworth is quite an agricultural township. It has a good soil, and considerable attention is given to the growth of wheat and wool. It lies 81 miles E. by N. from Augusta, and 30 N. E. by E. from Bangor. Population, 1830, 1,385—1837, 2,195. Ellswortli, ]V. H., Grafton co., is 52 miles N. N.W. from Concord and 20 S. E. from Haverhill. Population, 1830, 234. It is a mountainous tract of territo- ry. The most prominent elevation is Carr's mountain. A small stream issues from West Branch pond and runs into the Pemigewasset at Campton. The soil, though in some parts sterile, produces wheat, rye NEAV ENGLAND GAZETTEER. and corn. Maple sugar is made here, and clover seed is raised in considerable quantities. This town, formerly called Trecoihick, was granted May 1, 1769, to Barlow Trecotliick. Elmore, Vt. Lamoille co. First settled, 1790. Elmore lies Ki miles N. from Mont- pelier and 10 S. from Hydepark. Population, 1830, 442. There are five ponds in this town, the waters of which, the town being very high, descend partly to Lamoille and part- ly to Onion rivers. Some cattle and some wool are sent to market. Einbden, Itlc. Somerset co. A fine township of land with two pleasant villages, on the W. side of Kennebec river. Seven Mile brook passes through the S. W. corner of the town. — Embden produced, in 1S37, 6,400 bushels of wheat and considerable wool. Incorporated, 1804. Popu- lation, 1S37, 1,048. It is 46 miles N. N. W. from Augusta and about 18 miles N. by W. from Norridge- wock. Eufield, Me. Penobscot co. Incorporated, 1S35. See " Down East." £nneia, ]V. H. Grafton co. Enfield comprises 24,060 acres, of which about 2,500 acres are water. It is 10 miles S. E. from Dartmouth College and 40 N. W. from Concord. Its surface is diversified with hills and valleys, and watered by a variety of ponds and streams, stored with fish of ev- ery species common to tlie country. Mascomy pond, which has acquir- ed from travellers the appellation of Pleasant pond, is a beautiful col- lection of water, 4 miles in length and of various breadth, interspersed with islands and checkered with inlets. Its eastern banks are cov- ered with trees; the hills gradually rise one above another for some dis- tance. Along the western bank, between the pond and Mont Calm, within a few I'ods of the water, ex- tends the turnpike road, the whole distance through a beautiful vil- lage, shaded to the N. on either side by a growth of trees. Masco- my river empties into this pond in the N. W. part. This pond is sup- posed to have once been much high- er than it now is, and the plain and villages to the south arc siipj)oscd to have been the bed of it. This fact is sufficiently evident from tlie ancient shore still remaining round the pond, about 30 feet above high water, and from logs having been frequently found 12 feet below the surface of the plain once flowed. On the W. bank, near the soutliern extremity, is the Shakers' settle- ment, situated on a feitile plain. — The structure of the buildings, tho' not lofty, are neat and convenient. They occupy about 1,000 acres of land, and their number consists of about 240. They are agricultural- ists and mechanics. Garden seeds are grown, and wooden ware, whips, corn brooms, leather, and various other articles, are manufactured by them with peculiar neatness. See Canterbury. Mountain pond, on the summit of Mont Calm, is 200 rods long, and 100 wide. At the outlets of the ponds are mills of various kinds. The town was foruicrlj^ called Rel- han, and was incorporated by char- ter, granted to Jedediah Dana and otheis, Julv 4th, 1761. Population, 1830, 1,492. Knfield, Mass. Hampshire co. Swift river pass- es through this town, and adds much to its beauty and importance. — The manufactures of this place, the year ending April 1, 1837, amount- ed to $182^669. The articles con- sisted of cotton and woolen goods, leather, boots, shoes, liats, hoes, shingle machines, palm-leaf hats. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. wool cards, cotton batting and wick- ing. The value of wool grown was $1,090. Enfield lies 71 miles W. from Boston, and 15 E. from Northampton. Popnlation, 1837, 1,058. Eniiclil, Ct. Hartford co. This town was first settled, 1681, by emigrants fiom Sa- lem, Mass. : it formerly belonged to Mass. and was a part of Spring- field. The first biidge across Con- necticut river was built in 1808, connecting Enfield M'ith Suifield. The surface is generally level and the soil moist and fertile. The street, where most of the inhabit- ants reside, is very pleasant, wide and well shaded. The village near the river was commenced about 1831, at which the manufacture of carpeting is extensively pursued. About 120 looms are employed, making about 800 yards daily. The manufacture of ploughs is also an important pursuit in Enfield. It is watered by Scantick river. Pop- ulation, 1830, 2,12.9. It is 18 miles N. from Hartford, and 8 S. from Springfield, Mass. Iilnglisliniaii's Bay, Me. This bay is a few miles W. of Machias bay, in Washington coun- ty. It receives the waters of Chand- lers river, a considerable stream : it contains a number of islands, and furnishes many fine harbors Head harbor, an island off Jonesborough, is its western limits. Eiiosburgli, Vt. Franklin co. Missisque, Tiout and other sti-cams give this town excellent water privileges, and manufacturing establishments flour- ish. The surface of the town is pleasantly diversified by hills and valleys, and well adapted for graz- ing. The products of the town are cattle, butter, cheese and wool. — First settled, 1797. Population, 1830, 1,560. Eiiosburgh lies 43 miles N. by E. from Montpelier, and 20 N. E. from St. Albans. Eppiiig, N. H., Rockingham co., lies 29 miles S. E. from Concord, 20 VV. from Ports- mouth, and 8 N. W. from E^xeter. It was formerlj' a part of Exeter, and was incorporated Feb. 12, 1741. The town contains 12,760 acres, being nearly 20 square miles. The soil, in general, is very good, and well suited to raise the various pro- ductions that grow in the state. Lamprey river, at the west, receives the Patuckaway, and runs through the whole length of the town. Another river runs through the N. part of the town, and from that cir- cumstance is called Noith river. By observations taken at 6 in the forenoon, at 1 and 9 o'clock in the alternoon, from Fahrenheit's ther- mometer placed in the open air, 13 feet Irom the ground, and where the sun does not shine on the ther- mometer, the annual average of heat for 10 years in succession, was 44 1-12°. During that period the annual average of I'ain that fell, was 2 feet 10 inches, and of snow,C feet 7 inches. William Ph^mee, one of its most distinguished and estimable citizens, resides in this town. A considerable portion of his life has been employed in the service of the people, in the several stations of representative and senator in the legislature, president of the senate, speaker of tbe house of representa- tives, representative and senator in congress, and for four years as chief- magistrate of the state. Popula- tion, 1830, 1,268. Epsom, Jf. H. Merrimack co. This town lies 12 miles E. from Concord. Popu- lation, 1830, 1,418. The surface of the town is generally uneven. The pi'incipal eminences are called M'Coy's, Fort, Nat's, and Notting- ham :nountains. The soil is in treu- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. cral good, and well adapted for graz- ing or grain. Great and Little Sun- cook arc the only streams deserving the name of rivers. Here arc three ponds, Chesnut, Round, and Odi- ornc's. Brown oxide, and suiptui- ret of iron are found, the lattermost frequently in its decomposed state. Varieties of quart/., feldspar and schorl are also found. An alluvial deposite has been liiscovorcd, which has been ascertained to lie terra de senna; it constitutes a very hand- some and durable paint for cabinet work. Epsom was granted May 18, 1727, to Theodore Atkinson and others. Like all other frontier towns, Ep-;om was expound, in its early settlement to the Indians. Maj. Andrew M'CLAKY,ana- tive of this town, fell at the battle of Breed's Hill, June 17, 1775. Like the iilusti-ious Roman, he left his plough on the news of the mas- sacre at Lexiri2:ton, and in the ac- tion when he lost his life displayed great coolness and bravery. JBrrol, N. H. Coos CO. This town is situated on the W. of Umbagog lake. It contains about .35,000 acres, of which 2,.'i00 are water. Several consider- able streams here unite with the Androscoggin. Errol was granted Feb. 28, 1774, to Timothy Rnggles and others. Population, 1S30, 82. It lies about 30 miles N. N. E. from Lancaster. Erviiig, Mass. Franklin co. This township re- mained unincorporated until April 17, 18.38. Previously it had been known by the name of " Erving's ving lies 95 miles N. N. W. from Boston, and 10 E. from Greenfield. Essex County, Vt. Guildhall is the county town. This county is bounded N. by Low- er Canada, W. by the counties of Orleans and Caledonia, and S. and E. by Connecticut river. Area 6'SO square miles. This is consid- ered the poorest county in the state ;, but although much of the land \s hilly and mountainous, there is con- siderable good soil, and a large por- tion of it is well adapted for giazing. There were, in 1836, about S.OOO sheep in the county, and a consid- erable number af beef cattle and horses were sent to market. The principal streams are the Nulhegan, which is exclusively in Essex coun- ty ; — the Passumpsic, Moose and Clyde. Incorporated, 1792. Pop- ulation, 1820,3,334; 1830,3,981. About 6 inhabitants to a square mile. Ksscx Count}', Mass. Salem, Ipsivich, and A^ewhury- port are the shire towns. This county is bounded N. W. by Rock- ingham county. New Hampshire, S. W. by Middlesex county, E. and N. E. by the Atlantic ocean, and vS. E. by Massachusetts bay. There is much good land in this county, but its surface is rocky and uneven. It has an extensive sea coast, in- dented with numerous bays, inlets, and capacious harbors. It is more densely populated than any county of its size in the United States. It has great wealth, and its commerce and fisheries are unrivalled by any section of country, of its extent, on the globe. Population, 1820, 73,930; 1830,82,887, and in 18.37, 93,689. This county comprises an area of 3fi0 square miles ; — the number of inhabitants to a square mile is 260. Essex county, although of stubborn soil, has many very delightful farina, and furnishes great quantities of hay and vegetables for market. It NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. has many beautiful ponds and com- manding elevations, and its sea- board is the delight of every be- holder. However fruitful the cit- izens may have rendei'ed the soil by their industry, this county is es- sentially a commercial and manu- facturing section of New England. The tonnage of the five districts, in 1837, was 85,933 tons. The amount of manufactures, for the j^ear end- ing April 1, 1837, was .•$10,21o,3()0 ; and the amount of the whale, cod and mackerel fisheries, amounted to $1,378,144. The principal riv- ers in Essex county are the Merri- mack and Shawshecn. Es'^ex coun- ty was incorporated in 1(>43, and has given birth to some of the most dis- tinouished merchants in the United States. Among many others may be mentioned William Gray, Israel Thorndike, and Wil- liam Parsons. Essex, Vt. Chittenden co. This town is fine- ly watered by Onion river on the S. and Brown's river, a branch of the Lamoille, on the N. it is also watered by other smaller streams. At Hubbell's falls, on Onion river, are admirable mill sites, at which are manufactures of some extent. The surface of the town is level ; a considerable portion of the soil is tiry and somewhat sandy, but pro- duces good crops of corn and rye. Along Onion river are some tracts of beautiful intervale. Essex was first settled in 1 783. It lies 31 miles N. W. from Montpe'ier, and 8 N. N. E. from Burlington. Popula- tion, 1830, l,6f>4. Essex, IflasSk Essex CO. This town lies at the head of Cliebacco river, runnino; in- to Squam bay, 13 miles N. E. from Boston, and 5 miles S. il. frem Ips- wich, from which it was taken in 1819. Many vessels of 50 to 120 Ions are built in this town, and ma- ny small vessels are employed in the coasting trade and the fisheries. — The manufactures of vessels, leath- er, boots, shoes, bar iron, barrels, coidage, pumps and blocks, in the year endinp; April 1, 1837, amount- ed to ifil()2,271. The tonnage em- ployed in the cod and mackerel fish- ery was 878 tons. Population, 1837, 1,402. Essex is a pleasant and flourishing town. Etna, Me. Penobscot co. This is an excel lent farming town with no import- ant streams. It lies 63 miles N. E. from Augusta, 17 W. from Bangor, and bounded by Dixmont on the S. Incorporated, 1820. Popula- tion, 1830, .362—1837, 626. Etna is fine wheat land : it produced, in 1837, 2,421 bushels. Eictcr, J^Ie. Penobscot co. Exeter is 65 miles N. N. E.from Augusta, and 25 S.W. from Bangor. It was incorporated in 1811. Population, 1830, 1,438— 1837, 1,920. At the "Four Cor- ners," in the noi-therly part of the town, is a pleasant village with con- siderable trade and some mills. The people of Exeter in 1837, with a soil not above mediocrity, proved without effort, by raising 12,053 bushels of wheat, that the state of Maine is abundantly able, by means within itself, to supply the whole family of Yankees with bread stuffs, and have some to spare to their western brethren. Exeter, ]V. H. Rockingham co. This beautiful town lies 40 miles S. E. by E. from Concord and 14 S. W. from Ports- mouth. The compact part of the town lies about the falls, which sep- arate the fresh from the tide water of a bi-anch of the Piscataqua, call- ed by the natives Swamscot, and now known by the name of Exeter river. Above the falls this stream assumes the name of Great river, to distinguish it from one of ita NEW ENULAM) GAZETTEER. smaller branches, called Little riv- er. Great river has its source in Chester, whence it runs through several towns before it meets the tide water in the centre of Exeter. On this river are many valuable mill privileges. The Exeter Cotton Manufactur- ing Company commenced opera- tions A|)ril 1, 1S30. Their princi- pal building is of brick, 175 feet by 45. They liave 5,000 spindles, em- ploy 212 girls and 40 men and boys. They manufacture annually about 1,400,000 yards of sheeting. They consume about 1,200 bales of cot- ton, 300 cords of wood and 22,500 pounds of potatoe starch annually. They have a steam engine, 40 horse power, to operate when the water power fails. This probably con- sumes annually aliout 150 cbaldrons of Sidney coal. The capital invest- ed in lands, buildings, machinery, &c. is about $210,000. A powder mill has been in ope- ration about two years, and will manufactuie from 130 to 150 tons of powder annually. The manufacture of potatoe starch was commenced in 1S24. The es- tablishment has been twice burnt, but is rebuilt with brick, and starch is now manufactured from wheat as well as from potatoes. The amount of sales of starch and gum is about ^10,000 annually. In the westerly part of the town is a paper mill, which manufactures l)aper to the value of ,^20,000 an- nually. The manufacture of hooks, blank books, &c. in Exeter, is very extensive. About ,<;100,000 value of shoes and boots are made annu- ally, and a large amount of leather. There are also establishments fo-i- the manufacture of morocco leath- er, carriages, of various kinds, brushes, tin and pottery wares. The soil of Exeter is in general good, though comprehending every variety, from that of the best quali- ty to the least productive. Like most towns in the state, it is essen- tially agricultural, and the improve- ment in the style of husbandry has been very great. The number of industrious and enterprising me- chanics, to whom Exeter is indebt- ed for her prosperity, is very rapid- ly increasing. See Res;iste7'. Philli])s' academy, in Exeter, was founded by the liberal donations of John Phillips, LL. D.,in 1781, who at his death, in 1795, bequeathed to the institution a large portion of his estate. Benjamik- Abbott, LL. D. has discharged the duties of priuci- l)al with distinguished ability for nmre than fifty years. The build- ing stands on a plain, near the cen- tre of the town, and is well provid- ed with accommodations for the different branches of instruction, and a large hall for declamation and the annual exhibitions. The settlement of Exeter com- menced in 1638, by John Wheel- wright and others, who formed them- selves into a body politic, chose their magistrates, and bound the people to obedience. Their laws were made in popular assemblies ; and the com- bination thus entered into subsisted about three years. From 1675 to 1712, Exeter, like most of the early settlements, suffered from the at- tacks of the Indians. Hon. Samuel Tenney, M. D. was an original member of the N. II. Medical Society, its vice pre- sident several years, and a mem- ber of congress in 1800 and 1804. Gen. Nathaniel, Peabody was an original member of the N. H. medical society; was a member of the old congress; a senator of the N. H. legislature in 1792 ; and speaker of the house in 1793. Hon. Nicholas Gilman was a member of the old congress, and a senator in congress from 1S05 to his death in 1814. Gen. N.\THANiEL FoLsoM was a memi)er of the old congress, and a valuable revolutionary officer. Hon. Jeremi.^h Smith, a na- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. live of Peterborough, was one of the first representatives to congress under the Federal government, was appointed Judge of S. C. of N. H. in 1802, was chief justice, and con- tinued such till 1809, when he was elected governor. He was appoint- ed chief justice of S. J. C. in 1813. Hon. JoHiv Taylor Gilmaiv, a descendant of one of the princi- pal settlers at Exeter, was an active supporter of the revolution ; a mem- ber of the old congress; filled at times the offices of representative and state treasurer; and for four- teen years, between 1794 and 1816, was governor of the state. Exeter has at all periods of its history possessed eminent and use- ful men ; and some of the first law- yers and jurists, antiquarians and scholars, have received their early education at its litei-ary institution. Population, 1830, 2,759. Kxeter, R. I. Washington co. This is an agri- cultural and manufacturing town, situated 24 miles S. W. from Provi- dence, and from its centre about 10 miles N. W. from South Kingston. The town is very large, being 12 by 5 miles. The surface is much di- versified by hills and valleys; the Hoil is a gravelly loam, and very productive of all the varieties com- mon to the climate. The products of the dairy are considerable. — Branches of Wood river give this town a good water power, which IS well improved by cotton mills and other manufactories. Exeter was incorporated in 1743. Population, 1830, 2,3S3. Fairfax, Vt. Franklin co. Bounded S. by La- moille river: 37 miles N. W. from Montpelier, and 12 S. E. from St. Albans. First settled, 1763. Pop- ulation, 1830, 1,729. By Parme- lee's and Stone's brooks. Brown's river, and the Lamoille, this town enjoys a good water power. The falls on Lamoille river, at this place, are singular and worthy of the tra- veller's notice. The land is gene- rally level and of a good quality. A considerable amount of agricul- tural products is sent to market, and about 6,000 sheep are reared. There are some manufactures at the falls. Fairfax is a place of considerable business. Fairfield, Me. Somerset co. This beautiful town- ship is located on the W. side of Kennebec river, and S. of Bloom- field. Fairfield is the most south- ern township in the county. It is watered by a small stream running into tiie Kennebec, and by a branch of Waterville river. This town is favored with a fine soil, and naviga- ble privileges to Augusta. It has a pleasant village, considerable trade, and, in 1837, produced 11,- 531 bushels of wheat, and a large quantity of wool. Population, 1837, 2,203. Distant from Augusta, 26 miles N., and from Norridgewock, 10 S. E. Incorporated, 178S. Fairiielil, Vt. Franklin co. This town was first settled in 1789. It is well watered by Smithtield pond, Fairfield river, Black creek, and branches of Mis- sisque river, and abounds in mill sites. Fairfield has a good strong soil and generally suitable for cul- tivation. It is a pleasant place, with some trade and considerable manu- factures. It produces good beef cattle and horses, and pastures about 7,000 sheep. Population, 18.30, 2,- 270. Fairfield lies 45 miles N. W. from Montpelier, 27 N. N. E. from Burlington, and is bounded W. by St. Albans. Fairfield Coiiiitj', Ct. Fairfield and Danhiiry are the shire towns. This county is bound- ed N. by Litchfield county, N. E. and E. by Housatonick river, S. E. and S. by Long Island Sound, and NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. W. by the state of New York. This is a tine farming section of coun- try, ao'reeably diversilied in regard to surface, with a strong fertile soil, and possesses great natural agricul- tural resources. Fairfield county extends nearly 40 miles en Long Island Sound, and enjoys great fa- cilities for navigation and the fish- eries. The beautiful Housatonick washes its nortlicastcrn boundary, and the Saugatuck, Norwalk, Mill, Pequonuck and other rivers afford it an araple water power. The man- ufacturing interests of the county are valuable and increasing. It contains many villages of superior beauty, and abounds in scenery of an interesting character. First set- tled, Ifi-Sy. Area, 630 square miles. Population, 1820, 42,739; 1830, 46,950 ; 75 inhabitants to a square mile. In 1837 there were in this county about 22,000 sheep. Fairfield, Ct. Shire town, Fairfield co. This ancient and patriotic town compris- es three parishes, Fairfield, the seat of Justice, Green's Farms and Greenfield. Fairfield lies 21 miles S. W. from New Haven, and 58 N. E. from New York. Population, 1^30, 4,246. Its Indian name was Unquowa. The surface of the town is undulating and very plea- sant. The soil is fertile, well cul- tivated and productive of wheat and rye, and a great variety of fruits and vegetables for New York mar- ket. Black Rock harbor is safe and easy of entrance for vessels draw- ing 19 feet of water at common tides. The tide usually rises in Long Isl- and Sound about 5 feet. There is but little water power in Fairfield, except that produced by the tide. The tonnage of Fairfield district, in 1837, was 11,988 tons. The prin- cipal business in navigation is the coasting trade. In the year lfi37, the tract of country which now forms the town of Fairfield was discovered by cap- 12* tain Mason and the troops of Mas- sachusetts and Connecticut under his command, when they pursued the Pequots to the swamp in this town, bearing the name of " Pequot Swamp." This is the spot made memorable by the great fight that took place there, between those troops and the Pequots, terminating in the almost entire destruction of that once powerful and warlike na- tion of savages. Tliere are no In- dian marks left by which this swamp can be traced as the place of their extermination, except a mound of earth in the centre of it, considered as a place of safety, evi- dently the effect of art, with a rais- ed foot path leading from it to the surrounding high grounds. In that expedition this region attracted the notice of adventurers. In the year 1639 a few families removed hither from Windsor, commenced a settle- ment, and, in a short period after- wards, were joined by several per- sons from Watcrtown and Concord, Mass. After Connecticut obtained her charter, the general assembly granted these people a patent, then including the towns now Reading and Weston. Fairfield is distinguished for its ardent attachment to American lib- erty, and for its sacrifices during the contest for independence. In 1779, when Tryon, a British governor, de- manded a surrender of the town, uniler a threat of its destruction, the answer of the inhabitants was, " We will never voluntarily lay down our arms till we have obtained tlie object for which they have been taken up. The village is in your power; plunder and burn it if you will, and take along with your plun- der the infamy of which it cannot be divested." " On the 7th July, 1779, gover- ernor Tryon, with a large and vengeful army, sailed from New Haven to Fairfield ; and the ne.xt morning disembarked upon tho beach. A few militia assembled to NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. oppose them ; and, in a desultory, scattered manner, fought with great intrepidity through most of the day. They killed some ; took several pri- soners ; and wounded more. But the expedition was so sudden and unexpected, that the efibrts, made in this manner, were necessarily fruitless. The town was plunder- ed ; a great part of the houses, to- gether with the two churches, tlie court house, jail, and school houses, were burnt. The barns had been just filled with wheat, and other produce. The inhabitants, there- fore, were turned out into the world, almost literally destitute. " While the town was in flames, a thunder storm overspread the hea- vens, just as night came on. The conflagration of near two hundred houses illumined the earth, the skirts of the clouds, and the waves of the Sound, with an union of gloom and grandeur, at once inex- pressibly awful and magnificent. The sky speedily was hung with the deepest darkness, wherever the clouds were not tinged by the mel- ancholy lustre of the flames. At intervals the lightnings blazed with a livid and terrible splendor. The thunder rolled above. Beneath, the roaring of the fires filled up the intervals with a deep and hollow sound, which seemed to be the pro- tracted murmur of the thunder, re- verberated from one end of heaven to the other. Add to this convul- sion of the elements, and these dreadful effects of vindictive and wanton devastation, the trembling of the earth ; the sharp sound of muskets, occasionally discharged; the groans, here and there, of the wounded and dying ; and the shouts of triumph: then place before your eyes crowds of the miserable suf- ferers, mingled with bodies of the militia, and from the neighboring hills taking a farewell prospect of their property and their dwellings, their happiness and their hopes; and you will form a just but imper- fect picture of the burning of Fair- field. It needed no great eflbrt of imagination to believe that the final day had arrived ; and that amid this funeral darkness, the morning would speedily dawn, to which no night would ever succeed; the graves yield up their inhabitants ; and the trial commence, at which was to be finally settled the destiny of man. " The next morning the troops re-embarked ; and, proceeding to Green's Farms, set fire to the church, and consumed it ; together with fifteen dwelling houses, elev- en barns, and several stores." Fairliaven, Vt. Rutland co. First settled, 1779. Population, 1830, 675. The soil is generally productive, particularly along the banks of the streams. It is watered by Castleton and Poult- ney rivers, the former of which re- ceives the waters of lake Bomba- zine, a large pond between Fair- haven and Castleton. On these streams are considerable falls, and mill sites. Fairhaven lies 16 miles W. from Rutland, and 9 N. E. from Whitehall, N. Y. Fairha-ven, Mass. Bristol CO. This pleasant town was taken from New Bedford, in 1812. It lies across Acushnett river, about a mile east of New Bedford. It is united to New Bod- ford by a bridge 3,960 feet in length, and is associated with it in many of its enterprises. First settled, 1764. Population, 1830, 3,034; 1837, 3,649. There are 37 vessels be- longing to this place engaged in the whale fishery, the tonnage of whicli is 11,564 tons. The value of whale oil and bone imported in- to this place the year ending April 1, 1837, was $322,272. The num- ber of hands employed in the fish- ery was 945. Capital invested, ,$957,000. The Acushnett produ- ces some water povver.on which are NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. two cotton mills, a paper mill, and other operations by water. The value of cotton goods, leather, boots, shoes, tin ware, vessels, salt, wood- en ware, chairs and cabinet ware nianui'actured,amoiuited to $40,3(j3. Fairlee, Vt. Orange co. A rough and moun- tainous township, with very little productive land, on the west side of Connecticut river, and connected with Orford, N. H. by a bridge across that river. First settled, 17G8. Population, 1830, 656. This town lies about 17 miles E. S. E. from Chelsea, and ol S. E. from Montpelier. Fairlee pond is two miles in length and about three fourths of a mile wide. It formerly had no fish. Some years ago a gentleman placed some pickerel in it, and the legisla- ture passed a law protecting the lish from molestation for two years. Since that time the pond has had an abundance of pickerel of good size and quality. Fall River, Zllass. Bristol CO. This town took the name of Troy, in 1803. It was for- merly a part of Freetown. In 1834, the name was changed to that of the river within its borders, at the union of which and Taunton river the town is very pleasantly situa- ted. This town is without a paral- lel on the continent of America, in regard to the union of hydraulic powers and navigable facilities. Fall river rises in Wattuppa ponds ; one of which is 11 miles in length and 1 in breadth. These ponds arc produced by perpetual springs, and lie about two miles east of the town. The descent of this river is 136 feet. The volume of water is con- stant, not liable to excess, and of sullicient power for the largest man- ufactories. The harbor on Taunton river is safe and easy of access, and of suf- ficient depth of water for the larg- est ships. Six ships from this port arc engaged in the whale fishery. It has also some merchant and coast- ing vessels. A marine rail-way was constructed here in 1834. This town has an abundance of fine granite, equal to the Quincy. A rail-road is in progress to meet the Boston and Providence, at Scekonk, 13 miles. The Pocasset Hotel, belonging to a company of gentlemen, is a splendid building, constructed in 1833. No house in the country af- fords better accommodations. A regular steamboat line is establish- ed between this place and Provi- dence: — distance, by water, 28 miles. The value of the manufactures of Fall River for the year ending April 1, 1837, amounted to $2,863,- 378, exclusive of large manufac- tures of machinery, iron hoops and rods, stoves, brass, copper, and tin wares. The ten cotton mills pro- duced 7,767,614 yards of cloth, val- ued at $668,028. The woolen mill produced 150,000 yards of cloth, valued at $180,000. The other ar- ticles manufactured consisted of leather, boots, shoes, iron castings, hats, nails, chairs, cabinet ware and vessels. The two print works printed twelve million yards of cal- ico. The number of hands em- ployed in all the factories was 1,819. The product of the whale fishery, the same year, was $68,700. Hands employed in the fishery, 120. Fall River lies 49 miles S. from Boston, 17 S. from Taunton, 14 W. from New Bedford, IS S. E. from Providence, R. I. and 190 E. from New York. Population, in 1820, 1,594 ; 1830, 4,159 ; 1837, 6,352.— The surface of Fall River is eleva- ted, rough and uneven, and consid- ered a healthy location for a manu- facturing town. Falmonth, Me. Cumberland CO. This is a pleas- ant town at the head of Casco bay, NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. 6 miles N. from Portland, and 47 S. W. from Augusta. It is watered by Presumscut river, and has a num- ber of vessels eniployeil in coasting and fishino;. The soil on the whole coast of Maine is not so fertile as in the interior parts of the slate, yet Falmouth comprises a considerable quantity of good land. The town was incorporated as early as 1718, and included the territory of the city of Portland until 178b". Pop- ulation, 1837, 2,0()8. Faljiioiitli, Mass. Barnstable co. A pleasant town on Vineyard Sound. There are belong- ing to this town 9 whale-ships, and about 40 sail in the coasting trade and fishery. Two streams aflbrd a wa- ter power, on which are two wool- en mills and other manufactories. There are about 40 ponds in this town, some salt and some fresh : — these, with the views of the islands in the Sound, form a variety of agreeable scenery. "Wood's Hole" harbor, at the S. W. extremity of the town, is a good harbor and much frequented by vessels, and by invalids in search of health. The value of oil imported into Falmouth, the year ending April 1, 1837, amounted to $146,600. The value of vessels, salt, woolen goods, boots, shoes and leather, manufactured the same yeai-, was $.58,657. Falmouth lies 71 miles S. E. by E. from Bos- ton, and 22 S. W. from Barnstable. " Woods' Hole " is 4 miles W. from the centre of the town ; and " Holmes' Hole" harbor, on Mar- tha's Vineyard, is 6 miles S. I*op- ulation, 1837, 2,580. Incorporated, 1686. Farmiiigton, Mc. County town of Franklin CO. This very beautiful town lies 29 miles N. W. from Augusta, and is water- ed by Sandy and Little Norridge- wock rivers. At the union of these rivers are excellent mill privileges, and a delightful village, the seat of justice. Farther up the Sandy, about 5 miles, is another beautiful village, the seat of a flourishing academy. The soil of Farmington being of a superior quality, the inhabitants are induced to devote much attention to agricultural pur- suits ; yet it is a place of some man- ufactures, and considerable trade in lumber and other merchandize. The agricultural products of Farm- ington are various and valuable, lu 1337 it produced 12,406 bushels of as good wheat as ever grew on the banks of the Ohio. Incorporat- ed, 1794. Population, 1837, 2,507. Farmington, N. H., Strafford co., was formerly a part of Rochester, but was incorporated a? a distinct town, Dec. 1, 1798. It lies 36 miles E. N. E. from Con- cord, and 17 N. W. by N. from Dover. The Cocheco meanders tiu-ough the N. E. part of the town. The Blue hills or Fi-ost mountains extend nearly through the town under dilTerent names. From the summit of the ridge in the S. E. part, ships may be seen by the na- ked eye off Portsmouth harbor ; while to the N. and W. the White Hills and the Monadnock, with hun- dreds of smaller mountains, meet the eye of the beholder. There is, not far from the village in Farm- ington, a rock supposed to weigh from CO to 80 tons, so exactly pois- ed on other rocks, that it may be caused to vibrate several inches by the hand. At the bank of the Co- checo, a little more than a mile S. E. fi-oni tlie principal village, is a place called the Dock, so named iVom the circumstance that the first settlers usually deposited their lum- ber here to be floated down the riv- er. This name is some times igno- rantly applied to the village. Hon. Aaron Wingate, for ma- ny years a member of the legisla- ture, a counsellor from 1797 to 1803, and for sometime chief-justice of the common pleas in Strafford, died NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. here in 1S22, aged 78 years. Pop- ulation, 1830, 1,465. Fariiiiugton, Ct. Hartford co. The first settlers of this (own were from Hartford, being emigrants from the neighbor- hood of Boston, Mass. They loca- ted themselves, in l()40,on the lux- uriant meadows of the Tunxis, or Farmington river, 10 iniles W. from Hartford. The township was pur- chased of the Tunxis Indians, a nu- merous and warlike tribe. At its incorporation, in 164.5, the township comprised fifteen miles square ; since which the pleasant towns of Southington, Berlin, Bristol, Bur- lington and Avon have been taken from the original territory of Farm- ington. Farmington river rises in the high lands in the N. part of Litchfieid count}', and after meandering de- lightfully tlirough tiie towns of New Hartford and Burlington, in a S. E. direction, it changes its course at Farnungton to the N., and pass- ing Avon and Simsbury to the bor- der of (iranby, it again turns ab- ruptly to the E. and meets the Con- necticut at AVindsor. This is a beautiful and fertilizing stream, and gives to the tov^"ns through which it passes, but particularly to Farm- ington, large tracts of rich alluvial meadows. Farmington village is a delight- ful place, on an elevated plain, sur- rounded by high hills. The street is about two miles in length, beau- tifully shaded, and contains, be- sides two cluirches and an acade- my, about 100 neat dwelling houses, some of which are tasteful and ele- gant. The Farmington canal pass- es through the village. Round Hill, in the meadows, near the village, is a natural curi- osity. It rises abruptly, to the height of 60 feet, is nearly circular in its form and covers 12 acres. It is thought that this hill was former- ly an island in the centre of a lake, which covered the whole of the present meadows. The population of Farmington has varied Init little from 2,000 within the last 30 years. Fayette, Mc. Kennebec co. This town con- tains sotnc beautiful ponds and is the source of a branch of Sandy river. It lies 17 nules W. N. W. from Augusta, and is bounded E. by Keadlield. Incorporated, 1795. — Population, 1837, 1,006. This is a good township of land ; it produced, in 1837, 4,433 bushels of wheat and some wool. Fayston, Vt. Washington co. Fayston is gen- erally too mountainous to be much cultivated. Along the borders of some of the branches of Mad river, which lise here, is some arable land. It lies 16 miles W. S. W. from Monipelier, and 25 .S. E. from Burlington. First settled, 179S. Population, 1830, 458. Ferdinaud, Vt. Essex CO. This town was char- tered in 1761, and contains 23 square miles; it is bounded S. E. by Maidstone. Paul's stream affords it a good water power, but the land is so mountainous, rocky, cold and swampy that people do not choose to cultivate it. Ferrislmrgli, Vt. Addison co. This township pos- sesses a good soil, an excellent wa- ter power by Otter, Little Otter, and Lewis creeks; and navigable privileges on the waters of t!ic out- lets of those creeks and lake Cham- plain. Basin liarlior in this town is deep and well protected from winds, and is a place of consider- able navigation and commercial im- portance. Across the lake to Essex, N. Y. is about two miles. Large crops of grain are produced here, and Ferrisburgli is noted for its fine butter, cheese, pork, and fat cattle. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. There are some woolen and other manufactures on its streams, and about 10,000 sheep graze in its pas- tures. Large quantities of lish are annually taken in the season of spring. First settled, 1784. Pop- ulation, 18.30, 1,822. Ferrisburgh lies 19 miles S. from Burlington, 16 N. W. from Middlebury, and 34 \V. from Montpelier. FitclibwrgU, Mass. Worcester co. This township was first granted by " the Great and General Court of His Majesty's Province of Massachusetts Bay, Nov. 4, 1719." The township thus granted included the territoiy of some of the neighboring towns. The town was incorporated in 1764. A large branch of the Nashua and two smaller streams pass through the town, and aflbrd it an extensive and constant water power. Over the Nashua, in the distance of two miles, are eleven dams for the ac- commodation of manufactories. This IS a very flourishing town, and ex- hibits in a striking manner the ef- fect of wafer power on the increase, wealth and respectability of many of our interior towns. There are many valuable mill sites at this place still unimproved. In the immediate vicinity of the principal village is an immense quarry of ex- cellent granite. This town lies 47 miles W. N. W. from Boston, 24 N. from Worcester, 30 W. by S. from Lowell, and 60 N. E. from Spring- field. There are in Fitchburgh 4 cotton, 3 woolen, and 2 paper mills. The manufactures for the year end- ing April 1, 1837, amounted to ^429,640. The manufactures con- sisted of cotton and woolen goods, paper, leather, boots, shoes, hats, scythes, bellows, palm-leaf hats, straw bonnets, chairs, tin and cab- inet wares. The surface of the town is hilly, but the soil is strong and productive. Population, 1830, 2,169; 1837,2,662. Fitz-william, W. H. Cheshire CO. Fitzwilliamlies 13 miles S. E. from Keene, 60 S. W. from Concord, and 65 N. W. from Boston. Camp and Priest brooks, running in a S. direction, are the principal streams. South pond, 230 rods long and of various width ; Sip's pond, 200 rods long and 100 wide ; Rockwood's pond and Col- lin's pond, are the only natural col- lections of water. The surface of this town is hilly : the soil is rocky. There is a considerable quantity of very productive and highly valua- ble meadow land. The soil is suit- able for grazing and tillage. Beef, pork, butter and cheese are the sta- ples. The farmers have of late turn- ed their attention to the raising of sheep. Near the centre of the town is a large hill, remarkable for the beautifully romantic prospect it af- fords. Gap mountain, which at a distance, appears to be a part of the Monadnock, and on which are found various kinds of stones suitable for whetstones, lies partly in Troy and partly in the N. E. part of Fitz- william. Population, 1830, 1,229. Fletcher, Vt. Franklin co. There are some small streams in this town and some manufacturing operations. The soil is broken, hard, and not very pro- ductive. It lies 22 miles N. N. E. from Montpelier, and about 18 S. E. from St. Albans. Population, 1830, 793. Floritla, Mass. Berkshire co. A mountainous township, 125 miles W. by N. from Boston, 27 N. N. E. from Lenox, and 7 E. from Adams. Florida is watered by Deerfield river, and ex- hibits some fine Alpine scenery. Population, 1837, 457. Inc. 1805. Poster, R. I. Providence CO. This is a large ag- ricultural and manufacturing town. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. finely watered by Hemlock brook, Ponongaasett and Moo^iip rivers. The surface of the town, in many parts, is rougli and uneven, but the soil is well calculated for the pro- ductions of the dairy. In the west- ern part are extensive forests of val- uable timber. There are a number of pleasant villages on the borders of the numerous streams, most of which are largely engaged in manu- facturing oi)ei'ations, particularly of cotton. Foster was lirst settled in 1717; incorporated in 1781, and named in compliment to the Hon. Theodore Foster, formerly a senator of the United States. It lies 15 miles W. by S. from Providence, and .50 E. from Hartford, Ct. Pop- ulation, 1830, 2,(j72. FoxborougU, 3Ias.s. Norfolk CO. This town was tak- en from Dorchester in 1778. It is watered by Rumtbrd and Cocasset rivers, branches of the Taunton, on which are mills of various kinds. The manufactures of Foxborough the year ending April 1, 1837, amounted to .^231,1:5(5: — they con- sisted of cotton and woolen goods, boots, shoes, leather, iron castings, .«traw bonnets, shovels, spades, hoes and forks. Foxboi-ough lies 24 miles S. S. W. from 15oston,15 S. from Dedham, and 18 E. N. E. from Providence, R. I. Population, 1830, 1,099; 1837,1,416. Foicroft, 3Ie. Piscataquis CO. This town is sit- uated on the north side of Piscata- quis river, opjjosite to Dover. The soil of the town is capable of pro- ducing all the varieties common to the climate. A part of Scbec pond lies in the north pa^jt of the town. In 1837, 5,574 bushels of wheat was raised. This is a fine section of country for the growth of beef and wool. Foxcroft was first settled in 1805, and was named in compliment to the Hon. Joseph E. Foxcroft. The village, with an academy, is very pleasantly located on the bank of the river, and has the appearance of prosperity. Foxcioft lies 77 miles N. N. E. from Augusta. — Population, 1830, 677; 1837,907. Incorporated, 1812. Fox Islauds, Me. See Vinalhacen. Framlngliain, Mass. Middlesex co. A large and flour- isliing manufacturing town, with a fine soil, and pleasant ponds: — 20 miles W. S. \V. from Boston, and 13 S. S. W. fi-om Concord. The ponds and Sudbury j-iver give this town a good water power. The value of the manufactures, the year ending April 1, 1837, amounted to .«!421,- 111. The articles manufactured were 268,640 yards of woolen cloth, valued at $311,800; boots, shoes, leather, hats, paper, (.$46,000) straw bonnets, chairs, tin and cabinet wares. Framingham is a delight- ful town, and approached by the rail-road with great ease. It has become an agreeable resort for fish- ing, fowling and other rural sports. Incorporated, 1700. Population, in 1830, 2,313 ; 1837, 2,881. Fraiicestotvn, N. H. Hillsborough co. It is 12 miles N. W. from Amherst, and 27 S. W. from Concord. The two S. branches of the Piscataquog rise in this town ; tlie largest branch from Pleasant pond, the other from Haunted pond. The former branch passes near the village in Francestown. Pleasant and Haunted ponds are considerable collections of water. The land is uneven, and in many parts stony, but the qualities of the soil arv warm and moist. There are sonu- small intervales, which are verv productive. About 7,000 sheep are kept here. The streams of wa- ter are not large, and almost everv mill is situated on rivers that take their rise from hills and ponds with- in the limits of the town. Tl>« NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. highest land is Crotched mountain, the summit of which is more than 600 feet above the level of the common in the centre of the town. One of the summits of this moun- tain is covered with wood ; the other is almost a solid ledg-e of rocks, af- fording a very extensive prospect to the S. W. There is in the easter- ly part of this town a very exten- sive and valuable quarry of free- stone. It is of a dark greyish col- or, and when polished strongly re- sembles the variegated marble of Vermont. In the N. part of this town black lead has been found of a good quality — and in the S. part some beautiful specimens of rock crystal. The common garnet is met with in various places. On the N. side of Haunted pond, there is a bar of 20 rods in length, 6 feet high, and .3 or 4 feet tbiough ; but for wliat purpose or by what means this barrier was raised, is a matter of conjecture only. The local sit- uation of this town is very eligible for business, being near the centre of the county, and on the great thoroughfare fiom Windsor to Bos- ton, and on a leading ro;id from the 8. W. part of the state to Concord. The village is very pleasant, neatly built and flourishing. Francestown derived its name from Frances, the wife of the last Gov. Wentworth. The first settlement was made about 1760, by John Carson, a Scotch- man. Mr. James Woodbury, who died ?tlarch 3, 1823, at the age of 85, closed his life in this town. He was an active soldier in the old French war, and engaged by the side of Gen. Wolfe, when he was killed at the memoral)le siege of Quebec. He was one of the truly invincible rangers under the im- mortal Stark, and discharged every duly in a prompt and courageous manner. Population, 1S30, 1-541. Franconia, Ti. II. Grafton co. It is 28 miles N. E. from Haverhill, and 74 N. from Concord. A large proportion of this town is mountainous. Its streams are branches of the Lower Amonoosuck river, and rise on the mountainous tracts to the east. Here are several ponds : one of which, called Ferriu's pond, is the source of the middle branch of Pem- igewasset river. The mountains adjoining the Notch, through which the road passes, are most conspicu- ous. These are called Mounts La Fayette and Jackson. On the lat- ter is the celebrated " Pi-ofile," or " Old Man of the Mountain." It is situated on a peak of solid rock, 1,000 feet in height and almost per- pendicular. On this peak, nature, in her wildest mood, exhibits thf profile of the human face, of which eveiy feature is delineated with wonderful exactness. The Fran- conia mountain pass presents to the traveller some of the wildest scene- ry in our counti-y, and must ever re- main a great thoroughfare between the upper waters of the Connecti- cut river and the ocean. There are two iron establish- ments in this town. The lower works are situated on the S. branch of Amonoosuck river, and are own- ed by the Nev/ Hampshire Iron Factory Company; incorporated, Dec. IS, 1S05, which was composed principally of gentlemen in Salem and Boston. Their establishment is very extensive, consisting of a blast furnace, erected in 1808, an air furnace, a forge and trip-hani- mer shop. There are also near, or connected with the establishment, grain and saw-rnills, a large store, several shops, and other buildings, which make a small village. The ore is obtained from a mountain in the east part of Li.sbou,N. H., three miles from the furnace, and is con- sidered the richest in the United States, yielding from 58 to 63 per cent; and the mine is said lobe in- exhaustible. First settled, 1774. Population.lSSO, 417. NEW EXGLAi\D GAZETTEER. Frankfort, Me. Waldo CO. This excellent town- ship of land is situated on the W. side of Penobscot liver, 57 miles N. E. by E. fi-om Augusta, 12 S. from Bangor, and 18 N. from Bel- fast. It is well watered by Marsh river, on which are two beautiful villages. The largest village is near the Penobscot, on ]Marsh bnv. The other village is at the head of tlie tide, on JSlarsh river, about 4 miles S. W. from the Penobscot, and is accommodated with exrellent mill privileges. The location of Frankt'ort is exceeding favorable to the navigation and trade of Penob- scot river, particularly so in the winter season, as it is the highest point on the river to which vessels can ascend during the icy season of the year. The prospects of Frank- fort in its commercial and agricul- tural pursuits are very promising : indeed it bids fair to become an im- portant depot on one of our largest rivers. Among the agricultural products of this town, in 1S.37, was 9,330 bushels of wheat. Popula- tion, 1830, 2,487 ; 1837,3,223. In- coiporated, 17Sf). Fi-ankliii County, Me. Farminston is tlie county town. This county was incorporated March 20, 1838. The following is the legislative descriplionof its territory: " The towns of New Sharon, Chesterville, Wilton, Temple and Farniington in the county of Ken- nebec ; and Jay, Carthage, M'eld, Berlin, Madrid, townships number- td six, letter E. and D. in the coun- ty of Oxford, thence extending northerly from the noith-wcst cor- ner of letter D. on the line be- twixt townsliips numbered three and four, through the several rang- es of townships to Canada line, so as to include three tiers of town- ships west of the west line of the Bingham Purchase in said county J3 of Oxford ; and Industry, New Vine- yard, .Strong, Avon, Phillips, Free- man, Salem, Kinglield, townships numbered four in the first range west of Kingfield, three and four in the second range, and the south half of township numbered four in the third range of the Bingham Purchase, in tlie county of Somer- set, be and hereby are, &.c." This county is therefore bounded N. by Lower Canada, E. by the county of Somerset, S. by Kenne- bec and Oxfoiii counties, and W. by Oxford county. This county has no navigable waters, but is inter- spersed with numerous ponds and mill streams. Its surface is gen- erally undulating, with some moun- tainous tracts. Its soil, for the most part, is excellent, and cannot I'ail in remunerating the industrious far- mer by its products of wheat, beef, and wool. Franklin County, Vt. -S7. Albans, county town. This county is bounded N. by Lower Canada, E. by Orleans county, S. E. and S. by Lamoille county, S. by Chittenden county, and W. ])y lake Champlain. Incorporated, 1792. Population, 1830, 22,034. The Missisque river passes through the northern part of the county, and the Lamoille its most southern section. The principal part of the trade of this county goes to Canada, by lake Champlain, which aflbrds it many facilities in transportation. Although the surface is somewhat broken and in some parts mountain- ous, yet the soil is productive of wheat and grass. Many cattle are annually taken from this county to market, and in 1837 it had 63,000 sheep. In this county, marble and iron ore of excellent qualities arc found. Franklin County, Mass. Grec}ifiigus- ta. Freeport was taken from North Yarmouth in 1789, and was former- ly called the Harraseeket Settle- ment, from the name of the river that passes through it. This is a place of some navigation, ship build- ing, and agricultural enterprize. Population, 1837, 2,659. Freetotvn, Mass. Bristol CO. This town lies on the E. side of Taunton river, 8 miles S. from Taunton, 12 N. by W. from New Bedford, and 40 S. from Bos- ton. First settled, 1659. Incor- porated, 1683. Population, 1837, 1,779. It is watered by a branch of Taunton river, and has some nav- igation. The manufactures of Free- town consist of iron castings, cut- lery, axes, shovels, spades, hoes, forks, nails, leather, boots, shoes, vessels, chairs, and cabinet ware. Total amount, in one year, ,$43,820. The soil is light, and keeps, among other cattle, about 1,000 sheep. Freucli River. This river rises in Leicester, Mass. It passes through Auburn, Oxford, and Dudley ; it then enters the state of Connecticut and joins the Quin- ebaugh at Thompson. Some French protestants settled on this river in 1685. Frenclimaii's Bay, Me. This important bay, in the county of Hancock, containing a number of excellent harbors and beautiful islands, is bounded W. by Baker's island, one of the Cranberry islands, and E. by a peninsula in Goldsbo- rough, on the AV. side of which is Musquito harbor. The distance across this bay, from Baker's island to Goldsborough point, is 10 miles. This bay juts in from the Atlantic ocean about 20 miles, and is envi- roned by the towns of Eden, Tren- ton, Hancock, Franklin, Sullivan, and Goldsborough, and is the recip- ient of many valuable streams. It is easy of access, never obstructed by ice, and is one of the best retreats in a storm on the American coast. Friendshii>, Me. Lincoln co. This is an Atlantic town, containing several islands, at the head of Muscongus bay. It was formerly called the Medimcook NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Settlement, a.s]ym<^hetween a riv- er of that name and the Muscongus. Friendship is a place of consider- able navigation and trade. It lies 48 miles S. E. from Augusta, and 10 miles S. W. from Warren. Pop- ulation, 1837, 662. Pryeburgli, Me. Oxford CO. This interesting and pleasant town lies on both sides of Saco river, on the line of New Hampshire. The uplands are not remarkable for their fertility, but the intervales on the Saco are of the choicest kind. Fryeburgh is only 6 miles square, yet the Saco here is so fantastic in its course that it winds itself between 30 and 40 miles with- in its limits. This town, the Indian Pequawket, lies 75 miles W. N. W. from Augusta, 47 N. W. from Port- land, and 28 S. W. from Paris.— Population, 1837, 1,444. Incorpo- rated, 1777. The principal village is situated on a plain, surrounded by lofty hills, and watered by the Sa- co: it bears evident marks of anti- quity, and has an academy " with a cabinet of rare curiosities, col- lected with much diligence." — Love well's pond lies a short distance from the village. This beautiful sheet of water, now the resort for innocent aniusements, was once the scene of bloody combat, and of the overthrow of a powerful Indian tribe. The story of LovewelVs Fight has been told thousands of times, hut as it is identitied with the tov.n of which we treat, we quote a brief notice of the event from the North American Review. " It was on the 18th of April, 1725, that Capt. John Lovewell, of Dunstable, Massachusetts, with 34 men, fought a famous Indian chief, named Paugus, atthe head of about 80 savages, near the shores of a pond in Pequawket. Lovewcll's men were determined to conquer or die, although out-numbered by the Indians more than one half. They fought till Lovewell and Pau- gus were killed, and all Lovewell's men but nine were either killed or wounded dangerously. The sava- ges having lost, as was supposed, 60 of their number out of 80, and being convinced of the fierce and determined resolution of their foes, at length retreated and left them masters of the ground. The scene of this desperate and bloody action, which took place in the town which is now called Fryeburgh, is often visited with interest to this day, and the names of those who fell, and those who survived, are yet re- peated with emotions of grateful exultation." Fiindy, Bay of. This hay washes a part of the eastern shore of Maine ; and as it is an important channel of com- merce between the United States and the British provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, it may be useful to notice it. This large and important bay sets up N. E. round cape Sable, tlie most south- ern point of Nova Scotia, in N. lat. 43° 24', W. Ion. 65° 39', and cross- es to the shore of Maine a little W. of Frenchman's bay. From the mouth of Frenchman's bay to Cape Sable is about 150 miles ; from Eastport to St. John's, N. B. is 60 miles ; from St. John's to Annapo- lis, in a bay of that name, on the Nova Scotia side, is 40 miles; from thence to Halifax, by land, is 80 miles. From Eastport direct to Annapolis, across the bay, is about 70 miles. The Bay of Fundy is divided near its head by cape Chig- necto. The N. W. part is called Chignecto bay; the S. E. part the Basin of Mines. From Eastport to Cumberland, at the head of Chig- necto bay, is about 170 miles; to Windsor, at the head of the Basin of Mines, is about 150. From Windsor to Halifax in N. lat. 44° 39' 20", W. Ion. 63° 36' 40", is 45 miles. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEKR. The commerce on this bay with our friends and neighbors, the Eng- lish, is very considerable. While they receive bread stulFs and other productions of our soil, we are in- debted to them for vast quantities of grindstones and gypsum to sharp- en our tools and renovate the soil. The gypsum is principally from the Basin of Mines; — it lies embedded in elevated masses along the shores of the bay ; — it is easily quarried and taken on board of vessels bv the sides of the cliti's. This gypsum is of a tine quality, and it is doubtful whether any has been discovered in our own country as good. The grindstones from Cumber- land, or Chignecto bay, arc every where celebrated. The source is inexhaustible, and the manufacture immense. The tides in the bay of Fundy are supposed to rise to a greater height than in any other part of the world. Their elevation increases as you ascend the bay. At East- port they rise 25 feet ; at St. John's 30 ; at Cape Split, 5.3 ; at Windsor, CO, and at Cumberland, at the head of Chignecto bay, they rise to the enormous height of 71 feet. These tides announce themselves some time before their approach, by a sound resembling that of a rushing wind in a forest : they dash against the shore with a reddish hue, the color of the clay bottom over which they pass, with frightful violence ; at first, to the height of from 8 to 10 feet, overwhelming all within their reach. There are but few islands with- in this bay. Grand Mcnan, and a clusterof small islands round it, off West Quoddy Head, and Campo Bcl- lo, near Eastport, are the pi-incipal. They belong to the British. A small island about 5 miles off the S. W. part of cape Chignecto, call- ed Isle de Havt, contains beauti- ful specimens of asbestos. The rapidity of the tides within this bay, the fogs which frequently prevail, and the absence of good harbors between Eastport and St. John's, and from St. John's to cape Chignecto, render the navigation difficult and often dangerous. The harbor of St. John's is easy of access, safe, and of sufficient ex- panse for a large fleet of any draught of water. The city of St. John's contains about 15,000 inhabitant*. It is located at the outlet of the great river whose name it bears, in N. lat. 45^ 20', W. Ion. 66='. This city is a very flourishing place. It is the largest resource for timber and lumber that Queen Victoria has in her possessions. St. John's river rises in Canada and the northern part of Maine. It receives the Madawaska, St. Fran- cis, Aroostook, and many other val- uable tributaries, from Maine; it waters a large portion of its north- ern territory, and bears manj' valu- able productions of that state to its mouth. " This river is 350 miles long ; the tide flows up about 80 miles ; it is navigable for boats 200 miles, and for sloops of 50 tons 80 miles. This river and its branches water a large tract of excellent country. About 30 miles from its mouth commences a fine level coun- try of rich meadow lands, well cloth- ed with timber. The river furnish- es a great quantity of salmon, bass and sturgeon. About a mile above the city of St. John's is the only entrance into this river. It is about SO or 100 yards wide, 400 yards long, called the falls of the river. It being narrow, and a ridge of rocks running across the bottom of the channel, on which there are not above 17 feet of water, it is not suf- ficiently spacious to discharge the fresh waters of the river above. The common tides here rising above 20 feet, the waters of the river at low water are about 20 feet higher than the waters of the sea ; at high water the waters of the sea are about 5 feet higher than those of the river : so that at every tide there NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. are two falls, one outwards and one inwards. The only time of pass- ing with safety is when the waters of the river and of the sea are lev- el, which is twice in a tide, and continues only about 20 minutes each time." Fredcrickton, tlie capital of New Brunswick, lies on this river, 80 miles from its mouth, in N. lat. 46° S', W. Ion. 66° 45'. Gardiner, Me. Kennebec co. Gardiner was for- merly a part of Pittston, and lies on the W. side of Kennebec river, 6 miles S. fiom Augusta, and 4 be- low Hallowell. It is located at the head of large navigation, and in re- gard to its commerce, manufactur- ing and agricultural interests, it is considered one of the most flourish- ing towns in Maine. It was incor- poi-ated in 1S03, and was named in honor of Dr. Sylvester Gardi- NKR, one of the proprietors of the old Plymouth patent. The Cobbesseconfee tvaters meet the Kennebec river at this place, and produce a water power of great usefulness and extent. Here are mills for sawing lumber of all di- mensions, and here are vessels of from SO to 120 tons burthen, lading it for transportation to its various markets. Here are also manufac- tures of various other kinds. This town, Hallowell and Augusta, lie in a most favored section of our coun- ti-y. What we have said in regard to the location of Hallowell and Augusta, may be applied to Gard- iner. These towns are on the same side of a noble river, united by the same interests and feelings, and will soon be connected by a rnil-road passing between them. The vil- lage of Gardiner is very pleasant. The business part lying on the riv- er, is full of activity and enterprise. The buildings, on a gentle rise from the river, are bea\itifully located. They command a delightful pros- pect, and some of them are of superior architecture. Population, 1837, 3,709. The present popula- tion is about 5,000. Gardner, Mass. Worcester co. Otter river, a con- siderable stream, a branch of Mil- ler's river, rises partly in this town, and affords good mill seats. On this river is some good intervale land ; the high lands are rough, but good for grazing. The value of palm- leaf hats, straw bonnets, chairs, cabinet and wooden wares, leath- er, boots and shoes, manufactured in one year, amounted to $132,- 272. The cabinet ware and chairs amounted to $109,000. Gardner was incorporated in 1785, and lies 54 miles N. W. by W. from P.oston, and 23 N. W. by N. from Worcesj- ter. Population, 1837, 1,276. A. church was fonned here in 1786, and the Rev. Jonathan Osgood was ordained. He died in 1825, af- ter sustaining the vocations of pas- tor, physician and school master, 30 years. Garland, Me. Penobscot co. Garland is water- ed by some of the head branches of Kenduskeag stream. It lies 74 miles N. E. hy N. from Augusta, and 27 N. W. from Bangor. Incor- porated, 1811. Population, 183G, 621 ; 1837, 932. This is an excel- lent township of land ; it produced, in 1837, 6,521 bushels of wheat. Gay Head, Mass. See Chihnark. Georgetown, Me. Lincoln co. Georgetown is con- stituted of two considerable islands lying at the mouth of Kennebec river. These islands have Kenne- bec river on the W., Sheepscot riv- er on the E., and separated from Woolwich on the N. by a naviga- ble passage between those two riv- ers. It is a little below Bath, on the opposite shore. This is one NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. of the mo«t ancient settlements in Maine. The town was incorporat- ed in 1716. Population, 1837, 1,3.55. It lies 46 miles S. from Augusta, and 12 S. W. from Wiscasset. This town has excellent harbors, and pos- .sesses peculiar privileges lor all oc- cupations connected with naviga- tion and the fisheries. Georgeto'wn, Mass. Essex CO. Georgetown was the W. part of Rowley. It was called JVew Rowley for some years, un- til its incorporation as a separate town, in 18.38. Georgetown is wa- tered by a branch of Parker's riv- er, and is almost entirely engaged in manufactures and the mechanic arts. It is a pleasant town and high- ly flourishing. Population, about 1,500. It lies 30 miles N. from Boston, and 10 S. "SV. from Newbu- ryport. The people of Georgetown are probably more extensively en- gaged in the manufacture of boots and shoes than at any other place, of its population, in America. The value of boots and shoes manufac- tured, and leather tanned, is said to exceed $500,000 annually. Georgia, "Vt. Franklin co. Population, fSSO, 1,897. Georgia lies 40 miles N. W. from Montpelier, and 8 S. from St. Albans. First settled, 1784. The soil of Georgia is various but generally fertile. It feeds about 11,000 sheep. The Lamoille pass- es through the S. E. corner of the town, which, with other streams, give it an ample water power. This is a place of considerable trade and some manufactures. Over Stone Bridge brook is a stone bridge, — a curious piece of nature's mechan- ism. Georgia is washed on the W. by Lake Champlain : the village is pleasantly located, and commands some very pretty lake and moun- tain scenery. Gilead, Me. Oxford CO. Between two moun- tains on both sides of Androscoggia river. There is some good land on the river, but the chief part of the township is fit only for grazing. The expense of transportation of fuel down the mountains, in a slip- pery time, is very trifling. Gilead lies 71 miles W. from Augusta, and 25 S. S. \V. from Paris. Incorpora- ted, 1804. Population, 1837, 374. Gilford, N. II., One of the four shire towns for Stratford county, is situated on the S. side of W'innepisiogee lake. This town lies 26 miles N. N. E. from Concord, and 48 N. W. from Portsmouth. The soil is generally productive. There are two ponds in this town, Little and Chattlebo- rough. Gunstock and Mile's rivers, rising in Suncook mountains and flowing N. into the lake, are the principal streams. The N. source of the Suncook river is on the S. of these mountains, which extend in a lofty pile over the E. part of the town, from Gilnianton line near- ly to the lake. There are two isl- ands in the lake, belonging to Gil- ford, one of which has been con- nected to the main land by abridge 30 rods in length. This town, which was formerly a part of Gil- manton, was incorporated June 16, 1812. It was settled in 1778.— Here are manufactories of cotton and paper, besides other useful mills and machinery. Four bridges across the Winnepisiogee connect the town with Meredith. The vil- lage at this place is thriving and pleasant. Population, 1830, 1,872. Gill, Mass. Franklin co. A mountainous township on the W. side of Con- necticut river ; 86 miles W. by N. from Boston, ..nd 5 E. N. E. from Greenfield. Gill contains a fine NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. tract of rich intervale on a bend of the Connecticut. Tlie people are generally engaged in farming. The town is divided from Greenfield by Fall river. It has some manu- factures of combs, wooden ware, leather and palm-leaf hats. The fleeces of 1,809 sheep weighed 5,627 pounds, and were valued, in 1837, at .$2,214. Population, 1837, 809. Taken from Deerlield in 1793. Gilniaiitou, N. II. One of the shire towns in Straf- ford county, 17 miles N. N. E. from Concord, and 45 W. N. W. from Portsmouth. It is bound N. W. by Winnepisiogee bay and river. Pop- ulation, 1830, 3,816. Beside the Winnepisiogee, this town is water- ed by the Suncook and Soucook rivers, which have their sources in Gilmanton. The Suncook rises in a pond near the fop of one of the Suncook mountains, elevated 900 feet above its base. The water of this pond falls into another at the foot of the mountain, of 1 mile in length and 1-2 mile wide. Passing from this, it falls into another, cov- ering about 500 acres, from which it meanders through the town, re- ceiving several streams in its course. The Soucook rises from Loon, Rocky and Shellcamp ponds, in the S. part of the town. This town is very hilly and rocky. The soil is hard, but fruitful, when properly cultivated. The geology of this town presents many varieties. — There are several springs in Gilman- ton, termed mineral ; one of which has proved efficacious in cutaneous and bilious affections. This town was granted May 20, 1727, to 24 persons of the name of Gilman, and 152 others. In Dec. 1761, Benja- min and John Mudgett, with their families, settled here. Dorothy Weed, the first child, was born here Oct. 13, 1762. An academy was founded here in 1764. Its produc- tive funds are about $11,000. The theological seminary at this place is connected with the academy, and is a flourishing institution. Gilsum, ]V. H. A small township in Cheshire county, situated about 10 miles E. from the Connecticut. The' soil is, in many parts, fertile, and produces good ci-ops of grass and grain. Ashuelot river runs through this town and affords a good supply of water for mills, which is improv- ed for cotton and other manufac- tures. Gilsum was granted July 13, 1763, to Messrs. Gilbert, Sum- ner and others. From the com- bination of the first syllables of the names of these men, it derives the name of Gil-sum. The first settle- ment was made in 1764. Gilsum lies 55 miles S. W. by W. from Concord, and about 9 N. from Keene. Population, 1830, 642. Glcnbiirii, 3Ie. Penobscot CO. This territory was called Dutton, from 1822 to 1837. It lies 76 miles N. E. from Augusta, and 10 N. N. W. from Bangor. Population, 1837, 717. Glenburn is situated on both sides of the great bend of Kenduskeag stream. It has a water power, but the inliabitants are mostly farmers. The soil is good, and considerable wheat is raised. Glastenljury, Vt. Bennington co. This is a town- ship of 40 square miles of moun- tainous land, more fit for the resi- dence of wild beasts than human beings. It is 9 miles N. E. from Bennington. Population, 1S30, 59. Glasteiibiiry, Ct. Hartford co. This town, pre- vious to its incorporation in 1690, had been attached to Wethersfield. It lies on the east side of Connecti- cut river opposite to Wethersfield, 8 miles S. from Hartford. It has NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. some fine land on Connecticut riv- er. The face of the ujjlands is rousih but generally productive. About a mile and a half from Connecticut river, and 8 miles from Chatham freestone quarry, in a romantic spot between the hills, is a beautiful vil- la2;e connected with the Hartford Manufacturing Company. Roar- ing brook, at this place, passes through a very narrow delile,aflbrd- ing a great and constant water pow- er. Cotton is manufactured here to a considerable extent, and the village is very flourishing. From the hills around this village a great variety of deli;ihlful scenery is ob- servable. Population, 1S30, 2,9S0. " In the eastein part of the town there is a pond of about a mile in circumference, called ' Diamond pond,' from the circumstance of there being small pebbles or stones around its margin, having a pe- culiar brilliancy. Near the cen- tre of the town there is a mineral spring, which, though it has acquir- ed no celebrity abroad, has been thought by men of science who have examined it, to possess valua- ble medicinal (lualitics ; and for more than one hundred years has been known by the name of the ♦ Pool of Neipseic' " Gloucester, Mass. Essex CO. This is a maritime township, comprising the whole of Cape Ann, and celebrated for the enterprise of its peo])le in the fish- eries and commercial pursuits. It is one of the oldest fishing estab- lishments in the state. This cape extends about 8 nules into the sea, and forms the northern boundary of Massachusetts bay. Its harbor is capacious, easy of access at any season, and of sufficient water for ships of great burthen. Gloucester harbor and tl»e chief settlements are on the south side. Sandy and Squam bays lie on the north side, about 4 miles from the soiith har- bor, and aflbrd harbois for small vessels. The liglifs on Thatcher's island bear about northeast (i miles from East Point, the eastern boun- dary of (iloucester harbor. As early as 179 1 the exports from this place, in one year, amounted to ^230,000. Here are immense quar- ries of light and grayish granite, which is split with great ease, and in large regularly formed blocks. This stone is of a fine grain, is easi- ly di-essed, and can be put on board of vessels with little expense. The demand for this stone is rapidly in- creasing, and the quarrying, ham- mering, and transporting it gives eniployment to many men and ves- sels. The canal across the neck of the cape has failed of that suc- cess which was anticipated. The manufacture of palm-leaf liats, boots, shoes, hats, vessels, chairs, tin and cabinet wares, in the year ending April 1, 1837, amounted to ,*<46,726. In that year there were 221 vessels e/nployed in the cod and mackerel fishery, the tonnage of which was 9,824 tons. They took 55,181 quintals of cod fish, and 43,934 barrels of mackerel : 113,- 7fi0 bushels of salt was used, and 1,580 hands employed. The value of the cod and mackerel taken was .$522,082. There are belonging to this place a great number of vessels engaged in foreign and domestic trade. The total tonnage of the district in 1837 was 18,802 tons. This town lies in N. lat. 42° 36', W. Ion. 70° 40', and was incorpora- ted in 1039. Population, 1820, 6,384; 1830,7,513; 1837, 8,822. It lies 29 miles N. E. from Boston, and 16 N. E. by E. from Salem. Gloucester is a very pleasant town, and a delightful retreat in summer 'months, Gloucester, R. I. Providence co. This large and j-espectable manufacturing town lies 16 miles W. S. W. from Provi- dence, and 50 E. by N. from Hart- ford. First settled, 1700. Incorpo- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTKER. rated, 1730. The surface of the town is somewhat broken by hills, but the soil is well adapted to agri- cultural purposes, particularly to grazing. Gloucester furnishes large supplies of various products lor market. There are fine forests in several parts of the town, and large quantities of ship and other timber are conveyed to Providence and other places. The Chepachet and gome smaller streams give Glou- cester a good water power. Man- ufacturing establishments are very numerous, and Gloucester yields to but few towns in New England in the value of this branch of indus- try, particularly in the manufac- ture of cotton. Population, 1S30, 2.522. Glover, Vt. Orleans co. Glover was first set- tled in 1797. It lies 33 miles N. N. E. from Montpelier, and 12 S. by E. from Irasburgh. The town is hilly, and the soil is more fit for grazing than tillage. There are about 3,200 sheep in the town. There are in the town branches of Barton's, Passumpsic, Lamoille, and Black rivers, and several ponds. On these streams are some manu- factures, but none of any great importance. Population, 1830,902. We copy an account of the run- ning off of Long Pond, from Thompson's valuable Gazetteer of Vermont. "Long pond was situated partly in this township and partly in Greensborough. This pond was one and a half miles long, and about half a mile wide, and discharged its waters to the south, foi-ming one of the head branches of the river La- moille. On the 6th of June, 1810, about 60 persons went to this pond ibr the purpose of opening an out- let to the north into Bai-ton river, that the mills, on that stream, might receive an occasional supply of wa- ter. A small channel was excava- ted, and the water commenced run- ning in a northerly direction. It happened that the northern barrier of the pond consisted entirely of quicksand, except an encrusting of clay next the water. The sand was immediately removed by the current, and a large channel formed. The basin formed by the encrusting of clay was incapable of sustaining the incumbent mass of waters, and it brake. The whole pond imme- diately took a northerly course, and, in fifteen minutes from this time, its bed was left entirely bare. It was discharged so suddenly that the country below was instantly inun- dated. The deluge advanced like a wall of waters, 60 or 70 feet in height, and 20 rods in width, level- ing the forests and the hills, and filling up the valleys, and sweeping off mills, houses, barns, fences, cat- tle, horses and sheep as it passed, for the distance of more than ten miles, and barely giving the inhab- itants sufficient notice of its ap- proach to escape with their lives in- to the mountains. A rock, suppos- ed to weigh more than 100 tons, was removed half a mile from its bed. The waters removed so rap- idly as to reach Memphremagog lake, distance 27 miles, in about six hours from the time they left the pond. Nothing now remains of the pond but its bed, a part of which is cultivated and a part over- grown with bushes and wild grass, with a small brook running through it, which is now the head branch of Barton river. The channel through which the waters escaped is 127 feet in depth and several rods in width. A pond, some dis- tance below, w'as, at first, entirely filled with sand, which has since settled down, and it is now about one half its former dimensions. Marks of the ravages are still to be seen through nearly the whole course of Barton river." Goflstown, N. H., Hillsborough co., is 12 miles N. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. by E. from Anilicrst, and 16 S. from Concord. Piscataquog river, the tributary branches of which unite near the W. line of the town, runs through its centre in an E. direc- tion, and falls into Merrimack riv- er at Piscataquog village in Bed- ford. Large quantities of lunibcr are annually floated down this riv- er to the ^Ierrinlack, and most of the mill privileges are derived from tiiis vahiai)le stream. There are two considerable elevations in the S. W. part of the town, which ob- tained from the Indians the name of Uii-caa-riit-iiuc. On the rivers are considerable tracts of valuable intervale. Back from the rivers commence extensive plains, easy of cultivation, and producing abun- dant crops of Indian corn and rye. From these plains the land rises on each side of Piscataquog river into large swells. In this town there is an extensive cotton factorj'. The GolTstown Manufacturing Com- pany are erecting a large woolen factory at a Nourishing village, in the \V. part of the town, on Piscat- aquog river. Population, 1830, 2,213. Dr. Jox.VTHAX Gove, a man distinguished for his urbanity, his talents and professional skill, resid- ed in this town. He was one of the oldest practitioners of medicine in the county. He was many years an active member of the legisla- ture. Goldsboroii^Ii, 31c. Hancock co. This is a large township, on the Atlantic ocean, containing a number of excellent harbors, and nearly surroundeil by water. It is admirably located for all the various pursuits in naviga- tion. Goldsborougli harbor, on the E. side of the town, is capacious and easy of approach by almost any wind. Frenchman's bay extends on the W. side of the town and af- fords it many commercial advanta- ges. It lies 99 miles E. from Au- gusta, 27 S. E. from Ellsworth, and is bounded by Sullivan on the N. Incorporated, 1789. Population, 1830, SSO; 1837, 1,047. Gorliam, Me. Cumberland co. This town i-i watered on the N. E. side by Pre- sumpscut river, and the Cumberland and Oxford canal. It is 9 miles W. N. W. from Portland, and C3 S. W. trom Augusta. Gorham was first settled in 1736, bj- John Phinney and others from Barnstable county, Mass. Maine was at that time almost a vi'ilderness. Portland, Sa- co and Scarborough were very fee- ble in consequence of the depreda- tions of the Indian*. These peo- ple endured great privations, and for many years were in constant apprehension of attack by the sav- ages. " The wives and daugh- ters of the first settlers of Gorham shared in all the toils and wants of their husbands and fathers ; they used to labor in the field, carry bur- dens, go to mill, and aid in defence of their property. One time when most of the men were awaj-, the Indians attacked the fort, and the wife of Hugh McLellan rallied the women in the garrison, shut the gates, mounted the walls, fired up- on the Indians, and by her courage and activity batHed the enemy till succor arrived." Kev. Solomon Lombard, a native of Truro, Mass., was the first set- tled minister. His annual salary was j£53, 6s. 8il. He was ordained Dec. 26, 1750. One hundred and twentjMlollars were raised to defray the expenses of the ordination. We copy the following from the list of supplies for that occasion, to show the prices of some articles at that period. 1 barrel of flour, £14 7s. 6d. 3 bushels of apples, 2 8 2 barrels of cider, 9 2 gallons of brandy, 5 1 bottle of vinegar, 5 2 cheeses, 6d. per lb. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. 54^ lbs. of pork, "id. per lb. 6 candles, £0 Is. 0(Z. 1 oz. of nutmegs, 10 8 fowls, 1 16 29 lbs. sugar, 8 14 1 tea pot, 1 10 4 gallons of rum, 5 4 2 bushels cranberries, 2 1 lb. of tea, 10 1 lb. of ginger, 2 6 gals, molasses, 2s. 8(i. per gal. 4 oz. of pepper, 6 Gorham is very pleasantly loca- ted : its soil is of a superior quali- ty : it has a flourishing academy, on a solid foundation : it is a place of considerable trade, and of exten- sive manufactures of cotton, wool, leather, starch, and gunpowder. Gorham has produced many men of talents, among which were eminent jurists and statesmen. It is noted for its attachment to the principles of the revolution. From 1807 to 1834, twenty per- sons died in Gorham, whose aver- age age was 94 years. Population, 1837,3,022. Goriiam, N. II., Coos CO., is a rough and unpro- ductive township lying on the north- erly base of the White mountains, and bounded E. by Shelburne, N. by Berlin, and W. by Randolph, and is 96 miles N. from Concord. Several streams descend from the mountains through this town into the Androscoggin. It was former- ly called Shelburne Addition, but was incorporated by its present name June 18, 1S36. Population in 1830, 111. Goslien, N. H., Sullivan co., is bounded N. by Newport and Wendell, E. by New- bury, S. by W'ashington, and W\ by Lempsterand Unity. It is 42 miles W. by N. from Concord. Croydon turnpike passes through Goshen. From Sunapee mountain, lying in the E. part of this town, spring ma- ny small streams, which unite in forming Sugar river. Rand's pond is in the N. E. part of the town. The soil is particularly calculated for the production of giass. It was incorporated Dec. 27, 1791. The first settlement was made about the year 1769, by Capt. Benjamin Rand, William Lang, and Daniel Grindle, whose sufferings and haidships were very great. The crops of the first settlers were greatly injured, and sometimes entirely destroyed by early frosts. In such cases they procured grain from Walpole and other places. At a certain time of scarcity, Capt. Rand went to that place after grain, and being detain- ed by a violent snow storm, his family was obliged to live without provision for six days, during which time Mrs. Rand sustained one of his children, 5 years old, by the milk from her breast, having a short time before buried her infant child. Pop- ulation in 1830, 772. Croslien, Vt. Addison co. First settled, 1800. Population, 1830, 555. Goshen lies 30 miles S. W. from Montpelier, and 15 S. E. from Middlebury. Lei- cester and Philadelphia rivers sup- ply the town with mill privileges. The lands along the rivers are very good, but in general they are too mountainous for profitable cultiva- tion. Some minerals are found in this town. Goslieii, Mass. Hampshire co. A mountainous town, 103 miles W. by N. from Bos- ton, and 12 N. W. from Northamp- ton. Some valuable minerals are found here, such as emei-alds, lead, and tin. The manufactures of Go- shen are small, chiefly of boots and shoes. The value of 3,048 fleeces of wool, produced in 1837, was sold for $4,500. Population, 1837, 560. Goslieu, Ct. Litchfield CO. First settled, I73S. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEEK. Incorporated, 1749. Population, 1830, 1,734. Goshen lies (J miles N. from Litclifield, 42 N. N. W. from New Haven, and 32 W. from Hartford. Groat attention is paid in this town to the education of youth. Ivy mountain, in Goshen, is considered the most elevated point of land in the state ; its summit pre- sents an extensive and deiiirhiful prospect. " Goshen is the most ele- vated lownshijjin the state, but not generally mountainous ; the surface being undulating, affording an in- teresting diversity of hills and vales. The soil is a gravelly loam, deep, strong and fertile, admirably adnpt- ed for grazing. This is one of the best towns for the dairy business in the state. Large quantities of cheese are annually made, the fame of which is widely and justly celebrat- ed, and the inhabitants arc general- ly in prosperous circumstances. In neatness, in and about their dwell- ings, and in the appearance of gen- eral comfort and prosperity, they are not exceeded, if equalled, by uny town in the state." Gosijort, N. H. See Isles of Shoals. Grafton County, N. H. Haverhill and Plymouth are the county towns. This county extends from lat. 43° 27' to 44° 22' N. It is .58 miles in length, and its greatest breadth is 30 miles. It contains 328,623 acres, besides a large tract of ungranted land. It is bounded N. by the coun- ty of Coos, E. by Strafford, .S. by Merrimack, and W. by the state of Vermont. Grafton county is wa- tered by Connecticut river, on which are several pleasant and flourishing towns; by Pemigcwas- cet, and Lower Amonoosuck rivers, and by many smaller streams. — Squam and Newfound lakes are the largest collections of water. The former, of which a considerable part lies in Strafford county, has il been much celebrated for its pic- turesque beauties. Its numerous angular projections, the variety of its islands covered with wood, and the vicinity of lofty mountains, ren- der it an oiiject peculiarly interest- ing. There are numerous eleva- tions which come under the name of mountains. Those of the most importance arc Gardner's in Ly- man, Peakf'd in Bethlehem, Moose- liillock in Coventry, Cushman's and the Blue mount in Peeling, Carr's in Warren and Ellsworth, JMoose in Hanover, and Cardigan in Orange. A large portion of Grafton county is mountainous and hilly, but this circumstance does not prevent its productiveness. It presents fine tracts for pasturage, a large propor- tion of arable land, and on the I'iv- ers, extensive and fertile intervales. This county is emphatically a wool growing county, and there were, in 18.37, more than 120,000 sheep within its borders. The first settlement in this county was made at Lebanon, and this was the first settlement on Connecticut river north of Charlestown. It was constituted a county, March' 19, 1771, and received its name in honor of Augu.stus Henry Fitzroy, Duke of Grafton. Population in 1775, 3,597; in 1790, 12,449; in 1800, 20,171; in 1810,28,462; in 1820, 32,989; and in 1830, 38,691. Grafton, N. II., Grafton co., is bounded N. E. by- Orange, S. E. by Danbury, S. W. by .Springfield, and N. W. by En- field. It is 36 miles N. W. from Concord, and 13 .S. E. fiora Dart- mouth college. It is watered by brandies of Smith's and Mascomy rivers. Heard's river, a small trib- utary to Smith's river, waters the S. E. part. There are 5 ponds. The largest, containing from 200 to 300 acres, is called Grafton pond. Two arc named Mud ponds, 'i'hc surface of Grafton is very hilly, m some parts very mountainous ; and NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the soil is so rocky as, in many places, to be unfit for cultivation. There are, however, some good tracts of land. The Grafton turn- ])ike, leading from Andover to Or- tord bridge, passes through the E. part, and the 4th N. H. turnpike, from Concord to Hanover, through the W. part. In this town there is a remarkable ledge, called the Pin- nacle, on the S. side of which the ground rises by a gradual ascent to the summit; but on the N. side, it falls nearly 150 feet, within the dis- tance of 6 or 8 feet. Isinglass, as it is commonlj' called, is found in a state of great purity in Glass Hill mountain. It adheres in the form of lamina to rocks of white and yel- low quartz. The usual size of these lamina is about C inches square, but some have been founil much larger. It requires much labor to obtain this glass, which, when prepared, is transported to Boston, and from thence exported to England. It is found on the E. side of the moun- tain, which is 200 feet high. Graf- ton was granted Aug. 14, 1761, to Ephraim Sherman and others. — The first permanent settlement was made in May, 1772, by Capt. Jo- .sepli Hoyt, from Poplin. Capt. Alexander Pixley and wife were the second family who settled here. Incorporated in 1773. Population in 1830, 1,207. Grafton, Vt. Windham co. Grafton is finely watered by Sexton's river, which is formed in the town by the union of several streams ; and by a branch of Williams' river. On these streams are manufactures of woolen and other goods. Soap-stone of an ex- cellent quality is very abundant in this place. It is manufactured by water power for various uses to a great extent : it is bored for aque- ducts and sold at a very low price. This town contains two pleasant and tlouiisliing villages, and a great variety of mineral treasure. Its surface is uneven with a strong and productive soil. Grafton was first settled, 1780. Population, 1830, 1,439. It lies 90 miles S. from Montpelier, and 18 N. from New- fane. Grafton, Mass. Worcester co. This important manufacturing town, the Hassana- misco of the Indians, was incorpo- rated in 1735. It lies 36 miles S. W. by W. from Boston, and 9 S. E. from Worcester. Population, 1830, 1,8S9; 1837,2,910. Blackstone riv- er and several large ponds give tliis town a constant and valuable water power. There are 5 cotton and 1 woolen mills. The total amount of the manufactures of Grafton, the year ending April 1, 1837, was $1,052, 448. The manufactures consisted of cotton and woolen goods, boots, shoes, leather, scythes, chairs, tin, cabinet and wooden wares, shoe tools and bricks. The manufac- ture of boots and shoes amounted to $614,141, employing 1,392 males and females. Grafton has a fine soil, is beautifully located, and ex- ceedingly flourishing. Granby, Vt. Essex CO. This town is nearly allied to Ferdinand , both in loca- tion and the character of the soil. Granby lies the next town S. of it, and 97 people, it is said, reside with- in the limits of Granby. Granljy, Mass. Hampshire co. This town lies 90 miles W. by S. from Boston, and 9 S. E. from Northampton. Incor- porated, 1768. It has good fish ponds and two small streams. There are two woolen mills in the town and 2,067 sheep. The wool, in 1837, sold for $3,670. Population, 1837, 922. It is said that copper ore of a good quality is found in Granbj'. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEEU. Grauby, Ct. Hartford co. This town was in- corporated in 1786, and was that part of Sitnsbury whicli contains the famous Siiiisbury niincs ; the old state prison of Connecticut. The cavern, once occupied as a prison, is now worked, as formerly, as a copper mine. This odious place, unfit for the residence of the worst of criminals, is 16 miles N. N. W. from Hartford. The pit or cav- ern is more than 50 feet in depth, dark, damp and dismal. The worst stigma that can be cast on the good people of Connecticut is, that this infernal region was suffered to re- main nearly 40 years the abode of their fellow beings. There are some hills in Granby of considera- ble elevation. Bat-n Jour hills rise between four and five hundred feet, and have the appearanec of having been separated by some convulsion of nature. Turkey hills and Sal- mon brook are pleasant villages, and have the appearance of prosperity. Farmington river waters the for- mer, and a branch of that river, the latter. Population, 1830, 2,722. Graud Isle Couuty, Vt. JS'orth Hero is the county town. This county comprises a group of islands in Lake Champlain, and a point of land jutting into the N. part of that lake on the S. side of the Canada line, on which Alburgh is situated. This county contains about 80 square miles : most of the land is level and e.vcellent for graz- ing and tillage. This county has no considerable streams, but its nav- igable facilities are very great. It was first settled about the close of the revolutionary war. Incorpora- ted, 1802. It contained, in 1837, about 16,000 sheep. Population, 1820,3,527; 1830,3,696. Popula- tion to a square mile, 46. Grana Isle, Vt. Grand Isle co. This town is bounded on all sides by Lake Cham- plain except on the S., where it is bounded by .Soutli Heio, from which it was taken in 1809. It lies 50 miles N. W. from Montpelier, and 18 N. by W. from Burlington. — First settled, 1783. Population, 1830, 643. The soil of the town is very fertile; it produces fine crops of grain and an abundance of fruit and cider. Marble, lime-stone, rock crystals. Sec, are found here, and Grand Isle contains the only water mill in the county. This is a fine place for fishing and fowling. Grand Lake. This is a large collection of wa- ter, lying partly in the county of Washington, Me., and partly in New lirunswick. It contains a large number of islands: it receives the waters of many small lakes and rivers, and is tlie chief source of the river St. Croix. It lies about 90 miles N. E. from Bangor, Grautliam, 9>. H., Sullivan co., is bounded N. by Enfield, E. by Springfield, S. by Croydon, and W. t)y Plainiield, which separates it from Connecticut river. It is 12 miles S. E. from Dartmouth college, and 45 N. W. from Concord. There are 7 or 8 ponds, the largest of which lies in the S. E. part of the town and is called Eastman's pond, containing nearly 300 acres. Another, lying near the centre of the town, con- tains nearly 200 acres. Croydon mountain extends through the west- erly part of Grantham in a direc- tion from S. W. to N. E. The soil is productive, especially on the W. of the mountain. It seems to be more favorable for wheat than any other species of grain. The moun- tain afibrds good pasturage, and the lower land yields grass in abund- ance. On the E. side of the moun- tain is a spring supposed to possess medicinal qualities, visited by hun- dreds of valetudinarians in the sum» NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. mer season. On the summit of Croydon mountain is a natural pond, containing about 50 acres. This town was first granted July 11, 1761, but the proprietors not fulfill- ing the conditions of the chaiter, it was forfeited. In 1767, it was re- granted to Col. William Symmes and 63 others, by the name of Gran- tham. Incorporated in 1761. Pop- ulation, in 1830, 1,679. Granville, Vt. Addison co. See Barnard, Me. Granville, Mass. Hampden co. This is a moun- tainous township, 110 miles W. S. W. from Boston, and 14 S. from Springfield. It contains good soap- stone and 1,500 sheep. The wool sold in 1837 for $2,572. There are some manufactures in Granville of pocket books, boots, shoes, leather, and silver ware. Although the land is high, the soil in many parts is very good and productive. The village is very pleasant. Incorpora- ted, 1754. Population, 1837,1,439. Gray, Me. Cumberland co. This is a fine farm- ing town, waterqd by branches of North Yarmouth and Presumpscot rivers, and containing a large psrt of Little Sebago pond. It lies 17 miles N. by \f . from Portland and 44 S. W. from Augusta. Incorporated, 1778. Population, 1837, 1,671. Gray is a pleasant town and a place of considerable trade and some man- ufactures. Gi-eat Earrington, Blass. Berkshire co. A very pleasant town in the valley of Housatonick river, 125 miles W. by S. from Bos- ton, and 14 S. from Lenox. Incor- porated, 1761. Population, 1837, 2,440. Monument mountain, in this town, is quite lofty : it ])resents some wild and picturesque scenery. Here are good iron ore, beautifully variegated marble, and a good mill stream. The soil on the banks of the Housatonick is fertile and the uplands are well adapted for graz- ing. Tlie manufactures consist of cotton and woolen goods, boots, shoes, leather, hats, pig iron, lasts, tin ware, bevils and guages. To- tal amount of manufactures in one year, $122,369. This town the same year (1837) produced 2,657 fleeces of merino wool, valued at $3,321. Great-Bays, W. H. The largest is that lying E. from New Market, formed by the united waters of Swamscot, Winnicut, and Lamprey rivers. It is 4 miles wide, and at some seasons is picturesque as connected with the surrounding scenery. This bay has Newington on the E., Greenlaml and Stratham on the S., and New Maiket and Durham W. : its waters pass N. E. through Little bay, where Oyster river unites with the current which passes into the Piscataqua. Great-Bay, between Sanbornton and Meredith, is a body of wa- ter, connected with Winnepisiogee lake, and discharging its waters in- to Winnepisiogee river. Bound and Long bays are situated between the lake and tjieat Bay, and there are two small bays on the river below Great Island, N. II. Sec JVew Castle. Great Wor&s Stream, Me. This stream has a number of trib- utaries, and is an important branch of the Penobscot. P. has many sites for mills, and falls into the Penob- scot, on the E. side, opposite to the Indian settlement at Oldtown. At its confluence with the Penobscot there is a considerable village. There is another stream of this name, which rises in York county, and passes to Salmon Fall river, at South Berwick. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Greene, Ale. Kennebec CO. Greene has several ponds, but no good mill privileges. It lies on the E. side of Androscog- gin river, 6 miles above Lewiston, and 22 S. W. from Augusta. It is an excellent farming town, and produced, in 1S37, 3,278 bushels of wheat. Incorporated, 17SS. Pop- ulation, 1837, 1,366. Grecnbusli, Me. Penobscot co. This territory was called the Olammon Plantation, until its incorporation in 1S34. — Olammon stream, one of the most beautiful ti-ibutaries of the Penob- scot, joins that river, on the E. side, in Greenbush, affording an exten- sive hydraulic power. Greenbush is a flourisliing place, and lies about 23 miles N. by E. from Bangor. Population, 1S30, 333; 1837, C66. Greenfield, Me. Hancock co. This town was in- corporated in 1834. It was No. 38 on the Bingham Purchase. Sec " Down East." Greenfield, N. H., Hillsborough co., is bounded N. by Franccstown and Society-Land, K. by Francestovvn and Lyndcbo- rough, S. by Lyndchorough and Temple, and W. by Peterborough and Hancock. It is 14 miles \V. N. W. from Amherst, and 3S S. W. from Conconl. Contoocook river forms part of the W. boundaiy, and separates this town fiom Hancock. The soil is generally fertile. The hills afford excellent pasturage ; the valleys and plains are favorable foi- grain. Hops are raised in great abundance. A part of Crotched mountain rises from the N. part, and part of Lyndeborough mountain from the S. and E. sections of this town. There are some valuable meadows ; in one of them have been found many Indian relics, from which it is conjectured that it was 14* a favorite spot of the sons of the forest. There are five ponds ; the largest about one mile in length, and one third of its length in width. The first settlement commenced in 1771, by Capt. Alexander Park- er, Major A. Whittemore, Simeon Fletcher, and others. It was incor- porated June 15, 1791. Population, in 1830, 946. Greenfield, Mass. County town, Franklin co. This town lies on the W. side of Connec- ticut river, and is washed by Green river, an excellent mill stream, a branch of the Deerfield. The vil- lage is situated about 2 miles from Connecticut river, and is very beau- tiful and flourishing. There is a woolen mill in (irecnfield with four sets of machinery; and manufac- tures of boots, shoes, leather, hats, iron castings, chairs, cabinet and tin wares, saddles, liarnesses, trunks, stove and lead aqueduct pipe, iron work, guns, pistols, rifles, coach- es, wagons, books, &c. Tlie total amount of manufactures, for the year ending April 1, 1837, waa .$164,844. The value of wool, the product of 2,153 fleeces, sheared in 1837, was $3,404. There is an academy for young ladies in this town, a farming school for young men, and some iron and copper ores. Greenfield lies 95 n)iles W. by N. from Boston, and 22 N. from North- ampton. Incorporated, 1753. Pop- ulation, 1S30, 1,540; 1837, 1,840 Greenland, A'. H., Rockingham co., is situated five miles W.S.W. from Portsmouth,and 45 E.S.E. from Concord : it is bound- ed N. by the Great-Bay and New- ington. E. by Portsmouth and Rye, S. by Nortli-Ilampton, and W. by Stratham. The soil is remarkably good. The orchards and gardens of this town are valuable, and yield annual profits to the farmers. — Greenland, originally a part of Ports- mouth, was incorporated as a di$- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. tinct town in 1703. Settlements commenced early, and in 1705 there were 320 inhabitants. Rev. Samuel M'Clintock, D. D., who died in the 48th year of his ministry, was born at Med- ford, Mass., May 1, 1732; gradua- ted at the New Jersey college in 17.51; ordained in 1756; and died April 27, 1804, aged 72. His fa- ther was a native of Ireland. Dr. M'Clintock was a sound divine, em- inent as a preacher, and distinguish- ed for his attachment to the cause of his country. He served as a chaplain in the army of the revolu- tion. Population jn 1S30, 631. Green Mountains. This range of mountains rises in Lower Canada. They pass nearly through the centre of Vermont, from N. to S., and the westerly parts of the states of Massachusetts and Connecticut, and terminate near New Haven, on Long Island Sound. From their green appearance they give the name to Vermont, and de- crease in height as they approach the south. The north peak, in Mans- field, Vt., is the greatest elevation, being 4,279 feet above the surface of lake Champlain. Green Rivers. Green, or Quodotchcpioik river, in the N. E. part of Penobscot coun- ty, Maine^ is an important branch of the St. John's, and joins that riv- er about 24 miles W. from the line of New Brunswick. Green river, in Massac.hv setts, rises in the high lands at the N. W. corner of Berkshire county ; it pas- ses N. W. through Wiirumislov^n, and the S. W. corner of Vermont, and joins the Iloo^ick in N. Y. There are several smaller streams in New England of the same name. Greensli>orougli, Vt. Orleans CO. William Scott Shep- ard, born March 25, 1789, was the first white child brought forth in this town. For his good fortune in this respect, the proprietors of the township gave him 100 acres of land. " Beautiful lake " and seve- ral other lakes and ponds in this town, form a part of the head wa- ters of the river Lamoille. This town is well timbered : the sur- face is not very elevated ; the soil in general is good, particularly for grazing. It produces some line cat- tle, and keeps about 4,000 sheep. Population, 1830, 7S4. Greenville, Me. Somerset co. The " Haskell Plantation," incorporated in 1836. 109 miles from Augusta. Popula- tion, 1837, 132. Se'e " Down East." Greenwich, Mass. Hampshire co. There are a num- ber of ponds in this town, by which, and Swift river passing through it, a good water power is acquired. There is a woolen mill in the town, and manufactures of shoes, boots, palm-leaf hats, and scythes. In- corporated, 1754. Population, 1837, 842. Greenwich lies 75 miles W. from Boston, and 17 N. E. from Northampton. Green'wicli, Ct. Fairfield co. The settlement of this town commenced in 1640, and was incorporated by Stuyvesant, the Dutch governor at New York, in 1665. Greenwich comprisesthree parishes or villages, — West Green- wich, Greenwich on the E. and Stanv.ich on the N. Vt'est Green- wich, on Horse JVcck, so called from a peninsula on the Sound for- merly used as a horse pasture, is the largest and most important part of the town. Greenwich is watered by By ran river, the boundary line between the town and state of New York, and the most southern part of New England. At the outlet of Byran river, on the New York side, is a place called Sawpits, a noted landing place on the Sound, 28 milea NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. N. E Irom New York. Miannus creek and other smaller streams water the town. A great battle took place between the IJutch and Indians at Horse Neck, in 1646. The action was long and severe, both parties light- ing with much obsiinacy. The Dutch with much ditficiilty kept the field, and the Indians with- drew. Great numbers were slain on both sides, and the graves of" the dead, for a century or more, ap])ear- ed like a number of small hills. '• Putnam's Hill is situated in West Greenwich, about live miles W. from Stamford, on the main road to New York. This place is cele- brated tor the daring exploit of Gen- eral Putnam, who descended this precipice when pursued bj' the Brit- ish dragoons." Greenwich is a rough and uneven township, with a pi-oductive soil. It presents some wild scenery along the road, and many beautiful views of Long Island Sound. It lies 4S miles W. S. W. from New Haven, and 20 W. S. W. from Fairfield. Populatiou, 1830, 3,805. Crreen'wood, Me. Oxford CO. Incorporated, 1815. Population, 1837, 754. It lies 58 miles W. by S. from Augusta, and 7 N. W. from Paris. This is a township of excellent land. The inhabitants are generally engaged in agricultural pursuits. Gris^vold, Ct. New London co. This town was taken from Preston in 1815, and is separated from Lisbon bj' Quennebaugh river. The Pochaug, a sluggish stream, passes through the town. The principal village, which is very neat and pretty, con- taining about 900 inhabitants, is called Jewett City. The city lies on the east side of the Qucnnebaug, at this place a very powerful stream, and contains three extensive cotton factories, a church, bank, and a number of handsome huildings. — This little city is said to be very prosperous in its manuficturing and commercial concerns. It lies 8 miles N. E. from Norwich, and 46 K. S. K. from Hartford. There are other manufactories of cotton in this town, and some of wool. The surface of Griswold is hilly ; its soil a gravelly loam : some produce is sent to market, and about 3,000 sheep arc kept. Populatiou, 1830, 2,212. Grotoii, N. H., Grafion co., is bound N.byRum- ney, E. by Hebron, S. by Orange, and W. by Dorchester. It is 10 miles S. \V. from Plymouth, 45 N. W. fi-om Concord, and 15 S. E. from Hanover. The north part is wa- tered by a branch of Baker's river, and the southerly part has sev- eral small streams, which fall into Newfound lake. There is but one pond of any consequence lying whol- ly in this town, and that is situated about a mile N. E. of the meeting- house. Groton was granted July 8, 1761, to George Abbot and others by the name of Cockertnouth. It was re-granted, about five years af- terwards, to Col. John Hale and oth- ers, and the first settlement was cominenced in 1770. Incorporated by the name of Groton, Dec. 1796. Population, in 1830, 689. Groton, Vt. Caledonia co. First settled, 1787. Wells river and its branches afford this town a good water power. — There are a number of ponds in (iroton, well stored with excellent fish, some of which are large and handsome. The soil of the town is generally hard, but there is some choice land along the streams, and good timber. The wife of a Mr. Page, of this town, in the year 1819, produced four lusty " green mountain boys" at a birth. When domestic manu- factures of this description and NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. amount, are adduced as evidence of the prosperity of a town, it is useless to talk about water power, cotton factories, or wool growing. Groton lies 16 miles E. by S. from Montpelier, and 15 S. by W. from Danville. Population, 1830, 836. Groton, Mass. Middlesex co. This is a delight- ful town, with an extraordinary good soil; 32 miles N. VV. from Boston, and 13 W. by S. from Lowell. Groton was settled soon after Concord. It was for some years a frontier settlement, and much ex- posed to the Indians. In 167S, the town was attacked by 400 Indians, and all the buildings plundered and burnt, except four garrison houses. The town is finely watered by the Nashua and Squanecook rivers and a number of beautiful ponds. The buildings are in a style of great neatness and taste, and some of elegance. This town has a fe- male seminary of high reputation, and a number of moral and reli- gious institutions. The local beau- ties of Groton and its facilities for education are so great as to induce many wealthy families to made it their residence. The raanufactui-es of Groton consist of paper, axle- trees, soap-stone pumps, mathemat- ical instruments, clothing, palm- leaf hats, chairs, cabinet ware, leather, boots and shoes. Incor- porated, 1655. Population, 1830, 2,057. Groton, Ct. New London co. Groton lies at the mouth of the river Thames, in the harbor of New London, and op- posite to that city, on the E. The lands are generally hilly and rocky, with some fertile tracts on the mar- gin of the Thames. There are sev- eral villages, Groton Bank, oppo- site New London, Portersville, on Mystic river, and Pequonnuck. The Pequonnuck and Mystic riv- ers pass through the town, and emp- ty into Long Island Sound. A num- ber of whale ships and coasting ves- sels are owned in this town. This is a place of some trade, and consid- erable quantities of the produce of the county is shipped to New York market. Ship building is carried on to a conjiderable extent, on the Mystic, which is navigable for large vessels about two miles from the Sound. About 300 men and boys are employed in navigation. Previous to its incorporation, in 1705, Groton was a part of New- London. Population, 1S30, 4,705. "Groton will ever be memora- ble as the theatre of the most im- portant and interesting military transactions which have taken place in the state. In the early settle- ment of the country, the fate of Connecticut was decided by the sword on Pequot hill, within the limits of this town, and the Pequots, the most haughty and warlike tribe of savages in New England, effec- tually crushed by a single blow, and their existence as a nation an- nihilated. In the war of the revo- lution, another of the ' high places of Groton became an Aceldama', and the flower of her sons were sa- crificed to the vengeance of an in- furiated enemy. " On the 6th of September, 1781, a body of British troops, about 800 in number, under the command of Lieut. Col. Eyre, landed on tho Groton side, opposite the light- house, and having found a lame boy collecting cattle, compelled him to show them the cart path to the fort. They landed about 9 o'clock in the morning of a most delightful day, clear and still. Fort Giiswold was under the command of Lieut. Col. William Ledyard, brother of the celebrated traveller of the same name. lie resided on Groton bank, opposite New London, and waa much beloved and respected by his neighbors. On the advance of the enemy. Col. Ledyard, having but about 150 men with him in the fort. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEEU. sent out an officer to s;ct assistance, as there were a number of hundreds of people collected in the vicinity : this officer, by drinking too much, became intoxicated, and no rein- forcement was obtained. On the rejection of a summons to surren- der, the British extended their lines, 80 that they were scattered over the lields, and rushed on to the attack with trailed arms, under the lire of the Americans, to the assault of the fort on three sides. Having effected a lodgment in the ditch, they cut away the pickets, and hav- ing scaling ladders, they entered tlie fort and knocked away the gate on the inside. While the British were in the ditch, they had cold shot thrown on them, and as they were entering the embrazures, the garrison changed their W'Capons and fought desperately with spears or pikes, 15 or 16 feel in length, which did considerable execution. Unfor- tunately they liad lent the greater part of the pikes belonging to the fort to a privateer a few days before. Major Montgomery was hoisted up on the walls of the fort by his sol- diers. As he was flourishing his sword on his entrance, he was mor- tally wounded by Jordan Freeman, a colored man, who pierced him through with a spear. Another of- ficer was killed by a musket ball, while in the fort. As he foil, he ex- claimed : ' Put every one to death, don't spare one.'' Col. Ledyard, finding further resistance useless, presented his sword to an officer, who asked him who commanded the fort. ' I did,' said Col. Ledyard, ' but you do now.' The officer (Ca|)t. Bloomfield) took his sword and plunged it into his bosom. Col. Ledyard fell on his face and instant- ly expired. An indisciiminate mas- sacre now took place, till a British officer exclaimed : ' My soul can- not bear sucli destruction,' and or- dered a parley to be beat. Such had been the butchery in the fort, that it wa3 over shoes in blood in some parts of the parade ground. Soon after the suricnder, a wagoD was loaded with wounded Ameri- cans, and set off down the hill; it struck an a])i)Ie tree with greatforee, and knocked several of these bleed- ing men out, and caused their in- stant death. One of these distress- ed men having been thrown ouc of the wagon, and while crawling to- wards the fence on his hands and knees, was brutally knocked on the head by the butt end of a musket, by one of the refugees who were atlaclied to the British army. The British embarked at the foot of the hill, near the ierrjs and took off a number of prisoners with them. As they left the fort, they set tire to a train, intending to blow up the magazine, in which were about 100 barrels of powder. Fortunately it was extinguished by our people, who entered the fort soon afler the enemy left it. It is stated that the enemy lost in (he attack on the fort 54 killed and 143 wounded, several of whom aftci'wards died of their wounds. The killed of the enemy wei-c buried by their comrades at the gate of the foi-t, and were so slightly covered that many of their legs and arms remained above ground. Our people who were kill- ed at the fort, were stripped, and so disligurcd, covered with blood and dust, that with the exception of (wo or three, they co=ld not be re- cognized by their friends, except by some particular marks on their persons." Themonument onGroton Heights, in commemoration of the destruction of Groton and NCw London l)y the traitor Arnold, " has its foundation stone at an elevation of about 130 feet above tide water : the monu- ment itself is one hundred and twen- ty seven feet in height. The pe- destal rises about eighteen or twen- ty feet, and is twenty three feet square : on the pedestal rises an obelisk square, ninety two feet in height, twenty two feet square at its NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. base, and eleven feet at the top. It is! ascended by one hundred and sixty five stone steps, inserted into the outer wall, rising in a circular form, their inner ends supported by an iron rail and bannister. The mon- ument is constructed of granite, of vphich there is an abundance in the vicinity. The expense of its erec- tion was eleven thousand dollars ; this amount was raised by a lottery, granted by the state for this pur- pose. The following is the inscription, on marble, placed over the entrance of the monument. "This Monument was erected under the patronage of the State of Connecticut, A. D. 1830, and in the 55th year of the Independ- ence of the U. S. A. In memory of the brave Patriots who fell in the massacre at Fort Griswold, near this spot, on the Gth of September, A. D. 1781, when the British, under the command of the traitor, Benedict Arnold, burnt the towns of New London and Groton, and spread desolation and woe throughout this region." Guildhall, Vt. County town of Essex co. Guild- hall is situated on the TV. side of Connecticut river, and is united to Lancaster, N. H., by two bridges across the river. The town is wa- tered by several small streams. — The soil of the town is quite uneven and stony, except a tract of inter- vale on the river. Cow and Burn- side mountains are considerable ele- vations, and afford excellent views of the meanderings of the Connec- ticut. Guildhall lies 50 miles N. E. from Montpelier, and 90 N. by E. from Windsor. First settled, 1789. Population, 1830, 481. Guilford, Me. Piscataquis CO. This town is fine- ly watered by the Piscataquis and some of its upper branches. It ia of fine soil, and produced in 1837, 4,965 bushels of wheat. It has a pleasant village, a number of mills, and considerable trade. Guilford is 71 miles N. by E. from Augusta, 45 N. W. from Bangor, and 12 N. W. from Dover. Incorporated, 1816. Population, 1837, 799. Guilford, Vt. Windham co. This town was first permanently settled in 1760. It lies 125 miles S. from Montpelier, 15 S. by E. from Newfane, and 30 E. from Bennington. Population, 1830, 1,760. The people of this town took an active part in defending the rights of Vermont against the claims of jurisdiction set up by the state of New York, about the years 1783-4. Guilford produced a num- ber of patriots in this as also in the revolutionary cause. The soil of the town is warm and fertile, ex- ceedingly productive of grain, fruits, maple sugar, butter, cheese, pork, sheep, horses, and beef cattle. It has good mill seats on Green river and branches of Broad brook, a number of manufactories, a medi- cinal spring, and various kinds of minerals. GuUford, Ct. New Haven co. This town, the Menunkatvc of the Indians, was first settled in 1639. The town was settled by a party of Non-Conform- ists from England, at the head of which was the Rev. Henry Whit- field. Mr. Whitfield's house, built of stone, in 1640, is now standing, occupied, and in good repair. The cement used in building it, is said to be harder than the stone itself. This building was used by the first settlers as a fort and place of refuge against the attacks of the natives. NE«' ENGLAND GAZETTEER. The first inarriag;e in the town was I solemnized in this builiiin<^. The treat on the occasion was pork and peas. Guilford borough was incor- porated in 1815. It is liandsomoly located two miles from Lonsj; Island Sound, on a tract of alluvial plain, and near a small stream called the Menunkatuc. The buiklin?-j In the horough are neat, but somewhat antiquated in their appearance. — Guilford is a place of resort for sea air and bathing. The accommoda- tion's are very 2;ood. The scenery in the vicinity of Sachem's Head is wild and picturesque. The soil of Guilford is well adapteil to agri- cultural pursuits, to which, and some coasting trade, the principal part of the inhabitants are devoted. It lies 16 miles E. from New Haven, and 36 S. from Hartford. Population, 1830, 2,344. Haddam, Ct. One of the. county towns of Mid- dlesex co. Incorporated, 166S. This town lies on both sides of Connec- ticut river. Haddam Societj% on the \V. side, is the largest part of the town, and the seat of justice. That part of Haddam on the E. side is railed Haddam Neck. There is but little alluvial land in Had- dam. The principal part of the township is hilly and stony, with considerable forests. There are valuable quarries of granite on both sides of the river. About 150 men are annually employed in (juarry- ing it, and about .^70.000 worth of stone is annually exported. There are many vessels built at Haddam. The timber in this quarter of the county is well adapted for that pur- pose. The village of Haddam is pleasant, and has a good pro-pect of the river. It lies 23 miles S. from Hartford, and 8 S. E. from Middletown. Population, 1830, 2,- 830. David Brainerd, the devoted missionary among the Indians, first drew his breath in Haddam. " If the greatness of a character is to be estimated by the object it pursues, the danger it braves, the difficulties it encounters, and the purity and energy of its motives, David Brainerd is one of the great- est characters that ever appeared in the world. Compared with this standard of greatness, what little things are the Alexanders, the Cae- sars, the conquerors of the whole earth. A nobk>r object no human or angelic mind could ever propose to itself than to promote the glory of the great Govei-nor of the Uni- verse, in studying and laboring to diffuse purity and happiness among his unholy and miserable creatures. " ' His life and diary among the Indians,' says a celebrated English divine, ' exhibits a perfect pattern of the qualities which should dis- tinguish tlie instructor of rude and barbarous tribes; the most invinci- ble patience and self denial, the profoundest humility, exquisite pru- dence, indefatigable intlustry, and such a devotedness to God, or rath- er such an absorption of the whole soul in zeal for the divine glory and the salvation of men, as is scarcely paralleled since the age of the apostles.' " This faithful servant of Christ died at the house of the Rev. Jona- than Edwards, at Northampton, Mass., October 10, 1747, aged 30. Hadley, 3IaS9. Hampshire co. This is a plea- sant town on the E. bank of Con- necticut river, and unites with Northampton by a beautiful bridge, 1,0S0 feet in length. It was first settled in 1647. Incorporated, 1661. Population, 1837, 1,805. It lies 88 miles W. from Boston. Two small streams adord the town some water power. Hadley contains a large and fertile tract of alluvial meadow. The village, situated on the river, is pleasant, anil contains many neat and valual)le buildings. Hadley was a retreat of the cclc- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. brated Gofie and Whalley, two of the judges who condemned Charles I. for execution. They remained secluded here more than fifteen years, when Whalley died. Goffe died and was buried at New Ha- ven, Ct., some years after. The manufactures of Hadley con- sist of leather, boots, shoes, hats, glue, palm-leaf hats, wire, chairs, cabinet ware, brooms, and brushes. Total value the year ending; April 1, 1837, $117,850. This town is celebrated for raising broom corn. The value of brooms manufactured was $39,248. A considerable quan- tity of the unmanufactured materi- al was sent to other places. Halifax, Vt. Windham co. This town'ship is rather elevated, but of good soil, finely adapted for grazing. It is a place of considerable trade, and of manufactures on its numerous streams. Its principal streams are Green river and a branch of the Deerfield. There are some hand- some falls of water in Halifax, and a curious cave called Dun's Den. The productions of the town are butter, cheese, pork, sheep and oth- er cattle. The cause of education flourishes here, and the people arc generally independent cultivators of the soil. Halifax lies 125 miles S. from Montpelier, and 15 S. from Newfane. First settled, 1761.— Population, 1830, 1,562. Halifax, Mass. Plymouth co. The Indian name of this place was Monponset. It lies 28 miles S. S. E. from Boston, and 12 W. by S. from Plymouth. The surface of the town is gener- ally level, with considerable good Koil. ilonponsct and other ponds are large collections of water, and the sources of valuable mill privi- leges. There are a cotton and wool- en mill in the town, and manufac- tures of shoes and straw braid ;^- total annual amount of manufactures about .$150,000. Halifax was in- corporated in 1734. Population, 1837, 7S1. Ilallowell, Me. Kennebec co. Hallowell is de- lightfully situated on both sides of Kennebec river, between Augusta and Gardiner, two miles below the former and four miles above the lat- ter. The principal village is on the W. side of the river. The streets run parallel with the river, and the ground ascends 200 feet from the lower street, or business part of the village. On this street are 60 com- modious stores, constructed princi- pally of lirick. Most of the dwell- ing houses are on the back or ele- vated streets : they are built, as are the churches, with great taste, and being suri-ounded by beautiful groves, make a fine appearance. The varied views of the river, the neighboring towns, and of a fer- tile country of hills and vales, pre- sented from the high grounds on each side of the village, form an ex- hibition of scenery of uncommon excellence. Hallowell is about 3 miles in width, and extends back on each side of the river 5 miles. It was incorporated in 1771, and in- cluded all the territory of Augusta and a part of Gardiner. From this place the brave but traitorous Ar- nold marched on an expedition against Canada, in 1776. There is one water mill in the town ; two saw mills, an iron foun- dry and machine shop, worked by steam. Steam boats piy from thi» place to Portland and Boston, dur- ing the season of navigation. There is considerable tonnage at this place: a number of vessels are engaged in the freighting business, and others run as packets to various places. The principal exports are lumber, granite, and all the common pro- ductions of a fertile northern cli- mate. The granite quarries at Hallowell have been worked for fifteen years with great success. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. The granite is of a light color and easily wrought: in some years $100,000 worth of it has been trans- ported. Vessels drawing 9 feet of water can come to the wharves in the centre of the village. As Ilallowell and Augusta are so closely united in all tlieir vari- ous intercuts and pursuits, a repeti- tion of what we have said of the favorable position of Augusta, and of its future j)rospects, is unneces- sary. With common success in our national affairs, and with a contin- uation of that spii'it of enterpi-ize, every day manifested on the banks of the Kennebec, it requires no Mormon spectacles to foresee that within a very few years there will lie a continuous village from the Kennebec dam to the mouth of the Cobbessecontee. Population. 1820, 2,919 ; 1830, 3,964. The present popuhition is about 5,000. Hallowell was, for many years, the residence of Ben-jamijv Vaug- HAJV, LL. D. a gentleman highly distinguished for his learning, pub- lic benefactions and private virtues. Hall's Stream, TH. II., Rises in the highlands which sep- arate that state from the Biitish do- minions, and forms the N. W. boun- dary between New Hampshire and Lower Canada, from its source to its junction with the Connecticut at Stewartstown. Kamdeu, C't. New Haven co. This town was taken from New Haven in 178fi, from which it lies about 6 miles N. It is situated between the East and West Rock ranges of mountains, the southern terminus of the Green mountain range. The soil in many parts is easy of cuUivation, but in general it is more adapted to graz- ing than tillage. Minerals are found here, among wliich are spe- cimens of very pure copper. Mill river affords numerous sites for wa- ter works. 15 Whitney smile, about two iim^^ from New Haven, is admiral)ly lo- cated formanufacturing oppeiations. The manufactures at the Carmel works, consist of paper, carriages, coach and cliptic springs, steps, axletrees, brass work, &c. Mount Carmel, a noted elevation, 8 miles N. from New Haven, exhibits an extensive prospect.. Population, 1830, 1,669. Hamilton, Mass. Essex CO. This is a beautiful farming town, and most of the in- habitants are employed in cultivat- ing it. There are some vessels built here, and some manufactures of leather, boots, and shoes. The town is quite small. Population, 1837, S27. Taken from Ipswich in 1793. It lies 8 miles N. by E. from Salem. Hampden, Me. Penobscot co. Hampden lies on the west side of Penobscot, below and adjoining Bangor. It is also watered by the Sowadabscook riv- er, a lai-ge and valuable mill stream. This is an important township in its commerce on the Penobscot, its manufacture of lumber, and its ag- ricultural productions. It is one of the most flourishing towns on the river. The quantity of wheat pro- duced by the farmers, in 1S37, wa-s 5,664 bushels. Population, 1830, 2,020 ; 1837, 2,520. Hampden is 6 miles S. from Bangor, and 62 E. N. E. from Augusta. Hampden County, Mass. Springfield is the chief town. This county is very fertile and well cultivated, and in common with all the counties on Connecticut river, it presents a rich array of delightful scenery. Its rivers aflbrd an abun- dant water power; and this county has become noted for its various and extensive manufactures. Much inland trade is brought to the banks of the Connecticut,and large exports NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. are made from this county, the pro- duct both of the soil and mechani- cal labor. This county was taken from Hampshire county in 1812. Population, 1820,28,021; 1830, .31,- 640 ; 1837, 33,627. Area, 58.5 square miles. Bounded S. by Tolland and Hartford counties, Connecticut ; W. by Berkshire county ; N. by Hamp- shire county, and E. by Worcester county : 57 inhabitants to a square mile. The Connecticut, Westiield, Chickopee, and Quinebaugh are its chief rivers. The value of the manufactures of this county, the year ending April 1,1837, was $3,0.56,302. The value of wool, the product of 29,950 sheep, was $44,786. Hampsliire County, Mass. JVorthampton is the chief town. This ancient county, although its limits have been greatly reduced by the production of Franklin and Hampden counties, is still increas- ing in agricultural, commercial and manufacturing strength. Located in the centre of the alluvial basin of the noble Connecticut ; blessed with a rich and variegated soil, and great water power, this must ever remain one of the most independ- ent counties in New England. — Area, 532 square miles. Popula- tion, 1820, 26,447 ; 1830, 30,210 ; 1837, 30,413. Incorporated, 1662. This county is bounded S. by Hamp- den, W. by Berkshire, N. by Frank- lin, and E. by Worcester counties : 57 inhabitants to a square mile. The Connecticut, Westfield, and Swift, are its chief rivers. The manufactures of this county, the year ending April 1, 1837, amount- ed to $2,335,652. The value of wool, the fleeces of 64,274 sheep, amounted to $103,751. Haxnpstead, N. H., Rockingham co., lies partly on the height of land between Merri- mack and Piscataqua rivers. Most of the waters descend S W. into the Merrimack through Spiggot riv- er, which flows from Wash pond, near the centre of the town, An- glypond is in the N. E. part of the town, the waters of which pass into Powow river. Island pond, in the S. W. part of the town, contains a valuable farm of 300 acres. The town was granted by Gov. Benning Wentworth, January 19, 1749, and named by him after a pleasant vil- lage five miles N. of London, Eng- land. He reserved the island be- fore mentioned for his own farm. Population in 1830, 913. See Haiuptou, Me. ■ Down East." Hamptou, IV. H. Rockingham co., lies on the sea- coast, bounded N. E. by North- Hampton, S. E. by the Atlantic, S. W. by Hampton Falls, N. W. by Hampton Falls and part of Exeter. Distant 13 miles S. W. from Ports- mouth, 7 S. E. from Exeter, and 50 S. E. from Concord. The soil is well adapted to tillage and mowing, and about one fifth of the territory is a salt marsh. Hampton is pleas- antly situated ; many eminences in the town affording romantic views of the ocean. Isles of Shoals, and sea-coast from Cape Ann to Ports- mouth. Its beaches have long been the resort of invalids and parties of pleasure, and are little inferior to th-e famous Nahant beach near Boston. Boards Head is an abrupt emi- nence extending into the sea, and di- viding the beaches about halfway between the river's mouth and the N. E. corner of the town. On the N. beach are numerous fish-houses, from which the winter and summer fisheries have been carried on with much success. Great quantities of the winter fish are carried frozen into the interior, and to Vermont and Canada. The Indian name of this town was TVinnicumet ; it was first set- tled in 1638, by emigrants from the NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. county of Norfolk, England. The first house was erected in 1635, by Nicholas Easton, and was called the Bound-house. The town was in- corporated in 1036, and then inclu- ded within its limits what now con- stitutes the towns of North Hamp- ton, Hampton Falls, Kensington and Seabrook. This town was formerly the scene of Indian depredations. On the 17th Aus;. 1703, a party of Indians kill- ed 5 persons in Hampton, among whom was a widow Mussey, cele- brated as a preacher among the Friends. The Hon. Christopher Top- pan died here in Feb., 1819, aged 84: he was a very useful and dis- tinguished citizen. Population in 1830, 1,103. Hampton, Ct. Windham co. This town was taken from Windham and Pomfret in 1786. The people are generally agriculturalists, with a good strong soil of an uneven surface. The village is pleasantly situated on high ground, 3.5 miles E. from Hartford and 6 from Brooklyn. Hampton has good mill seats on a branch of Shetucket river. Population, 1830, 1,101. Haiupton Falls, N. H., Rockingham co., is situated 45 miles vS. E. from Concord, and 16 S. W. from Portsmouth. The soil is generally good. Hampton Falls was originally a part of Hampton, from which it was separated and incorporated, in 1712. Population, 1830, 582. Hancock County, Me. Ellsworth is the chief town. This county is bounded N. by Penobscot county, E. by Washington county, S. by the Atlantic ocean, and W. by Penobscot bay and river, and a part by Penobscot county. Its ex- tent on the ocean is between 50 and 60 miles : it comprises numerous islands of great beauty, some of which are large, fertile and well cultivated ; it comprises also nu- merous bays, and a vast number of coves, inlets and spacious harbors. ■ Perhaps there is no district of its extent on the American coast, that offers greater facilities for naviga- tion, in all its various branches, than the county of Hancock. The ton- nage of Frenchman's bay, in this county, in 1837, was 13,184 tons. The soil of the county is generally of an excellent quality, particularly in the interior. There are a great number of ponds in the county : ev- ery section of it is watered by mill streams, and Union river, nearly in its centre, affords the interior part great facilities for transporta- tion. This county contains an area of about 1,850 square miles. Pop- ulation, 1830, 24,347 ; 1837, 28,120. Population to a square mile, 15. This county produced, in 1837, 21,- 446 bushels of wheat, and contain- ed 38,870 sheep. Hancock, ]>Ie. Hancock CO. This town was tak- en from Sullivan and Trenton in 1828. It is situated between those towns, and is nearly surrounded by the head waters of Frenchman's bay. It is a place of some naviga- tion ; 85 miles E. from Augusta, and bounded easterly by Ellsworth. Population, 1837, 653. Hancock, N. H. Hillsborough co. It is 35 miles from Concord, 22 from Amherst, and 19 from Keene. The W. part of the town is mountainous, but af- fords excellent pasturing and many good farms. The other parts of the town are agreeably diversified with plains, hills and valleys. On the Contoocook, and some of its trib- utary streams, there are several tracts of excellent intervale. There are two considerable ponds, one of which is in the centre, a few rods N. of the meeting-house. There NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. is a cotton factory, a paper mill, and several other manufacturing estab- lishments here ; also a nourishing academy. Hancock was incorpora- ted Nov. 5, 1779. It was named after Gov. Hancock, of Boston, who was one of the original proprietors. The first settlement was begun in 1764. Population, 1830, 1,31G. Hancock, Vt. Addison co. Several branches of Otter creek rise in this town. Hancock is wholly on the moun- tains, and most of the land fit only for grazing. First settled, 1778. Population, 1S30, 472. It lies 30 miles S. W. from Montpelier, and 1.5 S. E. from Middlebury. Hancock, Mass. Berkshire co. This is a moun- tainous township, on the line of the state of New York, the source of the Housatonick, and the residence of a family of " Shakers." It Jies 129 miles W. from Boston, 15 N. by W. from Lenox, and 5 E. from New Lebanon, New York. Incor- porated, 1776. Population, 1337, 975. There are one cotton and three woolen mills in the town, and some manufactures of leather, boots, shoes, iron castings, and wooden ware. The value of 5,445 fleeces of wool, sheared in 1837, amounted to $11,544. As we are so near the lovely val- ley of New Lebanon, its tepid springs, and a large family of our friends, the Shakers, we must be permitted to cross the line a mo- ment, "just to take a look." JYew Lebanon, New York, is in the county of Columbia, and sit- uated in a delightful valley, sur- rounded by cultivated hills, which present scenery greatly variegated and peculiarly pleasing. A community of Shakers, of be- tween 500 and 600, own about 3,000 acres of excellent land in Ihi s town- ship, which is highly improved by this industrious, hospitable, and cu- rious people. Their village is about two miles southeast of the springs. The Springs are on the side of a hill, and are so abundant as to sup- ply a small water power. The wa- ters are tasteless, pure as crystal, and appear to differ in no respect fiom other pure mountain waters, except in temperature, which is always at 72° of Fahrenheit. This is a great resort for visitors from all directions: — some to enjoy the romantic scenery with which this region abounds, and others the benign intiuence of the waters. The public resorts are well located, and alibrd excellent accommodations. New Lebanon is 134 miles W. from Boston, 24 E. from Albany, 25 N. E. from Hudson, 7 W. from Pitts- field, 23 S. by W. from Williams- town, 156 N. by E. from New York, and 63 N. W. by W. from Hartlbrt^ Ct. Kanover, W. H. Grafton co. The Connecticut river separates it from Norwich, Vermont. It is 53 miles N. W. from Concord, and 102 from Ports- mouth. In this town there is no river nor any considerable stream besides the Connecticut. Mink brook, running in aS. W. direction, Slate brook in a W. course, and Goose-Pond brook in the N. E. part of the town, are among the princi- pal streams. Neither of them is large enough for permanent mill privileges. There are several small islands in Connecticut river within the limits of Hanover, the largest of vvliich is Parker's island, contain- ing ajbout 20 acres. There are no natural ponds. The surface of Hanover is agreeably diversified with hills and valleys, and the great- est part is suitable for farms. There is but a small proportion of waste land; less, perhaps, than in any other town in Grafton county. It is es- timated that nearly one half is un- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. der improvement. Moose moun- tain is a considerable elevation, ex- tending across the town from N. to S., at the distance of about five miles from Connecticut river. A handsome bridge connects the S. W. part of the town with Norwich. The principal village is in tlie .S. W. corner of the town, on a beau- tiful and extensive plain, half a mile from Connecticut river, and 180 feet above the level of its wa- ters. Vegetable substances are found in dilferent parts of this plain at a depth of from .50 to 80 feet. The principal houses are erected round a square, level area, of 12 acres. The remainder stand on different streets, leading from the green in all directions. In this pleasant village is located Dartmouth College. See Register. Among the worthy men who have finished their earthly career in this place, may be mentioned the following : Rev. Eleazar Wheelock, D. D., who died April 24, 1779, aged 69. Hon. John Wheelock, LL. D., president of the college 3-5 years, who died April 4, 1S17, aged 63. Hon. Bkzaleel Woodward, who died Aug. 1804. Rev. John Smith, D. D., who died April, 1809. Hon. John Hubbard, who died in Sept. 1810. Rev. Francis Brown, D. D., who died July 27, 1820, aged 36. These gentlemen were ail connect- ed with the college. Population, 1830, 2,361. Hanover, Mass. Plymouth co. Hanover is bound- ed S. by North river, which fur- nishes good mill sites. It was in- corporated in 1727. It lies 23 miles S. E. from Boston, and 12 N. W. from Plymouth. The manufactures of Hanover consist of bar iron, iron castings, anchors, ploughs, vessels, 15* tacks, leather, boots, shoes, and woolen cloth : total annual amount, about $75,000. Pop. 1S37, 1,435. Hanson, Mass. Plymouth co. This town is wa- tered by a branch of North river and several ponds. It was taken from Pembroke in 1820, and lies in the vicinity of large beds of excel- lent iron ore. The manufactures of Hanson consist of ship anchors and knees, nails, carriage springs, iron castings, leather, shoes, sawed boxes and shingles : total annual amount, about $70,000. Population, 1837, 1,058. It lies 24 miles S. S. E. from Boston, and 15 N. N. W. from Plymouth. HardAvick, Vt. Caledonia CO. Hardwick is fine- ly watered by Lamoille river, which gives the town valuable mill sites, and which are well improved for manufacturing purposes. The soil of the town is generally very good, and produces a variety of exports. Between si.x and seven thousand sheep, and manj/ other cattle, are kept in the town, a large amount of which are annually fattened and sent to market. Among the first settlers of the town, in 1790, was Mr. Gideon Sa- bin, whose wife became the mother of 26 children. Population, 1830, 1,216. Hardwick lies 20 miles N. N. E. from Montpelier, and 13 N. W. from Danville. Hartl'wick, Mass. Worcester co. AVare river and a smaller stream pass through the S. part of this town, and furnish good mill privileges. It lies 62 miles W. from Boston and 22 W. by N. from Worcester. Incorporated, 1738. Population, 1837, 1,818.— There are 2 paper mills in the town, and manufactures of straw bonnets, palni-leaf hats, boots, shoes, ploughs, leather, chairs and cabinet ware : annual amount about $50,000. — NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Hardwick is a pleasant town, of good soil, with a tine fish pond. Harmony, Me. Somerset co. This town has an excellent soil, and is well watered by a large and beautiful pond, and by other sources of Sebasticook river. In 1837 it had a population of 1,048, and produced (j,S36 bushels of wheat. It was incorporated in 1303, and lies 53 miles N. by E. from Augusta, and 23 N. E. from Norridgewock. Harps^vell, Me. Cumberland co. This township comprises a promontory in Casco bay, formerly Merryconeag, and several islands surrounding it, the largest of which is called Sebascod- cgan. The waters which enclose this territory are so situated, at the northern and eastern extremity of Casco bay, that a canal of about a mile in length would unite them with Kennebec river, near Bath. The soil of Harpswell is very fer- tile, and the location delightful in summer. It is a resort for invalids and parties of pleasure. The peo- ple are principally engaged in farm- ing and fishing. It lies 22 miles N. E. from Portland by water, and 4 miles S. E. from Brunswick. In- corporated, 1758. Population, 1837, 1,344. Hari-iugtou, Me. Washington co. This town is bounded on the S. and E. by the waters of Narraguagus bay, and W. by the river of that name. It has good mill privileges, excellent har- bors, considerable navigation and trade. Incorporated, 1797. Popu- lation, 1830, 1,118; 1837, 1,.354.— Harrington lies 118 miles E. from Augusta, and 25 W. S. W. from Machias. Harrison, Me. Cumberland co. Crooked river passes the E. side of this town, and the waters of Long pond are its western boundary. This is a good township of land, and pioduced, in 1837, 3,180 bushels of wheat. In- corporated, 1805. Population, 1837, 1,161. Harrison has Otistield on the E., and is 75 miles W. S. W. from Augusta, and 45 N. W. from Portland. Hartford, Me. Oxford CO. This excellent town- ship is watered by ponds and small streams, and produced, in 1837, 9,- 318 bushels of wheat. It lies 31 miles Vi. from Augusta, and 15 N. E. from Paris. Population, 1830, 1,453. Incorporated, 1798. Hartford, Vt. Windsor co. This town is on the west side of the Connecticut, and is otherwise finely watered by White and Waterqueechy rivers. It lies 42 miles S. S. E. from Montpelier, and 14 N. from Windsor. First set- tled, 1764. Population, 1830, 2,044. The surface of the town is uneven, but the soil is rich, warm, and very productive. The two principal vil- lages are pleasantly located on the banks of the rivers that meet the Connecticut at this place, both of which are flourishing in manufac- tures and trade. Many cattle,beside pork, butter, cheese, &c., are sent to market from Hartford. In 1837 it had 13,207 sheep. Hartford County, Ct. Hartford is the chief town. This county is bounded N. by Hampden county, Mass., E. by Tolland coun- ty, S. by the counties of Middlesex and New Haven, and W. by the county of Litchfield. This is con- sidered the most important and val- uable county in the state, in re- gard to the variety and richness of its soil, and the high state of cul- ture it has attained. It was con- stituted in 16C6, since which, Tol- land county and parts of Middle- sex, Windham, Litchfield, and New NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEEft. London have been detached. Its present limits comprise an area of about 727 sciuare miles. Besides the Connecticut, which traverses its whole length, the Farmington, Hackanum, Podunk, Scantic, and other streams, water the county in almost every direction. On these streams important manufacturing establishments have sprung up, and unite with the agricultural interest and river trade in rendering this county the centre of a large and flourishing business. In 1S37 tliere were in the county 29,576 sheep. Population, 1S20, 47,261; 1830, 51,141 : 70 inhabitants to a square mile. Hartford, Ct. The first English settlement in Harttbrd was commenced in 163.5, by Mr. John Steel and his associates from Newtown, (now Canibridge)in Massachusetts. The main body of the first settlers, with Mr. Hooker at their head, did not arrive till the following year. " About the beginning of June, (says Dr. Trumbull,) Mr. Hooker, Mr. Stone, and about one hundred men, women and children, took their departure from Cambridge, and traveled more than a hundred miles, through a hideous and track- less wilderness, to Hartford. They had no guide but their compass, and made their way over mountains, through swamps, thickets and riv- ers, which were not passable but with great difficulty. They had no cover but the heavens, nor any lodgings but those that simple na- ture afforded them. They drove with them a hundred and sixty head of cattle, and by the way subsisted on the milk of their cows. Mrs. Hooker was borne through the wil- derness upon a litter. The people carried their packs, arms, and some utensils. They were nearly a fort- night on their journey. Tbis ad- venture was the more remarkable, as many of the company were per- sons of figure, who had lived in England, in honor, afHuence and delicacy, and were entire strangers to fatigue and danger." The Indian name of Hartford was Siickiag. A deed appears to have been given by Stinckquasso7i, the sachem of the place, about 1636, to Samuel Stone and William Good- win, who appear to have acted in behalf of the first settlers. The town of Hartford is bounded N. by Windsor and Bloomfield, E. by Connecticut river, S. by Weth- ersfield, and W. by Farmington and Avon. It is about six miles in length from north to south, and ave- rages about five in breadth. The western part of the town has a soil of red gravelly earth, very rich and productive. That part near the river is covered with a strong clay, or a rich black mould. The latter is principally in the valuable tract of meadow adjacent to Connecticut river. Hartford City, incorporated in 17S4, is over a mile in length upon the river, and about three fourths of a mile in breadth. The alluvial flat upon the river is nar- row, being from 40 to 100 rods, and is connected with the upland by a very gradual elevation. It is situ- ated on the west side of Connecti- cut river, 45 miles from its mouth. It is in N. lat. 41° 45' 59", W. Ion. 72° 40'. It is 260 miles S. W. from Augusta, Maine; 139 S. S. W. from Concord, New Hamp- shire ; 205 S. from Montpelier, Ver- mont ; 97 W. S. W. from Boston, Massachusetts ; 64 W. from Provi- dence, Rhoile Island; 110 N. E. from the city of New York, and 335 E. from Washington. The legislature of the state as- sembles alternately at Hartford and New Haven, the odd years at Hart- ford. The city is rather irregular- ly laid out, and is divided at the S. part by Mill, or Little river. Across this stream a fine bridge of free- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. stone has been thrown, which con- nects the two parts of the city. This structure is 100 feet wide, supported by a single arch, 7 feet in thickness at the base, and 3 feet 3 inches at the centre, the chord or span of which is 104 feet; eleva- vation from the bed of the river to the top of the arch, 30 feet 9 inch- es. Anotlier bridge, across Con- necticut river, 1,000 feet long, and which cost over $100,000, unites the city with East Hartford. Hartford is very advantageously situated for business, is surrounded by an ex- tensive and wealthy district, and communicates with the towns and villages on the Connecticut above by small steam-boats, two of which, for passengers, ply daily between Hartford and Springfield. The re- mainder are employed in towing flat bottomed boats, of 15 to 30 tons burthen, as far as Wells' river, 220 miles above the city. The coast- ing trade is very considerable, and tliere is some foreign trade carried on. A daily line of steam-boats pass between Hartford and New York. The manufactures of this city ex- ceed $900,000 per annum ; among these are various manufactures of tin, copper, and slieet iron ; block tin and pewter ware ; printing press- es and ink ; a manufactoiy of iron machinery ; iron foundries, saddle- ry, carriages, joiners' tools, paper- hangings, looking-glasses, umbrel- las, stone ware, a brewery, a web manufactory, cabinet furniture, boots and shoes, hats, clothing for exportation, soap and candles, man- ufactories of machine and other wire cards, operated by dogs, &c. More than twice as many books, it is stated, are published here, annu- ally, as are manufactured in any other place of equal population in the United States. The city is well built, and con- tains many elegant public and pri- vate edifices. The state-house, in which are the public offices of the state, is surmounted by a cupola, and is a very handsome and spa- cious building. The city hall, built for city purposes, is also spacious and elegant ; it has two fronts, with porticos, — supported each by six massive columns. The American Asylum for the deaf and dumb, the Retreat for the insane, and Wash- ington College, are all beautifully located, in the immediate vicinity of the city. The population with- in the city limits, in September, 1S35, was nine thousand and eight hundred. " The American Asylum for the education and instruction of deaf and dumb persons, was founded by an association of gentlemen in Hart- ford, Conn., in 1S15. Their atten- tion was called to this important charity by a case of deafness in the family of one of their number. An interesting child of the late Dr. Cogswell, who had lost her hearing at the age of two years, and her speech soon after, was, under Prov- idence, the cause of its establish- ment. Her father, ever ready to sympathize with the afllicted, and prompt to relieve human suffering, embraced in hia plans for the edu- cation of his own daughter, all who might be similarly unfortunate. — The co-operation of the benevolent was easily secured, and measures were taken to obtain from Europe a knowledge of the difficult art, unknown in this country, of teach- ing written language through the medium of signs, to the deaf and dumb. For this purpose, the Rev. Thomas H. Gallaudet visited Eng- land and Scotland, and applied at the institutions in those countries for instruction in their system ; but meeting with unexpected difficul- ties, he repaired to France, and ob- tained, at the Royal Institution at Paris, those qualifications for an instructor of the deaf and dumb, which a selfish and mistaken poli- cy had refused him in Great Brit- ain. Accompanied by ]Mr. Laurent NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Clerc, liimsclf deaf and dumb, and for several years a successful teach- er under tlie Abbe Sicard, Mr. Gal- laudet returned to tliis country in 'Aug;ust, 1816. The Asylum had, in May preceding, been incorpora- ted by the state legislature. Some months were spent by IMessrs. Gal- laudet and Clerc in obtaining funds for the bcnctit of the inslitution, and in the spring of 1S17 the Asy- lum was opened for the reception of those for whom it was designed, and the course of instruction commenced with seven pupils. "As the knowledge of the in- stitution extended, and the facili- ties for obtaining its advantages were multiplied, the number of pu- pils increased from seven to one hundred and forty, which for seve- ral years past has not been miich above the average number ; and since its commencement, in 1817, to 1837, instruction has been imparted to four hundred and seventy-seven deaf and dumb persons. " In 1S19, Congress granted the in- stitution a townsliip of land in Ala- bama, tlie proceeds of which have been invested as a permanent fund. The principal building was erected in 1820, and the pupils removed to it in the spring of the following year. It is one hundred and thirty feet long, fifty feet wide, and, in- cluding the basement, four stories high. Other buildings have been subsequently erected, as the in- creasing number of pupils made it necessary ; the principal of which is a dining hall and workshops for the male pupils. Attached to the institution are eight or ten acres of land, which afibrd ample room for exercise, and the cultivation of veg- etables and fruits for the i)upils. " The system of instruction adopt- ed at this institution is substantially the same as that of the French school at Paris. It has, however, been materially improved and mod- ified by Mr. Gallaudet and his as- sociates. This system, and indeed every other rational system of teaching the deaf and dumb, is bas- ed upon the natural language of signs. By this we mean those ges- tures which a deaf and dumb per- son will naturally use to express his ideas, and to make known his wants previous to instruction. These gestures and signs are rather ^^/cfo- rial, that is, an exact outline of the object, delineated by the hands in the air ; or descriptive, giving an idea of an object by presenlitig some of its prominent and striking features ; or conventional, such as may have been agreed upon by a deaf and dumb person and his as- sociates. As there arc very few objects which can be expressed with suCScient clearness by the de- lineation of its outline alone, a de- scriptive sign is usually connected with it. Thus, in making a sign for a book, the outline is first delin- eated by the fore finger of both hands. To this is added the descrip- tive signs of opening a book, plac- ing it before the eyes, and moving the lips as in reading. It may therefore simplify the classificatioa of natural signs if the first two di- visions be united ; and it will be sufficiently accurate to say that all the signs used by the deaf and dumb are either descriptive or conven- tional. By far the greater part of these signs belong to the former class ; as it includes the signs for most common objects, actions and emotions. A deaf and dumb child constructs his language upon the same principle as the child who can hear ; that of imitation. " In the school- room, the instruc- tor makes use of natural signs to communicate ideas to his pupils, of systematic signs to enable them to translate their own into written lan- guage ; of the manual alphabet, or signs of the hand, corresponding to the letters of the alphabet ; and of written symbols to express the grammatical relations of words. " The pupils usually remain at NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the AsylHin four or five j^ears, in which time an intelligent clnhl will acquire a knowledge of the common operations of arithmetic, of geogra- phy, grammar, history, biograpliy, and of written language, so as to enable him to understand the Scrip- tures, and books written in a famil- iar style. He will of course be able to converse with others by writing, and to manage his own aiTaii-s as a farmer or mechanic. There are workshops connected with the in- stitution, in which the boys have the opportunit}' of learning a trade, and many of them, by devoting four hours each day to this object, be- come skillful workmen, and when they leave the Asylum find no dif- ficulty in supporting themselves. The annual charge to each pupil is one hundred dollars. " The department of instruction is under the control of the piincipal of the institution, who has also a general oversight of the other de- partments. The pupils are distrib- uted into eight or nine classes, the immediate care of which is com- mitted to the same number of as- sistant instructors. When out of school, the pupils are under the care of a steward and matron." Retreat for the Insane. " This institution is situated on a command- ing eminence, at the distance of a mile and a quarter, in a southwest- erly direction, from the State House in Hartford. It was opened April 1, 1824. The elevation overlooks an ample range of fertile country, presenting on every side a most in- teresting landscape, adorned with every beauty of rural scenery, that can be found in rich and culti- vated fields, and meadows of unri- valled verdure ; in extensive gioves and picturesque groups of forest, fruit and ornamental trees ; and above all, in the charming diversi- ty of level, sloping and undulating surfaces, terminating by distant bills, and more distant mountains. " This site was selected as one pre-eminently calculated to attract and engage the attention, and soothe and appease the morbid fancies and feelings of the patient whose fac- ulties are not sunk below or raised above the sphere of relations that originally existed. And if he is not beyond the reach of genial sen- sations, connected with external objects, he will undoubtedly feel the conscious evidence that tliis situa- tion most happily unites the tran- quilizing influence of seclusion and retirement, with the cheering effed of an animated picture of active life, continually passing in review before his eyes, while himself ig remote, and secure from the annoy- ance of its bustle and noise. "The edifice for the accommoda- tion of the patients, and those who have the care of them, is construct- ed of unhewn free-stone, covered with a smooth, white, water-proof cement. Its style of architecture is perfectly plain and simple, and interests only by its symmetrical beauty, and perhaps by the idea it impresses of durability and strength, derived from the massy solidity of its materials. Yet notwithstanding these, its general aspect is remark- ably airy and cheerful, from the amplitude of its lights, and the bril- liant whiteness of its exterior. The whole building is divided into com- modious and spacious apartments, adapted to various descriptions of cases, according to their sex, nature and disease, habits of life, and the wishes of their friends. The male and female apartments are entire- ly separated, and either sex is com- pletely secluded from the view of the other. Rooms are provided in both male and female apartments for the accommodation of the sick, where they are removed from any annoyance, and can continually re- ceive the kind attentions of their immediate relations and friends. Attached to the building are about seventeen acres of excellent land. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the principal part of which is laid out in walks, ornamental grounds and extensive gardens. With eacli wing and block of the building is connected a court-yard, encompass- ed by high fences, and handsomely laid out, designed to afford the ben- efit of exercise, pastime and fresh air, to those who cannot safely be allowed to range abroad." The mode of treatment at this institution is similar to that adopted at the .McLean Asylum, Charles- town, Mass. "TVashingfoyi College. This in- stitution was founded in 1826 It has two edifices of free stone ; one 143 feet long by 43 wide, and 4 sto- ries high, containing 4S rooms; the other 87 feet by 55, and 3 stories high, containing the chapel, libra- ry, mineralogical cabinet, philo- sophical chamber, laboratory and recitation rooms. See Register. The Charter Oak. This tree stands on the beautiful elevation which rises above the south mead- ows, a few rods north of the ancient seat of the Wyllys family. The tree is still in a vigorous state, and may flourish for another century. " That venerable tree, which concealed the charter of ourriglits," says a daughter of Secretary Wyl- lys, "stands at the foot of Wyllys hill. The first inhabitant of that name found it standing in the height of its glory. Age seems to have curtailed its branches, yet it is not exceeded in the height of its color- ing, or richness of its foliage. The trunk measures twenty one feet in circumference, and near seven in diameter. The cavity, which was the asylum of our charter, was near the roots, and large enough to ad- mit a child. Within the space of eight years, that cavity has closed, as if it had fulfillei! the divine pur- pose for which it had been reared." The story of the " Charter Oak" is thus told by Mr. Barber. " Sir Edmund Andros being ap- pointed the first governor-general over New England, arrived in Bos- ton in Dec. 1686. From this place he wrote to the colony of Connecti- cut to resign their charter, but with- out success. " ' The assembly met as usual, in October, and tiie gov- ernment continued according to charter, until the last of the month. About this time, Sir Edmund, with his suite and more than sixty regu- lar troop's, came to Hartford when the assembly were sitting, and de- manded the charter, and declared the government under it to be dis- solved. The assembly were ex- tremely reluctant and slow with re- spect to any resolve to surrender the charter, or with respect to any motion to bring it forth. The tra- dition is, that governor Treat strong- ly represented the great expense and hardships of the colonists in planting the country; the blood and treasure which they had ex- pended in defending it, both against the savages and foreigners ; to what hardships he himself had been ex- posed for that purpose ; and that it was like giving up iiis life, now to surrender the patent and privileges so dearly bouglit and so long enjoy- ed. The important affair was de- bated and kept in suspense until the evening, when the charter was brought and laid upon the table where the assembly were sitting. By this time great numbers of peo- ple were assembled, and men suffi- ciently bold to enterprise whatever might be necessary or expedient. The lights were instantly extin- guished, and one Capt. Wadsworfh, of Hartford, in the most silent and secret manner, carried off the char- ter, and secreted it in a large hol- low tree, fronting the house of Hon. Samuel Wyllys, then one of the magistrates of the colony. The people all appeared peaceable and orderly. The candles were offi- ciously re-lighted, but the patent was gone, and no discovery could NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. be made of it, or the persons who carried it away.' " West Hartford, or, as it was formerly called, West Division, is a fine tract of land. The inhabit- ants are mostly substantial farmers, and the general appearance of the place denotes an unusual share of equalized wealth and prosperity. The venerable Nathan Per- kins, D. D., still continues his la- bors in the ministry in this place. In 1833, his sixtieth anniversary sermon was published. In that ser- mon he says, " I am now the oldest oificiating minister of the gospel in this state, and, as far as I can learn, in the United States. And I can- not learn,from the history of church- es in Connecticut, that there has ever been an instance of one of its ministers preaching for sixty years uninterruptedly to the same con- gregation." Dr. Perkins stated, as we are in- formed, that from the commence- ment of his ministry, that in his church there had been one thou- sand deaths and one thousand-bap- tisms—that he had delivered four thousand written sermons, and three thousand extemporaneous ones, on other occasions of worship — that he had attended sixty ordinations and installations, and had preached 20 ordination sermons, twelve of which had been published by request ; that he had attended one hundred eccle- siastical councils, to heal difficulties in the churches, and that he had fitted for college one hundred and fifty students, and more than thirty for the gospel ministry. Hartland, Me. Somerset co. This excellent township is watered on its eastern boundary by one of the princqjal branches of "Sebasticook river. The inhabitants are principally engaged in agricultural pursuits, and the soil richly rewards them for their indus- try. Hartland produced 4,836 bushels of wheat in 1837, some wool and other valuable commodi- ties. It was incorporated in 1820. Population, 1837, 890. It lies 42 miles N. by E. from Augusta, and 18 N. E. from Norridgewock. Hartland, Vt. Windsor co. Timothy Lull was the father of this flourishing re- public. He took his family from Dummerston, up Connecticut river about 50 miles, in a log canoe, in 1763. He landed at the mouth of a beautiful stream, called LnWs Brook. His nearest neighbors were more than 20 miles distant. He commenced a settlement on Lull's Brook, and, after acquiring a hand- some property, died there at the age of 81. timothy Lull, jr., was the first child born in the town.— On the occasion of his birth, a mid- wife was drawn 23 miles on a hand sled. This is a rich farming town, pleas- antly diversified by hills and val- leys. Hartland produces many cat- tle : ten thousand sheep graze in its pastures. It lies on the vvest bank of Connecticut river. Water- queechy river, at the N. part of the town, and Lull's Brook, at the S., give it a water power of great val- ue. On these streams ai-e neat vil- lao-es and flourishing manufactur- ing establishments. Hartland lies 50* miles S. S. E. from Montpelier and 9 N. from Windsor. Popula tion, 1830, 2,503. Hartland, Ct. Hartford co. This town is 22 miles N. W. from Hartford. It lies in a mountainous part of the state : most of the land is cold and fit only for grazing. A branch of Farm- ington river passes through the town, and forms what is called Hartland hollow, a deep ravine, presenting some bold and pictur- esque scenery. Hartland was in- corporated in 1761. First settled, 1753. Population, 1830, 1,221. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Ilai-^'Bi-d, 31ass. Worcester co. This town was taken from Stow, Groton and Lan- caster, in 1732. It is washed on the W. side by Nashua river. It lies 30 iriiles N. W. from Boston, 20 N. E. from Worcester, and 13 W. from Concord. Here are two large ponds with line lish, and quar- ries of slate used for monuments. About 200 of that industrious sect, called shakers, reside here, and own a considerable tract of excellent land. They live about 3 miles N. E. from the centre of the town, and supply the market with a great va- riety of wares, fruits, seeds, herbs, &c. &,c., the product of their me- chanical ingenuity and horticultu- ral skill. There are three paper mills in Harvard, and manufactures of palm- leaf hats, boots, shoes, leather and grave stones: annual value about $40,000. Large quantities of hops liave been raised in this place. — Population, 1S37, 1,566. Ilai'AY'icIi, Mass., Barnstable co., on the S. side of Cape Cod, 14 miles E. from Barn- stable. Incorporated, 1694. Pop- ulation, 1830, 2,464; 1837,2,771. On Herring river, the outlet of Long pond, are cotton and other mills. Some vessels are built here and .some salt manufactuied. The product of the cod and mackerel fishery the year ending April 1, 1837, was .S33,000. Harwich is a pleasant town : the village makes a good appearance from the sea. Ilar'wiutoii, C't. Litchfield co. Har-win-ton de- rived its name from three syllables taken from the names of Hartford, Windsor and Farmington. It was first settled in 1731; incorporated, 1737. Population, 1830, 1,. 516. It lies 23 miles W. from Hartford, 40 N. by W. from New Ifavcn, and 8 1'. from Litchli-^ld. Harwinton is 16 situated on high ground, abounding with granite rocks and more lit for grazing than tillage. Hatfleld, Mass. Hampshire co. This is a weal- thy agricultural township, noted for its good soil ami line beef cattle. It lies on the W. side of Connecti- cut river, 5 nules N. from North- ampton, and .95 W. from Boston. — Incorporated, 1670. Pojjulation, 1837, 937. The manufactures of tlie town consist of corn brooms, boots, shoes, palm-leaf tiats, and car- riages ; annual value about $50,000. There is an elm tree in Hatfield which is said to measure, two feet from the ground, thirty four feet in circumference, HavcrliUl, ]V. H., Graflon co., is one of the shire towns. It lies 31 miles N. W. from Plymouth, and 70 N. N. W. from Concord. It is watered by Olive- rian and Hazen brooks. Haverhill is a pleasant town. The soil is suit- ed to every species of cultivation. There is a quarry of gi-anite suita- ble for mill stones and buildings, and a bed of iron ore^ on the Sv. side of Coventry, bordering this town. The principal village is at the S. W. angle of the town, and known by the name of Haverhill Corner. There is a beautiful common in this village, laid out in an oblong square, around which the buildings regu- lai'ly stand. The site is a handsome elevation, overlooking tlie adjacent country many miles N. and S., and not less than 6 or 7 miles E. and W. From the street, the ground slopes M'ith unusual elegance to the W., and is succeeded by broad intei-- vales. The prospect here is de- lightful. There is another village at the N. W. angle of the town, on a street nearly a ndle in length, straight and very level. Haverhill was granted, 1764. Its first settlement was made in 1764, NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. by Capt. John Hazen, who settled on the Little Ox Bow, near where there had formerly hecn an Indian fort and burying ground, and where many Indian skulls and relics have been found. Several of the early settlers were from Newbury and Haverhill, Mass., and from the last place, this town derived its name. Its tbrmer name was Lower Coos. Hon. Moses Dow was one of the most distinguished citizens of this place. Hon. Charles Johnstoiv, who died March .5, 1813, aged 76, resid- ed here. He was a valuable offi- cer in the revolution, and was ma- ny years judge of probate in Graf- ton county. Hon. James Woodward and Hon. Ezekiel Ladd were among the early settlers, and were judges of the old county court. Population, in 1830, 2,153. Haverhill, Mass. Essex CO. This ancient, respect- able and flourishing manufacturing town, lies on the N. side of the Merrimack river, at the head of navigation, and united to Bradford by two beautiful bridges. It is 3(» miles N. from Boston, 31 N. N. W. from Salem, 12 W. by S. from Newbu- ryport, 18 N. E. from Lowell, 30 S. W. from Portsmouth, N. H. and 40 S. E. from Concord, N. H. Lit- tle river passing through the town affords a good hydraulic power, on which are manufacturing establish- ments of various kinds. The man- ufactures consist of woolen goods, leather, boots, shoes, hats, shovels, spades, forks, hoes, chairs, cabinet ware, combs, ploughs, tin ware, vessels, palm-leaf hats, shoe lasts, spirits, morocco leather, chaises and harnesses : total amount the year ending April 1, 1837, $1,357,-526. Haverhill is delightfully located, handsomely built, and has been the birth place and residence of many of the most valuable and distin- guished citizens of New England. Haverhill is so situated as to com- mand an extensive inland trade : it is easily approached from Boston by the Andover and Wilmington rail-road, which is extending to Ex- eter, N. H., and from thence to Maine. Haverhill, the Indian Pentuck- ett, was first settled in 1641 : it was a frontier settlement for nearly half a centurjr and suffered great calam- ities by savage depi-edations. It was incorporated in 1645. — Population, 1820, 3,070; 1830, 3.- 896 ; 1837, 4,726. Ha^vley, Blass. Franklin CO. Hawley is on el- evated ground, and watered by branches of Deerfield river. The soil is good for grazing, and feeds about 3,000 sheep. A consider- able quantity of leather is tanned in this town. Incorporated, 1792. Population, 1837, 995. Hawley has good iron ore and some iron works. It lies 107 miles W. by N. from Boston, and 14 W. by S. from Greenfield. Haj'iiesville, Me. Washington county. See " Dowc East." HcatliL, Mass. Franklin go. A mountainous township good for grazing sheep, of which 2,312 were kept in 1837. There arc in Heath some manufac- tures of leather, boots, shoes and palm-leaf hats. Incorporated, 1785. Population, 1837, 953. It lies 125 miles W. N. W. from Boston, and 13 W. N. W. from Greenfield. Heliron, Me. Oxford CO. This is a good farm- ing town, lying S. E. from Paris about 7 miles, and 42 W. S. W . fiom Augusta. Incorporated, 1792. Population, 1837, 972. Hel>ron, N. H., Grafton co., lies 9 miles S. W, NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. from Plymouth, and 40 N. W. from Concoi-il. A coiisiiicral)le part of Newfound lake lies in the S. E. part of this town. It has no river, nor any important streams. Near- ly one Iiaif of this town was inchi- ded in the grant of Cockermouth, now Groton. The remaining part was taken from Plymouth. It was incorporated, 1792. Population in 1830, 533. Hebrou, Ct. Tolland co. Hop river, a branch of the Willimantic, waters this town. The village of Hebron, with its Gothic church, 20 miles S. E. from Hartford, and 14 S. from Tolland, is pleasant and commands a good prospect. There are in the town 2 cotton, 1 woolen, and 1 paper, mills ; a large iron furnace and other man- ufactories. The surface of the town is hilly, but fei-tile. North pond in the S. part of the town is a handsome sheet of watei-. Hebron was first settled, 1704. Incorpora- ted, 1707. Population, 18.30,1,939. Heiiniker, JV. H. Merrimack co. It is 23 miles N. TV. from Amherst, and 15 W. from Concord. Contoocook river passes easterly through its centre, and di- vides the town into nearly equal portions of territory and population. Its course is rather circuitous, and in many places presents scenes of considerable interest and beauty. Few places afford better prospects for the successful operation of wa- ter machinery than this. There are several ponds of considerable size. Long pond is the largest, be- ing between 1 and 2 miles in length, and from 40 to 80 rods wide — situa- ted 1 mile N.of the centre village. Craney hill is the principal eleva- tion, and embraces a large portion of territory on the S. of the town. It is mostly in a state of cultivation. The soil of the hills is favorable for wheat— the valleys produce good crops of corn. Hcnniker was granted in 1752, under the name of J\/^tiiiiber 6. Its settlement commenced in 17fil. It was incorporated in 1768, when it received its present name from Gov. Wentworlh, in honor of his friend Henniker, probably John Henni- ker, Esq., a merchant in London and a member of the British parliament at that time. Population, in 1830, 1,725. Ilerinoii, Me. Penobscot co. A good township of land, 7 miles W. from Bangor. A large pond and the Sowadabscook river water its S. W. corner. In 1837, 1,870 bushel of wheat was raised. Incorporated, 1814. Pop- ulation, 1837, 535. Iligligate, Vt. Franklin co. This town lies on the E. side of Lake Champlain, at the N. W. corner of New Eng- land, and of the United States. It is 60 miles N. W. from Montpe- lier, and 12 N. from St. Albans. First settled, about 1784. The soil is generally sandy, in some parts swampy. Bog iron ore, of a good quality, is found here. There are many mill privileges in Highgate, particularly at a fall of the river Missisque, where are iron works, and other manufactories. The scenery at this place is quite wild and picturesque. Population, 1830, 2,038. Highgate is a place of con- siderable trade with Canada, and down the lake. Hill, Bf. H. Grafton co. This town is 24 miles N. N. W. from Concord, and 44 S. S. E. from Haverhill. It is watered by Pemigewasset and Smith's rivers, and several small streams. Eagle pond is the only one of note. Ragged mountain is a considerable elevation, and but little inferior to Kearsarge. Viewed from the sum- mit of the neighboring hills, this town appears very uneven, yet NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. there are many fine tracts converted into productive farms. The soil in some parts is rich and fertile — it is generally good. There is at the S. E. section of the town, a "flourish- ing village, situated on a spacious street 1 mile in length. This town was granted Sept. 14, 1753, to 87 proprietoi-s, who held their fii'st meeting at Chester, and as the greater part of the inhabitants belonged to that place, it was called New Chester; which name it retain- ed until Jan. 1837, when it was changed to the name of Hill, in compliment to the then governor Hill. The first settlement was in 1768. In Dec. 1820, six children of Mr. William Follansbee were consum- ed in the flames of his house, while he and his wife were absent. In- corporated, 1778. Population, 1830, 1,090. Hillsljorougli County, N. H. , Amherst is the shire town. Hills- borough has Merrimack county on, the N., Kockingham on the E., the jtate of Massachusetts on the S., and Cheshire county on the W. The surface of this county is gen- 3i'ally uneven, though there are but j few lofty mountains. Lyndebo- rough mountain, in the township of Lyndeborough, the Unconoonock, in Gotfstown, Crotched, in Frances- town and Society Land, are of con- siderable altitude. This section of New Hampshire is well watered. The noble and ma- jestic Merrimack passes its south- eastern border. At Nashua, the Nashua, a beautiful stream from Massachusetts, discharges its wa- ters into the Merrimack. North of the Nashua, the Souhegan and Pis- cataquog, streams of much value and consequence to the manufacturing interests, discharge themselves in- to the Merrimack ; the former in the township of Merrimack, the latter in Bedford. Part of a large collection of water, denominated a lake, the Massabesick, on the E. boundary of Manchester. Besides these there are numerous ponds, interspersed through the whole ex- tent of territory. Some of the largest of these are Gregg's pond, in Antrim, Pleasant pond, in Fran- ceslovvn, Babboosuck pond, in Am- herst, and Potanipo, in Brookline. There arc several mineral springs which have been found serviceable in cutaneous affections, but no one has yet acquired general celebrity. Minerals have been found in vari- ous places, but not in great abun- dance. This county possesses many advan- tages for manufactuiing establish- ments, and it is gratifying to find that many of its citizens are turn- ing their attention to this branch of national and individual wealth. The settlement of this county was made at Nashua, lately Dun- stable, some years before the war with king Philip, in 1(>75. It was constituted a county by an act of the General Assembly, 19 March. 1771.. It received its name from the Earl of Hillsborough, one of the privy council of George III. The population, in 1775, was 13,- 132; in 1790, 24,536; in 1800,31,- 260; in 1810, 34,410; in 1820, 35,761; and in 1830, 37,762. In 1837, there were 45,511 slieep in this county. Killstoorougli, N. H. Hillsborough co. It is 23 miles N. W. from Amherst, 24 W. S. W. fiom Concord. This town is well watered. Contoocook river passes through the S. E. corner, and affoi-ds several excellent water privileges. Hillsborough river has its source from ponds in Washington ; runs in a S. E. course through the whole ex- tent of Hillsboi'ough, receiving the outlets of several ponds on the E., and forms a junction with the Con- toocook, on the S. line of tliis town. The land here is uneven, but it af- fords many good farms. There is NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. a pleasant village on the 2d New Hanipsliire turnpike, which passes N. W. through this town, contain- ing a number of dwelling houses, stores, mills, and a cotton and wool- en factory. Hillsborough was formerly known by the name of A'ttmbtr 7 of fron- tier towns. The tirst settlement wa3 made in 1741. The first chil- dren born in Hillsborough were John JNrCalley and Mary Gibson, who intermarried, and received as a gift a tract of land, from the prin- cipal proprietor. It was incorpo- rated in 1772. Population, 1S30, 1,792. Hiuesliurgli, Vt. Chittenden co. Piatt river and Lewis creek water this town. A part of the town is mountainous, but the soil is generally very good, particularly for grazing. About .9,000 sheep are kept here, and some products of the farms are ex- ported. Hinesburgh contains a pleasant village, and numerous manufacturing operations are found on its streams. First settled about 1785. Population, 1830, 1,G69. It lies 13 miles S. S. E. from Burling- ton, and 26 W. from Monfpelier. Hingliam, Mass. Plymouth co. A pleasant town on Boston harbor, and an agreeable resort for citizens and strangers. It lies 11 miles S. E. from Boston, by water, and 14 by land. Hing- ham cove is 5 miles S. W. fi-om Nantaskct beach, about 6 W. from Cohassct harbor, and 24 N. N. W. from Plymouth. First settled, 16.33. Incorporated, 1635. Population, in 1830, 3,357 ; 1837, 3,445. Major-general Benjamin Lin- coln, was born in this town, Jan. 23, 1733; he died May 9, 1810. This town is remarkable for its healthiness and longevity. Dur- ing 50 years, 8 persons died in one house, whose average age was 84 I years. IC* About 80 sail of vessels belong to this place, which are engaged in the cod and mackerel fishery, and coasting trade ; — aggregate tonnage about 5,000 tons. In this town is an ii'on foundry, considerable ship building, a steam bucket factory ; and large quanti- ties of other wooden wares are manufactured, and some salt. The amount of manufactures of Hingham, for the year ending April 1, 1837, was .f 237^078. They con- sisted of leather, boots, shoes, iron castings, hats, ploughs, cabinet, tin and wooden wares, silk, salt, ves- sels, umbrellas, spars and blocks, cordage, carriages, hammers, and hatchets. The product of the cod and mackerel fisherj-, the same year, was $113,700. Total amount of the fishery and manufactures .'«;350,778. Derby Academy, a free school, and the Willard Private Academy, are highly respectable seminaries, and promise great privileges to pa- rents. A commodious steam-boat plies between this and Boston, in sum- mer months, two or three times a day. The hotels are large, and furnish excellent accoijimodations. Baker's Hill presents extensive and delightful views of Boston harbor. An excursion to Hingham is very pleasant. Hinsdale, N. H. Cheshire co. It is 75 miles S. W. bj' W. from Concord. It is well watered with springs and rivulets of the purest water. The Connec- ticut washes its western border; and the Ashuelot runs through the centre, forming a junction with the Connecticut, a little below the great bend, called Cooper's point. Kil- burn brook Hses in Pisgah moun- tain, runs S. and fails into Ashuelot river. Ash-swamp brook rises in West river mountain, runs a S. W. course, and falls into the Connecti- cut, near the side of Hinsdale's fort. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. There are several islands in the Con- necticut in this town. On the N. line of Hinsdale, is West river mountain, which extends from the banks of the Connecticut, E. across the whole width of the town. Its greatest elevation is at the W. end. President Dvvight states the height above low Water mark to be from 800 to 900 feet. In this mountain is found iron ore, and some other min- erals and fossils. South of Ashue- lot, is Stebbins' hill, a tract of ex- cellent land, and principally in a high state of cultivation. The in- tervales here are extensive, and of an excellent quality. On the point of a hill, not far from Con- necticut river, there is to be seen the remains of an Indian fortifica- tion, constructed prior to the set- tlement of the town. There is a deep trench drawn across the hill, to separate it from the plain back, and is continued to the river. Hinsdale was incorporated in 175.3. It was originally a part of Northiield, and was settled as early as 168.3. The former name of this place was Fort Dummer and Bridg. man's Fort. This town encoun- tered all the difficulties of the In- dian wars, and- struggled with oth- er hardships incident to frontier settlements, begun in the wilder- ness and remote from cultivated lands. Population, 1S30, 937. Hinsdale, Mass. Berkshire co. Hinsdale is the source of a branch of Housatonick river. It is an elevated township, and well adapted for grazing. — There are two woolen mills in Hinsdale, and manufactures of boots, shoes, leather, hats, chairs, and cabinet ware : total amount in one year ^86,550. The value of 11,020 fleeces of wool, sheared in Hinsdale in 1S37, weighina; 32,116 pounds, was $19,266. This town was incorporated in 1804. Poi)ula- tion, 1837, 832. It lies 125 miles W. .from Boston, and 15 N. N. W. from Lenox. Hiram, Me. Oxford CO. This town lies on both sides of a branch of Saco riv- er, 86 miles W. S. W. from Augus- ta, and 40 S. W. from Paris. The townsliip is fertile and productive of wool and wheat. Incorporated, 1807. Population, 1830, 1,148. Hodgdon, Me. Washington co. Incorporated, 1832: 179 miles from Augusta. In 1S37, with a population of 552, it produced 3,184 bushels of wheat. See " Down East." Holdeu, Mass. Worcester co. This town is fine- ly watered by branches of Black- stone and Nashua rivers. It has a valuable water power on Quinipox- et river. It has some good mead- ow land on the borders of the streams. There are S cotton and 2 woolen mills in the town, and manufactui'es of leather, boots, shoes, straw bonnets, and palm-leaf hats ; total amount of the manufactures for the year ending April 1, 1837, $201,960. Holden is 48 miles W. liom Boston, and 6 N. W. from Worcester. Incorporated, 1740. — Population, 1837, 1,789. Holderiiess, W. H. Grafton co. It is 65 miles N. W. from Portsmouth, and 40 N. from Concord. The soil is hard and not easily cultivated, but when sub- dued is tolerably productive. From the sap of the sugar maple, a con- siderable quantity of sugar is made. The Pemigewasset imparts a por- tion of its benefits to this place, and there are various other streams which serve to fertilize the soil, and to furnish mill seats. Squam river, the Qutlct of Squam ponds, runs in a S. W. direction and empties into the Pemigewasset near the S. W. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. angle of the town. This stream affords excellent mill privileges, having on it 2 paper mills and oth- er machinery. There arc 3 ponds or lakes. The road from Plymouth through this place to Winnepisiogee lake, and along the horders of that lake to Wolfeborough is highly interest- ing ; displaying scenery which is scarcely equalled in this part of our country. Holderness was lii-st granted in 1751. The tirst settle- ment was made about the year 1763. Population, 1830, 1,429. Holland, Vt. Orleans CO. This is an excellent township of land, producing in great abundance all the varieties common to the climate. Previous to the year 1800, it was a wilderness. It is bounded N. by Canada: 56 miles N. N. E. from Montpelior and 20 N. E. from Irasbuigh. Population, 1830, 432. Holland, Mass. Hampden co. Holland was tak- en from Brinifield in 1785. It lies 70 miles S. \V. by W. from Boston, and 20 E. by S. from Springfield. Population, 1837, 4.95. Holland has several ponds, and is otherwise watered by Quinnebaugh river. There is a cotton mill in the town, and 658 sheep. HoUis, Me. York CO. This town lies on the W. bank of Saco river, and contains numerous mill sites. Incorporated, 1812. Population, 1837, 2,374. It lies 72 miles S. W. from Augusta, and 30 N. from York. Hollis, K. H. Hillsborough co. It is 8 miles S. from Amherst, and 36 S. from Concord. Nashua river waters the S. E. part, and Nisitissit crosses the S. W. extremity. There are 4 ponds, known by the name of Flint's, Penichook, Long and Rocky ponds. There is a pleasant village near the centre of the town, on a site somewhat elevated. The ori- ginal name of Hollis was J\lsitis- sit, its Indian name. The first settlement was made in 1731. It was incorporated in April, 1746. — The name is either derived from Tliomas Hollis, a distinguished ben- efactor of Harvard college, or from the Duke of New Castle. Popu- lation, 1830, 1,501. Holliston, Mass. Middlesex co. First settled, 1710. Incorporated, 1724. Population in 1837, 1,775. It lies 24 miles S. W. by W. from Boston, and 21 S. from Concord. There is a woolen mill in the town, and some manufactures of boots, shoes, leather, chairs and cabinet ware, combs, ploughs, straw bonnets, books, clothing, wagons and harnesses: total value in one year .$335,948. The value of boots and shoes amounted to $241,626, employing 461 hands. Holliston is watered by a small branch of Charles river. Holmes' Hole, Mass. See Tishury. Hooksett, ]V. H. Merrimack co. It lies nine miles S. S. E. from Concord. The river Merrimack, whose course here is nearly N. and S., passes through this town a little W. of the centre. Here are those beautiful falls, known by the name of Hooksett Falls. — The descent of water is about 16 feet perpendicular in SO rods. A high rock divides the stream, and a smaller rock lies between that and the western shore. There is a pleasant village on the W. side of the river. There is a strong and well built bridge over Merrimack river. Hooksett canal is in this town. It is 1-4 of a mile long — the fall is 16 feet perpendicular. Hook- sett was detached from Chester, GofTstown and Dunbarton, and in- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. corporated as a separate town in June, 1822. On the E. side of tlie river is an extensive cotton factory, owned by the Amoskeag Company. Population, 1830,880. Hoosack Kiver and Mountain. Two branches of the Hoosack, Hosick, or Hoosick river, rise in New England : one in the high hinds in the county of Berkshire, Mass. ; the other in the mountain- ous tracts of Bennington county, Vt. These branches unite near Hoosack Falls, in the state of New York, about 3 miles W. of the cel- ebrated Bennington battle ground. Hoosack river meets the Hudson at Schagthicoke, 15 miles N. of Troy, N. Y. This stream, in many places, is exceedingly rapid in its course, and affords a great number of mill sites. Hoosack mountain lies princi- pally in Clarksburgh and Berkshire, Mass., and is the source of a branch of Hoosack river. Its elevation is from 1,500 to 2,000 feet from its base. I Kope, Me. Waldo CO. Hope is a township of choice land, having Camden and Megunticook lake on its south-east- ern border. It lies 44 miles E. S. E. from Augusta, and 16 .S. by W. from Belfast. Hope produced in 1837, 3,142 bushels of wheat. Pop- ulation, same year, 1,733. Incoi- porated, 1804. Hopfeinton, Ti. H. Merrimack co. It is 28 miles N. from Amherst, 7 W. from Concord, 46 N. E. from Keene, 30 S. E. from Newport, 50 \V. from Portsmouth, and 65 N. N. W. from Boston. Con- toocook river flows from Henniker into the south-westerly part of this town, and meanders in a N. E. di- rection. In its course it receives Warner and Blackwater rivers, and several large brooks, and empties into Merrimack river at Concord. On these streams are some valuable tracts of intervale and meadow lands' The principal village in Hopkinton is 7 miles from the state-house in Concord. In this town the county jail is located. In the W. part of the town is a thriving village on the Contoocook river, known as HilVs Bridge, or Contoocookville, where is a valuable water power, and several mills. Hopkinton was granted Jan. 16, 1735, to John Jones and others, and was called JK'umber 5, and afterwards J\~ew- Hopkinton. The first settlement was made about 1740, by emigrants from Hopkinton, Mass. This town sufTei'ed from In- dian depredations. Population in 1830, 2,474. Ilopkintou, Mass. Middlesex county. Branches of Charles and Mill rivers rise in this town, on which are manufacturing establishments. There are 3 cot- ton mills in Hopkinton, and manu- factures of boots and shoes, ($152,- 300,) leather, ploughs, and straw bonnets : total value, the vear end- ing April 1, 1837, .$217,550. The town was incorporated in 1715. Population, 1830, 1,809 ; 1837, 2,166. The mineral spring in this town has become celebrated. Jt con- tains carbonic acid, and carbonate of lime and iron. It is situated near White Hall pond, which abounds in fine fi.sh of various kinds. The Boston and Worcester rail road passes within 3 1-2 miles of it, at Westborough, and it is 7 miles from the Blackstone canal, at North- bridge. It is 30 miles W. S. W. from Boston, 14 E. by S. from Wor- cester, and 30 N. by AV. from Pro- vidence, R. I. There is a large and convenient hotel at this place, at which visitors for health or plea- sure are kindly entertained. A trip to Hopkinton springs is both plea- sant and fashionable. i NEW EXGLAXD GAZETTEER. Hopkintoii, K. I. Washington co. Wood river, a valuable mill stream, passes througli this town, on which are cotton and woolen mills, iron works, and vari- ous other manufactories. The soil of the town is generally well adapt- ed for grazing, and the cultivation of grain. It produces large quanti- ties of fruit and excellent cider. Shad and alewives arc taken in Pawcatuek river. There arc seve- ral ponds within the town. Con- siderable wood and timber are sent to market from this place. Hopkinton City, at the south part of the town, on the Tomma- quaug branch of Charles river, is verj' pleasant and flourishing. It lies 35 miles S. W. from Provi- dence, and 15 W. from South Kingston. Hopkinton was lirst set- tled in 1<560. Incorporated, 1757. Population, 1S30, 1,777. Houltoii, Me. Washington co. This town is situated on the east line of tlie state and of the United States, on the border of the Province of New Brunswick. It lies 120 miles N. N. E. from Bangor, and about 75 W. N. W. from Frederickton, the capital of New Brunswick. The town was first settled in ISOS, and for twenty years it was entirely cut ofT from all communication with the western part of the state by a dense wilderness of nearly 100 miles in extent. In 1829, a military post, the "Han- cock Barracks," was established here by the U. S. government, and in 1834 the military and state roads between Bangor and Houlton were completed and opened for travel. The great thoroughfare between the United States and the British Province of New Brunswick is through this town. The loads be- tween Bangor and Houlton are" ex- cellent: stages pass and repass from Bangor through Houlton to Frede- rickton, thre« times a week. Fred- erickton is SO miles N. N. W. from St. Johns. A good road between Houlton and Calais, on the river St. Croix, about 90 miles distant, is now open for travel. This town is well watered by branches of Me- duxnekeag river, which empties into the St. John's. The garrison is located about a mile noi'th of the village, and has generally contain- ed four companies of infantry. In this tow^n the courts of probate arc held, and the oflice of registry of deeds kept for the northern district of Washington county. The soil of Houlton and its vicin- ity is of a supeiior quality. Twen- ty-five bushels of wheat to the acre is an average crop : 40 bushels to the acre is frequently obtained. — Houlton, with a population of 6{>7, raise(l'^,869 bushels of wheat in the year 1837. We have heard it is said, that per- sons might go so far " down east" as to "jump ofT." If Houlton is the jumping off place, we advise some of our western brethren to go and view the precipice. Ilousatonick River. The sources of this river are in the towns of Lanesborough and Windsor, Berkshire county, Mass. The two branches meet at Pitts- ficld, where the river forms ; it then passes south, through Berkshire county, and enters the state of Con- necticut. Aftermeandcring through the county of Litchfield, in that state, it se|)arates the counties of New Haven and Fairfield, and meets the tide water at Derby, 14 miles above it's entrance into Long Island Sound. The source of this mountain stream is more than 1,000 feet above the ocean ; and in its course, of nearly 150 miles, it af- fords numerous mill sites, and pre- sents many pleasant and well cul- tivated towns. The volume of wa- ter of this river is not very large, except in seasons of freshet, when NEAV ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the rains from tlie mountains that environ its borders, inundate the valleys and greatly fertilize the soil. The scenery on the Hou?atpnick is exceedingly beautiful ; in some places it is enchanting. The roman- tic cataract at Canaan, Conn., of 60 feet pei-pendicular, is Avell worthy the notice of travellers. The In- dian name of th^is ' river, srgnifies over the mountains. A vocabula- rj^ of Indian names, so heautifui and expressive, would be not only cu- rious hut valuable. Hovi'laiid, M«. Penobscot co. This is a large township of good land, in which the Piscataquis and Seboois rivers form a junction : at the mouth of the fo;-- mer, about 50 rods from the Penob- scot, are several saw mills. The banks of the river are low and Ve- rj!^ beautiful. Rowland was incor- porated in 1826. It lies 117 miles N. E. from Augusta, and 34 N. from Bangor. Population, 1830, 329 ; 1837, 507. Hubltardstoii, Vt« Rutland co. Elizabeth Hickok, the daughter of Elizabeth and Uriah Hickok, was the first white child born in this town. This event oc- curred in 1774. The face of the town is uneven, and in some parts mountainous. It is watered by se- veral ponds, the largest of which, Ijing partly in Sudbury, is Grego- n/s j)ond, the outlet of which is called Hubhardston river. This river empties into Lake Champlain at West Haven, and is an excellent mill stream. The village at the northwesterly part of the town is pleasant and flourishing : it con- tains mills for the manufacture of various articles. Hubhardston lies 50 miles S. W. from Montpelier, and 10 N. W. from Rutland. Population, 1830, 863. Iliibbardston, Mass. Worcester co. Hubhardston is on elevated ground, and the source of several branches of Ware river. There is much unimproved water power in the town. There are con- siderable tracts of valuable mead- ow land, and the uplands are good for grazing. It was incorporated in 1737. Population, 1837, 1,780. The manufactures of the town con- sist o^ copperas, leather, boots,shoes, palm-leiif hats, chairs, cabinet and wooden wares. Hubhardston lies 54 miles W. from Boston, and 22 S. from TV'orcester. Mudsoii, ]V. H. Hillsborough co. This town lies 17 miles S. E. from Amherst, and 33 S. from Concord. The land here is of easy cultivation. On the river are fine intervales, of a deep rich soil. Distant from the river, the land isJiilly and somewhat broken. There are two ponds, known by th% nanje of Little Massabesick, and Otiernick ponds. This town was included in the grant of Dunstable, and was settled as early as 1710. The first settlements were made on the banks of the river, where the Indians had cleared fields for culti- vating corn. The first inhabitants lived in garrisons. ArVhile the men were abroad in the lields and forests, the women and children were lodg- ed in these places of security. Near the Indian cornfields have been found cinders of a blacksmith's forge, which have led to the con- jecture that they employed a smith to manufacture their implements of war and agriculture. Incorporated, 1746, by the name of Nottingham- West, which it retained until July 1, 1830, when it was changed to Hudson. Population in 1830, 1,282. Hull, Mass. Plymouth co. Hull was first set- tled about the year 1625. Incor- porated, 1644. Population, 1837, 180. This town comprises the pen- insula of Nantasket, which forms the S. E. side of Boston harbor. It NEW ENGLAND GAZr.TTEER. extends N. by W. from Cohasset, 5 miles, and is celebrated for its beau- tiful beach, 4 miles in length, and for its shell tish and sea fowl. The town lies between two hills of fine land, near point Alderton, opposite Boston light-house. It lies 9 miles E. 8. E. from Boston, by water, and 22 by land, via Hingham. On one of the hills in this place, is a well 90 feet in depth, which is frcfjuently almost full of water. Capital in- vested in the manulacture of salt, $12,500. Hull is remarkable for the una- nimity which always prevails i.niong its inhabitants in their deliberative assemblies, and for a spirit of com- promise manifest on all occasions in their selection of public servants. Iluntiiigtou, A't. Chittenden co. First settled, 1786. Population, in 1830, 929.— Huntington lies 20 miles W. from Montpelier, and 1.5 S. E. from Burl- ington. Huntington river passes through this town;, it is a branch of Onion river, is rapid in its course, aHbrding several towns an abund- ant water power. The soil of Hun- tington is j)oor : its surface is gen- erally too hilly for cultivation. — Camel's Back mountain lies in the eastei-n part of the town. Hnutingtou, Ct. Fairfield co. This is a t&wnship of uneven surface, but well adapt- ed to agricultural purposes, to which the inhabitants are i)rincipally de- voted. Huntington was incorpora- ted, in 1789. It lies 4 miles W. from Derby Landing, 12 N. E. from Fairtield, and 12 W. fiom New Haven. Population, 1830, 1,371. Hj'annis Ilarbor, Mass. See Barnstable. Hyde Park, A't. Lamoille CO. County town. The Lamoille, Green, and other rivers give this town a great water power. some of which is advantageously improved. The soil is generally of a good quality and easily cultiva- ted. It lies 24 miles N. from IVIont- ])elier, and 32 N. E. from Burling- ton. Population, 1S30, 823. First settled, 1787. Indian Rivei-s. Indian river. Me., Washington county, is a small stream in the town of Addison. ^ Indian stream, N. H., Coos coun- ty, is the principal and most north- erly source of Connecticut river, rising in the highlands near the N. limit of the state, and pursuing al- most a direct S. W. course to its junction with the E. branch flow- ing from lake Connecticut. Indian river, Vt., rises in. Ru- pert, and falls into the Pawlet. An- other stream of this name, in Vt., rises in Essex, and falls into Col- chester bay. ludiau Stream Territory. Is a tract in New Hampshire N of lat. 45°, extending to the British possessions in L. Canada. It was surveyed in 1805, and contains IgO,- S63 acres. Lake Connecticut and several considei-able ponds are sit- uated within this tract. Industry, Me. Franklin co. This town borders N. W. on Sandy river, and is a valuable tract of land. It lies 32 miles N. W. from Augusta, and is bounded S. W. by Farmington. Industry was incorporated in 1803: it has a pleasant village, and raised, in 1837, 6,078 bushels of wheat, with a population of 1,014. Ips'wich, Mass. Essex CO. This is one of the shire towns of the county, and a port of entry, on a river of the same name, sometimes called Jlga- vaviAhe Indian name of the place. Ipswich village is very pleasant, and the counlrv around it is well NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. cultivated, and beavitifully varie- gated. There is a cotton mill in the town, and a number of vessels are engaged in the coasting trade and fishery. The manufactures consist of cotton goods, hosiery, vessels, leather, boots, shoes, chairs, and cabinet ware: — total annual amount, about $120,000. Ipswicli is 12 miles N. by E. from Salem, 10 S. from Newbury port, and 26 N. E. by N. from Boston. First settled, 1033. Incorporated, 1631. Population, 1820, 2,553 : 1837, 2,- 855. Ira, Vt. Rutland co. This township is elevated: it contains good land for rearing cattle : it has about 5,000 sheep. Castleton river and Ira brook wash a part of the town, but afford no valuable mill privileges. Ira lies 60 miles S. S. W. from Montpelier, and 8 S. W. from Rut- land. Population, 1830, 442. IrastaiirgU, Vt. Shire town of Orleans county. This township was granteil to Ira Allen and others, in 1781. It was first settled in 1799. Population, 1830, 860. It lies 40 miles N. by E. from Montpelier, and 30 N. by W. from Danville. The surface of the town is undulating, with an easy soil to cultivate, and general- ly fertile. Black and Barton riv- ers water the town, but move too sluggishly to produce any valuable power. Isinglass K.ivci*, N. II<, Takes its rise from Long pond in Barrington, and Bow pond in Strafford, and, after receiving the watei-s of several other ponds, unites with the Cocheco near the S. part of Rochester. Isles of Slioals. These islands, 8 miles from the mouth of Portsmouth liarbor, N. H. are seven in number, viz : Hog, Smutty Nose, Star, Duck, White, Malaga, and Londonner islands. Hog contains 350 acres of rock, and its greatest elevation is 57 feet above high water mark. Smutty Nose contains about 250 acres of rock and soil — greatest elevation 45 feet. Star island contains about 180 acres of rock and soil, and its height is 55 feet. These islands, as a town, are called Gosj)ort. Star and Smutty Nose are inhabited by fishermen, who carry on considerable business in their way ; supplying Portsmouth and the neighboring towns with fresh fish, aiid sending large quan- tities of cured fish to Boston and other places. The celebrated dun fish are found here, which have heretofore been considered a dis- tinct species of the cod. They differ however from the common cod only in the circumstance of their being caught and cured in winter. Star island and Smutty Nose are connected by a sea ivall, built at the expense of government, for the purpose of breaking a strong south east current passing between them, and forming a safe anchor- age on the north west side of it. These objects have been attained, and the miniature fleet of the Shoal- ers, riding at anchor in tliis artifi- cial harbor, is no unpleasant sight. Smutty Nose and Malaga are con- nected by a sea wall, built at the expense of Mr. Haley, " the King of the Shoals." This wall, 14 rods in length, 13 feet in height, and from 20 to 30 feet in width, effec- tually secures Haley's inlet and wharf from the easterly storms, although the waves not unfrequent- ly break over it in a severe storm. These islands are composed of ledges of gneiss, bearing evidence of their igneous origin, as they are often traversed by veins of quartz, trap, and iron stone. There are a few spots of dry soil upon them under cultivation. The Shoals are a pleasant resort for water parties, and their delightful NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEEU. bracino; air, cannot be otlierwise than advantageous to tlio«e who are in want of pure sea breezes. The present population is about 100. These islands were discovered by the celebrated John Smith, in 1614, and were named by him Smith's Isles. The line between Maine and New Hampshire passes through these islands, leaving the largest on the side of Maine. Up- on all of them are chasms in the rocks, having the appearance of being caused by earthquakes. The most remarkable is on Star island, (Gosport) in which one BcUy Moody secreted herself when the Indians visited the isLmd and took away many female captives ; and thence called to this day " Betty JMoody's hole." For more than a century previous to the revolution, these islands were populous, containing from Zm to COO souls. They had a court-house on Hfiley's island ; a meeting-house, first on Hog isl- and, and afterwards on Star island. From 3 to 4 thousand quintals fish were annually caught and cured here, and 7 or S schooners, besides numerous boats, were employed in the business. The business has since very greatly decreased. William Peppcrell and a Mr. Gib- bons, from Topsham, England, were among the first settlers at the Shoals; the former an ancestor of the cele- brated Sir William Peppcrell. A woman, of the name of Pul- sey, died in Gosport, in 1795, aged 90. In her life time she kept two cows. The hay on which they fed in winter, she used to cut in summer, among the rocks, with a knife, with her own hands. Her cows, it was said, were alwaj's in good order. They were taken from her, but paid for, by the British, in 1775, and killed, to the no small grief of the good old woman. Islcsborougli, Me. Waldo CO. This town comprises a large and fertile island, in Penob- 17 scot bay, and several isianos lu i<^« vicinity. This island lias excellent harbors, and is much frequented by fishermen I'.nd coasters. The inliab- itants are independent farmers and fishei-men, who are accustomed to render their insular situation a place of comfort to the wayfarer, or the invalid in pursuit of ocean breezes. Islesborough lies 10 miles S. E. fi'om Belfast, and 56 E. from Augusta. Incorporated, 17S9. — Population, 1837, G74. Israel's River, Bf. H., Coos CO., is formed by the waters which descend in cataracts from the summits of Mounts Adams and Jef- ferson, and running N. W. it passes through Randolph and Jeflcrson, discharging itself into the Connec- ticut near the centre of Lancaster. It is a beautiful stream, and receiv- ed its name from Israel Glines, a hunter, who with his brother fre- quented these regions, long before the settlement of the county. JacksoM, Mc. Waldo CO. An interior township of good land that produced, in 1837, 4,898 bushels of as fine wheat as can be raised in Tennessee. Pop- ulation, same year, 523. Jackson is 49 miles N. E. from Augusta, and 15 N. N. W. from Belfasf. Incor- porated, 1818. Jacksou, ]V. II., Coos CO., situated on the E. side of the White mountains. The sur- face of the town is uneven, but the soil is rich and productive. It is watered principally by the two branches of Ellis' river, passing from the N. and uniting on the S. border near Spruce mountain. — The principal elevations are called Black, Haldfacc, and Thorn moun- tains. Benjamin Copp was the first settler ; he moved into Jackson in 1779, and with his family buffeted the terrors of the wilderness four- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. teen years, before any other person settled there. The town was in- corporated December 4, 1800, by the name of Adnnis, which name it retained until 1829, when it was changed to Jackson. Population, in 1830, 515. Jaffi-ey, N. II. Cheshire co. This town lies 62 miles N. W. from Boston, and 40 S. W. by S. from Concord. The Grand Monadnock is situated in the N. VV. part of this town and in Dublin. Innumerable streams of water issue from the mountain. Those which issue from the western side dis- charge themselves into the Con- necticut river; those from the east- ern form the head waters of Con- toocook river. The largest stream rises about 100 rods trom the sum- mit, and descends in a S. E. direc- tion. With this brook, the thirsty and fatigued visitors of the moun- tain associate the most pleasing re- collections. The uneven soil of Jaffrey, affording numerous mead- ows, and early and rich pastures, is peculiarly adapted to raising cat- tle. There are several ponds in this town. Out of 3, issue streams sufficient to carry mills erected near their outlets. In the largest, which is 400 rods long, and 140 wide, is an island comprising aljout 10 acres. About 1 1-2 miles S. E. from the mountain is the " Monadnock mine- ral spring." The spring is slightly impregnated with carbonate of iron and sulphate of soda. It preserves so uniform a temperature as never to have been known to freeze. Where the spring issues from the earth, yellow ochre is thrown out. In this town are a cotton and wool- en factory, and various mills. The first permanent settlement was made in 1758. Jafiiey was incorporated in 1773, receiving its name from George Jaffrey, Esq., of Portsmouth, one of the original proprietors. Pop- ulation in 1830, 1,354. Jamaica, Vt. Windham co. West river water.'j this town, and gives good mill seats. At a pleasant village near the cen- tre of the town are valuable man- ufacturing establishments. The sur- face of the town is very uneven ; in some parts mountainous, but the soil is generally good and produc- tive. Lime-stone of a good quality is found here. Jamaica was tirst settled in 1780. Population, 1830, 1,523. It lies 90 miles S. from Montpelier, and 14 N. W. from Newfane. JamestOMii, R. I, Newport co. This town compris- es Connanicut, a beautiful island in Narraganset bay, about 8 miles in length : its average breadth is about a mile. The soil is a rich loam, and peculiarly adapted for grazing and the productioli of In- dian corn and barley. The inhabitants of this island are remarkable for their industry and agricultural skill, which, united with the fertility of the soil and the location of the island, renders it a delightful place. The distance from the town or island to Newport and South Kingston is about a mile each way ; to each of those places a fer- ry is established. The island was purchased of the Indians in 1657. Jamestown was incorporated in 1678. Population, 1830, 415. Jay, Me. Franklin co. Jay lies at a bend of Androscoggin river, 29 miles W. by N. from Augusta, and 12 S. S. W. from Farmington. There is much valuable land in Jay. The inhab- itants are principally farmers, and cultivate the soil with much indus- try. The town produced, in 1837, 8,129 bushels of wheat, and con- siderable wool. Population, 1830, 1,276; 1837, 1,685. Incorporated, 1795. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Jay, Vt. Orleans co. A part of this town is very mountainous — Jay's peak lying in the S. W. part ; the other part is good arable land, and would produce good crops if well culti- vated. A number of streams issue from the mountain and produce an ample water power. Jay was char- tered in 1792, but it was not per- manently settled until about ISIG. It lies 50 miles N. from IMoiitpe- lier, and 15 N. W. from Irasburgh. Population, 1S30, 196. Jeflersou, Me. Lincoln co. This town lies at the head of Damariscotta river, and embraces a large body of water. It is otherwise watered by several ponds producing streams for mill seats, which give to Jefferson great facilities for sawing and transport- ing lumber. This is a flourishing town in its trade and agricultural pursuits; it produced 3, .361 bushels of wheat in 1837. Incorporated, 1807. Population, 1837, 2,246. It lies 28 miles E. S. E. from Augus- ta, and 15 N. E. from Wiscasset. Jefferson, N. H. Coos CO. Pondicherry pond, in this town, is about 200 rods in di- ameter, and is the principal source of John's river. Pondicherry bay is about 200 rods wide and 100 long. Mount Pliny lies in the easterly part of this town, and around its base there is excellent grazing and tillage land. On the S. W. side of this mountain are several fine farms, which command a most delightful view of the White mountains. Is- rael's river passes through Jeffer- son from S. E. to N. W., and hei-e receives a considerable branch. The town was tii-st settled about the year 1773. Jefferson is 77 miles N. from Concord, and 9 S. E. from Lancas- ter. Population, 1830, 495. Jerico, Vt> Chittenden co. First settled, 1774. Population, 1830, 1,654. Jerico lies 25 miles N. W. from INIontpelier, and 12 E. from Burlington. This town lies on the N. side of Onion river, and is otherwise finely sup- plied with mill seats by Brown's river and other streams. The soil varies in quality, from good inter- vale, on the streams, to common grazing pastures, on the hills. There is a pleasant village at the falls, on lirown's river, and some manufac- tories. Johuson, Vt. Lamoille co. Johnson was first settled in 1784, by a revolutionary hero, of the name of Samuel Ea- ton. Mr. Eaton frequently passed through this township, while scout- ing between Connecticut river and lake Champlain ; and several times encamped on the same flat which he afterwards occupied as a farm, it being a beautiful tract of intervale. Like many other settlers of this state, he had many difficulties to encounter. In indigent circumstan- ces, and with a numerous family, he loaded his little all upon an old horse, and set out in search of that favorite spot which he had selected in his more youthful days. He had to travel nearly 70 miles through the wilderness, guided by the trees which had been marked by the scouts, and opening a path as he passed along. He depended, for some time after he arrived at John- son, entirely upon hunting and fish- ing for the support of himself and family. The river Lamoille enters this township near the southeast cor- ner, and running westerly about two miles, through a rich tract of intervale, falls over a ledge of rocks about 15 feet in height into a basin below. This is called Jli' Conner's falls. Thence it runs northwest- erly over a bed of rocks, .about 100 rods, narrowing its channel and in- creasing its velocity, when it forms a whirlpool and sinks under a bar- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. rier of rocks, which extends across the river. The arch is of solid rock, is about eiglit feet wide, aud at low water is passed over by footmen with safety. The water rises below through numerous aper- tures, exhibiting the appearance of the boihng of a pot. The surface of this township is uneven, being thrown into ridges, which are covered with hemlock, spruce and hard wood. The soil is a dark, or yellow loam, mixed with a ligSit sand, is easily tilled, and very productive. The alluvial fiats are considerably extensive, bat back from (he river the lands are, in some parts rather stony. In the northeastern part has been discov- ered a quantity of soapstone. The village, in Johnson, is very pleasant, and contains a number of mills, for the manufacture of vari- ous articles. Johnson lies 2S miles N. by W. from Montpelicr. and 6 N. W. from Hyde Park. Popula- tion, 1830, 1,079. Jolinstuu, R. I. Providence co. This town lies 5 miles W. from Providence, from which it was taken in 17.59. It is pleasantly variegated by hills and vales, with a soil adapted to the cul- ture of corn and barley, and par- ticularly to all sorts of vegetables and fruits, of which large quantities are annually sent to Providence market. The quarries of freestone in Johnston are valuable ; they sup- ply the wants, not only of the city and immediate vicinity, but distant places, with that useful material. The Wonasquatucket and Pochasset rivers with their tributary streams give this town a good hydraulic pow- er. Beautiful manufacturing vil- lages are scattered along the banks of these waters, presenting to the eye of the traveller the pleasant union of our agricultural and man- ufacturing interests. Population, 1830, 2,113. Joiiesborottgli, 5Ic. AVashington co. This town has Chandler's river and the head of Englishman's bay on the E., Jones- port on the S., and the town of Ad- dison on the W. Incorporated, 1809. Population, 1837, 435. It lies 134 miles E. by N. from Augusta, and 12 S. W. from Machias. Jouesjjort, Me. Washington co. Taken from Jones- borough in 1836, and is bounded N. by Jonesborough, E. by English- man's bay, S. by Mispeeky reach, and W. by Addison bay and har- bor. This place has an excellent harbor, and is finely located for ship building, the fisheries and coasting trade. It lies 138 miles E. by N. from Augusta, and 16 S. W. from Machias! Population, 1837, 581 Beal and Head islands lie off vS. from Jonesport. Juclitli Point, R. I. A noted headland in South Kings- ton, 11 miles S. S.W. from Newport, in N. lat. 41° 24', W. Ion. 71° 35'. A light-house was erected liere in 1310, the tower of which is 35 feet in height. This point opens to the ocean about midway between Vine- yard and Long Island Sounds. — When off this place, travellers un- accustomed to the sea frequently experience some little inconveni- ence for a few miles. From this light, Montauk, on Long Island, bears about S. W. 30 miles, and Gay Head, on Martha's Vineyard, about E. by S., 85 miles. Ivatalitliu MoTiiitaiii, Me. This celebrated mountain, the greatest elevation in the state, lies between the eastern and western branches of Penobscot river, in the county of Piscataquis, about eighty Uiiles N. N. W. from Bangor, and 120 N. N. E. from Augus'ta. Dr. Jackson has ascertained its height NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. to be 5,300 feet above the level of the sea. The Indians had a notion that this mountain was the abode of supernatural beings. It is steep and rugged, and stands in almost solitary grandeur. It may be seen in a clear day from Bangor. Those who have visited its summit pro- nounce the scenery unrivalled in sublimity. Kearsarge Mouutaiii, IX. H., In the county of Merrimack, sit- uated between the towns of Sutton and Salisbury, extending into both towns. The line between AVilmot and Warner passes over the sum- mit. Kearsarge is elevated 2,4()1 feet above the level of the sea, and is the highest mountain in Merri- mack county. Its summit is now a bare mass of granite, presenting an irregular and broken surface ; the sides are covered with a thick growth of wood. The prospect from this mountain, in a clear sky, is very wide and beautiful. Kecue, IV. H., Chief town of Cheshire co., is one of the most flourishing towns in N. H. It is 80 miles W. N. W. from Boston, 60 S. from Dartmouth col- lege, 43 S.S. E. from Windsor, Vt., 40 W. from Amherst, and 55 W. S. W. from Concord. The soil is of va- rious kinds and generally good. Ashuelot river has its source in a pond in Washington, and discharges itself into the Connecticut, at Hins- dale, 20 miles distant from Keene. Keene has been called one of the " prettiest villages" in New Eng- land ; and president Dwight, in his travels, pronounces it one of the pleasantest inland towns he had seen. The principal village is sit- uated on a flat, E. of the Ashuelot, nearly equidistant from that and the upland. It is particularly entitled to notice for the extent, width, and uniform level of its streets. The main street, extending one mile in a straight line, is almost a perfect 17* level, and is well ornamented with trees. The buildings are good and well arranged; some of them are elegant. Keene is a place of con- siderable business. It has 2 glass houses, a woolen factory, iron found- ry, and many other valuable manu- facturing establishments. Its first settlement commenced about the year 1734, by Jeremiah Hall and others. Its original name was Up- per Jlshuclot. It was incorporated with its present name, April 1], 1753, which is derived from Sir Benjamin Keene, British minister at Spain, and contemporary with Gov. B. Weutworth. In 1736 the settlement had so increased, that a meeting-house was erected and in two years after, a minister was settled. But the usual scourge, which attended the fron- tier settlements, visited this town. In 1745 the Indians killed Josiah Fisher, a deacon of the church : in 1746, they attacked the fort, the only protection of the inhabitants. They were, however, discovered by Capt. Ephraim Dorman in sea- son to prevent their taking it. — He was attacked by two Indians, but defended himself successfully against them, and reached the fort. An action ensued, in which John Bullard was killed ; Mrs. M'Ken- ney, who being out of the fort, was stabbed and died ; and Nathan Blake taken prisoner, carried to Canada, where be remained two years. Mr. Blake afterwards returned to Keene, where he lived till his death, in 1811, at the age of 09 years and 5 months. When he was 94 he married a wid- ow of GO. The Indians burnt all the buildings in the settlement, includ- ing the meeting-house. The in- habitants continued in the fort un- til April, 1747, when the town was abandoned. In 1753 they return- ed, and re-con, menced their settle- ments. In 1755 the Indians again attacked the fort. Their number was great, and the onset violent, but the vigilance and courage of NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Capt. Syms successfully defended it. After burning several build- ings, killing cattle, &c., they with- drew. They again invaded the town, but with little success. Col. Isaac Wyman, an active and influential man, marched the lirst detachment of men from this town, in the war of the revolution, and was present at the battle of Breed's Hill. Population, in 1830, 2,374. Keucluskeag Stream, Me. This stream rises in Dexter and Garland, and after meandering very circuitously through Corinth, Le- vant and Button, it falls into the Penobscot river, at the centre of the city of Bangor. This is a valu- able mill stream; it has numerous tributaries ; its banks are fertile, romantic and beautiful. Kenneljec River, Me. The first source of this import- ant river is Moose Head lake, of which it is the outlet. From thence it passes in a S. W. course nearly 20 miles, where it receives the wa- ters of Dead river ; it then proceeds S. to Starks, about 40 miles, where it receives the waters of the Sandy : here it changes its course easterly, about 12 miles, passing Norridge- wock and Skowhegan : it then again changes its course to the S. till it receives the waters of the Sebasti- cook, about 15 miles: it continues to descend in nearly a S. course to Hallowell, about 20 miles ; here it inclines to the E. a few miles, and then resuming a S. course, and passing through JMerrymeeting bay, where it receives the Androscog- gin river, it passes Bath and meets the ocean. The whole length of this river, from Moose Head lake to the sea, is about 150 miles. The tributaries already named are the most considerable ; but there are many others that would be con- sidered important rivers in other sections of country. The whole fall of this river is more tlian 1,000 feet, and its hydraulic power, with that of its tributaries, is incalculable. We are enabled to state that the average, or mean time, of the clos- ing of this river by ice, at Hallow- ell, for 45 successive years, was December 12th, and of its opening, April 3d. The most remarkable years were, 1792, when the riv- er closed November 4th, and open- ed April 1st, the following year ; and 1S31, when it closed January 10th, and opened April 13th, 1832, Since the year 1786 the Kennebec has not been obstructed by ice in any spring after the 20th of April. Kenneljec Coviiity, Me. Augusta is the shire town. This county is bounded N. by Franklin, Somerset, and Penobscot counties, E. by Waldo and a part of Lincoln counties, S. by Lincoln county, and W. by Oxford county. This county is watered by numerous ponds and rivers, but principally by the noble Kennebec, which passes nearly through its centre, from which the name of the county is derived. The face of the county is undulating, not hilly; its soil is of a superior quality, producing, in great abund- ance, all the variety of grasses, grains, vegetables and fruits com- mon to its climate. The union of hydraulic power with navigable waters, which this county enjoj-s ; its fertility, locality, and other nat- ural advantages, render it a highly favored section of our country. — Area, about 1,050 square miles. In 1837 this county contained 101, 23S sheep, and produced 186,876 bush- els of wheat. Population, 1837,62,- 375 : 59 inhabitants to a square mile. Kenuebuuk, Me. York CO. This town is situated on the S. W. side of the Kenne- bunk river, and is regarded as one of the pleasantest towns in New England. Population, 1837, 2,343. In former years the business of the NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. town was mostly of a commercial character, there being a large num- ber of vessels owned here, which were engaged in the Weanon, €t. New London co. Lebanon lies 30 miles S. E. from Hartford,*and 10 N. W". from Norwich. First settled about 1700. Population, in 1S30, 2,554. The surface of the town is uneven — moderately hilly. The soil is of a chocolate color ; — a rich deep mould, very fertile, and well adapted for grass. Hudiandry is the principal business of the in- habitants. The village is ou a street more than a mile in length, wide, pleasant and interesting : it was the residence of the Thumbull, fami- ly, celebrated for their fiienius and patriotism. On the family tomb, in fJie village, is the following inscrip- tion to the memory of the first gov- ernor Trumbull. " Sacred to the memory of Jonathan Trumbull, Esq. »vho, unaided by birth or powerful connexions, but blessed with a noble and virtuous mind, arrived to the hiijliest station in ^overninent. His patriotism and firmness during 50 years employment in public life, and particuhirly in the very important part ne acted in the American Revolution, 18 as Governor of Connecticut ; the faithful page of History will record. I'ull of years and honors, rich in be- nev Rockingham co. Adjoining the E. line of the county of Hillsbo- rough. This town contains very lit- tle waste land, and it is believed, has as extensive a body of fertile soil as any town in the E. section of the state. It lies 25 miles S. S. E. from Concord, and 33 S. W. from Portsmouth. Population, in 1830, 1,469. Londonderry, which formerly in- cluded the present town of Derry, was settled in 1719, by a colony of Presbyterians, from the vicinity of the city of Lonilonderry, in the N. of Ireland, to which place their an- cestors had emigrated about a cen- tury before from Scotland. They were a part of 120 families, chiefly from three parishes, who with their religious instructors came to New England in the summer of 1713. In October, 1718, they applied to *the government of Massachusetts for the grant of a township, and received assurances that a grant should be made them when they should select a place for its location. After some time spent in viewing the country, they selected the tract afterwards composing the town of Londonderry, at first known by the name of JVutfield. In 1719, six- teen families, accompanied by Rev. James McGregore, one of the cler- gymen who had emigrated from Ireland with them, took possession of the tract, and on the day of their arrival attended religious ser- vices and a sermon under an oak on the east shore of Reaver pond. The inhabitants of Londonderry in 1720, purchased the Indian title, and although it was long a frontier town, were never molested by the Indians. They introduced the cul- ture of the potatoe, a vegetable till then unknown in New England, and the manufacture of linen cloth, which, though long since declined. was for many years a considerable source of their early prosperity. Rev. Matthew Clark, sec- ond minister of Londonderry, was a native of Ireland, who had in early life been an officer in the army, and distinguished himself in the defence of the city of London- derrv, when besieged by the army of King James li. A. D.,l()83-y. He afterwards relinquished a mili- tary life for the clerical profession. He possessed a strong mind, mark- ed by a considerable degree of ec- centricity. He died January 25, 1735, and was borne to the grave, at his particular request, by his for- mer companions in arms, of whom there were a considerable number among the early settlers of this town ; several of whom had been made free from taxes throughout the British dominions by King Will- iam, for their bravery in that mem- orable siege. A company of 70 men from this town, under the command of Capt. George Reid, were in the battle of Breed's hill, and about the same number were in that at Benning- ton, in which Capt. David M'Clary, one of their citizens, a distinguish- ed and brave officer, was killed. Major-general John Stark and Col. George Reid, officers of the army of the revolution, were natives of this town. liOndouderry, Vt. Windham co. West river passes though this town and receives sev- eral tributaries in it. The land on the streams is rich and fertile ; the uplands are good for grazing, ex- cept those parts that are mountain- ous. First settled, 1774. Popula- tion, 1S:}0, 1,302. It lies 28 miles S. W. from Vv'indsor, and 30 N. E. from Bennington. liong Islaiicl Souud. This inland sea washes the whole southern boundary of Connecticut, and is formed by Long Island, in the NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. state of New York. This island extends from Montauk Point, off Stonington, to the harbor of New York. Its length is 120 miles. The widest part, 20 miles, is off New Haven ; the narrowest parts, on the border of New England, are off the mouth of Connecticut river, about 8 miles, and off Greenwich, or Saw Pits, 7 miles. This Sound, as far as Hurl Gate, is navigable for vessels of any bur- then, and the passage to and from tlie sea round Montauk, is remark- ably easy at any time of tide, and in all weather. See Judith Point. Hurl Gate, sometimes called Hell Gate, but properly Horll Gait, a Dutch term, signifying a whirl- pool, is a narrow strait of difficult passage between Long and New York^ Islands. At half tide the current runs 7 or 8 miles an hour. It contains numerous whirlpools, is rocky and bears a threatening as- pect; but good pilots navigate it with ease when the tide is favora- ble. Steam-boats press through at all times of tide. Through this passage a vast amount of the pro- ductions of Connecticut and Rhode Island pass to New York market. A survey for a ship canal, uniting these waters and Narraganset bay with Boston harbor, was commenc- ed by the government of the Uni- ted States in 1827. From a tide lock at Braintree, in Boston harbor, to a tide lock at Somerset, Mass., on Taunton river, the distance is 36 miles. The summit level is at Randolph, Mass., 134 feet above high water mark at Boston. A sliip canal in this direction, or one across Cape Cod, at Sandwich, would save many lives, and a vast amount of property. Some of the distances from Prov- idence, and along the northern coast of this Sound, to the city of New York, are here given. From Providence to Newport, .jO miles: — to Judith Point, 11 — 41 : — to the mouth of Stonington har- bor, 27 — 68 : — to the mouth of New London harbor, S--76 : — to the mouth of Connecticut river, 13 — 89 : — to the mouth of New Haven harbor, 27— 116:— to Stratford Point, 10— 12G : — to the mouth of Fairfield har- bor, 6—132 ;— to Norwalk, 8—140 : — to Greenwich, or Saw Pits, 15 — 15.^ :— to Throg's Point, 14—169 :— to Hurl Gate, 6— 175 :— to New York, 8 miles, making the distance from Providence to New York, by water, 183 miles. As the rail-road from Boston to Al!)any, although in good progress, is not completed; and as many of our friends at the north visiting the interior of the state of New York find it more agreeable to pass through the city of New York and up the Hudson river, rather than cross the country, we think it may be useful to give some, of the dis- tances on that noble river, from the city of New York to the city of Troy. Note. — w. denotes west side, e. east side. From New York to Hoboken,w. 2 miles: — to Manhattanville, e. 6 — 8 :— to Fort Lee, w. 2—10 :— to King'sBridge,.3— 13:— (The Palis- adoes, perpendicular cliffs of great elevation, on the west bank of the river, commence at Hobcken, and extend 20 miles to Tappan bay) to Fort Independence, e. 2 — 15: — to Tarrytown, e. 12—27 :— to Sing Sing, e. 5 — 32 : — to Stony Point light-house, w. 8 — 40 : — to Fort Fayette, Verplanck's Point, e. 1 — 41 : — to Dunderburgh Mountain, w. and Peekskill, e. 2 — 43 : — (Here we enter the justly celebrated Highlands, pronounced by every honest Yankee to be equal if not superior to any scenery of the kind in his own country) to St. Antho- ny's Nose, e. and Forts Montgome- ry and Clinton, w. 3 — 46 : — to But- termilk Falls, vv. 4—50 :— to West Point— Fort Putnam, w. 2— 52: — to West Mountain, vv. and Cold NEW EN(iLA.M^ ^, ETTEER. Spring, e. 4 — 56: — to Nevvburgh, w. 5— CI :— to Hamburgh, e. 7— 68: — to Poughkeepsie, e. 4 — 72: — to Hyde Park, e. 9—81 :— to Lew- is' Landing, e. and P^sopus, w. 5 — 86 : — to Kingston Landing, w. and Rhinebeck Landing, e. 4 — 90 : — to Upper Red Hook Landing, e. and Ulster, w. 11—101 :— to "Catskill Landing, w. 9 — 110: — to Hudson, e. and Athens, w. 6 — 116: — to Coxsackie Landing, \v. 8 — 124 : — to Kindcrhook Landing, e. 3 — 127: — to Cueinans, vv. 5 — 132 : — to the Overslaugh, (sand bars) 9 — 141 : — to Albany, w. 3 — 144: — to Troy,e. 6 — 150. Tiie whole distance tVoin Boston to Troy, by this route, is 857 miles. At Catskill Landing, visitors to the Catskill mountains stop. Pine Orchard Hotel, a splendid building, is 12 miles distant. This JMoantain House is 2,274 feet above the tide of the Hudson. A few years ago this enchanting spot was a wilder- ness. " From this lofiy eminence all inequalities of surface arc overlook- ed. A seemingly endless succes- sion of woods and waters — farms and villages, towns and cities, are spread out as upon a boundless map. Far beyond rise the Tagkannuc mountains, and the highlands of Connecticut and Massachusetts. To the left, and at a still greater dis- tance, the (»reen mountains of Ver- mont stretch away to the north, and their blue summits and tiie blue sky mingle together. The beautiful Hudson, studded with islands, ap- pears narrowed in the distance, with steam- boats almost constantly in sight; while vessels of every description, spreading their white canvas to tlie breeze, are moving rapidly over its surface, or idly loitering in the calm. These may be traced to the distance of nearly seventy miles with the naked eye ; and again at times all below is en- veloped in dark clouds and rolling 19 mist, which, driven about by the wind, is constantly assuming new, wild, and fantastic forms. From tlie Pine Orchard a ride or walk of a mile or two brings you to the Kauterskill falls. Here the outlet of two small lakes leaps down a perpendicular fall of 130 feet — then glides away through a channel worn in the rock, to a second fall of 80 feet. Below this it is lost in the dark ravine through which it tinds its way to the valley of the Catskill." Troy is a beautiful city. It lies on the east siile of Hudson river, in tlie county of Rensselaer, New York, at the head of navigation, and at the junction of the northern and western canals with that noble river. The city is on an elevated plain, regularly laid out : the streets are wide and well shaded : the buildings are uniformlj' neat, and many of them in a style of superior elegance. St. Paul's cliurch, and the new Presbyterian, are splendid edifices, and di-'-play great taste in their construction. The city of Troy is abundantly supplied with excellent water from the neighboring hills, at an expense of .$150,000. The source of the water is 75 feet above the level of the city. At the corner of every street are hydrants, and a hose plac- ed on these sends the water up higher and with greater force than a tire engine. The squares and private gardens are ornamented with perpetual wa- ter fountains. In Washington Square is an Ital- ian marble fountain, chaste and clas- sic in its construction, in the centre of the city. It sends up the water ten or fifteen feet, and in its descent resembles the weeping willow. — This significant emblem of purity gives this beautiful square an addi- tional charm. Two streams, affording immense NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. water facilities, empty into the Hudson within the limits of the city, and one of them rolls down a beautiful cascade, a short distance from Vrashington square ; an olj- ject worthy of a visit from the curi- ous traveler. These streams move the machinery of numerous mills. About a quarter of a mile fiom the centre of the city, Mount Ida rears its head three or four hundred feet in height, from whose summit every building in the city, the windings of the canals and river, the foaming of the IMohawk, and the neighboring towns of Albany, Waterford, and Lansingburgh, are distinctly seen. Troy was incorporated as a vil- lage in 1801. It then had a popu- lation of 2,000. Population, 1810, 3,895. In 1816 it became a city. Population, 1820, 5,264; 1825, 7,875; 1830, 11,405; 1836, 18,000. Troy has risen to its present state of opulence and population by its favorable position for trade, but more especially the enterprize and economical habits of its people. — Many of the first settlers of Troy came from New England in humble circumstances. Some of those v.'ho thus came have amassed piincely fortunes, and acquired a name more valuable than gold. A recent Mayor of the city came from the east as a day laborer. The late chief magistrate of the justly styled " Empire State," a New Englander, was found in 1822 soliciting the patronage of the Trojans as an at- torney at law. Troy was formerly called Vanderheyden, in honor of a worthy Dutchman whose farm comprised the most compact part of the city. A notice of Mrs.Willard's Fe- male Seminary must not be omitted in this brief account of the "Foun- tain City," as it is an institution of rare excellence, conducted by a lady of extraordinary attainments. This school was commenced at Troy in 1821, since which time a commodious building, on a pleas- ant site, has been erected, 130 feet by 40. The number of scholars varies from 200 to 275. They come from every state in the union, the Canadas, the West Indies, and even from Europe, but chiefly from the state of New York and New Eng- land. Mrs. Willard's plan of edu- cation has received the approbation of some of the wisest men in Eu- rope. Dr. Combe quotes it, in his essay on education, with unqualifi- ed approbation. This institution is conducted almost entirely by fe- males : it is, in fact, a female col- lege, and many are the degrees of usefulness conferred by its learned principal on its numerous and love- ly graduates. The institution is incorpoi-ated, and it cannot fail of receiving the best wishes of the community. — May no event occur to mar its pros- perity and usefulness. The traveler will visit the "Foun- tain City " again, on his way from Champlain Lake. See Burlington, Vt., in the Register. Long Meado'w, Mass. Hampden co. This is a beauti- ful town with a fine soil, on the E. side of Connecticut river, 97 miles S. W. by V>'. from Boston, 3 S. fi'om Springfield, and 22 N. from Hart- ford, Ct. Incorporated, 1783. Pop- ulation, 1837, 1,251. There are several tanneiies in the town, and some other nsanufactures, but the inhaliitants are generally engaged in cultivating the soil. The Indian name of the place was Massaesick. Long Lake, Me. This is a sheet of water at the northern part of Piscataquis county, about 15 miles in length and 2 in width, which empties by Namjam- skillecook river into Temiscouata lake, the head waters of Madawas- ka river. It lies about 210 miles N. by E. from Augusta. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Long Pond, Ale. See Bridget OH. liOudoii, N. II. Merrimack co. Soucook river passes from Giliuanton S. tlirougli Loudon, furnisliing valuable mill privileges. There is sonic good in- tervale on its borders. Loudon was originally a part of Canterbury ; was incorporated, 1773. Loudon lies 7 miles N. E. from Concord. Population, 1830, 1,642. liOvell, Me. Oxford CO. Tills town embraces Kezer pond, a large sheet of water, and other ponds whose outlet is into the Saco, at Fryeburgh. Lovell lies 10 miles N. from Fryeburgh, 20 \V. S. W- from Paris, and 67 W. S. W. from Augusta. Incorpora- ted, 1800. Population, 1837, 876. " In this town are Lovell's Falls, which aie an object of great natu- ral curiosity. Where the water makes over into the tremendous ba- sin below, it falls perpendicularly -10 feet. Above the falls, there is a chain of eight ponds, partly in Lovell and partly in Waterford, con- nected by small natural dams one or two rods in width, through which there are sluiceways, which will admit the passage of a common sail boat. The scenery of the moun- tains and ascending lands in the vi- cinity is rural and beautiful." liOAvell, Me. Penobscot co. Formerly called Huntressville. Incorporated by its present name in 1838. " See Down East." LiOtvell, Vt. Orleans co. This town was first settled in 1806, and was called ITel- leyvale for a number of years. It lies 36 miles N. from Montpelier, and 10 S. W. from Irasburgh. Pop- ulation, 1830, 314. This township is mountainous, and the fountain head of IMissisque river. liO'Mrell, Mass. Middlesex co. County town. — This city, the American ]\Ianche8- ter, is remarkable for the extent of its water power, its rapid growth, and the height to which it has rais- ed the Aniei-ican character, by the perfection of its manufactures. Lowell lias risen to eminence by the remarkable energy and skill of a few individuals ; among whom Patrick T. Jackson, Esq. of Boston, and the late Kirk Boot, Esq. were distinguished. It lies on the S. side of Merri- mack river, below Pawtucket Falls, and at the union of Concord river with the Merrimack. In 1815, the site where the city stands was a wilderness, with the exception of a few lonely dwell- ings. In 1824, Lowell, then a part of Chelmsford, was incorporated as a town. In 1835, it became a city. Lowell is situated 25 miles N. from Boston, 14 N. N. E. from Concord, 37 N. E. from Worcester, and 38 S. S. E. from Concord, N. H. Popu- lation, 1830, 6,174; 1837, 18,010. The hydraulic powerof this place i-3 produced by a canal, of a mile and a half in length, 60 feet in width, and 8 feet in depth, extend- ing from the head of Pawtucket Falls to Concord river. This canal has locks at its outlet into Concord river; it also serves for the passage of boats up and down the Merri- mack. From tliis canal, the water is conveyed by lateral canals to va- rious places where it is wanted for use, and then discharged, either in- to the ]Merrimack or Concord. The canal is owned by " The Proprietors of the Locks and Canals on Merrimack river." This com- pany was incorporated in 1792, and have a capital of ,f 600,000. They dispose of lands and mill privileges, and own the machine shop, and carry on the manufacture of ma- chinery. The first cotton mill at this place was erected in 1822. The whole fall of the Merrimack NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. at this place is 30 feet, and the quantity of water never falls short of 2,000 cubic feet per second, and is very rarely so low as that. This quantity of water is estimated to carry 286,000 spindles, with all the preparatory machinery. There is therefore an unimproved water power at this place sufficient to carry eleven mills of the usual size, making the whole number of mills 39, when all the water is impioved. There are 10 corporations, with a capital stock of $8,250,000: 28 mills besides machine shops, print works, &c., all warmed in cold weather by hot air or steam. There are 150,404 spindles, and 4,861 looms. There are 51,147,200 yards of cloth manufactured per an- num ; 12,220,000 yards dyed and printed, and 16,161,600 lbs. of cot- ton used annually, besides a large quantity of wool. There are annually used in these manufactories, 11,000 tons of An- thi-acite coal, 4,810 cords of wood, 500,000 bushels of charcoal, 63,4S9 gallons of oil, 510,000 pounds of starch, and 3,800 barrels of flour for starch in the print works and bleachery. The number of females employ- ed in the mills, is 6,295 : number of males, 2,047. Total number of hands, 8,342. The average wages of females per week, clear of board, is $1,75; of males, 80 cents per day, clear of board. The average amount of wages paid per month is $106,000. Tlie goods manufactured in these mills consist of sheetings, shirtings, drillings, calicoes, broadcloths, cas- simeres, carpets, rugs, negro cloth ; machinery for mills, and for en- gines and cars for rail-roads. The quality of these goods is general- ly superior to those imported. The annual amount of goods manu- factured by these mills is about $8,000,000. The mills are built of brick, and are about 157 feet in length, 45 in breadth, and from 4 to 7 stories in height. The Locks and Canals Machine Shop, included among the 28 mills, can furnish machinery complete for a null of 5,000 spindles in four months, and lumber and materials are always at command, with which to build or rebuild a mill in that time, if required. When building mills, the Locks and Canals Com- pany employ directly and indirect- ly from a thousand to twelve hun- dred hands. There are also in Lowell 10 powder mills, a flour mill, glass works, the Lowell bleachery, flan- nel mills, and manufactories of cards, Vv^liips, planing and reed machines, boots, shoes ; brass, copper and tin wares, carriages, harnesses, iron castings, &c. &c. ; the annual pro- ceeds of which amount to about $500,000, employing about 200 hands. Lowell is finely situated in regard to health : it is surrounded by pleas- ant hills and valleys, and seated on a rapid stream. We are enabled to state on good authority that 6 of the females out of 10 enjoy better health than before being employed in the mills, and that one half of the males derive the same advantage. Lowell is very handsomely locat- ed : it is laid out into wide streets ; all the buildings are of recent con- struction, and in a style of neatness and elegance. With regard to the future pros- perity of this interesting city, noth- ing need be said to those who know that it was founded, and is princi- pally sustained, by the most emi- nent capitalists of Boston ; a city renowned for its enterprize, wealth, and public spirit. To strangers we would say — visit it. It is a pleasant ride of about an hour from Boston, by the rail-road. Foreigners view Lowell with ad- miration ; and every American who sees it feels proud that such a city exists on this side of the Atlantic. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. liubec, Me. Washington co. Lubcc compris- es a tOM'nsliip of good land, lying at the northeasterly corner of the state, and contains a point of land extending easterly on which West Quoddy Head light-house is situa- ted, at the western entrance into Passamaquoddy bay. This place possesses an admirable harbor for vessels of any draught of water ; it is easy of access and never obstruct- ed by ice. There are also within the town a number of bays, coves, and several islands. Grand Menan stretches off the mouth of the har- bor on the E. 5 or 6 miles distant, and Campo Ballo, another English island, lies very near and protects the harbor on the north. This town was taken from Eastport in 1811, and contained 3S0 inhabit- ants. Population, 1820, 1430; 1830, 2,081; 1S37, 4,1(51. Lubec, in common with Eastport, enjoys a very extensive trade with the Bay of Fundy and the great waters of Passamaquoddy bay. The village, or principal place of business, is beautifully located on a point of land jutting out into the harbor ; it makes a fine appearance, commands an active trade, and is flourishing in its navigation and fishery. It lies 3 miles S. from Eastport, 30 E. from Machias, 173 E. by N. from Augusta, and 31 S. E. from Calais, at the head of navi- gation on the St. Croix river. Liudlo'n', Vt. Windsor co. Black and Williams' rivers give this town a good water power. It is likewise watered by a number of large ponds well stor- ed with fish. Ludlow was first set- tled in 1784. It lies 61 miles S. from Montpelier, and 18 S. W. from Windsor. Population, 1830, 1,227. The town is mountainous, but contains good land foi- the grazing of sheep and other cattle. The village is very pleasant, nnd the centre of consideralile trade with 19* the surrounding country. Some valuable minerals have been discov- ered here. Ludlo^v, Mass. Hampden CO. This town lies N. of Wilbrabam, and is separated from it by Chickopec river. It is 84 miles W. by S. from Boston, and 10 N. E. from Springfield. Incorpo- rated, 1774. The Chickopee here is a large stream, and adds much to the beauty of the place. There are two cotton mills in the town, and manufactures of palm-leaf hats and ploughs: total value, in one year, $160,850. Population, 1837, 1,329. Liuieiiburgh, Vt. Essex CO. On the west side of Connecticut river, and watered by Neal's branch and pond, and Cat- bow branch ; — good mill streams. Some of the land is very good, but the most of it is stony, appearently of diluvial formation, consisting of rounded masses of granite embed- ded in clay and gravel. This is a good grazing town, and produces some cattle, and butter and cheese for market. First settled about 1770. Population, in 1830, 1,054. Lunenburgh lies 45 miles E. N. E. from Montpelier, and 8 S. from Guildhall. Liuiieubiirgli, Mass. Worcester co. The soil of this town is good, the surface uneven and watered by some branches of Nashua river. Considerable amount of books are printed and bound in this town, and there are some man- ufactures of palm-leaf hats, chairs, cabinet ware, leather, boots and shoes. Lunenburgh is a very pleas- ant town: 42 miles N. W. from Boston, and 24 N. from AVorcester. Incorporated, 1728. Population, 1837, 1,2.j0. Lyman, Mi;. York CO. This is a pleasant NinV EXGLAN'D GAZE'TTEER, town, watered by several pondi which empty, some into the .Saco, and others into the Kennobunk and Mousum. It lies 87 miles S. VV. from Augusta, 5 E. from Alfred and 6 N. N. W. from Kennebunk. Pop- ulation, 1837, 1,528. Iiyman, N. H. Grafton co. On Connecticut riv- er. This town is 13 miles above Haverhill, 90 miles N. N. W. from Concord. There is one considera- ble elevation, called Lyman's moun- tain. The N. W. branch of Burn- ham's river has its source from this mountain. There are several ponds in the E. part of Lyman, through the largest of which Burnham's river has its course. The lower bar of the Fifteen Mile falls is in this town. Carleton's falls are several miles below, and below these is Stevens' ferry, which communi- cates with Barnet. Lyman was granted in 1761. Population, in 1830, 1,.321. Ijyine, N. H. Grafton co. This town is 6 miles S. from Orford, and -54 N. W. from Concord. The soil here is similar to that of other towns on Connecti- cut river, with this difference, that there is a less proportion of inter- vale, and a less difference between that directly a Hillsborough co. This town is 10 miles W. N. W. from Amherst, and 35 S. S. VV. from Concord. It is an elevated township, having a considerable mountain which di- vides it from E. to W. There is, in the N. E. part of the town, below the mountain, a plain, where there is a small village, pleasantly situat- ed near Piscataquog river. The soil of this town, though stony, is deep and strong. For grazing it is, perhaps, not exceeded by any town in the county. The streams are small, originating principally from sources in the town, and running N. and S. from the mountain. — Lyndehorough was originally grant- ed in 1690. In 1753, Benjamin Lynde, Esq. of Salcrn, purchased a considerable part of the township, and adjoining lands. From him, the place, when it was incorporated in 1761, took the name of Lyndeho- rough. It was settled as earlv as 17.50. On the loth of Nov., 1S09, three children were burnt in a barn, while their parents were attending an installation at Mont Vernon. — Population, in 1S30, 1,117. Iiyiidon, Vt. Caledonia co. First settled, 1788. It lies 34 miles N. E. from Mont- pelier, and 10 N. N. E. from Dan- ville. Population, 1830, 1,822. Lyndon is one of the best townships in the state : its surface is undulat- ing, with a soil of rich loam, free from stone, easy to cultivate, and very productive of wool, cattle, pork, butter and cheese. It is ad- mirably well watered bj' the Pas- sumpsic and some of its tributaries. Two important falls of that river are in the town, one of 65 feet in the distance of 30 rods ; the other of 18 feet. These are called Great and Little Falls, and afford a water power of great extent. Agaric mineral, used for chalk, and a good substitute for Spanish wliite, is found here. The principal village is very pleasant and the seat of considera- l)le business. The scenery about the town is picturesque and inter- esting. There is probably no inte- rior town in the state that contains more valuable water privileges than Lyndon. Liyiiu, Mass. Essex CO. Lynn is one of the most flourishing and beautiful towns in the state. It lies on a plain, sur- rounded by rising ground, except on the east, where it opens to Lynn bay, embracing the romantic pen- insula of jYahant, with its beauti- ful beach, and Phillips' Point, both highly esteemed resorts for all class- es of people; — the sick, the serious, and tlie gay. The soil of the t»wn is fertile and well cultivated. It is watered by the river Saiigus, the Indian name of the place. The town is neatly built on wide and pleasant streets, and contains a pop- ulation of about 10,000. It lies 9 miles N. E. from Boston, and 5 S. W. from Salem. Lynn has risen to wealth and importance by the enterprise and industry of its people, in the manu- facture of shoes, particularly for which, more than any other town in the country, it is justly celebra- ted. The manufacture of ladies' shoes was commenced here before the revolutionary war, and it is cu- rious to observe the great changes that have occurred in the fashion and manufacture of that article. " In olden times," says the New- buryport Herald, "ladies' shoes were made in Lynn of common woolen cloth, or coarse curried NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. leather; afterwards of stuffs sucli as cassimere, everlasting, shalloon and russet; some of satin and da- mask,others of satin lasting and fior- entine. They were generally cut w^ith straps, for large buckles, which were worn in those days by women as well as men. Ladies' shoes, 70 years ago, were made mostly with white and russet rands, and stitched very fine on the rancl with white-waxed thread. Some were made turn pumps and channel pumps, all having wooden heels, called cross-cut, commoii,and court heels. Then the cork, plug, and wedge or spring heels, came into use. The sole-leather was all worked with the flesh side out. " Previous to the war of the revo- lution, the market for Lynn shoes was principally confined to New England ; some few, however, were exported to Philadelphia. Many individuals with small cai)i- tal carried on the business in their own families. Fathers, .sons, ap- prentices, and one or two journey- men, all in one small shop, with a chimney in one corner, formed the whole establishment. "After the revolution, the business assumed a different aspect. Enter- prising individuals embarked in the business in good earnest; hired a great number of journeymen ; built large shops, took apprentices, and drove the business. Master workmen shipped their shoes to the south, so that Lynn shoes took the place of English and other im- ported shoes. Morocco and kid leather, suitable for shoes, began to be imported from England, which soon took the place of stuffs. Roan shoes were now little called for; and the improvement of working the sole-leather grain side out, was now generally adopted, making what is called dt(ff bottoms. About the year 1794, wooden heels began to go out of use, by the introduc- tion of leather spring heels. Tliis improvement progressed gradually. until the heel making, which was once a good business, was totally ruined." In the year ending April 1,1837, there were manufactured in Lynn 2, .543, 929 pairs of shoes, and 2,220 pairs of boots, valued at $1,689,793. In this manufacture, 2,631 malrs and 2,554 I'emales were employed ; total number, 5,185. During that time the manufacture of vessels, cordage, tin ware, oil casks, moroc- co leather and shoe boxes amounted to $188,409. During the same pe- i-iod there were 5 vessels employed in the whale and 14 in the cod and mackerel fishery. Besides this, 4,608,000 pounds of cod, haddock, halibut and other fish were tak- en in boats and sold fresh. The to- tal value of the fisheries amounted (o $170,320. Total value of the manufactures and fisheries of Lj'nn, in one year, $2,048,522. Lynn was first settled in 1629. Incorpo- rated, 1637. Lyuuiield, Mass. Essex CO. The surface of this town is uneven, and the soil rather hard and unproductive. It contains some good farms, a number of pleas- ant ponds, and is watered by Ips- wich river on the north. There is a woolen mill in the town, and man- ufactures of bar iron, ploughs, boots and shoes ; annual value about $50,000. Incorporated, 1782.— Populafion, 1837, 674. Lynnfield is 12 miles N. from Boston, and 9 W. by N. from Salem. Macliias Rivers aud Bay, Me. The river in Washington County is formed of two branches, which receive their head waters from sev- eral ponds, at the distance of about 40 miles, in a N. W. direction. — The eastern branch passes through East Machias. These branches unite near the line of Machias and Machias Port, and in their course produce a great and valuable hy- draulic power. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Machias and Little Machias riv- ers, in Penobscot county, are iin- portiint tributaries to the Aroostook. Their course is easterly, and their mouths meet near eacli otlier about 30 niiles'W. N. W. from Mars Hill. Jifachias Bay sets up from the sea about 10 miles and meets Ala- chias Port. This bay is 4 or 5 milei in wiilth at its mouth, aud contains in its bosom several coves, hai-bors, and beautiful islands : Cross island lying at its mouth is the largest, being about 3 miles by 2. Macliias, 3Ie. Washington co. County town. This was a famous lodgement of the Indians. First settled, 1762. It was incorporated in 1781, and was the lirst coi-porate town between Penobscot and St. Croix i-ivcrs. it formerly comprised East Machias and Machias Port. The village is situated on the east side of the west branch, and near the mouth of Middle river. It contains the county building, numerous saw mills, and has an extensive trade, particularly in lumber. Machias lies 143 miles E. N. E. from Augus- ta. Population, 1S37, 1,239. This is a pleasant and interesting town. Machias Port, Mc. Wasliington co. Incorporated in 1826. It is the southern part of Old Machias, and extends north- ward to the union of the branches of Machias river. It has a great number of mills, and is very exten- sively engaged in the lumber trade. It is a port of entry : — it has an excellent harbor, anil considerable navigation in the coasting and fisli- ing business. The tonnage of the district in 1837, was 8,360 tons. In this part of Old Machias the Ply- mouth Colony established a trading house in 163<). It was subsequent- ly occupied by the French for sev- eral years. Machias Port lies 146 miles E. N. E. from Augusta, and 3 S. from Machias. Population, 1837, 821. Madainiscoiitis River, Me., Rises in a large pond, and emp- ties, from the N. W. into Penobscot liver, about 45 miles above Ban- gor. Mada'tvaska Hiver, Me. This river is in the county of Pe- nobscot, and is the outlet of Temis- couata lake, and other large bodies of water in the noi'thern part of the county bordering on the line of Lower Canada. This river and these lakes, with their numerous tributaries, water a country of great extent, and which is said to equal any country in the world in fertili- ty, even the luxuriant piairies of the "' boundless west." The course of these watei-s is N. W. and traverse a distance of more than 100 miles. From the mouth of Madawaska in- to the St. John's to Augiista is about 240 miles N. N. E. Madawaska, Me. Washington co. This town was incorporated in 1831, and comprises the territory n^arked F. and K. on Greenleaf's map. It is bounded E. by the British Province of New Brunswick, N. near the passage of St. John's, across the line of the state ; and W. and S. by a vast and fertile territory between the Aroos- took and St. John's rivers ; at pres- ent but thinly inhabited. This town was the place where the land agents of Maine were taken, by order of the Biitish govei-nment, and impris- oned at Frederickton, N. B. In 1837, Madawaska was supposed to contain a population of 2,487. It lies about 220 miles N. E. by N. fiom Augusta, and 130 N. W. from Frederickton, N. B. Madbiiry, N. H., Strafford co., is bounded N. E. by Dover, S. W. by Durham and NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Lee, N. W. by Barriagton. The soil of tliis town is generally pro- ductive. In some parts of the town, bog iron ore has been dug up in considerable quantities, and in some instances red and yellow ochre. — Bellamay bank river is the only istream of any magnitude, and Bar- badoes pond the only considerable body of water. This pond lies be- tween Dover and Madbury, and ii 120 rods long, 50 wide. Madbury formerly constituted a part of the ancient town of Dover; but was set off and incorporated May 31, 1755, by its present name. Population, in 1S30, 510. Mailisoii, Ele. Somerset co. This township lies on the E. side of Kennebec river, 31 miles N. from Augusta and bounded S. by Norridgewock. It was incorporated in 1304. Popula- tion, 1830, 1,272 ; 1837, 1,608. It is watered by a beautiful pond, the outlet of wliich is at Skowhegan. There are three pleasant villages in the town : — the people are general- ly husbandmen. The best compli- ment that can be paid to the soil is, that it produced, without any extra- ordinary eflbrt, 10,188 bushels of wheat, in 1837. Matlison, Ct. New Haven co. This tov/n was taken from Guilford in 1826. It lies on Long Island Sound, and embra- ces what is called Hammonassct Point. This tovvn lies IS miles E. by S. from New Haven, and 33 S. from Hartford. Population, 1830, 1,809. The soil of the town is stony, and naturally hard to culti- vate ; but it is made quite produc- tive of coi'n, rye and potatoes by the use of white fish, ploughed in. — These fish appeai' in the sound about the 1st of June, and continue 3 or 4 months. They are taken in great quantities and are considered an ex- cellent manure. They were first thus used about the year 1793. — About 10,000 of these fish are con- sidered a good dressing for an acre of land. This place has a small harbor and some navigation. Ship building is the most important mechanical pur- suit. The Hon. Thomas Chitten- den, for many years governor of Vermont, and his brother Ebene- ZEK. Chittenden, a gentleman of great niL-ciianical genius, were natives of ihis town. The former was born in 1730, and died in 1797. The following is the inscription on a monument in the grave yard, in aieniory of an old sea captain. Though Boreas' blasts and Neptune's vi^aves Have toss'd me to and fro, In spite of both by God's decree I harbor here below. Where I do at anclior ride With many of our fleet; Yet once again I must set sail Our Admiral, Christ, to meet. Mad Rivei-s. Mad River hi JV. H., i-ises among the mountains in the N. E. part of Grafton county ; it crosses the S. E. part of Thornton and falls into the Pemigewasset at Campton. Mad River, Vt. A rapid stream, rises in the high lands S. of War- ren, and after passing through Waitsfield, it falls into Onion riv- er at Moretown. Kaclritl, Ble. Franklin co. This township was incorporated in 1836. It is watered by some of the head branches of Sandy river and contains a part of Saddleback mountain. The soil is excellent and yielded, in 1837, 3,387 bushels of wheat. Popula- tion same year, 351. It lies 25 miles N. W. from Farmington and about 105 N. W. from Augusta. Maduukceuiik River, Me. Penobscot co. A tributary of NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the Penobscot on the W. side, about 6 miles above the Madamiscontis. Maidstone, Vt. Essex CO. Tiiis mountainous township lies on the \V. side of Connecticut river : it is watered by a pleasant pond and by Paul's stream. It has some good land, but most of it is poor. First settled, 1770. Population, 1S30, 236. It lies .51 miles N. E. from Montpelier, and S N. from Guildhall .-:" j fi^n m ,j ^Ji 1^^ ^^s \ ''^^ ,'.'iX 1 1 i ' . "^ '. ■ c s ■ fe M MAINE. This State was originally granted by James I. to the Plymouth Compa- ny, in 1606, by whom it was transferred to Rlason and Gorges in 1624. This grant comprised all the territory between Merrimack river and Sa- gadahock. The territory was afterwards purchased by Massachusetts for JC1,250, who obtained a confirmation of the charter in 1691, %vith the ad- dition of the residue of Maine and Nova Scotia, including what is now called the Province of New Brunswick. This state, formerly the District of Maine, became independent of Massachusetts in 1820. By the Constitution, the legislative power is vested in a Senate and House of Representatives, elected annually by the people, on the second Monday in September. The number of Sen- ators cannot be less than 20, nor more than 31. The number of Repre- sentatives cannot be less than 100, nor more than 200. No town or city is entitled to more than seven Representatives. The executive power is vested in a Governor, who is chosen annually NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. by tlie people, on the second Monday In September: — His official term commences on the first Wednesday in January. The Legislature meets at Augusta, on the first Wednesday in Janu- ary, annually, on which day seven Counsellors are elected, by joint bal- lot of both Houses, to advise the Governor in his executive duties. The judicial power of the state is vested in a Supreme Judicial Court, and such other courts as the Legislature may, from time to time, estab- lish. The Judges are appointed by the Governor and Council, and hold their offices during good behavior, but not beyond the age of 70 years. The state of Maine is bounded northwest and north by Lower Canada, east by New Brunswick, south by the Atlantic ocean, and west by New Hampshire. It is situated between 43° 5', and 48° 3' N. lat. and 70° 55', and 66° 47' W. Ion. It contains an area of about 33,000 square miles. The surface of the state is diversified by hills and valleys. A tract on the west side east of the white mountains, and a part of the north bound- ary is mountainous, though not of extraordinary elevations. The high- est mountains lie in detached groups, but they are not numerous. The range of high land which crosses Vermont and New Hampshire, enters the northwest corner of Maine, passing round Chaudiere river and the head waters of Megantic lake, in Canada, and running nearly parallel with the St. Lawrence river, at the distance of about twenty miles, terminates on the gulph of St. Lawrence, near Cape Rosier. — This is the " Height of Land" or the " North East Ridge," spoken of iu the treaty of 17S3, between Great Britain and the United States, ami which was never called in question until 1814, when the British pleni- potentiaries at Ghent proposed to the American Commissioners to discuss and revise the boundary, so as to prevent future uncertainty and dispute. They stated that they desired a direct communication between Quebec and Halifax, and left it to the Americans to demand an equivalent. This proposition was refused by the Americans, on the ground that there was no question in regard to the limits of their territory. The " disputed ter- ritory," so called, includes most of the country north of latitude 46°, in- cluding a part of New Hampshire, and most of that large and valuable portion of Maine watered by the Madawaska, St. John's, Walloostook. Aroostook, and other riveri. This question involves nearly a third part of the territory of the state. In the 2d article of that treaty are the following words : — " And that all disputes which might arise in future, on the subject of boundaries of the United States, may he jirevented, it is hereby agreed and declar- ed that the following are, and shall be, their boundaries, viz : from the northwest angle of JVova Scotia, (New Brunswick) viz: that angle which is formed by a line drawn due noith from the source of St. Croix KKW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. river to the liighlands ; along the said highlands which divide those riv- ers that empty themselves into the river St. Lawrence from those which fall into the Atlantic ocean, to the north westernmost head of the Connec- ticut river." " Our commissioners at Ghent, having successfully resisted every attempt for the dismemberment of Maine, agreed upon an article with the British commissioners, not to revise or to change the ancient treaty boundary, but to run and establish upon the ground that very boundary, without any alteration, and to ascertain " the northwest angle of Nova Scotia ;" its place of beginning. This article is the fifth in the treaty. Under it, each parly appointed a commissioner. These commissioners disagreed. According to the treaty, the question was then referred to the King of the Netherlands, as umpire, who.e award was rejected by the United States, because it did not even profess to decide the controversy according to the terms of the submission, hut i^i-oposcd a compromise, by a division of the disputed territory between tho parties. Great Britian has also since an- nounced her abandonment of this award; and now, at the end of more than half a century after the conclusion of the treaty of 1783, the ques- tion not only remains unsettled, but threatens to involve the two nations in a dangerous dispute. " The northwest angle of Nova Scotia was a well known point, capa- ble of being easily ascertained, ever since the proclamation of 1763, by simply running a due north line from the source of the St. Croix, to in- tersect the southern line of the Province of Quebec, which consists of the highlands running from the western extremity of the bay of Chaleur, to the head of Connecticut river, and dividing those rivers that empty themselves into the river St. Lawrence from those which fall into the Atlantic ocean. It is certain as the laws of nature, that these highlands, from which we know that streams do flow in opposite directions, can be found on the face of the country. " The whole argument of the British government rests upon the assump- tion that the St. John's is not a river falling into the Atlantic ocean, be- cause it has its month in the Bay of Fundy. What is the Bay of Fundy, if it be not a part of the Atlantic ocean ? A bay is a mere opening of the main ocean into the land — a mere interruption of the uniformity of the sea coast by an indentation of water. These portions of the oceaa have received the name of bays, solely to distinguish them from the remainder of the vast deep to which they belong. Would it not be the merest special pleading to contend that the bay of Naples was not a por- tion of the Mediterranean, or that the Bay of Biscay was not a part of the Atlantic ocean ? " Again, the description of the treaty is, " rivers which fall into the 20 NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Atlantic ocean." Can it be said, with any propriety, that a river does not fall into the Atlantic, because in reaching the main ocean it may pass through a bay ? And yet this is the British argument. The Dela- ware does not fall into the Atlantic, because it flows into it througli the bay of Delaware J and, for the same reason, the St. John's does not fall into the Atlantic, because it flows into it through the bay of Fundy." It is ardently wished that this perplexing controversy may soon be ami- cably settled between two friendly powers, whose interests are so closely united. This will probably be the event. Maine is determined to vin- dicate her rights, and the whole country stands ready to sustain them. Maine is divided into the twelve following counties: York, Cumber- land, Lincoln, Kennebec, Waldo, Hancock, Oxford, Somerset, Penobscot, Washington, Franklin, and Piscataquis. Succession of Governors. William King, 1820. Albion K. Parris, 1S21— 1825. E. Lincoln, 1826—1829. Jonathan G. Hunton, 1830. Samuel E. Smith, 1831— 1833. Robert P. Dunlap, 1834—1837. Edward Kent, 1838. John Fairiield, 1839- Succession of Chief Justices. Prentiss Mellen, 1820—1834. Nathan Weston, 1834— The soil of Maine is various. For some miles from the sea coast it is rocky, sandy or clayey, with some fertile portions ; generally this is the least productive part of the state. Advancing into the interior, the soil increases in fertility. The average quality of the soil is considered to be equal if not superior to any other portion of New England. In some parts it is not exceeded in fertility by any section of the Union. Some of the most fertile parts of Maine are now almost a wilderness. The ability of the soil of Maine to furnish an ample supply of bread stuflFs, was fully tested in 1837, by the production of more than a million bushels of wheat, besides vast quantities of rye and corn. The natural productions in the state, already known to exist in ex- haustless quantities, are pine and hemlock timber ; granite, slate, lime, iron, and all the materials in the composition of glass. Of the first report of the learned and indefatigable Dr. Jackson, on the geology of Maine, the celebrated professor Silliman thus speaks : " Maine is a country chiefly of primary rocks, with a large division of those of transition, and towards New Brunswick it has an important region of the lower secondary. Every where it has alluvial and diluvial deposits, and vast igneous formations, not only in the interior, but form- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ing a barrier agaiust the ocean surge along a considerable part of an im- mense sea coast, indented as it is by bays and estuaries almost beyond example. Among the mineral formations of Maine, are granite, gneiss, mica and talcose, and other slates, including roofing slate and alum slate; also, soapstone, limestone and marble, sandstones and brecciated rock-s of many varieties ; jasper, including the beautiful greenstone, trap and its varieties, and porpliyrj'. The trap djkes are numerous and exceedingly distinct : They cut through most of the other rocks, and pro- duce upon them, most distinctly, those peculiar effects, which to a de- monstration prove their igneous origin. Scientific geology is greatly indebted to this survey for some of the most lucid and convincing facts on this head ; while the diluvial deposits, the boulders and ruins, the dilu- vial furrows in the rocks, the sea shells now adhering to and inherent in rocks which once formed the sea coast, although elevated twenty-six feet above the sea board, a salt spring at Lubec, and many other topics equally illustrate other parts of scientific geology. Dr. Jackson is entirely master of his subject, as well as of the kindred sciences of mineralogy and chemistry, and his report is remarkable for its lucid clearness and its attractive style." The sea coast of Maine, extending more than 230 miles, indented by an almost countless number of bays, harbors and islands of romantic beau- ty, presents facilities for navigation unrivalled by any portion of the globe. The great rivers, St. Croix, Penobscot, Kennebec, Androscoggin, and Saco, with their numerous tributaries piercing the interior, give to the farmer and mechanic a cheap and easy mode of transportation. These rivers, and thousands of ponds and other streams, dispersed throughout the state, afford a water power of vast extent and usefulness. The celebrated John Smith made an unsuccessful attempt to settle this part of the country as early as 1614. The first permanent lodgment of the whites in the state was made from the Plymouth colony, at York, in 1630. The first settlers of Maine were a race of men of good minds, stout hearts and strong arms. By them and their sons the stately forests were converted into an article of commerce, of immense value ; thus prepar- ing the soil for its ultimate staples, wheat, beef, and wool. Sec Res:ister. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Maiden, Mass. Middlesex co. A bridge over Mystic river, 2,420 feet in length, connects this town with Charles- lown. It lies 5 miles N. fi'om Bos- ton, and 16 E. by S. from Concord. First settled, 1648. Incorporated, 1649. Population, 18.30, 2,010; 1837, 2,30.3. It contains a large tract of salt meadow, and consider- able timber. The uplands are rough and uneven. The manufac- tures of Maiden consist of leather, boots, shoes, block tin, tin ware, twine, lasts, and manufactures of iron and dye-wood : total amount, the year ending April 1, 1S37, $351,160. Mancliester, N. II., Hillsborough co.,lies on the east side of Merrimack river, by which it is bounded on the W. for S miles ; on the N. and E. it is bounded by Chester, S. by Londonderry and Litchtield. There are several streams which have their origin in this town, and which discharge themselves into the Merrimack. — Cohass brook, issuing from Massa- besick pond, is the largest. It re- ceives two other small streams fi-oin the S., and empties itself at the S. W. angle of the town. Massabe- sick is a large pond, at the E. side of the town, and partly within its limits. There are several smaller ponds. The soil of a considerable part of the town is light and sandy. The intervales on the river are easy of cultivation, and productive. The canal by Amoskeag falls is in this town, and was projected and constructed by the ingenuity and perseverance of the late Samuel Blodget, Esq. At these falls ai-e the works of the Amoskeag Manufac- turing Company, where the founda- tions of another Lowell are being laid. The water power is im- mense. This town was fnrmp(i of a nart of Londonderry, a part of Chester, and a tract of land called Harry- town, and incorporated Sept. 3, 1751, by the name of IJerryfield. This name it retained until 1810, when it was changed to Manches- ter, by an act of the legislature. The venerable general John Stark had Iiis residence in this town, where he died May 8, 1822, at the great age of 93 years 8 months and 24 days. He was born at Londonderry, August 28, 1728 ; was taken prisoner by the Indians, while hunting near Baker's river, in Rumney, April 28, 1752. In 1775, he was appointed a colonel of one of the three regiments raised in New Hampshire ; was engaged on the heights of Charlestown, June 17, 1775 ; was at the battle of Tren- ton, in 1776 ; captured Col. Baum and 1,000 of the British at Benning- ton, August 16j 1777. This event, in the language of president Jeffer- son, was " the first link in the chain of successes which issued in the surrender of Saratoga." He was soon after appointed a brigadier- general of the United States army, and, at the time of his death, was the only surviving American gen- eial ollicerof the revolution. Pop- ulation, 1830, 8S7. MaiicUester, Vt. Bennington co. One of the county towns. Situated between the Green mountains on the E.,and Equinox mountain on the W. The latter is 3,706 feet above the sea. There are two neat villages in this valley ; the county buildings are in the south village. The scene- ry here is very beautiful. The town is watered by the Battenkill and its branches, and aflbrds good mill sites. The soil along the wa- ter courses is good, but the princi- pal part of the town is better for grazing than tillage. Here are large quarries of beautiful marble, some manufactures, a curious cav- ern, and about 6,000 sheep. Man- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Chester lies 22 miles N. by E. from Bennington, and about 40 W. from Bellows Falls, across the moun- tains. First settled, 1764. Popu- lation, 1830, 1,525. Dlanchester, Mass. Essex CO. This is a flourishing fishing town on Massachusetts bay, 26 miles N. E. from Boston, and 5 S. W. from (iloucester. It was taken fi-om Salem in 1645. Popu- lation, 1837, 1,346. There are a number of vessels belonging to the town employed in the fishing and coasting business. The value of th« fishery, the year ending April 1, 1837, amounted to $12,800. The value of the articles manufactur- ed was $90,473. Those articles consisted of vessels, boots, shoes, leather, chairs, cabinet ware, palm- leaf hats, and ships' wheels. The village is very pleasant, and com- mands fine pi'ospects. Although Manchester is a rocky, rough township, it can boast a rare native production in this climate, — the magnolia, a beautiful flowering tree. Manchester, Ct. Hartford co. An important man- ufacturing town on the Hockanum, a valuable mill stream, 10 miles E. from Hartford. The first cotton mill in this state was built here in 1794. Thei-e are three pleasant villages, six or seven paper mills, two powder mills, woolen and other manufactures. The face of the town is uneven, but the soil, a sandy and gravelly loam, is quite produc- tive. It was called Orfonl, a par- ish in East Hartford, until its incor- poration, in 1823. Population, 1830, 1,576. Manbegln Island, Me. This island lies off IMuscongus bay, Lincoln county. There is a light-house on it, the tower of which is 30 feet high. It bears S. from 20* the mouth of St. George's river, about 12 miles. Mansfield, Vt. Lamoille co. There is some good land in this town, on Brown's river and the branches of Water- bury river, but in general it is too mountainous even for grazing. It lies 20 miles N. W. from Montpe- lier, 20 E. by N. from Burlington, and 13 S. W. from Hyde Park.— Population, 1830, 279. First set- tled, 1799. Mansfield Mountains extend through the town of Mansfield from N. to S. They belong to the Green mountain range, and the nose and chin, so called, from their resem- blance to the face of a man lying on his back, exhibits some of the loftiest summits in the state. The nose is 3,933 feet above tide water ; the chin, 4,279. Mansfield, Mass. Bristol CO. This town lies 26 miles S. S. W. from Boston, 18 N. E. from Providence, and UN. N. AV. from Taunton. It was taken from Norton in 1770, and is watered by several branches of Taunton riv- er. The soil is thin and the sur- face level. Population, 1837,1,444. There are 6 cotton and 1 woolen mills in the town, and 2 nail facto- ries. The manufactures consist of cotton and woolen goods, nails, straw bonnets, palm-leaf hats, and baskets : total annual amount, about $110,000. A mine of anthracite coal was discovered in this town a few years since, near the Boston and Provi- dence rail road, which promises to be of inestimable value to the com- munity. It was discovered in dig- ging a well. An incorporated com- pany has purchased the right of mining on that and .several adjoin- ing farms. They sunk a shaft which struck a vein five feet in thickness, at the depth of 20 feet, ruuning N. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. E. and S.W., and dipping to the N. W. 52°. The shaft was continued 44 feet further, to another vein, which exceeded 5feet in thickness, and which afforded coal of a better quality than that found above. — Subsequent operations have shown that the veins are numerous, and the quantity inexhaustible. The coal is of an excellent quality, more easily broken than the Pennsylvani- an, and has less polish on its surface. Mansfield, Ct. Tolland co. Mansfield, the In- dian JVaiobesetuck , was taken from Windham in 1703. It lies 27 miles E. from Hartford, 12 S. E. from Tol- land, and 19 N. N. W. from Nor- wich. Population, 1830, 2,661.— The face of the town is uneven, and some of the hills have considcral)le elevation. The town is watered by Willimantic river, and the Nat- chaug and its tributaries — Mount Hope and Fenton. A larger quantity of silk is man- ufactured here than in any otlier place in the United States. This branch of industry was introduced into the country by Dr. Aspinwall, of this place, above seventy years since, who established the raising of silk worms in New Haven, Long Island and Philadelphia. At this pe- riod half an ounce of mulberry seed was sent to every parish in Con- necticut, and the legislature for a time offered a bounty on mulberry trees and raw silk : 265 lbs. wore raised in 1793, and the quantity has been increasing ever since. In 1830, 3,200 lbs. were raised. Two small silk factories have been es- tablished in this town by an English manufacturer, with swifts for wind- ing hard silk ; 32 spindles for doub- ling ; seven dozens of spindles for throwing; 32 spindles for soft silk winding ; and 2 broad and one fringe silk looms. There is macliinery enough to keep 30 broad silk looms and fifty hands in operation. There are in the town two cotton factories. Screw augers and steelyards are manufactured here. Marbleliead, Mass. Essex CO. This is a noted fishing town, on a rocky point of land ex- tending into Massachusetts bay, with a hardy and intrepid crew of fishermen and sailors. The harbor is commodious and easy of access. The quantity of fish exported fi'om this place in 1794 amounted to $184,532. Since that lime the fish- ing business has greatly increased, and this place has now become one of the largest fishing ports on the American coast. There belong to this place from 90 to 100 sail of fishing, coasting and merchant ves- sels. Tonnage of the district, in 1S37, 10,037. First settled, 1631. Incorporated, 1649. Population, 1837, 5,.549. It lies 14 miles N. E. from Boston, and 4 S. E. fiom Sa- lem. The value of the cod and mackerel fishery the year ending April 1, 1837, was $153,487; em- ploying 500 hands. The manufac- tures of Alarblehead, the same year, amounted to ,$398,565. The articles manufactured consisted of boots, shoes, bar iron, chairs, cabi- net and tin wares, vessels, soap, glue, cards and wheels. This is a romantic place ; nearly allied to its neighbor, Nahant ; — only 6 miles across the bay. Margalla'way River, N. H., Has its source among the high- lands which separate Maine from Lower Canada, in the N. E. ex- tremity of New Hampshire, about 80 miles N. from Errol. After a S. course of nearly 20 miles on the western border of Maine, it enters New Hampshire at the S. E. part of the 2d grant to Dartmouth col- lege, where it forms a junction with the united streams of Dead and Diamond rivers. Thence, after a S. course of about 6 miles to Errol, it NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. receives the waters of Umbagog Jake. After this junction the main stream is the Androscoggin river. Mariaville, Hie. Hancock co. This is a townsnip of good land, tinely located on the E. side of Union river, 8 miles N. by E. from Ellsworth, and 89 E. N. E. from Augusta. This town has an extensive water power and many saw mills. It was incorporated in 1836. Population, 1S37, 257. Klariou, Die. Washington co. This township is bounded E. by Edmonds, and S. by Whiting. Population, 245. — Incorporated, 1S34. See " Down East." Marlborougli, IV. II., Cheshire co., is bounded N. by Roxbury, E. by Dublin and .laffrcy, S. by Troy, W. by Swanzey and part of Keene. It is 6 miles S. E. from Keene, and 55 S. W. from Concord. There are several ponds which are the sources of some of the branches of Ashuelot river. — The soil is rocky, but good for graz- ing. Marlborough was granted, 1751. The tirst settlement com- menced about 1760. Incorporated Dec. 13, 1776. Population, in 1830, 822. UlarlborougK. Vt. Windham co. First settled, 1763. It lies 8 miles S. fiom Nevvfane, and 2t E. from Bennington. Pop- ulation, 1330, 1,218. Mrs. Whitte- more, the wife of one of the first settlers, spent the winter of 1764-5 in this then wilderness, alone, her husband being absent in the pursuit of his calling, as a tinker. During this winter she saw no human be- ing, except her little daughter and .some hunters who happened acci- dentally to pass that way. She cut down timber and furni'^hed browse for their cattle, and thus kept them alive throu2;h the winter. Mrs. W. was very useful to the settlers, both as a nurse and a midwife. She pos- sessed a vigorous constitution, and frequently travelled through the woods upon snow shoes from one part of the town to another, both by night and day, to relieve the dis- tressed. She lived to the age of 87 years, officiated as midwife at more than 2,000 births, and never lost a patient. The town is well watered by the W. branch of West river. Whet- stone brook, and Green river. It has a good soil, and is very produc- tive in wheat, rye, and other grain, fruit and potatoes. Here is a pleas- ant village, several tine trout ponds, various kinds of minerals and me- dicinal springs. Marlborough suf- fered some by the Indians, and did much for the cause of independ- ence. Marlljox'ougli, Mass. Middlesex co. This is a large farming town, with a soil of great fertility and undulating surface. — The inhabitants are principally de- voted to agricultural pursuits, and by their industry and skill, have ac- quired a great degree of independ- ence. Among the productions of the town, are fat cattle, pork, fruit, and all the varieties of the dairy ; a large amount of which is annually sent to Boston market. A branch of Concord river, and a number of beautiful ponds, water the town. — The manufactures consist of boots, shoes, straw bonnets, leather, chairs and cabinet ware : annual amount, about i$75,000. Marlborough, the Indian Ohamakamesit, was first settled in 165 4. It was taken from Sudbury in 1660 ; it suffered much during the Indian wars, and was for many years the residence of a number of Indians who had em- braced the christian religion. The villages are very pleasant : the richness of the soil, and surround- ing scenery ; its excellent roads and convenient access to Boston by the NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. rail road, renders Marlborough a desirable residence. It is 2S miles W. from Boston, 14 S. \V. from Con- cord, and 16 E. from Worcester. — Population, 1837, 2,089. Marlborovigli Ct. Hartford co. Marlborough was taken from three towns which be- longed to three different counties, in 1803. It lies 14 miles S. E. from Hartford. The sui-face of the town is hilly and stony, and the lands best adapted for grazing. It has a cotton factory, a bed of black lead, and a good fish pond. Dark holloiv, in the western part of the town, presents some wild scenery of more terror than beauty. Pop- ulation, 1830, 704. Marlow, N. H. Cheshire co. It is 15 miles N. fi'om Keene, and 45 W. by S. from Concord. Ashuelot river passes through almost the whole length of the town. There are no ponds of note, nor any mountains. Marlow was chartered, 1761. Population, 1830, 645. Mai-sUfield, Vt. Washington co. This town, con- taining 23,040 acres, was granted to the Stockbrid^e Indians in 1782, and sold by them to Isaac Marsh, in 1789, for £140. A part of the soil is good and a part wet and stony. The town produces considerable wool, and some cattle are reared for market. It has a pleasant pond, and Onion river passes through it. It lies 12 miles N. E. from Mont- pelier. First settled, 1790. Pop- ulation, 1830, 1,271. Marslifield, Mass. Plymouth co. A pleasant town on Massachusetts bay, 25 miles S. E. from Boston, and 15 N. by W. from Plymouth. It is watered by North and South rivers, has a toler- able harbor, and some navigation. Ship building is an important branch of business in the town. Here are two cotton mills, an air and cupola furnace, a nail factory, and manu- factures of cotton and satinet warp. Peregrine White, the first Eng- lish child born in New England, died here in 1704, aged 83. Incor- porated, 1640. Population, 1837, 1,660. Mars Hill, Me. This celebrated mountain is situ- ated about a mile west from the east boundary of the United States ; — 200 miles N. N. E. from Augusta, and 80 N. W. from Frederickton, New Brunswick. The British Queen seems desir- ous of annexing this portion of the territory of the United States to her wide and fair possessions. This notion of the pretty maiden is alto- gether preposterous : when she has maturely considered the treaty made by her grandfather and the United States, at Pai-is, in 1783, we trust her good sense will deter her from urging the claim. The approach to this mountain is diificult : its sides are rugged, and its summit bold. It has two spurs ; one of which is 1,50G, the other 1,363 feet above the waters of Goosequill river, in New Bruns- wick. Marshpee, Mass. Barnstable co. An ancient In- dian territory, and an incorporated district of 10,500 acres, or about 16 square miles. It lies 12 miles S. E. from Barnstable, 8 S. S. E. from Sandwich, and 8 E. from Falmouth. It is bounded on the S. by the ocean. There are 350 colored inhabitants on this territory, and some whites. There now remain only seven in- habitants, of pure blood of the tlUh- ers of the forest. Their land is good for grain of all sorts, and is well wooded. The territory is pleas- ant, and some parts of it afford beau- tiful scenery. The Marshpee and Quashmet are considerable streams. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. which, with niiinerous ponds and the ocean, afTord an abundant suj)- ply of tish ol" various kinds. These people live by agricultural pursuits, the manufacture of various articles of Indian ware, by the sale of their wood, and by lishing, fowlin^i, and taking deer. They are docile and hospitable ; they appear to i-elish moral and religious instruction ; aud, under the superintendence of a hu- mane and intelligent commissioner, appointed by the state, they are prosperous aii( Towns. ToiKiu;. Charlestown, (1 3 Milton, 1 Berlin, 6 Clieliiisrord, 4 Needham, 1 1 iBolton, Concord, 4 Quincy, 2 5' Boylston, 7 Dracut, 3 Randolph, 2 3 Brooktield, 9 Dunstable, 6 Roxbury, 5 Charlton, 3 Framinj^ham, 9 Sharon, 9 Dana, 5 Groton, 5 Stoughton, 1 6 Douglas, 3 Holliston, 5 Walpole, 1 2 Dudley, 2 Hopkinton, 7 Weymouth, 2 4 Fitchburgh, 9 Lexington, 3 Wrentham, 1 8 Gardner, 1 Lincoln, 6 — — Gral'ton, 2 1 Littleton, 8 28 91 Hardwick, 2 Lowell, Harvard, 2 Maiden, 9 1 Nantucket. Holden, 3 Marlborough, 6 iJVantucket, 6 Hubbardston, 4 Medford, 7 — — Lancaster, 3 \atick. G Leicester, 6 Xewton, 2 Plymouth. Leominster, 4 Pepperell, 4 Abington, 2 o Lunenburgh, 9 Rcadinsr. 8 Bridgewater, 1 Gi Mendon, 5 Sherburne, iCarver, 'jkMilthrd,' 3 Shirley, 8 Duxbury, 2 Millbury, 8 South Reading, 3 E. Brid'gewater, 1 6 .\ew Braintree, 7 Stonchani, Halifax, 7 Norlhborough, 9 Stow, Hanover, 1 l;jMortiibridge, 1 Sudburv, I Hanson, 8||i\. Brooktield, 3 Tewksbury, 7 Hingham, o 4! Oakham, 9 Townsend, £ Hull, 11 Oxford, 7 Tynjsborough, 8 Kingston, 1 1 Paxton, 6 Waltliam, 6 Marshlield, 1 Petersham, 3 Watcrtown, 1 4| Middleborough, 3 ~\ I'hillipston, S Way land, 7 N. Bridgewater, 1 8 I'rincc'on, W. Cambridge, 2 Pembroke, 1 RoyaJston, 2 Wcstford, Plymouth, 3 s Rutland, Weston, Plympton, 7 Shrewsbury, 3 Wilmington, 7 Rochester, 2 3 Southborough, Woburn, 2 1 Scituate, 2 C< Southbridge, 4 — VVareham, 1 7 Spencer, 2 52 is-i W. Bridgewater, (i Sterling, Sturbridge, 2 5 JVORFOLK. 24 93 Sutton, 8 Bellingham, 1 Templeton, 4 Braintrec, 1 8 Suffolk. Upton, 2 Hrookline, 1 Boston, 5G G Lxbridge, 7 Canton, 1 7 Chelsea, 1 6 Warren, Cohasset, 1 — ' Webster, 9 Dedham, '2 G 57 11 Westborough, 3 Dorchester, '2 7 W. Boylston, 1 Dover, 4 WORCKSTER. Westminster, 3 Foxborough, 1 1 Asljbunihain, I ; Oil Stone." Tiiis ma- terial is tran-:ported and manufac- tured. Sec Burke, Vt. Menau Islauils. Grand Menan belongs to the British, and lies of!' tl>e mouth of St. Croix river, and Passamaquoddy bay. It is 16 miles in length, and its average hreadth is ahout 5. On the south side are a number of isi- snds, and several small harbor.s. The inhabitants arc principally fish- ermen. Little Menan, or "Petit Menan," in Washington county, ]\Ie. lies off the harbors of Goldsi)orough and Steuben. It has a light liouse, with a tower 25 feet in height. It lies about ;5 n)iles S. S. E. from Golds- borough harbor. Meudon, Vt. Rutland co. This was formerly called Parkerstown,and lies 47 miles S. S. W. from Monlpelier, and S E. from Rutland. There is some good land in the town, but it is genei-ally too high up the Green mountains for cultivation. Population, 1830,432. Mendon, IVIass. Worcester co. The Indian name of this town was Quanshipaugc. It was first settled by people from Roxbury, al>out the year 1047. In- corporated, 1667. Mendon is a township of variegated surface, ex- cellent soil, and in a good state of cultivation. The products of the dairy are large and valuable. — Blackstone river and canal pass its soutliwestern border, and i\Iill rivor traverses its whole extent. These streams afford an excellent hydrau- lic power. There are 8 cotton and 4 woolen mills in the town, and manufactures of boots, shoes, iron castings, scythes, ploughs, straw bonnets, palm-leaf hats, machinery, wagons and harnesses; total value, 21* the year ending April 1, 1837, — ,f 62!),2S2. This very pleasant and llouri-^hing town lies 32 miles S. W. from Jioston, 18 S. E. from Worces- ter, and 22 N. from Providence. Population, 1830, 3,153; 1837,3,657. fiercer, Me. Somerset co. Mercer has a fine soil, and is watered by a beautiful pond. It lies 32 miles N. N. W. iVom Augusta, and 6 S. W. from Norridgcwock. Incorporated, 1804. The village near tlie pond is beau- tifully located. Wheal crop, 1837, 6,86S bushels. Population, same year, 1,525. Mereditli, IV. H., Strafford co., is bounded N. by CenU-e Harbor and Winnepisiogee lake, N. E. and E. by said lake and river, S. E. by Great bay, S. and S. W. by Sanbornton, W. and N. W. by New Hampton and Centre Harbor. This town was incorporated, in 1767, and was first called J\''ew Sa- lem. It lies 29 miles N. from Con- cord, and 8 N. AV. from Gilford. There is in this town a pond adjoin- ing Centre Haj-bor, about 2 miles long and one wide, emptying into the lake, near the village; be- sides this there are several smaller jjonds. There is probably no town in the country more pleasantly and advantasjeously situated, or of a bet- ter soil, than Meredith. The wa- ters of the Winnepisiogee washing the boundaries of a great part of the town, convey many heavy mercan- tile articles to and from almost the doors of several of the inhabitants in the summer; and in the winter, the ice serves as a level and easy I'oad. Near the upper or N. W. pai't of the town, the traveler pass- ing along the road, is presented with a very beautiful landscape. On the E. and S. E. the placid Winne- pisiogee, the largest lake in New Ilampshli-e, with its numerous isl- ands, arrests the eye, and bounds the circle of visior\ in a S. E. di- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. rection. On the N. E., Ossipec mountain rises boldly to view. On the N., the prospect is intercepted by Red Hill, a pleasant and noted eminence in Moultonborough, only a few miles distant. At Meredith Bridge is a handsome and flourish- ing village, and the scat of much business. Here are 2 cotton mills, an extensive tannery, oil mill, &c., in another village are also some im- portant manufactures. The water power of Meredith is immense. It is connected with the principal village of Gilford by a bridge over the Winnepisiogee. Hon. Ebeivezer Smith, moved into this town at an earlj' period of its settlement, and was as a father to the new settlers for many years. He died Aug. 22, 1807, aged 73. Population, "in 1S30, 2,683. Meriden, Ct. New Haven co. This hilly and somewhat mountainous township has, in general, a fertile soil, and is watered by Quinnepiac river. It lies 17 miles S. E. from Hartford, and 17 N. W. from New Haven. It was formerly a part of Walling- ford, and incorporated in 1806. — Population, 1830, 1,708. This is one of the most flourish- ing and enterprising manufacturing towns in the state. There is a con- siderable variety of manufactures here, forming the chief employment of the inhabitants. The following is a list of the manufactories, viz : 2 for patent augers and auger bits, 3 for ivory combs, 6 for tin ware, 4 for Britannia ware, 2 iron foundries, 1 manufactory for coffee mills, 1 for clocks, 1 for Norfolk door latclies, 3 for block tin spoons, 1 for wood combs, 1 for skates and iron rakes, and 1 for gridirons. The value of articles manufactured yearly, has been estimated from 800,000 to 1,000,000 of dollars. About thirty years since a road was constructed from the north- western part oJ Meriden to Berlin, through a narrow and romantic glen, between two ridges of the Blue mountains; this pass, which is more than a mile in extent, is called the Cat Hole. In some parts of this glen there is but barely room for a path ; small angular fragments of rocks lise on. each side, at about an angle of forty five degrees: these rocks have been beaten down and covered with earth, which must have been brought here for the purpose. A few yards south of this place, elevated perpendicular rocks appear on the left, one of which has very much the appearance of a pro- file of the human face, and it is thought by some to i-esemble in a slight degree the profile of Wash- ington. Following the foot of the mountain on the right, for about a mile, you will find large pieces of rocks lying upon each other in great disorder, which have evidently fal- len from the precipitous heights above. Underneath these rocks ice may be found in almost every month in the year. A spring issues from between them, called the Cold Spring, and is a place of resort for parties in summer. Merrimacis River, K. H., One of the principal rivers of New England, is foi-med of two branches. The N. branch called Pemigewasset, rises near the Notch of the White mountains, and passes southwardly through the corner of Franconia, Lincoln, Peeling, Thorn- ton and Cair.pton, forming the bound- ary between Plymouth and Holder- ness, and also the boundary line be- tween the counties of Strafford and Grafton fioin the S. corner of Hol- dcrness to near its junction with the Winnepisiogee. It receives several considerable branches in its course; Mad river in Campion, Baker's in Plymouth ; and streams flowing from Squam and Newfound lakes, with numerous small tributaries. — The E. branch is the Winnepisio- gee, through which pass the waters NEW ENGLAND CAZF.TTEEU. of the lake of that name. The de- scent of this hrancli from the lake to its jiinctioii willi the Pciiiij;e\vassct, is 232 feet. The conlluent stream bears the name of Mei-iimack, and pursues a S. course, 78 miles, to Chelmsford, IVIass. ; thence an E. course, .35 miles, to the sea at New- huryport. On the N. line of Con- cord, the Contoocook discharges its waters into the Merrimack. The Soucook becomes a tributary in Pembroke, and the Suncook be- tween Pembroke and Allenstown. The Piscataciuop; unites in Bedford ; the Souheixan in Moiiimack, and a beautiful river called Nashua in Nashua. The principal tributaries are on the W. siilc of the river, mostly risine; in the highlands be- tween the Connecticut and Merri- mack. Tliere are numerous falls in this river, the most noted of which arc Garven's, in Concoi-d, the falls in Hooksett, and Aiiios- keag in (JofTstown and ^Manchester. These falls are all rendered passa- ble by locks, and boat navigation has for several years been extended as far as Concord. There are sev- eral bridges over the Merrimack, and its pi-incipal branches, besides a number of ferries. The Merri- mack, whose fountains are nearly on a level with the Connecticut, being much shorter in its course, has a far more rapid descent to the sea than the latter river. 1 Fence the intervales on its borders arc less ex- tensive, and the scenery less beau- tiful, than on the Connecticut. It is, however, a majestic river; its waters are generally pure and heal- thy ; and on its borders arc situated some of the most flourishing towns in the state. The name of this riv- er was originally wi-ittcn Mcrra- macke and Monnomake, which in the Indian language signified a stiirs;eon. Its width varies from 50 to 120 rods ; and at its mouth it pre- sents a beautiful sheet of half a mile in width. BlcrrimacU County, N. H. Concord is the county town. The county of Merrimack is bound- ed N. E. by the county of Straf- ford, S. E. by the county of Rock- ingham, S. W. by the county of Hillsborough, and N. W. by the counties of Sullivan and Grafton. Its greatest length is 38 miles; its breadth at the broadest part is 26 miles. It contains an area oi 506,000 acres. The surface is un- even, and in some parts rugged and mountainous; but its general fertility, is perhai)s equal to either of the other counties in the state. In the towns of Ilopkinton, Henni- ker, Boscawen, Salisbury, Canter- bury, Concord, &c., are seen many extensive and well cultivated farms. The northerly part of the county is rough and mountainous. Kearsarge is the highest mountain, its summit being 2,461 feet above the level of the sea. It is composed of a range of hills, running north and south about six miles ; its general aspect is rugged and craggy, excepting when its roughness is shaded by the woody covering that darkens its sides. The Ragged mountains, so called, from their appearance, lie northeast of Kearsarijo, and be- tween Andover and Hill. These are nearly 2,000 feet high at the north points of the range. Bear's Hill, in Norlhfield, Sunapee moun- tain, in Newbury, Catamount, in Pittsfield, and the peak in Hook- sett, are the other most considerable elevations. A i)art of lake Suna- pee lies in Newbury ; and there are numerous ponds interspersed tliroughout the whole territory. The Merrimack river meanders through nearly the centre of the county, and foi-ms the boundary some distance at the northeastern part. It receives from the west the Blackwater and Contoocook rivers, and from the east, Soucook and Sun- cook, and other smaller streams. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. This county was constituted by an act of the lea,islature, 1 July, 1S23 — being taken from the coun- ties of Rockingham and Hillsbo- borough, len towns being separated from tlie former, and thirteen fi-om the latter. Population, 1820, 32,- 843; 1830, 34,619. Twenty four towns, 44 inhabitants to a squaic mile. In 1837, there were 66,152 sheep in this county. Merrimack, ]V. II., Hillsborough co., is bounded N. by Bedford, E. by Litchfield, S. by Nashua, and W. by Amherst. — It is 6 miles S. E. fi'om Amherst, and 27 S. from Concord. Merii- mack river waters its E. border through its whole extent, opening a communication by water from this place to Boston. Souhegan en- ters tliis town from Amherst, pur- sues a winding course to the Mer- rimack, where it dischai-ges itself one mile above Thornton's ferry. There are fine water piivileges on this stream. Babboosuck brook, issuing from Babboosuck pond in Amherst, empties into Souhegan river, and Penicliook brook from a pond in Hollis, forms the soutiiern boundary. The soil in various pla- ces is very fertile, but a considera- ble portion of the land is plain. There are some fine intervales on the Merrimack. Some of the best and most extensive water privileges the county affords, about 1 1-2 mile from the Merrimack, on Souhegan river, lie unimproved. This town claims the first discove- ry in this region of making what are called leghorn bonnets. They were first made several years since, by the Misses Burnaps. Some of their bonnets were sold at auction in Boston for $50. This town was formerly called Souhegan East. It was incorjjo- rated, 1746, having been settled about 13 years. The first house in this town was erected on the margin of the river for a house of traffic with the In- dian=;. F'or some time one Crom- well caiuied on a lucrative trade with the Indians, weighing tlieir furs with his foot, till, enraged at his supposed or real deception, they formed the resolution to mur- der him. This intention was com- municateil to Ciomwell, who buried his wealth and made his escape. Within a few hours alter his flight, a party of the Peiiacook tribe arriv- ed, and not finding the object of their resentment, they burnt his habitation. Hon. Matthew Thornton, one of the signers of the Declara- tion of American Independence, resided many years in this town. He died in 1303, at the age of 89. Populaiion, 1S30, 1,191. MciTymeetiiig Bays. Merrymeeting Bay, in Maine, is at the junction of the Androscoggin with the Kennebec, about 5 miles above Bath. It is a large expanse of water, and contains Swan and other islands. The passage through this bay, of 10 or 12 miles in length, is delightful. Mtrrymeeling Bay, in New Hampshire, is an arm of Winne- pisiogee lake, extending about 1,SOO rods into the town of Alton, and is 27 miles from the navigable waters of Piscataqua river. Melliiicn, Mass. Essex CO. In this town is a beau- tiful water fall of 30 feet, on Spick- et river, which furnishes an excel- lent hydraulic power. Methuen lies on the N. bank of Merrimack river, and is 25 miles N. by W. from Boston, and 20 N. W. by N. from Salem. It was tivken from Haver- hill in 1725. Population, 1830, 2,011 ; 1837, 2,463. There are 2 cotton, and 2 paper mills in the town, and manufactures of leather, shoes, hats, ploughs, segars, essen- ces, chaises, harnesses, chairs, tin and cabinet wares, and piano-forte NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. frames: value, for the year ending April 1, 1S37, $4(>2,525. An ex- cellent bed of peat has recently been discovered. It is 1-1 feet in depth, and very extensive. The soil of Methucn is very good, the village is pleasant, and the scenery around it, romantic and beautiful. Mexico, Me. Oxford CO. This town lies on the north side of Androscoggin river, and is watered by two of its tribu- taries. It has a good soil and a good water power. It lies 17 miles W. N. W. from Augusta, and 20 N. from Paris. Incoi-porated, ISIS. Population, 1337, 147. Wheat crop, same year, 1,552 bushels. Middleboroiigli, Mass. Plymouth co. This is the Indian J\''amasket ; formerly thickly popu- lated by the people of that tribe, and governed by the noted sachem Tispacan. On the rocks, in this town, are the prints of naked hands and feet, supposed to be the work of the Indians. Here are numer- ous ponds, several kinds of tish,and large quantities cf iron ore is found in the ponds. These ponds, of which the Asfiawamset and Long pond aie the largest, empty into Taunton river, and produce an extensive wa- ter power. This town lies 34 miles S. by E. from Boston, 14 S. S. W. from Ply- mouth, and 10 S. E. from Taunton. Incorporated, 1660. I'opulation, 1837, 5,005. Thi< is probably the largest town in the state : it is 15 miles in length, and about 9 aver- age breadth : it has several pleasant villages. There are 2 cotton mills, 2 forges, an air and cujiola furnace, a nail factory, and manufactures of leather, shovels, spades, forks, ploughs, wrought nails, chairs, cab- inet ware, tacks, straw bonnets, and various other articles: total value, in one year, $200,000. In 1763, Shubael Thompson found a land turtle, marked on the shell J. W., 1747. Thomi).son marked it and let it go. I->lijal> Chipp found it in 1773; William Shaw found it in 1775; Jonathan Soule found it in 17S1; Joscpli Soule found it in 1790, and Zenas Smith, in 1791 : each mai-ked it with his initials. Wheth- er the critter is 2. Middleton, Mass. Essex CO. A pleasaut town on hoth sides of Ipswich river, 19 miles N. from Boston, and 7 N. W. from Salem. This place contains a large and expensive paper mill. This is the principal manufacturing con- cern in the town. Incorporated, 172S. Population, 1S37, 671. :niiddletown, Vt. Rutland co. This town lies be- tween two mountains, is watered by Poultney river, and has a good soil for grazing. It keeps, among other cattle, about 4,000 sheep. It lies 14 miles S. W. from Rutland. It has a neat and flourishing vil- lage, a woolen factory, marble fac- tory, and other manufactures. — Population, 1830, 919. UliddlctoAvu, Ct. Chief town of Middlesex co. — MiDDLETOWN City, and port of entry, lies on the W. bank of Con- necticut river, 30 miles from its mouth, 1,5 S. from Hartford, 21 N. E. from New Haven, 35 N. W. from New London. Lat. 41° 34' N., long. 72' 39' \V. The city is very pleasantly situated on ground rising giaduaily from the river. The j)riiicipal street, called Jifain street, runs parallel with the river. This and otlier streets, are inter- sected by cross streets, leading to the river. The wharves are commodious for shipping, there being ten feet of water for all vessels that can cross the bar at the mouth of the river. Two high wharves are appropria- ted for two lines of steam-boats, of a large class, which afford a daily com- munication with the cities of New York and Hartford. The streets and side-walks are pleasantly shaded with trees, and the side-walks are remarkably well paved. The population of the city, is about 3,500 ; of the town, above 7,000. The public edifices are a court- house in the Grecian style of arch- itecttire, built in 1832; a custom- house handsomely built of Chatham freestone ; 2 banks, and a savings bank, fcc. The places of public worship in the city, and the princi- pal houses and stores are of brick, many of which arc built with great taste. The Wesleyan Uiviversity, under the patronage of the Metho- dist Episcopal church, was founded in 1831, and is very rapidly acquir- ing a high standing. It has now 1()0 stuiients. Its officers are a president and 5 professors. The college buildings command an extensive view of the surround- ing country, as well as of the val- ley of the Connecticut, so justly famed for its beauty. The college library, with those belonging to the societies, comprises about 10,000 volumes. It has ma- ny rare and choice works, an entire set of the ].,atin Cla^sic-s, and most of the Greek, a set of the Piiilosophical Transactions, and all of the most important later scientiiic worka of NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. France. There is also a collection of bibles and testaments in 81 lan- guages and dialects, oriental, &.C., into which the bible has been trans- lated. The philosophical and astronomi- cal apparatus, has been lately in- creased at great expense. There is a telescope, with a six inch oljject glass, a splendid altitude and Azi- muth instrument, so constructed as to be used for meridian transits. Russell's magniiicent Orrery, an unrivalled instrument, and the only one of the kind. There is a noble Plate Electrical machine, with two plates 36 inches in diameter, &c. The chemical department has a good laboratory and apparatus. — The cabinet of minerals is becom- ing extensive. In geology, besides specimens, there are several valu- able charts to ilhistrate the ditfercnt states, and many districts of Eng- land. In botany, there are several of the best standard works, and for the preservation of the science, tlie richness in species of the native plants about Middletown, is not surpassed by any location in New England. The place is also remai-k- able for the variety and abundance of its rare minerals. The rising reputation of its uni- versity, the great salubrity of its atmosphere, and the activity of its manufacturing capital, render Mid- dletown equally attractive to the traveler, the man of science, or of business. There are besides in this city, several fine cabinets of shells, insects, minerals, &,c., and an Her- barium of considerable extent, of North American as well as of Eu- ropean plants, also several choice private libraries. The library of the Rev. Dr. Jar- vis, contains 13,000 volumes of ex- ceeding choice books, collected by him, during a residence of sev- eral years in Europe, and his gal- lery of about 120 paintings, is re- garded as being very valuable. — About 70 of these pictures formed the gallery of the Archbishop of Tarento at Naples, and are of the old masters — Titian, Rubens, Tin- toretto, Salvator Rosa, Carlo Dolce, Lueca, Giordano, Jordens, Spagno- letto, &c. There is also in another collection some very fine paintings of the old masters, and an exqui- site piece of statuary by the Cheva- lier P. Marchesi of Milan, repre- senting Christ when 12 years of age ! This is the only work of the distinguished sculptor, that has yet arrived in this counti'y. The township fiom N. to S. is about 9 miles long, its breadth va- rying from 4 to 10 miles at its great- est aiea, or about 43,520 acres. — The Indian name of the town was Mattabesett. The town is divided into 4 societies or parishes. There is in the city a prepara- tory school connected with the uni- versity, as well as several flourish- ing private schools. The public record? of this town commenced in 1654. The city was incorporated in 1784. The burial grounds contain many curious, as well as antique monu- ments of its earliest settlers. The burial ground at the N. part of the city, and by the river, was laid out in 1650. Middletown meadows, north of the city, contain about 640 acres. The height of the base of the village is 160 feet above the river, and is from it, five eighths of a mile. Main street is from 40 to 50 feet above the river. The Connecticut river is here geneially closed with ice about the middle of December, and opens about the end of the third week in March. The manufactures in this city, are 3 establishments on a large scale for the manufacture of arms, for the United States service ; broadcloths and cotton goods, brit- annia and tin wares, stoves, combs, tubs, machinery, steam engines. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER cotton machinery, paper, powder, jewelry, brass ware, steel pens, buttons, looking-glasses, carriages, carpenter's tools and locks, besides many manufactures of minor im- portance. Geology. Middletown rests on secondary red sandstone : within 2 miles of the city, south, there is a granite ridge, here known by the name of the White rocks. It runs N. N. E., and forms tlie straits of the Connecticut river. This granite ridge is from 400 to GOO feet above the tide water. Here occurs an in- exhaustible quantity of the finest feldspar, the material used for the glaze of porcelain. This was first brought into notice in 1S33, at the recommendation of Dr. Barrett. A large quantity of it has been sent to Europe, as well as being used in this country, and it has been proved to be of the best quality. The feldspar is often so pure at the quarry opened on the Haddam road, that masses of several hun- dred weight occur without any ad- mixture of quartz and mica. Middletown, R. I. Newport co. This is the middle township on the island of Rhode Island. It lies 2 miles N. E. from Newport, and 28 S. bj^ E. fiom Providence. The surface of the town is undulating, and aflbrds ma- ny interesting and beautiful land- scapes. The soil is a rich loam, very productive and under a high state of cultivation ; the lands are highly valued and command a great price. The inhabitants of the town are principally farmers; they are distinguished for their habits of in- dustry and economy, and for tlie unitbrmity, plainness, and simplici- ty of their manner of living. The products of the town consist of corn, barley, hay, and great varie- ties of fruits and vegetables for Newport market. Incorporated, 1743. Population, 1830,915. MUoii, ST. H., Coos CO., is 139 miles N. by E. from Concord, and about 22 N. E. from Lancaster. This tract was granted in 1771, and was called Pauhburgh,m\ii\ 1824. The Up- per Amonoosuck and Androscoggin rivers pass through this town. — There are several ponds, and some considerable mountains. Popula- tion, 1830, 57. Milford, Me. Penobscot county. See " Down East." MUford, N. H., Hillsborough co., is bounded E. by Amherst, and is 31 miles S. by W. from Concord. Milford lies on both sides of Souhegan river, which runs through the town from W. to E., forming a rich meadow or inter- vale, from 1-4 to 1-2 a mile wide. The banks of this river are annual- ly overtlowed, by which means, the soil, which is black and deep, is much enriched. This town has ex- cellent water privileges, and there is a valuable factory in the village. Population, 1S30, 1,303. Milf»i'd, Mass. Worcester co. This town, the Indian TVopotcai^e, is well watered by Charles and Mill rivers. It lies 28milesS.W. byW.from Boston, and 18 S. E. from Worcester. Incorpoi-a- ted, 1780. Population, 1S37, 1,637. The soil is generally fertile, and the surface pleasantly diversified. The manufactures of the town, for the year ending April 1, 1837, amounted to $257,671. They con- sisted of cotton goods, leather, boots, shoes, chairs, tin and cabinet wares, straw bonnets, varnish, clothing, shoe pegs, wagon irons, and whips. Milford, Ct. New Haven co. This is one of the towns which composed the " Old Jurisdiction of New Haven." NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. The settlement commenced in 1639. The first purchase of land was made of the Indians, for the considera- tion of " 6 coats, 10 blankets, 1 kettle, besides a number of hoes, knives, hatchets, and glasses." The Indians made a reservation of 20 acres in the town, which was sold by them, in 1661, for 6 coats, 2 blankets, and a pair of breeches. Milford is bounded W. by Housa- tonick river, and S. E. by Long Island Sound. The Indian name of the place was Wepaivaug. The town is generally level, and the soil productive. There is a quarry of beautiful serpentine marble in the town, and a harbor for small vessels. Poconock or Milford point is a noted place, where are a number of huts on the beach, occupied by persons engaged in the oyster and clam business. Milford village is very pleasant, and the scenery variegated and in- teresting. Population, 1837, about 2,800. Millbury, Mass. Worcester co. Millbury was taken from Sutton, in 1813. It lies 42 miles W. S. W. from Boston, and 6 S.E. fi-om Worcester. Branch- es of the Blackstone river rise in the town, and the Blackstone canal passes through it. It is a very pleasant manufacturing place, with a valuable water power. There are 1 paper, 6 woolen, and 1 cotton mills ; and manufactures of boots, shoes, leather, hats, scythes, spades, forks, hoes, ploughs, muskets, trying squares, levels, trowels, machinery, black lead, tin ware, sashes and blinds: total value, the year ending April 1, 1837, $566,150. Popula'^ tion, 1837, 2,153. Miller's Rivers. Miller'' s River, in Vermont, rises in Sheffield, Caledonia county, and passing through a part of Wheelock f.ills into the Passumpsick at Lyn- don. Miller's River, in Massachusetts, rises in ponds in Ashburnham, and Winchendon ; it has many trib- utaries, and passes through Athol, Orange, and Wendell, and falls into the Connecticut at Erving. This is a noble mill stream. Milliuoket Lake, Me. This is a large body of water in the county of Penobscot, the re- cipient of many rivers. It is an important source of the west branch of Penobscot river. Its outlet is a river of the same name, and unites with the waters of Pemadumcook lake, near the Great falls at the out- let of the Pemadumcook. Mill River, Mass. See Springfield. Millsfieltl, N. H., Coos CO., is 7 miles W. from Um- bagog lake, and about 35 N.from the White mountains. Clear stream waters its N. extremity, and Phil- lip's river with several small streams the other parts. Here are several ponds, the largest is about 300 rods long, 140 wide. Millsfield was granted in 1774, and was nam- ed after Sir Thomas Mills, a gran- tee. It had but 33 inhabitants in 1830. Milo, Me. Piscataquis co. This is a beau- tiful township on the fertile banks of Sebec and Pleasant rivers, at their union with the Piscataquis. It lies 103 miles N. E. from Augus- ta, and 15 N. E. from Dover. Pop- ulation, 1830, 381 ; 1837, 640.— Wheat crop, 1837, 4,514 bushels. Incorporated, 1823. Milton, Me. Piscataquis co. Population, 1837, 352. Wheat crop, same year, 1,323 NEW ENGLAXD GAZETTEER, bushels. 94 miles from Augusta. See " Down East." MUton, N. II. Strafford co. The Salmon Fall river washes its whole E. bounda- ry, a distance of 13 miles ; and a brancii of the same river crosses from the S. part of Wakefield, and unites near the centre of tlic E. boundary. Teneriffc, a bold and rocky uiountain, extends along the E. part of Milton, near which lies Milton pond, of considerable size, connecting with the Salmon Fall river. This town was formerly a part of Rochester, from which it was detached in 1802. It lies 40 miles N. E. fi-om Concord, and 20 N. \V. by N. from Dover. Popu- lation, 1830, 1,273. Milton, Vt. Chittenden co. Milton is bound- ed on the W. by lake Champlain, and is finely watered by the rivei- Lamoille. It lies 12 miles N. from Burlin£;ton, and 40 N. W. from Montpelier. Population, 18.30, 2,- 100. The soil of tlie town is gen- erally good, and about 9,000 sheep graze in its pastures. There are some places in Milton worthy of the traveller's notice. A little distance from the neat and nourishing vil- lage are the Great falls, on the La- moille. In the course of 50 rods the whole river falls 150 feet. — About the middle of the rapid is a small island, by which the water passes on each side, with great vi- olence and loud roai'ing. The scen- ery on the banks of the river is wild and beautiful. There are some mills on the river, and consid- erable trade on the lake. Milton, Mass. Norfolk CO. This interesting and pleasant town, the Uncataquinsit of the Indians, lies 7 miles S. from Boston, and 6 E. from Dedhara. Neponset river washes its northern border and alfords numerous valua- ble mill sites. Tliis town was taken from Dorchester, in 1662. Popu- lation, 1837, 1,772. A large part of the land is a gravelly loam, strong and very productive. The manu- factures consist of paper, granite, leather, hats, chairs, cabinet ware, I)laying cards, &.c. : total annual amoun't, about .f 100,000. The man- ufacture of paper from beach grass has recently been commenced, and promises to be a good substitute for rags, for the more common kinds. The village called the " Mills," comprising a part of Dorchester, at the head of navigation, on the Ne- ponset, is a wild, romantic place, and ever since the first settlement of the country, has been the seat of considerable trade and manufacture. The village at the rail-road, near the granite quarry, in Quincy, about a mile S. E. of the " Mills," is very pleasant and flourishing. — By a new and beautiful bridge, called the " Granite bridge," across the Neponset, the distance to the city is reduced to 6 miles. Milton contains some elegant country seats, and much delightful scenery. The views from " Milton Hill," near the head of the Ne- ponset ; and " Blue Hill," a cele- brated land mark for sailors, 710 feet above the sea, in the south part of the town, 12 miles fi'om Boston, are among the most admired in our country. Minot, Me. Cumberland co. Minot is a large and excellent township of land with three very pleasant villages. The Androscoggin passes its eastern bor- der and Little Androscoggin sepa- rates it from Poland, on the S. This is one of the most flourishing towns in the state. Although agriculture is the chief business of the people of Minot, yet its water powei' is so val- uable, that manufactures of various kinds are springing up with promis- ing success. Minot is connected with Lcwiston, across the Andros- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. coggin, by a bridge. It lies 3.3 miles S. W. from Augusta, and 3.5 N. from Portland. Population, in 1830, 2,908 ; 1837, 3,326. Incor- porated, 1802. Wheat crop, 1837, 7,266 bushels. Missisque River, Vt. This crooked river is about 75 miles in length. It rises in Orleans county, and passes N. into Canada, about 5 miles ; it then returns to the state at the N. E. corner of Franklin county, and after mean- dering througli the north part of that county, it falls into Missisque hay at Highgate. There are sev-, eral falls on this river, which afford numerous mill sites ; but it is gen- erally sluggish in its course, and being wide, is rather shallow. Its waters fertilize a large portion of country, and it is navigable for small vessels, six miles from its mouth. MolccUunkaiuuuIi. Liakc, Me. This is one of a number of large lakes extending northwest from Umbagog lake, and which empty through the Umbagog into the An- droscoggin. These lakes lie in the counties of Oxford and Franklin : their borders are but little settled, but those who have visited them report that the soil is exceedingly fertile, and that the beauties of these little inland seas, equal that of the celebrated Winnepisiogee. The Molechunkamunk lies about 80 miles N. by W. from Portland. Molunikus River, A large tributary to the Ma(a- wamkeag from the north. It unites with that river about 8 miles above its mouth. Monaduock Mountain, N. H., Usually called the Grand Mo- nadnock, is situated in the towns of Jaffrey and Dublin, in Cheshire county, about 22 miles E. from Con- necticut river, and 10 N. of the southern boundary of this state. — The direction of the ridge is N. E. and S. W. The mountain is about 5 miles long from N. to S., and 3 miles from E. to \V. Its summit is 3,718 feet above the level of the sea. Tliirty years since, Monadnock was neai-ly covered with evergreen wood of considerable growth. By the repeated ravages of tire, it now presents to the distant beholder, nothing but a bari'en and bald rock. But on ascending, we find plats of earth sufficient to give growth to the blueberry, cranbeny, mountain ash, and a vaiiety of shrubs. Some caves are discovered, which excite curiosity. They appear to have been formed by large tissures, and by extensive strata being thrown from their primitive state, and form- ing different angles with each other and with perpendicular precipices. The mountain is composed of talc, mica, slate, distinctly stratified.— Garnet, schorl, feldspar and quartz occur in vai-ious pai-ts. On the E. side, plumbago is found in large quantities. Crucibles and pencils have been manufactured from it, but for the latter, it proves not very good. The summit, when seen at a distance of 4 or 5 miles, appears rounded and destitute of those high cliffs and mural precipices belong- ing to granitic mountains. The prospect from the pinnacle is very extensive ; thirty ponds of fresli water, some of which are so large as to contain islands of 8 or 10 acres, may be seen from it, in the immediate vicinity. Near the base of the mountain, in Jaffrey, is the " Monadnock Mineral Spring." Moukton, Vt. Addison co. This town lies 27 miles W. from Montpelier, 16 N. from Middlebury, and 18 S. by E. from Builington. This is a good farming town, and the products of wool, cattle, and of the dairy are considerable. Iron ore is found in abundance, and a bed of porcelain earth. By mixing this earth with NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. common clay, in ilifTerent propor- tions, various kinds of pottery are produced. This earth is very pure, and it is said might he manufactur- ed into the best china ware. The bed is inexhaustible. The black oxide of nianganese is also found here. There is also a curious cav- ern in the town : after descending about Iti feet, you arrive at a room 30 feet long, and 16 wide. From this is a passage leading to a second apartment, which is not quite so large, but more pleasant. Monk- ton is a pleasant town, 3 miles E. from Ferrisburgh, and is frequent- ly visited by the curious. Popula- tion, 1830, i,3Sl. MoumoiitU, Me. Kennebec co. This is a fine township, and beautifully watered by some of the sources of the Cob- bessecontee. It lies 1.5 miles S. W. from Augusta. The village is very pleasant, and is the seat of a flourishing academy. Wheat crop, 1837, 5,2.35 bushels. Population, same year, 1,847. Incorporated, 1792. Slouroe, Me. Waldo CO. This town is watered by Marsh river, a branch of the Pe- nobscot. It lies 59 miles N. E. from Augusta, and 14 N. from Belfast. Population, 1S37, 1,365. Wheat crop, same year, 5,897. Monroe, Mass. Franklin co. This is an elevated township, bounded K. by Deerfield river. It lies 105 miles W. N. W. from Boston, and 23 W. by N. from Greentield. Incorporated, 1822. — Population, 1837, 232. Monroe, Ct. Fairfield co. This town was taken from Huntington in 1823. The soil is good, and well adapted for grazing, but the surface is rough and stony. Agriculture is the prin- cipal business of the inhabitants. There are excellent orchards of va- rious kinds of fruit in the town, a pleasant village on elevated ground, and a classical school. It lies 15 miles W. by N. from New Haven, and 12 E. by S. from Danbury. Population, 1S30, 1,522. A rich variety of mineral sub- stances have been discovered here. Among them, are tungsten, telluri- um, native bismouth, native silver, magnetical and common iron py- rites, copper pyrites, galena, blen- de, tourmaline, &,c. Mousou, Me. Piscataquis co. This town is watered by Piscataquis river and Wilson's stream. Monson compris- es a fine tract of land, and is settled by a worthy class of people. In- corporated, 1822. Population, in 1837, 565. Wheat crop, same year, 2,267 bushels. It lies 83 miles N. by E. from Augusta, and 20 N. W. from Dover. A stage runs between this town and Bangor, three times a week. Distance from Monson to Banuor. CO miles; to Moosehead lake, 15. Monson, Mass. Hampden co. Monson was tak- en from Brimtield in 1760. It lies 73 miles S. W. by W. from Boston, and 13 E. from Springfield. Popu- lation, 1837, 2,179. this is a pleas- ant town of variegated surface, good soil and well watered by Chick- opee liver. It contains a flourish- ing academy. There are 3 cotton mills in Monson, and other manu- factures. The value of cotton goods manufactured in the year ending April 1, 1837, was $67,500. Montague, Mass. Franklin co. This town is on the E. bank of Connecticut river, opposite to Deerfield, and united to that town by a bridge. Turner's Falls, at the northerly part of the town, are more interesting than any in the state, and probably as NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. much so as anj' in New Enoland. The canal for passing these falls, 3 miles in length and 75 feet lockage, with an immense dam across the river, greatly facilitates the naviga- tion on Connecticut river. This place has a great water power, and promises peculiar advantages to the manui'acturing interest. The scene- ry around this place is romantic and beautiful, and to the lovers of anti- quarian lore, full of interesting as- sociations. It lies 80 miles W. by N. from Boston, and 7 S. E. from Greenfield. Incorporated, 1753. Population, in 1837j 1,260. Montgomery, Vt. Franklin co. This town lies in a mountainous country, but it has a valuable tract of land on Trout liv- er, a good mill stream, a branch of the Missisque. It lies 42 miles N. from Moutpelier, and 27 E. N. E. from St. Albans. First settled, in 1793. Population, 1830, 460. The Rev. Joel Clappwasthe first child born in this town, September 14, 17!)3. He preached the first fast-day sermon, the first thanks- giving sermon, and the first moth- er's funeral sermon, which were preached in the town. Montgomery, Mass. Hampden co. This is a moun- tainous township on the N. side of Westfield river, and has a good wa- ter power. It lies 100 miles W. by S. from Boston, and 12 N. W. from Springfield. Incorporated, 1780. Population, 1S37, 497. This is a good town for grazing, and it pro- duces considerable wool and some beef cattle. Montpelier, Vt. The capital of the state and shire town of the county of Washington. It lies in N. lat. 44° 17', and W. Ion. 72° 36'. It is 182 miles W. from Augusta, Me. ; 97 N. N. W. from Concord, N. H. ; 160 N. W. by N. from Boston, Mass. ; 200 N. by W. fioi!i Providence, R. I.; 205 N. from Hartford, Ct. ; 148 N. E. from Albany N. Y. ; and 524 miles from Washington. First set-' tied, in 1786. Population, 1830, 2,985. Montpelier became the seat of government in 1805, and the shire town of the county, in 1811. It is finely watered by Onion river and by several branches of that stream. These streams afford a good water power, on which are manufacturing establishments of va- rious kinds. The surface of the town is very uneven and hilly, but not mountainous. The soil is very good along the streams, and the highlands produce excellent pas- turage. The agricultural products are various and valuajjlc. In 1837 there were between 8,000 and 9,000 sheep in the town. This township was granted Octo- ber 21, 1780, and chartered to Tim- othy Bigelow and others, August 14, 1781, containing 23,040 acres. It was recharfered February 6, 1804. In the spring of 1786, Joel Frizzle erected a log house on the bank of Onion river, in the south- west corner of this township, and moved his family into it from Cana- da. This was the first family in town. Early in the month of May, 1787, Col. Jacob and Gen. Parley Davis, from Worcester county, Mass. began improvements near the place where the village now stands, and erected a log house, into which Col. Davis removed his family the winter following. The village of Montpelier is sur- rounded by hills of considerable el- evation; and although it is too low to command an extensive prospect, is very pleasant, and quite roman- tic in its appearance. It is located very near the centre of the state : it is a great thoroughfare from all directions, and commands a large and valuable interior trade. The buildings are in good style ; some of which are very handsome- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. We take pleasure in presenting to the public a well executed en- graving of the Vermont State House, at Montpelier ; designed bj' A. B. Young, Esq., a native of New England, and executed under his imme- diate superintendence. The engraving represents a southeast front view of the building, which stands on an elevated site, about 325 feet from State street, on which it fronts, and is alike beautiful in design and execution. The yard and grounds pertaining to it are large and spacious, and, in the manner they are laid out, give great importance to the building. Through the whole design, a chaste architectural character is preserved, which, combined with the convenient arrangement of the interior and the stability of its construction, renders this edifice equal in every respect to any in New England, and probably to any in the United Stales. The building is in the form of a cross, showing in front a centre, 72 feet wide, and two wings, each 39 feet, making the whole length 150 feet. The centre, in- cluding the portico, is 100 feet deep ; the wings are 50 feet deep. The six columns of the portico are 6 feet diameter at their base, and 36 feet high, supporting an entablature of classic proportions. The dome rises 36 feet above the ridge, making the whole height from the ground 100 feet. The order of architecture used is the Grecian Doric, and is made to conform to the peculiar arrangement necessary in this building. The walls, columns, cornices, &c., are of dark Bane granite, wrouirht in a superior manner: the dome and roofs are covered with copper. In the interior, the lower story contains an Entrance Hall, rooms for the Secretary of State, Treasurer, Auditor, and numerous Committee rooms. The second or principal story, contains a Vestibule, and stair- ways, a Representatives Hall, 57 by 67 feet, with a Lobby, and Galleries for spectators ; a Senate Chamber, 30 by 44 feet, with Lobby and Gallery ; a Governor's room, 24 by 20 feet, with an ante-room, and a room for his Secretary adjoining ; a Library room, 18 by 36 feet ; rooms for the several officers of the Senate and House of Representatives, and several com- mittee rooms. The cost of this building, including all expenses, was about $132,100 ; of which the inhabitants of Montpelier paid $15,000. At the first session of the Legislature of Vermont, within this building, in October, 1838, the following resolution was unanimously adopted : " Resolved, by the General Assembly of the State of Vermont, that the thanks of this Legislature be presented to Am mi B. Young, Esq., as a testimonial of their approbation of the taste, ability, fidelity and perseverance which he has manifested in the design and execution of the new capitol of this state ; which will abide as a lasting monument of the talents and taste of Mr, Young as an Architect." NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Montville, Mc. Waldo CO. This is a beautiful and flourishing town, watered by some of the head branches of Sheep- scot river, 26 miles E. N. E. from Augusta, and 15 W. from Belfast. Incorporated, 1807. Population, in 1830,1,243; 1837,1,987. Wheat crop, 1837, 8,088 bushels. Montville, Ct. New London co. Montville was taken from New London in 1788. ' The surface is hilly and stony ; the soil a dry, gravellj' loam, strong and fertile. It lies on the W. side of the river Thames, 35 miles S. E. from Hartford, 8 N. from New London, and 7 S. from Norwich. The town has a good water power and contains 3 cotton and 2 woolen factories, and an oil mill. Popula- tion, 1830, 1,961. This, and a large tract of country lying north and east of it, formerly belonged to the Mohegans, a tribe of Indians once celebrated for their warlike prowess and friendship to the English. In Montville is a tract reserved by the state, for the maintenance of a remnant of that tJ-ibe, " on the land of their fathers." The Mohegan reservation consists of about 2,700 acres. It was hold- en by them in common till the year 1790, when it was divided to each family by the legislature of Connecticut. The Mohegans are under the care of guardians, or over- seers, appointed lay the legislature. A part ot the lands are occupied by the Indians themselves, and a part by white tenants, of which there are as many as Mohegans living on the reservation. The rents go into a common fund, from which the Mohegans derive, individually, a small sum annually. In 1774, when a census of the in- habitants of Connecticut was taken, there were in the colony 1,363 In- dians. The number in the township of New London was stated to be 206. Mohegan was tlien included in the limits of that town. At the same time there were in Stonington 237; in Groton 186; in Lyme 104; in Norwich 61, and in Preston 30 : in all, 824. Most of these may be considered as descended fiom those who once owed some kind of alle- giance to Uncas. Di-. Holmes, who \ isited Mohegan in 1803, says that " there were not more than SO per- sons of lliis tribe remaining, and that John Cooper, the richest man in the tiibe, possessing a j-oke of oxen and two cows, was then their religious teacher." Four years af- ter, they were reduced in number to sixty nine, these being for the most part aged persons, widows, and fatheiless children. Within the course of a few years past, an cifort has been made to el- evate and rescue the remnant of this tribe from extinction. A small house for divine worship has been erected, and also a house for a teach- er ; towards erecting this last build- ing the United States government appropriated 500 dollars ; they have also allowed, recently, 400 dollars annually for the support of a teach- er. The school, consisting of up- wards of 20 scholars, at this time is under the care of Mr. Anson Glea- son, who also olficiates as a religious teacher at the IMohegan Chapel. Mr. Glcason commenced his labors among this people in 1832, and it is tirmly believed that his efTorts to promote the welfai-e of this people will be attended with lasting and beneficial effects. Mr. Gleason says, " that he can say for a certain- ty, that the native children are as apt to learn as any children he ever taught, and bid fair for intelligent men and women." He also says, " This tribe had well nigh run out by indulging in the use of ardent spirits ; but of late there is a change for the better, a number of refor- mations having taken place. Most of the youth are opposed to strong drink, and are members of the tern- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. perance reform. The greater part of the working men follow the whale trade, and come home only now and then. . . . VVe are on the increase, and hope in the course of a few years, througli the mercy of God, to lise in point of virtue and respectabili- ty." The Mohegan church is between three and four miles from Norwich city, a few rods east of the public road from Norwich to New London. It is beautifully situated on an em- inence commanding a fair view of Norwich at the north, and New London at the south. It was built in 1831, at an expense of between six and seven hundred dollars, con- tributed for the purpose mostly by benevolent ladies in the cities of Norwich, Hartford and Now Lon- don. This house is designed for the use of the Mohegans, and the white inhabitants who reside on the re- servation. The Slohegan school- house is 40 or 50 rods south of the chapel, at the foot of the hill, near by which is the house for the teach- er. About 100 lods west of the chapel, on the summit of a com- manding eminence, was situated a Mohegan fort, some traces of which remain ; they also had another fort near the river. " Lo ! where a sivaije forlivss frown'ii AmitI you blooil-ceinenii'il ground, A hallowed ilotne, with pnticelul claim, Shall bear the meek Rt'kleenier's mime; Ami forms like those thnt Tuii^eriti? slayeii Latest 'r;eaih Calvary's awOil shaile, And eiiilifst pierc'J ihe sritherHl gloom To watch the Savior's lowly toiiil) — Such eentle forms the Indian's ire Have sooth'd and bade that dome aspire. And now, wh.^rc rose the murderous yell. The timefui hymn to God shall swell- Where vengeance spread a futal snare, Shall breathe the red man's contrite prayer."' Moose Rivers. Moose river, in Maine, is a large tributary to Moosehoail lake. It rises in the western part of Somer- set county, and after receiving the waters of several large ponds in that quarter, it passes through Bras- sua lake, 4 or 5 miles W. of tlie Moosehead. Moose river, in New Hampshire, has its source on the N. side of the White Mountains, and unites with the Androscoggin in Shelburne. — Its source is very near that of Is- rael's river, which passes W. into the Connecticut. Moose river, in Vermont, is a branch of the Passumpsic ; it rises in (iranby and East Haven, and falls into that river at St. Johnsbury. This, in many places, is a rapid stream, about 25 miles in length. Moose Head Lake, Me. This lake, the outlet of which is the source of Kenncl)ec river, lies in the county of Piscataquis. Its form is very irregular. Its length is between 40 and 50 miles, and its breadth, in the widest part, about 12 miles. The tributaries are nu- merous, and How fi-om almost every direction. It contains a number of islands, the largest of which is Su- gar island, containing 5,440 acres, and Deer island, containing 2,000 acres. These islands are fertile, as is the whole country surrounding the lake, except in some jjlaces where the banks are liigh and pre- cipitous. The waters are deep and abound in trout of an extraordinary size. It is remarkable that the territory surrounding this inl.ind sea, possess- ing in rich ainindance all the ne- cessary requirements for the uses and comforts of man, and within three hundred miles of the capital of New England, should be left a wilderness garden, uninhabited and almost unexplored; while thous- ands of New England men are press- ing to distant regions, less health- ful, and less productive y when mar- kets for surplus produce are consid- ered. The only settlement, of any con- seciuence, on the borders of this beautiful lake, is Hasliell's Planta- tion, at the southern boundary- — NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. This place lies 15 miles N. from Monson, from which town stages pass to Bangor, 60 miles. A steam- boat plies up and down the lake, for the purpose of transporting pas- sengers, more particularly those who are engaged in felling timber; and for the purpose of towing the timber down to the Kennebec out- let. The lumber business on this lake is very extensive, and doubtless lu- crative ; but the time is not very distant when this and other sections of Maine, will be as much valued for the fruits of the soil ; and, under the wise system of geological ex- ploration, adopted by the legisla- ture, for the quarries of slate, lime, granite, marble, and even coal, as they are now for their forests of timber. This lake may be divided into two bays. A little above the cen- tre of it, is a narrow pass of rath- er less than a mile across. At this place, on the v/estern side, is Mount Keneo,an elevation of five or six hundred feet projecting over the water. From this height a pictur- esque view of the lake, its islands, and a boundless wilderness, is pre- sented. When the wind blows fresh from the north, the waters of the north bay press through this strait with considerable force, and cause the south bay to rise two or three feet. A dam has been erected at the outlet, for the purpose of raising the lake 3 or 4 feet, so as to let the the water off as occasion may re- quire, to facilitate the passage of lumber on the river. We hope, lor the benefit of our friends down stream, that the dam is of solid ma- terials and well constructed. Mooseliillock Moiimtaiii, N. H., Is a noble and lofty eminence in the S. E. part of Coventry, and ranks among the hi2;hest mountains in New England. The altitude of the north peak above tide water, is 4,636 feet — that of the south peak, is 4,536 feet. Baker's river has its source on its eastern side. Mooselucknaagiintic Lalte, Me. A large sheet of water which empties into the Molechunkamunk, about 2 miles south. Moretown, Vt. Washington co. Mad river, a branch of the Onion, waters this town and gives it good mill seats. The surface is mountainous, and a great part of the soil unfit for culti- vation. First settled, 1790. Pop- ulation, 1S30, 816. It lies 8 miles S. W. from Montpelier. Morgan, Vt. Orleans co. First settled, 1800. It lies 50 miles N. E. from Montpe- lier, and 15 N. N.E. from Irasburgh. Population, 1830, 331. Knowlton's lake, a handsome sheet^ of water, containing a variety of fish, lies in this town. It is 4 miles in length, and 2 in breadth, and empties into Clyde river. Morristo-ivn, Vt. Lamoille co. This town lies 20 miles N. by W. from Montpelier, and 6 S. from Hyde Park. First settled, 1790. Population, 1830, 1,315. The surface of the town is diversified by hills and valleys; the soil is good, particularly on the banks of Lamoille river, which af- fords some water power. Here is a neat village, and considerable business. The people are general- ly farmers, and produce cattle, but- ter, cheese, and a large quantity of wool for market. Mosco-\v, Me. Somerset co. Moscow is water- ed by a pond, and by a beautiful stream, a branch of the Kennebec, and lies on the east side of that river. It is 30 miles N. from Nor- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. riilgewock, and 58 N. from Augusta. This town has a good soil and a pleasant village. It was incorpo- rated in 1816. Population, 1837, 477. Wheat crop, same year, 4,273 bushels. Moultonborough, IV. II., StrafiTord co., is situated on the N. W. shore of Winncpisiogee lake. This interesting town lies 45 miles N. from Concord, and 20 E. from Ply- mouth. This town is broken by mountains and ponds. Red Hill, ly- ing wholly within this town, com- mands notice from the cast, south, and west ; and extends about 3 miles from £. to W., between Red Hill river on the N., Great Squam on the W., Great Squam and Long pond on the S., terminating S. E. by a neck of fine land extending into the Winnepisiogee. Its sum- mit is covered with the uvw ursi and low blueberi-y bush, which in autumn give the hill a reddish hue, from which circumstance its name was probably derived. A number of oval blulis rise on its summit, from each of which the prospect on either hand is extensive and de- lightful. The north blufl' is sup- posed to consist of a body of iron ore. Bog ore is found in a brook descending from this bluff. Ossi- pee mountain extends its base into this town, and is a commanding elevation. On the south part of this mountain, in Moultonborough, is a mineral chalybeate spring, the ■waters strongly impregnated with iron and sulphur, and efficacious in cutaneous eruptions. About a mile north is a spring of pure cold water, 16 feet in diameter, through the centre of which the water, con- taining a small portion of fine white sand, is constantly thrown up to the height of two feet — the spring fur- nishing water sufficient for mills. On the stream nearly a mile below, is a beautiful waterfall of 70 feet perpendicular. Descending on the left of this fall, a cave is found, con- 2:i taining charcoal and other eviden- ces of its having been a hiding l)lace for the Indians. Red Hili river originates in Sandwich, and passes through this town into the Winncpisiogee. Long pond is a beautiful sheet of water, and con- nects with the lake by a channel sixty rods in length. Squam and W' innepisiogee lakes lie partly in Moultonborough. The soil of this town is fruitful, though in some parts rocky. Moultonborough was granted in 17C3, to Col. Jonathan Moulton and others. Settlements commenced in 1764. ]Many Indian implements and rel- ics have been found indicating this to have been once their favorite residence. In 1820, on a small isl- and in the Winnepisiogee, was found a curious gun barrel, much worn by age and rust, divested of its stock, enclosed in the body of a pitch pine tree 16 inches in diameter. Its butt rested on a flat rock, its muzzle el- evated about 30°. In 1819, a small dirk, 1 1-2 feet in length from the point to the end of the hilt, round blade, was found in a new field, one foot under ground, bearing strong marks of antiquity. On the line of Tuftonborough, on the shore of the lake, at the mouth of Mclvin river, a gigantic skeleton was found about 30 years since, bu- ried in a sandy soil, apparently that of a man more than seven feet high — the jaw bones easily passing over the face of a large man. A tumu- lus has been discovered on a piece of newly cleared land, of the length and appearance of a human grave, and handsomely rounded with small stones, not found in this part of the country; which .stones are too closely placed to be separated by stiiking an ordinary blow with a crow-bar, and bear marks of being a composition. The Ossipee tribe of Indians once resided in this vi- cinity, and some years since a tree was standing in Moultonborough, on which was carved in hieroglyph- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ic8 the history of their expeditions. Population, 1830, 1,422. Movint Desert, Me. Hancock co. This town com- prised the whole island of the same name, lying between Frenchman's bay and the waters of Blue Hill bay, and Union river, until 1795, when the north part was set off and called Eden. It lies 110 miles E. from Augusta. Incorporated, 17S'J. Population, 1837, 1,783. This town has an extensive coast, and a number of excellent harbors. The people of Mount Desert own considerable navigation employed in the coasting trade ; and the shore tishery, is a lucrative branch of business. The soil of the town is good, and abundantly able to supply the inhabitants with bread stufls. In 1837, the ocean towns of Mount Desert and Eden, produced 674 bushels of good wheat. We men- tion this fact, to show that there must be something, other than sea air, which causes that valuable grain to blight on the coast of Mas- sachusetts. Mount Holly, Vt. Rutland co.^ A plea-ant town lying 60 miles S. from Montpeiier, and 17 S. E. from Rutland. First settled, 1781. Population, 1830, 1,318. The surface of the town is elevated, and in some parts moun- tainous, but the soil is well adapted for grazing, and produces consider- able quantities of wool, beef, but- ter, and cheese. Mounts HolyoUe & Tom, Mass See JVarihampton. Mount Hope, And Mount Hope Bay. See Bristol. R. I. Motuit Tatjor, Vt. Rutland co. Otter Creek ri«es in this town, by a branch on each side of a mountain. Most of the land is unfit for cultivation, it being so high on the Green mountain range. It lies 66 miles S. by W. from Mont- peiier, and 19 S. by E. from Rut- land. Population, 1830, 210. Mount Vernon, Me. Kennebec co. This town lies W. of Belgrade, E. of Vienna, and 15 miles N. W. from Augusta. In- corporated, 1792. Population, 1837, 1,503. There arc three pleasant villages in the town : the soil is re- markably good, and is watered by a number of beautiful ponds and small streams. Wheat crop, 1837, 5,888 bushels. Mount Vernon, N. H., Hillsborough co., is 3 miles N. W. from Amherst, and 28 S. W. from Concord. There is but one stream of any note, and this was called by the Indians Quohquina- passakessar. magnog. The situa- tion is elevated, and towards the E. and S. E. there is a considerable prospect. There is a flourishing village situated near the highest point of elevation. This town was originally a part of Amherst, from which it was detached in 1803. Dr. Daniel, Adams, who com- menced and conducted the Medical and Agricultural Register, and is author of a popular system of arith- metic, school geography, and a number of useful school books, has his residence in tliis place. Popu- lation, 1830, 763. Mount Vi^asiiington, Mass. Berkshire co. This town lies in the S. W. corner of the state, bor- dering on Ct. and N. Y. It is 135 miles W. by S. from Boston, 22 S. S. W. from Lenox, and 26 S. E. from Hudson, N. Y. Incorporated, 1779. Population, 1837, .337. These people seem to enjoy a more elevated situation than any of their neighbors: one of their hills is 3,150 feet above the sea. They keep 600 sheep, and manufacture NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. about 100,000 bushels of charcoal, annually. A mountain stream af- fords them a water power for an axe factory and forge. These people, likewise, appcai- to he more inde- pendent of the common wants of mankind than other folks; for they have no minister, physician, law- yer, post office, or tavern, yet they are remarkably health}'; and as far as we can judii,'e, intcllii>cnt and kind. Muscou^iis liiver anil Bay, Me. Lincoln co. .^^uscongus river, rises in large ponds in the interior of the county, and on tiie border of Waldo county : it passes through Waldoborough, and separating Bic- men and Friendship, it forms the head waters of Muscongus hay. — This bay has a number of islands and lies between St. George's isl- ands off the town of St. George, on the E., and Pemmaquid point, in Bremen, on the W. Naliaut, Mass. This celebrated watering place, is a part of the beautiful town of Lynu. It is a peninsula, jutting out about 5 nulcs into IMassachu- setts bay, and forms Lynn bay on the south. From Boston to Nahant hotel, on the eastern point of the peninsula, by land, is 14 miles ; from the centre of Lynn, 5 ; and from Salem 9 miles. On the N. E. side of this peninsula is a beach of great length and smoothness. It is so hard that a horse's foot-steps are scarcely visible ; and, from half-tide to low water, it aflbrds a ride of su- perior excellence. Much may be said in praise of Nahant without exaggeration. Its fornuition, situa- tion, and rugged shore, excites the curiosity of all, and many thou- sands annually visit it for health, or pleasure. It is only 10 miles N. E. from Boston, by the steam-boats, continu- ally plying in summer months : at this place are good fishing and fowl- ing, excellent accommodations: the ocean scenery is exceedingly beau- tiful in fair weather, and truly sub- lime in a storm. Nautasket, Mass. See Hull. Nantucket Co. 3Iass. and Towrk. An island in the Atlantic ocean — town and county. It lies E. of Dukes county, and about 30 miles S. of Cape Cod, or Barnstable coun- ty. This island is about 15 miles in length, from east to west, and about 4 miles average breadth. It con- tains 50 square miles. The town, formerly called Shelburne, is in about the centre of the island, on the north side, in lat. 41° 16' 42", W. Ion., 70° 7' 42". It is 100 miles S. E. by S. from Boston, 55 S. E. from New Bedford, 30 S. E. from Falmouth, and 500 from Washing- ton. Population, 1337, 9,048. Nantucket has a good harbor, with 7 1-2 feet of water, at low tide, on the bar at its mouth. This island was formerly well wooded, but for many years it has not had a single tree of natural growth. The soil is light and sandy; it however affords pasturage for about 7,000 sheep, 500 cows, and other cattle. In 1(559, when this county was incorporated, the island contained 3,000 Indians, but now, not one. The whale lishery commenced here in 1690 ; and this place is, perhaps, more celebrated than any other, for the enterprize and success of its people, in that spe- cies of nautical aaventure. Indeed Nantucket is the nmther of that great branch of wealth in America, if not in the world. In the year ending April 1, 1837, Nantucket employed 74 vessels in that fishery, the tonnage of which was 25,875 tons. 1,277,009 gallons of sperm and whale oil was imported, the value of which was .fl, 114,012. The number of hands employed, was 1,897. The capital invested, NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. was $2,520,000 ; this includes the ships and outfits only ; yet many of the manufactories of the place, are appendages of the whale fishery ; altogether, employing a capital of over five millions of dollars. There are manufactures on the island, of vessels, whale boats, bar iron, tin ware, boots, shoes, oil casks, and candle boxes. The whole amount of the manufactures, for that year, including oil and candles, was $'2,- 524,907. Total tonnage of the dis- trict of Nantucket, in 1S37, 29,960 tons. Great attention is paid to educa- tion on this island. The men are noted for their sedateness and daring spirit, and the women for their in- telligence and beauty. JVantucket Shoals is a danger- ous place, where many a sailor has found a watery grave. They lie S. E. from the island, and cover an area of about 50 by 45 miles. Waples, Me. Cumberland co. This town was formed from Otisfield and Raymond, and incorporated in 18-34. It is wa- tered by Sebago and Songo ponds, and Crooked and Muddy rivers. It has good mill privileges, and a pro- ductive soil. Population, 1837,722. Naples lies 63 miles W. S. W. from Augusta, and 27 N. N. W. from Portland. TVarraganset Bay, R. I. This delightful bay lies wholly within the limits of Rhode Island : its entrance extends from Point Ju- dith on the west, to Seaconnet Rocks on the east, and terminates at Bullock's point, about 6 miles below the city of Providence. The length of this bay is about 28 miles : its breadth varies from 3 to 12 miles. It receives the waters of the Taun- ton, Providence, Pawtuxet, and other rivers, and on its borders are Newport, Bristol, Warren, and oth- er large and flourishing towns. It is decked with many islands of great fertility and beauty ; the principal of which are Connanicut, Prudence, Patience, Block and Hope. This bay is near the ocean; is accessible at all seasons ; is well protected by powerful forts, and affords some of the best harbors in the world. The board of naval commissioners have recently reported to Congress that the waters of Narraganset Bay af- ford greater advantages for a naval depot, than any other unoccupied position on the coast of the United States. Narragiiagiis River & Bay, Me. Washington co. The river rises in several ponds in Beddington, and passing in a southeastern direction, falls into a bay of the same name, between Harrington and Steuben. The bay contains a number of isl- ands, between which is a good pas- sage into Pleasant bay, on the east side. Naslnatvii Island, Mass., And Nashawen-jva. See Eliz- abeth Islands. Nashua River, A beautiful stream on the S.part oi Hillsborough co. N.H. has its source in Worcester county, Massachu- setts. It is formed of two branches called the north and south branches. The north branch is formed of two streams, one from Ashburnham, the other from Wachuset ponds. The south brancli is composed of Stil! river, issuing from the E. side of Wachuset mountain, and a small stream from Quinepoxet pond in Holden. These branches are uni- ted in Lancaster, from which the main river proceeds in a N. E. course to Harvard, Shirley, Groton, and Pepperell in Massachusetts ; and from thence into New Hamp- shire through HolHs, and nearly the centre of the town of Nashua, where it falls into the JMerrimack river. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Nashua, N. II. Hillsborough co. This town originally embraced a laroe extent of territory, and was called Dun- stable until 1S36. It lies 34 miles S. by E. from Concoi-d, 12 S. E. from Amherst, and 12 N. W. from Lowell. The population of Dunsta- ble, in 1S30, was 2,414. Population of Nashua, in 1836, 5,065; 1S37, 5,G13; 1838, 5,691. In the N. E. part of the town, on Nashua river, is the flourishing Village of .Yashva, the centre of a considerable trade, and the seat of important manufactures. This village contains 8 besiutiful church- es, a large number of elegant dwell- ing-houses, 50 stores, and 10 tav- erns. The JS^nshtia Manufacturing Company was incor])orated in 1823. Ithas thruc cotton mills, 155 feet in lengtli, 45 in breadth and six stories in height. They contain 22,000 spin- dles, 710 looms, and manufacture 9,390,000 yai'ds of cloth per annum. Their canal is 3 miles long, 60 feet wide, and 8 feet deep. Head and fall, 33 feet. Capital, $750,000. The Jackson Maniifacttiring Company was incorporated in 1824. Capital, .*:600.000. They have two cotton mills, 155 feet long, 47 wide, and 4 stories high. These mills contain 11,500 spiiuHcs, and 383 looms. They manufacture 5,634,- 000, yards of cloth annually. Their canal is half a mile in length, and serves for ti'ansportation on the river. Head and fall, 20 feet. The volume of water aflbrded by the Nashua river, at the (/ryesf sea- son of the year, is ISO cubic feet per second. The number of operatives in all the mills at Nashua is 1,448: — fe- males, 1,283; males, 160. The number of pounds of cotton used is 14,500 per day, or 4,538,500 lbs. per annum. There are other valuable manu- 23* faclures on Nashua river and the waters of Salmon brook. The Nashua and Lo\tell rail- road was opened for travel on the 8th of October, 1333. The soil of Nasliua has consider- able variety. It is ea>y of culti- vation, and is generally productive. The east part of the town, lying on the rivcM-, presents a very level sur- face. The west parts are divided into hills and valleys, but the whole township may be considered far from being hilly or mountainous. It is watered by the Nashua river, a fertilizing stream, which rises in the state of Massachusetts, and Salmon brook, a small stream which originates from several ponds in Gi-oton. Both of these empty into Merrimack river, the former at Nashua village, the latter about one and a half mile below. This was for a long time a fron- tier town, and the first settlers were many times annoj^ed by the Indians, in the successive wars in which this country was engaged with them. In the war with the famous Narraganset sachem, this town was much exposed, and some of the inhabitants fled to the older set- tlements. In Lovewell's war, the company in this town under the brave Capt. John Lovewell, acquir- ed an imperishable name. Their successes at first, and misfortunes afterwards, have been often repeat- ed and are generally known. Dunstable belonged to Massa- chusetts till the divisional line be- tween the two provinces of Massa- cliusetts and New Hampshire was settled, in 1741. It was incorpora- ted by New Hampshire, April 1, 1746, and the name was altered to Nashua in December, 1836. Natcliaiig River, Ct. This is the largest branch of the Shetucket. It rises in Union and Woodstock, and joins the Shetucket near the line of Chaplin and Mans- field. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Natick, Mass. Middlesex CO. Natick is a pleas- ant town, of good soil : it is watered by Charles river, and contains sev- eral delightful ponds, well stored with fish. This was a favorite re- sort of the Indians. There are some moderate elevations in the town : the Indians used to call it " the place of hills." Under the advice and direction of the apostle Elliot, the first In- dian church in New England was formed here in 1660, and comprised 40 communicants. The manufactures of the town consist principally of shoes. Dur- ing the year ending April 1, 1S37, 250,650 pairs were made, valued at $213,053 : employing 452 hands. This town was incorporated in 1781. Population, 1830,890; 1837,1,221. It lies 16 miles W. S. W. from Bos- ton, and 12 S. from Concord. STaugatuck River, Ct. This important mill stream is about 50 miles in length. It rises in the north part of Litchfield coun- ty, and after traversing a S. course nearly the whole length of that county, it crosses the west part of New Haven county, and falls into the Housatonick at Derby. Neal's Brook and Poud, Vt. Neal's brook, or branch, rises in Lunenburgh and the border of Guildhall, and running south falls into a pond of the same name. It continues its course south and meets the Connecticut. This is a short stream, but valuable on account of its water power. JVeal's pond, a mile in length, and a half mile in width, is a handsome sheet of water, and con- tains a variety of fish. STeedliam, Mass. Norfolk CO. This town is nearly surrounded by the waters of Charles river. It contains numerous valua- ble mill seats. There are in the town 6 paper mills, a cotton facto- ry, and manufactures of shoes, hats, and window blind hinges : — annual value, about $150,000. In- corporated, 1711. Population, 1837, 1,492. Ncedham lies 4 miles N. W. from Dedham, and 12 W. S. W. from Boston, by the Boston and Wor- cester rail-road. Neddock, Cape, Me. A rocky, barren bluff, inhabited by a few fishermen, about 3 miles N. from York harbor. JVelson, N. II., Cheshire co., is situated on the height of land between Connecti- cut and Merrimack rivers. The surface is hilly, but good for graz- ing. In the S. part, a branch of the Ashuelot river rises ; and from Long pond in this town, and Han- cock, issues a branch of Contoocook river. The best mill privileges are furnished by streams issuing from ponds in this town, of which there are four, containing a surface of 1,800 acres. There is a cotton and other manufactories. The inhabit- ants are principally farmers of in- dustrious habits. It was chartered Feb. 22, 1774, by the name of Packersjield. In June, 1814, the name was altered to Nelson. The first settlements commenced inl767. Nelson lies 40 miles S. W. from Concord, and 8 N. E. from Keene. Population, 1830, 875. IVeponset River, Mass. Norfolk CO. The sources of this river are in Canton, Stoughton, and Sharon. It receives a tributary from Charles river, Mother brook, so called, and meets the tide of Bos- ton harbor at Milton Mills, 4 miles from Dorchester bay. This is a noble mill stream : on its navigable watei's is the depository of the Quin- cy granite rail-road company, and NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. at its mouth is Commercial Point, in Dorchester, a beautiful place, with an excellent harbor. Netvaggcn, Cape, Me. This cape is a part of tlic town of Roothbay. It extends about 5 miles into the sea, and forms the eastern boundary of Sheepscot's bay. Bfe«'arli, Vt. Caledonia co. The Passumpsic river is formed in this town by a collection of streams issuing- prin- cipally from ponds. The town is not mountainous, but the soil is cold and generally unproductive. It lies 44 miles N. E. from INIontpc- lier, and 19 N. W. from Guildhall. First settled, 1800. Population, in 1830, 257. "Sew Asliford, Mass. Berkshire co. This is a moun- tainous township, but the soil is good for grazing. In 1837, the val- ue of 2,708 fleeces of wool, pro- duced in this town, weighing 7,785 pounds, was worth ,f3,S93. New Ashford produces fine white and variegated marlile, and is the source of Green river. It lies 130 miles W. by N. from Boston, and 18 N. from Lenox. Incorporated, 1801. Population, 1837, 253. New Bedford, Mass. This is a half shire town of Bristol county, and port of entry, pleas- antly situated on the W. side of the Acushnet, a river, or more proper- ly an estuary, connected with Buz- zard's bay. The ground on which the town stands rises rapidly from the river, and affords an interesting view from the opposite side. The upper part of the town is laid out into beautiful streets, which contain many costly and superb dwellings. This harbor, though not easy of access, is capacious and well secur- ed from winds. A wooden bridge, near the centre of the town, con- nects it with the village of Fair- haven. A ferry has also been cb- tablislied, on which it is proposed to run a steam boat. New Bedford was incorporated in 1787, previous to which it con- stituted a part of the town of Dart- mouth. In 1812, the eastern part was set otr as a separate township by the name of Fairhaven. The almost exclusive business of the place is the whale fishery, which commenced before the war of the revolution, and has gradual- ly grown to its present importance. The increase, however, within the last 12 years has been more rapid than during any former period. — The number of ships and brigs now employed is 169. Tonnage of the district, in 1837, 85,130 tons. There are 16 oil manufactories, at which a large amount of oil and can- dles is made. A considerable quan- tity of the oil imported is, however, sold in the crude state to other pla- ces. The manufactures of the town consist of leather, boots, shoes, hats, iron castings, axes, chairs, tin and cabinet wares, vessels, salt, cord- age, soap, Prussian blue, paper hangings, carriages, looking-glass frames, and carpenter's tools: the total value, for the year ending April 1, 1837, including oil and can- dles, amounted to $690,800. There were imported, during that year, 2,472,735 gallons of oil, and 305,170 pounds of whale bone, the value of which was $1,750,832. The capital invested in the whale fish- ery was |!4,210,000. The num- ber of hands employed was 4,000. Few places in Massachusetts have increased in population more rapidly than this. By the census of 1790, the population of the village was about 700. In 1830, the township contained 7,592 ; in 1833, 9,200, and in 18.37, 14,.304. Within a few years, the inhabitants of this town have manifested a com- mendable liberality in providing the NE^y ENGLAND GAZETTEER. means of education. There is a flourishing academy in the town, and large sums are annually appropria- ted for the maintenance of public and private schools. A rail-road will soon be construct- ed from this place, to meet the Bos- ton and Providence, at Seekonk, by the way of Fall River; or to meet the Taunton rail-road at Taun- ton. By eitlier of those routes, a trip to Bo3ton or New York, would be very pleasant. A large and wealthy town, highly flourishing in its commerce and manufactures like this, with the neighboring isl- ands of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard, seem to require it. New Bedford lies .52 miles S. from Boston, 52 N. W. from Nan- tucket, 14 E. by S. from Fall Riven, 20 S. S. E. from Taunton, and 21-1 N. E. by E. from New York. Ne^v ISostoii, N. II., Hillsborough co., is 9 miles N. N. W. from Amherst, and 22 S. by W. from Concord. It is water- ed by several streams, the largest of which is the S. branch of Pi^icat- at[uog I'iver, having its source in Pleasant pond, in Francestown. — This town consists of; fertile hills, productive vales, and some valuable meadows. The soil is favorable for all the various productions common to this section of the state, and there are many excellent farms, under good cultivation. In the S. part of New Boston, there is a considerable elevation, called Jo English hill, on one side of which it is nearly per- pendicular. Its height is 572 feet. Beard's pond, and Jo English pond, are the only ponds of note. New Boston was granted, 1736, to inhab- itants of Boston. It was incorpora- ted, 1763. The first settlement commenced about the year 1733. The first minister was Rev. Solo- mon Moor, from Ireland, who re- ceived his education at Glasgow. In Feb. 1767, he arrived at New Boston, and was ordained Sept. 6, 1763 ; died May 28, 1S03, aged 67. Population, 1830, 1,630. IVe^v Braiiitree, Mass. Worcester co. Ware river and other streams water this town, an One of the shire towns of New London county. The first English settlement in New London com- menced in 1646. It is situated on the west bank of the river Thames. In its territorial limits it is much the smallest of any town in the state, being about 4 miles in lengUi from north to south, and averages about 3-4 of a mile in breadth. — NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. The citj' of New London is situated 3 miles IVoin Long Ishind Sound, and is a i)ort of entry. It is 12 miles southeast from Hartford, 13 soutli fiom Norwich, and 53 east from New Haven. Population, in 1S30, 4,356. Lon. 72° 9' W., lat. 41° 0' 25" N. The city is princi- pally huilt on a declivity, which descends to the east and south. On the summit of the hi<;h ground, hack of the most populous part of the cit}', the observer has a fine prospect of the surroundino; coun- try. The city is irregularly laid out, owing to the nature of the ground on which it is huilt, being much incumbered with granite rocks. — The houses ar-e not so handsome in their outward appearance, as might be reasonably expected, considering the wealth of (he inhabitants. In the course of a few years past, how- ever, a spirit of improvement in this respect has taken place, and many buildings have been erected which are elegant in their appearance. Some of the streets have IJeen strait- ened and leveled, by blasting the granite rocks with which they were disfigured. These rocks aftcii-d an excellent material for the construc- tion of buildings, and it is believed that no city in this country has the advantages of New London, in this particular, where the materials for electing houses can be found in their streets. The harbor is one of the best in the United States, being large, safe, and commodious, hav- ing five fathoms of water. It is 3 miles long, and rarely obst;-ucted with ice. During the extreuie cold in January. 1835, while tlic navi- gation of the harbor of New York was closed by the ice, the harboi- of New London remained open and unobstructed. From the excellent maritime lo- cation of New London, the naviga- tion, commercial and fishing busi- ness, has ever been the piiucipal pursuit of the inhabitants. Their line harbor has served in a srreat degree as tlie port of Connecticut river, the impediments in which freciuentiy prevent its being naviga- ble for large vessels fully laden. The whale fisherj' and sealing business is an important branch of commerce. About a million of dollars is devot- ed to its prosecution. In 1834, up- wards of tliiity ships and 900 men and l)oys were employed in this business. The city is defended by two forts, Fort Trumbull and Fort Griswold. Fort Trumbull stands on the New London side of the Thames, about a mile below the city. It is situa- ted on the rocky extremity of a pen- insula extending eastward into the river. This fort is a station for United States soldiers. Fort Gris- wold is on the E. side of the Thames, on a commanding eminence oppo- site the city, in the town of Gio- ton. New London has been rendered conspicuous for its sufferings during the revolutionary war, and the the- atre of hostile operations. On the 6th of September, 17S1, a large proportion of tliis town was laid in ashes by Benedict Arnold. The following account of this transaction is taken from the Connecticut Ga- zette, printed at New London, Sept. 7, 1781. " About daybreak on Thursday morning last, 24 sail of the enemy's shipping appeared to the westward of this hai'bor, which by many were supposed to be a plundering party after stock ; alarm guns were imme- diately fired, but the discharge of cannon in the harbor lias become §b frequent of late, that they answer- ed little or no purpose. The defence- less state of the fortifications and the town are obvious to our readers; a few of the inhabitants, who were equipped, advanced towards the place where the enemy were thought likely to make their land- ing, and manuuvrcdon the heights adjacent, until the enemy about 9 o'clock landed in two divisions, and NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. about 800 men each, one of them at Brown's farm, near the light- house, tlie other at Groton Point : the division that landed near the light-house marched up the road, keeping up large flanking parties, who were attacked in different pla- ces on their march by the inhabit- ants, who had spirit and resolution to oppose their pi'ogress. The main body of the enemy proceeded to the town, and set fire to the stores on the beach, and immediate- ly after to the dwelling-houses lying on the Mill Cove. The scattered fire of our little parties, unsupported by our neighbors more distant, gall- ed them so that tliey soon began to retire, setting lire promiscuously on their way. The fire from tlie stores communicated to the shipping that lay at the wharves, and a number were burnt ; others swung to sin- gle fast, and remained unhurt. " At 4 oclock, they began to quit the town with great precipitation, and were pursued by our brave cit- zens with the spirit and ardor of vet- erans, and driven on board their boats. Five of the enemy were killed, and about twenty wounded ; among the latter is a Hessian cap- tain, who is a prisoner, as arc seven others. We lost four killed and ten or twelve wounded, some mortally. " The most valuable part of the town is reduced to ashes, and all the stores. Fort Trumbull, not be- ing tenable on the land side, was evacuated as the enemy advanced, and the few men in it crossed the river to Fort Griswold, on Groton Hill, which was soon after invested by the division that landed at the point. The fort having in it only about 120 men, chiefly militia hast- ily collected, they defended it with the greatest resolution and bravery, and once repulsed the enemy : but the fort being out of repair, could not be defended by such a handful of men, though brave and deter- mined, against so superior a num- ber; and after having a number of their party killed and wounded, they found that further resistance would be in vain, and resigned the fort." See Groton, Ct. The following is the inscription on Bishop Seabury's monument : Here lyeth the body of Samufl Seabury, D. D. Bishop of Connecti- cut and Rhode Island, who departed from this transitory scene, February 25th, Anno Domini, 17'JIJ, in the 68tli year of his age, and the ISth of his Episcopal consecration. Ingenious without pride, learned without pedantry, good without sever- ity, he was duly qualified to discharge tlie duties of the Christian and the Bishop. In the pulpit he enforced Re- ligion ; in his conduct he exemplified it. The poor he assisted with his char- ity ; the ignorant he blessed with his instruction. The friend of men, he ever designed their good ; the enemy of vice, he ever opposed it. Chris- tian ! dost thou aspire to liappiness ? Seabury has sliown the way that leads to it. "An epitaph on Captaine Richard Lord, deceased May 17, 1662. — ^tatis SV8S 51. .... Bright starre of ovr chivallrie lies here To the state a covnsillovr fvll deare And to ye trvth a friend of svveete content To Hartford towne a silver ornament Who can deny to poore he was releife And in composing paroxyies he was cheife To marchantes as a patterne he might stand Adventring dangers new by sea and land." Ne«' Market, ST. H. Rockingham CO. It lies 36 miles S. E. from Concord, and 12 W. by S. from Portsmouth. Population, 18.30, 2,013. Piscassick i-iver passes through tliis town into Durham. The Lam- prey river washes its N. E. hounti- ary, as does the Swamscot the S. E. The soil is good, and agricul- tural pursuits are here crowMU'd with much success. There are NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. several pleasant and tliiiving villa- ges, in which are large and valua- ble manufactures. New Market was orip:inally a part of Esetcr, and was detached and incorporated, 1727. Mrs. Fanny Sinitc, who died in this town Septenibor, 1819, was re- spected not only for her excellent v Milford, Ct. Litchfield CO. This township is Lilly and broken, several mountain- ous ridges extending through it. The soil is much diversified, and where susceptible of cultivation, it is generally good ; but on the whole more distinguished for gi-ain than grass. There are, however, large quantities of excellent meadow ground, but the pasturage is, on the whole, not abundant. It is essen- tially a faiming town. For some time after the white people come here, an Indian chief, or sachem, 25 named JVcrauhamaiig, had a pal- ace standing near the Great falls, where he resided. On the inner walls of this palace, (which were of bark with the smooth side in- wards,) were pictured every known species of beast, bird, fish and in- sect, from the largest to the small- est. This was said to have been done by artists whom a friendly prince at a great distance sent to him for that purpose, as Hiram did to Solomon. The town of New Milford was purchased of the Col- ony of Connecticut by acompanyof individuals chiefly belonging to Mil- ford, and was first settled in 1707. The first bridge that was ever built over the Housatonick river, from the sea to its source was built in this town in 1737. The village of New Milford is very handsome ; the streets are wide and well shaded. It lies 36 miles N. W. from New Haven, and IS S. W. from Litch- field. Population, 1830,3,979. The territory of this town is larger than any other in the state : it is 13 by 6 1-2 miles. The town is well water- ed, and has some manufactures. There are large quantities of gran- ite ar.d marble, and the town pro- duces large quantities of grain and wool for market. IVe-\vport, Mc. Penobscot co. This is a fine farm- ing town, and watered by a large and beautiful pond which empties into Sebasticook river. It lies 56 miles N. E. from Augusta and 24 W. from Bangor. Population, 1837, 1,088. ^^'heat crop same year, 5,173 bushels. This town contains a pleas- ant village and some mills. Ne'ivport, N. H. Shire town, Sullivan county. Its centi-al situation and its water pow- er, together with the enterprising spirit of its inhabitants, has render- ed Newport a place of considerable business. It is 40 miles W.by N.from Concord, about 35 N. from Keeae, NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. and 14 E. S. E. from Windsor, Vt. Near the centre of the town, and the confluence of the E. and S. branches of Sugar river and the Croydon turnpike, is a handsome village. In general the soil is rich and productive. Sugar river flows through this town, and its three branches unite near the village, whence it passes tlirougli Claremont into the Connecticut. On the east- ern branch are situated, principally near the village, large and valuable manufacturing establishments. — There are other mills in different parts of the town. There are a few eminences, designated as Bald, Coitand East mountains, and Blue- berry hill. Newport was granted by charter in 1761. The lirst ef- fort towards a settlement was made in the fall of 17G3. The first set- tlers were principally from Kill- ingworth, Ct. This town is noted for its good schools and its various charitable societies. Population, 1S30, 1,913. BJewyort, Vt. Orleans co. This town is sepa- rated from Derby by IVIempbrema- gog lake, and is watered by a branch of Missisque river. It lies 48 miles N. by E. from Montpelier, and 10 N. from Irasburgh. Population, 1830, 284. Xewport County, R. I. jSTewport is the chief town. This county comprises seven towns and a number of islands; but the most interesting section of it is the isl- and of Rhode Island, from which the state derives its name. This island is about 13 miles in length, and has a mean breadth of two miles and a half. The surface presents an interesting variety of moderate eminences and declivities, which render the scene- ry very pleasing. Valuable mine- rals are found on the island, and fossil coal, difficult of ignition, is found in large quantities. The soil of the island is very rich, and under the management of skilful farmers is made to produce in great abundance all the varieties of grains, grasses, vegetables, fi-uits and flow- ers common to its latitude. It is remarkable that not only this island, but the county generally, should be so fertile. The poorest lands in New England are gener- ally on the sea board ; but as it re- gards this county, few sections of the inteiior present a better soil. From the earliest settlement of the country, this county has been engaged in commerce and the fish- ery. These interests are now in a flourishing condition ; and manu- facturing establishments are in- creasing, by the aid of steam pow- er. In 1837 there were 37,340 sheep in the county. Newport county is bound N. by Mount Hope bay, and Bristol coun- ty, Mass. ; E. by said county of Bristol ; S. by the Atlantic ocean, and W. by Narraganset bay. Area, 136 square miles. Population, 1820, 15,771 ; 1830, 16, -535. Population to a square mile, 122. Keivport, R. I. Chief town of Newport county, and one of the seats of the state leg- islature. It is in N. latitude 41° 28' 20", and W. longitude 71° 21' 14" : 5 miles from the sea, 30 miles S. by E. from Providence, 70 S. S. W. from Boston, and 153 from New York, by water. The township lies in an irregular and somewhat of a semicircular foi'in, about 6 miles in length and 1 in breadth. In com- rton with the whole island of Rhode Island, on which Newport is situa- ted, the soil is remarkably fertile and under eood cultivation. The surface is undulating, presenting a great variety of delightful scenery. The waters of Narraganset bay at this place are unrivalled for beauty and convenience. The harbor ol Newport is considered one of the best on the coast of America : it NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. has sufficient depth of water for the largest class of vessels, is exceed- ingly easy of access from the ocean, and suHicieiitly capacious to con- tain whole noet><. This liaibor is admirably defended by forts Wol- cott, Green and Adams, and will probably soon become a naval de- pot. Newport was first settled by William Codington and his associates in Id'SS. The growth of the town was so rapid for the lirst hundred years, that in 1738 there were 7 worshipping assemblies, and 100 sail of vessels belonged to the port. Newport suffered severely dur- ing the revolutionary war, and was for a long time in possession of the enemy. After tlie war it revived again, but the more favorable loca- tion of Providence for an interior commerce, deprived it of a large portion of its original business. Newport however retains its former character for foreign com- merce and the fishery. A number of vessels are now engaged in the whaling business, and manufactur- ing establishments have recentlj- been put into operation by steam power, which promise success. — Ship and boat building and the man- ufacture of cordage are carried on extensively. The domestic fishe- ry is to Newport an important re- sourse. There is probably no place in the world where a greater varie- ty of fish, or of a better quality, are found. About sixty different kinds, comprising almost every species of fin and shell fish, fit for the ta- ble, are taken in great abundance around the shores of Narraganset. The tonnage of the district of New- port, in 1837, was 11,498 tons. The compact part of the town is built on a beautiful site, facing the harbor in a southeasterly direction. The main street extends more than a mile in length. The buildings on this and other streets and on Washington square are neatly built, and some of them are very hand- some The marks of age which some of these buildings bear, with the excellent state of preservation in which they appear, give them a grace not found in many of those of more modern construction. Although tliis ancient town has passed through many vicissitudes and changes of fortune, still it con- tinues to advance in the number of its people. Population, in 1820, 7,319; 1830, 8,010. Newport is celebrated for its beauty and the salubrity of its cli- mate. From these circumstances, and from the numerous inviting objects which surround it, it has become a favorite resort for visitors from warmer climates ; and in no place can the summer season be more enjoyed tlian amid the charms of Newport. Oliver Hazzard Perry, the victor on Lake Erie, Sept. 10, 1813, was born at Newport, in 1785. — He died in the West Indies, in 1820. A monument is erected to his mem- ory. IVe-w Portland, Me. Franklin co. This town is finely watered by two branches of Seven Mile brook. This is one of the finest farming towns in the coun- ty. It produced, in 1837, 10,451 bushels of wheat. Population, same year, 1,476. This town has a pleasant village, a number of saw mills and other manufactories. It lies 48 miles N. N. W. from Augus- ta, and 18 N. by E. from Farming- ton. Incorporated, 1808. Ne^vl•y, Me. Oxford CO. A branch of Andros- coggin river waters this town, and affords it good mill privileges. It lies 63 miles W. from Augusta, and 25 N. W. from Paris. Population, 1837, 412. Incorporated, 1805. Ne-iv Salem, Mass. Franklin co. This town is bound- ed N. by Miller's river, and has a good water power. It lies 74 miles NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. \V. N. W. from Boston, and 17 E. S. E. from Greeniield. This is a pleasant town of elevated surface, and good soil for grazing. Popula- tion, 1837, 1,255. The manufac- tures of the town, consist of palm- leaf hats, boots, shoes, leather, straw bonnets, and ploughs. In- corporated, 175-3. 'Sew Sliarou, Me. Franklin, co. This town is water- ed on the northwest side by Sandy river, and is bounded south by Vi- enna. The soil is admirably adapt- ed to agricultural purposes. Popu- lation, 1837, 1,771. Wheat crop, same year, 8,132 bushels. It lies 26 miles N. W. from Augusta. In- corporated, 1794. IVeTV Slioreliain, R. I. Newport co. This town com- prises the island of Block Island. The island lies in the open sea, about 14 miles S. S. W. from Judith Point, and 13 N. E. from IMontauk Point, on Long Island, N. Y. It is about 8 miles in length, and varies from 2 to 4 miles in width. It has several ponds, which cover about a seventh part of the island. The surface of the town is uneven ; in sojne parts elevated. The soil is a sandy, gravelly loam, and quite productive. This island was once famous for its cattle and good dai- ries. The people are mostly fish- ermen : they have no harbor, and peat is their only fuel. Population, 1830, 1,185. Incorporated, 1672. Its Indian name was Manisses. Ne'wtoii, Mass. Middlesex co. A very beauti- ful, agricultural and manufacturing town, the JS'oncoitinn of the In- dians, 7 miles W. by S. from Boston, 12 S. E. from Concord, and 7 N. from Dedham. Charles river wash- es the borders of this town 15 miles, and, by two falls of considerable ex- tent, affords it a great and valuable water power. Nine bridges cross Charles river in this town. The soil is generally very good, and highly cultivated. There are 2 cotton, 1 woolen, and 5 paper mills in the town, and manufactures of nails, rolled iron, candles, vit- riol, barilla, chaises, harnesses, mo- rocco, leather, boots, shoes, ma- chinery, chairs, and cabinet ware ; the value of which, the year end- ing April 1, 1837, amounted to ^815,872. Newton was incorpo- rated in 1691 ; it formerl}' com- prised the town of Cambridge, and is noted as the birth place and resi- dence of many distinguished men. Population, 1830, 2^^,377 ; 1837, 3,037. A Theological Seminary was established in this town, in 1825. See Register. KeAvtotviit, N. II., Rockingham co., lies 40 miles S. E. from Concord, and 27 S. S. W. from Portsmouth. Country pond lies in Newtown and Kingston, and two other small ponds connect by outlets with its waters. The soil produces good crops of grain or grass. Joseph Bartlett first settled in this town, in 1720. Bartlett was taken prisoner by the Indians at Haveihill, in 1708, and remained a captive in Canada about 4 years. Population, 1830, 510. ]Vc%vto-»vii, Ct. Fairfield co. This town was in- coiporated in 1708. It is watered by Patatuck river, the Indian name of the place. It lies 25 miles W. N. W. from New Haven, 10 E. from Danbury, and 22 N. from Fair- field. Population, 1830, 3,100.— The surface of the town is hilly ; many of the eminences are exten- sive and continuous. The soil is principally a gravelly lonm, gener- ally fertile and productive. It is well adapted to the culture of grain, and is also favorable for fruit, there being many valuable orchards in the town. The borough of Newtown is beautifully situated on high >CEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ground ; it commands an extensive prospect, and coulains some hand- some buiidino;s. The tloiirishing village of Sandy Hook is situated about 1 1-2 miles N. E. of the central part of New- town, at the foot of a rocky ''niin- ence or bluff, from the top of which is a tine prospect of the surround- ing country. A fine mill stream (the Patatuck) runs in a northerly course through the village, at the base of the cliff', which rises almost perpendicular to the height of IfiO i'eet. Near a cotton factory, at the northern extremity of the village, some traces of coal have been dis- covered. The village contained, in 1834, 1 cotton, 1 hat, 1 comb and 2 woolen factories. There was also 1 machine shop, and 1 establish- ment for working brass. Neiv Vineyard, Ble. Franklin co. This town is wa- tered by a branch of Seven Rlile brook. The surface of the fov.'n is uneven, but the soil, generally, is productive. It produced, in 1S.37, 7,063 bushels of wheat. Popula- tion, same year, 870. Incorporat- ed, 1802. It lies 40 miles N. W. from Augusta, and 8 N. by E. from Farmington. Nobleborough, Mc. Lincoln co. This town lies on the east side of the upper waters of Damariscotta river. It is a place of considerable trade. Many ships are built here, and a large number of vessels are employed in the coasting trade. The soil of the town is generally good, and consid- erable attention is paid by the in- habitants to agricultural pursuits. It lies 38 miles S. E. from Augusta, and 11 E. from Wiscasset. Popula- tion, 1837, 1,999. Incor., 1788. Ko-Itlans-Liaiid, Slass. Dukes CO. A ledge of rocks, the most southern part of the state. It lies 7 miles S. from Gay Head. Norfolk County, Masg. Chief town, Dedham. This county is bounded N. E. by Boston harbor, N. by SufTolk county, W. by the S. E. corner of Worcester county, S. by the N. E. corner of the state of Rhode Island, and S. S. E. and E. by the counties of Bris- tol and Plymouth. Area, about 400 square miles. Population, in 1820, 36,4.52; in 1830, 41,901 ; in 1837, 50,399. Taken from Suffolk county in 1793. This county has a maritime coast on Boston harbor of about 12 miles, which is indented with many small bays and navigable rivers. Its sur- face is uneven, and in some parts hilly. Its soil is generally strong and rocky. Much of the dark col- ored granite, or sicnite, is found here. A large part of Norfolk county, particularly those towns near Boston, is under a high state of cultivation, and afTords fruits and vegetables in great abundance. — The proximity of tliis county to the capital gives it many facilities ; and tlie towns in this, and in the county of Middlesex, that border on Boston harbor, may be called the Gardens of Boston. It contains 22 towns, and 126 inhabitants to a square mile. The Charles, Nepon- set, and Manatiquot are its chief rivers. In 1837, this county contained 2,0.54 sheep. The value of the manufactures in the county, the year ending April 1, 1837, was .«!6,466,010. The value of the fishery, the same year, was $244,- 927. Norfolk:, Ct. Litchfield co. The settlement of Norfolk began in 1744. It lies 35 miles W. N. W. from Hartford, and 17 N. from Litchfield. Popu- lation, 1830, 1,485. This town is elevated and moun- tainous. The soil is a primitive, gravelly loam, generally cold and stony, but has considerable depth, NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. and affords good grazing. Former- ly large quantities of sugar were made from the maple : more than 20,000 lbs. have been manufactured in a single season ; but since tlie land has been cleared by progres- sive settlements, and in consequence of the destruction of the maple trees by some tornadoes, the busi- ness has greatly declined. The dairy business comprises the prin- cipal interests of the town. A stream, called Blackberry river, runs near the centre of the place, and a little westward of the con- gregational cliurch falls overa ledge of rocks 30 feet in height. This is an excellent site for mills, of which there are several near this spot. There is a handsome village, with an open square or green in front of the church, which is uncommonly neat and beautiful in its appearance. About half a mile north is another village, in which are two woolen and three scythe factories. Bforridge'ivoclt, Me. Chief town of Somerset co. This town is situated on both sides of the Kennebec river, 28 miles N. from Augusta. Incorpoi-ated, 1788. Population, 1S37, 1,955. Its sur- face is diversified with hills of a moderate elevation, the soil various, but generally good and well culti- vated. Wheat'crop, 1837, 10,299 bushels. This town was formerly the site of the celebrated tribe of Norridgewock Indians. Their vil- lage was situated at the foot of Nor- ridgewock falls, in the N. W. part of the town, and the border of Mad- ison. The tribe had a church, the bell of which was dug up a few years since, and placed in the cabi- net at Bowdoin college. The tiibe was destroyed by a party of IGS men, sent out from Massachusetts for that puipose, commanded by Capt. Moulton, on the afternoon of August 23, 1724. Among the kill- ed was the noted Jesuit missiona- ry, Ralle. A monument was erect- ed the 23d of August, 1833, by Bishop Fenwick, to iiis memory. — It is a plain granite pyramidal shaft, standing on a square base of the same material, having the follow- ing inscription : — Sebastianus Rasles natione Gal- luse Societate Jesu missionius, per aliquot annos Illinois et Huronibus primum evangelanus, deinde per 34 annos Abenaquis, fide et chari- tate Christi verus Apostolus, pericu- lus armorum intenitus se pro suis oribus mori paratum soepius testifi- cans, inter arma et cocdes ac PagL Nanarantsouak Norridgewock, et Ecclesiae suae minas, hoc in ipso loco, cecidit tandem optimus pastor, die 23 Augusti, A. D. 1724, ipsi et filius in Christo defunctis Monu- mentum hoc posuit Benidictus Fen- wick, Espiscopus Bostoniensis dedi- cavilque 23 Augusti, A. D. 1833. A. M. D. G. Norridgewock village is situated on the north side of the river, di- rectly in the bend, five miles west of Skovvhegan falls. It is one of the most pleasant and delightful villages, especiallj' in the summer, in the state. The main street is lined with ornamental trees, some of them venerable for age and mag- nitude, extending their long arms quite across the street, forming a beautiful avenue from east to west. On the south side of the river, con- nected by a bridge, is a pleasant and rapidly increasing village. The public buildings consist of a church and court house, on the north side of the river, and on the south, a female academy, and a free church at "Oak Hill," about 5 miles from the village. This section of country is remark- able for its luxuriant growth of the white pine. A few years since, one of these trees was cut for a canoe. Its length was 154 feet and measur- ed 4 1-2 feet in diameter. IVortli Hampton, ]V. H., Rockingham co., formerly con- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. stituting the parish called JVorth Hill, in Hampton, lies on the sea coast 50 miles S. E. by E. from Concord, and 9 S. by W. Ironi Ports- mouth. Little river rises in the low grounds in the north part of the town, and after running- southeast one or two miles, takes an east course, falling into the sea between Little Boar's head, in this town and Great Boar's head, in Hampton. Winnicut river rises near the cen- tre of the town, and passes north- west into Great bay. In 1742, the town was incorporated. Population, 1830, 767. Northampton, Mass. Chief town of Hampshire co. This is a very beautiful town, delightful- ly situated on the west bank of Con- necticut river, and united (o Hadlcy by a bridge. Since the first settle- ments on the Connecticut basin, this town has been an important point of attraction. This was the third town settled on Connecticut river in this state. Its Indian name •was A'onatuck. The soil of the town is alluvial and its products ex- uberant. Both before and since the division of the old county into three, this place has iicen the seat of jus- tice. The buildings are handsome, and the most im]>oi-tant county offi- ces are ^re proof. A fine stream passes through the centre of the town, possessing a good water pow- er, on which are manufactories and mills of various kinds. The manufactures of Northamp- ton consist of woolen and silk goods, boots, shoes, leather, paper, brooms, chairs, iron, tin, and cabinet wares, &c. ; total value the j'ear ending April 1, 1837, about $350,000. The manufacture of sewing silk, rib- bons, &.C., is on a lai'ge scale, and the most flourishing establishment of the kind in this country. In 1837, there were 3750 sheep shear- ed in the town ; the value of the wool was $7,075. This place has considerable river and inland commerce, which will be increased by the Hampshire and Hampden canal, which meets the Connecticut river here and termi- nates at New Haven. This town was incorporated, in 1654 ; population, 1820, 2,854, and in 1S37, 3,576. It is 91 miles W. from Boston, 67 E. from Albany, 39 N. from Hartford, 22 S.from Gi-eenfield, 17N.by W. from Springfield, and 376 from Washington. There are many institutions of a literarj' and religious character in this town, and its schools are of the first order. The country around the town is enchanting, and those who visit Mount Holyoke, 830 feet above the river, on the east side, or Mount Tom, 1,200 feet above the river, on the west side, will find a wonderful vaiiety of landscape scenery, probably unsurpassed in beauty by any in the New Eng- land States. North Berivick, Me. York CO. This town was incor- porated in 1831, and was taken from the east side of Berwick. It com- prises a fine tract of land ; it is well watered and very pleasant. Popu- lation, 18.37, 1,493. It lies 91 miles S. W. from Augusta, and 13 N. W. from York. IN'orthborough, Mass. Worcester CO. This is a pleasant farming town, of good soil, and wa- tered by Assabet river. It was in- corporated in 1766, and lies 32 miles W. from Boston, and 10 N. E. from Worcester. Population, 1830, 994 —1837, 1,224. The manufactures of the town consist of cotton goods, boots, shoes, leather, children's wagons, Stc; an- nual amount about .$75,000. North Branford, Ct. New Haven co. This tow'n was incorporated in 1831, and was taken from Branford. A range of moun- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. tains from the southwest to north- east passes through the central part of the town. The inhabitants are generally substantial farmers, and propertj' is very equally distributed. The face of the township is gene- rally hilly, but the soil is strong and fertile. It lies 9 miles E. from New Haven. Population, 1832, 1,100 About a mile southeast of the Northfordchurch,on Tetoket moun- tain, there is the appearance of hav- ing been, at some remote period, some violent convulsions in nature ; the rocks appear to have been rent asunder, and are thrown about in great disorder. Lead is said to have been found near this spot, a mass of it being discovered by a person who was hunting, at the tijne of the first settlement of the parish : he hung up a pair of buck's horns to designate the spot, but the place could not be found afterwards. JfortJitorirtge, Mass. Worcester co. The Blackstone river and canal pass through this pleasant manufacturing and agri- cultural town. It has some excel- lent intervale land, and the soil of the uplands produces grass, grain, and vegetables in abundance. The river here is beautiful, and produces a great hydraulic power. The manufactures of the town consist of cotton and woolen goods, cotton machinery, boots, shoes, &c. : val- ue, the year ending April 1, 1S37, $231,000. Northbridge lies 35 miles S. W. by W. from Boston, and 13 S. E. from Worcester. Incorporated, 1772. Population. 1S30, 1,053; 1S37, 1,409. North Bridge'watcr, RIass. Plymouth co. This town lies 20 miles S. from Boston, 24 N. W. from Plymouth, and 10 S. S. W. from Weymouth Landing. Population, 1830, 1,953; 1837, 2,701. It is well watered by Salisbury river and other small streams which emp- ty into the Taunton. The surface of the town is uneven, but the soil is of a good quality, particularly for grazing. Incorporated, 1821. The manufactures of the town consist of cotton goods, boots, shoes, hats, chairs, shoe tools, forks, hoes, cabinet and wooden wares, &c. : total amount, the year ending April 1, 1337, ,$-236,700. We regret that this very pleas- ant town was not called Titicut or JVunketest, one of the Indian names of the ancient territory. This town was the first of the three Bridgewaters thathave sprung from Old Bridgewater, named after a celebrated English Duke. We can see no good cause for attaching a cardinal point of the compass to the name of any town, particularly one of foreign derivation, when some beautiful Indian name meets the ear on the bank of almost every stream. Had the noble Duke bequeathed to good old mother Bridgewater and her three handsome daughters, (as he did to the city of Manchester, )the perpetual privilege of obtaining 140 pounds of coal ior four pence, iheve would appear some reason for per- petuating and extending the name. Some just remarks on the names of towns appeared in the Provi- dence Journal, which are worthy of repetition. " Indian Names. The new state of Michigan has passed one of the most sensible laws that was ever enacted. Its object is to pre- serve the noble and harmonious old Indian names, which have been giv- en to every river and lake and for- est and mountain in our country, and which, by a bad taste, have in many instances, been displaced by the hackneyed names of European cities, or of distinguished men. The law provides that no town shall be named after any other place or af- ter any man, without first ob- taining the consent of the Legisla- ture. The consequence is, that NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Michigan is destitute of London, Paris and Amsterdam ; unlike licr sister states, she boasts neither Thebes, Palmyra, Carthage or Troy. No collection of log huts, with half a dozen grocery stores, has been honored with the appellation of Liv- erpool, nor has any embryo city, witii a college or an academy, re- ceived the appropriate name of Athens. She has no Moscow and Alorocco, in the same latitude ; and noEdinburgh and Alexandria within thirty miles of each other. Baby- lon, Sparta and Corinth, though they have been transplanted to other parts of the L'nion, are destined ne- ver to llourish on the soil of Mich- igan. No Franklin or Greene or JetTerson, no Washington, is to be found in her borders. On the con- trary, her rivers and lakes still re- tain the full, rich, swelling names which were bestowed upon theni by the red men of the forests, and her towns bear the names of the sturdy chiefs who once battled or hunted in their streets. Strange, when we have such a noble nomenclature as the Indians have left us, that we should copy from the worn out names of ancient cities, and which awake no feelings but ridicule, by the contrast between the old and the new. Mohawk, Seneca, Massasoit, Ontario, Erie, how infinitely supe- rior to Paris, London, Fishville, Buttertown, Bungtown, &.c. The feeling which piompts us to perpet- uate the names of our revolutionary hei-oes by naming towns after them, is liighly honorable ; but it should not be forgotten that frequent rep- etition (especially in cases where the town is utterly unworthy of its namesake) renders the name vulgar and ridiculous. It seems, that not content with driving the Indians from the soil, we are anxious to ob- literate every trace of their exist- ence. We are glad to see a better taste beginning to prevail upon this sub- ject, and we hope that the example of Michigan will be followed, if not by legal enactments, at least by the force of public opinion." Kortli Brooklield, Mass. Worcester co. This town is on elevated ground: it is of good soil, well cultivated, well watered and very pleasant. It has a fine fish pond, and lies 68 miles W. from Boston, and IS W.from Worcester: taken from Brookfield in 1802. Population, 1S30, 1,241 ; 1837, 1,509. The agricultural products sent to market are very considerable. The manufactures of the town consist of boots and shoes, woolen cloth, leather, &.C., the value of which for the year ending April 1,1837, was Sr»25,224 ; of which $470,316 was for boots and shoes. Kortlifield, Vt. Washington co. This town lies 10 miles S. S. W. from Montpelier, and 3.5 E from Burlington. Popu- lation in 1830, 1,412. First settled, 173.5. The principal stream in this town is Dog river, which runs through it in ?. northerly direction, and affords a great number of valu- able mill privileges. The surface is uneven, but the soil is generally good and easily cultivated. In the centre of the town is a neat, pleas- ant and flourishing village, contain- ing a tiumberof saw mills and other mechanical operations by water. . Korthfieltl, Me. Incorporated 1838. See " Down East." Nortlifield, N. II., Merrimack co., is bounded N. by Winnepisiogee river, and W. by the Merrimack. It is 14 miles N. from Concord, and 10 W. by S. of Gilmanton. The soil here is in some parts good — that of the best quality lies on the two ridges ex- tending through the town. Ches- nut pond lies in the east part of the town, and its waters flow into the NEW ENGLAXD GAZETTEER. Winnepisiogce three miles fiom its junction witli the Pemigewasset. — Sondogardy pond flows into the Merrimacli. Near Webster's falls, the Winnepisiogee falls into the Pemigewasset, and the united streams form the Merrimack river. The principal elevation, called Bean hill, separates the town from Can- terbury. Northfield formerly pos- sessed valuable water privileges on the Winnepisiogee river, but this portion of its territory is embraced by the new town of Franklin. — The first settlement was made here in 1760, by Benjamin Blanchard and others. A methodist church was formed here in 1S06. Incorporated June 19, 1780. Population, 1830, 1,169. Ifortlifield, Mass. Franklin co. This is an interest- ing town, on both sides of Connec- ticut river. It was incorporated in 167.3, and some years after desolated by the Indians. The inhabitants returned again in 16S5, but it was soon after destroyed a second time. In 171.3, it was again rebuilt. Fort Dummer was in the vicinity. This town was purchased of the Indians in 1687, for 200 fathoms of wampum and j£57 value of goods. Its Indian name was Squaivkeas- Most of the land in this town is excellent, and the village very pleasant : 28 miles below Walpole, N. H., 11 N. E. from Greenfield, and 83 N. W. by "W\ from Boston. Nortlifield produ- ces fine cattle, and considerable wool. The manufactures of the town consist of leather, boots, shoes, ploughs, chairs and cabinet ware. Population, 1837, 1,605. Nortli Haven, Ct. New Haven co. North Haven was taken from New Haven in 1786. The town lies on both sides of the Wallingford,or Quinnipiac river, and comprises the valley and a part of the bordering hills. The valley is partly rich intervale land, and more extensively sand ; covered with a thin stratum of loam ; light but warm. Near the northern line of the town it is so light as, in two or three places of small extent, to be blown into drifts. The soil of the liills is good, being a reddish loam. From the vicinity of this town to New Haven, and from its light and warm soil, which is favorable for early vegetation, there are various culinary vegetables, particularly peas, cultivated for the New Ha- ven market. But the most striking feature in the township, is the large and beautiful tract of salt meadows on both sides of ihe Quinnipiac. — These meadows produce large quantities of grass, which is mow- ed and stacked upon the land, from whence, when the ground is frozen sufficiently solid in the winter, it is removed. Upon the salt marsh the hay is salt; but on those meadows which are protected Jrom the salt water by means of dikes, the grass is fresh and of a better quality. — These are called dike marshes or meadows. The making of brick receives considerable attention in this town. Four and a half millions of them are manufactured annually, and principally sold in New Haven. The village is very pleasant, and was, for more than half a century, the residence of Dr. Trumbull, the celebrated historian of Connec- ticut. Ezra Stiles, D. D., president of Yale college, was born in this town, in 1727, and died in 1795. He delighted in preaching the gospel to the poor. Among the members of his church at Newport were seven negroes. These occasionally met in his study, when he instructed them, and falling on their knees to- gether he implored for them and for himself the blessing of that God with whom all distinction except- ing that of Christian excellence is as nothing. In the cause of civil and religious liberty. Dr. Stiles was an enthusiast. He contended, that NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the right of conscience and private judgment was unalienable ; and that no exigencies of the Christian church could render it lawful to erect any body of men into a stand- ing judicatory over the churches. He engaged with zeal in the cause of his countr}'. He thought, that the thirtieth of January, which was observed by the E])iscopalians in commemoration of the uiai'tyrdom of Charles I, " ought to be celebrat- ed as an anniversary thanksgiving, that one nation on earth had so much fortitude and ])ublic justice, as to make a royal tyrant bow to the sove- reignty of the p-»ople." He was catholic in his sentiments, for his heart was open to receive all who loved the Lord Jesus in sinceritj'. He was con-picuous for his benev- olence, as well as for his learning and piety. He was a man of low stature, and of a small, though well proportioned form. His voice was clear and energetic. His counte- nance, especially in conversation, was expressive of benignity and mildness; but if occasion required, it became the index of majesty and authority. NortU Hero, Vt. Chief town. Grand Isle co. This town was granted to Ethan Allen and others in 1779, and the settle- ment commenced in 17.33. The British erected a block house here, at a place called Dutchman's Point, which was garrisoned and not given up till 1796. The soil of the town- ship is of an excellent quality, and produces grain of all kinds in abun- (I'anr-e. The county buildings are well situated, and ihe scenery about the village is very pleasant. It lies 57 miles N. W. from Montpe- lier, and 28 N. N. W. from Burling- ton. Population, 1830, 638. Noi'tU lOn^stou, R. I. Washington co. This is a wealthy township on the west side of Narra- ganset bay, 21 miles S. from Prov- idence, 10 N. W. from Newport, and 8 N. from South Kingston. — The surface of the town is uneven; the soil is a gravelly loam, well adapted for the culture of grain and vegetables, and the productions of the dairy. There are some forests in the town of good ship timber. — It is watered by several small streams which produce a good water power, on which are numerous man- ufacturing establishments. These streams afibrd bass and other fish in abundance. There is considerable navigation owned at North Kings- ton, which is employed in the coast- ing trade and fishery. WicUford village, in this town, is very pleasant and flourishing : it has a good harbor, and is a place of considerable trade. It lies about 2 miles east of the Stonington rail- road. Pop. of the town, 1830, 3,037. Nortliport, Me. Waldo CO. This town is bounded on the east by Penobscot and Bel- fast bays. It is well watered by several ponds and small streams: the soil is good and productive. The navigable advantages of the place are great. Considerable ship build- ing is carried on here, and there is considerable trade in the lumber and coasting business. It lies 46 miles E. from Augusta and 6 S. from Belfast. Population, 1837,1,107. Kortli Providence, R. I. Providence co. This ancient and wealthy town was a part of Provi- dence until 1767. Population, in 1810, 1,758; 1820, 2,420; 1830, 3,503. The surface of this town is une- ven, consisting of moderate eleva- tions and gentle declivities. The rocks are primitive and transition : some limestone is found. The prevailing soil is a gravelly loam, which is interspersed with tracts of sandy loam, and some of calcareous. The forests consist of oak, walnut and some pine ; and NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the agricultural productions, of grass, hay, corn, some rye, pota- toes, vegetables and fruits, many of which are sent to Providence. The waters of the town consist of the Seekonk river, which wash- es its eastern border; the Wanas- quatucket, which forms its western boundary; and the Mashasuck, which intersects the interior of the township. These streams atlbrd numerous sites for hydraulic works, some of which are almost unrival- led. There are some valuable shad and herring fisheries in the Seekonk. This town is distinguished for its manufactures, particularly those of cotton, which form an important interest. The extent of this busi- ness, having concentrated a large capital, and an immense aggregate of industry, has, within the last fif- ty years, given rise to a large and flourishing village. The village of Pawtucketis situated in the nortli- east section of the town, four miles northeast from Providence, on the border of the Seekonk river ; its site being principally the declivity of a hill, and it is highly romantic and picturesque. The river here affords numerous natural sites for manu- facturing establishments, mills and hydraulic works of almost every description, which are scarcely ri- valled, and which are occupied to a great extent. The rapid march of manufacturing and mechanical in- dustry, which the short annals of this place disclose, has few exam- ples in our country, and has pi'O- duced one of the most considerable and flourishing manufacturing vil- lages in the United States. The river here forms the boundary line between Massachusetts and Rhode Island, and the village is built upon both sides of it; being partly in each state. That part of the village which is in this state is principally built on four streets; and compris- es a large number of handsome buildings. Besides the cotton business, there are in the town furnaces for cast- ing, slitting mills, anchor shops, cut nail factoiies, screw manufac- toiies, &.C. &c. See Pawtucket, Alass. North Stoniiigton, Ct. New London co. This town was taken from Stoniugton in 180S. It is watered by the Pawcatuck and its branches, which atlbrd good mill sites. The surface is uneven, hilly and abounding in granitic rocks. The soil is a gravelly loam, and generally productive of good pas- turage. Agriculture is the princi- pal employment of the inhabit- ants. Milltoivn is a pretty village with some trade : it lies 50 miles S. E. from Hartford, 13 N. E. from New London, and 7 N. by E. from Ston- iugton Borough. Population of the town in 1830, 2,840. Nortliiimljerland, N. H., In Coos county, on Connecticut river, is loOmiles N. from Concord, and 7 N. E. from Lancaster. The soil along the Connecticut is very productive, perfectly free from stone and gravel, and originally covered with a growth of butternut. A portion of the upland is also good, and covered with pine, spruce, fir, ash, maple, &c. Capo Horn, an abrupt mountain of 1,000 feet in heinht, lies near the centre of the town. Its north base is separated from the Connecticut by a narrow plain, and the upper Amonoosuck passes near its east base, as it falls into the Connecticut. Here the meadows are extensive, and are an- nually covered by the spring floods, presenting the appearance of an inland sea. At the falls in the Con- necticut, below the mouth of the Amonoosuck, a handsome bridge connects Northumberland with Guildhall, in Vermont. A dam is also thrown across the river at this place, at both ends of which are NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. pleasant villages and mills of vaii- ous kinds arc erected. Northum- berland was incorporated in 1779. First settled, 17G7. Population, 18.30, 352. Near the river a small fort was erected dui-ing the revolutionary war, and placed in the command of Capt. Jeremiah Eames, afterwards well known for his usefulness, wit and pleasantry. Noitliwoocl, N. II. Rockingham co. There are a num- ber of ponds in tiiis town, and ex- cellent fishing. Suncook pond, 750 rods long, 100 wide; Jenness' pond, 300 rods long, 150 wide ; Long pond, ahout 300 rods long. 50 wide ; Harvey's pond, 200 rods long, from 40 to SO wide ; a part of Great Bow pond is also in this town, and a part of North i-iver pond ; Pleasant pond, and Litiie Eow pond. The north branch of Lamprey river has its rise in this town near Saddleback mountain, a high lidge between this town and Deei-field. On the E. side of this ridge are found crystals and crystalline spars of various col- ors and sizes. This town has an elevated site, and commands a distant and varied pi-o-^pect. The waters flowing from the farm of the late Jonathan Clarke, Esq., one of the first settlers, fall into three different rivers, the Suncook, Lamprey and Isingla'^s. The soil of this (own is generally moist, and well suited to grazing. Northwood U'as original- ly a part of Nottingham, and was settled in 1763. Northwood is 20 miles E. from Concord, 20 N. \V. from Exeter, and about the same distance \V. from Dover. Popula- tion, 1><30, 1,342. KortU Tarinoiitli, Me. Cumberland co. Thisi-s a pleasant town on Casco bay, 10 miles N. fiom Poitland, and 42 S. E. from Augus- ta. Population, 1S37, 2,782. The town was first settled in IfilO. In 1687 it was attacked by the Indians, 20 and deserted by the whites; and was not re-settled by them until 1725. It was incorporated in 1713. About 4000 tons of navigation is owned here, employed in the trans- l)ortalion of lunjlier and the fishery. There is a fine sti-eam of water in the town, on Aviiich are a paper and saw mills, and other manufactories. The academy in North ^'armouth is well founded and is in a floui-ish- ing condition. See licgialer. IVoi'toii, 3Iass. Bristol CO. Norton was taken from Taunton in 177L It lies 30 miles S. from Boston, 17 N. E. from Providence, and S N. AN', from Taunton. Population, 1837, 1,530. It is well watered byRumford, Co- ca.-iset and Canoe rivers, which empty into the Taunton. The manu- factures of the town consist of sheet eo|)per and coppei- bolts, cotton goods, boots, shoes, leather, iron eastings, ploughs, shuttles, straw bonnets and baskets: — total value, the year ending April 1, 1837, .'^397,7(53. V,'innicunnit pond, in this town, was a great resort for the Indians, some of whom resided in natural eaves, on its shores, and lived on fish and clams. Nor^alk, Ct. Fairfield co. This pleasant town lies on Long Island Sound, 32 mile« W. S. \V. from New Haven, 22 S. fi-orn Danbury, and 18 N. E. from New York." Population, 1830, 3,792. Norwalk originally included part of the i)r(^sent towns ol New Cana- an and Wilton, and part of West- port. In the ancient leeord. the bounds are stated to be ■' from Nor- walk river to Sauhatuck river, from sea, Indian one day walk into the country." For this tract the fol- lowing articles were given, viz ; " S fathom wampum, 6 coats, 10 hatch- ets, 10 hoes, 10 knives, 10 scissors, 10 jewsliarp-;. 10 fathom tobacco, 3 NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. kettles, 3 hands-about, and 10 look- ing glasses." The following arti- cles were given to the Indians for the tract " from Norwalk river to Five mile river, from sea, Indian one day in country," viz. " 10 fathom wampum, 3 hatchets, 3 hoes when ships come, 6 glasses, 12 to- bacco pipes, 3 knives, 10 diillers, 10 needles." The name of Nor- walk is derived fi-om the above bar- gain, viz ; the northern bounds of the lands purchased were to extend from the sea one day's ''north walk" into the country. The soil in this town is excel- lent. The surface is uneven, be- ing pleasantly diversiiied with hills and valleys. On the border of the Sound the hills are generally mod- erate, and in the interior more ele- vated. " The valley which lies along Norwalk river, and in which the town is built, is beautiful. Few richer pro-pects of the same extent can be found than that which is presented from the neighboring em- inences of this ground : the town built in its bosom, with its cheerful spires ; the river llowing through the middle ; the farms on the bor- dering hills; tiie rich plain that skirts the Sound, and'a train of is- lands fronting the mouth of the riv- er, and extending eastward live or six miles ; together with an unlim- ited view of the Sound, and the Long Island shore." Norwalk contains two considera- ble and flourishing villages, Nor- walk Borough, and the village of Old Well. Norwalk Borough, (con- stituted as such in 1836,) is a vil- lage of upwards of 130 handsome buildings, and an extensive pottery. Norwalk is a place of considerable activity and business, being a com- mercial depot and market for the northern part of the county ; a con- siderable proportion of the staple products being brought here for sale, or to be freighted for New York. The village is built on both sides of a small river or creek, which is much contracted in width at the bridge which connects the two parts of the village, and the buildings on each side of the stream are so near each other, that the passage of the river from the north is not readily perceived at a short distance. Ves- sels drawing six feet of water can get up to tiie bridge in the most compact part of the village. The flourishing village of Old Well is situated about 1 1-2 miles south of the central part of Nor- walk Borough, on the west side of the creek. There are at present in this vil- lage six or seven hat factories, three potteries, and a carriage making establishment. This is the princi- pal landing place for steam-boats for Norwalk and the vicinity, there be- ing a daily line from and to New York. A boat every other day leaves Norwalk bridge for New York. There is a cotton factory and a factory for manufacturing carpets in the town. This establishment, called the " Patent Carpet Compa- ny," was commenced in 1834. — Their carpeting, of which they manufactui-e at this time about 200 yards daily, is made without spin- ning or weaving, being made of felting, the material of which hats are composed. This town was burnt by the Brit- isli, under Tryon, on the 17th July, 1779. Eighty dwelling houses, 2 churches, 87 barns, 17 shops, 4 mills, and 5 vessels were destroyed. Morivay, Me. Oxford CO. This is a fine town- ship, well watered by several streams and ponds. One of the ponds is large, — very handsome, and discharges its waters into Little Androscoggin river. Norway lies 47 miles \V. by S. from Augusta, and is bounded on the E. by Paris. Incorporated, 1797. Population, NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. 1S37, 1,T91. V.'heat crop, same year, 7,272 bushels. Nor%vicIi, Vt. Windsor co. This town lic« on the west side of Connecticut river, and is connected with Hanover, N. H. by a bridge. The surface of the town is uneven, but the soil is good for grain, pasturage and fruit. Oniponiponoosuck river and other streams water the town and aiToi-il it good mill seats. Fiist settled, 1763. Population, 1S30, 2,31*5.— It lies 40 miles S. S. E. from Mont- pelier and 19 N. from Windsor. J\~oncich village is pleasantly situated on a plain, near Connecti- cut river, and contains a university and a number of handsome build- ings. See Register. Kor-\vich, Mass. Hampshire co. This mountain- ous town is watered by Westlicld river. The soil in many parts is good for grazing, and many sheep are kept here. There is a cotton mill in the town, and manufactures of leather, boots, shoes, axes, and spirits. It lies 108 miles W. from Boston, and 12 W. by S. from Northampton. Incorporated, 1773. Population, 1837, 714. Nonvlcb, Ct. One of the chief towns of New London county. Norwich city is situated at the head of navigation of Thames river, at the point of land formed by the junction of the Shetucket and Yantic rivers, wliose united waters constitute the Thames. The main part of the city is built on tlie southern declivity of a high and rocky liill : the houses are iiuilt in tiers, rising one above another. The city, as it is approached from the south, presents one of the most beautiful, interesting and romantic prospects in the state. The build- ings, which are mostly painted white, appear in full view for a con- siderable distance down the river ; these contrasted with the deep green foliage covering the rocky and ele- vated banks of the river, give a picturesque variety to the scene, forming on the water a delightful avenue to the city. There are in this city, (or as it was formerly call- ed, Chelsea or Norwich Landing,) a couit house and town hall. A high school for boys, and a female academy, in which the higher brandies of education are taught, have been in operation for a consid- erable time, and are in flourishing circumstances. About a mile east- ward of the landing is situated the flourishing village of Gi-eenville, at the eastern extremity of which a dam has been constructed across the Shetucket, which will, it is calculat- ed furnish sufficient water power to carry 60,000 spindles : four or five large factories, and perhaps 40 oi- .50 dwelling houses, are, or are about to be built. Among the fac- tories there is perhaps the most ex- tensive paper mill in the state, own- ed, by the Chelsea Manufacturing Company. There are also two oth- er paper mills near the falls, which do an extensive business. The first paper manufactured in Connecticut was made in this town by Col. Christopher Leffingwell. There are at, and near the falls, 9 or 10 establishments for manufacturing purposes. Besides these, and those at Greenville, there are some more in other parts of the town. The principal manufactures are those of cotton, paper and woolens. Nor- wich city is 13 miles N. from New London, 38 S. E. from Hartford, 38 S. W. from Providence, and 50 N. E. from New Haven. Population of Norwich, in 1830, was 5,179 ; of which 3,144 were in the city limits. Above the cove, which sets up about a mile from the river, " the bed of the river consists of a solid rock, having a perpendicular height of ten or twelve feet, over which the whole body of water falls in an entire sheet upon a bed of rocks NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. below. Tlie river liere is coinpress- ed into a very narrow channel, the banks consisting of solid rocks, and being bold and elevated. p"or a distance of 15 or 20 rods, the chan- nel or bed of the river has a gradual descent, is crooked and covered with pointed rocks. The I'ock, forming the bed of the river at the bottom of the perpendicular falls, is curiously excavated, some of the cavities being live or six feet deep, from the constant pouring of the sheet of water for a succession of ages." At the bottom of the falls there is the broad basin of the cove, where the enraged and agitated element resumes its usual smooth- ness and placidity, and the whole scenery about these falls is uncom- monly beautiful and picturesque. During the wars between Uncas and the Narragansets, Uncas was closely besieged in his fort near the Thames, until his provisions be- came nearly exhausted, and he with his men were on the point of per- ishing by famine or sword. Fortu- nately he found means of giving in- telligence to the scouts who had been sent out from Saybi-ook fort. — By his messengers, he represented the great danger the English would be in, were the Narragansets suf- fered to overpower the Mohegans. '■' Upon this intelligence, one Thomas Leffingwell, an ensign at Saybrook, an enterprising, bold man, loaded a canoe with beef, corn and peas, and under the cover of night paddled from Saybrook into the Thames, and had the address to get the whole into the fort. The enemy soon perceiving that Uncas was relieved, raised the siege. — For this service, Uncas gave Lef- fingwell a deed of a great part, if not the whole town of Noi-wich. — In June, 1659, Uncas with his two sons, Owaneko and Attawanhood, by a more formal and authentic deed, made over to said I.,effingwell, John Mason, Esq., the Rev. James Fitch and others, consisting of thirty-tive proprietors, the whole of Norwich, which is about nine miles square. The company at this time gave Un- cas and his sons about £70, as a further compensation for so large and fine a tract." IVottiiigliaiii, N. H., Rockingham co., is 25 miles E. S. E. from Concord, and 20 \V. from Portsmouth. Population, in 1S30, 1,157. There are several ponds in this town, mosth' of small size. Lit- tle river and several other streams I'ise here ; and North river passes through the town. The soil is in many parts good, though the sur- face is rough and bioken. Sever- al mountains extend along the W. part of the town, forming parts of the I'ange called Blue Hills. A''otthighain Square is a pleas- ant village on an elevated site. Bog iron ore is found here in great quan- tities; audit is said inexhaustible masses of mountain ore exist in the mountains. Crystals and crystal- line spars are found here ; and also ochres in small quantities. Not- tingham was incorporated in 1722, and settled in 1727. Gen. Joseph Cilley entered the army of the revolution at its commencement and commanded the 1st N. H. regiment. He was dis- tinguishcil for biavei-y and patriot- ism during the whole contest. Hon. Thomas Bartlett was an active revolutioiiary patriot ; one of the committee of safety ; Lt. Col. under Stark at the capture of Bur- goyne, and commanded a regiment at West Point in 17S0, when the treachery of Arnold betrayed that post. Gen. Henry Butler was an officer in the army of the revolu- tion, and Major General of militia. Descendants of these revolutionary worthies now live in the town. Niilliegan River, Vt. This river rises by several branch- es in the highlands, at the north NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. part of Essex county. These branches unite and fall into ihe Connecticut at Brunswick. This river is in some parts rapid ; in oth- ers, deep and sluggish. It waters about 120 square miles, and is fifty feet wide at its mouth. The head waters of this and of the river Clyde, pass N. into Memphremagog lake, and are near each other. This was formerly an Indian route be- tween Connecticut river and Cana- da. Oakliam, Mass. Worcester co. The surface of this town is uneven ; some of the lands which border on the streams that fall into Chickopee river are fertile. The highlands are not very good. There is a satinet factory in the town, and manufactures of straw bonnets, palm-leaf hats, leath- er, ploughs, boots and shoes. Oakham lies 60 miles W. from Boston, and 15 N. W. from Worces- ter. It was taken from Rutland in 1762. Population, 1S37, 1,109. Oldtcwn, Me. Penobscot co. See Orono. 01Iass. Franklin co. Orange lies 72 miles W. from Boston, and 20 E. from Greenfield. Incorporated, 1783. Population, 1830, 880 ; 1837, 1,543. The manufactures of the town consist of iron castings, boots, shoes, palm-leaf hats, card boards, shoe pegs, chairs and cabinet ware : annual amount about $40,000. Mil- ler's river affords the town a good water power, and Tully hill a tine prospect. The soil is uneven, and better fitted for grazing than tillage. There is a pleasant village in the town, and a good fish pond. Orange, Ct. New Haven co. This town was taken from New Haven and Mil- ford in 1822. The name was adopt- ed in honor of William, Prince of Orange, in commemoration of the benefits received from him by the colony of Connecticut ; particular- ly for the restoration of their char- ter after the usurpation and tyranny of Edmund Andros. Orange lies about 4 miles S. W. from New Haven and is a pleasant town with a productive soil. The inhabitants are principally farmers. Savin Rock in this town is a roman- tic spot, and a place of resort in the summer. There are mines of sil- ver and copper in the town, and as- bestos is found in abundance in ser- pentine rocks. Population, 1830, 1,341. Orford, N. H. Grafton co. It lies on Connecti- cut river, over which is a bridge, connecting with Fairlee. Orford is 11 miles below Haverhill, 17 N. of Hanover, and 64 N. W. from Con- cord. The soil is generally of a fertile character. The large inter- vale farms, watered by the Connec- ticut, are particularly distinguished NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. for their beauty and fertility. There are two considerable elevations, called Mount Cuba and Mount Sun- day, lying near the centre of the town. There arc four or five ponds of considerable size, one of which, called Baker's upper pond, lies with- in 3 or 4 miles of Connecticut river. This pond discharges its waters in- to another pond, lying partly in Wentworth, and the waters of both empty into Baker's river. Indian pond lies about 1 mile west trom Baker's upper pond. Limestone is found in great abundance. It is of the primitive kind, coar.-^e grained, and forms astrongand hard cement. It is found at the foot of a mountain, about -100 or 500 feet above Connecticut river. Soap stone is also found here in great abundance. A light grey granite rock, much used for mill stones and for building, is found in various pla- ces. Galena, or lead ore, of a very fine texture, containing needles of crystallized quartz, or lead,hasbecn found, in considerable quantities in sinking a well. Orford contains a pleasant village, situated on the main road. " It is built on a beau- tiful plain bordered by intervale on the W. The hills on both sides of the river, near the centre of the ex- pansion, approach each other so as to form a kind of neck ; and with a similar appi-oxiination at the two ends give the whole the appear- ance of a double amphitheatre, or of the numerical figure 8. The greatest breadth of each division is about 11-2 miles ; and the length of each between 2 and 3 miles." The buildings stand princi|)ally on a sin- gle street, of 2 or 3 miles in extent. Orford was granted Sept. 25, 1761. In June, 1765, a Mr. Cross with his family, from Lebanon, first settled in tliis town. A congregational church was gatliered Aug. 27, 1770. Rev. Oliver Noble was ordained Nov. 5, 1771. Population, 1S30, 1,829. Orland, Me. Hancock co. This town lies on the east side of Penobscot river, op- posite to Orphan's Lsland. It lies 64 miles E. from Augusta and 12 W. from Ellsworth, tirland is fine- ly watered by ponds and streams : it has a good soil, a pleasant village and great navigable facilities. In- corporated, 1800. Population, 1830, 975; 1S37, 1,244. Orleans County, Vt. Irasbitrgh, chief town. This county is bounded N. by Lower Canada, E. by Essex and Caledonia counties, S. by Caledonia county, and W. by Franklin and Lamoille counties. This county lies between the eastern and western ranges of the Green mountains. The surface is generally handsome and the soil well adapted for wheat, rye and grass: the climate is rather too cold for corn, and some parts of the coun- ty is low and marshy. Orleans county is watered by Missisque, Black, Barton and other rivers. It contains more ponds than any coun- ty in the state. Much of its trade goes to Canada by the way of Memphremagog lake, which lies in this county and Canada. In 1837 there were 30,657 sheep in the county. Incorporated, 1792. Pop- ulation, 1S.30, 11,375. Orleans, Maes. Barnstable co. Orleans was tak- en from Eastham, in 1797. It ex- tends across a narrow part of Cape Cod, and is indented with coves and creeks onbotli sides. Stage harbor opens on the east through Chatham and Nauset beaches, which extend along the coast : — between which and the town is Pleasant bay, with several islands. In 1837, there were 33 vessels belonging to Orleans engaged in the cod and mackerel fishery, the tonnage of which was 2,3 10 "tons. They took 20,000 quin- tals of cod fish and 600 barrels of NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. mackerel. Tliere were 31,000 bushels of salt used, and 264 men and boys were employed. The value of fish taken, when cured and packed, was $91,100 : — capital in- vested, $33,000. There are 50 es- tablishments foi- the manufacture of salt in the town ; during the year ending April 1, 1837, there were 21,780 bushels made. There are also manufactures of palm-leaf hats, leather, boots, shoes and tin ware. Orleans lies 20 miles E. from Barn- stable. Population, 1S30, 1,799 ; 1837, 1,936. Orono, Me. Penobscot co. This town lies on the west side of Penobscot river, and is watered by Dead stream and a large part of Pushaw lake. It is 74 miles N. E. from Augusta. In- corporated, 1806. Population, 1830, 1,473; 1S37, 3,961. The soil of the town is good, and produced, in 1837, 1,744 bushels of wheat. This town borders on the Great Falls in Penobscot river, and contains a great number of saw mills, which manufacture a vast amount of lum- ber annually for the Bangoi- market. Orono is pleasant and uncommonlj' flourishing. A rail-road between Bangor and the villages of Stillwater and Old- toivn, in Orono, was opened foi- travel in 1836. It is 12 miles in length, and cost $350,000. The Penobscot river at Oldtown, above the falls, is 40 feet higher than at Bangor. The village of Stillwater is 4 miles below Oldtown. Above the falls, and about a mile above the village of Oldtown, near the mouth of Dead stream, on " Old- town Island," is the Indian Settle- ment. This settlement is very plea- santly located, and secure from ap- proach except by boats or canoes. It contains a number of framed houses, and a neat chapel with a bell. In 1837, John Neptune, the lieu- tenant Governor, and other officers of the Penobscot tribe of Indians, finished taking by fimilies a very particular census of all who belong to the ti-ibe, for the purpose of a just and equal distribution of the annuities and other monies paid to them. It was found that the fami- lies in all were ninety five — the list exhibiting the head of each family by name, and the number of indi- viduals each one contains, annexed thereto. The whole number of souls in the tribe was three hundred and sixty-two. Their officers are, a governor, lieutenant governor, a colonel, four captains, one 'squire, and one deacon. In religion they are catholics. Several of them can read, and a few can write, though in a poor hand. The whole tribe is divided in pol- itics, and on some occasions party spirit rages with almost as much warmth as among the pale faces, though generally better tempered. No affiiir of honoi', or rather of murder, has ever been known to disgrace these savages. The tribe own, collectively, all the islands in the Penobscot river, beginning with that of Oldtown, where their village is, and including all up as far as the forks, several miles above the Matawamkcag, many of which are exceedingly pleasant and fertile. The Indians are not poor, having sold some of their lands for large sums. To such a remnant, howev- er, is this tribe reduced — a tribe an- ciently and uniformly called the Tarratines, who could biing into the field more than two thousand warriors, and who claimed the lands on both sides of the Penobscot riv- er from its sources to its mouth. Orphan's Island, Me. Penobscot co. This island, con- taining about 5,000 acres of excel- lent land, at the mouth of Penob- scot river, is 4 miles in length. It is attached to the town of Bucksport ; thg head or north part of it lies oppo- NEW ENGLAND GA/.F.TTr.ER. site to tlie beautiful village in (liat town. This island divides tiie Penol)- soot into two branches: the western or main branch is called the " Nar- rows, "on which side a tort is about to be constructed bj' the U. S. govern- ment for the protection of the river. The other branch is called " Eastern river." This beautiful island derived its name from its having been the pro- perty of an orphan heiress who in- iierited it as her part of the Waldo Patent. Orriugton, Me. Penobscot co. This is a fine town- ship of land with a handsome vil- lage on the east side of Penobscot river, opposite to Hampden. The town has a good mill stream and en- joys great navigable facilities. Pop- ulation, 1837, 1,426. Wheat crop, .same year, 2,340 bushels. Orwell, Vt. Rutland co. This town lies on Champlain lake opposite to Ticon- ileroga, N. Y. and contains Mount Independence, celebrated in the an- nals of the revolutionary war. The lake here is about a mile wide, and from the Mount a delightful pros- pect is presented. Orwell was first permanently settled in 1783. The .soil of the town is generally good and productive. In 1S37 it contain- ed 21,512 sheep. There is a spring in the town from the waters of which Epsom salts have been made, and shells of animals have been found supposed to have pertained to the ocean. There are good mill streams in Orwell and a pleasant village. Population, 1330, 1,.598. Strafford co. is 60 milcr, N. N. E. from Concord, and about 15 N. E. from Gilford, across Winnepisiogec lake. Ossipce mountain, a rough and broken range, lies in the N. \V. part of Ossipee, extending into the adjoining towns. It is 6 or S miles in length, and is so elevated that in easterly stoi-ms the winds break over the sumniits, frequently caus- ing much injury to the faiias, and buildings at its base. Ossipec lake is in this town, and Freedom : it is a tine body of water, of an oval form, covering about 7,000 acres, having no island, and its waters clear and beautiful. Ossipce river fiows from this lake, from whence it passes through Fi'cedom into the Saco, in Maine. Pine river passes through the E. part of Os-;ipee, and Bear- camp river falls into the lake on the N. VV. There are several ponds in Ossipee, the largest of which lies partly in Tuftonborough, and is a!)Out 400 rods long. Bear pond in the S. E. part, has no visible outlet. Near the W. shore of Ossipee lake, is a mound of earth 45 or 50 feet in diameter, of a circular form, and about 10 feethigh, from which have been taken sevtral entire skeletons, and also tomahawks, &c. exhibiting the strongest evidence that the tribe once so i)Owerful in this vicinity had their principal residence here. Ossipee was incorporated, Feb. 22, 1785. Population, 1830, 1,935. Otis, Me. Hancock co. Otis was incorpo- rated in 1835. It is bounded on the west by Ellsworth. It is the source of some of the rivers which flow into Frenchman's bay, and Union river, passes its N. \V. corner. Pop- ulation, 1837, 92. Otis, Mass. Berkshire co. This township is on high ground, and is the source of some of the head waters of Farni- ington and Westlield rivers. These streams flowfrom several very hand- some ponds. The surface of the town is uneven but the soil is pro- ductive, particularly of good pastur- i!oe. The manufactures consist of leather, boots, shoes, chairs, cabi- net ware, lutnbcr, &c. It lies 130 miles \V. bv S. from Boston, and 15 NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. S. E. from Lenox. Population, 1837, 1,077. Incorporated, 179-3. Otisfield, Me. • Cumberland co. This town is watered by Crooked river, which empties into Sebagolake. The soil is very good, and produced, in 1S37, 4,525 bushels of wheat. It lies 82 miles S. S. W. from Augusta and 32 N. N. W. from Portland. Pop- ulation 1830, 1,257. Otter Creels, Vt. This stream rises on the south part ot Rutland county : — it traverses, in a northern course, nearly through the centre of that county, and wa- ters Clarendon, Rutland, Pittsford, Brandon and other towns ; it then enters Addison county, and passes to Middlebury, where it falls very considerably, affording that pleasant town an admirable water power; — it then passes Weybridge, New Ha- ven and Vergennes, and falls info Champlain lake at Ferrisburgh. From Vergennes it is navigable for the largest lake vessels, 8 miles. There are no considerable falls on this stream except at Middlebury, Weybridge and Vergennes. In ma- ny parts of its course it is sluggish. From Middlebury to Pittsford, a distance of 25 miles, it is navigable for boats. Otter Creek has many tributaries which afford a great wa- ter power. Its length is about 90 miles, and on its banks are large tracts of alluvial meadows, some of the best in the state. It receives the waters of a basin of about 900 square miles. Owl's Head, Me. Lincoln co. This noted place on our eastern waters is a point of land attached to the town of Thomaston, running out three or four miles into Penobscot bay, opposite to the island town of Vinalhaven. Owl's Head forms the western entrance into the mouth of Penobscot river, and has a light house to guide the wary mariner on his way. A breakwater is about being erected, which will render the harbor at this place one of the most commodious, as it is one of the most important, on the coast. An almost countless number of ves- .':els pass this place annually. Fre- quently five hundred pass in a day. From March 15th to June 15th,1838, 5019 sail were seen to pass in the day time. Owl's Head is not only a stopping place in a stoim, but a resort for great numbers of people, for many miles around, to take pas- sages on board of steamers and oth- er vessels. It is a delightful place in summer, and has justly acquired a reputation for possessing all the various enjoyments which induce thousands to visit the sea coast at other places. It lies 4 miles E. from Thomaston, 55 S. from Bangor, 40 S. E. from Augusta, and 79 E. N. E. from Portland. Oxford County, Me. Paris, chief town. This county is bounded N. by Lower Canada, E. by Franklin and Kennebec coun- ties, S. by Cumberland and York counties, and W. by New Hamp- shire. It is watered by the Margalla- way, Androscoggin, Saco, and nu- merous other rivers. In the noi th- orn pait of the county lies a collec- tion of large lakes whose waters empty into the Umbagog, and pass to the ocean by the Androscoggin and Kennebec rivers. Although some parts of the county are rough and mountainous, yet a very large part of it is exceedingly fertile, par- ticularly on the borders of its nu- merous rivci-s, lakes and ponds. This county contained an area of 2,684 square miles previous to the formation of Franklin county, in 1838, which was formed partly from Oxford county. The population of Oxford county, in 1820, was 17,630; 1830, 35,211 ; 1837, 40,640. Popu- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. lation to a square mile, 15. Tlie number of sheep in tliis county, in 1837, was 76,028. Oxford, Me. Oxford CO. This town is watered by little Androscoggin river and several ponds. It contains some excellent land and two flourishing villages. It produced, in 1837, 3,22() bushels of wheat. Population, same jear, 1,124. Oxford lies .52 miles S. W. from Augusta, and 8 S. from Paris. Oxford, Mass. Worcester co. This is an impor- tant manufacturing town, of uneven surface, strong, giavelly soil; 45 miles W. from Boston and 10 S. from Worcester. Incorporated, 1773. Population, 1837, 2,047. There are in the town 5 woolen and 4 cotton mills, and manufactures of boots and shoes : — total value, the year ending April 1, 1837, $501,394. Oxford is a pleasant town, and fine- ly watered by French river, which passes to the ocean by the Quinne- baug and Thames. The original township of Oxford was eight miles square, and was granted to Joseph Dudley and oth- ers, in 1680, for the accommodation of about 30 Frencl) protestant fam- ilies, who had escaped from France after the revocation of the Edict of Nantz, when they became exposed to every cruelty and hardship that catholic intolerance and religious bigotry could invent. They were assisted in their emigration to this country by the proprietors of the grant, and settled here about 1686. They built a fort on a hill in the eastern part of the town, now called Mayo's, or Fort Hill, where its remains are still visible. It was consti-ucted bj' the rules of ai-t, with bastions, and had a well within its enclosure. They had another fort, and a meeting house. The grapes, currants, and asparagus of their planting, scill grow here, and the last of the peach trees was destroy- ed by the gale of 1815. They had a minister while resident here, whose name was Bondet. These people remained here till 1696, when the Indians attacked the place and murdered some of the people. This so teriitied the inhabitants that they left the place, and most of them settled in Boston, where a French church was maintained by them several years. Oxford, Ct. New Haven co. Oxford was tak- en from Derby in 1798. It lies 14 miles N. W. from New Haven and 40 S. W. from Hartford. It is watered by Housatonick and Nan- gatuck rivers. The surface of the town is diversified with hills and valle3's ; — the soil is generally a gravelly loam, fertile and produc- tive. There are large manufacturing establishments in Oxford, among which are three satinet factories and an extensive hat manufactory. The water power at this place is excellent. Population, 1S30, 1,763. From " Governor's Hill" a tine view of the neat village of " Qua- ker Farms," and the surrounding country is presented. About one mile south of the cen- tral pai-t of the town is a remarka- ble mineral spring, called " The Pool,"fiom the cii-cumstance of its watei's being efficacious, and much used for the cure of the salt rheum and other complaints. " Once in a month a yellowish scum will col- lect upon the surface of the water, which in a few days runs off', and leaves the pool perfectly clear. In the coldest weather, this spring never freezes ; in the dryest season it is as full as at other times." Palermo, Me. Waldo CO. This town is watered by several beautiful ponds, which form the head waters of Sheepscot river. This is a farmina; town of NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. good soil and undulating surface, — it produced, in 1S37, 5,326 bushels of wheat. Popuhition, same year, 1,538. It lies 16 miles E. N. E. from Augusta, and 24 W. fi-om liel- fast. Incorporated, 1804. Paliner, Mass. Hampden co. This town was originally settled by a colony fiom Ireland. It was incorporated in 1752. The surface of Palmer is hilly, but the soil is good, particu- larly along the banks of Ware and Swift rivers, by which it is finely watered, and supplied with water power. There are 1 woolen and 2 cotton mills in the town, and manu- factuies of boots, shoes, scythes, palm-leaf hats and wagons ; — total amount, the year ending April 1, 1837, $178,556. The value of 2,652 fleeces of wool sheared in this town, that year, was $4,243. — Palmer lies 70 miles W. by S. from Boston, and 16 E. N. E. from Springtield. Population, 1830, 1,237; 1837,1,810. Palmyra, Me. Somerset co. Sebasticook river passes through this town, and af- fords it a good water power. The soil is rich, and the surface undulating. There are some mills in the town, and considerable attention is paid to its agricultural interests. It lies 51 miles N. N. E. from Augusta, and 25 E. N. E. from Norridgewock. Incorporated, 1807. Population, in 1837, 1,328. Wheat crop, same year, 8,523 bushels. Panton, Vt. Addison co. This town is bound- ed W. by Champlain lake, and E. by Otter creek. A sluggish stream passes through it; yet, althougli thus watered, it does not possess a good mill site, the country being exceed- ingly level. It lies 40 miles W. S. W. from Montpelier, 13 N. W. from Middlebury, 25S.by W. from Burlington, and is 4 miles from Elizabetlitown, N. Y., across the lake. Population, 1830, G05. Paris, Me. Cliief town, Oxford co. Paris is well watered, and supplied with mill privileges by Little Androscoggin river, on whicli are several mills in the town. The soil is excellent, al- though in some parts uneven and mountainous. The principal vil- lage is well built, pleasantly located, and the seat of considerable busi- ness. The town was incorporated in 1793. Population, 1S37, 2,352. Wheat crop, same j'eai-, 10,45."{ bushels. Paris lies 42 miles W. by S. from Augusta, and 40 N. by W. from Portland. Parknian, Me. Piscataquis CO. This town is wa- tered by a branch of Piscataquis river, and has an excellent soil for agricultural purposes. It lies 64 miles N. by E. from Augusta, and 14 W. from Dover. Incorporated, 1822. Population, 1830,803; 18.37, 1,125. Wheat crop, 1837, 6,018 bushels. Parsoitsiield, Me. York CO. This town lies at the N. W. corner of the county, and is bounded W. by the state of New Hampshire, and N. by Ossipee riv- er. It is 36 miles W. by N. from Portland, 21 N. by W. from Alfred, and 93 W. S. W. from Augusta. — First settled, 1774. Incorporated, 1785. Population, 1837, 2,510.— The surface of the town is rough and hilly, but the soil, thouirh hard, is productive of good crops of grain and hay. Wheat crop, 1837, 3,929 bushels. There are many good farmers in this town, and good specimens ot iron ore, zinc and crystalized quartz are found here. In this place is an incorporated seminary, for the edu- cation of males and i'emales. The institution is under the direction of the Free Will Baptists, and is in a flourishino" condition. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Passadnmkeag, Me. Penobscot co. Tliis town lies on the east side of Penobscot river, DS miles N. E. from Augusta, and 30 N. by E. from Bangor. The soil of the town is fertile, and promises ii rich reward to the industrious farm- er. Population, 1S;]7, 422. Wheat crop, same year, 1,070 bushels. Tlie village of Passadumheag is admirable located, and will doubt- less become an important mart of the trade of a large section of coun- try. This flourishing village lies at the junction of Passadumkeag river with the Pcnob,-cot. This delight- ful stream is about 25 miles in length. It rises in the north east- ern part of this county, and waters the northern part of Hancock coun- ty. It re-enters Penobscot county, and receives the Cold stream, two miles from Passadumkeag village. Both the Passadumkeag and Cold stream afford excellent mill privi- leges. Passamaqtioddy Bay, Mc. This bay lies partly in Maine, and partly in the Biili>h Province of New Brunswick. The bounda- ry line between the state of Maine and New Brunswick passes through the western part of this bay up the river St. Croix. Campo Bello,Deer, and other English islands almost en- close this bay from the ocean. At its mouth it is about 9 miles in width, and extends from West Quoddy Head, in Lubec, due north into New Brunswick, about 25 miles. — This bay contains a great number of excellent harbors ; it is never froz- en over, and abounds with cod, her- ring and other fishes. The most important English town on this bay is St. Andrews, a very flourishing place, 15 miles N. from Eastport. — The P atisamaiiuodiJy Indians re- side at Perry, Me. Passompsick River, Vt. This river rises in Caledonia, and on the south border of Essex '27 counties. It passes south about 35 miles, and falls into the Connec- ticut at Barnet, about a mile below the foot of Fifteen ]\Iile Falls. It has a number of tributaiies. This is a valuable stream, both on ac- count of the numerous mill sites it aflbrds, and the large tracts of choice intervale it forms on its borders. — It is generally deep, but in many places it is very lapid, and forms beautiful cascades. Patrickto-\vn, Me. Lincoln co. This plantation contains the principal part of a large pond, and is watered by streams which flow into the Shcepscot and Damariscotta. This is a large plan- tation, of good soil. Population, 1837, 4G5. It lies 17 miles E. fiom Augusta, and 20 N. W. from War- ren. PaAvcatuck River. This river rises in the westeiii part of Rhode Island, and empties into Long Island Sound, separating, at its mouth, the towns of Westerly, R. I., and Stonington, Ct. It is navigable about b niiles from its mouth, and Wood and Charles riv- ers, two of its principals tributaries, are good mill streams. Pawcatuck villaj^e. See West- erly. Pawlet, Vt. Rutland CO. First settled, 1761. Population, 1830, 1,965. Pawlet lies 21 miles S. W. fiom Rutland, and 27 S. E. from Whitehall, N. Y. The town is watered by Pawlet river, which falls into Champlain lake at Whitehall, and by Indian liver, which rises from a spring sulficiently large to carry a mill. — The latter river was formerly a great resort of the natives, who fre- quented it for trout and other lish with which it abounds. The terri- tory of Pawlet is nearly divider! by a range of mountains, the highe.st summit of which is known by iUk NEW ENGLAND CAZKTTSER. name of '' Haystack." This i^ a pleasant town, with some manufac- tures. The soil is dry and warm, and produces good crops of corn and hay. It feeds about 14,000 sheep. Pa-vvtucket, Mass. Bristol CO. The town of Pawtuck- et lies on the east side of the river of the same name. It is two miles square, and was taken fi-om Seekonk in 1828. The population of the town, inlS30,was 1,453; 1337, 1,881. The village of Paivtucket is very pleasant; — it is an important manufacturing place, commanding a considerable trade, and contains a population of about 8,000. It lies on both sides of the river, and in- cludes a part of the town of North Providence, in R. I. The first manufiicture of cotton cloth in this country, by water pow- er machinery, was commenced at this place. The water power is immense, and the fall of the river within a short distance, is 50 feet. The river is navigable to the vil- lage for vessels of considerable burthen. It runs 4 miles S. by W. to Providence river, at India Point, near the depot of the Boston and Providence rail-roaii, one mile be- low the centre of the city of Provi- dence. The river, above Pawtuck- et, in Massachusetts, takes the name oiBlackstone; helowthe falls it takes the name of Seekuak. This place is 4 miles N. from Providence, 36 S. from Boston, 16 W. by S. from Taunton, and 33 S. E. from Wor- cester. At this place are 12 or more cotton mills and print works, and manufactures of cotton machin- ery, bobbins, spools, &c. ; of boots, shoes, carriages, vessels, chairs, cabinet wares, &c. ; total annual value, about two millions of dollars. The turnpike road from this place to Providence is probably the best road of the kind in the world. It is very straight, wide, Irtvel, smooth, and shaded on each side by beauti- ful trees. Samuel Slater, Esq., the father of cotton manufactures in America, resided in this village many years. He died at Webster, Mass., greatly respected, April 20, 1835, aged 67. Pa^vtuxet Kiver, R. I. This celebrated river rises in the western part of the State. It has nu- mei-ous tributaries, and mingles with the waters of the Narraganset, five miles below Providence. This riv- er is distinguished for its valuable mill sites, and for the numerous man- ufacturing establishments erected on its banks. Pawtuxet and its branches fertilize a large portion of the state. See Warwick. Paxtou, Mass. Worcester co. Paxton was tak- en from Leicester and Rutland, in 1765. It is on high ground ; its waters descend both to the Connec- ticut and Merrimack. It lies 50 miles W. from Boston, and 7 N. W. from Worcester. Population, 1837, 619. This is a pleasant town, with manufactures of palm-leaf hats. boots, shoes, leather, carriages, &c. The surface of the town is uneven, but the soil is good, and well culti- vated by its proprietors. Peacham, Vt. Caledonia co. As no town can be considered properly peopled without some of the fair sex, the date of the firstsettlement of Peach- am must have been near 1777, when Henry Elkins, the first child in town, was born. The first mill was erected in 1781. The town is well watered by several ponds and streams ; the surface is pleasantly diversified; the soil fertile and well cultivated by independent farmers. The agricultural products are con- siderable. About 6,000 sheep are kept. Peachaiii lies 20 miles E. by N. from Montpelicr, and 8 S. by W. from Danville. Population, 1830, 1,351. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Peeling, N. H. Grafton co. Tliis town is 20 miles N. from Plymouth, and 60 N. from Concord. The Pe in isjew asset pas- ses through its E. section. The three branches of this river unite in the N. part of Peeling. There are sev- eral brooks and rivulets which sup- ply this place with a number of mill privileges. The ponds are numer- ous. Cushman's mountain, in the S. W., Black mountain in the N. W., and Blue mountain in the W. are the highest elevations. Among these mountains, branches of the Wild Amonoosuck and Baker's riv- ers, and Moosehillock brook, have their sources. On the last stream there is a beautiful cascade. There are here two springs which have been termed medicinal. Peeling was settled about 1773. Popula- tion, 1830, 291. Pelliam, N. H. Hillsborough co. This town is distant 37 miles S. from Concord, and 19 S.E. froniAmherst. Here are three ponds, called Gumpas, Island, and North ponds. Beaver river passes through the town. On this river and the tributary streams there is much valuable meadow. — The inhabitants depend principally on agricultui-e for the means of sup- port. Much timber and cord wood are carried annually to the banks of the Merrimack, and thence convey- ed to Newburyport, or to Boston through Middlesex canal. The first settlements were made in 1722. The town was incorporated in 174G, about 5 years after the state line was established, by which a part was separated from Uracut, Mass. Pop- ulation in 1S30, 1,075. Pelhaxn, ^lass. Hampshire co. This town lies 80 miles W. from Boston, and 13 N. E. from Northampton. It w.1s in- corporated in 1742. Population, in 1837, 957. The surface of the town is elevated and uneven ; the soil is hard but productive. Swift and Fort rivers adbrd it mill privi- leges. Some palm-leaf hats are made here. Some years ago the notorious Stephen Burroughs profaned the christian sabbath, by imposing him- self on the iniiocent people of Pcl- hara as a minister of the gospel. Peiiiaclumcook Lake, ]fle., Or the Bamedumpkok. This large lake is of very irregular form, containing a great number of isl- ands, and lies a few miles N.from Ba- ker's mountain. It receives the waters of numerous lakes, or col- lections of water, lying between it and the eastern sources of the Moose Head. The soil on the bor- ders of the Pemadumcook, and the lakes connected with it, is remark- ably fertile. The Jo Mary lakes arc beautiful sheets of water, and are surrounded by some of the best timbered land in the state. They lie near the Pemadumcook; and the facilities afforded for rafting lumber down the Penobscot, through that lake, render that section of country very valuable. Pembroke, JUe. Washington co. Population, in 1837, 86G. M'heat crop, same year, 1,216 bushels. It lies 178 miles from Augusta. See " Down East." Peniliroke, 3V. H., Merrimack co., lies 60 miles N. W. from Boston, and 6 S. E. from Concord. This town is generally well watered. The Suncook, on the S. E. boundary, furnishes many val- uable water privileges. The main street extends nearly on a parallel with Merrimack river in a straight course about three miles, and is very pleasant. On this are situated the academy anIe. Lincoln co. This is an important point of land, extending into the sea between Muscongusbay on the east, and Pemmaquid river and the waters of Damari>;ootta on the west. There is a light house on this point, which bears W. 10 miles from St. George's island, and about N. E. 9 miles fi-om Biuitam Ledge. Penobscot River aud Bay, Me. This large and important river, with its numerous and extensive branches water a large portion of the state. It pierces the county which bears its name and receives tributaries from Washington, Han- cock, \- aldo, Piscataquis and Som- erset counties. Below the union of the eastern and western branch- es the Piscataquis and Matawam- keag are its lai-gcst tributaries. From the junction of the two branches, or " the Forks," to tide water at Bangor is about 76 miles. The east branch rises at the north, in the Seboois lakes, near Aroostook i-iver, and on its passage to the junc- tion, a distance of about 50 miles, it is properly called Seboois river. The western branch of the Pe- nobscot rises in the high lands on the border of Lower Canada and the western frontier of Maine. It passes through the counties of Sora- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEEU. ersct and Pisca(aquis in an eastern direction, to its junction with the eastern branch, rcceivins; in its course the watejs of lakes Cliesun- cook, Pemailumcook, Rlillinoket, and other large collections of water. This branch passes within 3 miles of the northern border of Moose Head lake, the source of Kenne- bec river. The length of this branch of the Penobscot, from its source to its union with the east bi-anch or Seboois river, maj' be stated at about 140 miles; and the greatest length of the river to Bangor, 215, and to the ocean, 275 miles. Some of the most important tributaries of this majestic river, are noted under their distinctive names; a description of them all with their hydraulic powers and boat- able capabilities, their rapid cour- ses and beautiful cataracts, tlieii- fertilizing qualities, and other pecu- liarities, would till a volume. In- deed, these streams and the immense basin wliicli they drain, are so little known, that some years must elapse before any thing like a fair delinea- tion of the value and beauty of this interesting section of New Eng- land can be given. Penobscot Bay. The waters of this bay extend from Owl's Head on the west, to Burnt Coat Island on the E. ; a distance of about ;J0 miles. At its mouth are Fox Is- lands, Deer Isle, Isle of Haut, and a number of smaller islands. It extends to Belfast bay, at the mouth of Penobscot river, a dis- tance of 20 miles N. from Owl's Head. This bay contains a great number of commodious harbors, and on its borders are many large and flourishing commercial towns. It affords a great variety of fish, and the scenery among the islands is de- lightful. Penobscot County, Me. Bangor, chief town. This sec- 27* tion of country constituting a coun- ty, is rather a district within the state, to be divided into counties as exigencies may require. Not more than a fourth part of the territory is settled, incorporated into towns, or even granted. With the excep- tion of a small portion at its south- ern boundary, it comprises a fertile wilderness, densely wooded, pierc- ed in every direction with mill streams, and adorned with beautiful lakes. It contains a larger extent of territory than the whole agri- cultural state of Vermont, with its 14 large and HourisJiing counties ; of no better soil, at a greater dis- tance from the ocean, in nearly the same latitude, and, in 1837, with a population of no less than 31 to a square mile. In 1837, before a part of this ter- ritory was sit od'to form Piscataquis county, it comprised an area of 10,- 578 square miles. It was incorpo- rated as a county in 1816. In 1790, it contained a population of only 1,154. In 1820, the population was 13,870; 1330, 31,530, and in 1S37, 54,9(51. Population to a square mile, 5 and a fraction. Increase of population, in 7 years, 74 per cent. There are some mountains in this countj', but the surface is generally undulating, containing as small a portion of waste land as any county in the state, in proportion to its size. With regard to its soil, it is con- ceded by all who have traveled through the territory and examined it, that its quality, for the produc- tion of all the commodities necessa- ry for the wants and comforts of man, is better than the soil of New- England generally. The manufactures of this county consist principally of lumber, of which an immense amount is annu- ally transported. Other manufac- tures, however, are rising on the banks of its livers, and will doubt- less increase with its population. In 1837, there were 39,154 sheep NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. in the county of Penobscot, and its wheat crop, the same year, amount- ed to 202,143 bushels. Large portions of the soil of this almost wilderness county are stated to be exceedingly luxuriant, equal- ling in qualit}'^ the famed lands of the Ohio valley. There are doubt- less large tracts of land in the val- leys of the Mattawamkeag, Aroos- took, St. Johns, and Madawaska, as fertile, and which will ultimately become as valuable for their agri- cultural productions, as any in our country. The water power of this county is unrivalled by any section of coun- try of its extent in the world, and the noble Penobscot furnishes it with a cheap and convenient pas- sage for the wants of its people from abroad, and for the surplus productions of the soil at home. When the resources of this coun- ty are more fully developed and better understood ; when the hcalth- fuJness of the climate, the purity of its air and water, are fairly compared with those of the western and southern prairies, and when the value of a suiplus bushel of wheat, or a fat ox on the banks of the O'liio, is compared with the value of the same productions on the banks of the Penobscot, we trust there will be less complaint against the soil of New England, for the want of pat- ronage it affords to the enterprize, comfort, and wealth of her children. Peuoljscot, Me. Hancock co. A maritime town, on the E. side of Penobscot bay, nearly opposite to Belfast, and 12 miles E. by N. from it. It is 75 miles E. by N. from Augusta, 8 N. byE. from Castine, and 17 S. W. from Ellsworth. An arm of Penob- scot bay sets up from the S. W., and gives the town great navigable facil- ities. It has a great water power, and its manufacture of lumber, its ship building, and coasting trade, render it an important and flourish- ing sea port. The surface of the town is pleasant, and the soil good. Papulation, 1837, 1,493. Wheat crop, same year, 2,074 bushels. — Incoi'porated, 1787. Pepjjcrell, Mass. Middlesex co. This is a very pleasant town, with a good soil and handsome orchards. It is watered by the Nashua river, which gives it a good water power. There are three paper mills in the town, and manufactures of palm-leaf hats, boots, shoes, &c. Annual amount about .«(SO,000. Incorporated, 1753. Population, 1837, 1,586. It lies 33 miles N. W. from Boston, and 17 N. N. W. from Concord. Col. William Prescott, the brave defender of Charlestown heights, was a native of this town. He died in 1795, aged 70. This town derived its name from Sir William Pepperell, who about the year 1727, was chosen one of his majesty's council, and was annually re-elected 32 years, till his death. Living in a coun- try exposed to a ferocious enemy, h.8 was well fitted for the situa- tion, in which he was placed, for it pleased God to give him a vigorous frame, and a mind of tirm tex- ture, and of great calmness in dan- ger. He rose to the highest mili- tary honors which his country could bestow upon him. When the ex- pedition against Louisbourg was contemplated, he was commission- ed by the governors of New Eng- land to command the troops. He invested the city in 1745. There was a remarkable series of provi- dences in the whole affair, and Mr. Pepperell ascribed his unparalleled success to the God of armies. The king, in reward for his services, conferred upon him the dignity of a baronet of Great Britain, an honor never before conferred on a native of New England. He died at his seat in Kittery, Maine, July 6, 1759, aged C3 years, leaving but one NEW ENGLAND GAZETTI'.r.R. daughter, the wife of Col. Natlian- icl Sparhawk. The last Sir Wil- liam (son of Col. Sparhawk,) died ill London in 1317. The name and title are extinct. Lady ^L^I•y Pepperell, relict of Sir William Pepperell, died at her seat in Kittcry, Nov. 25, 1789. She was daughter of Grove Hirst, Esq. and grand-dau£,liter of Hon. Judge Scwall. Her natural and acquired powers were said to be very respectable, and she was much admired for her wit and sweetness of manners. William Pepperell, the fa- ther of the lirst Sir William, was a native of Cornwall, England, and emigrated to this country about the year 1676, and settled at the Isles of Shoals, as a fisherman. It is said, he was so poor for some time after his arrival, that the lady to whom he paid his addresses at the Shoals would not hearken to him. However, in a few ycais, by his industry and frugality, he got enough to send out a brig, which he loaded to Hull. The lady now gave her consent. After his mar- riage, he removed to Kittery, where he became a very wealthy merchant, and died in 1734. Pequatvkett River, N. H. Pequawkctt, written by Belknap Pigwacket, and by Sullivan Pick- wocket, but the true orthography is found to be Pe-quaw-kett ; an In- dian name applied to a considerable tract of country, now including Conway, N. H., Fryeburgh, Me., and some of the adjacent towns. — It is also the name of a river flow- ing into the Saco, from two ponds in Eaton ; and of a mountain be- tween Bartlett and Chatham, for- merly called Kearsarge. Perry, Me. Washington co. This town lies on the W. side of St. Croix river, and 5 miles N. W. from Kastport, to which it is connected by a bridge. It is favored with good navigable waters, and is a place of considera- ble enterprise in the fishing busi- ness, -;|iip building, and the coasting and lumber trade. It is 184 miles E. by N. fiom Augusta, and 25 E. N. E. fi-om JNIachias. Incorporated, 1818. Population, 1837,929. At Pleasant Point, in this town, on the margin of the river, is an Indian resei'vation, the residence of the remnant of the Openangos, or Passamaquoddy tribe. The village contains a Roman Catholic church, about 20 cottages, and 120 souls. — The reservation comprises about 27,000 acres. Peru, Me. Oxford CO. Peru is hounded on the N. by Androscoggin river, and contains some pleasant ponds and mill streams. It has a good soil and produced, in 1837, 3,457 bushels of wheat. Population, same year, 854. Incoiporatcd, 1821. Peru lies 38 miles W. by N. from Augus- ta, and 17 N. by E. from Paris. Peru, Vt. Bennington co. This is a Green Mountain township, high and brok- en. It contains two large lish ponds from which issue beautiful moun- tain streams. First settled, 1773. Population, 1S30, 455. It lies 30 miles N. N. E. from Bennington, and 30 S. W. from Windsor. Peru, Mass. Berkshire co. This is a rough and mountainous town, wherein branches of Ilousatonick and West- field rivers rise. It was formerly called Partridgefieid, and incorpo- rated by that name in 1771. The soil is cold but adapted for grazing. The inhabitants are chiefly farm- ers. Population, 1837, 656. In that year 6,127 sheep were sheared in this town ; the value of the wool, which weighed 18,381 lbs., was .«!l 1,948. Pern lies 111 miles W. from Boston, 18 N. E. from Lenox, NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. and 47 E. from Albany, N. Y. It is the highest hind between the Connecticut and Hudson rivers. Peterljorowgh, BT. H. Hillsborough co. This town lies midway between Amherst and Keene, being 20 miles from each. Itis 75 miles W. S. W. from Ports- mouth, 60 N. W. from Boston, and 40 S. W. from Concord. Peterbo- rough lies in a N. E. direction from the Grand Monadnock,and is bound- ed on the E. by a chain of hills called Pack Monadanck. Contoo- cook river runs in a N. E. and N. direction through the centre of the town, affording several good privi- leges for mills and factoiies. The N. branch, from Dublin, originating partly from waters near the JMonad- nock, and partly from Long, or Hunt's pond, lying in Nelson and Hancock, affords a never-failing supply of water, and furnishes those noble falls, on which are situated several factories. There are ex- tensive and valuable meadows on this branch, above these falls; and the soil generally throughout the town is excellent. In the centre of the town is a high hill, on which is situated the meeting house, at an elevation of 200 feet above the riv- er. The chain of hills on the E. is distinguished by two principal sum- mits. Between these summits is a depression of a quarter part of the mountain's height. About 60 rods W. of the ridge, or summit of this depression, on an embeachment of the mountain, is a pond of about 9 acres extent, very deep and re- plenished with fish, at an elevation of 200 feet above the site of the meeting house. There are rocks in several places which afford indi- cations of sulphur, and crumble on exposure to the sun and air. Iron ore of an excellent quality has been discovered, but as yet in small quantities. Peterborough was grant- ed in 173S, by the government of Massachusetts to Samuel Heyvvood and others. The first settlement took place in 1739. In 1759 there were 45 families, and on the 17th Jan., the next jear, the town was incorporated. The first settlers of Peterborough were Scotch Presby- terians, from Ireland, or their im- mediate descendants. Wholly un- used to clearing and cultivating of wild lands, they endured great hard- ships. Their nearest gristmill was at Townsend, 25 miles distant — their road, a line of marked trees. The first male child born here, was John Richie ; he was born Feb 22, 1751, and died in the service of his country at Cambridge, in 1776. — Population, 1S30, 1,931. Fetersliaiil, Mass. Worcester co. Petersham is a very pleasant town, elevated on a swell of fertile land, and pre- senting a fine prospect of many of the neighboring towns. It was first settled about the year 1732, and was called by the Indians JYasha- wang. Swift river waters a part of the town, and affords a water power. There is a woolen mill in the town; and manufactures of palm-leaf hats, leather, boots, shoes, chairs, and cabinet ware : total an- nual value, about $60,000. It lies 62 miles W. by N. from Boston, and 27 N. W. from Worcester. Popula- tion, 1837, 1,731. Incorporated, 1751. PMllips, Me. Franklin co. This town is wa- tered by Sandy river. It lies 53 miles N. W. from Augusta, and 15 N. W. from Farmington. Incorpo- rated, 1812. Pop. 1830, 954 ; 1837, 1 ,233. Wheat crop, in 1837, 6,238 bushels. Pliillipst on, Mass. Worcester co. There is a large pond in this town, the source of Burnshint river. This pleasant town was taken from Athol and Temple- ton, in 1786. It was called Gerry until 1812. The manufactures of NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the town consist of cotton and woolen goods, palm-leaf hats, leath- er, boots and shoes ; annual value, about $75,000. It lies 5S miles N. W. by W. from Boston, and 25 N. W. from Worcester. Population, 1837, 8S7. Pliipsburgli, me. Lincoln co. This is a maritime town at the mouth of Kennebec riv- er, on the west side, 40 miles S. from Augusta, and 18 S. W. from Wiscasset. Population, 1837, 1,430. It consists of a peninsula of land, of about 15 miles in length, and from two to four miles in width, ly- ing between Kennebec river, on the east, and New Meadows, or Stevens' river, on the west, and ex- tending from .Small Point, the east- ern boundary of Casco bay, to the town of Bath on the north. It con- tains a U. S. fort, and Seguin and Pond islands, on which are light houses. Phipsburgh was taken from the ancient town of Bristol, in 1816", and named in honor of Governor Phips, who was born in Bristol. Governor Phips lived in the wil- derness of Maine till he was eigh- teen years of age, and was then an apprentice to a ship-carpenter four years. He went to Boston, and learned to read and write. He chose to seek his fortune on the sea, and had the good luck to discover the wreck of a very valuable Spanish vessel on the coast of Hispaniola, and by tlie aid of the British gov- ernment succeeded in fishing up plate, pearls and jewels, amounting in value to three hundred thousand pounds sterling, with which he sailed to England in 1687. He ob- tained by his enterprise sixteen thousand pounds, and the honor of knighthood. He returned to Bos- ton in 1G90, and commanded the expedition against Port Royal, which place he captured. When the new charter of Massachu- setts was obtained he was appointed the first governor under it. He ar- rived at Boston, as governor, in 1()92. In 1694, in a dispute with the col- lector of the port. Sir William so far forgot his dignity as to descend to blows. He was removed from otfice, and returned to England. He received assurance of being re- stored, but before that event hap- pened he died, in 1695, aged 44. Phipsburgh has considerable trade and navigation. Ship build- ing is pursued, and fishing is a. source of profit. There is no bet- ter site for fishing establishments on the coast. It is a very pleasant town, and an agreeable location to court the sea breezes in summer. Piermont, X. H., Grafton co., is bounded N. by Plavcrhill. It is 65 miles N. N. W. from Concord. The .soil, especially on the Connecticut, is good. The meadows, or intervales, are extensive, and in some instan- es highly cultivated. The mead- ows are composed of sandy loam, in some places inclined to marie, and arc favorable to the growth of wheat, corn and every kind of grain. Back from the river the town is made up of swells of fine grazing and mowing land, well watered with brooks and springs. In the N. E. part of the town are three consid- erable ponds, called Eastman's ponds. From these ponds issues Eastman's brook, which, passing in a S. E. direction, falls into Connec- ticut river, forming a number of excellent mill scats. Indian brook, on which mills are erected, is in the S. part. The settlement commenc- ed in 1770. Population, in 1830, 1,042. Pilot Mountain, IV. II. See Kilkenny. Piscataqita River, N. H. The only large river whose entire course is in New Hampshire, is formed by the junction of several NEAV ENGLAND GAZETTEER. small streams in a wide and deep bed ; hollowed out partly by them, and partly by the tide. The names of these streams, beoinning at the northeast, are Salmon Fall, Coche- co, Bellamy bank, Oyster, Lamprey, Squamscnt, and Winnicut rivers. The five last unite their waters in a large and irregular bay between Durham and Greenland, more re- sembling a lake than a river. The waters of this bay meet those of Salmon Fall and Cocheco rivers, coming from the northwest at Hil- ton's point, a few miles below Do- ver. After this junction, they pro- ceed in a direct line to the south- east ; and join the ocean 2 or 3 miles below Portsmouth; embosoming several islands, and forming one of the best harbors on the continent. Few rivers make a more magnifi- cent appearance than this ; yet the sti'cams by which it is supplied are small. Salmon P\ill furnishes more than all the rest. This stream is called JSTewichawannock from the falls in Berwick till it receives the waters of the Cocheco ; but the name of Piscataqua ought to be ap- plied to the whole of Salmon Fall river. Piscataquis River, Me. The head waters of this river are found in the high lands which sep- arate the waters of Penobscot and Kennebec rivers. Its length is about 65 miles, passing in a course nearly east. It has many tiibutaries, of which Sebec and Pleasant rivers, and Seboois stream, from the north, are the largest. In its course it fertilizes large tracts of country, and gives to the towns through which it passes a good hydraulic power. Piscataquis County, Me. JJoDfr, chief town. This county was incorporated, March 23, 1838. Its territory is thus described in the act of incorporation, to wit : " That from and after the last day of Api'il next, all that portion of territory lying north of the south lines of Parkman and Wellington, in the county of Somerset, and lying north of the north lines of the towns of Dexter, Garland, Charleston, Bradford, and south line of Kilmar- nock, in the county of Penobscot; and bounded east by the east lines of Milton, Kilmarnock and townships numbered four in the eighth and ninth ranges ; and thence bounded east by a line running north from the northeast corner of said town- ship numbeied four, in the ninth range, to the north line of the state ; and bounded on the west by the west lines of Wellington, Kings- bury, Shirley, and township number two in the fifth range ; and thence bounded west by a line running noi-th fiom the northwest corner of said township number two, to the Kennebec river; thence up and by the southerly bank of said river to Moose Head lake ; thence bounded westerly by the westeily margin of said lake, to the northwest angle of said lake — and thence bounded west by a line running north, to the noith line of the state — be and the same is hereby constituted and made a county by the name of," &c. This county is therefore bounded N. W.and N. by the British pos- sessions in Lowei- Canada, E. by the county of Penobscot, S. by the counties of Penobscot and Somer- set, and W. by Somerset county. There are numerous lakes and ponds in the county, the largest of which are the Moose Head, Chesuncook and Pemadurncook. The county is crossed by the Piscataquis, Penob- scot and Walloomstook rivers, but most of its excellent mill streams, of which there are many, rise with- in the county, from its own natural sources. There are some consider- able elevations, the largest of which is Katalulin Mountain. The char- acter of the surface and soil of Pis- cataquis county is generally that of NKW ENGLAND GAZETTEER Penobscot and Somerset counties, from which it was) taken. Piscataquog Iliver, N. II., Is formed of two principal branch" es, one from Francestown, the othe'" from Hennikcr and Deerins;, which unite and form the main .streain near the W. line of Goftsfown. It pur- sues a southeasterly course through GofT^town and thi; N. E. corner of Bedford, where it falls into Merri- mack river. Piscataquog Villagk, on this river and near its mouth, is a thriving and ])leasant village, situ- ate in the N. E. part of IJedford. A handsome bridge is constructed over the Piscataquog, in this village, 60 feet in length. Since the Union Canal commenced operation, the boating business to this place has been carried on with much success. On the S. side of the liver, below this village, is a public landing- place, extending to llie Merrimack, and from this place lumber of all descriptions from the circumjacent country, is conveyed down the riv- er to market by rafts and boats to Newburyport,and through the Mid- dlesex canal to Cbarlestown and Boston. The rise and present nour- ishing appearance of this village is owing in a great measure to the enterprise and industry of William Parker and Isaac Riddle, esquires, who were the first to commence the mercantile business in tliis place. Pittsfleld, Me. Somerset co. This is a town of excellent soil, and a branch of Se- basticook river rises in the S. E. corner. The inhabitants arc gen- erally good and thriving farmers. Pittstield was incorporated in 1819. Wheat crop, IS.'i?, 4,S69 bushels. Population, 1830, 609 ; IS37, 836. .It lies 38 miles N. N. E. from Au- gusta, and 20 E. from Norridgewock. Pittsfield, ]V. II. Merrimack co. The surface of Pittstield is pleasantly varied, with a good soil. Suncook river passes through the town, aflbrding good mill privileges. Catamount moun- tain stretches across the S. E. partoi the town, from the summit of which delightful views are obtained. There are a number of ponds in the town ; west of which the magnetic-needle varies materially. Beriy's pond is on the mountain : — it is half a mile in length, and is supplied by mountain springs. There is a neat ;iud tlour- isliing village in Pittstield ; a large cotton mill, a scythe factory, and an academy. Thistown was first settled in 1784. Population, 1830, 1,271. It is 16 miles N. E. from Concord. Pittsfield, Vt. Rutland co. Tweed river is form- ed in this town, by two branches, which afford mill seats: it empties into While river, which passes thi'ough the N. E. corner. The surface of the town is mountainous, and the soil hard. Pittsfield was first settled in 1786. Population, 1830, 505. It lies 35 miles S. S. W. from Montpelier, and 17 N. E. from Rutland. Pittsfield, Mai^s. Berkshire co. This large manu- factui'ing and agricultural town, a mart of trade for a large section of country, lies 125 miles W. froni BosTon, 5 N. from Lenox, and 33 E. from Albany, N. Y. Po[)ulation, 1837, 3,575. The settlement of this place, the Indian Pnntoosuck, was commenced in 1736. It was incorporated in 1761. It was a fron- tier town for some years, and garri- sons were erected tor the protection of the inhaiiitants against the in- roads of the savages. The town is finely watered by two branches of the Housatonick, which unite near its centre. There are in Pittsfield NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. 6 woolen and 2 cotton mills, and manufactures of muskets, iron cast- ings, tin ware, leather, hats, car- riages, prunella buttons, chairs, corn brooms, cabinet ware, &c. ; total amount, the year ending April 1,1837, $(>S8,71(). The value of 12,962 fleeces of wool sheared in the town the same year, was $19,443. Pittsfield is one of the pleasantest towns in New England : it lies 1,000 feet above the level of the sea, in a fertile valley between the Taughkannick and Green moun- tain ranges. The village is well located, and contains many beauti- ful buildings, which, with the tine scenery and well cultivated farms that surround it, presents a great variety to charm the eye and to gratify the taste of the intelligent agriculturalist. There arc in Pittsfield a medical institution, a female academy, &c., which will be noticed in the Reg- ister. Pittsford, Vt. Rutland co. Otter creek mean- ders through this very pleasant and flourishing town, nearly in its cen- tre, and fertilizes a large part of its territory. Furness river afibrds the town good privileges, on which are large iron works and other man- ufactories. Iron ore of a very fine quality, and elastic marble, are abundant; also, the oxide of man- ganese. The agricultural produc- tions are valuable. In 18:>7 there were in the town 12, .368 sheep. A female child was born here in 1784, who died at the age of 9 years, and weighed 200 pounds. Pittsford was first settled about the year 1770. — It was a frontier town for a num- ber of years. The remains of Fort Vengence are still vi-^ible. This town lies 44 miles S. W. from Mont- pelier, and 8 N. from Rutland. — Population, 1830, 2,00.5. Pittston, Me. Kennebec co. Pittston is a pleas- ant town, on the east side of Ken- nebec river, opposite to Gardiner; 7 miles .S. by E. from Augusta. It is a floui-ishing town, of good soil, and has several ponds and mill streams, and a considerable busii»es3 in the lumber trade. Incorporated, 1779. Population, 1837, 2,121.— Wheat crop, same year, 2,231 bush- els. Plaiiifleld, ]V. H., Sullivan co., lies on Connecticut river. It is 12 miles S. fiom Dart- mouth college, and N. W. 55 from Concord. There is considerable valuable intervale, on Connecticut river, and in other parts are excel- lent meadows. There are two ponds. At the S. W. part of this town, in Coriuecticut river, is Hart's island, which contains 19 acre-;. — VV'aterquecchy falls are in this town. A bridge was ei-ected here in 1807. A small stream, flowing fiom Croy- don mountains, waters the town. — Plainfield lias a ph-asant village, situated on a handsome plain, thiough the centre of whicli the street passes N. and S. On a pleas- ant eminence in Meriden parish is located " The Union Academy," in- corporated June 16, 1813. It is en- dowed with a permanent fund of ,$40,000, the liberal bequest of the late Hon. Daniel Kimball, the interest of which, as directed by his last will, is to be applied as fol- lows, viz: $150 annually to the support of a Calvini^tic preacher, and the remainder for the instruc- tion of pious young men for tlie ministry. This seminary is in a flourishing condition. Plainfield was granted in 1761, and was settled in 1764. Population, 18.30, 1,581. PlaiJifield, Vt. Washington co. First settled, 1794. Population, 1830, 874. it lies 8 miles E. from Montpelier, and 21 from Newbury. At the junc- tion of Onion river and Great brook, in this town, is a neat village with NKW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. some niaiuif;ictiirin2; operations by wat(M-. There is a iiiiiier;il sjjrin;:; in the town of some note, and a line trout pond. The soil is generally of a £;ood quality, and feeds about 3,000 sheep. Plaiufii'ld, 7Iass. Hampshire co. This town is elevated on the Green mountain j-ange, at the N. W. corner of the county, and watered by the upper branches of Westtield river. — Altliough the surface is rough and mountainous, yet the soil is excel- lent for pasturage, and produces some fine cattle. In 1837, the fleeces of 0.772 sheep, sheared in this town, were valued at .•?!5,37!). There are 2 woolen mills, and manufactures of boots, shoes, leather, |)alm-leaf hats, chairs, cabinet ware,ii.c ; total an- nual value about ifi 10,000. Piain- tield lies 110 miles W. by N. from Boston, and 20 N. V»'. from North- ampton. Incorporated, 17^.5. Pop- ulation, 1837, 865. Plaiiiflcltl, Ct. Win^Iham co. Moo-Iiddletov/n. The maritime situation of the town affords the people great facilities for the fisheries, wliich, with a fine soil, and industi-y, give them a great degree of independence. A number one called are attached to this town, of which the beautiful and fertile island of Piudence is the largest. It is six miles in length, and about three quarters of a mile average width. In this town are the Rhode Island coal mines, which are not worked at the present time. A fine bed of plumbago has recently been discovered. Portsmouth fur- nishes considerable quantities of wool, hay, grain, vegetables, and productions of the dairy. In 1837 there were 16,000 sheep in the town. Population, 1830, 1,727. Portsmouth lies 6 miles N. N. E. from Newport. A stone bridge, 1,000 feet in length, connects it with Tiverton. It received its char- ter from Charles II., in 1663. Ponltiiey, Vt. Rutland co. The surface of this town is pleasantly diversified ; the soil is warm and productive, partic- ulaidy on the borders of the river. First settled, 1771. Population, 1830, 1,909. There are two flourishing villages in the town, and manufac- tures of various sorts. The pro- ductions of the soil are considera- ble, and 12,000 sheep are kept. It lies 60 miles S. AV. from Montpe- lier, and 13 S. \V. from Rutland. Poultney river, rising in the high lands near Middletown, and emp- tying into East bay, an arm of Champlain lake, is about 25 miles in length, and in its course affords numerous valuable mill sites. This stream changed its course in 1783, by cutting a channel of 100 feet in depth through a ridge of land near the bay, and destroying the navi- gation of the bay for a time, by nearly filling it with earth. This obstruction has been removed. Po-»vnal, Me. Cumberland co. This is a small town, of good soil, and bounded N. by Durham. It lies 35 miles S. W. from Augusta, and 19 N. from Port- land. Incorporated, 1808. Popular tion, 1837, 1,232. Po-»vMal, Vt. Bennington co. First settled, 1761. Population, in 1830, 1,835. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Pownal lies 30 miles W. by S. from Brattleborou£;h, and 8 S. from Hcn- nington. The surface is broken and hilly, but the soil is strong and re- markably well adapted lor grass, producing all the varieties of the dai- ry in great abundance and of an ex- cellent quality. The number of sheep kept in this town is about 8,000. Pownal is watered by Hoo- sack and Walloomsac rivers, wliich produce a good water power. The village is very pleasant. Powo^v River. Powow river has its principal source in Great and Country ponds in Kingston, N. II., and passes over the S. W. part of East Kingston in- to South Hampton ; thence into Amesbury, Mass., where it turns E. into South Hampton again, and returns into Amesbury, falling into the Merrimack between Salisbury and Amesbury. There are several falls in this river ; those in Ames- bury being the most remarkable, the water falling 100 feet in the dis- tance of 50 rods, and presenting, with the variety of machinery and dams, houses and scenery on the falls, one of the most interesting views in the country. Prescott, Jtla^s. Hampshire co. The surface of this town is rough and hilly. The principal manufacture consists of palm-leaf hats, of which about 50,000 are annually made. The soil is better for grazing than tillage. Prescott lies 76 miles W. from Hos- ton, and 16 N. E. from Northamp- ton. Taken from Pelham in 1822. Population, 1837, 783. Preston, Ct. New London co. This is an ir- regular, uneven, rocky town, of a pretty good soil for corn and grazing. It is bounded W. and N. by the Thames and Quinnohaug rivers : 44 miles E. S. E. from Hartford. First settled, 1686. Population, 1830, 29 1,93.5. Poquetannuck, an ancient village, lies partly in Preston and partly in Lcdyard. It has a water power, and small vessels pass within a short distance of it. Many of the inhabitants are employed in naviga- tion, and considerable ship timber is taken fi-om there down tlie river. Preston City lies in the eastern part of the town, 5 miles E. from Poquetannuck, and 6 E. fi-om Nor- wich. Near this village is "Amos lake," a haiulsome sheet of water, and a place of resort for parties of pleasure. Presumpscut River, Me. This is the outlet of Sebago lake. It passes through parts of Gorham and Wcstbrook, and falls into Casco bay at Falmouth, G miles N. from Portland. Princeton, Itle. Washington co. Population, in 1837, 207. See "Down East." Princeton, Mass. Worcester co. This town, the Indian IVachusett, is pleasantly situated at the base of the moun- tain of that name, 45 miles W. by N. from Boston, and 16 N. by W. from Worcester. Incorporated, 175S. Population, 1837, 1,267. This is a township of good land, and produces considerable quantities of beef, butter, cheese, &c. It is watered by a branch of the Nashua, and has some manufactures. V/achusett is 2,990 feet in height ; it is the high- est land in the county, and presents a landscape exceedingly variegated and beautiful. It is a place much frequented in summer months. The manufactures of the town consist of .shoes, leather, palnn-leaf hats, chairs, and cabinet ware : an- nual amount, about .$50,000. Prospect, Me. Waldo CO. This is a beautiful town, of good soil, on the west side of Penobscot river. It is bounded NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. on the S. by Belfast bay ; 52 miles E. by N. from Augusta, 12 N. N. E. from Belfast, and 18 S. from Bangor. Prospect is very flourishing in its commercial and agricuUural pursuits. Population, 1830, 2,oSl ; 1837, 3,198. Incorporated, 1794. Wheat crop, 1837, 4,41(j bushels. Prospect, Ct. New Haven co. This stony and mountainous town was taken from Cheshire and Waterbury,in 1827. It derived its name from its elevat- ed situation. There is a pretty village in the town. The inhabit- ants are chiefly farmers. It lies 17 miles N. by W. from New Ha- ven. Population, 1830, (J51. Some difficulty arose in the con- gregational society in this town a few years since, in consequence of the minister and a number of the influential members of the church having adopted the sentiments of the Perfectionists. The stray sheep, however, soon returned to the fold again. See Religious Creeds and Statistics. Providence County, R. I. Providence, chief town. This ancient and respectable county is boundedN.and E. by Massachusetts, S.by the county of Kent, and W. by Connecticut. It contains an area of 381 square miles. Population, 1820, 35,736 ; 1S30, 47,018. Pop- ulation to a square mile, 124. The surface of the county is generally uneven ; some sections of it presents rugged features, but no part of it is mountainous. The soil is vari- ous : some portions of the county are alluvial, some calcareous loam, and some of sileceous sand ; but a strong gravelly loam generally prevails. More attention is paid to agricul- ture in this county than formerly ; good crops of corn, barley and i-ye are obtained, and all the varieties of the dairy, of fruits and vegeta- bles are abundant for the supply of its numerous villages and the city. The commercial interests of tiie county are important, but are prin- cipally conlined to the flourishing city of Providence; but the manu- facturing interests, particularly of cotton, are extended throughout the county, and engrosses a large share of its enterprize and capital. While the Pawtucket, Pawtuxet, Mashan- ticut, Pochasset, Wonasquatucket, and other streams, give those inter- ests a constant operative power, the numerous beautiful villages erected on their borders testify that Provi- dence county is one of the most im- portant manufactuiing districts iu the new world. A statistical account of the resour- ces of this county, and of all the counties and towns in Rhode Isl- and, is in preparation, and will ap- pear in the Register. Providence, R. I. Chief town. Providence co. Rog- er Williams was the founder of this beautiful city. He was banished from the Massachusetts colony for maintaining that all denominations of christians were equally entitled lo the protection of the civil mag- isti'ate ; that the church of England was no true church, and that a patent fi-om the king conveyed no title to the soil. In 1636, Mr. Williams, accompa- nied by William Harris, John Smith, Joshua Virrin, Thomas An- gell, and Francis Wickes, commenc- ed a settlement and called it Prov- idence ; regarding his preservation as a favorable interposition of heav- en. Mr. Williams sustained the two-fold character of a minister of the gospel and governor of the col- ony ; he formed a constitution on the broad principle of civil and re- ligious libeity,and thus established the first free government on the continent of America. Mr. Wil- liams was a man of learning, and set a bright example of that tolera- tion which he demanded from oth- NI.W ENGLAND GAZETTEEk. ers. He was born in Wales, in 1599, and died in IGS-'J. Providcnre siiirorcd great losses in kinor Pliilip's war, aiui during the revolutionary coutc-it it furnish- ed its full proportion of troop-i, and partook largely of the sufferings as well as of the glory of that struggle. On the 9th of June, 1772, the king's ship Gaspee was taken pos- session of and burned, and the com- mander, Lieutenant Duddingston, wounded with a niusket ball, in the ihigh. Only one of the persons en- gaged in taking the Gaspee is now living — Col. Ephraini iJowen, of Providence. Thus it appears, that in that con- test, the first blood wa^ shed at Providence ; but the first American blood and life was sacrificed at Lexington, Mass., on the 19th of April, 1775, and the first British life, on the same day, a few liours after, at Concord, Massachusetts. Providence f()rniei-ly comprised the territory of a number of the neighboring towns. Its present limits contain an area of about nine square miles. It was incorporated as a town in ln4:), and as a city in 18.31. Population, in 1820, 11,767; 1830, 16,832; 1S36, 19,277. The most compact part of the city is di- vided into two nearly equal parts, on both sides of Providence river, and are connected liy wide and sub- stantial bridges. The two princi- pal streets are long and irregular, and comprise tlie business portion of the city, with the exception of a long range of large and handsome brick ware houses on the east side of the rivei-. The buildings in oth- er parts of the city are constructed with taste, and many of them in a style of superior elegance. On the east side of the river the land rises abruptly. On this elevation are a number of streets running parallel with the river, on the summit of which is located Brown Univei-sity, established here in 1770. From the beautiful buildings on these stieets, delightful views are obtain- ed of a great extent of country, of the city, the shipping in the river, and of Providence and Narraganset bays. There are in Providence a large number of handsome churches, and other public buildings. The Ar- cade is one of the most beautiful buildings in the country. It is sit- uated on the west side of the river, and fronts on two streets. It is built of stone, 222 feet in length, and 72 feet in width. The fronts are ornamented, each with six mas- sive columns, 25 feet high, the shafts of which are single blocks, 22 feet in length. The lower part of this building is improved for dry goods shops, &c. ; the upper stories for oifices, library rooms, &c. It was completed in 1828, and cost ,"«(l;)0,0()0. The architecture of this building is exceedingly chaste. Pi'ovidence has long been cele- brated for the commercial spirit of its citizens, and for their large in- vestments of capital in foreign com- merce, particularly with India. It is still a floui-ishing mart of foreign trade ; the tonnage of the port, in 1S37, was 17,526 tons. Much of the capital of the city has, howev- er, of late years, been diverted to the pursuit of domestic manufac- tures ; a pursuit probable of greater profit, and no less patriotic. Besides the large capital employ- ed by the citizens of Providence in manufacturing estal)lishments with- out the city, the capital thus employ- ed within it is veiy great. Those manufactures consist of cotton goods, (by steam power,) machinery, steam engines, vessels, jewelry, copper, brass, iron and tin wares, glass, combs, oil, soap, candles, liats, leather, boots, shoes, and numerous other articles. About 4,000 of the people of Providence are engaged in these manufactures. The public schools in Providence are well sustained. The sura of about $10,000 is annually appropri- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ated lo this object. The number of scholars, in 1837, was 1626. A high school has recently been es- tablished, and $40,000 appropriated for the erection of new school hous- es. The athena3um library con- tains 7,000 volumes. It was incor- porated in 1836. Sec Register. Providence is approached with great ease from almost every direc- tion. The roads are generally ex- cellent : that to Pawtucket is une- qualled by any in New England. The Blackstone canal, after wind- ing its course through a fertile and manufacturing country, from Wor- cester, Mass., terminates at tide wa- ter in the centre of the city. .Steam boats, of superior construction and elegant accommodations, ply be- tween this city and New York, daily. Rail road cars between Bos- ton and Stonington cross the lower part of the city several times a day, and steam boats and packets are con- tinually passing to and fi-om the several important towns on the shores of Narraganset and Mount Hope bays. Providence has frequently sus- tained heavy losses by tire, and once by water. In 1815, during the memorable gale of Scptembei' 23d, the tide rose 12 feet higlicr than the common high tides, and spread ruin to the buildings, navi- gation, wharves and bridges in eve- ry direction. The loss sustained by this flood was estimated at a million and a half of dollars. Providence lies at the head of ship navigation on Pi-ovidence riv- er, the most northei-n waters of Narraganset bay ; 35 miles from the sea, 40 S. W. from Boston, 169 N. E. by E. from New York, and 396 N. E. from Washington. N. lat. 41° 49' 32", W. Ion. 71° 24' 45". Proviiicetown, Mass. Barnstable co. A noted fishing town on the extreme point of Cape Cod; including Race point, which lies 3 miles N. W. from Province- town village. It comprises Cape Cod, or Provincetown harbor, which opens on the S. This ocean harbor is very large, exceedingly easy of acces-ii, and has sufficient depth of water for the largest ships of war. This is the first harbor the "Mayflov/er" touched at on her passage to Plymouth in 1620. An elaborate and highly interest- ing report of a survey of this har- bor and the extremity of Cape Cod, by Major J. D. Graham, has recent- ly been printed by order of con- gress. The report is accompanied by a series of tables, showing the result of a long course of observations on the tide, which are not only curi- ous, but may be useful to those who are in a situation for pursuing their speculations on this subject, by comparing them with the results of similar observations in other places. The fullness and precision of these tables indicate the care and labor with which the work has been prosecuted. The result is of a na- ture to show the great importance of this position, both as a naval and commercial station. The value of Cape Cod harbor to our naval and mercantile marine in time of war is inappreciable. In possession of an cneni}", it would af- ford facilities for annoying our commerce, without exposure to the gales that so often sweep along the coast. Fortified, and in the occu- pancy of a portion of our navy, it ofTers a secure retreat, accessible at ail seasons, and sheltered from eve- ry storm. The soil of this town, in common with many others on Cape Cod, is very sandy; indeed, it may be said to possess no soil, for its vegetable qualities are very deficient. During the year ending April 1st, 1837, there were belonging to Provincetown, 2 vessels employed in the whale, and 98 in the cod and mackerel fishery, besides a large number in the freighting business. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. The value of fish and oil taken was $298,407. Hands ciiiploycci, 1,113. Durino; that year 43,9tiO l)u>licls oC salt were made, employing lo(j hands, the value of which was $18,360. Provinccfown lies 50 miles N. E. from Banntablc, by land, and 50 E. S. E. fiom Hostoii, by water. Incorporated, 1727. Pop- ulaUon, 1S30, 1,710; 1337,2,049. Putney, Vt. Windham co. This town is fine- ly located on the west side of Con- necticut river, and embosoms a large tract of excellent intervale land, called the "Great Meai!ows."There is also a good tract of intervale on Sacket's brook, a fine mill stream, with beautiful falls, on which are erected valuable mills for the manu- facture of woolen goods, paper, and various other ailieles. Sacket's brook i-; a large and constant stream: it falls 150 feet in the course of 100 rods. Some of the mill sites are unoccupied. There are various mineral sub=;tnncc3 in the town, worthy of the notice of the geolo- gist. The village is pleasant, and bears the marks of taste and pros- perity. It lies 9 miles E. from Newfanc, and 9 N. from iJrattlc- borough. First settled, 1754. Pop- ulation, 1S30, 1,.'310. PusUaw L.a!£c, HIc. This lake lies in the towns of Orono, Dutton and Kirkland, Pe- nobscot county. It is about S miles long, and one mile wide. It emp- ties into Dead stream, which meets the Penobscot at Orono. Quccchy Kivcr, Vt., Sometimes called Waterquccchy, rises in Sherburne, runs nearly east to the south part of Rridgewater ; thence through Woodstock into the south part of Hartford, and thence •oiitheast through the noilheast cor- ner of Hartland into Connecticut river, about two miles a!;ove Qiico- chy falls. Ill Bridgewatcr it ro- ceives two considerable branches, namely, north branch, which rises in the norlh part of this township fioui the norlh, and south branch, which rises in Plymouth, from the south, both considerable mill sti'cams. In Woodstock it receives two other branches of considerable size ; one rising in the northeast cornerof Hridgewater and southeast cornoi- of I'arnard, falls into Quee- chy river from the north just below the noi-th village in Woodstock, or " Woodstock Green,''' the other rising in the soulii part of Wood- stock, paj^ses through both the vil- lages in that town, and empties into it from the south just above the mouth of the last mentioned stream. Both these sti-eains afford excellent mill seats. Queccliy river in its course receives numerous other tiibuiarics of less note. It is a clear and lively stream, with a grav- el or stony bottom. This stream is about 35 miles in length, and wa- tcis about 212 square miles. Q,tiiiicy, Mass. Norfolk CO. The territory of Quincy was a part of ancient Brain- tree, until 1792. It lies on Brain- tree or Quincy bay, in Boston har- bor, and is bounded on the N. W. by Ncpon=iot river and the town of Milton. It is 8 miles S. by E. from Boston, and 10 E. by S. from Ded- hain. Population, 1S20, 1,623; 1830, 2,192; 18:;7, 3,049. The suiface of (he town is diver- sified by hills, valleys and plains. Back from the bay about 3 miles is a range of elevated land, in soma parts more than fiOO feet above the sea, containing an inexhaustible supply of granite. This is the source of the " Quincy Granite," a building material justly celebrated ii\ all our cities for its durability and beauty. Vast quantities of this admirable stone are annually quarried and wrought in this vicin- ity by (he most skillful workmen, into all dimensions, both plain and NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ornamental ; and it is fortunate for the public that the supply is abun- dant, for the demand for it from va- rious parts of the United States is constant and increasing. By means of a rail-road from these quarries to the tide waters of Ne- ponset river, and of a canal to the centre of the town, this stone is transported with great expedition and little cost. There are large quantities of slate stone near Ne- ponset river; much of which is quari'ied. These slate quarries bear indications of coal in their vicinity. In this town, between Quincy and Dorchester bays, is a point of land called Squantuni, celebrated as having been the residence of the famous Indian Sachem, C'/(/cA"a^a».- hut. This place is the Mos-ioetu- set, " a few miles south of Boston," supposed by some to have origin- ated the name of the state. Squan- tum is a rocky, romantic place, six miles south of Boston, and a pleas- ant resort for fishing and bathing. The soil of Quincy is generally of aai excellent quality and under good cultivation. There are large tracts of salt meadow in the town, and many large and beautiful farms, which, in respect to soil and skillful management, may vie with any in the state. The Mount Wallaston farm is noted as the site of an early settle- ment (1625,) and as the Merry Mount of Thomas Morton and his associates. This farm, with that of his venerated father, now belong to the Hon. Mr. Adams, representative to Congress. The ancestral estate of the Quincy family comprises one of the most beautiful and well cul- tivated farms in New England. It is the property of Josiah Quin- cy, LL. D., an eminent agricul- turist, and president of Harvard University. The village, in the centre of the town, is situated on an elevated plain, and is remarkable for its neat- ness and beauty. In this village is a stone church, designated the "Ad- ams Temple." This building was dedicated, 1828, and cost $40,000. Within its walls is a beautiful niar- blc monument to the memory of the Hon. John Adains and his wife. About two miles east from the village is Quincy Point, at the junction of Town and Weymouth Fore rivers. This is a delightful spot, and contains some handsome buildings. This point of land, with a peninsula near it called German- town, are admirably located for ship building, and for all the pur- poses of navigation and the fishery. Here is a fine harbor, a bold shore and a beautiful country, within 10 miles of the capital of New Eng- land. The manufactures of Quincy con- sist of stone, slate, vessels, salt, leather, boots, shoes, hats, coach lace, carriages, harnesses, bleached bees wax, &.c. Total value, the year ending April 1, 1S37,$470,222. During tliat period there were 10 vessels engaged in the cod and mackerel fishery ; the product of which was $31,042. Quincy is a place of considerable trade. Large quantities of luraber, bread stuffs, &,c., arc annually sold. The proximity of Quincy to Bos- ton, the excellent roads and bridg- es connecting it with the city and surrounding country, the beauty of the town, with the delightful scen- ery around it, render it a desirable residence in summer, and a pleas- ant home. Quincy was named in honor of Col. John Quincy, a native of the place, who for forty successive vears was a member of (lie execu- tive council of the colony, and dis- charged many other j)ublic trusts with zeal and fidelity. He died Ju- ly i:], 1767, aged 78'. This has been the birth place and residence of some of the most distinguished sons of America. — NEW ENGLAND CAZETTEER. The names of the patriots, Jo>in Hancock and JoiiAii Quincy, Jr., will live until the death ol'lib- erty. Two presidents of the United States, father and son, wci-e natives of this place. Johx Adams, born October 19, 1735. Joh.v Quijvcy Adams, hern July 11, 17o7. The senior Mi-. Adams gratlnftted at Harvard University, in 17)5, and was distinguished for bis diligence and genius. He studied law at Worcester, and was admitted to practice in 175S. He coinsiienced the labors of his profes ion in Brain- tree, liis native town, and soon ob- tained business and reputation. In 1761, Mr. Adams marricil Miss Ab- igail Sniitli, a grand dau^jbter of Col. Quincy, a lady as tiisun'^uidj- cd for her accomplishments and virtues as for the elevated station in society which Providence had destined her to fill. Mrs. Adams died at Quincy, Dec. 28, ISIS, aged 74. In 17()5, Mr. Adams removed to Boston ; here he obtained an ex- tensive legal practice, and, refusing all offers of patronage from tiie British governiiient, espoused the cause of his native country vviih an ardor peculiar to himself, tirnily i-e- eolved to sink or swim with its lib- erties. He was elected a mcmbjr of Congress, and was among tbo foremost in recommending the adoption of an independent govern- ment. In 1777 Mr. Adams was cho- sen commissioner to the Court of Versailles. In 1779 he was i;ppoint- ed minister plenii)otentiary to nego- tiate a peace and a commercial trea- ty with Great Britain. In 17S0 he went embassador to Holland, and in 1782 to Paris, to negotiate a treaty of peace with Great Britain, having received the assurance that that power would recognize the indepen- dence of the United States. In 1785 Mr. Adams was appointe»I the first minister to the court of St. James. After remaining in Europe nine years, he returned to his native country, and in 1789 was elected first Vice President of the United States, whicli olhce he held during the whole of Wasliington's admiinstration. On the resignation of Was]nngton,in 1797, Mr. Adams l)ecame President of the United States, which olhce lie sustained until the election of Mr. Jeficrson, in 1801. Soon after this, Mr. Adams retired to his farm at Quincy, and spent the remainder of an eventful life in rui'al occupations, the pleas- ures of domestic retirement, and those enjoyments which a great and good mind always has in store. The account that Mr. Adams gives in a letter to a fi-iend, of his introduction to George HI., at the court of St. James, as the first niin- i^ter from the rebel colonies, is very interesting. The scene would form a no!)le picture, highly honorable both to his majesty and the repub- lican minister. Mere stood the stern monarch, who had expended more than six bundled millions of dollars, and the lives of two hundred thousand of his subjects in a vain attempt to subjugate freemen; and by his side stood the man, who, in the language of Je/TkU'son, " was the great pillar of support to the declaration of in- dependence, and its ablest advo- cate and champion on the floor of Congress." Mr. Adams says," At one o'clock on Wednesday, the first of June, 1735, the master of ceremonies call- ed at my house, and went with me to the secretary of state's office, in Cleaveland row, where the marquis of Carmarthen received and intro- duced me to Mr. Frazier, his un- der secretary, who had been, as his lordship said, uninterruptedly in that o-ficc through all the changes in administration for thirty years. After a short conversation, Lord Carmarthen invited me to go with him in his coach to court. When we arrived in the antechamber the master of the ceremonies introduc- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ed liim and attended me while tlie secietary of slate went to take the commands of the king. While I stood in this place, where it seems all ministers stand upon sueh occa- sions, always attended by the mus- ter of ceremonies, the loom was very full of ministers of state, bish- ops and all other sorts of conrtiers, as well as the n^xt room, which is the king's bed chamber. You niay well suppose I was the focus of all eyes. I was n^iicved, however, from the embairassment of it, by the Swedish and Dutch ministei-s, who came to me and entertained me with a very agreeblc conver- sation during the wliolc time. Some other gentlemen whom I had seen before, came to make their com- pliments to me iinlil the marquis of Carmarthen i-etui-ncd, and desired me to go with him to his majesty. I went with his lordship through the levee room into the king's closet. The dooj- was shut, and I was left with his majesty and the secretary of state alone. 1 made the three reverences: — one at the door, anothei- about half way, and another before the presence, accord- ing to the usage established at this and all the northern courts of Eu- rope, and then I addressed n-.yself to his majesty in the following words : ' Sire : The United Slates have ap- pointed me minister plenipotentiary to your majesty, and have directed me to deliver (o your majesty this letter, whicli contains the evidence of it. It is in obedienc to their ex- press commands, that I have the honor to assure your majesty of their unanimous disposition and de- sire to cultivate the most friendly and liberal intercourse between youj- majesty's subjects and their citi- zens, and of their best wishes tor your majesty's health and happi- ness, and for that of your family. ' The appointment of a minister from the United States to youi- ma- jesty's court will form an epoch in the history of England and Ameri- ca. I think myself more fortunate than all my fellow citizens, in hav- ing the distinguished honor to be the first to stand in your majesty's royal presence in a diplomatic char- acter ; and I shall esteem myself the happiest of men if I can be in- strumental in recommending my country more and more to your ma- jesty's roj'al benevolence, and of i-esioring an entire esteem, confi- dence and afieclion ; or, in better words, ' the old good nature and the good old hunior,' between people who, though separated by an ocean, and under different governments, have the same language, a similar i-eligion, a kindred blood. I beg your majesty's permission to add, that although I have somelimes be- fore been instructed by my country, it was never in my whole life in a manner so agreeable to myself.' The king listened to every word I said, with dignity, it is true, but with apparent emotion. Whether it was my visible agitation, for I felt more than 1 could express, that touched him, I cannot say; but he was much affected, and answered me with more tremor than I had spoken with, and said : — " Sir: The circumstances of this audience are so extraordinai-y, the language you have now held is so extremely proper, and the feelings you have discovered sojustly adapt- ed to the occasion that 1 not only receive with pleasure the assurance of the friencily disposition of the United States, but that I am glad the choice has fallen upon you to be their njinisfer. I wish you, sir, to believe and that it may be under- stood in America, tliat I have done nothing in the late contest but what I thought myself indespensibly bound to do, by the duty which I owed my people. I will be frank with you. I was the last to conform to the separation ; but the separa- tion having become inevitable, I have always said, as I now say, that NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. I would be the first to meet the friendship of the United States as an independent power. Tlie mo- ment I see such seutiinents and language as yours pi-evail, and a disposition to give tlii< country tlie preference, tliat nioiiicnt 1 shall say — let the circuinslances of language, religion, and hlooJ have their nat- ural full elVocf." I dare not say that these were the king's preci-ic words ; and it is even possible that I may have, in some particulars, mistaken his meaning ; for although his pronun- ciation is as distinct as I ever heard, he hesitated sonienines between members of the same period. He was, indeed, much affected, and I was not less so, and therefore I can- not be certain that 1 was so atten- tive, heard so clearly, and under- stood so perfectly, as to be confident of all his words, or sense. This I do say, that the foregoing is his ma- jesty's meaning, as I t'lcn under- stood it, and his own woi-ds, as near- ly as I can recollect them. The king then asked me whether I came la^t fro:n Franc:; ; and upon my answering in the ailirmative, he put on an air of familiarity, and, smiling, or rather laughing, said, 'There is an opinion among some people that you are not the most at- tached of all your countrymen to the manners of France.' I was surprised at this, because I thought it an indiscretion, and a descent from his dignity. I was a little em- barrassed; but determined not to deny truth on the one hand, nor lead him to infer from it any attach- ment to England, on the other, I threw oflf as much gravity as I could, and assumed an air of gaiety, and a tone of decision, as far as was decent, and said, ' That opinion, sir, is not mistaken : I must avow to your majesty, I have no attachment but to my own country.' The king replied as quick as lightning, ' An honest man will ne\er have any other.' Tlie king then said a word or two to the secretary of s.tate, which be- ing between them I did not hear, and tlien turned round and bowed to ine, as is customary with all kings and piinces when they give the sig- nal to retire. I retreated, stepping backwards, as is the etiquette ; and making my last reverence at the door of the chamber, I went to my carriage." INIr. Adams died on the 4th of Ju- ly, IS26, with the same words on his lips which fifty years before, on that day, he had uttered on the floor of Congress, " Independence forever." Q,uin.el>aug River. This beautiful stream rises in Mashapaugpond, in Union, Ct. It passes N. to Brimtield, Mass., then a S. E. course to Thompson, Ct., where it receives French river from the north. It then traverses a S. direction about 30 miles, affording fertility and a great hydraulic pow- er in its course, when it joins the Shetucket, near the city of Nor- wich, and takes the name of that river to the Yantic. These three streams form the Thames. Q,ui»ei>iaclc River, Ct. This river rises in Bristol and Farniington, and passes through Southington, Cheshire, Meriden, Wallingford, and falls into Long Island Sound at New Haven. This i-i a pleasant mountain stream, of considerable power, and about 30 miles in length. Q,uoddy Head, Me.; Or WestQuoddy Head, the west- ern entrance into Passamaquoddy bay. It is in N. lat. 44° 55', W. Ion. 66° 49'. It has a light house 45 feet in height. See Lubec and Eastport. Race Point, Mass. The N. W. extremity of Capo NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Cod. N. lat. 42° 6', W. Ion. 70° 7'. See Provincetown. Ragged Mountains, N. II., So called from their rough ap- pearance, lie between Andover and Hill, extending in a cliain about 10 miles from the Peniigevvasset to the vicinity of Kearsarge. It is a bleak and precipitous range, and is nearly 2,000 feet high, in its northern points. Xtail Roads in Nc-»v England. See Register. RandoIi>li, N. II. Coos CO. Until 1S24 this town was called Dur;ind. It is situated directly undei' the north end of the White mountains, its southeast cor- ner bounding on the base of Mount Madison, the east peak of the range. Branches of Israel's and Moose rivers pass through it. The soil is in some parts good, but the town in- creases slowly in its settlements. It was granted August 20, 1772, to John Durand and others, of Lon- don. Joseph Wilder and Stephen Jillson were the first settlers. Pop- ulation, 1830, 78. Randolph, Vt. Orange co. This is an elevated township of good soil, particularly for grazing. It is generally well improved, and produces good but- ter, cheese and mutton. Between twelve and thirteen thousand sheep graze in its pastures. It is well watered by branches of White river, on which ai-e two woolen mills and other manufac- tures. There are a number of flour- ishing business locations in the town : the centre village is very pleasant, and contains an academy of excellent reputation. This town was first settled about the year 1778. Population, 1830, 2,743. Randolph lies 23 miles S. from Montpelier, 9 S. W. from Chel- sea, and 34 N. N. W. from Wind- Randolpli, Mass. Norfolk CO. Randolph constitut- ed a part of ancient Braintree until 1793, when it was incorporated. It lies 14 miles S. from Boston, 12 S. E. from Dedham, and 7 S. S. W. from Braintree landing. Popula- tion, 1820, 1,546; 1830, 2,200; 1837, 3,041. Manatiquot river rises in the town, which, with other small streams, afford it a water pow- er. Punkapog pond lies in this town and Canton. The land is ele- vated between the waters of Mas- sachusetts bay and Taunton river; the surface is generally undulating and the soil sti-ong and productive. There are two very pleasant and flourishing villages in the town. East and West, surrounded by fertile and well cultivated fields. Randolph has long been noted for the industry of its people, in the manufacture of boots and shoes. During the year ending April 1st, 1837, there were made in the town 200,17.5 pairs of boots, and 470,620 pairs of shoes, valued at ^944,715, employing 1,47.5 hands. There are manufactures of leather, &.c. in the town, but that of boots and shoes is the principal. Rangely, Me. Franklin co. This town lies on the Androscoggin river, and at the outlet of Oquossack lake. It is about 40 miles N. W. from Farm- ington. See '■^Down East." Raymond, Me. Cumberland co. Raymond is watered by Crooked river, and sev- eral ponds. This is a good farming town, with two villages, and some trade. The inhabitants are princi- pally devoted to agricultui'al pur- suits. In 1837 the population was 1,802; wheat crop 3,203 bushels. Incorporated, 1S03. It lies 75 NEW en(;la\d gazetteer. miles S. W. from A(i2;iista and 22 N. N. W. from Portland. Raymond, N. H. Rockiiiffham co. This town lies 25 miles W. by S. from Portsmouth, 25 S. E. from Concord, 13 W. by N. from Exeter. Two branches of the Lamprey river, from Deer- field and Candia, unite in Ray- mond ; and the waters of two ponds also fall into this river as it passes through the town. The Patuckaway, from Nottingham, crosses the N. E. corner into Epping. The soil is various: that of the meadows bord- ering oa the river is productive. In the N. part of the town, about 100 rods from the principal road leading to Decrfield, neai- the summit of a hill about 100 feet high, is a natu- ral excavation in a ledgs, called the Oven, from the appearance of it3 moutli. It is a regular arch about 5 feet high and of the same width, extending into the hill about 15 feet, and terminating in a number of fissures. Raymond was originally that part of Chester call- ed Charming -fare. It was incor- porated in 1765, by its present name. The names of 21 inhabi- tants of Raymond arc found enroll- ed among the soldiers of the revo- lution, beside numbers of the mili- tia engaged for short periods. Four were killed or died in service. Hon. JoH.v Dudley, adisfinguish- ed patriot of the revolution, mem- ber of the committee of safety, speaker of the house, and judge of the superior court, died here May 21, 1805, aged 80. Population, in 1830, 1,000. Raynliam, Mass. Bristol CO. This town lies on Taunton river, and was taken from Taunton in IT."!. Population, 1S:37, 1,379. It is 30 miles S. from Bos- ton, 3 N. E. from Taunton, and 24 E. from Providence. There are a number of large ponds in this town producing a good water power, and to which vast quantities of herring (abswives) resort. On the banks of one of these ponds, the celebrated King Philip had a hunting house. The first forge in America was erected in this town, by James and Henry Leonard, in 1652. The house of the Leonards, an old Gothic build- ing, is now standing, and owned by the 7tli generation. The manufactures of Raynham consist of bar iron, nails, iron cast- ings, anchors, shovels, forks, cof- fee mills, and straw bonnets : total value the yearending April 1, 1S37, $360,650 ; of which $300,000 was for nails. Rcadfield, Me. Kennebec co. This is an excel- lent township of land, and finely watered by ponds and small streams. The jieople are generally industri- ous farmers, who find the cultiva- tion of the earth tlie best source of independence. Readtield is a very pleasant town, and its vicinity to the Kennebec gives it many advan- tages. It lies 11 miles W. from Augusta. Population, 1837, 2,019. U'heat crop, same year, 6,391 bush- els. Reading, Vt. Windsor co. First settled, 1772. This is an elevated township, uneven and mountainous. Several small streams rise hei-e and pass to the Queechy and Hlack rivers. This town affords excellent pasturage, in which about 6,000 slieep are kept. Reading lies 53 miles S. from Montpelier, and 10 W. from Windsor. Population, 1830, 1,409. Reading, Mass. Middlesex co. Reading is an ancient town, 13 miles N. from I3oston, 10 \V. from Salem, and 17 N. E. from Concord. The surface of the town is une- ven, but the soil is generally of a good quality. The village is pleas- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ant and flourishing. During the year ending April 1, 1837, the val- ue of $184,583 of boots and shoes were made in Reading, and $91,390 of chairs and cabinet ware. First settled, 1640. Population, 1837, 2,144. Reading, Ct. Fail-field co. This town was in- corporated in 17o7, and derived its name from Col. John Read, one of its first settlers. The soil of the town is good, but the surface is rough and hilly. The business of the people is chiefly agricultural, who live scattered about on their farms. Considerable attention is paid in Reading to the growing of wool. It lies 15 miles N. W. from Bridgeport, 60 S. V/. from Hart- ford, and 9 S. from Danbury. Pop- ulation, 1830, 1,636. It is watered by Saugatuck and Norwalk rivers. Joel. Barlow, LL. D., was born in this town, 1755. He died in Poland, 1S12. America has produced few men, more justly deserving of immortal- ity than Barlow ; and none, it is be- lieved, who have made their title to it more sure. Pie lived in an eventful period, aiid acted a con- spicuous part in both hemispheres ; and as a poet, a man of science, a politician, a philosopher and a phi- lanthropist, his name will long be revered by the friends of civil liber- ty, and of science, throughout the civilized world. Red HUl, BT. H. See Moultojihorough. ReadsboroiigU, Vt. Bennington co. A mountainous township, at the S. E. corner of the county, watered by Deerfield river, 12 miles S. E. from Bennington, and 18 W. by S. from Brattle bo- rough. Much of the land in the town is too elevated to admit of cul- tivation. Population, 1830, 662. Reliobotli, Mass. Bristol CO. This town was first settled in 1643, by the Rev. Samu- el Newman and others from Wey- mouth. Rehoboth formerly com- prised the towns of Seekonk and Pawtucket. This ancient town suf- fered greatly by Indian depreda- tions. The surface of the town is pleasant, and the soil generally good for tillage. Its manufactures consist of cotton goods, leather, shoes, cutlery, ploughs, straw bon- nets, carpenters' and joiners' tools, wagons, ox yokes, bobbins, cotton batting, wooden ware, &c. : annual value, about $60,000. Rehoboth is watered by Palmer's river. It lies 40 miles S. by W. from Boston, 10 S. W. from Taunton, and 7 E. from Providence, R. I. Popula- tion, 1837, 2,202. Its Indian name was Saccnet. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. WE^^^i^jm s?^i RHODE ISLAND. The State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations was settled by Roger Williams in 1636, a man remarkable for his benevolence, justice, and pacific policy. It derived its name fi-oiii that of a beautiful island at the mouth of Narraganset bay. Its government commenced under the charter of Charles II., in 1663, which cliarter is the present Constitution of the State. It became a member of the Union May •29(h, 1790. The Legislative power is vested in a Senate and House of Represen- tatives. The number of Senators cannot be more nor less than 10, 2 from each county, and are chosen annually by the people on the 3d Wed- nesday in April. The Representatives are in number 72. No town has less than 2, and but 4 towns have more than 2, viz. — Newport 6, Prov- idence 4, Portsmouth 4, and Warwick 4 : the number for each town hav- ing been determined by law without reference to tlie present ratio of population. They are elected semi-annually by the people, on the 3d Wednesday of April, and last Tuesday of August. The Legislature meet at Newport on the 1st Wednesday of May, and at Providence and South Kingston, alternately, on the last Monday of October annually. The executive power is vested in a Governor and Lieut. Governor, elected annually by the people on the 3d Wednesday of April. Their official term commences on the 1st Wednesday in May. 30 NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Saccession of Governors. Nicholas Cooke, 1776—1778. William Greene, 1773—1786. John Collins, 1786—1789. Arthur Fenner, 1789—1805. Henry Smith, (Act. Gov.) 1805. Isaac Wilborn, (Lieut. Gov.) 1806. James Fenner, 1807—1811. William Jones, 1811—1817. Nehemiah R. Knight, 1817—1821. William C. Gibb?, 1821—1824. James Fenner, 1824— 1831. Lemuel H. Arnold, 1831—18.33. John Brown Francis, 1833— The judicial power is vested in the Supreme Judicial Court and Court of Common Pleas. The Judges of all the Courts, Sheriffs, Notaries, Justices of the Peace, and Clerks of the Courts are chosen annually by the Legislature in Grand Committee. In all the towns (except Providence) the town coun- cils are, ex officio, Courts of Probate, and the town Clerks, Registers of Deeds and Probate. The Municipal Court in the city of Providence ex- ercise probate jurisdiction, and the Clerk is Register of Probate. The city Clerk is Register of Deeds. This state annually appropriates $10,000, to be divided among the towns for the support of free schools. Rhode Island comprises five counties : Providence, Newport, Bristol, Kent and Washington. It is bounded N. and E. by the state of Massa- chusetts, S. by the Atlantic ocean, and W. by the state of Connecticut. It lies between 41° and 42° N. lat., and between 71° and 72° W. long, and comprises an area of 1850 square miles. Population, 1755, 40,414 1774,59,678; 1790,68,825; 1800, 69,122; 1810,75,188; 1820,83,059 1830,97,196. Population to square a mile, 71. The natural features of this state are somewhat peculiar. About a tenth part of it is water, and of the residue of land a considerable portion is island territory. The interior of the state, with the exception of the in- tervales along the streams, is generally rough and hilly. The most considerable eminences are Mount Hope, in Bristol, Hop- kins' Hill, in West Greenwich, and W'oonsocket Hill, in Sniithfield. There are also some hills of considerable elevation in Exeter. Rhode Island, and most of the other islands in Narraganset bay, disclose a geological structure, of the transition character, and present a surface generally undulating, and often highly picturesque and beautiful. The mineral treasures of the State have not been explored : but so far as they are known, they are not extensive or valuable. Iron ore is the most important mineral. Mineral coal is found upon Rhode Island. Limestone abounds in the northeastern section of the state ; and in these calcareous strata there are some excellent quarries of marble. Serpen- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. tine marble is also found, ami there are in various places extensive quar- ries of freestone. The navigable waters of Rhode Island are abundant, and mill streams are found in every section of the continental part of the state. Rhode Island claims a conspicuous rank for its enterprise in foreign commerce, domestic trade, and the fishery. The tonnage of the state in 1837, was 45,631 tons. During the war with the Indian Sachem, Philip, and the war of the revolution, Rhode Island was always found at its post. lu these wars her soldiers were conspicuous for bravery ; among whom were found some of the most distinguished officers of the age. The rise and progress of this state to wealth and reputation is very interesting. It is the smallest republican state in the world, and the most important manufacturing district of its size in America. An impartial history of Rhode Island will soon be published by one of its distinguished sons : — that history will contain a merited eulogium on the character of its people. Rhode Island is celebrated for its mild and salubrious climate, which is thought peculiarly favorable to female beauty. See Register. Richfortl, Vt. Franklin CO. This is a mountain- ous township at the N. E. corner of the county, on the line of Cana- da, and watered by Missisque river and its branches. It lies 50 miles N. by W. from Montpelier, and 21 N. E. from St. Albans. There is some good land along the river ; and the upland, though rough, af- fords good grazing. Population, 1830, 704. First settled, about 1790. Richmond, Me. Lincoln co. Within these limits, on the west bank of Kennebec river, stood an ancient fortress called Rich- mond ; hence the name of the town. It lies between Bowdoinham and Gardiner, and is the site of some ship building and navigation. The town has mill privileges on a stream which empties into Merrymeeting bay: its soil is productive, and its location pleasant. Richmond lies 15 miles S. from Augusta and 15 N. from Topsham. Incorporated, 1823. Population, 1837, 1,526. Wheat crop, same year, 1,656 bushels. Richmond, N. H. Cheshire co. This town is 12 miles S. from Keene, and 70 S. W. from Concord. It is watered by branches of Ashuelot and Miller's rivers, which fall into the Connec- ticut. The ponds are three in num- ber, one of which is one of the .sour- ces of Miller's river. The soil here is favorable for yielding rye, wheat, Indian corn, and most of the pro- ductions found in this section of New England. The land is gen- erally level. There are no remark- able elevations. Richmond was granted in 1752, and was settled within 5 or 6 years afterwards, by people from Massachusetts and NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Rhode Island. Population, in 1S30, 1,301. Kichmoiid, Vt. Chittenden co. Richmond is 24 miles N. W. from Montpelier, and 13 S. E. from Burlington. Popula- tion, 1830,1,109. First settled, 1784. The town is finely watered by On- ion and Huntington rivers, on the banks of which are good mill seats and lar-^e tracts of beautiful mead- ow. Ti.°. village is neat, and the centre of considerable travel. The several religious denominations uni- ted here in building a curious look- ing meeting house ; it has sixteen sides. This is a healthy place, and noted for the longevity of its inhab- itants. RicJiinomcl, Mass. Berkshire co. This town is situ- ated in a deep valley of excellent soil, surrounded by elevated lands, and watered by Williams' river. This is an excellent farming town; the farmers' houses, extending some miles on one street, are neatly built and make a beautiful appearance. Iron ore of a good quality is found here in abundance, also marble and lime. The manufactures of the town consist of pig iron, shovels, spades, forks, hoes, leather, hoots and shoes. Annual value, about $50,000. In 1836, there were 4,835 merino sheep in Richmond. They produced 14,505 pounds of wool, valued at $8,703. It lies 135 miles W. from Boston, and 5 \V. from Lenox. Incorporated, 1765. Population, 1837, 820. Riclunond, R. I. Washington co. Richmond is bounded on the west by Wood river, and on the east by the i-iver Charles. Other streams water the town, which, with the AVood and Charles give it an excellent water power. Manufacturing establishments of various kinds flourish on its streams, particularly those of cotton. The soil is a gravelly loam, with an un- even surface. The agricultural productions of the town are very considerable. This is an excellent township for grazing; a large amount of wool and of the productions of the dairy is annually transported. Richmond was incorporated in 1742. It lies 30 miles S. S. W. from Piovidence and is bounded E. by South Kings- ton. The Providence and Stoning- ton rail-road passes through the S. E. corner of the town. Population, in 1830, 1,363. Ridgefleld, Ct. Fairfield co. Ridgefield, or, as the Indians called it, Caudatowa, a word signifying high land, is bounded W. by New Salem, N. Y. and lies 31 miles W. by N. from New Haven, and 9 S. by W. from Danbury. This township is very elevated, and commands extensive views of Long Island Sound and of the surrounding country. The soil is a strong gravelly loam, and pro- ductive of grass and grain. It is watered by Saugatuck and Norwalk rivers, and by a branch of the Cro- ton. It comprises a very liandsome village, in which are manufactures of carriages, cabinet furniture, &c. Limestone is abundant. Popula- tion, 1830, 2,323. Incorporated, 1709. The celebrated hermitess, Sarah Bishop, lived on the western bor- der of Ridgefield. She lived on Long Island at the time of the Revolutionary war. Her father's house was bui-nt by the British, and she was cruelly treated by a Brit- ish officer. She then left society and wandered among the mountains near this part of the state : she found a kind of cave near Ridgefield, where she resided fill about the time of her death, which took place in 1810. It is said that the wild an- imals were so accustomed to see her, that they were not afraid of her presence. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. The following account of a visit to this hermitess, is taken from a Poughkeepsie paper. " Yesterday I went to visit the hermitage. As you pass the south- ern and elevated ridge of the moun- tain, and begin to descend the south- ern steep, you meet with a perpen- dicular descent of a rock, in the front of which is this cave. At the foot of this'rock is a gentle descent of rich and fertile ground, extend- ing about ten rods, when it instant- ly forms a frightful precipice, de- scending half a mile to the pond called Long pond. In the front of the rock, on the north, where the cave is, and level with the ground, there appears a lai-gc frustrum of the rock, of a double fathom in size, thrown out by some unknown con- vulsion of nature, and lying in the front of the cavity from which it was rent, partly enclosing the mouth, and forming a room : the rock is left entire above, and forms the roof of this humble mansion. This cavity is the habitation of the hermitess, in which she has passed the best of her years, excluded from all society ; she keeps no do- mestic animal, not even fowl, cat, or dog Her little jjlantation, con- sisting of iialf an acre, is cleared of its wood, and reduced to grass, where she has raised a few peach trees, and yearly plants, a few hills of beans, cucumbers, and potatoes ; the whole is surrounded with a luxuriant grape vine, which over- spreads the surrounding wood, and is very productive. On the oppo- site side of this little tenement, is a fine fountain of excellent water ; at this fountain we found the wonder- ful woman, whotrearn. The surface of the town is uneven, but the soil is generally rich and productive. There are two woolen mills, and manufactures of boots, shoes, leather, chairs, cabinet ware, palm-leaf hats and mats, wooden ware. &c. First settled, 1762. Incorporated, 17C5. ft lies 70 miles W. N. W. from Boston, and oS N. W. from Wor- cester. Population, 1S37, 1,629. Royalton, Vt. Windsor co. The surface of this town is somewhat rough and moun- tainous, but the soil is good, partic- ularly on the banks of White river, by which it is watered. This town was first settled in 1771, and for many years endured great suffering from Indian hostili- ty. This is an excellent township for grazing, and its agricultural products are considerable. It has a pleasant village and an academy. Royalton is 30 miles S. from Montpelier, and 25 N. N. W. from Windsor. Population, in 1830, 1,893. Ruinford, Me. Oxford CO. Rum ford is a town- ship of valuable land, 51 miles W. N. W. from Augusta, and 20 N. by W. from Paris. It lies on the northwestern bank of the Andros- coggin, and enjoys a great water power. Mills of various kinds are already erected, and manufactures on a large scale are contemplated. White Cap mountain, lising 500 feet above the level of the surround- ing country, and Glass-face, about 400 feet, present beautiful views from tlieir summits. Population, 1837, 1,882. Wheat crop, same year, 4,385 bushels. Incorporated, 1800. Rwnaiiey, N. H. Grafton co. Rumney is 8 miles N. N. W. fi-om Plymouth, 47 N. by NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. W. from Concord. It is watered by Baker's river, of wliicli a con- siderable branch tlows from Stin- son's pond, and is called Stinson's brook. The pond is 400 rods long and 280 rods wide. Part of Loon pond is on the E. line of this town. The principal elevations are Stin- son's and Webber's mountains in the E. part, and a small [lart of Carr's mountain, which here ob- tains the name of Rattlesnake mountain, on its N. W. border. Rumney was granted in 17()7, and was first settled in ITC.j. It was in this town, on the 2Sth of April, 1752, that the late (Jeneral Stark, while on a huntin;; expedition, was captured by a party of 10 Indians, commanded by Francis Titigavv. lie was in company with Amos Eastman of Concord, David Stinson of Londondci-ry, and his brother William. Stinson was slain. Pop- ulation, in 1830, i)'J'3. Rupert, Vt. Bennington co. A part of this township is mountainous, but the soil is generally good for grazing. Rupert produces some fine cattle, and keeps about 10,000 sheep. It is watered by Pavvlet river, and a branch of the Battenkill, on which streams, are mills of various kinds. Rupert is 78 miles S. W. from Wont- pelier, and 2.5 N. from Bennington. Population, 1830, 1,313. Russell, Mass. Hampden co. Westticld river waters this town, and afT(:)rdsit good mill privileges. There is a cotton mill in the town and other manufac- tures. Russell lies 100 miles W. by S. from Boston, and 14 W. by N. from Springfield. Incorporated, 1792. Population, 1837, 47-5. Rutlaud County, Vt. Rutland, chief town. This coun- ty is bounded N. by Addison coun- ty, E. by Windsor county, S. by Bennington county, and W. by the state of New York. Incorporated, 17S1. Population, 1820, 29,983; 1830,31,294. This county contains an area of 958 square miles. In- habitants to a square mile, 33. The pi-incipal streams are Otter Creek, Black, White, Queechy and Paw- let rivers. There is some fine land in this county along Otter Creek, but a large portion of it is elevated, and some parts mountainous. The soil, however, is generally warm and well suited for grazing. Ma- ny cattle are annually taken to market, and in 1837, there were 180,984 sheep in Rutland county. Excellent iron ore is found at the base of the mountains, and a range of marble quarries extends thewhole iengtii of the county from north to south. This marble is of a fine quality : much of it is wrought and transported. Rutland, Vt. Chief town, Rutland co. This town was settled about the year 1770, and for some time during the revolutionary war was a frontier town. The Green mountain hoys erected here two small picket forts, which were found very useful. The soil of the town is various, but gen- erally of an excellent q\iality. Iron ore of a good quality is found ; clay, lime, and a great abundance of beau- tifully variegated marble. The village of Rutland is neat, well built and handsomely located: it is the centre of trade for a large section of fertile country. The ag- ricultural productions of Rutland are large and valuable : — in 1S37, there were within its limits 20,981 sheep. Otter Creek and its tribu- taries give the town a good water power, and manufacturing estab- lishments are springing up along their banks. Rutland lies 50 miles S. W. from iMontpelier, 52 N. by E. from Bennington, 60 S. S. E. from Hurlingtou, and 34 W. N. W. from Windsor. Population, 1830, 2,753. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Rutland, Mass* Worcester co. Rutland was for- merly twelve miles square, and was sold by the Indians, in 1686, for £23 lawful money. It was first settled about the year 1720, and incorporated, in 1722. It lies 51 miles W. by N. from Boston and 12 N. W. from Worcester. A branch of Ware river waters (he town, and gives it mill privileges. The man- ufactures consist of woolen goods, leather, boots, shoes, chairs, cabi- net and wooden wares ; annual val- ue about $50,000. Rutland is a very pleasant town, of good soil and well cultivated. Its exports of beef, butter and cheese are consid- erable. It contains some tine fish ponds. Population, 1837, 1,265. Rye, N. H., Rockingham co., is pleasantlj* sit- uated on the sea coast, 6 1-2 miles S. from Portsmouth. It was orig- inally taken from Portsmouth, Greenland, Hampton and New Castle,chiefly the latter; and though it began to be settled as early as the year 1635, it was not incorporated till 1719. The sea coast here is about 6 miles in extent, being nearly one third of the coast in the state. On the shore, there are three consider- able and very pleasant beaches, viz. Sandy, Jenness' and Wallis', to which many persons resort in tlie summer season from neighboring towns and the country, both for health and for pleasure. There is here a small harbor, near Goss' mill, into which vessels of 70 or SO tons burden may conveniently enter, at high water. The boat fisherj' is carried on to considei-able advan- tage, particularly in the fall and winter seasons. There was former- ly a large fresh water pond, lying contiguous to the sand bank or bounds of tlie sea, covering a sur- face of about 300 acres. I3etwcen this and the sea, a communication was opened by the inhabitants about a century since. The waters were discharged into the sea, leaving a tract of marsh, which, being wa- tered by the regular flowing of the tide, yields annually large quanti- ties of salt hay. Breakfast Hill, between this town and Greenland, is distinguished as the place where a party of Indians were surprised at breakfast, at the time of their in- cursion in 1696. There are small circular holes in the rocks of which this hill is principally composed, supposed to have been made use of by the natives. This town has suf- fered considerably in times of war and danger. In the American or revolutionary war, 38 of its inhabi- tants lost their lives, by sea oi- land ; most of them young men. Popu- lation, in 1830, 1,172. Ryegate, Vt. Caledonia co. This town is situ- ated on the west bank of Connec- ticut river, opposite to Ikith, N. H. It is 33 miles E. by S. from Mont- pelier, and 14 S. by E. from Dan- ville. Ryegate is watered by Wells river, some smaller streams and sev- eral ponds. There is not much in- tervale land on the river, in the town, but the soil is generally rich and very productive of all kinds of vegetables and grain ; but more par- ticularly of grass. About 3,000 sheep are kept, and the products of the soil, annually transported to market, are very considerable. This town was first settled by emigrants from Scotland, in the year 1774. A large part of the present population of Ryegate are of Scotch descent, and are said to follow, in a great degree, the peculiar habits, in regard to di- et, which Scotchmen are accustom- ed to in their own country. They annually prepare large quantities of oat meal for cakes, and lay in a good stock of hulled barley for liroths, soups and puddings. The people of Ryegate are generally frugal and industi'ious ; good farmers, and good livers. They manufac- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ture their own apparel and some for their neighbors. Population, 1830, 1,119. Saclicni's Head, Ct. See Guilford. I^aco River, Is one of the largest in New England ; yet being much broken in its course by falls, is not naviga- ble to any considoi-able extent. It springs from three sources in the White mountains; the branch is- suing from the southwest side of the mountains, near the Notch, is considered the main stream; next to this is the middle branch, which is the smallest ; and beyond is the branch called Ellis's river, which rises on the northeast side of the mountains, and after a course of about eighteen miles, unites with the main branch in the town of Bartlett. Cutler's and New rivers are mountain tori'ents that discharge into the Ellis. The Ammonoosuck, a branch of the Connecticut, rises within about two rods of the Saco, flowing in an opposite direction. The whole length of Saco river is estimated to be 160 miles; running in its general course S. S. E., and discharging into the sea in N. lati- tude 43° 31', W. longitude 70° 26'. The principal falls are, the Great Falls, at Hiram, where the water descends 72 feet; Steep Falls, at Limington, 20 feet ; Salmon Falls, at Mollis and Buxton, 30 feet ; and Saco Falls, 42 feet. The latter are about 4 miles from the mouth of the river. The ordinary rise of the water, in the spring, is from 10 to 15 feet, but in great freshets it has been known greatly to ex- ceed that number. A long storm which occurred in Octobei-, 17S5, raised the liver to an immense height, sweeping away mills and bridges, and inundating houses that stood in its vicinity. In 1S14, there was the greatest freshet known since that of 1785. At such .'ea- 31 sons the appearance of Saco Falls is truly sublime. Saco, Me. York CO. Saco is situated on the east side of the river of that nanR-. It is 71 miles S. S. W. from Au- gusta, l.*) S. W. from Portland, and 29N.E. from York. Saco is a port of entry, a place of some ship bnilding, and commands a flourishing trade. Population, 1830, 3,219; 1837, 4,229. Saco enjoys the rare privilege of possessing a great hydraulic pow- er united with navigable accommo- dations. The Saco river teiniin- ates its fantastic course at this place, by leaping, within a short distance, 42 feet, and mingling with the ocean. This water power is very valuable, and cannot fail of becom- ing the site of large manufactuiing operations. J'rom the mouth of the river a flne beach extends to the east about 5 miles, called Old Orchaid beach. This name arose from a growth of apple trees formerly near the beach , planted at a very early period ; some of them remained as late as 1770. Another beach of less e.\- tent, but not infeiior in other re- spects, is found at the Pool, con- necting Fletcher's Neck with the main, and forming the south shore of that peninsula. Its distance from the Falls is about 9 miles. The small streams by which dif- ferent parts of Saco are watered, generally derive their oiigin from an immense bog, commonly called the Heath, and flow into the liver and sea. On one of these, Fox- well's brook, there is a line water- fall, with a descent of about sixty feet, surrounded by scenery of a W'ild and striking character. The lumber ti-ade has long been the principal branch of business on Saco rivei-. In early times, thci mills were supjilii d with logs from the forests in the vicinity of the Falls: in the former part of the last NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. century, they were procured at the distance of a few miles above the mills. In the winter of 1772, it is said, a few persons for the first time ascended the river as far as Frye- burg, in quest of timber, and find- ing an abundance, turned the at- tention of millmen to that region for their future supplies. After the war the number of mills was increased. Before the year ISOO, seventeen saws were in operation about the Falls. Theie were oth- ers on the small streams in different parts of Saco and Biddeford. The quantity of boards sawed per day, (24 hours) has been estimated at fifty thousand feet. There is considerable navigation owned at Saco, employed in foreign and domestic commerce and the fishery. The tonnage of the dis- trict, in 1S37, was 3,666 tons. There are at present a large cot- ton mill, a rolling mill, a nail facto- ry, and numerous saw mills; but a great portion of the water power remains unimproved. The village of Saco contains ma- ny handsome buildings, and the scenery around it is romantic and beautiful. Saco and Biddeford were former- ly united. The former was first settled in 1631, the latter in 1630. We make a few extracts from Mj-. Folsom's valuable histoiy of those towns, as they contain some inter- esting information in relation to the first settlement of this part of New England. " The unfortunate termination of Sir Walter Raleigh's attempts to colonize Virginia during the reign of Queen Elizabeth, had effectual- Ij' checked the spirit of enterprise in England in relation to the settle- ment of America. The discove- ries of Gosnold and Pring, and the shortness of their voyages, now caused the subject to be revived, and to excite more general interest than had before existed. On the petition of a number of gentlemen, a charter was grantea by king James in the year 1606, dividing the country into two districts, call- ed North and South Virginia, and authorizing the establishment of separate colonies in each district by two distinct companies. A right of property in the land fifty miles on each side of their first plantations, and extending 100 miles into the in- terior, was granted by this patent. The first or Southern colony were allowed to settle any part of the country within the degrees of 34 and 41 north latitude; the second, consisting chiefly of persons resi- dent at Plymouth and other towns in the west of England, and thence denominated the Plymouth Com- pany, were allowed to choose a place of settlement between 38 and 45 degrees north latitude. As a considerable portion of the territo- ry thus allotted was common to the two districts, a provision was added, that the colony last planted should not approach within one hundred miles of that already established. " The next year colonies were sent out by the two companies. One was fixed at Jamestown, of which Gosnold ' was the prime mover,' and Capt. Smith an active member ; the other was established at Sagadahock, or the mouth of the Kennebec, led by Captains George Popham, brother to the Chief Jus- tice, and Raleigh Gilbert. This colony consisted of 108 men; — whether accompanied by their fam- ilies, we are not informed. They arrived on the coast near the island of Monheagan, a few leagues east of the Kennebec, in tlie month of August, and soon after entered the mouth of that river, where, on the eastern side, on an island now form- ing a part of Georgetown, they commenced preparations for a per- manent settlement without delay. Monheagan was agreed upon as a place of rendezvous for the ships before leaving England, and al- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. though we are not directly told that the destination of the colony was determined before their arrival, there is no doubt of the fact. The great patron of the enterprise. Chief Justice Popham, obtained an accu- rate survey of the coast the year before, and doubtless selected the mouth of that" fair and navi2;able river," as the Kennebec is styled by Smith, as a favorable location for the seat of the colonj'. " The lateness of the season scarcely allowed the colonists time to erect a fort and the necessary places of slielter before the ap- proach of winter, which proved excessively rigorous. More than half their number returned with the ships to England in December, in consequence of the severity of the cold and the scantiness of their supplies. Soon after those who had remained had the misfortune to lose the greater part of their build- ings and stores by hre. Capt. Pop- ham died in the course of the win- ter, and an arrival in the spring brought news of the death of the Chief Justice. Raleigh Gilbert, who succeeded Popham as presi- dent of the Colony, was under the necessity of returning to England on account of the decease of his brother, of vvhicli intelligence was received by another arrival, and the colonists, discouraged by so ma- ny adverse circumstances, resolved to abandon the country and return ■with him. Thus in less than one year from the time the settlement ■was commenced, the northern col- ony was broken up ; the country was denounced as uninhabitable, and no further attempts were made for many years to promote its set- tlement by the Company to whom it was assigned by the patent of King James. " Sir Ferdinando Gorges, a con- spicuous member of the Plymouth Company, alone remained undis- couraged. The attention of this gentleman appears to have been first turned to this part of America in the year 1605, when Capt. Wey- mouth arrived in the harbor of Plymouth where he resided, on his return from a voyage for the dis- covery of the northwest passage. Falling short of his course, Wey- mouth had accidently discovered the river Penobscot, from whence he carried to England five of the natives, " three of whom," says Gorges, " I seized upon ; they were all of one nation, but of several parts and several families. This accident must be acknowledged the means under God of putting on foot and giving life to all our planta- tions." He retained these In- dians in his family three years, and obtained from them much informa- tion respecting their native shores : they were afterwards sent back. Gorges henceforth took a deep in- terest in schemes for the settlement of North Virginia, and was rather chagrined than discouraged by the return of the Sagadahock colonists, and the unfavorable reports which they spread concerning the coun- try. " He had too much experi- ence in the world," he said, " to be frighted with such a blast, as know- ing many great kingdoms and large territories more northerly seated and by many degrees colder, were plentifully inhabited, and divers of them stored with no better com- modities than these afforded, if like industry, art and labor be used." Unable, however, to persuade the company to undertake the planting of a second colony. Gorges engaged in private enterprises to this coast, which began to be much resorted to by English ships for purposes of trade with the natives, and of fish- ing. In the year 1616, he sent hither a party commanded by Rich- ard Vines, for the express object of exploring the country with a view to form a settlement. He con- tracted with them to remain during the winter, with the hope of remov- ing the prejudice excited by the NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Sagadahock colonists against the character of the climate. " They arrived during the prev- alence of a destructive disease among the natives, which spread throughout New England, com- mencing its ravages in the west. This pestilence is noticed by all the writers on the early history of New England, with some difference of opinion as to the precise year of its occurrence. A late and highly re- spectable writer supposes it to have prevailed in different places at dif- ferent times, but a few years pre- vious to the arrival of the Plj'mouth pilgrims. It was regarded by those pious colonists as a special interpo- sition of divine providence in their favor, so great was the havoc it made among the tribes in that quar- ter. 'Thus,' says old Morton, 'God made way for his people by remov- ing the heathen and planting them in the land.' " Mr. Vines and his companions penetiated into the interior, visiting the Indians in their villages and wigwams, who received them with great kindness and hospitality. Be- side the i-avages of sickness, they were at this time thrown into con- fusion by the death of the Bashaba or chief sachem, whom the Tari-an- tincs, living east of the Penobscot, had attacked by surprise and de- stroyed with his family the preced- ing year. Great dissensions had immediately followed among the different tribes, who were engaged in a destructive war with each oth- er when the pestilence made its ap- pearance. In the midst of these evils, the Englishmen passed with safety among them, and slept in their cabins without suffering fi-om the contagion. They were in par- ticular welcomed by the savages whom they had seen in the family of Gorges at Plymouth, and now met in their native homes. Having visited different parts of the coast, this little party prepared to estab- lish themselves for the winter. The spot which they selected for their abode, we have reason to sup- pose, was at the mouth of Saco riv- er, on the western side, near the capacious and sheltered basin now called the Pool, but in early times known as Winter harbor. " Vines performed several voyages to our coast in the service of Gorges, and it is probable made Winter Har- bor his principal resort. While he was occupied in exploring the country and trading with the na- tives, his men were engaged in fishing. How long he pursued this course, we are not informed, nor do we find him mentioned again until several years after his early resi- dence at Winter Harbor. " The employments of the colo- nists were chiefly agriculture, fish- ing, and trade with the natives. Most of them combined these pur- suits, and were styled husbandmen or planters. " The husbandmen took up tracts of 100 acres, of which they receiv- ed leases on nominal or small rents, from Mr. Vines. Some of these are now on record. An estate that had been in the possession of Thom- as Cole, including 'a mansion or dwellinghouse,' was leased by Mr. Vines to John West for the term of 1000 years, for the annual rent of two shillings and one capon, a pre- vious consideration having been paid by West. The lease which is pai'tly in the latin language, was executed, 163S. Another deed from Vines requires the lessee to yield and pay an acknowledgement and rent-charge of 5s., two days work, and one fat goose yearly. In this manner were all the planters ren- dered tenants to the proprietor, none of them holding their estates in fee simple. Fishing was the most common occupation, as it was both easy and profitable to barter the products of this business tor corn from Virginia, and other stores fiom England. The trade with the planters of Mas- NEW ExNGLAND GAZETTEER. sachupctts soon became considera- ble. In 1636, Mr. Vines had a consij^nineiit of bread and beef from that quarter. Jocelyn remarks that 'Winter Harbor is a noted place for fishers.' He describes tlie mode of pursuing this business in the follow- ing manner: 'Tiie fislieiiiien take yearly on the coast many hundred quintals of cod, hake, haddock, pol- lock, &c. and dry them at their stages, making three voyages in a year. They make merchantable and refuse fish, which they sell to Massachusetts mercliants ; the lirst for 32 ryals ('$i) per quintal ; the refuse for 9 and 10 shillings ($2, and 2,25.) Tlie mercliant sends tlie first to Lisbon, Bilboa, Mar- seilles, Bordeaux, Toulon, and other cities of France ; to Canaries, pipe- staves and clapboards; the refuse fish to the W. Indies for the ne- groes. To every shallop belong four fishermen, a master or steers- man, a midshipman, and a shore man, who washes it out of the salt, and dries it upon hurdles pitched upon stakes breast high, and tends their cookery. They often get in one voyage 8 or 9 bari'els a share per man. The merchant buys of the planters beef, pork, peas, wheat, Indian corn, and sells it to the fish- ermen.' " The expense of each planter to provision himself was quite small, if we may judge from an estimate furnished by Mr. Jocelyn for the information of proposed emigrants. A similar estimate had been previ- ously made by Capt. .Smith wilh reference to Virginia. ' Victuals to last one man a year; 8 bushels of meal, £2: two bushels of peas, 6 shillings : two bushels of oatmeal, 9 shillings : one gallon of aqua vita;, (brandy,) 2s. (id.: one gallon of oil, 3s. Gd. : two gallons of vinegar, 2s.:' total, £3 3s., equal to $14. " A considerable traffic was car- ried on with the natives by many of the planters, some of them visi- ting remote parts of the coast, or travelling into the interior for this purpose. English and French goods were bartered for valuable furs, particularly beaver." Saddle Mountain, Mass. See Adams. Saddleback Mountain, Me. Franklin co. This mountain is a few miles south of Mount Abraham. It is 2.3 miles N. W. from Farming- ton, and ajjout 4,000 feet above the level of the sea. Sagadaliocic, Me. The ancient name of a section of country, at and east of the mouth of Kennebec river. .See Saco. St. Albans, Mc. Somerset co. This is a valuable township of land, 46 miles N. N. E. from Augusta, and 26 N. E. by E. from Norridgewock. Incorpora- ted, 1S13. Population, 18.30, 911 ; 1837, 1,393. This town contains a large and beautiful pond ; the out- let of which forms a good mill stream, a branch of Sebasticook river. There are two pleasant and flourishing villages in St. Albans. Wheat crop, 1837, 10,294 bushels. St. Albans, Vt. Shire town of Franklin co. This town is bounded on the west by Champlain lake. It lies 46 miles N. W. by N. from Montpelicr, and 2.5 N. from Burlington. First set- tled about the year 1785. Popula- tion 1830, 2,395. The soil of this town is fertile, and under the man- agement of good farmers, is render- ed very productive. In 1837, there were 8,459 sheep in the town, and the exports of wool and other pro- ductions of the soil arc large and valuable. The water communica- tions by the lake to New- York and Canada, render St. Albans a mart of considerable trade from the sur- rounding country. The first ves- sel from Lake Champlain, that ar- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. rived at New York, by the north- ern canal, was from, built and own- ed at St. Albans. The Village of St. Albans is beautifully situated on elevated ground, and commands a fine pros- pect. It contains many handsome buildings, and is a busy place in the manufacture of various articles. It lies three miles from the lake, and twelve miles from the line of Can- ada. St. Croii River. This river forms the boundary line between the United States and the British Province of New Bruns- wick, from the ocean to Grand Lake. It is sometimes called Pas- samaquoddjf, Schoodic and Clie- putnetecook. This river rises in Grand Lake and passes to the ocean in a S. E. course. The dis- tances on this important river are as follows : from Eastport to Ca- lais, at the head of navigation, is 28 miles : from Calais to the mouth of Schoodic river, 21 miles, and from thence to Grand Lake is 33 miles : total distance from Eastport to Grand Lake, 82 miles. There are many elevations in this river, and consequently many falls and rapids, producing a great hydraulic power. The mouth of the western branch of the St. Croix, or Schoodic river, is 166 feet above tide water, at Calais ; and the whole fall from Grand Lake to sea level is 444 feet. St> Francois River, Me. Or the Pecheenegamook, rises in the county of Piscataquis, on the border of Canada. It has a number of tributaries and receives the wa- ters of several lakes. It is about 50 miles in length, and, passing nearly south falls into the river St. John, on the line of Penobscot county. St. George, Me. Lincoln co. This township is nearly surrounded by water. It is bounded northerly by a neck of land adjoining Thomaston, E. by the western waters of Penobscot bay, S. by the Atlantic, and W. by the waters of Muscongus bay and St. George's river. This town pos- sesses, in an eminent degree, every navigable facility. It is a place of considerable ship building, and the people are engaged in the lumber trade, coasting and fishing. There are a number of islands on the coast of this town : a cluster of islands called St. Georges, are the most considerable. They lie off the town S. by W. about 5 miles. St. George was incorporated in 1803. Population, 1837, 1,883. It lies 57 miles S. E. from Augusta, and 10 S. from Warren. St. George River is a valuable stream, both on account of its hy- draulic power and navigable ac- commodations. It receives its most distant waters from ponds in IMont- ville, Searsmont and Belmont in the county of Waldo, and, in a southerly course, passes to Union, where it receives the waters of several ponds, and meets the tide at Warren. The length of this river is about 40 nules : it is navigable to Warren, 15 miles from the sea. St. George, Vt. Chittenden co. A small town bounded W. by Shelburne, 28 miles W. by N. from Montpelier, and 8 S. E. from Burlington. First set- tled, 1784. Population, 1830, 135. The surface is high and uneven: the soil is composed of loam, clay and gravel. St. JoHii's River. See Fiindy, Bay. St. Jolmsljury, Vt. Caledonia co. This pleasant and flourishing town is 35 miles N. E. from Montpelier, 57 N. from Han- over, N. H., and 7 E. from Danville. The town was organized in 1790. Population, 1830, 1,592 ; 1838, about NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. 2.000. The surface is uneven, but the soil is generally strong and fer- tile. In 1S37, there were 4,546 sheep in the town. The amount of available water power in St. Johnsbury is great and valuable, indicating its future im- portance as a site for large manu- factories. The Passumpsic river, a considerable stream, which falls into Connecticut river at the foot of Fif- teen Mile Falls, passes through the central part of the town from north to south. Jtloose and Sleeper's riv- ers unite with the Passumpsic and afford a succession of excellent mill seats seldom seen so closely com- bined. On Sleeper's river is the estab- lishment of E. and S. Fairbanks, for the manufacture of their improved platform balances, on an extensive scale ; also iron works of various kinds, on the other streams. There are thiee handsome villa- ges in the town: that called the Plain, is on elevated ground and near the junction of the streams. This town commands the trade of a considerable portion of country, and these villages, which are neatly built, enjoy an active business. Salem, Me. Somerset co. This town is wa- tered by a branch of Seven Mile Brook, and lies 52 miles N. N. W. from Augusta, and 2S N. W. from Norridgewock. Incorporated, 1823. Population, 1837, 496. This is a good farming town ; it produced in 1837, 4,216 bushels of wheat. Salem, N. H., Rockingham co., is 30 miles S. from Concord, and 40 S. W. from Portsmouth. Policy pond, partly in this town, and partly in Windham, is the largest collection of water: World's end pond and Captain pond are in the S. E. and E. parts of^ the town ; and there are other small ponds. The Spiggot river, passing from N. to S. through the town, re- ceives in its course numerous branches, and waters the different portions of the town, furnishing also excellent mill privileges. The soil is generally fertile, and the surface uneven. Salem was incorporated by charter, May II, 1750. Popula- tion, in IS30, 1,310. Salem, Vt. Orleans co. This is a township of level surface, and tolerable soil ; 50 miles N. N. E. from Montpelier and lON.E. from Irasburgh. First settled, 1798. Population, 1830, 230. Clyde river passes through the N. E. part of the town and apart of the south bay of Memphrema- gog lake lies in the N. W. corner. Salem, Mass., One of the shire towns in Essex CO. This is the oldest and largest seaport but one in old Massachu- setts. Its Indian name was Aa- umkeag. It is 14 miles N. N. E. from Boston, and lies in lat. 42° 31' 19" N., and Ion. 70° 54' W. Popu- lation, 1836, 15,002. Salem is near- ly surrounded by water, being sit- uated between two inlets of the sea, called the north and south livers. To the main, and now inhabited part of the town, is attached a peninsular portion of land, called the Neck. This was the first inhabited land, and was formerly used for fishing and other purposes. It ultimately became the property of the town, and was, for a long time, used as a public pasture. In 1816, when the present Alms House was built, a large portion of it was enclosed, and has since been cultivated as the Alms House farm. The finest and most comprehensive view of Sa- lem may be had from " Gallows Hill." Its situation is low, hut pleasant and healthy. Its streets are quite irregular. Essex is the only street which runs through the town and is very angular and crook- ed. Federal and Bridge streets are broad, straight and regular. Ches- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. nut is esteemed the handsomest, though it is not the most public street. It has rows of elms on ei- ther side. Winter and Broad streets are the widest. The first pavement was made in Essex street, between Court and North streets, in 1773, and is still in use. The south church has great architectural beauty, and the north church is built of stone, ■with a beautiful front of the gothic order. There is a Custom House iit the head of Derby wharf. Say iem has always been a commercial place. It has a convenient harbor and good anchorage. In point of v/ealth and commerce, it has al- ways ranked as the second town in New England. Its history is identified with that of Massachusetts, and there is much in it to interest and instruct. Its rank, the character and number of its population, its facilities for com- merce, and the advantage of being the chosen residence of many of the first and most distinguished set- tlers, made it early and seriously thought of as the Capital, instead of Boston. It was first settled in 1626, by Roger Conant, Peter Pal- fray and others, who had failed in an attempt to plant themselves at Cape Ann. In 1628, a cession of Massachusetts was made to Sir Henry Roswell and others, with a view to establish a colony there. Of this company, Matthew Cradock was President, and in 1628, John Endicott was sent over to reside at Salem as the company's agent. In the same year, the first church was formed. It has ever been remark- able for its succession of eminent, independent and useful Divines; among whom, are the Higginsons, Skelton, Roger Williams, Hugh Pe- ters, Noyes, Fiske, Dr. Prince, &c. In 16-34, tho first general court met at Newton. Roger Conant was one of the first deputies from Salem. In 1643, Massachusetts was divi- ded into 4 counties; Essex, Mid- dlesex, Suffolk and Norfolk. In 1644, there was a strong party to make Salem the seat of government^ but in this attempt, the deputies were defeated. In 1675, Capt. Thomas Lathrop and his company were killed by the Indians, at Bloody Brook. He, with Roger Conant, had removed from Salem to Beverly, in 1668. His company were called the " Flower of Essex," and many of them were from Salem. In 1681, Major William Haw- thorne died. He was a leading and influential character in his time, having been speaker, assistant, judge, commissioner of the united colonies, &c., and having ever showed himself able, faithful, and worthy of confidence. In 1687, William Brown gave a farm for the benefit of the schools of Salem. The Brown family were ever gi-eat friends and liberal pat- rons of learning. They not only made donations to the Salem schools, but also to Harvard College for the benefit of poor scholars. In 1692, the witchcraft delusion prevailed in Salem, and nineteen persons were tried and hanged as witches. Though designated " the Salem witchcraft," it had pervaded other places, previously to its ap- pearance here. In England, laws had been enacted against it, and Sir Matthew Hale, gave to those laws his sanction. In 164S, Margaret Jones was condemned and hanged at Charlestown, and in 1655, Ann Hibbins, at Boston. The imputa- tion for a time induced a belief of the reality of the imposition ; but time finally detected and exposed the error. The house, in which the accused were tried, is still stand- ing at the western corner of Essex and North streets, and the place of their execution is now known as " Gallows Hill." A fiill and inter- esting account of this delusion of the imagination has been written and published by Rev. C. W. Up- ham. I NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. In 1698, a great fire broke out, and destroyed several dwelling houses. In 171S, tlie second or east church was built and is still standing. The celebrated Dr. Bent- ley was pastor of this church. He wrote a " Description of Salem," which is published in the " Collec- tions of the Mass. Hist. Society." In 1774, General Gage ordered the removal of the general court to Salem. At that time, Boston was a closed port. The merchants and citizens of Salem called a town meeting, at which, resolutions de- nouncing, in very strong terms, the Boston port bill, were passed unani- mously. The meeting was very full, and a copy of their doings was communicated to their neighbors of Boston. On the 11th of June, when Gov. Gage was at Salem, an address, numerously signed, was presented to him, which reflects high honor on the sense of justice and patriot- ism of this ancient town. Among other things it said, " By shutting up the port of Boston, some imag- ine that the course of trade might be turned hither and to our benefit ; but nature in the formation of our harbor forbids our becoming rivals in commerce to that convenient mart. And were it otherwise, we must be dead to every idea of jus- tice — lost to all feelings of humani- ty — could we indulge one thought to seize on wealth and raise our for- tunes on the ruin of our suffering neighbors." In 1776, Feb. 26, Col. Leslie, with a British regiment from Bos- ton Castle, landed privately at Sa- lem and proceeded to the North bridge, with a view to seize on some military stores beyond it. The cit- izens were, at the time, in meeting ; but Col. Timothy Pickering, with 30 or 40 men, got there in season to raise the draw, and thus prevent Leslie and his regiment from pass- ing further. The British attempted to cross the river in a gondola, but the Americans scuttled the boat. Finally, Col. Leslie proposed that if he should be perniiticd to pass 30 rods beyond the bridge, he would return. Having been per- mitted, the gallant colonel returned peaceably to Boston. During the revolution, there were about 60 armed vessels fitted out from Salem, manned by 4,000 men ; and many unrecorded deeds of high daring and chivalrous adven- ture were performed on the sea by citizens of Salem, duiing that event- ful period. Indeed, in her naval achievements consists principally the part which Salem bore in the revolutionary struggle. This seaport has been more known for its East India trade than any other in the United States. The first ship from Salem engaged in this trade was the Grand Turk, owned by E. H. Derby. She was at the Cape of Good Hope in 1784, commanded by Capt. Jonathan In- gersoll, and at Canton in 17S6, com- manded by Ebenezer West. A model of her, completely rigged, is in the Museum. In 1818, there were 53 vessels employed in this trade belonging to Salem, the ton- nage of which was 14,272 tons. Salem became a city in 1836. Its government consists of a mayor and six aldermen, and twenty-four com- mon council men. Its public schools are nineteen. The number of schol- ars in 1837, was 1,534, and the amount paid for instruction $8,877. The Athenceum was incorporated in 1810. Edward A. Holyoke, William Orne, Nathaniel Silsbee and Samuel Putnam were authoris- ed to call the first meeting of the proprietors. The stock is divided into 90 or 100 shares. Its library contains al)out 9,000 volumes. The institution, though at present rather private, may ultimately become more public. The Museum is remarkable for the extent and variety of its natural and artificial curiosities, collected from almost every part of the world. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. There are 4,724 names of tlifTerent articles on the catalogue : they are kept in a spacious hall built for that purpose, and belong to the East In- dia Marine society. This society consists of such only as have actu- ally navigated the seas near the Cape of Good Hope or Cape Horn, as master or factor. In 1823, there were 160 of these enterprising men living in Salem. The hall is open daily for the reception of visitor-'-,and vast numbers of strangers throng there. All come with an eager and excited curiosity, and leave wiih that curiosity at least gratified, if not satisfied. The commerce of Salem is very extended. There is hardly any part of the world which her ships have not visited. The number of ves- sels, engaged in foreign commerce, is 100 or more, and 18 in the whal- ing business, beside the vessels em- ployed in the coasting trade and fish- ery. Tonnage of the district in 1S37, 32,800 tons. Many of the wharves bear the names of their builders and owners : as the Allen, Derby, Peabody, For- ester and Phillips' wharf. This last was recently re-built by Stephen C. Phillips, on the ruins of the old Crowninshield wharf, which had become dilapidated and useless. It is an admirable piece of work. Although Salem is without any important water power, and has ev- er been almost exclusively devoted to maritime pursuits, yet its manu- facturing interests are by no means small. During the year ending- April 1, 1837, the value of its man- ufactures amounted to $1,471,889. They consisted of vessels, cordage, leather, boots, shoes, hats, tin and cabinet wares, chairs, spirits ; white, sheet and pipe lead, carriages, stiaw bonnets, sperm candles, tobacco, alum, saltpetre refined, aquafortis, muriatic acid,oil of vitriol, &c. The value of its whale, cod and mack- erel fisheries, the same year, amounted to $210,843. The Jlqueiluct furnishes the city with a constant supply of fresh and soft spring water. The fire department is under good regulations. Some of the societies in the city are the " East India ]Ma- rine society," incorporated in 1801 ; the " E. I. M. Hall Corporation," in 1824; the " Salem Charitable Me- chanic Association," instituted in 1S17, and incorporated, in 1822; the " Essex Histoi'ical Society," in 1821, and the " Salem Lyceum," which was formed in 1830. Tlie C'umnioii was reserved " as a training field for the use of Sa- lem," in 1713. It is a beautiful, lev- el spot of ground, surrounded by a double row of elm and other orna- mental trees, and is designed to have a gravel walk around it. The alms house formerly stood upon it, but it is now entirely unencumber- ed. The City Hall was built in 1837. It has a beautiful granite front, and is handsomely finished and furnish- ed within. The Rail-Road from Salem to Boston, was opened for travel, Au- gust 28, 1838 ; thus making Salem, as it were, a part of Boston. The first stage between these cities was run by Ezra Burrill, in 1782. It went to Boston one day and return- ed to Salem the next. Now the dis- tance can be easily passed over in 50 minutes ; and at the same time, the traveller will ride rapidly through a beautiful and picturesque countrj'. See Register. Among the distinguished men, in almost every profession, which Sa- lem claims as among its sons, the name of Nathaniel Bowditch, LL. D.,F. R. S.,authorofthe Prac- tical JYavigator, is identified with its fame and nautical achievements. Dr. Bowditch was born at Salem, March 26, 1773. He was taken from school at the age of 10 years and placed as an apprentice to a ship chandler. At the age of 22 NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. he went to sea and spent nine years in the capacity of captain's clerk, supercarjro, and finally as master of a ship. In 1S04, he became presi- dent of a Marine Insurance Com- pany, in Salem, which office he held until 1S23, when his superior talents called him to liecomo Acuary of the Massachusetts Hospital Life Insur- ance Company, in Boston; the re- sponsible and laborious duties of which office he faithfully discharg;- ed until his death, I\Iarch 16, 1S33. Notwithstanding his limited means of education, Dr. Bowditch acquir- ed, by his extr;iordinarj' genius and economy of time, a perfect knowl- edge of all the modern languages, and became the most eminent math- ematician and astronomer in Amei-- ica. The Practical J\''avigator, has heen translated into every Europe- an lansruage, and its use is co-exten- sive with maritime adventures. Another work of Dr. Bowditch, places his name, as a man of science, still higher on the roll of fame. It is his translation of the Mecanique Celeste of La Place, with an elab- orate and copious commentary on that work, in four large quarto vol- umes. This work was completed just before liis death. The last hours of such a man as Dr. Bowditch, cannot fail to be in- teresting, as they mark his cliarac- ter through life. A friend of his who was present, says, " He did not like to see those about him look sad and gloomy; and he remarked, on one occasion, ' I feel no gloom with- in me ; why sliould you wear it in your faces.'' On the morning of his death, when liis sight was very dim and his voice almost gone, he called his children to his bed side, and, arranging them in the order of age, pointed to and addressed each by name, ' You see I can dis- tinguish you all ; and now I give you my parting blessing. The time is come. ' Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, accor- ding to thy word ?' These were his last words." Salem, Ct. New London co. This town was taken from the towns of Colchester, Lyme and Montville ; but the prin- cipal part from Colchester, and in- corporated in 1819. It comprises an area of six by tire miles of fer- tile and productive land. The in- habitants are generally good farm- ers, who live scattered about on their farms. Population, 1830, 9.5S. Salem is well watered by small streams, and is bounded on the N. E. by a larae and beautiful pond. It lies 29 miles S. E. from Hartfoid, and 13 N. W. from New London. Salisbury, ST. II., Merrimack co., lies 15 miles X. from Concord. Black water river passes through the W. part of Salis- bury. There are 5 bridges across this stream in this town. The soil of the upland is strong, deep and loamy ; the hilly land affords some fine tracts of tillage, but chiefly abounds in excellent pasturage. On Blackwater river, there is some ve- ry fertile intervale, which united with the adjacent hilly land, com- poses several very valuable farms. A considerable portion of Kearsarge mountain ranges within the bounds of Salisbury, the N. W. corner bound of which extends nearly to the summit. There are two very pleasant villages in this town, situ- ated on the 4th N. H. turnpike about 1 1-2 miles apart. Salisbury was incorporated by charter from the government of N. II., March 1, 1768, when it took the name ofSalisbury.lt was settled as early as 1750. The first settlers were Philip Call, Nathaniel Meloon, Benjamin Pettengill, John and Eb- enezer Webster, Andrew Bohon- non, Edward Eastman, and others. The first inhabitants experienced the inroads of the Indians. On the NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. 16th of May, 1753, Nathaniel Me- loon, hving in the \V. part of the town, was captured, together witli his wife, and three children, viz : Sarah, Rachel, and Daniel. They were carried to Canada, where he and his wife were sold to the French in Montreal. The three children were kept by the Indians. After the parents had resided in Montreal about a year and a half, they had a son born, who was baptized by a French friar by the name of Joseph Mary. Mr. Me- loon returned from captivity after four years and a half, to his farm in Salisbury. Sarah died with the In- dians. Rachel, who was 9 years old when captured, returned aftei- 9 years. She had become much attached to the Indians, was about to be married to Peter Louis, son of Col. Louis, of Cognawaga. She had the habits, and acted like an Indian, understood the Indian lan- guage and could sing their songs. Hon. Ebejvezer Webster was one of the early settlers ; a patriot of the revolution; an officer of the militia ; for several years a senator in the legislature, and a judge of the court of common pleas till his death in 1S06. He was the father of the Hon. Ezekiel, and Dan- iel Webster, names well known throughout the country. Popula- tion, in 1830, 1,379. SalislJMry, Vt. Addison co. The widow of Amos Story, with 8 or 10 small children, was the first family that made Salis- bury a permanent residence. She came here in 1775, and endured every hardship incident to the life of a pioncnr; chopping down tim- ber, clearing the land, laboring in the field, and sleeping in a cavern. Mr. Story, was killed by the falling of a tree previous to the removal of his family. The proprietors gave Mrs. Story 100 acres of land for her manly conduct. The soil of the town is generally good ; it con- tains some rough land, and some excellent meadows. It is watered by Otter Creek, Middlebury and Leicester rivers. The latter river affords a good water power, which propels a number of valuable manu- facturing establishments. Leices- ter river is the outlet oi Lake Dun- more, a fine sheet of water, about four miles in length, and three fourths of a mile in width. This lake lies in Leicester and Salisbu- ry. There is a pleasant and tlour- ishing village in the town, and a large cavern supposed to have been an Indian lodging place. Salisbu- ry lies 34 miles S. W. from Mont- pelier, and is bounded N. by Mid- dlebury. Population, 1830, 907. Salisbury, Mass. Essex CO. In 1G3S, this town was granted, by the name of Mer- rimack, to be a plantation, unto Si- mon Bradstrect, Daniel Dennison, and others. The year following it was incorporated by the name of Colchester, and in 1640 assumed, by direction of the then general court, the name of Salisbury. It is seven by three miles in extent, and is bounded southerly by the river Merrimack, westerly by Powow river, which divides it from the town of Amesbury, noi-therly by the New Hampshire line, which separates it from the towns of South Hampton and Seabrook, and easter- ly by the sea. In 1G43, the plantation in New Hampshire, viz. Hampton, Exeter, Portsmouth and Dover, were united to Massachusetts, and, together with Salisbury and Haverhill, form- ed into a new and distinct county, called Norfolk, of which Salisbury was the shire town, and so contin- ued to the year 1679, when New Hampshire was again separated and formed into a royal government. In August, 1737, commissioners, ap- pointed by the crown, met at Hamp- ton falls, for the purpose of settling a controversy, respecting the boun- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. dary line, which had long subsisted between the two governments of Massachusetts and New Hamp- shire. On this occasion the gener- al court of New Hampshire con- vened at Hampton, and that of Massachusetts at Salisburj'. Salis- bury is distant from Ncwburyport, 4 miles, from Haverhill 12, from Ex- eter, N. H. 10, and from Portsmouth 20. Population, in 1S37, 2,675. There are two considerable vil- lages in Salisbury ; the largest is at the westerly part of the town, up- on Powow river at the head of tide water. The village is divided by said river into two pretty equal parts, one in Salisbury-, the other in Amesbury. In that part of the village that lies in Salisbury, are two flannel factories, one 200 feet long and 50 feet wide, the other 100 feet by 10 feet. The establishment is called, the Salisbury Manufac- turing Corporation. Capital ,f 500,- 000. There is also in this village a large tannery, and manufactures of cotton goods, shoes, combs, boats, wherries and molasses casks. The other village is pleasantly situated on the bank of the Merri- mack, on a point of land foi-med by the junction of that river with the Powow; and is generally known by the distinctive name of TVebster's Point. Shipbuilding long has been, and still is, a principal branch of business in this place ; and its char- acter is well established for build- ing excellent vessels. There are now nine sail of vessels owned in this village and employed partlj"- in the coasting trade, and partly in the cod and mackerel fishery. The annual product of the man- ufactures of Salisbury, including vessels, and of the fishery, is about $500,000. Salisbury and Amesbury are fine- ly located for business; the villages are neat and the scenery aiound them vciy pleasant. Salisbury Beach is noted for its beauty, and is much frequented. 32 Salisbury, Ct. Litchfield co. The Housatonick and Salmon rivers give this town a great and constant water power. The surface of Salisbury is formed of lofty elevations and deep val- leys ; but the soil is excellent for all sorts of grain and pasturage. The valleys are generally lime- stone, and the hills granite. The number of sheep kept here in 1837, was 8,999. " Salisbury Centre," a pleasant village, is 58 miles N. W. from New Haven, 50 \V. N. W. from Hartford, 22 N. W. from Litchfield, and 34 N. \V. by W. from Hudson, N. Y. Population, 1S30, 2,580. The Indian luune of the town w;;s IVeatog. It was first settled by the whites in 1720. Salisbury has long been celebra- ted for its excellent iron ore and iron manufactures. The guns on board our favorite frigate, " 0!ii Iron Sides," used by Truxton in the capture of the L'Insurgenie, were made at the old furnace in Salisbury. The "Old Ore Hill," two miles west of IVansropommii.r. lake, has been worked since the year 17."?2. Within the la^t 10 or 15 years, from five to six thousand tons of ore have been dug annually. The ore is sold at the mine for ^3 a ton. One dollar and twenty-five cents is paid to the proprietor of the mine, and the residue to the miner. The first furnace in Salisbury was erected in 1762, at the outlet of Wanscop- ommuc, by S. and E. Forbes, Mr. Hazeltine, and Ethan Allen, the hero of Ticonderoga. A large amount of cannon, balls, and bomb- shells were manufactured here dur- ing the revolutionary war. The large and inexliausiible quan- tities of iron ore found in Salisbury, and the abundant supply of wood for charcoal, and other materials necessary for smelting the ore, to- gether with the superior quality NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. of iron, introduced other manufac- tures ; and iron has continued from that time the staple commodity of the town. There are at present in Salisbury, 4 blast furnaces, 5 forges, with 20 tires, 2 puddling; establishments, 1 screw shop, 1 anchor shop, 2 scythe manufacto- ries, 1 hoe manufactory, 2 trip ham- mers, 2 cupola or pocket furnaces, for small castings. From five to six hundred thousand bushels of charcoal are annually consumed at the ditTerent establish- ments. The puddling furnaces re- quire from two to three thousand cords ot wood annually. The num- ber of workmen emplo\'ed in the ditTerent processes of preparing the material and manufacturing the ii-on, amount in all to about five hun- dred men. The furnaces produce annually from two thousand to two thousand live hundred tons of pig iron. The forges and puddling es- tablishments annually produce from one thousand two hundred to one thousand five hundred tons of wrought iron, which is used for an- chors, car axletrees, musket bar- rels, and various other kinds of drafts. The Salisbury iron ore is the brown hematite, and yields about forty per cent of pig iron. It is well known to manufacturers, and stands as fair in the market as any other iron in the country. Salmon Rivers. Salmon river, in Maine, is a trib- utary to the Penobscot, of about 30 miles in length. Its course is S., and falls into the Penobscot about 4 miles below the union of the east- ern and western branches of that river. Salmon Fall river, Maine and J^ew Hampshire. See Piscata- qua. In this river, between Ro- chester and Lebanon, Maine, is a fall, which, from its singularity, deserves notice. The river is con- fined between two rocks, about 25 feet high, the breadth at the top of the bank not more than three rod?. It is called the flume, and is about four rods in length, its breadth va- rying fi'om two and one half feet to less than one foot ; but here the water has a subterraneous passage. In the rocks are many cavities from one to seven feet in diameter, most- ly cylindrical, and from one to four feet in depth. Salmon Brook. See JVas/twa, JV. H. Salmon river, Connecticut. This beautiful mill stream has its source in the high lands in Tolland coun- ty, and passing south, receiving in its course many valuable tributa- ries, it meets the Connecticut at East Haddam, producing a beauti- ful cataract. There is a river of this name in Salisbury, Ct. Saiiltoriitoii, IV. II., Strafford co., has New Hampton and Meredith on the N.,Gilmanton £. and S. E., Franklin S. and W., and is 20 miles N. from Concord, 60 N. W. from Portsmouth, and 9 W. from Gilford. The bay between Sanbornton and Meredith is 3 miles in width. There are no rivers or ponds of magnitude in this town. Salmon Brook pond, in the N. part, and a brook of the same name, its outlet, are the only ones worth mentioning. This brook passes through the N. W. part of the town, and affords several milt sites. Sanbornton presents an uneven surface, but contains no mountains. The highest hills, with one or two exceptions, admit of cultivation. The soil is almost universally good, and well rewards the labor of pa- tient industry. There is a gulf in this town extending nearly a mile thi-ough very hard rocky ground, 38 feet in depth, the walls from 80 to 100 feet asunder, and the sides so nearly corresponding as to favor an opinion tliat they were once uni- ted. There is also a cavern in the declivity of a hill, which may be NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. entered in a horizontal direction to the distance of 20 feet. This town was once the residence of a power- ful tribe of Indians, or at least a place where they resorted for de- fence. On the Winnepisiogee, at the head of Little bay, are found the remains of an ancient fortifica- tion. It consisted of six walls, one extendinc; alonfjthe rivei-,an(l across a point of land into the bay, and the others in ri^ht angles, con- nected by a circular wall in the rear. Traces of tliese walls are yet to be seen, though most of the stones, &c. of which they were composed have been removed to the dam thrown across the river at this place. Within the fort have been found numbers of Indian relics, im- plements. Sac, and also on an island in the bay. When the first settlers of Sanbornton arrived, these walls were breast high, and large oaks were growing within tlieir enclos- ure. This town was settled in 17G5 and 1766, by John Sanborn, David Duston, Andrew Rowen and oth- ers. It was incorporated in 1770. Population, 1830, 2,866. Saudgate, Vt. Bennington co. The people of this town are favored with moun- tain air, and with crystal streams ■which even the Bostonians might relish. Shettarack and Bald moun- tains are in the N. W. part of the town ; Spruce and Equinox are in the N. E. ; Red mountain is in the S. E., and Swearing hill in the S. W. Between these elevations is some good land, which produces grass and grain ; and which, witli the mountain browse, affords feed for more than 7,000 sheep. Sand- gate was chartered in 1761. It is 20 miles N. from Bennington, and 31 S. by W. from Rutland. Popu- lation, 1830, 933. Sandisficld, Mass. Berkshire co. This is an eleva- ted township at the S. E. corner of the county, on the line of Connec- ticut. It is watered by a pleasant stream, a brancli of P'armington riv- er. The soil is generally good, particularly for pasturage. Consid- erble wool is grown in this town, and a large amount of leather tan- ned. Sandisiield is 124 miles W. by S. from Boston, 18 S. E. by S. from Lenox, and 38 E. from Hudson, N. Y. Incorporated, 1762. Population, 1837, 1,493. Saudo'vvn, N. H., Rockingliam co., is bounded N. by Chester and Poplin, E. by Dan- ville, S. by Hampstead, W. by Chester and Londonderry. It is 31 miles S. E. from Concord, and 26 S. W. from Portsmouth. The sur- face of this town is rather uneven, but the soil in general is well ad- apted to the production of grain and grass. Phillip's pond, lying in the S. part of the town, is the largest, being about 340 rods long, 200 wide. Angle pond, in the S. E. part of this town, is about 200 rods long, and 90 or 100 wide. Tliere are sev- eral other smaller ponds. Squam- scot river flows from Phillip's pond, and pursues a nearly level course for 1 1-2 miles, where another stream unites with it : from this junction, whenever the waters are high, the current passes back with consitlerable force towards the pond. The settlement of Sandown was commenced about the year 1736, by Moses Tucker, and others. — The town was originally a part of Kingston, and was incorporated, 1756. Population, in 1830, 553. Sand-wick, 'S, II. Strafford co. Sandwich is 70 miles N. N. W. from Portsmouth, and about 50 N. from Concord. This town was originally granted by Gov. Benning Wentworth,in 1763, and comprised 6 miles square. On the 5th Sept. 1764, upon the repre- sentation of the grantees that the NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. N. and W. sides thereof were " so loaded with inaccessible mountains and shelves of rocks as to be unin- habitable" — an additional gi'ant was made of territory on the E. and S., called Snndwich Jiddition. Sand- wich mountains are a lofty range extending N. E. and terminating in Chocorua Peak in Albany. Squam mountain, extending from Holder- ness through a corner of Campton into Sandwich, is of considerable height. There are other mountains. The Bearcamp I'iver, its branches rising in the mountains N. and W., passes E. into Tamworth. The W. branch passes through Bearcamp pond. There is anollier pond not far distant from this, from which is- sues Red Hill river, passing S. into the Winnepisiogee lake. A small stream passes W. into the Pemige- wasset river. About one fourth of Squam lake lies in the S. W. corner of Sandwich. This is a flourishing town with a number of mills. Thir- ty thousand pounds of maple sugar was made here in the spiing of 1838. Population, 1830, 2,74-1. Saiidwicli, Mass. Barnstable co. This town is ve- ry pleasantly situated on the shoul- der of Cape Cod, 12 miles S. W. from Barnstable, 30 E. from New Bedford, and 53 S. E. from Boston. Incorporated, 1639. Population, 1830,3,367; 1837, 3,579. Sand- wich is watered by a number of streams which afford a good water power; and by numerous ponds, some of which are large, affoi'ding a variety of excellent tish. The forests afford an abundance of deer, and to the lovers of rural sports, Sandwich and the neighboring towns of Barnstable and Falmouth have justly become favorite resorts. The value of the manufactures of the town for the year ending April 1, 1837, amounted to .$382,248. They consisted of glass, ($300,000) leather, nails, vessels, salt, iron cas- tings, stoves, &c. The value of the New England crown glass has been fully tested and found to be as clear and stionger than any oth- er now in use. Sandwich has a good liarboi-, and about 20 sail of coasting and fishing vessels. It is proposed to unite Massachu- setts and Buzzard's bays by a ship canal through this town. The dis- tance is five miles and the route level. A glance at Mr. Hale's ex- cellent map of New England, shows most conclusively, the immense ad- vantages to be derived by such a work. Sandy Hay, Mass. See Gloucester. Sandy Point, Mass. The most northern extremity of Nantucket Island, on which is a light, 60 feet in height. Sandy River, Me. This valuable mill stream re- ceives its head waters in the coun- ty of Franklin, near Saddleback mountain, and in a winding course through the southern part of that county it enters Somerset county aud Uiingles with the Kennebec at Starks, 37 miles above Augusta. Sandy river is a fertilizing sti-eam ; it receives a number of tributaries, and waters a beautiful portion of the state. Its length is about 45 miles. Sanfoi'd, Me. York CO. Sanford is watered by Mousum river; it has a good water power, and an establishment for the manufacture and printing of cotton goods. Incorporated, 1768. Pop- ulation, 1837, 2,324. It is 94 miles S. W. from Augusta, 35 W. S. W. from Portland, and is bounded S. W. by Alfred Sangerville, Me. Piscataquis co. This beautiful and thriving town is not mountain- ous, but it is so elevated between Penobscot and Kennebec rivers that NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the waters of its ponds meet the ocean by both of those streams. Sangerville is 70 miles N. W. from Augusta, and is bounded by Dover on the W. Incorporated, 1814. — Population, 1S37, 1,115. Wheat crop, same year, 10,792 bushels. Saugatuck River, Ct. See Westport. Saugiis, Blass. Essex CO. Saugus was taken from Lynn in 1815, and derives its name from the Indian name of the river which passes through it. That river is exceedingly crooked in its course, and forms large tracts of meadow. The uplands are uneven and rocky. It lies 10 miles S. W. from Salem, and f) N. by E. from Boston. Population, 18-37, 1,12:3. The value of the manufactures of Saugus, the year ending April 1, 1837, was about $200,000. They consisted of shoes, ($150,000) choco- late, morocco leather, snuflT, cigars, bricks, wool cleaning, and silk and woolen dyeing. Savoy, Mass. Berkshire co. Savoy is an eleva- ted township, and gives rise to branches of Deerfield and Hoosack rivers. The land is generally good, and pastures a considerable number of sheep. It lies 125 miles W. N. W. from Boston, and 20 N. N. E. from Lenox. Incorporated, 1797. Population, 18.37, 917. Saybrook, Ct. Middlesex co. This is one of the most ancient towns in the state. Lord Say and Seal, Lord Brook and other gentlemen in England, dis- satisfied with the government of Charles!., contemplating a removal to this country, procured, in 1632, of Robert, Earl of Warwick, a pa- tent of all the country " which lies west from Narraganset river, a hundred and twenty miles on the sea coast; and from thence in lati- 3-2* tude and breadth aforesaid, to the South Sea." In 1635, they ap- pointed Mr. John Winthrop, a son of the governor of Massachusetts, to buikl a fort on Connecticut river, and appointed him governor for one year. In the summer of 1639, Colonel George Fenwick,one of the paten- tees, arrived from England, and in honor of Lord Say and Seal, and Lord Brook, gave the tract about the mouth of Connecticut river, the name of Saybrook. Colonel Fen- wick superintended the affairs of the colony until 1644, when, his associ- ates having relinquished the design of removal to America, sold the ju- risdiction of Saybrook to the Con- necticut colony. The original limits of the town extended upon the east side of the river for several miles, and included a part of the town of Lyme. The township now comprises three par- ishes, viz: Saybrook, AVestbrook, and Essex. Saybrook parish is the southeast section of the town. The Indian name for this place was Pat- taqunsset. West of this is West- brook parish, which was called by its Indian name Pochaug, until Oc- tober, 1810. North of these two parishes is Pautapoug or Essex. Saybrook is upwards of 7 miles in length from north to south, and averages more than G in breadth. The greater part of the township is uneven and stony. There are, however, some extensive levels, and tracts of rich soil, particularly in the vicinity of Saybrook village, in the southern part of the town. Some of the hills, near Connecticut river, have good granite quarries. There are several small harbors on the Sound, and on Connecticut riv- er, at Saybrook point and Pauta- poug. The bar at the mouth of the Connecticut is an impediment to navigation; vessels of a moderate draught are often obliged to pass it with part of their cargoes. The depth of water at the bar, at spring NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. tides, is about twelve feet. Say- brook harbor is at the mouth of a handsome cove, making up from Connecticut river, and extending west almost to Saybrook village. It is often resorted to by coasters in bad weather. To this pliice the river is open tlirough the winter, and it is here that vessels are frequently laid up, and goods deposited, while the river is frozen over above. Large quantities of fish are taken in this town. The sliad fislierics are numerous, and a source of con- siderable wealth. Connecticut riv- er shad are considered superior to any other in this country. White fish are taken upon the shores of the Sound, and are very valuable for the purposes of manure. They are afforded at a cheap rate ; tiie lightest soils, enriched by them, have produced forty bushels of rye to the acre, and they have an equal- ly advantageous effect upon the growth of corn and potatoes. Saybrook village is 40 miles S. S. E. from Hartford, 34 E. from New Haven, and 18 W. from New London. Population, 1830, 5,018. Besides the business in naviga- tion, the fishery, ship building and quarrying of stone, there are many manufacturing establishments in the several villages in this town. Among the articles manufactured, are augers, gimlets, hammers, steel carriage springs, ivory and iron combs, ink stands, sand boxes, &c. The Borough of Essex is about 7 miles from the mouth of Connec- ticut river, on the west side. It is a place of considerable commerce, navigation and sliip building, with a population of about 1,000. Ship building was commenced in 1740, on the Pochaug, and is still a leading branch of business in the place. There are at present about 15 vessels owned here, principally coasters. It is estimated that there are 1,200 inhabitants in its limits. Saybrook point is a peninsula, circular in its form, and connected with the main land by a narrow neck, over which the tide some- times flows. From this place to the fort, on the eastern extremity of the peninsula, the distance is about one mile. On the neck, a palisado was anciently formed from the river to the cove, to secure Say- brook point from any sudden incur- sion of the Indians. The soil on the peninsula is light and sandy, and the elevation of the highest part is about twenty feet. Being nearly destitute of trees and shrub- bery, it presents to the beholder a bleak and naked aspect. The land on the point was laid out with care, as it was expected to become the residence of great men, and the centre of great business and wealth. It is said that Oliver Cromwell, with other men then equally distinguished, actually em- barked in the Thames, to occupy this ground. Westward of the fort a square was laid out, on which it was intended houses should be erect- ed for Ci'omwell, Pymm, Hasselrig, and Hampden, the most illustrious Commoners in the English annals, who were expected from Europe ; while a square still further west was reserved for public uses. About half way between the palisado was erected the first build- ing designed for the collegiate school, since named Yale College. Thisinstitution was founded in 1700, and remained at Saybrook 17 years. The building was one story in height, and about eighty feet in length. Some remains of the cellar, " over which the ploughshare has passed," are still visible. Fifteen com- mencements were held at Saybrook. More than sixty young men were graduated, most of whom entered the ministry, and some of them be- came characters of distinguished usefulness and excellence. To educate young men of piety and talents for the ministry, was the leading design of this institution. It was desired by the founders and NKW ENGLANO GAZETTEER. Others, that the cliiirclies should liavo a public jitandard or confession of f.iilh, agreeable to which the in- struction of the college should be conducted. This led to the adop- tion of the Saybrooh- Platform, after the commencement in 1708. David Gardiner, was the first white child born in Connecticut. The following was written upon a hlank leaf of an old bible, in pos- session of John G. Gardiner, Esqr., or (iardinoi-'s Island, N. Y. " In the year of our Lord, 1635, tlie 10th of July, came I, Lion Gar- diner and Mary my wife from Wor- den, a town in Holland, wlicre my wife was horn, being the daughter of one Uiricke Willemson deurcant ; lier mother's name was Hachir, and her aunt, sister of her mother, was the wife of Wouter Leanerd- son, old burger Muster, dwelling in the hostrade, over against the Bruserin the Unicorne's head; her brother's name was Punce Garret- son, also old burger Muster. We came from Worden to London, and from thence to New England, and dwelt at Saj'brook fort four years — it is at the mouth of Connecticut river — of which I was commander, and there was born unto me a son, named David, 1635, the 29th of April, the first horn in that place, and 1G38 a daughter was born, named Mary, .30th of August, and then I went to an island of my own, which I had bought and purchased of the Indians, called by lliem Mon- chonack, by us Isle of Wight, and there was born another daughter, named Elizabeth, the 14th Septem- ber, 1G4I, she being the first child of English parents that was born there." Saybrook is a very pleasant town, and full of interesting associations. Saxton's River, Vt., Is formed in Grafton, Windham county, traverses an eastern course about 11) miles, and falls into the Connecticut at Rockingham. It is an excellent mill stream, and derived its name from a Mr. Sax- ton, who was drowned near its mouth. Semitic River, Cti See East Windsor. Scarboroitgli, Mc. Cumberland co. This town lies 105 miles N. E. from Boston, and 60 S. W. from Augusta. It con- tains 30,634 acres of land, and a population of 2,244. A part of this town, called Black point, lying upon the sea, was granted by the council of Plym- outh to Thomas Cammock, in 1631 ; this was soon after settled, and be- came of considerable importance on the coast in the fisheries and trade. The land is held under that ancient grant at the present day. Another settlement was early made by a family of Algers, from England, near the centre of the town, and called Duastan corner, which name it still bears. This was wholly de- stroyed in the Indian war of 1675. It was, liowever, revived by a de- scendant in the female line, through w'hom that race is still perpetua- ted. Scarborough is principally an ag- ricultural town, foi- which purpose it furnishes some rich soil, and has a large quantity of salt marsh. — Ship building, however, continues to be pursued here, although not to the extent it formerly was. Nou- suck river passes through the whole length of the town. Its present name was given to it in 1658, when it submitted to the government of Massachusetts; previously the east- ern side of the river and Marsh was called Black point, and the western. Blue point, names which are still in familiar use. This town has the honor of being the birth place of the distinguished statesman Iturus King, and his half brother, William King, the first governor of Maine. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Schoodic liakes, Me. These are large collections of water, of very irregular form, uni- ted together, by boatable passages, lying principally in Washington county, but extending west into the county of Penobscot. Their out- let is by a large stream of the same name, into the river Saint Croix, on the west side, of about 9 miles in length. These lakes cover a large surface, they are naviga- ble for large boats, and their bor- ders, and indeed the whole country around them, are densely wooded. Vast quantities of timber and lum- ber descend from these waters to the St. Andrews, Eastport and Lubec markets, on the Passamaquoddy. Scitiiate, Mass. Plymouth co. Tliis town, the Indian Satuit, lies at the mouth of North river, in Massachusetts bay, and has a convenient harbor, defend- ed from the violence of the sea by several islands. The J^orth River rises near the sources of the Taunton. It passes Pembroke, Hanover and Marsh- field, and meets the tide water here. This river is very deep, nar- row and crooked, and is noted for the fine ships built on its banks. The manufactures of Scituate con- sist of leather, boots, shoes, tacks, vessels, &c. The value of vessels annually built is about ^40,000. These vessels are of superior me- chanism, and are built of native white oak, remarkable for its dura- bility. There are a number of ves- sels belonging to this town employ- ed in the merchant service and coasting trade. During the year ending April 1, 1837, Scituate had 22 vessels engaged in the fishery : they took 6,500 barrels of macker- el, valued at $46,000. The town extends back from the bay a considerable distance ; it con- tains large tracts of salt meadow and some valuable upland. Scituate is 17 miles S. E. by S- from Boston and 20 N. W. by N. from Plymouth. First settled, 1633, Incorporated, 1637. Population, 1830, 3,470 ; 1837, 3,754. The first settled minister in this town was the Rev. Charles Chauncy. He remained here twelve years previous to his becom- ing the second president of Har- vard College. Rev. Thomas Clapp, president of Yale College, was born in this town, in 1703. He graduated at Harvard College in 1722, and died in 1767. gcitnate, R. I. Providence co. This town was a part of Providence until 1731, wlien it was incorporated. It lies 12 miles W. by S. from Providence, and, in 1830, had 3,394 inhabitants. The surface of the town is diversi- fied by hills and valleys: in the north part of the town the soil is a gravelly loam, better adapted to grazing than tillage. Pawtuxet river with several of its branches give Scituate a good water power, and large manufactories, particular- ly of cotton and wool are found on their banks. There is a valuable quarry of free-stone in the western part of the town. Seabrook, N. H., Rockingham co., is situated atthe S. E. corner of the state, 17 miles S. S. W. from Portsmouth, and 7 N. from Newburyport, bounded N. by Hampton Falls, E. by the Atlan- tic, S. by Massachusetts, W. by South Hampton and Kensington. It was formerly a part of Hampton Falls, and was granted, 1768, to Jona- than Weare and others. Settlements commenced here in 1638. The riv- ers are Black, Brown's and Walton's rivers. Many of the rivulets abound with bog ore of iron. This town derives its name from the number of rivers and rivulets meandering through it. Whale-boat building is NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the most important manufacture, and is carried on to a s^reater extent than in any other town in New Eng- land. Tlie larger part of the male inhabitants are mechanics and sea- men. Perhaps no town in the state is better situated for carryina; on the Bay and Labrador fisheries than this. Population, in 1S30, 1,096. Seacouiiet Rocks, R. I., Or Point. See Little Compion. Searsl>urgli, Vt. Bennington co. Searsburgh is too elevated on the Green Moun- tains either for cultivation, popula- tion, or wool growing. It has -tO in- habitants, and 41 sheep. It is 11 miles E. from Bennington. Searsinoiit, Mc. Waldo CO. Scarsmont has a good soil, and some beautiful ponds. It is a pleasant and flourisliing town, 30 miles E. from Augusta, and 12 S. W. from Belfast. Population, 1837, 1,392. Wheat crop, same year, 2,792 bushels. Seaville, Me. Hancock co. This town was in- corporated in 1S38, and comprises a part of the island and town of Mount Desert, and Bartlett's, Rob- inson's, Hardwooil and other small- er islands on the coast. Sebago Lake, Me. Cumberland co. This is a beau- ful sheet of water, about 12 miles in length, and of various breadths. The widest part is across from Baldwin to Raymond, about 7 miles. It re- ceives the waters of Long and sev- eral other ponds, and of Crooked river, at and from the north. It dis- charges into Casco bay, at Fal- mouth, by the Presuiiipscot. The Cumberland andOxfoid canal, com- pleted in 1829, passes from this lake to Portland, and is the channel of considerable inland trade. Seliago, Me. Cumberland co. This town lies between Sebago lake and Hancock pond, and was taken from Baldwin in 1826. It lies 87 miles S. W. by W. from Augusta, and 30 N. W. from Portland. It has a good soil and is watered bj^ small streams. Population, 1S37, 646. Sebasttcook River, Me. This valuable mill stream rises in Sangerviile, Dover and Dexter, on the border of Penobscot and Piscataquis counties; it passes S. E. and S. through Ripley, Harmo- ny, Hartland and Palmyra to Chand- lerville ; it then runsS. W. through Burnham and tails into the Kenne- bec between Clinton and Winslow, opposite to Watcrville. This stream receives several tributaries; it is about .^0 miles in length ; it has nu- merous falls and passes through a delightful country. Sebec, Me. Piscataquis co. Sebec is a town- ship of good soil, and is well water- ed by Sebec Pond and its outlet, Sebec river, which empties into the Piscataquis, on the north side, in the town of Milo. This town lies 87 miles N. N. E. fi-om Augusta, and 9 N. N. E. from Dover. In- corporated, 1812. Population, 1837, 987. Wheat crop, same year, 7,650 bushels. y men of tliosc names. Dur- ing tlie war these settlements were abandoned, but re-established at its close. Shelburn is finely watered by Piatt river, a pond covering 600 acres, ami by the waters of the lake. Shelburn Bay sets into the town- ship about 4 miles fioin the N. W., and afiords the (own a good harboi', and a depot of (he interior trade on the bcaulilul Champlain. The soil of the town is strong, fertile, and generally well improved. About 10,000 slieep are within its limits. Slielburne, Mass. Franklin co. This town lies on the N. side of Deertield river op- posite to Conway. It is 100 miles W. by N. from Boston, and 5 W. from Greenfield. Population, 1837, 1,018. Incorporated, 1768. Deer- field river falls in this town a ui-iie, "Vt. Rutland co, Killington Peak, 3,924 feet in height, several ponds, and Thundering brook, with a hand- some fall, lie in this town. Queechy river rises in this town, and along its banks is some good land; but the lands are generally too elevated even for pasturage. Sherburne was first settled in 17S.5. It lies 22 miles N. W. from Windsor, and 10 E. fi-om Rutland. Population, 1S30, 4.32. Sherburne, mass. Middlesex co. This town is wa- tered by Charles and Sudbury ri\r- ers. It is IS miles S. W. by W. from Boston, and 15 S. from Con- cord. Population, 1837,1,037. In- corporated, 1674. The soil of Shei'- burne is very good and pi-oductive. The village is on elevated land ; it is pleasant, a«d commands good pros- pects. The manufactures of the town consist of straw lionnets, boots, shoes, leather, axes, forks, plougns, muskets and whips : annual value, about ,$G0,000. Sliei'inau, Ct. Fairfield co. Sherman was for- merly the north part of New Fair- tield,and incorporated in 1802. Pop- ulation, 1830, 947. It is 60 miles S. W. from Hartford, 13 N. from Dan- bury, and bounded W. by the state of New York. There is a variety of soils in the town, but they are generally strong, warm, and pro- ductive of grass and grain. A branch of the Housatonick waters the town. Iron ore is found here. Slietiicket River, Ct. This fine mill sti-eam receives its head waters by several branches in the counties of Windham and Tol- land. It passes between Lisbon and Franklin and uniting with the Quinnebaug at Norwich, Hows in- to the Thames. Its principal bran- ches are the Natchaug and Willi- m an tic. Sliirley, Me. Piscataquis co. This town was in- corporated in 1834. It was former- ly No. 3 in the 4th range of the Bingham Purchase. It is watered by the higher branches of Piscata- quis river, and lies about 76 miles N. by E. from Augusta. Popula- tion, 1837, 213. Sliirley, Mass. Middlesex co. This is a very pleasant agricultural and manufac- turing town, 32 miles N. W. from Boston, 16 N. W. fi-om Concord, and 18 S. W. from Lowell. There are some elevations in the town, but of warm and fertile soil. There are large tracts of intervale land along the streams, which are very fertile and valuable. Shirley is separated from Groton by Nashua river, and from Pcp])erel! by the Squanicook, a branch of the Nashua. These streams afford Shir- ley a tine water power, which ren- ders it an excellent location for man- ufacturing establishments. There are 1 woolen and 3 cotton mills in the town, and manufactures of boots, shoes, paper, leather, palm-leaf hats, &c. Annual value, about ,'1^125,- 000. Population, 1837, 967. Slioreliain, Vt. Addison co. This town lies on the east side of Lake Champlain, and is watered by Lemonfair river, a jrood mill stream. It is 12 miles NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEEn. S. W. fiom Middlebury, and 26 N. from Whitelmll, N. Y. The lake here is about a mile wide. Popu- lation, IS.'JO, 2,137. The surface of the town is level and the soil re- markably good. This is one of the best farming towns in the state. In 1837, there was 26,334 sheep in Shoreham. There are some manu- factures in the town, and a pleasant and flourishing village on the banks of the lake. Most of the waters here are impregnated with Epsom salts. See Bridport. Shoreham was first settled in 1766, by a number of persons who adopted the plan of holding all things in common. This mode of holding property was, however, relinquish- ed about the time of the revolu- tionary war. SUre-\vsbury, Vt. Rutland co. This town lies 22 miles W. from Windsor and 9 S. E. from Rutland. Population, in 1830, 1,289. Thi'- is a mountainous township, having Shrewsbury Peak within its limits, a summit 4,034 feet above the sea. Mill and Cold riv- ers and Peal's and Ashley's Ponds water the town, and fall into Otter Creek. There is some good land in this mountain town, and between three and four thousand sheep graze on its surface. Slire'»vsbiiry, Mass. Worcester co. This is an agri- cultural town of a pleasing variety of surface, and good soil, 36 miles W. by S. from Boston and 6 E. from 'Worcester. Quinsigamond or Long Pond lies principally in this town. It is nearly four miles in length and from 40 to 2.50 rods in width. It empties into the Blackstone river and canal, and produces a consider- able hydraulic power. A floating bridge crosses this pond for the ac- commodation of the Worcester turn- pike, 525 feet in length, built in 1818, and cost $6,000. The manufactures of Shrewsbury consist of clothing, guns, hats, chairs, straw bonnets, leather, boots, shoes, &,c : the value of which, dur- ing the year ending April 1, 1837, was ,$211,287. The town was in- corporated, 1727. Population, 1830, 1,.3S6; 1837, 1,.507. Levi Pease, the father of mail stages in this country, was a native of this town. He died here in 1824, aged 86. Mr. Pease was a man of great enterprise ; he projected the first turnpike road in New England, and to his zeal and sacrifices the public is more indebted than to any other man for its excellent mail es- tablishment. At the time Mr. Pease started his first line of mail stages between Boston and New York, in 17S4, the mail between those places passed only once a fort- night, on horseback, in a pair of saddlebags. Sliiitestoury, Mass. This town is on high land, 10 miles E. from Connecticut river, 9 N. by E. from Amherst, 16 S. S.E. from Greenfield, and 78 W^. by N. from Boston. Incorporated, 1761. Population, 1837,816. Copper ore, and soapstone, are found here. On Swift river are three shingle mills and a wheel factory. There is a mineral spring of some note in this town, containing, in solution, iron, sulphur, &c. There is also a pond, covering about 700 acres, with an abundance of fine fish. Ephraim Pratt lived in this town many years, and died here in 1804, aged 116 years. He married at the age of 21, and could count 1,-500 descendants. He was a very tem- perate man, so much so that for 40 years he took no animal food. He was a farmer, and his health was so uniformly good that he was able to mow a good swath 101 years in suc- cession. He was born at Sudbury, 1687. Sidney, Me. Kennebec co. Sidney is very NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. pleasantly situated on the west side of Kennebec river, and watered by a large and beautiful pond lying in this town and }3elgrade. It is bounded N. by Watervillc, and is 12 miles N. from Augusta. Incor- porated, 1792. Population, 1837, 2,346. Wheat ciop, same year, 6,569 bushels. Smisl>tiry, Ct. Hartford co. The territory of this town was fornicily a part of Windsor: its Indian name was Mas- sacoe, and was incorporated in 1670. The surface of the town is greatly diversified by hills and valleys : a range of mountains pass through the town, and there is some level and gooti land within its limits on Farniington river. Population, 1830, 2,221. Tariffville, a flourishing village, is situated at the northeastern ex- tremity of this town, on the west bank of the Farniington river, which at this place passes south, at the base of a range of mountains, which divides this part of the State from the great valley of Connecticut river. This place is a carpet man- ufacturing village, owned principal- ly by a company called the " New England Car])et Company ;" they employ 175 hands, and manufacture yearly about 132,000 yards of car- peting. This flourishing village is between three and four miles south of Simsbury mines, in Granby,near the New Haven and Northampton canal, and 12miles N.W. from Hart- ford. Skitticook River, Me. This is the most northern and eastern branch of the Matawam- keag. Skootmn liake, Me. A sheet of water of considerable size, (he outlet of which passes through Kilmarnock. Sko-*vliegan, Me. Somerset co. This town was for- merly called Milburn: it took the Indian name of the place in 1836. It is situated on the N. side of Ken- nebec river, at Skowhegan Falls. The river runs here in an eastern direction. The local situation of Skowhegan, its admirable water power, and the fertility of the adja- cent country, united with the en- terprise of its inhabitants, has ren- dered the place, but recently a wil- derness, one of the best cullivated townships in the state, the site of a great number of mills, and a mart of an extensive trade. There is much delightful scenery about Skowhe- gan ; the village is neatly built, and its beauty is much enhanced by the whiteness of the houses contrasted with the blue and green of the riv- er and its banks. Between Skow- hegan and Bloomfield is a small isl- and in the river. Across this isl- and are noble bridges uniting the (owns. This place lies 5 miles be- low Norridgewock and 33 N. from Augusta. Population, 1830,1,006; 1837, 1,433. Slaterville, R. I. We regret to state that no ac- count of the manufactures of this interesting manufacturing village has been received. See Smithfield. i^niall, Cape, Me. Tlie eastern boundary of Casco Bay. Smitlifielrt, R. 1. Providence co. This is a large town, containing an area of about 10 by 6 miles, and a great variety of surface ami soil. Smithfield has generally an un- dulating surface, presenting an agreeable diversity of moderate em- inences and gentle declivities; but in some sections it is considerably rough and broken. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. The manufacture of lime is an important and extensive business, and alTbrds employment to a great number of persons. Tliere is also a quarry of white stone at what is called Woonsockct hill, that sus- tains heat remarkably well, whieh renders it very valuable for furnace hearths. About two miles distant from this, there is a quarry, contain- ing excellent whetstones, for edge tools. The soil is a gravelly and sandy loam, with some sections of a cal- careous loam. It is generally rich and fertile, although in some places it has been reduced by an exhaust- ing system of cultivation. There are, however, some low and marshy tracts, which ai-e generally appro- priated to mowing, and afford good crops of grass. The agricultural productions consist of the various articles common to the climate ; Indian corn, rye, wheat, barley, oats, potatoes, flax, beef, pork, butter, cheese, apples, cider and hay. The waters of the town consist of the Blackstone, which washes its northeastern border, and a branch of this river, nearly of equal size, which intersects the town, dis- charging its waters into the former, in the northern section of the town. After the union of these streams, the Blackstone is from one to two hundred feet in width. At some seasons of the year, it overflows its hanks, and has been known to rise from 1-5 to 20 feet above its usual height. Besides these, there are niimerous small streams, some of which afford valuable sites for mills and manufacturing establishments, which are mostly occupied. In the south part of the town, within about 4 miles from Providence, there is a considerable body of wa- ter, called Scots Pond. It is near- ly a mile in length, about half a mile in width, and of great depth. What is remarkable in this pond, is •33* the steep descent of its shores. Cases have occurred, of persons being drowned in attempting to water their horses at this pond. There is a remarkable fall of wa- ter upon the Blackstone river, call- ed Woonsocket falls, which is con- sidered as quite a curiosity. The fall is about 20 feet, not perpendic- ular, but over a precipice of I'ocks for some distance. The fall of the water upon these rocks through a succession of ages, has occasioned numerous excavations, all of which are smooth and circular, and some of them very large, being sufficient to contain several hogsheads. The beautiful village of TVooii- socket is situated at these falls, on the line of Cumberland ; the river dividing the towns, and the village into nearly equal parts. In this village are 15 cotton and 2 satinet factoi-ies, a large furnace, machine shops, sash factory, &,c. The Black- stone canal passes through this village, and it is in contemplation to construct a rail road to meet the Boston and Providence rail road, either at Providence or at Dedham, Mass. This village is indeed a beautiful place, and exceedingly flourishing. It is 14 miles N. N. W. from Providence. Slaterville is another beautiful village in this town, on Branch rivei-, about 2 miles W. from Woon- socket. Smithfield is a large manufactur- ing town, containing many other pleasant villages, almost exclusive- ly devoted to manufacturing ob- jects. The ceiitre of the town lies 9 miles N. W. from Providence. Incorporated, 1730. Population, in 1830, 6,857. Smith's River, BT. H. Grafton co. This river rises froni several ponds in Grafton and Or- ange, and after pursuing a winding, but generally an east course, of from 12 to 18 miles, through Dan- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. bury and Alexandria, falls into tlie Peniigewasset, between Bristol and Hill. Solou, Me. Somerset co. Solon is a flourish- ing farming town, on the east side of Kennebec river, opposite to Embden. It lies 44 miles N. by "VV. from Augusta, and 18 N. from Norridgewocif. Population, 1830, 768; 1837, 1,129. Wheat crop, 1837, 6,567 bushels. The town is well watered by a pond and several streams : it has a pleasant village, and some manufactures. Somers, Ct. Tolland co. This town lies 22 miles N. E. from Hartford, 10 N. by W. from Tolland, and 12 S. E. from Springfield, Mass. First set- tled, 1713. It was incorporated by Massachusetts in 1734, and named in honor of Lord Somers, at the re- quest of Governor Belcher. Part of the town is level, and productive of grass and grain, and part is quite elevated, producing good pasturage for sheep, and pre- senting delightful views of the val- ley of Connecticut river. It is wa- tered by Scantic river. Somers has a very neat village, in which is a large establishment for the manufacture of straw bon- nets. Population, 1830, 1,429. Somerset County, Me, JSTorridgewock, chief town. — Previous to the formation of Piscat- aquis and Franklin counties, in 1838, for which purpose a consider- able portion of Somerset was taken, this county contained an area of about 8,785 square miles. Incor- porated, 1809. About one third of this territory may be said to be set- tled, incorporated or granted, the residue, a wilderness. Its popula- tion, in 1820, was 21,787; 1830, 33,588 ; 1837, 40,963. Population to a square mile, 4 1-2. Gain in population, in seven years, 22 per cent. The present county of Somerset is bounded N. by Lower Canada, E. by Piscataquis and a part of Penob- scot counties, S. by the counties of Kennebec and Franklin, and W. by Franklin county and Lower Can- ada. This county is watered by many ponds, some of the large tributa- ries of the Kennebec, and by the upper waters of many other im- poi-tant rivers in Maine ; but its chief river is the noble Kennebec, which enters the county at its rise from Moose Head lake, and passing from that lake, which skirts the east- ern boundary of the county, it tra- verses nearly in its centre about 75 miles. This river serves, at pres- ent, as a great thoroughfare to the ocean for an immense amount of timber, lumber and wood, the first fruits of the industry of pioneers to a heavily timbered country ; and, in after times, will serve for the transportation of the productions of a fertile soil to distant mai'kets, and of the wants of the inhabitants from abroad. The surface of this county is di- versified by considerable eleva- tions and extensive valleys, which give it a varied and pleasing as- pect. With the exception of the mountain range, which skirts the bounds of Canada, and the Bald Mountain ridge, nearly in the cen- tre of the county, IMount Bigelow and Mount Abraham, on the bor- der of Franklin county, are the most lofty. So far as the march of iniprove- ment has been made in this interior and almost wilderness county, the soil of the lands, generally, is found to be fertile, as easy of cultivation, and as productive of all the varie- ties of grasses, grains, vegetables and fruits, as any portion of New Eng- land, with very few exceptions. The more interior portions of the NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. county, those watered by the up- per I)ranches of the Penobscot and Walloomstook, now a wilderness, are said to be the most fertile. In 1837, there were in the old county of Somerset, 77,921 sheep; and, durin<:j tliat year, it produced 239,- 332 bushels of wheat, being the largest quantify of that valuable grain produced by any county in Maine, and probably by any county in New England. Somerset, A't. Windham co. Mount Pisgah and otlier elevations give to the sur- face of this township so rough and drear an aspect, tliat but few are bold enough to attempt the cultiva- tion of its soil. It is watered by the upper brandies of Deerlield river. Population, 1S30, 245. Somerset stayuls 15 miles N. E. from Bennington, and 14 W. from Nevvfane. It would put the neigh- boring towns into a pretty pickle if it should turn a Soinerset. Somerset, Mass. Bristol CO. This town is pleas- antly situated on the northern side of Taunton river, opposite to Fall River, and is the proposed depot of a rail road from Fail River to Provi- dence, R. I. It is 16 miles S. E. from Providence, 13 S. from Taun- ton, and 45 S. from Boston. Popu- lation. 1S37, 1.063. Incorporated, 1790. There are some manufactures of stone and earthcrn wares, but ship building is the principal branch of mechanics in the town. Somers'wortli, IV. II. Strafford co. This town was for- merly a part of Dover. It was in- corporated in 1754. It is bounded N. W. by Rochester, N. E. by Sal- mon fall river, which divides it from Berwick, Me., and S. W. by Do- ver. It is 11 miles N. by W. from Portsmoutli and 45 E. from Concord. The W'liitc Mountains may be ' seen from the summit of Otis' hill ; also the steeples of the meeting houses in Poi-tsmouth, and the masts of the shipping in the harbor. The soil of this town is well adapted to Indian corn, and almost all kinds of grain and grass. The tide tlows on the east side of this town, four miles to Quamphcgan falls. The river is of sutiicient dei)th, till within a mile of said falls, for vessels of 250 tons. The S. part of this town is bounded on Cocheco river, fiom ils confluence with the Piscataqua to the mouth of Fresh creek, near a mile ; and from thence by said creek to its head, nearly a mile and a half. There are but two ponds of note in this town : Humphrey's pond on the line of Dover, 200 rods long and 120 rods wide ; and Cole's pond, 150 rods long and 75 wide. Red and yellow ochre, also iron ore, have been found in this town. The ochre has been used in paint- ing houses, and has been found to make a durable paint. At Great Falls, are extensive manufactories, and a large and beautiful village. This town was settled between 16.50 and 1700, by William Went- worth and others. Many of the llrst settlers were killed or taken captive and carried to Canada. Eb- enezer Downs, who was a quaker, was taken by the Indians at Indigo hill, in 1724, and carried to Canada. He was grossly insulted and abused by them, because he refused to dance as the other prisoners did for the diversion of their savage cap- tors. Nicholas Pike, author of a popular system of arithmetic, was born in this town, October 6, 1743. John Wentworth, son of the Hon. John Wentworth, was born in this town, July 14, 1745; and was graduated at Hai-vard college, 176S. He entered on the study of the law, and settled at Dover. When ap- plication was made to him to put an NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. action in suit, it was his practice to see the parties or to write to them, stating- the consequences of a legal process, and advising them to set- tle their differences between them- selves. By this mode of procedure he was instrumental in preventing many vexatious lawsuits ; and was entitled to the appellation of peace- maker. He was a member of the continental congress in the revolu- tion, and died January 10, 17S7. Hon. Thomas Wallingford, was born at Bradford, IMass., in 1697. He came to this town in the early part of his life ; and by a dili- gent application to bvisiness, from a small beginning became one of the richest men in the province. IcHABOD Rollins, was born in Somersworth in 1721. He was a judge of probate for the county of Strafford, and' died January 31, 1800. Population, in 1830, 3,090. Soiicooli Ktver, W. II., Has its source in three ponds in the south part of Gilmanton, lying near each other, called Loon, Rocky and Shellcamp ponds. It passes through Loudon, receiving several branches, and forms the boundary between Concord and Pembroke, falling into the Merrimack below Garvin's falls. Soiiliegaii River, N. H. Originally Soiihegenach, the name of a river in Hillsborough county, and the former name of Amherst and Merrimack. The principal branch of this river originates from a pond in Ashburnham, Mass. It passes N. through Ashby, at the N. W. angle of the county of Mid- dlesex, into New Ipswich, and through Mason, Milford, Amherst, into INIerrimack, where it unites with Merrimack river. In its course it receives several streams from Temple, Lyndeborough and Mount Vernon, and just before it falls into the Merrimack, receives Babljoo- snck brook, a considerable stream issuing from Babboosuck pond. See Amherst. Soutli Hamptou, N. H., Rockingham co., is bounded N. by East Kingston and Kensington, E. by Seabrook, S. by Amesbury, Mass., W. by Newtown; and is 50 miles S. E. from Concord, and 18 S. S. W. from Portsmouth. The surface is generally even, and the soil of a good quality. Pow- ow river passes through this town, affording valuable mill seats. South Hampton was incorporated in 1742. Hon. Phillips White, who was a member of the old congress, a counsellor in 17.92 and 1793, and for many years judge of probate, died June 21, ISll, aged 82. Pop- ulation, 1830, 487. Sovittiamptoii, Mass. Hampshire co. Manhan river waters the town and affords it mill privileges. The Farmington canal passes through the eastern part.. Lead in various forms and qualities is found here, and here is a subter- raneous passage leading to the lead mine in SVesthampton. There are some manufactures in the town, but the people are generally em- ployed in agricultural pursuits, and the soil is well adapted to that pur- pose. Southampton is pleasantly situa- ted, 9 miles S. W. from Northamp- ton, and 97 W. by S. from Boston. Incorporated, 1753. Population, 1837, 1,216. Soiitli Ber-^viclt, Me. York CO. This town is situated on the N. E. side of Salmon Fall river, 97 miles S. W. from Augusta, and 10 W. N. W. from York. The limits of the town have recently been increased by the addition of a poi'tion of the territory of York. It was incorporated in 1814. Pop- ulation, 1830, 1,577 ; 18.37, 2,342. The Great Falls on the river at this place afford an hydraulic power of NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. great magnitude and value. Man- ufacturing operations coinnienced here many years ago, and have been gradually increasing ; but in 1837, the " Great Works Manul'acturing Company" was incorporated. This comi)any have a large capital, and are nialung arrangements for man- ufacturing on an extensive scale. When it is considered that this place is located an navigable waters, and only about a dozen miles from the beautiful harbor of Portsmouth, by water, these operations promise a favorable result, both to individual enterprise and the public. The village of South Berwick is pleasantly situated ; it is a place of considerable trade, and in the vicin- ity of delightful scenery. SouthborougU, Mass. ■Worcester co. This town was taken from Marlborough in 1727. It has a good soil, and is well culti- vated by industrious and skillful farmers. It is watered by a branch of Sudbury river, and has man- ufactures of woolen cloth, boots, shoes, and straw bonnets : annual value, about $50,000. The Boston and Worcester rail road passes through this pleasant town. It lies 26 miles W. from Boston, and 15 E. from Worcester. Population, 1837, 1,113. SoatUliridge, Mass. Worcester co. Southbridge was taken from Sturbridge in 1814. — Population, 1830, 1,444 ; 1837, 1740. It is 54 miles S. W. from Boston, and 19 S. S. W. from Worcester. This town is watered by the Quin- neboag, a branch of the Thames, and a good mill stream. There are one woolen and three coKon mills in Southbridge, and manufactures of boots, shoes and cutlery : the value of which, for the year ending April 1, 1837, was ,$2()2",212. This town has an excellent soil and a pleasant and flourishing village. Soutlibury, Ct. New Haven co. The principal village in this town is pleasantly situated on the Pamperaug, a fine mill stream, which passes through the town. This village is 20 miles N. W. from New Haven, and 40 S. W. from Hartford. The village of South Britain is about 4 miles S. W. from the princi- pal or central village : it is a t^our- ishing place, containing a num- ber of neat buildings, a carpet and several hat factories. This village is surrounded by high hills and precipices, and lias a romantic and picturesque appearance. The sur- face of the town is generally un- even : there is some good meadow land on Housatonick, Pamperaug, and Shepaug rivers, and the up- lands are warm and productive. Some traces of coal have been dis- covered. The northern part of the town is called " White Oak," from an oak tree under which the first persons who explored the town encamped. Pieces of this tree are considered by some as precious relics. South- bury was formerly attached to Litchfield county. It was a part of Woodbury, and was first settled about the year l(j72. It was incor- porated as a distinct town in 1786. Population, 1830, 1,557. South Hadley, Mass. Hampshire co. Nature and art seem to have united to render this an interesting place. The falls on the Connecticut are 50 feet ; not perpendicular, but in so short a distance as to render the river very rapid. These falls. Mount Hol- yoke at the north part of the town, and Mount Tom on the west side of the river, with the luxuriant mead- ows along this beautiful stream, would form a picture of no ordinary character. These falls are ren- dered passable for freight and steam NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. boats by a canal of about two miles in length. In this canal is a cut through solid rock, 40 feet in depth and 300 feet in length. The hy- draulic power, at this place, is very great, having the whole volume of Connecticut river and some smaller streams at command for manufac- turing purpo:ies. Much of the water power is yet unimproved, but its local situation is such as to insure its usefulness as the manu- facturing interests of New England increase. There are in South Had- ley 3 paper and 2 woolen mills, and manufactures of leather, boots, shoes, pearl buttons, iron, &c. : to- tal value, the year ending April 1, 1837, $237,650. South Hadley lies on the east side of Connecticut river, 90 miles, W. from Boston, and 5 S. by E. from Northampton. Incorporated in 1753. Population, 1837, 1,400. Soutli Hero, Vt. Grand Isle co. Lake Champlain bounds this town on all sides. — The passage in the lake however, is very narrow between the towns of N. and S. Hero. It lies 12 miles N. W. from Burlington, and 16 S. S. W. from St. Albans. The lake is fordable a considerable part of the year on the Vermont side. This town was formerly a part of North Hero, and was separated from it in 1788. First settled, 17S4. Popu- lation, 1830, 717. South Hero con- tains an area of about 9,065 acres of level land of an excellent soil. Its basis is limestone. It is suppos- ed that all the lands of this island county were once covered by the waters of the lake, as clam shells are found incorporated with the rocks in the highest places. The scenery around these islands is beautiful. This vicinity was a fa- vorite resort for the Indians, as ap- pears from a large number of their implements found on the islands. It seems they manufactured hatch- ets, spear heads, chisels, arrows, and a variety of other implements at this place, from a Hint stone not found in this region, but brought from a distance. This town fur- nishes a great abundance of food for the inhabitants, and some for ex- portation. It feeds about 6,200 sheep. This is a pleasant stopping place for the angler, the painter or the geologist. SoiitJiington, Ct. Hartford co. Soulhingfon was taken from Farmington in 1779. There are some elevations in the town, particularly in the eastern part ; but the soil is generally very good for all kinds of grain and the pasturage of cattle. It is watered by the Quinnepiack, and the Far- mington canal passes through it. It contains a neat village, IS miles S. W. from Hartford and 21 N. from New Haven. Population, 1830, 1,844. The inhabitants are generally en- gaged in agriculture ; yet several kinds of manufactures receive con- siderable attention. Peck's patent for machines for making tin ware, a most valuable invention, is exclu- sively owned in this town, and the business of making them is exten- sively carried on, by Peck &. Co., whose manufactory supplies almost the whole of the United States and the British provinces. The manu- facture of water cement is very extensively carried on in this town, and furnishes a supply for the wants of tlie vicinity, and some for distant markets. There is an establish- ment for the manufacture of lasts, which are turned out by a machine : this is effected by having a model of the shape wanted, inserted into the apparatus connected with the machinery. Besides the above, there is a brass foundiy; and sev- eral other establishments, for man- ufacturing various articles, such as saws of different kinds, tin ware, combs, spoons, clocks, brushes, &c., are in operation, more or less ex- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. tensivcly, at different times, accor- ding to the demands of the market. Copper has been discovered, in sev- eral places, in the range of moun- tains on the eastern bolder of the town. Soutli Kliugston, R. !• W'ashington co. Chief town. This town was formerly a part of North Kingston, and was lirst set- tled in 1670. It is the largest town in the State, comprising 98 square miles, and within its limits is the noted Point Judith. It has an uneven surface, a soil of a gravelly loam, based on a granite foundation. Large quantities of grain of vari- ous kinds and of the productions of the dairy are annually sent to mar- ket from this town ; also the fleeces of about 7,-500 sheep. This town possesses great- navigable advan- tages ; its eastern and southern borders being washed by the At- lantic ocean and Narraganset bay. It contains a great number of fresh water ponds, and a large salt pond : one of the fresh water ponds, cov- ers an area of between three and four thousand acres. The fisheries on the shores and in the ponds of South Kingston are of considerable extent and value. The fish taken are principally bass, alewives, perch and smelts. Some portion of the inhabitants follow a maritime life for a livelihood. The principal village in South Kingston is improperly called " Lit- tle Rest Hill," for it is quite a snug and comfortable place. It lies 30 miles S. from Providence, and 9 S. from North Kingston. Population, 1830, 3,663. Soutli Readin;^, Mass. Middlesex co. This town was taken from Reading in 1812. It lies 10 miles N. from Boston, 18 E. by N. from Concord, and 10 W. from Salem. Population, 1S30, 1,310; 1837, 1,483. The manufactures of the town consist ofshoes,cabinet ware, chairs, shoe tools, razor straps, block tin and tin ware : annual value, about $60,000. This town contains a large and beautiful pond, the source of Sau- gus river. The village is compact, neat and flourishing. Soutli^vccli, Mass. Hampden co. This town is bounded S. by the state of Con- necticut, and is 100 miles W. by S. from Boston, and 10 W. S. W. from Springfield. Incorporated, 1779. Population, 1S37, 1,291. It is watered by a considerable stream, and several ponds in the town sup- ply water for the Farmington canal, which passes through Southwick. The manufactures consist of gun- powder, leather, and distilled spir- its : annual value, about ,"{^70, 000. The surface of the town is eleva- ted, but the soil is generally good, particularly for grazing. The val- ue of wool sheared in 1837, was $2,125. So^'acialjacoolc River, Me. Penobscot co. This stream falls into the Penobscot at Hampden, 5 miles below Bangor. Within 3 miles of its mouthit falls 120 feet, furnishing many valuable mill priv- ileges. The main branch, which rises in Stetson, unites with the Harvey stream from Levant, and tiie Kinsley stream from Etna, both affording excellent mill sites, near the village in Carmel. Below these, the Sowadabscook is deep and sluggish, from 15 to 25 yards in width, (lowing through extensive meadows, and the Gri.'at and Little ponds in Hermon, with very little descent, to the head of the tails in Hampden. Near the east line of Carmel, this stream comes within about 20 rods of the Little Kendus- keag, a stream which flows tlirough the N. E. part of Carmel, from Le- vant to Bangor; and the two streams are united by a branch fiom 20 to NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. 30 feet wide and 3 feet deep, called the Cross. The Kenduskeag is so rapid that it rises and falls much quicker than the Sovvadabscook. When the streams are rising, the current in the Cross sets towards the Sowadabscook, and when falling, towards the Kenduskeag. The country watered hy the Sowadabscook is generally rather level and free from hills, though there are many swells of very fine farming land. In the towns of Hermon and Hampden is a large tract, very little elevated above the level of the stream, and liable to be overilowed by freshets. It is too low for settlement, and is chiefly covered with wood. The improve- ment of this land requires too great an outlay of capital for a new coun- try, but it will probably at some time be among the most valuable in this country for mowing. There are on this stream, in Hampden, five superior saw mills, a grist and paper mill, and the privi- leges are excelled by few in New England. Upon the Kenduskeag are 9 mills below the Cross, many of them superior double mills. The pine timber has been cut off upon the waters of this stream to such an extent, as to give a high value to that which remains, and to the hem- lock timber, of which there are great quantities of fine quality. Since our first pages went to press, we have received, from an obliging friend, the following infor- mation in regard to Carmel. The township of Carmel, border- ing on the Sowadabscook, is a verj' level tract of land ; most of it of a very light and fertile soil, free of stone. The valleys have a fine growth of pine timber, which has been carefully preserved by the owners, and may be run, by means of the Cross, at a small expense, either to Bangor or Hampden. — There is probably no town in this section of the county, in which there was originally so valuable a growth of pine, or in which there is so large a quantity remaining. The swells are large, and are cov- ered with the rock maple, beech, birch, &c., and are of a very supe- rior quality for tillage. Near the streams are large tracts of intervale of great fertility, and making very fine meadows. There is little waste land in the town. The swamps are few and of small extent, but fur- nish cedars in sutficient quantities for fencing, for which use they are the finest and most durable mate- rial. The settlement of tins town is >-apidly progressing, and many of the farms recently cleared are very supei'ioi', and the buildings, fences, and improvements, show an active, industrious and enterprising peo- ple. The village near the centre of tiie town, is a very thriving and active place of business, on the stage road from Bangor to Skowhe- gan, 13 miles W. from Bangor, and 11 W. N. W. from Hampden. Here are four stores, two taverns, an apothecary shop, potash, black- smiths, coopers, shoemakers, join- ers, and other shops ; an extensive tannery, mills, &c., and a meeting house is about being built. In the town are five good school houses, five saw mills, a clapboard and shin- gle mill, grist mill, and clothing mill. There are found in this town some fine specimens of petrified shells, at an elevation of 125 to 130 feet above the Penobscot, and near the banks of the stream, showing that this valley was once covered by the ocean. The roads in the towns watered by this stream are exceedingly well made, and creditable to the inhab- itants, though it is remarkable, that several of them, which were made in the early settlement, pass over decidedly the most inferioi- lauds in those towns. This is particularly NEAV ENGLa.,x^ gazetteer. true of the road from Hampden through Cariiiel and Etna to New- port: and the settlement of this section was formerly retarded, with- out doubt, by the unfavorable im- pression createil by this circum- stance. The projected rail road from Bangor to Augusta is survey- ed to pass through this town, near the bank of the stream ; and the level character of the country is exceedingly well adapted for that purpose. Spaffbrd's Lake, N. H. See Chesterjield. Speckled Mouutain, Me. Oxford CO. This mountain lies on the line of New Hampshire,^ partly in the town of Riley, and is said to be 4,000 feet above .sea level. Spencer, Mass. Worcester co. Seven Mile riv- er, a branch of the Chickopee, wa- ters this town. There are two woolen mills in the town, and man- ufactures of scythe snaiths, straw bonnets, boots, shoes, leather, cab- inet ware, chairs, palm-leaf hats, harnesses, and barrels : annual val- ue, about $S0,000. This townsiiip is quite elevated for the section of country in which it lies. It is stated to be the sum- mit level between the waters of Uoston harbor and Connecticut riv- er, 950 feet above the former, and .SSO feet above the latter. The surface of the town is agreeably varied by hills and valleys: the soil is fertile, and cultivated by men of industry and independence. Spencer is .52 miles W. from Bos- ton, and 12 W. from Worcester. Population, in 1830, l,f)18 ; 18.37, 2,085. It was taken from Leices- ter in 1753. Splggot River, N. H., Rises in Hanipstead, and passes through Salem, and into the Merri- 34 mack between Methnen and Dra- cut, Mass., nearly opposite Shaw- sheen river, which comes from the S., through Andover. Sjilit, Cape, Me. See Addison. Springfield, Me. Penobscot co. The Matakeunk, a branch of the Matawamkeag, rises here, and, with several ponds, gives the town a considerable wa- ter power. The soil of the town is fertile, and in 1S37, with a popula- tion of .398, produced 9,429 bushels of wheat. Springtield was No. 5, 2d range N. of the Bingham Pur- chase, and was incorporated in 1834. It lies about 60 miles N. E. by E. from Bangor. S pringfleld, IV. H. Sullivan co. This town is bound- ed N. by Grafton, E. by Wilmot, S. E. by New London, S. by Wen- dell an5. Sumner, 2tle. Oxford CO. Thi's town is well watered by a branch of Andros- coecin river; it has a fine soil, and produced in 1837, 7,1M bushels of wheat. It lies 44 miles W. from Augusta, and 8 N. from Paris. Popukition, 1837,1,190. This town derived its name from Inciie.\.se Sumner, who was governor of Massachusetts in 1798, when the town was incorporated. Gov. Sumner was a native of Rox- bury, Mass. He died in 1799, aged 52 years. Sunayee Lake, 3V. H. This lake is situated in the W. part of Merrimack county, and the E. part of Sullivan, in the towns of Wendell, New London and New- bury. It is 9 miles long, and about 1 1-2 miles in width. Its outlet is on the W. side through Sugar riv- er. The waters of this lake are more than 800 feet higher than the Connecticut or Merrimack, at the nearest points. Suncook River, N. H. This river rises in a pond be- tween Giimanton and Gilford, near the summit of one of the Suncook mountains, elevated 900 feet above its base. The water from this pond passes through two others at the foot of the mountains, and thence through a flourishing village in the S. E. part of Giimanton, into Barn- stead, where it i-cceives several tributaries; thence through Pitts- ficld and Epsom, and between Al- Icnstown and Pembi-oke, into the Merrimack. Sunderland, Vt. Bennington co. This town was first settled in 1765. It lies 87 miles S. S. W. from Montpelier, and 15 N. by E. from Bennington. Popu- lation, 1830, 463. The town is watered by several ponds. Batten- kill rivci- and Roaring brook. There is some fine land along the streams, in Sunderland, excellent mill sites, and lead ore in granular limestone. Sunderland, Mass. Franklin co. This town lies on the east side of Connecticut riv- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. er, 90 miles W. from Boston, and 9 S. by E. from Greenfield. It was taken from Hadley in 1718. Pop- ulation, 1S37, 729. The settlement in this town is principally on a street running parallel with the river. Between the street and the river is a tract of fertile meadow : on the other side of the village is a more elevated plain, and back of that. Mount Toby rears its lofty front. This mountain is composed of pudding stone, and the small stones within it are round and smooth as though washed by the ocean ; they are of various sizes, and of every color. On one side is a cavern 60 feet deep ; and many other ruptures seem to indicate some great change in this mountain since its formation. This village is vei-y pleasant, and the scenery around it is of a fascinating character. The people here are good farmers, and are noted for their good schools and philanthropic disposition. SunUIiaze, Me. Sunlihaze stream meets the Pe- nobscot, from the east, about 15 miles above Old Town village, in Orono. The plantation of Sunk- liaze lies on this stream, 82 miles N. E. from Augusta. The popula- tion of the plantation, in 1830, was 250. Surry, Me. Hancock co. Surry lies on tlie W. side of Union river, 6 miles S. from Ellsworth, and 87 E. by N. from Augusta. This town is accommodated with navigable privileges, and water power of superior excellence. — There are some manufactures in the town, but the inhabitants are generally independent farmers. — Many of the farms are rendered very fertile by an inexhaustible bed of shell marl, of a very fine qual- ity. Incorporated, 1803. Popula- tion, 1830, 561 ; 1S37, 735. j Surry, N. H. Cheshire co. This town lies 54 miles S. W. from Concord, and 6 N. W. from Keene. It is watered by Ashuelot river, on which there is a tract of valuable meadow land, extending almost the whole length of the town. On the east side of Ashuelot river is a steep and high mountain, on the summit of which is a pond of about 3 acres in extent, and about 25 feet depth of water. Surry was originally a part of Gilsum and Westnioreland. It was incorporated in 1769, deriving its name from /Swjc?/ in England. The first settlement was made in 1764, by Peter Hayward. Population, 1830, 539. Sutton, N. H. Merrimack co. This town lies 25 miles W. N. W. from Concord. The southerly and largest branch of Warner I'iver enters this town on the south, runs a short distance, and passes oft' into Warner again. The northerly branch of this river runs nearly through the centre of the town from noj(h to south, and aftbrds several good mill seats. Ste- vens' brook, another considerable blanch of Warner river, has its source on the W. side of Kearsarge, and runs about 4 miles in this town, in a S. E. direction. There is also a large branch of Blackwater riv- er, which has its source about the westein confines of Kearsarge, and flows through this town in a N. E. course about 3 miles. On the margin of this stream, there is some lich meadow and intervale land. There are several ponds, the most iniporlnnt of which are Kezar's pond, situated towards the N. part of the town, which is about 190 rods square ; and Long pond, situa- ted at the south part of the town. Kearsarge mountain extends more than lialf the length of Sutton ou NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEKR. the E. side. King's Hill is situated oil the W. part of Sutton. On the most elevated part of this liill, which rises within a few feet as high as Kearsarge, there is one of the most extensive landscape views in the country. On the W. is seen the Sunapee lake, the Ascutney, and highlands in Vermont to the Green mountains ; on the S. tlie Sunapee and Monadnock ; on the E. you almost ovei-iook Kearsarge, and on the north the Cardigan and White hills. Sutton wz-i granted in 1749. It was called Perrys-town, from Oba- «iiah Perry, one of its original and principal pro])rietors. The first settlement was made in 1767. Pop- ulation, \S?,Q, 1,124. On the W. bank of Kezar's pond, were several acres of laud, which M.pi)eared to have been cleared of their original forests. Here were found several Indian liearths, laid with stone, and with much skill and ingenuity. Here was found an Indian burial place. Gun barrels and arrows have been found in this sacred repository. Near the pond, have been found stone pestles, mor- tars and tomahawks. Sutton, Vt. Caledonia CO. This town is wa- tered by several ponds and by branches of Passumpsic river. It lies 3S miles N. E. from Montpe- lier,. and 1.3 N. from Danville. First settled, 1791. Population, 1830, i,no.5. The surface of the town is level, and in some parts so low as to ren- der the soil cold and unproduc- tive. Sutton, Mass. Worcester co. This is a very pleasant and flourishing town, 44 miles W. by S. from I'oston, and 9 S. by E. from Worcester. Incorpo- rated, 1715. Population, 1830, 2,186; 1837, 2,457. Sutton is watered by IMackstone 35* river, and the Blackstone canal passes througii the town. There arc in the town four cotton and two woolen mills, two scythe factories, and manufactures of boots, shoes, shuttles and spindles: total value, the year ending April 1, 1837, $309,578. The surface of the town is agree- ably diversified, and the soil capa- ble of producing good ci-ops. Gran- ite and soapslone are abundant. " Purgatory Cavern,'" in this town, is a great curiosity. It is a tissure in gneiss, nearly half a mile long, in most parts partially filled by the masses of rock that have been de- tached from the walls. The sides are often perpendicular, and some- times 70 feet high ; being separated from each other about 50 feet. Swanzey, ST. H. Cheshire co. This town lies 6 miles S. from Keene, and 60 S. W. from Concord. The principal streams are the Asliuelot and the South Branch rivers. The former passes through Swanzey in a S. W. direction, and empties into the Con- necticut at Hinsdale. This is a stream of much iuipoilauce, and is made navigable for boats as far up as Kecne, excepting a carrying place about the rapids at Winches- ter. The South Branch unites with the Ashuelot about one mile north from the centre of the town. The surface here is somewhat di- versified with hills, valleys, and swells of upland. There is one pond in the S. W. j)art of the town, the ^oui'ce of the South Branch. There is a mineral spring, the wa- ter of which is impi-egnated with sulphate of iron. Some iron ore has been discovered. Here are 2 cotton factories, 1 cotton and woolen factory, and other machinery. Swanzey was first granted by Massachusetts, in 1733. After the divisional line was run, it wa* granted in 1753, by New Hamp- shire. Until that time it had been NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. called Lower Asliuelot, from tlie Indian name of the river, which was originally Jlshaelock. From 1741 to 1747, this town suf- fered much from Indian depreda- tions. Sevei-al of the inhabitants were killed and many were made prisoners. After Massachusetts withdrew her protection, the set- tlers collected together their house- hold furniture, such as chests, ta- bles, iron and brass ware, and con- cealed it in the ground, covering the place of concealment with leaves, trees, &c., and left their plantation to the disposition of the Indians, who were not tardy in set- ting fire to their forts, which, with every house except one, they re- duced to ashes. Most of the peo- ple went to their former places of residence in Massacliusetts. They returned about three years after- wards, and nothing about their for- mer habitation was to be seen, but ruin and desolation. Population, 1830, 1,S16. Swaiizey, JMass. Bristol CO. This town lies be- tween Somerset, and Bristol, R. I. An arm of Mount Hope bay sets up some miles into the town, on which is some navigation and ship building. There are two paper mills, a cot- ton and a woolen mill in the town, and manufactures of vessels, boots and shoes: annual value, about $50,000. Swnnzey is a very pleasant town, and is interesting as the scene of much savage aggression. Here it was that Philip commenced his war, in 1675, by. plunder and murder. It lies 46 mi'es S. by V/. from Bos- ton, and 14 S. W. by S. from Taun- ton. Incorporated, 1667. Popula- tion, 1837, 1,627. S'lvauton, Vt. Franklin co. This township is situated on the ^st side of Lake Champlain, opposite to North Hero and Alburgh. It is 50 miles N. W. fiom Montpelier, 28 N. from Bur- lington, and is bounded by St. Al- bans on the south, and Highgate on the north. Population, 1830, 2,158. Swanton was lirst .settled by the whites in 1787. At that time the St. Francois Indians had about fift)' cabins here, and large plantations of corn. Missisque river passes through Swanton, and fertilizes a considera- ble portion of its territory. This river is navigable for lake vessels to Swanton falls, six miles from its mouth. These falls descend twen- ty feet, and, with other smaller streams, give to Swanton a water power of great value. Bog iron ore is found in this town, and an abundance of beautiful mar- ble. This marble is of various col- ors, and large quantities of it is wrought into all desired patterns, polished, and transpoited. The surface and soil of the town is favorable to agricultural pursuits, with the exception of a part border- ing the lake, which is low, wet and cold; and which is the favorite abode, in summer, of wild geese, ducks and other water fowls. The village of Swanton is pleas- antly located, and is the site of a number of manufactories, and of an increasing trade from the inte- rior country, and to New York and Canada. Swanton may boast of the pui'ity of its air and water, and of « Wal- ter Scott, who died in 1815, aged 110 years. S^vanville, Me. Waldo CO. This town lies 8 miles N. from Belfast, and 46 E. by N. from Augusta. It was incorpora- ted 'in 1818. It is watered by Paasaggassawakeag lake and river, and possesses a pleasant surface and fertile soil. Population, 1837, 794. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Wlieat crop, same year, 2,556 bush- els. Sweden, Me. Oxford CO. The waters fiom Ke- zer pond ia Lovell, pass through this town, and give it mill privi- leges. Sweden lies 9 miles N. E. from Fryeburg, 19S.\V. from Paris, and 62 W. 8. W. from Augusta. Inporporatctl, ISl.*?. Population, in 1837, 621 . Wheat crop, same year, 1,485 bushels. S^vift Rivers. Swift river, in Maine, is a brancli of the Andi'oscoggin, from the N. These rivers unite at Mexico. Swift river, in JVew Jfinnpshire, rises among the mountains in the ungrantcd lands N. W. of Albany, and passes through the town from west to east with great rapidity, and falls into the Saco in Conway. Its whole course is rapid, and in one place it falls .30 feet in the distance of G rods, through a channel in tlie solid rock of about 12 feet wide — the sides being from 10 to 30 feet perpendicular height. At the up- per part of these falls, are found several circular holes worn perpen- diculai-ly into the rock, several feet in depth and from 6 inches to 2 feet in diameter. There is another small river in Tamworth of the same name. Swift river, in Massachiisetts, rises in a pond in New Salem : it passes through the towns of Pres- cott, Greenwich and Belchertovvn, and joins the Chickopee at Palmer. Tamworth, N. H. Strafford co. This town is situa- ted on the post road from Concord to Portland, about 58 miles from each, and 30 N. from Gilfoid. There is no mountain situated wholly in this town. On the N. are the mountains of Albany, and the S. the line crosses a part of Os- sipec mountain. The mountains to the N. have a romantic and pictur- esque appearance. The town lies in ridges and valleys, generally rocky and fertile. The principal rivers are Bearcamp, which passes through the town in an easterly di- rection, and discharges its waters into Ossipee lake ; Swift river, which ri-es near the N. W. corner of the town, and passing through its centre, mingles its waters with the Bearcani]) ; and Conway river, proceeding from Conway pond, near Albany ; and crossing the S. line of Tamworth, near the S. E. corner of the town, near which it empties into Bearcamp I'iver. By these rivers, and other small streams, the town is uncommonly well watered. On these streams is a great number of excellent mill piivileges. Tam- worth was granted in 1766, -and was settled in 1771. Population, 1830, 1,554. TariiTville, Ct. See Simsbury. Taiiglikannic Mountains. This range of mountains skirt the western boi-der of New England, and separate the waters of the Housatonick and Hudson. Taunton River, This river rises in the county of Plymouth, Mass., and falls info Mount Hope Bay. The Taunton and its branches, water the towns of Abington, Hanson, Halifax, and Plympton, all the Bridgewaters, Raynham, Taunton, Berkley, Digh- ton, Freetown, Fall river, Somer- set and Swansey. It is navigable to Taunton, for small vessels, and with its contemplated improve- ments, steam boats will be enabled to run to Taunton, and thus become another cliannci of conveyance be- tween Boston and New York. This river is celebrated for the great and widely distributed water power it produces, and foi- the multitude of alewives within its waters. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Taiintoii, Mass. One of the chief towns in Bristol CO. This very beautiful town i; sit- uated at the junction of Canoe, Rumford and Taunton livers, and possesses an excellent water power. There is some excellent land in this town, and its proprietors display much taste in its cultivation. The business of the place is, however, rather in manufactures than agri- culture. There are 8 cotton mills and a print works, in the town ; also a paper mill, 3 nail factories, a forge, a furnace, and manufactures of boots, shoes, leather, hats, chairs, brick, vessels, straw bonnets, and britannia, stone and cabinet wares: total value of the manufactui'es, the year ending April 1, 1837, exclu- sive of cloth printing and ii-on cast- ings, ^1,425,552. The number of hands employed in these manufac- tures was 1,303. There is some navigation owned in this town, which is employed in the coastwise trade, and domestic fishery. The manufacture of britannia ware at this place, is of recent ori- gin in this country, and proves suc- cessful. The articles manufactur- ed, are tea sets, castors, urns, and all the varieties of that description of ware. The quality of the metal, and beauty of the polish of this ware, is said to equal any import- ed from " Britannia." The village contains a large num- ber of handsome public and piivate buildings, tastefully located around a beautiful enclosure, called "Taun- ton Green." This public walk is ornamented with trees, which heightens the beauty of this de- lightful village. Taunton is 32 miles S. from Bos- ton, 20 E. by N. from Providence, and 32 N. E. from Newport. A rail road connects this town with Boston. Population, 1320, 4,520; 1S30, G,042; 1837, 7, 147. The settlement of this place com- menced in 1637. Its principal founder was Miss Elizabeth Poole. The following is on her grave stone : " Here rest the remains of Elizabeth Poole, a native of Old England, of good family, friends, and prospects, all which she left in the prime of her life, to enjoy the religion of her con- science, in this distant wilderness ; a great proprietor of the township of Taunton, a chief promoter of its set- tlement, and its incorporation in 1639 — 10 5 about which time she settled near this spot, and having employed tlie opportunity of her virgin state in piety, liberality, and sanctity of man- ners, died May 21, 1G61, aged G5.'' Temiscouata Lake, Me. See Madawaska River. Temple, Me. Franklin co. This was formerly a part of Kennebec county. It lies 40 miles N. N. W. from Augusta, and is bounded N. by Farmington. It was incorporated in 1803. Pop- ulation, 1837, 871. Wheat crop, same year, 5,798 bushels. Temple, N. H. Hillsborough co. Temple is 12 miles W. bv S. from Amherst, and 40 S. S. W. from Concord. The several streams which empty in- to Souhegan river at Wilton, rise among the mountainous tracts on the W.,and generally from sources within the limits of Temple. This town is of considerable elevation. The prospect towards the E. and S. is very extensive, and presents a rich and diversified scenery. From the highest point of elevation, in a clear atmosphere, about 20 meeting houses may he seen by the naked eye. The surface is uneven and pleasant. The soil is tolerably good. Temple is the easterly part of what was called Peterborough Slip. It was incorporated in 1768. Population, in 1830,641. Templeton, Mass. Worcester co. Several streams, affording good mill seats, water this NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEEU. town, and pass to tlic Connecticut, by Miller's and Cliickopee rivers. The surface of the town is uneven, but not mountainous; the elevated parts alford good pasturage, and the valleys, excellent ciops of grain and hay. The manufactures con- sist of woolen goods, boots, shoes, leather, iron castings, shovels, hoes, spades, forks, palm leaf hats, chairs, carriages, and cabinet, tin and wood- en wares: value, the year ending April 1, 1837, $115,100. The vil- lage is very pleasantly located, and presents some beautiful landscapes. This town lies GO miles W. N. W. from Boston, and 26 N. N. W. from Worcester. Incorporated in 1762. Population, 1837, 1,690. Tc-\vksl>iiry, Mass. Middlesex CO. The Indians call- ed this place IVamesit. It lies on the south side of Merrimack river, 19 miles N. W. by W. from Boston, and 6 E. S. E. from Lowell. Incor- porated, 1734. Population, 1S37, 907. The surface of the town is level, and the soil light and sandy. Tliames River, Ct. This river is formed by the union of Quinebaug, Shctucket and Yan- tic rivers, near Norwich, and is navigable from that place to New London, 14 miles. The banks of this river are romantic and beauti- ful, and possess great interest, as the residence of the once powerful, noble hearted and brave Mohegans. Thatcher's Island, Mass. See Gloucester. Thetfor"how the land lies." See " Down East." Topsfield, Mass. Essex CO. This is a very pleas- ant town, watered by Ipswich river and its branches. The surface is agreeably diversified by hills and valleys. There are some fine tracts of intervale in the town, and the uplands possess a strong soil, ren- dered productive by industrious and skilful farmers. The principal manufacture is that of boots and shoes,in which between 500 and 600 hands are emploved, making annu- ally about $100,000 in value. This town lies 21 miles N. by E. from Boston, and 9 N. by W. from Sa- lem. Population, 1837, 1,049. Topsfield was first settled about the year 1642. It was incorporated in 1650. Among the names of the first settlers were Peabody, Per- kins, Clark, Cummings, Bradstreet, Gould, Town, Easty, Smith, and AVildes ; many of whose cescend- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ants now cultivate the soil of their progenitors. Topsham, Ale. One of the shire towns of Lincoln CO. Topsham is i)Ieasantly situated on the N. side of Androscoggin riv- er, opposite to Brunswick. This is a good farming town, and, in com- mon with Brunswick, enjoys a great hydraulic power, and accommoda- tions for ship building and naviga- tion. It is a place of considerable trade, and much lumber is annual- ly shipped. Topsham was incorporated in 1764. Population, 1837, 1,77S. Topsliam, Vt. Orange co. This town is on ele- vated ground ; with a rocky, strong soil, adapted to grazing. It con- tains much granite, and is watered by the upper branches of Wait's river, which propel a number of mills. The town was first settled in 1781. Population 1830, 1,3S4. It is 19 miles S. E. froui Montpe- lier, 47 N. from Windsor, and 15 N. E. from Chelsea. Torriugton, Ct. Litchfield co. This town was first settled in 1737. Its surface is diversified by hills and valleys, and the soil is better adapted to grazing than the culture of grain. There are many sheep in the town, and the products of the dairy are con- siderable. Pop\ilation, 1830, 1,6.^4. Two branches of Naugatuck riv- er meet at TVolcoitville, a beauti- ful village, in the Fouth part of the town ; 26 miles V/. N. W. from Hartford, 40 N. by W. from New Haven, and 7 N. by E. from Litch- field. This village is situated in a valley, and contain? an extensive woolen factory, a church, an acad- emy, and a number of handsome dwelling houses. Near this village, a good bed of copper ore has re- cently been discovered ; and Mr. Israel Coe, the proprietor, has com- 3G menced the manufacture of brass kettles, the first establishment of the kind, it is believed, in the Uni- ted States. IVolcottville owes its rise, prin- cipally, to Oliveh Wolcott, secretary of the United States Treasury, during the administra- tions of Washington and John Ad- ams ; and governor of Connecticut 10 successive years. He was born at Litchfield, and died in New York, 1833, aged 74. Townseud, Mass. Middlesex co. The surface of this town is rather level ; some parts are pine plains. The soil is gener- ally light, but in some sections it is productive, particularly of fruit trees. It is watered by a branch of the Nashua, a beautiful mill stream, on which are divers mechanical op- erations. "Townsend Harbor," on the road from Groton to New Ips- wich. N. H., is an active, pleasant village. The manufactures of this town consist of leather, palm-leat hats, boots, shoes, ploughs, straw bonnets, fish barrels, nail kegs, and dry casks; annual value, about $75,000. This town was incorpo- rated in 1732. Population, in 1830, 1,506; 1837,1,749. It lies 38 miles N. from Boston, and 22 N. W. from Concord. To'tvusliend, Vt. Windham co. This town was first settled in 1761. Among the first settlers, was Gen. Samuel Fletcher, who was a sergeant at the battle of Bunker Hill, in 1775, and a captain at Ticonderoga, in 1777. He afterwards rose to the rank of iiajor general of the mili- tia ; was high sheiifTof the county 18 years, ami finally became judge of the court. He was forn\erly a blacksmith ; but having welded himself to a buxom lass, he came lo this, then wilderness spot, and, with his axe cut his way to fortune, use- fulness and renown. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. West river passes through the town with considerable rapidity : along its banks are some tracts of good intervale ; but the surface of the town is generally hilly, and the soil more calculated for grazing than tillage. There are some manu- factures in the town, a high school of good reputation, and two pleas- ant villages. Townshend lies 12 miles N. N. W. from Braltlebo- rough, 28 N. E. from Benning- ton, 95 S. from Montpelier, and is bounded S. by Newfane. Popula- tion, 1830, 1,386. Trenton, Me. Hancock co. Trenton is situated on a navigable passage between Frenchman's bay on the E., Union river on the W., and N. of the island town of Eden. It possesses great advantages for navigation, and a large portion of its people is en- gaged in ship building, the coasting trade and tishery. Incorporated in 17S9. Population, in 1S37, 924. Trenton is 7 miles S. by E. fiom Ellsworth. Trescott, Me. Washington co. This is an At- lantic town, and bounded N. E. bj"^ Lubec. It comprises Moose cove, Bailey's mistake and Haycock har- bors, and is flourishing in its trade and navigation. It was incorpora- ted in 1827. Population, in 1830, 480 ; 1837, 713. Trout River, Vt. Franklin co. This river is form- ed in Montgomery, by several branches ; it runs in a N. W. di- rection and fiills into the Missisque on the border of Enosburgh and Berkshire. This is a good mill stream, and with its tributaries, fer- tilizes considerable tracts of coun- try. Troy, Me. Waldo CO. This territory was called Joy from 1S12 to 1826 ; it was then called Montgomery, and changed again in 1827, to its pres- ent name. If these Ti'ojans are lickle about the name of their town, they are good farmei-s, and produc- ed in 1837, 9,194 bushels of wheat. The surface of the town is undula- ting and fertile ; a large part of it is covered with heavy timber. It is watered by a branch of the Sebas- ticook, from which river it lies about 6 miles S. E. It is 39 miles N. E. from Augusta, and 25 N. W. from Belfast. Population, in 1830, 803; 1837, 1,140. Troy, ]V. H. Cheshire CO. This town is bound- ed N. by Marlborough, E. by Jaf- frey, S. by Fitzwilliam, and W. by Richmond and Swanzey. It is about 60 miles S. W. from Concord, and 12 S. E. from Keene. The in- habitants are piincipally agricultu- I'alists. This town was taken from Marlborough and Fitzwilliam, and incorporated in 1815. Population, inlS30, 676. Troy, Vt. Orleans co. Troy lies 47 miles N. from Montpelier, 51 N. E. from Burlington, 11 N. N. W. from Irasbuigh, and is bounded N. by Canada. First settled in ISOO. Population, 1830, 608. During the war for "sailors' lights," most of the inhabitants left the town, which greatly retarded its growth. It is finely watered by Missisque river, and its tributaries : the surface is generally level, and the soil pro- ductive, particularly on the sides of the streams. The Falls on the Missisque, pro- duce a great water power, and pro- pel some machinery. These falls pass down a ledge of rocks about 70 feet. A rock projects over them, 120 feet in perpendicular height. From this rock, the falls, the deep still water in the gulph below, with the roHjantic scenery around (h» place, present a spectacle of great NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. interest to the curious traveller. The rocks here are chlorite, ser- pentine, limestone, soapstone and mica slate. Trumbull, Ct. Fairfield co. This territory was formerly called North Stratford, and was taken from Stratford and incor- porated as a town, in 1798. This is a small town of about 5 by 4 1-2 miles. It lies 5 miles N. from the city of Bridgeport. It is watered by the Pequannock which empties into Bridgeport harbor. The sur- face is varied by hills and valleys: the soil is a gravelly loam, produc- tive of good crops of grain and hay. Population, 1830, 1,212. Tam- tashua hill, in the north part of the town, is the first land seen, in this direction, from the ocean. Truro, Mass. Barnstable co. Truro lies on Cape Cod bay, between Welfieet and Provincetown ; it is nearly sur- rounded by water; — by Pamet riv- er, which sets in from Cape Cod bay on the south, and by Cape Cod har- bor in Piovincetown. Truro was the Pamet of the Indians, and after its settlement, in 1700, was called Dans;erjicld for some years. Pam- et river affords a good harbor for fishermen; it lies about 5 miles S. E.from Provincetown hai-l)or. There is in this town, near the light house, a vast body of clay, called the " Clay Pounds," which seems providen- tially placed, in the midst of sand hills, for the preservation of this part of the cape. Although there is but little vegetation at Truro, and the people are dependent almost en- tirely for their fuel, and most of their food on other places ; yet there are but few towns in the state where the people are nmre flour- ishing, and independent in their circumstances. To such towns as this old Massachusetts looks with pride for one of her chief resourc- es of wealth — the fishery ; and for men of noble daring in all her en- terprises on the ocean. In 1837, there were 63 vessels owned at Truro, employed in the cod and mackerel fishery, measuring 3,437 tons; the product of which, in one year, was 16,930 quintals of cod lish, and 15,750 bairels of mack- erel, valued at $145,350. The number of hands employed was 512. The value of salt manufac- tured, annually, is about .'|i20,000. There are also, manufactures of palm-leaf hats, boots, shoes, &.c. No one would suppose that this was much of a wool growing place ; and it is not so in regard to the quantity grown, but much so as it regards its means. In 1837, the people of Truro sheared 400 sheep of their own rearing. If the sin- gle county of Penobscot, in Maine, would produce as much wool, in proportion to its territory and the quality of its soil, as the town of Ti-uro, there would be no cause of strife about the tariff on wool or woolen cloths ; for the quantity would be sufficient to clothe all the inhabitants on the glolie. Tiuro was incorporated in 1709. It lies 41 miles below Barnstable, and 106 fiom Boston, by land. Pop- ulation, 1830, 1,549; 1837,1,806. TuflouT>orougU, N. II., Strafford co., is about 50 miles E. by N. from Concord, situated on the N. E. shore of Winnepisiogee lake; bounded N. E. by (Jssipee, S. E. by Wolfeborough,'S. W. and W. by the lake, and N. W. by Moul- tonborough. There are several ponds in this town, together with many small streams I'unning into the lake. — There are sevei'al arms of the lake stretching fir into the town, and presenting to the spectator, from the elevatcil i)arts of the town, a suc- cession of beautiful views. Tuftonborough was originally granted to J. Tufton Mason, and took its name from him. It was NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. settled about 17S0, and incorpoi-ated in 1795. Population, ISoO, 1,375. Tunbridge, Vt. Orange co. A branch of White river passes through tliis town, on which are aiills of various kinds. The soil is generally a rich loam : on the stream the intervale land is extensive and valuable. In some parts of the town the surface is el- evated. Tunbridge contains a medicinal spring of some notoriety in cutane- ous diseases. Considerable quan- tities of the pioducts of the farms are sent to market. Many sheep are reared ; in 1837, the number in the town was8,2o0. Tunbridge was first settled in 1776. It is 26 miles S. by E. from Montpelier, 7 S. from Chelsea, and SO N. by W. from Windsor. Popu- lation, i83(), 1,920. Turner, Me. Oxford CO. A tributary of the Androscoggin meets that river in this town, and linely waters it. The soil of Turner is good, and its sur- face pleasant. There are a num- ber of thriving villages in the town: thei-e is considerable trade, and some manufactures; but the business of the people is generally agricultural. Turner was incorporated in 1736. It is 38 miles W. S. W. from Au- gusta, and 14 E. from Paiis. Pop- ulation, 1830, 2,2 IS; 18.37, 2,435. Wheat crop, in 1337, 7,031 bush- els. Tui-tlc KtTer, BIc, Or the MeriUmpticook, a branch of St. John's river, which empties about 7 miles S. W. from the mouth of the Madawaska. Tyiigsborougii, Mass. Middlesex fo. This j-; ? pleas- ant town on both sides of Merri- mack river, 8 miles N. W. by W. fi-om Lowell, and 29 N. Vv'. from Boston. Incorporated, 1789. Pop- ulation, 1837, 870. The ibei- here is wide, placid, and maje.^tic, and adds much to the beauty of the place. There is not much water power in the town, and the soil is light and sandy. Large quantities of granite are quanied here, hammered and fitted for vari- ous uses, and taken down the river. Here are also manufactuies of brushes, bai'rels, boots and shoes. Tyriiigliaiii, Blass. Berkshii'c co. There are several ponds in this town, from which is- sues a branch of Housatonick river. Tyringham lies 125 miles W. from Boston, 14 S. E. from Lenox, and 35 E. ti-oin Hudson, N. Y. In- coiporated, 1762. Population, in 1837, 1,2S8. The manufactures of the town consist of paper, iron castings, boots, shoes, leather, forks, rakes, palm-leaf hats, chair stuff, and wooden wai-e : annual value, about $.35,000. 1'he surface of the town is un- even, and in some parts mountain- oiis. " Hop Brook Valley," is a beautiful and romantic spot. There is a society of "Shakers" in Ty- ringham. See Ccniterbury,J\r. H. I lufcngog Lake, Ls a large l;ody of water, situa- ted mostly in the state of Maine, and extending about 300 rods in width along the east of the town- ships of Eriol and Cambridge, in New Hampshire. This lake is very iiiiperfeclly known; is said to be about 18 miles long, and in some parts 10 wide ; being but little in- ioiior to the Winnepisiogee, in ex- tent and beauty. Its outlet is on the west side, in Errol, its waters flowing into the Androscoggin. Unconooiiook Mountaiu, N. H. See Goffstown NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Underhill, Vt. Chittendon co. The head branch- es of Brown's river water this town. The surface is hilly and broken, and the soil hard ; but tolerable for sheep, of which a considerable number are reared. Underbill was first settled in 1786. It lies 15 miles N. E. from Burlington, and 26 N. W. from Montpelier. Population, in ISSO, 1,052. Union River, Me. Hancock co. The hcr.d waters of tliis river proceed within a few miles from the Passadumkeae;. It flows south through the towns of Hampton, Amherst, and Maria- ville : it meets the tide water at Ellsworth, and passes to the ocean by Blue Hill bay. This stream has numerous tributaries, the recip- ients of a great number of ponds, which are scattered over the inte- rior parts of the county. This beautiful river is in some parts gentle and fertilizing, in other parts rapid, producing a valuable water power for mills. Its length, from Ellsworth, is between forty and (ifty miles. Union, Me. Lincoln co. This pleasant and flourishing town is watered by Muscongus and St. George rivers, and by several beautiful ponds. The soil is fertile, and the surface generally swelling. Union was incorporated in 1786. It is 28 miles S. E. from Augusta, and 7 N. by W. from Warren. Pop- ulation, 1837, 1,750. Wheat crop, same year, 4,249 bushels. Union, Ct. Tolland co. The surface of Union is hilly, with a hard and un- productive soil. JSIashapaiig and Breakneck ponds, lying iu this town, are the principal sources of 36* Quinnebaug river. A branch of the Natchaug also rises here. The town was incorporated in 1734. First settled, 1727. It is bounded W. by Stafford, and is 33 miles N. E. from Hartford, and 14 N. E. from Tolland. Population, 1S30, 711. Unity, Mc. Waldo CO. This is a flourishing farming town, 33 miles N. E. from Augusta, 22 W. S. W. from Bel- fast, and bounded S. W. by Albion. It is well watered by a branch of Sebasticook river, which passes N. W., about 9 miles distant. Unity was incorporated in 1804. Population, 1837, 1,520. Wheat crop, same year, 11,099 bushels. Unity, IV. H. Sullivan CO. Thistown is bound- ed N. by Clare mont and Newport, E. by Goshen, S. by Lempster and Acworth, and W. by Charlestown. It is 43 miles W. by N. from Con- cord, and 9 S. from Newport. Little Sugar river has its source I in Whortleberry pond and Beaver meadow, in the N. part of the town, passes through its centre, and empties itself into the Connec- ticut at Charlestown. Cold pond, the head of Cold river, is partly iu this town. From Oilman's pond, in the E. part of Unity, proceeds a branch of Su2:ar river, flowing through Newport. Perry's moun- tain is in the S. W. part, and partly in Charlestown. Unity is an uneven township, but the soil is highly favorable for grazing. It is excellent for flax, few towns in the state producing a greater quantity. Unity was granted in 1764. It was called Unity, from the happy termination of a dispute which had long subsisted between certain of the inhabitants of Kingston and Hampstead, claiming the same tract of land under two different grants. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER, The first settlement was made in 1769. Population, 1330, 1,258. Upton, niass. Worcester co. Upton was taken from Mendon, Sutton and Hopkin- ton, in 1735. The surface ot the town is plain land, and partly rough and hilly, with a strong soil capable of yielding good crops of grain ?nd hay. Much attention has been paid to fruit trees in this town, and many fine orchards of various kinds of fruit have been the result. West river, a branch of the Blackstone, rises from a . pond in Upton, and furnishes a power for a number of mills. The manufactures consist of woolen goods, boots, shoes, leath- er, straw bonnets, sashes and blinds: annual value, about ,$175,000. This pleasant town lies 35 miles W. S. W. from Boston, and 15 S. E. from Worcester. Population, in 1830, 1,155; 1837, 1,451. Uxbridge, Mass. Worcester co. This very hand- some and flourishing town lies 40 miles S. Vi. from Boston, 17 S. by E. from Worcester, and 24 N. N. W. from Providence, R. I. It re- ceives an excellent water power from Mumford and West rivers, and the Blackstone canal passes through it. The manufacturing villages are delightfully situated, in valleys sur- rounded by picturesque elevations. There are 5 woolen and 3 cotton mills in tlie town, and manufactures of yarn, straw bonnets, boots, shoes, leather, chairs, cabinet and tin wares : total value, the year ending- April 1, 18.37, ,$402,450. Uxbridge was formerly a part of Mendon. It was incoi-porated in 1727. Population, 1830, 2,08)5 ; 1837, 2,246. Iron ore is found here, and an abundance of beauti- ful granite. Vassalliorougli, Mo. Kennebec co. This is a large and flourishing town on the east side of Kennebec river, 12 miles N. by E. from Augusta. There are several large and beautiful ponds in the town, from whicli is- sue two excellent mill streams: one a branch of the Sebasticook, the othei- of the Kennebec. This is a place of considerable interior trade, and business on the river. Vessels of considerable bur- then pass to the ocean from Vas- salborough, by means of the Ken- nebec Dam. The valleys are very pleasant; and the surface and soil of the town varied and fertile. Vassalborough was incorporated in 1771. Popula- tion, 1837, 2,929. Wheat crop, same year, 10,272 bushels. Vergeniies, Vt. Addison CO. Vergennes was first settled in 1766. The territory, which comprises an area of 480 by 400 rods, was invested with city ])rivilegesin 1788. It lies 12 miles N. W. from Middlebury and 21 S. by E. from Burlington. Population, 1.S30, 999. Vergennes is beauti- fully located on Otter creek, at the falls on that stream, and is 7 miles from Lake Champlain. Otter creek, at this place, is about 500 feet wide, and, at the falls, is separated by two islands, which form 3 distinct falls, of 37 feet. These falls produce a great hydraulic power, rendered more valuable by being situated in the heart of a fertile counti'y, and on t!ie navigable waters of the lake. The creek or river, between the city and the lake, is crooked, but navigable for the largest lake ves- sels. During the late war, this was an important depot on the lake. Here was fitted out the squadron commandt'd by the gallant McDo- nough, who met tiie British fleet off" Plattsburgh, N. Y. on the 11th of September, 1814, and made it his. This is a very fa\'orable position for ship building : it now possesses NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. important manufactories and consid- erable trade. Although the terri- tory of this city is quite small, its peculiarly favorable location, and the enterprise of its people, warrant it a great degree of prosperity. VERMONT. The people of the territory now called the state of Vermont, having been connected with New York, and having experienced great dissatis- faction with their connexion with that state, assembled in convention and on the 15lh of January, 1777, declared themselves independent, and or- ganized a government for tliemselves. The hardy mountaineci-s, who had become impatient under their con- nexion with and dependence on the great state of New York, in pursu- ance of their own peculiar views of the rights and duties of a free and independent people, adopted many singular and peculiar provisions in their constitution. Some of them are licrein stated. Their government con.-ists of three parts ; the legislative, the execu- tive, and the judicial. The Supreme Legislature consists of a Senate and House of Represen- tatives, chosen annually by the freemen of the state, on the first Tues- day of September. The Senate consists of .30 members ; each county being entitled to at least one, and the remainder to be apportioned accord- ing to population. The House of Representatives is composed of NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. one member from each town. The Senators are to be thirty years of age ; and the Lieutenant Governor is ex-officio President of the Senate. The body so chosen is called The General Assembly of the State of Vermont. The General Assembly meets annually on the second Tuesday of October. They have power to choose their own oflB- cers, to meet on their own adjournments, to terminate their sessions at pleasure ; to enact laws, grant charters, to impeach state criminals, &c. And, in conjunction with the council, they annually elect the Justices of the Supreme, County and Probate Courts ; also the Sheriffs, High Bailiffs, Justices of the Peace, &c.; and, when occasion requires, they elect Ma- jors and Biigadiei'S General. The General Assembly have full and am- ple legislative powers, but they cannot change the constitution. The supreme executive power is vested in a Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and twelve Counsellors, chosen annually by the people on the first Tuesday of September. They meet at the same time with the General Assembly, prepare and lay before them the business apparently necessary ; examine the laws in the progress of legislation, and approve or disapprove of them, and propose amendments. They cannot negative any act of the General Assembly, but can suspend the operation of any act till the next annual meeting of the Assembly. They commission all ofTicers ; sit as judges in all cases of impeachment ; have power to grant pardons and remit lines in all cases, excepting in cases of murder and treason, in which cases they can grant reprieves till the next legislative session, and excepting also cases of impeachment. They may lay em- bargoes for thirty days, when the assembly is not in session. The General Assembly, in joint meeting with the Govei-norand Coun- cil, annually elect the Judges, Justices of the Peace, Sheriffs, High Bai- lifTs, &c. The Governor is Captain-General, but he cannot command in person, unless by advice of his council. The Lieutenant Governor is Lieuten- ant General of the forces. The judicial power is vested in a Supreme Court and Court of Chance- ry, a County Court in each county, consisting of one of the Justices of the Supreme Court, and two Assistant Justices ; a Probate Court in each District ; and Justices of the Peace, who have a limited criminal and civil jurisdiction. The Judges of Probate appoint their own Registers, and the Sheriflfe and High Bailiff's appoint their own deputies. The several Town Clerks are Registers of deeds of conveyance of lands in their respective towns ; and if there be no town clerk, the deeds shall be recorded in the County Clerk's office. A council of 13 Censors is chosen by the people once in 7 years, on tb« NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. last Wednesday of March, and meet on the first Wednesday of June fol- lowing. Their duties are, to inquire if the constitulioa has been viola- ted ; if thelegislature,&,c. have perlbrmed thcirduty ; if the taxes have been justly levied aod collected ; and if tlie laws liave been obeyed. They may pass public censures ; order impeachments ; recommend the re- peal of laws ; propose amendments in the con-iilution, and call conven- tions to act on them. Theii- power expires in one year after their election. Successiou of Govcruois. Thomas Chittenden, 1791— 179G. Isaac Tichenor, 1797— ISOfi. Isra el Smith, 1S07. Isaac Tichenor, ISOS. Jonas Galusha, 1809— 1S12. M. Chittenden, 1813, 1814. Jonas Galusha, 1S15— 1819. Richard Skinner, 1820—1822. C. P. Van Ness, 1823—182.3. Ezra Butler, 1826, 1827. Samuel C. Crafts, 1828—1830, William A. Palmer, 1831—1835. Si- las H. Jenison, 1836 — Succession of Chief Justices. Samuel Knight, 1791— 1793. Isaac Tichenor 179 1, 1795. Nathaniel Chipman, 179(5. Israel Smith, 1797. Enoch Woodbridge, 1798-1800. Jonathan Robinson, 1801—1806. Royal Tyler, 1807- 1812. Nathaniel Chipman, 1813, 1814. Asa Aldis, 1815. Richard Skinner, 1816. Dud- ley Chase, 1817—1820. C. P. Van Ness, 1821, 1822. Richard Skinner, 1823— 1S28. Samuel Prentiss, 1S29. Titus Hutchinson, 1830-1833, Charles K. Williams, 1834— The state is bounded N. by Lower Canada, E. by Connecticut river, S. by Massachusetts, and W. by New York. Situated between 42° 44' and 45°N. Latitude, and 73° 16' and 71° 20' W. Longitude. Vermont is divided into 14 counties, to wit : Bennington, Windham, Rutland, Windsor, Addison, Orange, Chittenden, Washington, Caledonia, Franklin, Orleans, Lamoille, Essex and Grand Isle. The population of the state in 1790, was 85,-539; ISOO, 154,465; 1810,217,895; 1820, 235,- 764; 1830, 280,657. This state contains an area of about 10,212 square miles. Population to a square mile, in 1830, was 27-ij. The number of sheep in the state, in 1837, was 1,099,011. The important enterprise of a rail road from Boston to the outlet of the great lakes, on St. Lawrence river, will doubtless be accomplished. An enterprise of this kind, well worthy the consideration of tlie intelligent citizens and capitalists of Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont, will greatly benefit those states, and make the capital of New England a powerful competitor with New York, for a large portion of the immense northern and western trade. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Although this fourteenth state was not admitted into the union until af- ter the revolutionary contest was over, yet she vigorously resisted British oppression. A range of mountains covered with spruce, hemlock and other evergreens divides this state nearly in its centre ; hence its name ; and hence the epithet " Green Mountain Boys," celebrated for. their braverj' in the war of independence. From these mountains many rivers take their rise ; the most important are, Otter Creek, Onion, Lamoille and Missisque, which empty into Lake Champlain, on, the west; and West, White and Passumpsic, which pass to the Connecticut on the east. This state is very fertile and produces all sorts of grain in great abundance. Cattle of various kinds are raised here with great facility. Wool is an important staple. Manufactures flourish on many of the delightful streams of Vermont, and its hills produce-mar- ble, granite and iron ore of superior excellence. The scenery of this state is very romantic and beautiful ; the air is pure and healthful; the people industiious, intelligent, hospitable. The trade of this state, on the west, passes to New York by lake Cham- plain, the northern canal and Hudson river ; that on the east, to Connecti- icut river. Some of the trade of this state reaches Boston, and some goes to Montreal. See Register. Veruon, Vt. Windham'co. Vernon lies on the west side of Connecticut liver, op- posite to Winchester, N. H. That river bends abruptly at this place, but in consequence of its elevated and rocky shore, affords this town but litle intervale land. The sur- face is generally mountainous, rocky and unproductive. There are in the town, line forests of oak and chesnut limber, and quarries of slate. Vernon was settled at an ear- ly period, and for many years was subject to Indian depredations. The remains of an old fort built in 1710, are now seen : many persons vvei-e killed and carried into captivity ; among the latter was the cclobiatod Mrs. Howe. From its settlement until 1802, Vernon was called Hins- dale. Vernon is 18 miles S. E. from Nevvfane, and is bounded S. by Krattleborough. Population, 1830, (iSl. Vernon, Ct. Tolland co. This town lies 12 miles E. N. E. from Hartford, and 7 S. W. from Tolland. Rock vil- lage, and Tankerooson are pleasant and flourishing manufacturing vil- lages, containing IS cotton and woolen mills. The former is 14, the latter 10 miles from Hartford. The Hockanum, and a branch of that river, the Tankerooson, are the principal streams. Vernon was first settled in 1716. It was a pait of East Windsor and NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Bolton unCiI 1S08. The surface of the town is varied by liillsand val- leys ; the soil is a gravelly loam ami sandy, but good for grain and grass. Population, 1830, 1,164. Vershlre, Vt. Orange co. The surface of this town is uneven and stony, but fur- nishes pasturage for a large number of sheep, horses and neat cattle. Branches of Ompomponoosuc river rise here, but give the town no val- uable water power. Vershire was first settled in 17S0. It lies 25 miles S. E. from Montpelier, 35 N. from Windsor, and 6 E. by S. from Chel- sea. Population, 1830, 1,260. Victory, Vt. Essex CO. This township was chartered in 1781. Moose river, a branch of the Passumpsic, passes through it. It lies 10 miles W. from Guildhall, and, iu 1830, had 53 inhabitants. Vienna, Me. Franklin co. A branch of Sandy river and several ponds water this fertile and pleasant town. It lies 2-5 miles N. W. from Augusta, and 10 S. K. from Fai-inington. Incor- porated, 1802. Population, 1837, 793. Wheat crop, same year, 4,065 bushels. Vinalliaven, Me. Waldo CO. Previous to 1838, this town was attached to the coun- ty of Hancock. It is situated 12 miles S. E. from Camden, 6 E. from Owl's Head, and is formed of the Fox Islayuis, at the mouth of Pe- nobscot bay, about fifty miles be- low Rancor. There are three islands of considerable size, belong- ing to this group, besides several smaller islands on their coast. This island town possesses in an eminent degree all those advantages to be derived fiom a bold shore and good harbors, in the centre of an exten- Mve maritime commerce, and of the domestic fishery. These privi- leges arc well impioved by the in- habitants of Fox Islands : they also make their soil li-ibutary to their wants. In 1837, their croj) of wheat was 1,611 bushels. So long as the sea island towns of Mount Desert, Eden and Vinalhaven, afford wheat, and Truro, wool, in such abun- dance ; there seems, at present, no gi-eat cause for the Yankees going west to escape cither nakedness or starvation. These islands are fine- ly located foi- summer excursions, either for health or pleasure. The passages between the principal islands, are delightful ; and the scenery around them beautiful. Population, 1837, 1,768. ' Vineyard, Vt. Grand Isle co. This town, com- prisingan island in Cliamplain Lake, covering an area of 4,620 acres, was chartered in 17!),9, by the name of Isle La Moffe. Its name was changed to Vineyard in 1802. It lies about 4 miles W. from North Hero, and was first settled in 1785. It is a very pleasant island, fertile, and abounding in excellent cedar and limestone. Pop. 1830, 459. Vineyard Sound, niass. This is a great thoroughfare for vessels bound alons tlie coast be- tween Cape Cod and the mouih of Huzzard's bay. It lies between the island of Martha's Vineyard and the islands of Nashawn and Nashawenna. The tides in this Sound are rapid, and the passage dangerous, without a good pilot. Voluntown, Ct. Windham co. This town was incorporated in 1719. It derived its name from the circumstance that most of its territory' was grant- ed, in 1696, to Volunteers in the Narraganset war. The surface is. in some parts, hilly; but the pre- vailing character of the surface and soil is a sandy and gravelly loana. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Voluntown is 14 miles E. from Norwich, and is bounded by Rhode Island on the east, and North Ston- ington on the south. Population, in 1830, 1,304. The town is watered by Wood river, a branch of the Pawcatuck, on which are one wool- en and two cotton mills. Waclinsett Mountain, Mass. Worcester co. See Princeton. Wait's River, Vt. Orange co. Branches of this river rise in Orange, Topsham, and Washington ; they meet at Brad- ford, and fall into the Connecticut. This river, and the streams that compose it, are rather rapid in their course, and furnish many valuable mill privileges. Below the falls, in Bradford, this river is more gen- tle, and in its course it fertilizes a tract of intervale. Its longest branch is about 20 miles. Its mouth, on the Connecticut, is about 100 feet in width. Waitsfleld, Vt. Washington co. Mad river, a small, rapid stream, passes circui- tously through this town, fertilizing the soil, and affording it good mill seats. The uplands are a deep loam, fertile, and productive of all the varieties of a northern climate. Here are line pastures, and between 5,000 and 6,000 sheep. There are some manufactures in the town, but the people are gener- ally farmers, and make a good business of it. Good clay for mak- ing earthern ware, iron ore, and rock crystal are found here. This town lies 11 miles S. W. from Mont- pelier, and 30 S. E. from Burling- ton. Population, 1S30, 985. The settlement of Waitsfield was commenced in 1789, by General Benjamin Wait, from Sudbu- ry, Massachusetts. General Wait entered the service of his country at the age of 18, and performed much difficult service with great bravery and success. At the age of 25 he had been engaged in forty battles and skirmishes : his clothes were several times perforated with musket balls, but he never received a wound. In 1776, he entered the revolutionary army as captain, and acquired the rank of colonel. Af- ter the war, he was made a briga- dier general of militia, and was high sheriff of the county of Wind- sor seven years. General Wait, having lived to see the town he had planted in its wilderness state, covered with fruitful fields, and peopled by independent yeomen, died in 1822, aged 8(5 years. Wakefieia, W. H. Strafford co. This town lies 50 miles N. E. from Concord, and 30 N. by W. from Dover; bounded N. W. by Ossipee and Effingham, E. by Maine, S. E. by Milton, W. by Middleton and Brookfield. Love well's pond, in the S. part of the town, is about 700 rods long, 275 wide. Province pond lies between Wakefield and Effingham, and is 450 rods long, 400 wide. Pine river pond is the source of the river of that name flowing N. W. into Os- sipee lake. The principal branch of the Piscataqua has its rise in East pond, between Wakefield and Newfield, Maine. The soil of this town is generally good. The town was formerly called East-town, and was incorporated in 1774, by its present name. There are several cotton mills in this town, and various other manu- factures. Lovewell's pond, in this town, derived its name from Captain John Lovewell, of Dunstable, who, on the 20th February, 1725, surprised and destroyed a party of Indians encamped on the side of the pond. Robert Macklin, distinguished for longevity, died here in 1787, at the age of 115. He was born in Scot- land. Population, 1S30, 1,470. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. AValdeu, Vt. Caledonia co. This is an eleva- ted townsliip betwctMi the head wa- ters of Onion anti Lamoille rivers. Cole's pond, a large sheet of water, lyino; in the town, produces a small mill stream, called "Joe's Brook." The surface is generally rough, but the soil ill some parts of the town produces good crops. Walden was first settled in IIS'J. It lies 22 miles N. N. E. from Monlpelier, and is bounded S. E. by Danville. Popu- lation, 1830, 827. "Waldo Coiinfy, ?Ie. Belfast is the shire town. This maritime and agricultural county is bounded N. by Penobscot and Piscata(|uis counties ; E. by Pe- nobscot I)ay and river; S. by Lin- coln county, and W. by the county of Kennebec. It contains an area of about 812 square miles. Its population in 1S30, was 29,290 ; and in 1S37, 36,817. On the eastern side of the coun- ty, the noble Penobscot spreads its broad bay and river, embosoming Belfast and other beautiful bays, and indented with numerous capa- cious harbors, aflbrdiiig tiiis county every desirable facility for naviga- tion and the fisheries. The relative position of this county with the great basin of the Penobscot, is such as to give to it a large share of the coiuniercc of that fertile and rapidly increasing section of New England. Waldo county possesses within itself great resources of agricultur- al wealth. The stirface is gener- ally undulating: no portion of the county is too elevated or too low for cultivation. It is heavily tim- bered and abounds in limestone, of which laTi^c quantities are annually manufactured and transported. The soil is fertile, and congenial to the growth of every northern staple commodity. Tliis coun'y is inter- spersed with excellent mill streams, 37 and its numerous ponds give it a varied and picturesque appearance. Walilo county was, as it were but yesterday, a desert; at pixsent not more than two-thirds of its ter- ritory niay be said to be settled. In 1S37, it produced 109,140 bush- els of wheat, and contained 55,000 sheep, with a population of 45 to a square mile. Waltlo, Me. Waldo CO. This is a Plantation, but it is high time it was incorpo- rated with town privileges, for its surface is pleasant, and its soil fer- tile : it abounds with mill sites, and its increase of population, for the last seven years, was 35 per cent. Waldo is 4t miles E. N. E. from Augusta, and 7 W. N. W. frouj Belfast. Population, 18.37, 718. Whe:it crop, same 3'car, 1,903 bushels. ■W'alcloljorougli, Me. Lincoln co. This is a large, pleasant, and flourishing commercial town; a port of entry, situated on both sides of Muscongus river, and at the head of navigation on Mus- congus bay. This town, surrounded by a fertile country, enjoying navigable accom- modations, a great water power, and peopled by an enterprising and industrious class of agiiculturalists, mechanics and sailors, cannot fail of advancing in wealth and popula- tion. The tonnaae of this district, in 1837, was 39,9!)0 tons. The surface of the town is agree- ably diversified ; the soil of a qual- ity just hard enough to pi-omote a proper circulation of the blood of its cultivators, with air and water as plcai-^ant, as pure, and as favora- able to health and longevity, as those of any prairie, of which wc have any account, west of the Al- leghany mountains. It is true that these people have to encounter the dangers of the seas, in the naviga- tion of their numerous vessels en- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. gaged in foreign and domestic com- merce; to accidents attendant on launcliing their trig ships, brigs, and schooners, and in preparing various kinds of lumber for their cargoes ; and that they sometimes get drowned in crossing their rapid streams, and break tlieir limbs by riding too fast on their wintry snows ; yet they are perfectly satisfied with their location and condition, and have no hankering for the balmj' breezes of the south, nor thirst for the sweet waters of the west. Waldoborough is an tfncient town for this section of country : it was incorporated in 1773. It lies 37 miles S. E. from Augusta, and 22 E. N. E. from Wiscasset. Popu- lation, 1820, 2,149; 1830, 3,113; 1837, 3,420. "Wales, Me. Lincoln Co. There is a beauti- ful pond lying partly in Wales and partly in Lisbon ; its outlet meets the Androscoggin a few miles above Topsham. Wales is an agricultu- ral town of good soil and even surface, 20 miles S. W. from Au- gusta, and 26 N. W. from Wiscas- set. Incorporated, 1S16. Popula- tion, 1837, 667. Wheat crop, same year, 2,232 bushels. "Wales, Mass. Hampden co. This town is wa- tered by a branch of Quinnebaug jiver, and has a considerable water power. The surface of the town is uneven, but the soil affords good pasturage. Here is a woolen mill, and manufactures of leather, boots, shoes, axes, hatchets, palm-leaf hats, Stc: annual value, about ,$70,- 000. Wales is 67 miles W. S. W. from Boston, and 17 E. by S. from Springfield. Population, 1837,738. Walliiigford, Vt. Rutland co. This town is water- ed by Otter creek, Mill river, and by three ponds, one of which, Hi- ram's pond, covering an area of 350 acres, lies on very elevated ground, and is one of the principal sources of Otter creek. The other ponds are of less size, and less eleva- ted. These mountain ponds are very handsome, and contain fish. The soil of the town is gener- ally good : that on the banks of Otter creek, is very fertile and productive. Wallingford produces iill the varieties of grain, grass, &c., and feeds a large number of sheep. " A range of primitive limestone passes through the western part of the township, in which have been opened several quarries of excel- lent marble. Green hill, situated near the centre, is composed almost entirely of quartz. A part of White rocks, belonging to the Green Mountain range, appears to be granite, the rest quartz. At the foot of White rocks, are large cavi- ties formed by the fiUen rocks, call- ed the icebeds, in which ice is found in abundance through the summer season." There are some valuable manufacturing establishments in the town, and a flourishing trade. The village is pleasantly located on the banks of Otter ci-eek, near one of the ponds. It contains some handsome buildings, and presents a variety of picturesque scenery. Wallingford was lirstsettled in 1773. It lies' 10 miles S. by E. from Rut- land and 42 N. N. E. from Benning- ton. Population, 1830, 1740. Wallingford, Ct. New Haven co. " Wallingford is bounded N. by Meriden, W. by Cheshire, E. by Durham and Mid- dletown, and S. by North Bradford and North Haven. Its length from east to west is nearly 7 miles, and its breadth about 6. The central part of Wallingford is 13 miles N. from New Haven, 23 S. from Hart- ford, and between 11 and 12 miles S. W. from Middletown. The pre- vailing surface is pleasantly diver- j sified with moderate hills and dales ;, the eastern extremity of the town- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ship is mountainous. The soil is generally excellent, excepting a tract called WallingCord plain, con- sisting of coarse sand, situated on the eastern bank of the Quinnipiac. It is nearly 4 miles in length, and about I of a mile in breadth. It is the most extensive tract of level land in the state, and one of the most sterile and barren. The town is watered by the Quinnipiac, a valuable mill stream, which passes through the extent of the town, upon which are several mills and manufactories. Yaleville is a lit- tle manufacturing village in the northern section of the town, where britannia and tin ware is manufac- tured to some extent. There is an establishment westward of the main street, on the Quinnipiac, for the manufacture of wood screws, of which there are about 1,000 groce manufactured daily. The principal village of Wallingford is beautifully situated on a line eleva- tion upwards of a mile east of the river, on two parallel streets entend- ing along the ridge of the hill. The western street, on which the principal part of the village is sit- uated, is upwards of a mile in length." Wallingford originally belonged to New Haven, and was called New Haven Village. It was first settled about the year 1669. Pop- ulation, 1830, 2,418. W^alloostook River, Me. This is the we>tern or main branch of St. John's river. Its head waters are in the counties of Somerset and Franklin, and on the border of Canada. It receives the waters of many lakes, ponds and rivers, and drains a large section of wilderness country. This river is called the Walloostook until it meets the waters of the St. Fran- cois. The lands on the borders of this river are said to be fertile and heavily timbered. See St. John's river under Fundy, Bay. W^aloomsack River, Vt. This good mill stream is formed in Bennington, by several branch- es : it passes N. W. and joins the Hoosack. Between the Waloom- sack and Iloosack the famous " Ben- nington Battle " was fought. Walpole, N. H. Cheshire co. This place lies 60 miles S. W. by W. from Concord, 13 N. W. from Keene, and 90 N. W. from Boston. Population in 1830, 1,979. The face of this town is beautifully diversified by hills and vales. The soil is similar to that of other towns on Connecticut river. The intervales afford excel- lent tillage ; the uplands are inferi- or to none in the state. Cold river passes through the north part, and forms a junction with the Connecti- cut. There is a lofty hill, called Fall Mountain, a part of the range of Mount Toby ; the highest parts of which are about 750 feet above the level of the river. The village of Walpole is situated at the foot of this hill, on a plain ; the margin of the intervales. The principal street runs N. and S. and is bordered on both sides with dwelling houses, stores and shops. DrewsviUe, in this town, is a pleasant village, romantically situa- ted near the falls : it is a place of some trade, and considerable manu- factures. Bellows Falls, on Connecticut riv- er, separates this town from Rock- ingham, Vt. At the bridge, which crosses the river at this place, built in 1785, and 365 feet in length, the travcllei- is presented with a most interesting and sublime view. The river here is compressed into a narrow strait, between steep rocks, and for nearly a quarter of a mile is hurried on with great rapidity and loud roaiing. In no place is the fall perpendicular, to any consider- able extent ; but in the distance of half a mile the waters descend 42 NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. feet. A canal, witli 9 locks, passes round these falls on tlie west side. Col. Benjamin Bellows was one of the first settlers of this town, in 1749. He was a man of great en- terprise and bravery. His descen- dants are nunieious and highly re- spectable. Belloivs" Falls village, is in Rockingham, Vt., opposite toDrews- ville. Walpole, Mass. Norfolk CO. This town is finely watered by three branches of the Neponset which meet at this place. The face of the town is i-ough, but capable of producing good ci-ops. There are three cotton, two wool- en and two paper mills in the town, and manufactui-es of iron castings, hoes, hats, leather, straw bonnets, and twine : total value, the year ending April 1, 1837, ,f240,"3fi4. This pleasant and floui'ishing town was taken from Dedham in 1724. Population, 1837, 1,-592. It is 20 miles S. W. from Boston, 10 S. W. from Dedham, and 21 N. by W. from Providence, E. I. Waltliani, Me. Hancock co. Population, 1837, 207. Wheat crop, same year, 35(5 bushels. See " Down East." Waltliam, Vt. Addison CO. Buck mountain lies near the centre of this town, and as it is the highest land in the county, west of the Green mountains, its summit exhibits a good view of a delightful section of country. Waltham lies on the east side of Otter Creek, which separates it from Panton. Otter Creek, at this place, is sluggish in its course, and affords no mill privileges. The soil is gen- erally good ; that along the stream is excellent. The uuiiiiier of sheep in Waltham, in 1837, was 3,890. Population, 1830, 330. It is 9 miles N. W. from Middlebury, and 24 S. from Bui'linaton. Waltliam, Mass. Middlesex co. This is one of the many beautiful towns which environ the capitol of New England. It is 10 miles W. by N. from Boston, and 9 S E. from Concord. It was in- corporated in 1737. Population, 1S30, 1,859; 1837,2,287. The surface is moderately level, with some elevations. " Prospect Hill," 470 feet above the level of the sea, presents a delightful view of Boston, its harbor, and the adja- cent towns and country. The soil is generally not very feilile, but is rendered productive by industry. "Waltham Plain" is a beautiful ti-actof land, under aliigh state of cultivation. It is about two and a half n.iiles in length, and a mile in width. On the road over this plain is a continuous village, containing many handsome dwellings and beau- tii'ul gardens ; among the numher, that of tlie Hon. Theodore Lymaa is pre-eminently beautiful. Mr. Lyman's garden, of many acres in extent, decorated with almost every variety of fruit tree, shrub and flower, both native and exotic, is pi-obably unsurpassed, in costliness and splendor, by any private estab- lishment of the kind in the United States. In this town the first .cotton mill, on an extensive scale, was erected, in 1814. The capital of the compa- ny was ^000,000. By extraordinary skill and good management, through all the vai'ious commercial changes, this establishment pioved luciative (o the propiielors and highly bene- ficial to the public. .The waters of Charles river, which glide through the town, being fully improved, the proprietors extended their man- ufacturing operations at Lowell. There are in Waltham three cot- ton mills, a bleachei-y, a machine shop, a paper niill, and manufac- tures of hoots, shoes, hats, carria- ges, wagons, chaii's, cabinet and tia wares: total value, the year end- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ing April 1, 1S37, $3JS,067. The roads in tliis and the neighboring- towns, are uncommonly excellent. Perhaps in no section of country in the world, are the roads better than within 10 miles of Boston. Wardsborougli, Vt. Windham co. This town is 1.5 miles N. W. from 15rattlel)orougli, 20 N. E. from Bennington, and 10 N. W. from Newfune. It was first settled in 1780. Population, 1830, 1,148. The siirface of the town is hilly, and in some parts rocky : the soil is hard, but rendered |)roductive by the industry of its people. Wards- borough is watered by West river, and contains a number of minerals, of wliich tremolite and zoisite are the most important, and of whicli tine specimens are found. There are some mills in the town, but the water power is not extensive. Ware River, Ttlasjj. Branches of this large and pow- erful mill stream lise in Hubbards- ton, Barre and Oakham. It passes through Hardwick, New Braintree and Ware, and joins the Chickopee at Palmer. ■\Vare, Mass. Hampshire co. Ware possesses an admirable water power by Ware and iSwift rivers. The surface of the town is rough and hilly, and the soil more fit for grazing than tillage. In 1S37, there were 1,380 sheep in the town: value of wool, ,$l,6(i7. Ware is 6G miles W. by S. from Boston, 22 E. by S. from Northamp- ton, and 23 N. E. from Springfield. Incorporated, 17C1. Population, 1830, 2,045; 1837, 2,403. Ware contains a beautiful village which commands an active and flourishing trade. There are two cotton and two woolen mills in the town, and manufactures of boots, shoes, leather, hats, fin ware, straw bonnets, palm-leaf hats, augers, 37* sheet iron, starch, carriages, har- nesses, and boxes : total value, the year ending April 1, 1837, $645, 121. "Warehain, Mass. Plymouth co. The surface of this town is generally level, with a light, sandy soil, not very produc- tive. It is favorably situated for manufacturing pui'poses, being wa- tered by two tine mill streams, and for ship building, the tishery, and foreign and domestic commerce, having a number of good harbors at the head of Buzzard's bay. Wareham lies 50 miles S. S. E. from Boston, Ifi S. from Plymouth, and 15 E. N. E. from New IJedford. It was incorporated in 1739. Pop- ulation, 1830, 1,885; 1837, 2,16fi. There are in this town six nail fac- tories, six air and cupola furnaces, two rolling mills, 2 cotton mills, a paper mill, and manufactures of vessels, salt, nail casks, chairs, cabinet ware, leather, boots, shoes, &c. : the total value of these man- ufactures, the year ending April 1, 1837, was .'$1,2(30,637. The nura- berof hands employed in these man- ufactures, was 682. One whale ship, of 874 tons, belongs to this place : the cargo of oil, in 1837, amounted to $78,286. In 1836, there arrived and clear- ed at Wareham, 2 ships, 7 brigs, 86 schooners, and 193 sloops : aggre- gate tonnage, 20,140 tons. During that year there were exported from this place 7,107 tons of nails, 421 tons of iron hoops, 1,969 tons of hollow ware, 144 tons of iron cast- ings, 98 tons of nail rods, 386 doz- en of shovels, and 4,180 bushels of salt. The number of tons of manufactured iron, exported that year, was 9,76.5. Warner, K. II. Merrimack co. This town is bound N. by Sutton and Salisbury, E. by Boseawen, S. by Hopkinton and Ilennikei-, and \V. by Brad- ford. The distance of Warner NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. from Hopkinton is 8 miles, and from Concord, 15. It is watered by War- ner river, a handsome stream, which rises in the Sunnpee mountain in Newbury. It passes through Brad- ford, enters Warner at the N. W. corner, and running in an E. and S. E. direction, divides the town into nearly two equal parts, and falls into Contoocook river in Hop- kinton. The lands, though broken, have, in general a good soil. Mink hills lie in the W. part, and furnish tine orchards and good pasturage. There are four ponds, viz: Tom, Bear, Bagley and Pleasant ponds. Pleasant pond, the waters of which are clear and cold, deep, and of a greenish cast, has no visible outlet or inlet, and overflows its banks in the driest seasons. This town was granted in 1735, by the general court of Massachu- setts, to Dea. Thomas Stevens and others. It was incorporated in 1774, by the name of Warner. The tirst settlement was made in 1762, by David Annis and his son-in-law, Reuben Kimball, whose son Daniel was the tirst child born in town. Population, 18.30, 2,221. The following account of a terri- ble tornado, in this section of coun- try, is by the Rev. John W^oods, published in Piofessor Silliman's Journal, Vol. XXXV.— No. 2.— January, 1839. Mr. Woods says, " The event occurred about half past 5 o'clock, Sunday evening, September 9th, 1821. The wind, I suppose, was a proper whirlwind, precisely such as occasion water-spouts at sea. A very intelligent woman in War- ner, who, at a distance of two or three miles, observed its progress, compared its appearance to a tin trumpet, the small end downward, also to a great elephant's trunk let down out of heaven, and moving majestically along. She remarked, that its appearance and motion gave her a strong impression of life. When it had reached the easterly part of the town, she said the low- er end appeared to be taken up from the earth, and to bend around in a serpentine form, until it passed be- hind a black cloud and disappeared. Its course was southeasterly. It was attended with but little rain in some parts of its course, more in others. The rain, or what appear- ed like it, was in ni}' opinion taken from bodies of water which it pass- ed over. It was said, that it low- ered the water in a small pond iu Warner, about three feet. To peo- ple near Sunapee lake, in New London, I was told, it appeared as if the lake was rushing up towards heaven. The appearance of the cloud to beholders at a little dis- tance, was awfully terrific. It commenced its desolating progress east of Grantham mountain, in Croydon. In Wendell, beside oth- er buildings, it demolished a dwell- ing house, and carried a child who was asleep upon a bed, into Suna- pee lake. In New London and Sutton it did considei-al)le damage, but met with few dwelling houses and destroyed no lives. From Sut- ton it passed over the southwest branch or spur of Kearsarge moun- tain, with a gore of land belonging to Warner, called Kearsarge gore. At the foot of this mountain, it en- tirely demolished five barns, un- roofed another, and utterly destroy- ed two dwelling houses and so rent another as to render it irrepara- ble. "The houses wholly destroyed belonged to two brothers, Robert and Daniel Savary. They contain- ed fourteen persons. In the house of the latter were their aged par- ents, seventy years old, I should think, or upwards. The old gen- tlemen, as he saw the cloud com- ing, went into a chamber to close a window, and was there when the wind struck the house. He was can-led four or five rods, dashed upon the rock, and instantly killed. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. A part of his brain was left upon the rock where he fell. His wife was very badly wounded, and it was thought would not recover. A child of Daniel Savary, in the same house, was also killed. In the house of Robert Savary, several were much wounded and bruised, but no lives lost. The houses and barns and other buildings at this place were not only levelled with the foundation, but the materials and contents were dashed in ten thousand pieces, and scattered in every direction. Carts, wagons, sleighs, ploughs, and sleds which were new and strong, (one ox-slcd, I recollect, was entirely new,) were carried to a considerable dis- tance — from twenty to sixty rods — and so broken and shattered as to be tit only for fuel. Stone walls were levelled, and rocks, weighing two, three, or four hundred pounds, were turned out of their beds, apparent- ly by the bare force of ihe wind. Large logs, also, two feet or more in diameter, which were bedded in- tothe ground, and were lifly or sixty feet long, were not suHiciently weighty to retain their location. In one instance I recollect to have .seen one large log lying upon an- other in such a condition, that it was thought by good judges, that ten yoke of oxen could not have moved the lower one from its bed ; but both were removed by the wind several feet. An elm tree near where old Mr. Savary fell, which was one foot at least in di- ameter, and too strongly rooted to yield, was twisted like a withe to the ground, and lay prostrate across the path like a wilted weed. Not an apple or forest tree was left standing. One barn was seen to be taken up whole, with its contents of hay, grain, &c. After being carried several rods, it came to pieces, and flew like featliers in every direction. From the neighborhood of the Savarys, it passed over another spur of the mountain, and fell with great violence on the buildings of Peter Flanders and Joseph True. Their houses, which were hut a few rods distant, one in Warner, the other in Salisbury, were utterly demolished. In Mr. F.'s liouse were nine per- sons, two of whom were instantly killed. Mr. F. and wife were very i)a^37, 1,196. It is wa- tered by Chickopec river, and con- tains one coJton ami two woolen mills, a scythe fat^tory and manu- factures of |)alm-leaf hats. The value of goods annually made in the town, is about, •175,000. A large portion of the lands in Wai-rcn are uneven and hilly, but the soil is warm, and fuvoiable to the growth of grain, and the support of sheep, of which 1,110 were kept in -1837. Tlie village is quite pleasant. Warren, R. I. Bristol CO. This small town, com- prising- an area of only about 2,600 acres, is situated on the E. side of Narraganset bay, and is bounded N. and W. by Palmer or Warren river, E. by Massachusetts, and S. by Bristol. It is 11 miles S. E. from Providence, and 19 S. by E. from Newi)ort. Incoipoiated, 1746. Pop- ulation, 1S30, 1,S00. The surface of Warren is undu- lating, with a soil of rich mould, very fertile and productive. Great attention is paid in this place to ag- riculture, ami particularly to hoi'ti- culturc ; and all the varieties of fruits and culinary vegetables are produced in abundance and perfec- tion. Warren has a safe and com- modious harbor for vessels of 300 tons burthen: a number of vessels are owned here, engaged in foreign commerce, the coasting trade and fishery. Ship building has been pursued here to a great extent, and some vessels are now built, but not so many as formerly. This jjlace has pioduced a great numberof ex- cellent saiioi's and ship masters, as well as ship builders. The village is delightfully situa- ted on a rise of ground fronting the harbor: it is neatly built, and is surrounded by a variety of interest- ing scenery. This town is noted for the h<;althiness of its climate, and the longevity of its inhabitants. In 1834, there were only 19 deaths in the town, and the average asre of 7 of those was S.5 years. War- ren is a fine resort in summer, and is much frequented. AVarren, Ct. Litchfield co. Warren was taken NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. from Kent, in 17S6. It is bounded on tJie E. by Litclifield, and is 38 niiles W. from Hartford. Tbe town' is watered by Shepaiig river, a branch of the Housatonick, and by a large and handsome pond, called Raumaug. Warren is hilly and rocky, and in some parts mountain- ous. It however produces butter, cheese, beef, pork, some srain, and considerable wool. Population, in 1830, 986. Warwick, Mass. Franklin co. This town is ele- vated, and contains Mount Grace, from which a delightful prospect is presented. The soil is strong, warm, and produces excellent pastui'age. There are no considerable streams in the town, and its manufactures consist only of leather, scythes and palm-leaf hats. Moose pond, a pleasant sheet of water, furnishes an abundance of fine trout, picker- el and perch. Warwick was incorporated in 1763. Population, 1837, 1,111. It is 78 miles W. N. W. from Boston, and 14 E. by N. from Greenfield. ■Warwick, R.. I. Kent CO. This important town, the Indian Shaioomet, is situated en t'he W. side of Narraganset bay, 5 miles S. from Providence. Pop- ulation, 1820, 3,443 ; 1830, 5,.529. It contains an area of 54 square miles. The surface of the town, along the bay, is generally level, but the westerly part is hilly, so much so that from some of the el- evations, a large part of the state may be seen in a clear day. The prevailing soil is a gravelly loam, strong, and productive of grain, grass, fruits and vegetables. The town is well supplied with a great variety of fish, and forests of wal- nut, oak and chesnut. Pawtuxet river washes the north- ern part of the town, and meets the waters of the Narraganset at this place, separating Warwick from Cranston. An arm of the bay ex- tends westward, giving to Warwick and East Greenwich a number of excellent harbois. Vessels of 50 tons burthen pass to the flourishing village of Apponaug, between 4 and 5 miles fiom the ba)^ This vil- lage is pleasantly located, 10 miles S. from Providence, and is the site of considerable enter])rize in ship building, the fishery, and the coast- ing trade. Pawtuxet village is at the mouth of Pawtuxet river, a port of entry, and lays partly in Warwick, and partly in Cranston. This beautiful village, 5 miles S. from Providence, is celebrated for its great hydraul- ic power on navigable waters. War- wick is eminently distinguished as a manufacturing town ; but all we can at pi-esent state is, that but ve- ry few villages in our country can. boast of a more valuable manufac- turing interest, particularly in cot- ton goods. As early as 1822, there v.ere 15 cotton and 2 woolen mills in Warwick. Warwick is the birth place of two distinguished patriots and warriors. Col. Christopher Green was born in 1737. He was in the ill- fated attack upon Quebec, in which the brave Montgomery fell. He was afterwards selected by Wash- ington to take charge of Fort Mer- cer, or Red Bank, N. J. For his gallant defence of that Fort against a superior force, in 1777, he ac- quired the reputation of a brave, judicious and faithful officer. He was assassinated in the most bru- tal manner, in 1781, by a partj'- of American royalists, while sta- tioned on the boi'derof Croton river, New York. Major General Nathaniel Green was born in 1741. He died in Georgia, in 1786. General Green early received the particular favor of Washington. This favor was continued throughout the war, and was strengthened by his ardent patriotism, undaunted courage, pru- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. dence, and superior military know- ledge. " Witliin a mile from the village of Apponaug maj' be seen a huge rock, so completelj' balanced upon another, and its equilibrium so ex- act, that a boy 14 years of age may set it in such motion that the contact or collision caused thereby, pi-odu- ces a sound somewhat like tiiat of a drum, but more sonorous, which in a still evening may bo heard a distance of 6 or S miles. Hence, from time immemorial, it has gone by the name of the Drum Rock. From the pondt-rous weight of that part which is thus nicely balanced, it is generally believed that no oth- er than the hand of nature ever could have done it. Yet some are inclined to believe, that it was thus placed by the herculean labor of some tribe of the natives. Thei-e remains no doubt, but that this was a place of their resort or encamp- ment ; and that the Drum Rock served them either to give an alarm in case of danger, or to call the tribe together from their daily avocations. This rock is considered as a great curiosity, excites much attention, and consequently is at the present day a place of mucii resort, par- ticularly in the pleasant season of the year.' '^''asbingtou Connty, Mc. Machias is the shire town. This county is of a singular form. It extends from the Atlantic ocean to the border of Lower Canada, a dis- tance of more than 3 1-2 degrees of latitude. Its interior part, for more than 175 miles, is but 14 miles in breadth : that part near the sea is about 50 nvilcs in width. This territory is bounded N. by Lower Canada, II. by New Brunswick, S. by the ocean, and W. by the coun- ties of Hancock and Penobscot. It contains an area of about 4,150 square miles. About a third part of this county may be said to be settled ; the residue is a densely wooded wilderness. The charac- ter of the surface and soil of this county, is much the same as that of the adjacent counties of Han- cock and Penobscot. In common with all the Atlantic counties in Maine, Washington county possess- es its numerous bays, inlets, capa- cious harbors, and pleasant islands, so admirably adapted to foreign and domestic commerce, the fisheries and ship building. The St. Croix is its most impor- tant river. The banks of this no- ble stream are rapidly settling, by Yankees on one side and English- men on the other; and long may it be a channel, not only of individu- al and national wealth, but of " good nature and good humor, between people, who, though under dilTcrcnt govei-nments, have the same Ian- guage, a similar religion, a kindred blood." The tonnage of the two districts in this county, Machias and Passa- maquoddy, in 1S37, was 19,072 tons. In 1837, the number of sheep in the county was 19,008: the same year it produced 27,014 bushels of wheat. The population of the coun- tv in 1S20, was 12,744 ; in 1S30. 21,294; and in 1837, 28,4.05: in- crease in 7 years,34 pr. ct., and in 17 years, 123 pr. ct. Pop. to sq. m., 7. AVasIiington, Me. Lincoln co. This town contains several ponds, and some branches of the Damariscotta and Mus- congus rise hei-e. It lies 35 miles E. from Augusta, and 25 N. N. E. from Wiscasset. Population 1837, 1,378. Wheat crop, same year, 2,269 bushels. Incorporated, 1811. It was formerly called Putnam. AVashiugton, N. \i., Sullivan co., lies, 22 miles N. N. E. from Keene, 20 E. by S. from Charlestown, and 35 W. from Con- cord. This town is hilly, but not mountainous. Lovewell's moun- tain, so called from Capt. Love- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. well's killing 7 Indians near it, is of a conical shape, about 3-4 of a mile in diameter, and may be seen at a considerable distance. Wash- ington abounds with springs, rivu- lets, and natural ponds, of the last of which, there are no less than IG, and some of them of considci-able magnitude. Island pond, so called from its being full of islands, is 2 miles long, and 1 1-2 wide. Half moon pond is 1 1-2 miles in length. Ashuelot pond is 1 1-2 miles long, and 1 mile wide, and is the source of one of the principal branches of Ashuelot river. Brockway's pond, a beautiful sheet of water, lying on a white sand, is 1 mile long and 1-2 a mile wide. Long pond, lying in this town and Stoddard, is 5 miles in length. These ponds abound with a variety of fish. A branch of Contoocook liver has its source fi-om several small ponds in the E. part of the town. The soil is generally deep and moist, better for grass than tillage. Washington was settled in 176S. It was first called Monad- nock, vVi7. 8. From its settlement, it was called Camden, till Decem- ber 13, 1776, when it was incorpo- rated by its present name. The first settlers had 150 acres of land each for settling. Population, in 1S30, 1,135. Wasliington County, Vt. MoNTPELiER is the chief town. This county is nearly in the centre of the slate, and l!ie principal part of it lies between the two ranges of the Green Mountains. It is hounded N. by Lamoille and parts of Chittenden and Caledonia coun- ties, E. by Caledonia county, 8. by Orange and Addison, and W. by Addison, and Chittenden, counties. It was incorporated in 1810, by the name of Jefferson, and took its pres- ent name in 1814. The county is finely watered by its chief river, the Winoo-iki, or Onion, and many of its important branches. These streams all'ord the county an abun- dant water power, and manufac- turing establishments increase and tloui'ish in this mountainous region. The sui'face of the county is uneven, hilly, and in some parts mountainous, but there is much valuable land along the streams, which in many parts are sluggish, and form large tracts of excellent intervale. The agricultural pro- ductions consist of neat cattle, hors- es, hogs, wool, and of the produc- tions of the dairy. In 1837, there were 60,025 sheep in Washington county. There are large bodies of beautiful granite, in the county, and slate of various kinds. Popu- lation, 1S20, 14,113; 1330, 21,378. Since 1830, there have been some small changes in Wasliington coun- ty, in regard to territory. We will thank any of our Green Mountain friends to give us all the necessary information respecting it, for future editions. The I'ail road from Bos- ton to Ogdcnsburgh will probably pass through tliis county, but we beg them not to wait for that event. Wasliington, Vt. Orange co. Rranches of Onion, Wait's and White livers rise in this town, but afford no considerable water power. The two former are called Jail Branches, from the cir- cumstance that the pioprietors were required by their charter, of 1781, to erect a jail within the limits of the town, at an early period. There is sonic excellent land along the streams, and the uplands are gener- ally arable, and arForil good pastu- rage. There is a neat village in the town, some trade and manufac- tures, and between 3,000 and 4,000 sheep are annually sheared. Wash- ington is 15 miles S. by E. from Montpclier, and is bounded S. by Chelsea. Population, 1S30, 1,374. "Wasliington, Mass. Berkshire co. This mountainous town is watered by branches of Westfield and Housatonick rivers. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. The soil is well adapted for grazing. In 18:57, 5,209 sheep were shear- ed in the town, producing 15,()27 pounds of wool, principally merino. There is found in this town a po- rous quartz, which is used as huhr stones, for mill stones ; and is re- markable for i-esistingheat. Wash- ington was incorporated in 1777. It is 122 miles \V. from Boston, and S E. from Lenox. Population, 1S37, 75S. Washington Cownty, R.I. Sorith ICini^stoi} isthc shire town. This is a maritime county situated in the southwcstei'n section of the state ; hounded on the north by Kent county, on the east by Nar- raganset bay, on the south by the Atlantic ocean, and on the west by the state of Connecticut. The av- erage length of the countj-, from east to west, is about 20 miles, and it has a mean breadth of more than 18 miles, comprising about 367 square miles. The geological char- acter of this county is primitive; the rocks consist of granite and oth- er original formations. The sur- face is generally diversified with moderate hills and narrow dales; there are, however, some consider- able eminences in the northwest section of the county, and some flats of considerable extent in the south section, bordering upon the Atlantic. The prevailing soil is a primitive gravelly loam, strong and fertile; there are some considera- ble tracts of sandy loam, and some of alluvial. A considerable section of this county was formerly called the Narraganset country, and was celebrated for an excellent breed of pacing horses; the other section was called the Shannock counti-y, and was equally distinguished for a valuable breed of neat ca'tle. This county still maintains a high reputation as a grazing district, and atFords many extensive and valua- ble dairies. But the auricultui'al interests are not confined exclu- 38 sively to the objects of the grazing business; in some sections of the county considerable attention is paid to the cultivation of grain, particu- larly Indian corn and barley ; some rye also is raised. The inhabitants are distinguished for their habits of industry and frugality, and in gen- eral enjoy their necessary results, Iiealth and competence. The waters of the county are ex- tensive and important, possessing a maritime border upon the Atlantic ocean and the Narraganset bay, of more tlian 50 miles extent. There are, however, but 2 or 3 harbors ; the principal of which is Wickford, in the noitheastei-n section of the county ; the next most important is the Pawcatuck. The principal in- terior waters of the county are em- bodied in the Pawcatuck river, which forms part of the western boundary of the state. The prin- cipal blanches of the Pawcatuck are the Wood and Charles rivers; which, with their tiihutary streams, water a large portion of the west- ern section of the county, and af- ford numerous sites for mills, and other hydraulic works. There are, in the county, several salt and fresh water ponds, which are well supplied with fish. The fisheries of the county are extensive and valuable, affording employment to considerable indus- try, which is usually well reward- ed. The fish taken, not only sup- ply the home consumption, but con- stitute an article of exportation. Although the commercial busi- ness carried on within the county is not very considerable, yet its maritime situation has had its nat- ural influence upon the habits of the people ; a considerable portion of whom are employed in seafaring business. The manufacturing interests of the county are considerable, and consist principally of the woolen and cotton manufactures, and the business of ship building. Besides NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. these, there is considerable me- chanical industry in the other de- partments of mechanical business. In 1837, there were 81,619 sheep in the county. Population, in 1800, 16,13.5; 1810, 14,963; in 1820, 15,687; 1830, 15,411. Population to a square mile, 42. From this statement of the population, it ap- pears that this county must have suffered greatly by emigration. Washington, Ct. Litchfield co. Judea, the first society in this town, was a part of Woodbury until 1741. It was first settled in 1734. It was incorpora- ted as a town in 1779. This town is 40 miles S. W. from Hartford, and 10 S. W. from Litch- field. Population, 1830, 986. "A large part of this town is el- evated and mountainous. Lime- stone abounds in many of the val- leys. Several quarries of marble have been worked, from which con- siderable quantities have been rais- ed. Iron ore has been found in va- rious places. Ochre, fuller's earth, and white clay, have also been found. The town is watered by the Shepaug river, a branch of the Housatonick, which passes thi-ough the whole length of the town, di- viding it into two nearly equal parts. The town is divided into two so- cieties, Judea and New Preston. There is in Judea, or Washington as it is called, about two miles S. W. of the centre of the town, a place called" Steep Rock." From the top of this eminence, which is easy of access, the beholder has one of the most interesting and beautiful prospects in the state. The scene presents an area in the form of an amphitheatre, the sides of which are covered with a dense forest. The Shepaug river is seen flowing in a beautiful circle at the base of the bluff. Within the cir- cle of the river, there are several cultivated fields, affording a beauti- ful landscape to the beholder. " This town has been the theatre of one of the most atrocious mur- ders ever committed in New Eng- land. The mui-derer was a man or rather fiend, by the name of Barnett Davenport. From his own confes- sion, it appears that his parentage and early education were exactly fitted to produce his wicked life and his tragical end. Untutored and unrestrained by parental govern- ment, he was left to grow up at random. In the morning of life, no morality was inculcated upon him, and no sense of religion, either by precept or example. On the contrary, he was, from early years, unprincipled, profane, and impious. Before he was 9 years old, he was expert in cursing and swearing, and an adept in mischief. At 11 years he began (o pilier. At 13 he stole money. At 15 he entertained thoughts of murder, and rapidly waxed harder and bolder in wick- edness. At 19, he actually mur- dei-ed a family in cold blood. As a friendless wandering stranger, he was taken into the house of Mr. Caleb Mallory, and treated with the utmost kindness, in December, 1779. Scarcely two months had elapsed, before the murder was de- termined on. The night of Febru- ary 3(1, 1780, was fixed on to exe- cute the horrid purpose. With a heart hard as adamant, he lighted a candle, went into the lodging room of his benefactoi's, and beat them to death with a club. A little grand child being with its grand parents shared the same fate, and two others were left in a sound sleep to perish in the flames. Having kindled a fire in three of the rooms, he fled, after robbing the house of its most valuable articles. But from an ac- cusing conscience, and from the hand of justice, which followed hard upon his steps, he was unable to flee. He was taken, and execu- ted at Litchfield in the May ensu- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Waterborougli, Me. York CO. Tliis town is watered by a large and pleasant pond, which empties into Little Ossipee river, a branch of the Saco, and hy the head branches of the Mousuni, a stream which meets the ocean at Kennebunk. This is a flourishing town, with a pleasant surface and good soil. It lies 81 miles S. W. from Augusta, 24 W. from Portland, and is bounded S. by Alfred. Incor- porated, 17S7. Population, 1S30, 1,816; 1837, 1,953. AVaterbury, Vt. Washington co. The surface of Waterbury is generally level, with some pleasant swells. The soil is warm and fertile : the meadow lands on the rivers, of which there are large tracts, are not excelled, iij richness, by any in the state. This town is separated from Duxbury by Onion river, which, with Waterbury river and other streams, afford the town a good water power. It was first settled in 1784. Population, 1830, 1,650. It lies 12 miles N. W. from Mont- pclier, and 24 E. S. E. from Bur- lington. in the southwest corner of the township, the passage of Onion riv- er through a considerable hill, is considered a curiosity. The stream has here worn a channel through the rocks, which in times past, un- doubtedly, formed a cataract below of no ordinary height, and a consid- erable lake above. The chasm is at present about one hundred feet wide, and nearly as deep. On one side the rocks are nearly perpendic- ular, some of which have fallen across the bed of the stream, in such a manner as to form a bridge, pas- sable, however, only at low water. On the same side the rocks which appear to have been loosened and moved by the undermining of the water, have again rested, and be- come fixed in such a posture as to form several caverns or caves, some of which have the appearance of rooms fitted for the convenience of man. Several musket balls and flints were found in the extreme part of this cavern, a few years since, with the appearance of hav- ing lain there many years, which makes it evident that it was known to the early huntei-s. Waterbury River, rises in Mor- ristown, and runs south through the western part of Stow and Wa- terbury into Onion river. In Stow, it receives one considerable tribu- tary from the east which rises in Worcester, and two from the west which rise in Mansfield. It also receives several tributaries from the west, in Waterbury, which originate in Bolton. The whole length of the stream is about 16 miles, and it affords a number of good mill privileges. Waterbury, Ct. New Haven co. The Indian Mattatuck, a territory comprising this and some of the neighboring towns, being 18 miles in length and 10 miles in width, was sold by the red men to the whites,, in the year 1684, " for divers good causes and thirty-nine pounds." This piece of ground was supposed by the white men, to afford sufficient room and accommodations for thirty fam- ilies. The territory now contains 8,000 people ; and if its population was as dense as that of England, in 1831, it would contain no less than 20,'ilO, or of Belgium, 35,370 souls. There are some good lands on the borders of the streams, within the present limits of Waterbury ; but the surface of the town is gen- erally rough, and the .soil difficult of cultivation. This town lies 28 miles S. W. from Hartford, and 20 N. by W. from New Haven. Population, 1830, 3,070. " The site upon which the bor- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. ough of Waterbury stands, is situa- ted in a valley which is washed by Mad river on the east, and the Nau- gatuck on the west ; and in its cen- tral partis about a mile in breadth. The main street runs east and west ; but since the increase of the manu- facturing establishments within the last twelve years, a large share of the new buildings have been erect- ed in their vicinity, which is in the southeast part of the village. On either side of the village, hills gradually rise, to a considerable elevation, presenting to the eye the galiei'ies of an amphithea- tre, the village forming the area. The number of houses is about one hundied and iifty, and the popula- tion fifteen hundred ; which it is calculated has doubled itself dur- ing the last twelve years; most of the factories having been established within that time. Some of tlie private dwellings may be called splendid, and a majority of them neat, convenient, with handsome court yards in front. " Of the articles manufactured in the village, those of gilt buttons and the rolling of brass and copper metals for a great variety of uses, constitute thp greatest business. There are three factories of thi§ kind upon an extensive scale, two in the village, and one about two miles north, connected with which is a gold rehnery. There are like- wise two factoiies of gilt buttons upon a considerable scale, uncon- nected with rolling mills. One extensive rolling mill connected with the brass wire and tubing- manufacture, two satinet factoiies, one woolen factory, besides a great number of minor establishments, in which buttons of various kinds and other articles are manufactured to a considerable extent. The numlier of persons in the village, of both sexes, who are employed in the manufacturing establishments, is between six and seven hundred. It is not precisely known what amount is manufactured yearly, but it has been estimated by good judges to exceed a million of dollars, and is upon the increase. The route has been surveyed by a prac- tical engineer, for constructing a canal to bring the Naugatuck on to the bank at the west end of the town, which will, when completed, atford a supply of water power, ca- pable of employing as much or more capital than has been already invested." Samuel Hopkins, D. D., the founder of a religious sect, denom- inated Ho])kinsians, was boi-n in this town, in 1721. He died at Newport, R. I., in 1803. See Eeli- gious Creeds, and Statistics. Dr. Lemuel Hopkins, a poet, and an eminent physician, was born in Waterbury, in 1750. He died »i Hartford, in ISOl. Waterfortl, Me. Oxford CO. This town is water- ed by a number of beautiful ponds, and Crooked river passes through its noitheast border. The surface is generally level and the soil good. It produced in 1837, 5,545 bushels of wheat. Waterford was incorporated in 1797. It lies 57 miles W. by,S. from Augusta, and 10 W. by S. from Paris. Population, in 1837, 1,297. "IVaterfoi-d, Vt. Caledonia co. This town was chartered in 17S0, by the name of Littleton, which name it retained until 1797. It was first settled in 1787. it lies on the west side of Connecticut river, 32 miles E. N. E. from Mon'pelier, and 12 E. S. E. from Danville. Population, 1830, 1,358. The west pai-tof the town is watered by the Passumpsic, and the north bolder by Moose river. Here is a water power, and some manufactures. A part of the town borders on Fifteen Mile Falls, in Connecticut river. The banks of NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. that river are steep at tliis place, and form but little intervale. The uplands are rough and stony, hut good for sheep, of which 3,500 are kept. AVaterford, Ct. New London co. This town was taken from New London in 1801. It is washed on the east side by the river Thames ; and on the south by Long Lsland Sound, from which a hay or inlet extends, be- tween Millstone and Black Points, quite into the centre of the town, affording a harbor for small vessels. This is a resort for fishermen on the Sound, and many species of the finny tribe are taken captive. There are a number of ponds in the town, three considerable mill streams, and two woolen factories. The surface of the town is rocky and uneven, with a gravelly loam, pro- ductive of corn, vegetables, fruits, and feed for cattle. In 1837, it con- tained 2, .582 sheep. Waterford lies 37 miles S. E. from Hartford, and 4 \V. from New Lon- don. Population, 1S30, 2,463. Waterqucccliy River, "Vt. See Queechy River. AVatertovrii, Mass. Middlesex co. Charles river gives this town a valuable water power, which is well improved. The river is navigable to the centre of the town for vessels of 6 or 7 feet draught of water. The surface of the town is diver- sified by hills and valleys, which is rendered very beautiful by a high state of cultivation, and by the nu- merous villas, neat farm houses, cottages, and delightful gardens which meet the eye in every direc- tion. A part of the beautiful sheet of water, called "Fresh Pond," and apart of the celebrated Mount Auburn Cemetery lie in this town. On the north bank of the river, a short distance below the princi- 38* pal village, the United States Arse- nal, containing a large amount of munitions of war, occupies a site of 40 acres of ground. At the commenrement of the revolution- ary war, this place was the chosen seat of the continental congress. That body of patriots was in session at Watertown on the day of the battle of " Bunker Hill." There are two paper mills in the town, a cotton mill, print works, an establishment for linishing woolen goods, and manufactures of soap, candles, boots, shoes, boxes, &.c. Large quantities of beef, pork, bacon, &.C., are annually packed at this place for the Boston market, and for transportation. In 1837, three soap and candle manufactories used 300 tons of tallow, 3.50 tons of barilla, 50 tons of palm-oil, 1,750 barrels of rosin, 2,000 casks of lime, and 1,000 bushels of salt. Watertown was first settled in 1630, by the sons of Sir Kichard Saltonstall and others. It was in- corporated the same year. Popu- lation, 1830, 1,641; 1837, 1,739. It is 7 miles W. from Boston. Its Indian name was Pigsgusset. Waterto^vii, Ct. Litchfield co. This town lies 30 miles S. S. W. from Hartford, 26 N. by W. from New Haven, and 10 S. E. from Litchfield. Popu- lation, 1830, 1,500. Watertown was formerly a parish in Waterbnry, by the name of West- bury. It was incorporated as a town in 1780. It is bounded N. by Litchfield, E. by the Naugatuck river, separating it from Plymouth, W. by Bethlem and Woodbury, and S. by ]\Ii(ldlcbury and Waterbury. It is about 6 1-2 miles in length, and 4 in breadth. The township is gen- erally uneven, or rather hilly ; but some sections are level. The pre- vailing soil is a dry gravelly loam, and best adapted to grazing, but the different grains common to this part of the country are cultivated. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Steel's brook, a sprightly stream, passes through the central part of the town, and for a mile below and some distance above the centre of the town, a chain of rich meadows, though small in extent, border the sides of this stream. This is the birth place of John Trumbull, the celebrated author of " McFingal." He graduated at Yale College, and studied law with John Adams, in Boston. The first part of his McFinaal appeared in 1775. It was completed in 17S2. He was a judge of the Supeiior Court of Connecticut fiom 1801 to 1819. In 1825, he removed to Detroit, where he died, in 1831, aged 81 years. The people of this town make some boast of the size of their for- est trees. It is said, as an extraor- dinary fact, " that one of the first settlers, having no shelter for the night, peeled off the bark of one of the trees he had felled, and lay down upon the inside. In the morning when he awoke, he found the bark rolled up so closely that it was with some difficulty he could extricate himself." This story will do to tell as far west as Connecticut, but the ' Dpwn Easters' would laugh at it. It would take Dame Nature more than a night to screw up the bark of one of their common pines even to the circumference of the New Hampshire Giant. The Maine folks willingly grant to Connecti- cut the tallest poets, but claim to their state the biggest trees. Water ville, Me. Kennebec co. This town is situ- ated on the west bank of the Ken- nebec river, 18 miles N. fiom Au- gusta. It was incorporated as a part of Winslow in 1771, and as a separate town in 1802. Popu- lation in 1820, 1719; in 1830, 2,216; in 1837, 2,905. It contains .30 square miles, mostly of the best quality of farming land of the ', Kennebec region. Seven twelfths of the population is estimated to be agricultural. The principal village, of about ISO houses, is on the Ken- nebec, at Ticonic Falls. These falls are 18 feet in height, extending quite across the river. In the town, there are 17 saws, four grist mills, carding machines, three plaster mills, two extensive tanneiics and a machine shop. One iron (oundry, a branch of the celebrated Fair- banks establishment in Vermont, si'.pplies a great portion of the inte- rior of the state with ploughs. The public structures are 4 meeting houses, an Academy, and the Lib- eral Institute, a Seminary founded by Universalists. This latter edi- fice, though small, is one of the most beautiful specimens of archi- tecture in the state. Ticonic bridge, crossing the Kennebec, 550 feet in length, is a fine specimen of Col. Long's plan of construction. Waterville College is pleasantly situated near the village, on the bank of the river. There are 2 ed- ifices for rooms, a chapel, and a commons hall. This Institution was founded in 1813, as a Theolo- gical school; in 1821 it was con- verted into a College, and has 143 graduates. It was founded by Baptists, but is open to all denomi- nations, and affords facilities for manual labor. Its Faculty is a President, three Professors, and two Tutors. From Augusta, the head of sloop navigation, goods are transported to Waterville in large flat-boats, some of which carry 40 tons. This renders the place an important depot of merchandise for an extensive country above, and of produce and manufactures brought down to be shipped for a market : great quanti- ties of oats; shingles and other lum- ber, leather, potash and potatoes, are thus transported from this place. The erection of a dam at Augusta, is thought to have improved the navigation, and affords facilities for NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. making Waterville the centre of trade for tlie country above. A steam boat now runs between this place and the lower towns. The village of West Waterville is on Emerson stream, a tributary of the Kennebec. Here is a rcmark- ble cascade, the highest known in the state, and is much resorted to for its picturesque scenery. At this village are manufactories for cut- ting out last blocks, which are e.\- portcd in great quantities to Massa- chusetts, and a scythe factory of high reputation, which made 300 dozen scythes in the year 183S. The water power at Waterville and in the vicinity, is singularly great. A circle described from the Ticonic fiills, before named, as a centre, with a radius of live miles, includes two falls across the whole Kennebec, at Kendall's mills, two miles above Waterville; two falls, 5 miles distant, on tlie Sebasticook, a large tributary stream ; and an in- delinite series of falls upon the Emerson stream, fi-om the cascade to its confluence, besides numerous rajiids, which could easily be dam- med, on all these streams. It is be- lieved that no similar circle of 10 miles diameter in New England, comprehends so large and conven- ient water power. But a very small part of this power is yet occupied, and situated as Waterville is, in the centre of these manufacturing fa- cilities, enjoying convenient boat navigation to the sea ports, with an extensive region of the best agri- cultural advantages in the rear, it promises to become a thrifty and populous town. AV'aterville, BT. H. Grafton co. This town compris- es the territory called Gillis and Foss' Grant, until its incoiporation, in 1829. It is bounded N. by un- granted land, E. by Albany, S. by Sandwich, and W. by Thornton. It was granted June 29, 1819, to Jo- siah Gillis, Moses Foss, jr. and oth- ers. It is watered by Mad river, which rises among the mountainous ti-acts on the N. ; runs S. W. about 20 miles, and falls into Pemigewas- set river in Campton. Swift river has its source in this town, pursues an E. course through Albany, into Conway, where it unites with Saco river. There are 2 ponds, and sev- eral considerable elevations. Mo- ses Foss, jr. commenced the settle- ment some years since. It has 96 inhabitants. ^Vatervme, Vt. Lamoille co. This town is envi- loned by mountains, and is itself mountainous. It is watered by a branch of Lamoille river, and is bounded E. by Belvidere, Vf . by Fletcher. It lies about 25 miles S. E. from St. Albans. Population, 1830, 4S8. ■\Vaylaiid, Mass. Middlesex co. The name of this town was East Sudburj-, from 1780 to 1835. It lies on the east side of Sudbury river, and is bounded east by Weston. The surface of the town is pleasant ; the soil is gener- ally good, and contains some well cultivated farms. There are 4 for- ges in this town, and manufactures of chairs and cabinet wai'e ; "but the pi'incipal manufacture is that of l)oots and shoes ; the annual value of which is about .$25,000. Way- land is 16 miles \V. from Boston, and 7 S. from Concord. Population, 1837,931. Wayne, Me. Kennebec co. Wayne lies N. of Leeds, and is situated a little be- low the centre of a chain of beau- tiful lakes or ponds, whose outlet, which passes through the town, falls into the Androscoggin. The centre of the town is about 4 miles east of the Androscoggin, and 16 W. from Augusta. The surface of the town is undulating, and the soil fertile. It was incorporated in 1798. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Population, in 1837, 1,170. Wheat crop, same year, 3,268 bushels. AVeare, N. H. Hillsborough co. The only riv- er in Weare, is the N. W. branch of Piscataquog, which enters the west boundary fi-oni Deering, and meanders through the N. and E. sections of the town, and passes the S. line about half a mile from the S. E. corner. This river affords the best mill seats in the town. There are three small ponds in this town. Rattlesnake hill, nearly in the centre of the N. line of the town, abounds with shelving rocks, abrupt precipices, forming dens and caves. During the summer season, the reptile from which the hill takes its name, is frequently found. The town, though rather broken, is not mountainous. It has small swamps, and some good meadows. It is now settled and cultivated to its extreme limits by industrious and wealthy husbandmen. It was incorporated in 1764, and receiv- ed its name in honor of Meshech Weare, chief justice of the prov- ince of N. H. Weare is 15 miles S. W. from Concord, and 17 N. N. W. from Amherst. Population, 1830, 2,430. AVeatUersfield, Vt. Windsor co. [Those who wish to find the course and distance to the onion fields in Connecticut, or to their fair cultivators, will please see Wethei-sfieW, Ct.] Weathersfield was first settled about the year 1778. It is bounded S. by Springfield, N. by Windsor, and is 61 miles S. by E. from Mont- pelier. Population, in 1830, 2,213. This town lies on the west side of Connecticut river, at the " Bow," so called from a bend in the river. It contains large tracts of rich meadow land, and the uplands are of a good quality. William Jarvis, Esq., for many years a resident here, owns a large and superior farm, and has greatly benefited this section of country by the introduction of new modes of agriculture, and more valuable breeds of stock. The agricultural products of Weathersfield are very valuable : about 15,000 fleeces of fine wool are annually sheared. This town is large, and contains a number of pleasant villages. It is watered by several ponds, and by Black river, which gives it a water power, and which is applied to manufacturing operations to some extent. In common with all the towns on Connecticut river, Weath- ersfield has its share of delightful scenery ; and there is no better place to find it, in all its richness, than on the Asciitney , at the north part of the town. "Welbster, Mass. Worcester co. This town was incorporated in 1832, and named in coinpliment to Hon. Daniel Webster, including a part of Dudley and Oxford, and a tract of land previously unincorporated. It is bounded N. by Oxford, E. by Douglas, S. by Thompson, in Connecticut, and W. by Dudley. It is 46 miles W. S. W. from Bos- ton, 16 S. from Worcester, 45 E. by S. from Springfield, and 28 N. W. from Providence, R. I. Popu- lation, 1837, 1,210. There are in operation in this town two woolen and four large cotton mills, a cotton thread mill, 1 machine shop, 1 bleachery, a tan- nery, and a manufactory of tin ware : total value of manufactures, the year ending April 1, 1837, $312,277. French river and a pond give this place a large and unfailing water power. The original name of this pond, as appears from ancient deeds, was Chabanakongko7nom,the same name by which Dudley was known, though the latter probably borrow- ed it from the former. Some re- cords and maps of New England NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. have given the name of Chargo30. The surface of the town is very pleasant; the soil sood, and well cultivated. The Quinepoxct and Stillwater rivers meet the Nash- ua in this town. These streams fei- tilize a large poi-tion of the town, and afford a water power to propel a number of mills. There are in the town 7 cotton mills, and manufactures of bootK, shoes, leather, palm-leaf hats, cot- ton machinery, baskets, boxes, straw braid, hatchets and school appara- tus ; annual value about $200,000. The venerable Robert B. Thomas, author of the Farmer's Almanac, is a resident of this town. There ai-c some mineral treasures in West Boylston, and a sjiring, the water* of which are strongly impregnated with iron. AVest Bridscivalcr, Mass. Plymouth co. This is the sec- ond daughter of the venerable Biidsicwatcr, who found it ditficult to find names for her progeny. This NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. daughter was born in 1822, and al- though not so stout as her sisters, is healthy, comely and industrious. The manufactures of West Bridge- water consist of iron castings, shov- els, forks, lioes, ploughs, hoots and shoes: annual value, about $100,- 000. West Bridge water is suppli- ed with mill privileges by a branch of Taunton river; and is 25 miles S. from Boston, 19 N. W. from Plymouth and 9 N. N. E. from Taunton. The number ot her chil- dren in 1837, was 1,145; increase in 7 years, 103. In 1820, ancient Bridgewater contained 5,662 chiidi-en : the whole family, in 1837, consisted of 7,865 members. AVestbrooIc, Me. Cumberland co. This flourishing town was taken from Falmouth in 1814. It is 52 miles S. S. W. from Augusta, and is bounded E. by Portland. The Presunipscot river passing through the town from west to east, furnishes it with rich inter- vales, and numerous valuable mill privileges. The Cumberland and Oxford canal also passes through the town. This town is noted for its working cattle which are said to equal any in the country. The pi'incipal place of business in Westbrook, is at the pleasant vil- lage of Saccarappa, where are large operations in the manufacture of lumber, and where has recently been erected, by citizens of Port- land, a large brick cotton mill, con- taining 2,900 spindles, and 104 looms, and which is in successful operation. Stroudwater, another village, has some navigation employed in the fishery and coasting trade, and has been celebrated for the fine ships built there. In Westbrook are ex- tensive manufactures of tin ware and combs, which are sent to all p.irts of the United States. The scenery along the canal, and about the falls on the Prvisuinpscut, is very pleasant. Population, 1830, 3,238 ; 1837, 3,755 West Caiubridge, J>fass. Middlesex co. This was a par- ish of Cainbri' the c)iildren, wlicn she caine down stairs ; he g;ivc her a Hno to the family physici;in, who lived at the distance of a quarter of a mile ; ordered her to carry it immediately, at the same time declarin;i- that Mrs. Beadle had been ill all niiiht, and directin<^ her to stay until the phy- sician siiould come with her : this he repeated sundry times with a degree of ardor. There is much reason to believe he had murdered Mrs. Beadle before he awaked the maid. Upon the maid's leavini^ the house he immeiliatelj' proceeded to execute hi-i purpo-^e on the children and himself. It appears he had for some time before, carried to his bedside every niglit an a\e and a carving knife ; he smote his wife and each of the children with the axe on the side of the head as they lay sleeping in their hsds ; the wo- man had two wounds in the head, the skull of each of them was frac- tured ; he then with the carving knife cut their throats from ear to ear; the woman and little boy were drawn partly over the side of their beds, as if to prevent the bediling from being besmeared with blood : the thi-ee daughters were taken from tiie bed and laid upon tlie floor side by side, like three lambs, be- fore their throats were cut ; they were covered with a blanket, and the woman's ficc with a handker- chief. He then proceeded to the lower floor of the house, leaving marks of his footsteps in blood on the stairrJ, carrying with him the axe and knife, the latter he laid on the fable in the room where he was found, reeking with the blood of his family. Perhaps he had thoughts he might use it against himself if his pistols should fail. It appears he then seated himself in a Windsor chair, with his arms supported by the arms of the chair; he lixed the muzzles of the pistols into his two cars, and fired them at the s.ime in- stant: the balls went through the head in transverse directions. Al- though the neighbors were very near and some of them awake, none heard the report of the pis- tols. " The line to the physician ob- scurely announced the intentions of the man ; the house was soon opened, but alas, too late ! The bodies were pule and motionless, swimming in their blood, their faces white as mountain snow, yet life seemed to tremble on their lips : description can do no more than faintly ape and trifle with the real ligure. " Such a tragical scene tilled ev- ei-y mind with the deepest distress : nature recoiled, and was on the rack with distorting passions : the most poignant sorrow and tender pity for the lady and her innocent babes, who were the hapless vic- tims of the brutrtl, studied cruelty of an husband and father, in whose embraces they expected to lind se- curity, melted every heart. Shock- ing effects of pride and false notions about religion ! " To paint the first transports this affecting scene produced, when the house was opened, is beyond my reach. Multitudes of all ages and sexes were drawn together by the sad tale. The very inmost souls of the beholders were wound- ed at the sight, and torn by con- tending passions. Silent grief, with marks of astonishment, were succeeded by furious indignation against the author of the allecting spectacle, which vented itself in incoherent exclamations. Nature itself seemed rudled, and refused the kindly aid of balmy sleep for a time. " Near the close of the day on the 12th of December, the bodies being still unburicd, the people who had collected in great num- bers, grew almost frantic with rage, and in a manner demanded NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. the body of the murderer: the law being silent on the subject, it was difficult to determine where decen- cy required the body should be placed : many proposed it should be in an ignominious manner where lour roads met, without any coffin or insignia of respect, and perfora- ted by a stake. Upon which a question arose, where that place could be found Avhich might be unexceptionable to the neighbor- hood, but no one would consent it should be near his house or land. After some consultation it was thought best to place it on the bank of the river between high and low water mark : the body was handed out of the window and bound with cords on a sled, with the clothes on as it was found, and the bloody knife tied on his breast, without coifin or box, and the horse he usu- ally rode was made fast to the sled : the horse, unaccustomed to the draught, proceeded with great un- steadiness, sometimes running full speed, then stopping, followed by a multitude, until arriving at the wa- ter's edge, the body was tumbled into a hole dug for the purpose, like the carcase of a beast. "On the 13th of December, the bodies of the murdered were in- terred in a manner much unlike that of the unnatural murderer. The remains of the children were borne by a suitable number of equal age, attended by a sad pro- cession of youths of the town, all bathed in tears ; side by side the hapless woman's corpse was car- ried in solemn procession to the parish church yard, followed by a great concourse, who with affec- tionate concern and every token of resj)ect were anxious to express their heartfelt sorrow in pertbrm- ing the last mournful duties. " The person of Mr. Beaille was small, his features striking and full of expression, with the a-^pect of fierceness and determination ; his mind was contemplative ; when once he had formed an opinion, he was remarkably tenacious: as a merchant or trader, he was esteem- ed a man of strict honor and integ- rity, and would not descend to any low or mean artifice to advance his fortune. He was turned of 52 years of age when he died. " Mrs. Beadle was born at Ply- mouth in Massachusetts, of reputa- ble parents, a comely person, of good address, well bred, and unus- ually serene, sincere, unaffected and sensible. She died in the mid- dle of life, aged 32 years. " The children, (the eldest of which was a son, aged 12 years, the other three, daughters, the youngest aged 6 years) were such as cheered the hearts of their par- ents, who were uncommonly fond of displaying their little virtues and excellencies, and seemed to antici- pate a continuance of growing pa- rental satisfaction: alas, like early, tender buds nipped by untimely frosts, they did but begin to live ! " It is more than probable, that this man had for months past desir- ed that some or all of his children might be taken out of the woild by accident : he removed all means of secui-ity fi-om a well near his house, which he was careful heretofore to keep covered. His little boy he often sent to swim in the river, and has been heard to chide the child for not venturing further into deep water than his fears would suffer him. He has at times declared it would give him no pain or uneasi- ness to follow his children to the grave : his acquaintance knew these expressions could not arise from want of affection or tender- ness for his children, but rather imagined him speaking rashly in jest. He ever spoke lightly of death as a bugbear the world cause- lessly feared. It appears from his writings, he at first had doubts whether it was just and reasonable forliim to deprive his wife of life, and ort'ers against it only this reason, NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. that he had no hand in bringing her into existence, and consequent- ly had no power over her life. She set out on tlie 7th of Novem- ber on a journey to Fairfield, which he thought was by direction of Heaven to clear him of his doubts and remove her out of the way, at the time the business was to be done ; and his intention was to have executed his design on himself and children in her absence. She pro- ceeded no further than New Ha- ven, and by reason of some disap- pointment, returned ten days earlier than expected : he appeared cha- grined at her early return, and soon began to invent some justifying reasons for depriving her of life also. He finally concludes it would be unmerciful to leave her behind to languish out a life of misery and wretchedness, which must be the consequence of the surpiising death of the rest of the family, and that since they had shared the frowns and smiles of fortune together, it would be cruelty to her, to be di- vided from them in death." AV'cybridsfe, Vt. Addison co. AVeybridge is wa- tered by Otter Creek, which af- fords it good mill sites. Lemonfair river, a sluggish stream, also waters the town. Some parts of the town are mountainous, but the soil is gen- erally good : the basis being lime- stone, it yields good crops, and pas- tures about 6,000 sheep. It lies 30 miles S. by E. from Burlington, and is bounded on the S. E. by Middle- bury. Population, 1830, 850. ■Weymoutli, Mass. Norfolk CO. This was the sec- ond settlement made by white men in New England. Mr. Thom- as Weston, a respectable merchant of London, who had been active in promoting the interests of the IMymouth colonists, sent two ships and 50 or GO men to plant a colony at this place, in the year 1622. The 4J fate of the colony was as unfortu- nate as the designs of Mr. Weston were philanthropic. By the iinjnst and wanton conduct of his agents towards the natives, the colony would have been totally destroyed, were it not for the timely assistance afforded it by a band of men from the Plymouth Colony, commanded by the gallant Standish. The col- ony was broken up, and Mr. A\'es- ton lost his life on the coast in at- tempting to reach it. This place, the Indian JVessagusset, named Weymouth from a town in England, was however permanently settled by the Kev. William Morrill, Capt. Robert (ieorges and others, in the year 1624. The surface of the town is pleas- antly diversified by hills and val- leys. Some of the elevations are commanding, and present delight- ful views of Boston harbor, Mas- sachusetts bay and the adjacent country. The soil is a strong grav- elly loam, with a granitic super- structure. This town was formerly noted for its excellent dairies, particular- ly for its cheese of a superior ricli- ncss and flavor; but little of W'hieh is now made in consequence of the increased value of the lands. Weymouth is finely watered by large and beautiful [londs, aiul \iy two important arms of Boston har- bor, called Fore and Back rivers. These rivers are navigable for large vessels, and at their head are valua- ble mill privileges. Between these rivers, and between the towns of Braintree and Hingham is a largo tract of gently swelling land of good soil, extending to Quincy, and is united to " Quincy Point " by a bridge across Fore river. Over this ground the turnpike road between Quincy and Hingiiam passes. There arc several pleasant vil- lages in Weymouth, but the prin- cipal place of business in the town is at " Weymouth Landing," so NEW EXf;LA?vD GAZETTEER. called, or Washington Square, at the head of Fore river, on the line of Braintree. This place, being at the head of navigation for a large and flourishing section of country, haslongenjoyed, and musteverpos- sess superior privileges as a place of trade. About 1,000 tons of ship- ping is owned here, employed in the fishery and domestic trade. At this place are a number of wharves, ware houses, a steam saw mill, and manufactures of various kinds. Ship building is carried on to some extent, and large quanti- ties of lumber, flour, grain, lime, coal, wood, &c., are annually sold. This village lies on the Ply- mouth and New Bedford roads, 11 miles S. by E. from Boston, 24 N. N. W. from Plymouth, 14 S. E. from Dedham,5 W. from Hingham, and 9 S. S. W. from Boston Light. The village at the south part of the town is pleasantly situated on elevated ground, about 3 miles S. from Washington Square. The people here are extensively enga- ged in the manufacture of boots and shoes. Stages pass between these villa- ges and Boston, daily; and pack- ets, for the transportation of mer- chandize, navigate the rivers about nine months in the year. The roads in this section of the country are remarkably tine, and many citizens of Boston make Wey- mouth their summer residence. The manufactures of the town are various, but those of leather, boots and shoes, are the most con- siderable. The annual amount of these manufactures varies from $500,000 to $800,000. Weymouth was incorporated in 1635. Population, 1820, 2,404; 1330, 2,8.39 ; 1837, 3,387. This ancient town has been the birth place and residence of many men of great usefulness in society. Among the number, the name of Cotton Tufts, M. D., M. M. S. S. A. A. S., will long be re- membered as a revolutionary patri- arch and skillful physician. ■^Vhately, Mass. Franklin co. This town lies on the west side of Connecticut river, 9 miles N. from Northampton, 11 S. from Greenfield, and 92 W. by N. from Boston. Incorporated in 1771. Population, in 1837, 1,140. There are some pine plains, and a part of Sugar Loaf mountain ex- tends into the town from Deerfield ; still there are some tracts of good intervale land on the Connecticut, and smaller streams, by which it is watered. The number of sheep in Whately, in 1837, was 1,630 ; weight of wool, 4,953 lbs. : value, $2,8'62. There are 3 woollen mills in the town, 3 tanneries, 3 distilleries, and manu- factures of gimblets, augers, ham- mers, brooms, brushes, palm-leaf hats, boots, shoes, pocket-books, &c. Annual value, about .^90,000. ■\Vlieelocli, Vt. Caledonia co. There is some good land in this town, but a great part of it is mountainous or hilly, and fit only for the pasturage of sheep, of which about 3,000 are kept. The streams flow N. W. into the Lamoille ; and S. E. into the Passu mpsic. This town was granted in 1785, to the charity school at Dartmouth College, and named in honor of John Wheelock, who was, at that time, president of that institution. Wheelock lies SO miles N. N. E. from Montpelier, and 9 N. from Danville. Population, 1830, 834. ■^VUeel^vrigUt's Pond, N. H. See Lee. Wliite River, "Vt. This is the largest stream in the state on the east side of the Green Mountains. It waters a basin of about 700 square miles, and traver- ses in its course from Kingston, in NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Addison county, about 60 miles. It passes throu2;h Hancock, Rochester, and Pittsticid, in Rutland county, and Stockbrid!:;e, Bethel, Koyalton, and Sharon, in Windsor county, to its fall into the Connecticut at Hart- ford, about 5 miles above the mouth of Quecchy river. White river receives many large tributaries ; the most considerable of wliich are the three branches, so called, from the north ; and Broad brook and Locust creek from the south. This stream and its branches, afiford a great hydraulic power; and large tracts of country are fertiUzed by its waters. It passes through a country of lofty mountains, deep ravines and fertile valleys ; the scenery of which is much enhanc- ed by the devious course of this beautiful river. White Cap Moitntain, Me. See Jlndover. AVhitenelrt, Me. Lincoln CO. Sheepscot river pass- es through this town, giving it fer- tility, beauty, and a good water power. It lies 16 miles S. E. from Augusta, and 14 N. from Wiscas- set. Incorporated, 1809. Popula- tion, in 1837, 2,136. Wheat crop, same year, 3,637 busliels. WKiteneld, ]V. II. Coos CO. This is an irregular townsliip, lying S. from Lancaster, W. from Jelferson, N. from Carroll and Bethlehem, and E. from Dalton. It is 120 miles N. from Concord. Its soil is generally thin and light, of easy cultivation and tolerably good ; though in the N. part low spruce swamps abound. In this town lie part of Blake's, Long, Round and Little river ponds, be- side two other small ponds. The second of these is a beautiful pond of considerable size, abounding with fish. John's river passes throtigh this town. Whiteficld was granted July 4, 1774, to Josiah Moody and others, and soon after settled by Maj. Burns and others. Popula- tion, 1S30, 685. ■\Vhltclicacl, Me. Lincoln co. An Islan=;s., in 1704, and who, at the mouth of this stream, preach- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. cd a sermon to his fellow captives. Williams' river, in Massachu- setts. See JVest Stockbridge. Willianisbui-gli, Me. Piscataquis co. This town was incorporated in 1820. in 1834 the easterly part of the town was set off and called Barnard: this fact was unknown to the editor when the first pages of this edition were printed. The lands in Williamsburgh and Barnard are undulating, heavily wooded, with a fertile soil. The population of Willianisb\irgh, in 1837, was 120. Williamsburgh and Barnard are at present but thinly settled ; but in consequence of a vast body of slate for rooting houses and other ])urpo- .ses being found within their limits, the lands within these towns must enhance in value and increase in population. These quarries are common to both towns; they lie at an elevation of from 150 to 200 feet above Pleasant river, a branch of the Penobscot, which passes their northern and eastern borders, about two miles distant. These quarries are inexhaustible in quantity, and are stated to be fully equal to the celebrated Welsh slate. They are situated 40 miles N. from Bangor; and, by the Ban- gor and Piscataquis rail road, now in operation to Orono ; and in pro- gress from Orono to these quari'ies, the Bangor of the new world seems likely to become as celebrated for its fine slate as the Bangor of the old. See Barnard. 'Williamsliurgli, Mass. Hampshire co. The surface of this town is elevated and uneven ; but it is pleasant, and has a warm and fertile soil. It is watered by a good stream which meets the Connecti- cut at Northampton. It lies 8 miles N. W. from Northampton, and 100 W. from Boston. Incorporated in 1771. Population, 1837, 1,345. 41 The manufactures of the town consist of woolen cloth, (3 mills,) boots, shoes, leather, hats, iron cast- ings, a.\es, gimlets, screw drivei's, augers, punches, bitts and biit stocks, flexible and japan buttons, stocking yarn, and lather boxes; annual value, about ,*!200,000. — The value of buttons, manufactur- ed the year ending April 1, 18;57, was $102,500. In 1837, there were 2,815 sheep sheared in this town, whose fleeces weighed 8,362 pounds, and sold lor 5,017. AVllliamstowu, "Vt. Orange co. This town lies on the height of land between Onion and White rivers ; 10 miles S. E. from Montpeiier, and about the same dis- tance N. W. from Chelsea. First settled, 1784. Population, 1S3(), 1,487. This mountain town pro- duces good crops of grain and Jiay. It pastures about 7,500 sheep. The "Gulf Road," so calK-d, between Royalton and Montpeiier, passes through this town. This mountain pass is some miles in length, wild and picturesque. The mountains on each side of the gulf are very high, and the sides are so steep as to leave only a nariow passage for the turnpike, and a gurgling blanch of White river on the south side, and of a biancli ol' Onion river on the north. W'illiamsfowii, Mass. Berkshire co. Tliistown is situ- ated in a large and fertile valley, surrounded by romantic elevations, and watered by Iloosack and (irecn rivers. These beautiful streaui-- unite their hydraulic powers and fertilizing qualities, to render this remote valley a scene of compe- tence and peace, and a delightful retreat for the muses. Williamstovvn lies at the N. W. corner of the state, on the lines of Vermont and New York ; 135 miles W. by N. from Boston, 27 N. tiom NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Lenox, and 36 E. by N. from Al- bany, N. Y. It was incorporated in 1765. Population, 1837, 1,981. There are 1 cotton and 2 woolen mills in the town, and manufactu- res of potatoe starch, cabinet ware, chairs, palm-leaf hats, shovels, hats, leather, &c. : annual value about $75,000. The number of sheep in this flourishing a2;ricultural town, in the year 1837, was 8,000— viz: 2,000 Saxony, 5,800 Merino, and 200 common. The fleeces of these sheep weighed 23,200 lbs., and sold for $13,965. The village in this town is de- lightfully situated on a gentle rise from the river. The buildings are generally tastefully constructed and command a great variety of superb scenery. This town contains a te- pid spring, of some repute in cu- taneous diseases. Williams College, in this town, is handsomely located. It derived its name from Col. Ephraim Williams, a native of Newton, and a distinguished benefactor of Williamstown. Col. Williams was a man of talents, brave, witty, po- lite and popular. He commanded the line of forts on the west side of Connecticut river, in the French and Indian wars from 1740 to 1748. In 1755, he received the command of a regiment, and joined general Johnson. He fell at the head of 1,200 men, near lake George, on the Sthof September of that year. Col. Williams, being a bachelor, gave the most of his estate for the estab- lishment of a free grammar school at this place. The school went in- to operation in 1791, and in 1793 the legislature vested it with col- lege privileges. See Register. "Willimantic River, Ct. Also Village, see Windham. Willington, Ct. Tolland CO. This town was sold by the Connecticut colony, to Rog- er Wolcott, Esq. and others, for JC510, in the year 1720. It is about 7 miles in length, and 4^ in width. There is an abundance of granite in the town, and good iron ore. The surface is uneven and the soil hard. The AVillimantic and other streams give Willington some ex- cellent mill privileges, some of which are profitably improved. — There are about 2,500 sheep in the town. Population, in 1830, 1,305. It is 24 miles N. E. from Hartford, and bounded W. by Tolland. AVilliston, Vt. Chittenden co. This is an ex- cellent farming town of a rich soil, with an uneven surface, but not mountainous. It is very produc- tive of all the varieties common to a northern climate: its product of wool, in 1837, was 9,225 fleeces. Willistonis watered by Onion river, and some smaller streams ; but its water power is small. It is 27 miles W. N. W. from Montpelier, and is bounded on the W., by Burlington. Population, 1830, 1,608. Thomas Chitteivdeiv was the father of this town. He came here in 1774. He was a member of the convention, which, in 1777, declar- ed Vermont an independent state, and was active in procuring its ad- mission into the Union. When the Vermont Constitution was estab- lished, in 1778, Mr. Chittenden was selected as a candidate for gover- nor ; to which office he was annu- ally elected, with the exception of one year, till his death in 1797. He was 67 years of age. AVilinington, Vt. Windham co. The east and west branches of Deerfield river unite in this town, which, with the waters of Beaver and Cold brooks, and of Ray's pond, a large and beauti- ful sheet of water; a valuable mill power is produced. There are some tine tracts of lard in the town, and a considerable portion that is NEW EN^GLAXD GAZETTEER. rough and hard to till. There are a number of mills of various kinds in the town, and a pleasant and thriving village. Wilmington was settled before the revolutionary war, but increas- ed but slowly until the peace. It lies 46 miles S. S. W. from Wind- sor, 14 S. W. from Newfane, and 17 E. from Bennington. Popula- tion, 1830, 1,367. Wilminston, Mass. Middlesex co. The surface of this town is generally level, with a light and sandy soil. The wood is chiefly pine, and much charcoal is made. This kind of soil, although unfit for the generality of crops, is well adapted for the growth of hops, of which large quantities, of a fine quality, are produced in Wilmington, and which frequently afford the cultivator a large profit. During the period of 32 years, 1806 — 1837, inclusive, there were inspected at Charlestown, Mass. 76,860 bags of hops, weighing 16,467,182 lbs. The price varied from 34 to 5 cents a pound. The highest price was in 1817, the low- est, in 1819 ; average price, 13 1-5 cents. Total value, $2,169,430. The town is watered by a branch of Ipswich river : the Middlesex canal passes through it, and adds much to the beauty of its scenery. Wilmington was incorporated in 1730. It is 14 miles N. N. W.from Boston, and 10 S. E. by E. from Lowell. Population, 1837, 795. Wilmot, N. H. Merrimack co. Wilmot is 30 miles N. W. from Concord, and 87 from Boston. The streams form- ing Blackwater river have their ori- gin in the vicinity of Wilmot. — They afford a number of good mill seats. The 4th N. H. turnpike from Concord to Hanover passes through this town. It was made in 1803, through an entire forest, with- out any inhabitants for 14 miles above, and about 6 miles below Wilmot. The land near the turn- pike appears rude and barren ; but the acclivities on either side are susceptible of cultivation. The town is composed of hills and val- leys, presenting a rough surface. Tliere are no large collections of water, nor any mountains, excepting Kcarsarge, whose summit forms the southern boundary. It was incor- porated June 18, 1807. It receiv- ed its name in honor of Dr. Wilmot, an Englishman, who, at one time, was supposed to be the author of the celebrated letters of Junius. Population, 1830, 835. W^ilson, Me. This town was incorporated in 1836, as " township number 9 in the 9th range, north of the Waldo Patent in the county of Somerset." We repeat, that but very little in- formation respecting a town is gain- ed from its act of incorporation. We beg our friends " Down East" to wi'ite to us. AVilton, Me. Franklin co. This is one of the most flourishing agricultural town- ships in the state. It has a fertile soil, a beautiful surface, and two pleasant villages. It lies a little distance from Sandy river, 5 or 6 miles S. W. from Farmington, and 38 W. N. W. from Augusta. Wilton has an adequate water power for common purposes, pro- duced by streams issuing from beautiful |)onds in the town. The people are principally agricultural- ists, and tested their skill in that delightful pursuit, in 1837, by pro- ducing 11,071 bushels of good clean wheat. Wilton was incorporated in 1803. Population, in 1830, 1,140; 1837, 2,102. Wilton, N. H. Hillsborough co. This town is bounded S. by Mason, and W. by NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Temple. It is 9 miles W. by S. from Amherst ami 37 S. by W. from Concorfl. Soubegan is the principal river. Its main branch enters this town near the S. W. corner and proceeds in a N. E. course till it forms a junction with several branches running I'rom Lyndeborough and Temple. These flow thiough the N. part, and are sufficiently large for mill streams. On these streams are some valuable manufactures, and a pleasant village has sprung up within a few yeais. This town has neither mountains, ponds or swamps. It is in general of strong and excellent soil. Good clay is found in plenty near the streams. There are several quar- ries of excellent stone for splitting and hewing. The first settlement was made in 173S, by 3 families from Danvers, Mass., 2 by the name of Putnam, and 1 by the name of Dale. Hannah, the daughter of Ephraim Putnam, was the first child born in town. The town was incorporated June 25, 1762, and derived its name from Wilton, an ancient borough in Wiltshire, England. A distressing accident occurred in raising the second meeting house, September 7, 1773. The frame fell, and three men were instantly killed ; two died of their wounds soon afterward, and a num- ber of others were badly injured. On July 20, 1804, the same meet- ing house was struck by lightning and considerably shattered. Pop- ulation, 1830, 1,0.39. Wilton, Ct. Fairfield co. Wilton was taken from the north part of Norwalk, in 1802. The surface of the town is broken by two ridges of hills, but the soil is a gravelly loam and pro- ductive of grain and a great variety of fruit. Agriculture is the prin- cipal business of the inhabitants. The town is watered by Norwalk river, and has a satinet factoiy and other mechanical operations by water. A classical school, of high reputation, was established here in 1818, by Hawley Olmstead, Esq. This school is worth a million of the silver mines that were discov- ered and worked in this town dur- ing the revolutionary war. Wilton lies 34 miles W. S. W. from New Haven, and 6 N. from Norwalk. Population, 1330, 2,095. Wiiiclieudoii, Mass. Worcester co. This town was incorporated in 1764. It is 60 miles N. W. by W. fiom Boston, and 34 N. N. W. from Worcester. Pop- ulation, 1830, 1,463; 1837,1,802. The surface of the town is uneven and rocky, with a strong soil, which, when subdued, is quite productive of grain, grass and fruit trees. There are fine quarries of granite in the town ; and a spring tinctured with iron and sulphur, but which is less visited than formerly. Mil- ler's river rises in this town and Ashburnham, and afibrds conven- ient mill seats. There are 2 pleas- ant villages in the town, a cotton mill, a woolen mill, and manufac- tures of cotton and wool bobbins, leather, palm-leaf hats, chairs, cab- inet and wooden wares : annual value, exclusive of cotton goods, about $100,000. Tinder Warner, N. H., we gave an account of a frightful tornado in that and the neighboring towns in 1S21. It appears that this part of the country was visited by a simi- lar desolation, at the same time, more than 40 miles distant. A Worcester paper thus desci-ibes it : " About 6 o'clock, Sunday even- ing, September 9th, a black and terrific cloud appeared a little south of the centre of Nortli field, Frank- lin county, nearly in the form of a pyramid reversed, moving very i-ap- idly and with a terrible noise. In its progress it swept away or prostrat- ed all the trees, fences, stone walls, and buildings which came with- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. in its vortex, which in some places was not more than 20 rods and in others 40 or 50. It passed from Northtield through Warwick and Orange, to the southwesterly part of Royalston, where its force was broken by Tully Mountain. Its path was strewed for the distance of 25 miles, through the towns of Royals- ton, Winchendon, Ashhurnhain and Fitchburg, with fragments of build- ings, sheaves of grain, bundles of corn stalks, clothing, &,c. " Several persons were killed and wounded, numerous houses, barns, &.c. demolished, and many domestic animals, in the track of the tornado, were destroyed. Large trees were taken 200 feet into the air, and logs which would require 4 oxen to remove them were swept out of the bed of Tully river where they had lain for more than half a century. The ground was torn up from the river to the mountain, about 40 rods, from 1 foot to 6 feet deep. The surface of the earth was broken throughout the whole course of the whirlwind, as with the plmighshare of destruction. Stones of many hundred pounds weight, were rolled from their beds. Lots of wood were whirled into promiscuous heaps, with roots and tops, and tops and roots. The ap- pearance presented by the track of the whirlwind, indicated, as near as the writer can judge from actual in- spection, that the form of the cloud, and the body of air in motion, was that of an inverted pyramid, draw- ing whatever came within its in- lluence towards the centre of mo- tion." AViucIiester, N. II. Cheshire co. This pleasant town is bounded N. by Svvanzcy and Chesterfield, E. by Richmond, W. by Hinsdale, and S. by Massachu- setts line. It lies i:i miles S. W. from Keene, 65 S. W. from Con- cord, 80 W. from Boston, 80 N. from Hartford, Ct., and 12 E. from Brat- 41* tlebo', Vt. Population, 1837, 2,500, The face of this town is diversified with hills and valleys. The soil is of an excellent quality, furnishing in abundance, all the agricultural products natural to this section of the country. Ashuelot river pass- es through the centre of this town, affording a number of mill privi- leges, and is bordered on each bank by extensive intervales, of a fer- tility rarely excelled. There are other small streams run- ning in various directions through the town, affording facilities for wa- ter power. The centre village is on the S. E. bank of the Ashuelot, and the principal street, running parallel with its border, has a number of dwelling houses, with stores and shops, 3 meetinghouses, an elegant district school house, saw and grist mills, shops for turning wood and iron, an extensive establishment for the manufacture of musical in- struments of all kinds, and 2 organ manufactories; and, at the lower end, the street is adorned with a beautiful row of native ever-green trees, which extends nearly half a mile. Two miles west is another con- siderable village, containing 1 large woolen factory, 1 cotton factory, 1 satinet factory, saw, grist and oil mills, two furnaces, together with shops, stores, meeting houses, &c. In the S. E. part of the town there are saw mills, grist mills, clothier's works, and 1 satinet fac- tory. This town was sacked by the In- dians, and the inhabitants taken prisoners or driven off in 1745 or '6, and did not return under about 5 years to resume the settlement of the place. The former name of the town was Arlington, and it was in- corjjorated by its present name in 1753. Winchester, Ct. Litchfield co. Winchester was NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. incorporated in 1771. Population, 1830, 1,766. The geological char- acter of the town is primitive ; the rocks consisting of granite, mica .slate, &.C. The soil is gravelly, hard and coarse : it alTords good grazing, and its products of butter, cheese and wool are considerable. The Borough of Clifton was in- corporated in 1832. It is a flour- ishing village, consisting of about sixty or seventy dwelling houses, and 4 mercantile stores. The vil- lage is principally built in a nar- row valley, on the banks of a mill stream, called Mad river, which is a tributary of Farmington river. The valley at this place is but bare- ly of sufficient width to admit of a street, with buildings on each side, the ground rising immediately in every direction. Westward of the main street in the village, a road passes up a steep hill for nearly a quarter of a mile, where, upon an elevated plain, is an interesting lake or pond, which is one of the largest bodies of water in the state, being 3 1-2 miles in length and 3-4 of a mile in breadth. Tiie outlet of this lake presents a novel scene ; it consists of a small stream, com- pressed within a narrow channel, and literally tossed from rock to rock till it unites with Mad river. Most of the manufacturing estab- lishments in the village are situa- ted on this outlet, upon which there are some of the best natural sites for hydraulic works in the state. In this village are fourlarge scythe factories, one machine shop, and five forges. The ore to supply these forges is brought from Ca- naan, Kent and Salisbury. Winsted, or the East village, is very pleasant, and contains a large woolen mill, an extensive clock factory, an iron foundry, and an axe factory. This village is 26 miles N. W. from Hartford, 49 N. by W. from New Haven, and 17 N. by E. from Litchfield. Winchester lies within the " ev- ergreen district," so named from the forests of hemlock and other evergreen trees with which it abounds. These " Green Woods " present one of the most impressive scenes which can be found in an American forest. The blanches of the trees are thickly covered with a deep green foliage, closely interwoven overhead, nearly exclu- ding the light of the sun. The scene forcibly reminds the con- templative traveler of the words of Thomson, in his celebrated hymn : " Oh, talk of Him in solitary glooms ! Wtif^re, o'ertlie rock ihe scarcely waving pine Fills the brown shaiie with a religious awe." Windliain, Me. Cumberland co. Windham lies on the N. E. side of Presumpscut liver, which separates it from Gor- ham. It is 76 miles S. W. from Augusta, and 14 N. N. W. from Portland. This is a valuable farm- ing town, and the inhabitants are principally employed in agricul- ture. Branches of the Presump- scut give the town good mill priv- ileges. There are 2 pleasant vil- lages in the town, some manufac- tures, and several beautiful fish ponds. Population, 1837, 2,207. AVindliani, N. H. Rockingham co. This town is 34 miles S. by E. from Concord, and 45 W. S. W. from Portsmouth. Policy pond lies in this town and Salem, about one half in each. Cabot's pond lies E. of tlie centre of the town. Golden pond is in the south, and Mitchel's in the northeast part of the town. Bea- ver river or brook forms the W. boundary, upon which are some meadow lands. The town is also well supplied with small streams. Windham was originally a part of Londonderry ; and was detached and incorporated in 1739. The in- habitants, principally derived from the first settlers of Londonderry, have firmly adhered to the religious NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. principles of their fathers, to the doctrines and forms of the presby- terian clmrch as orisiinaliy estab- lished in Scotland, and administer- ed in this country. Population, 1S30, 998. Wiudliam Coituty, A't. JVetrfane is the shire town. — This county is bounded N. by Wind- sor county; E. by Connecticut riv- er ; S. by the state of Massachu- setts, and W. by the county of Ben- nington. It contains an area of about 7S0 square miles. Popula- tion, 1810, 26,7G0; 1820, 28,457; 1S30, 28,743. Incorporated, 1789. For some years it bore the name of Cumberland. Population to a square mile, 37. The surface of the county is much broken by hills and valleys: the western part is very elevated, and contains a part of the Green Mountain range. The geological character of the county is primi- tive. Immense quantities of gran- ite are found in all parts of the county, both in quarries and bould- ers, most of which is of fine grain and very handsome. It also con- tains gneiss, hornblende, serpen- tine, primitive limestone, and mi- ca, talcose, chlorite, and argellite slates. The soil of the county is various ; from the rich and alluvial meadows on the Connecticut, to the cold and rugged lands on the sides of the mountains. The general character of the soil may be considereii as tolerable for grain and excellent for grazing. In 1837, there were 7(>,582 sheep in the county. Some of the wool is of a fine quality, but generally it is about half blood. Windham county is finely wa- tered by Williams', Saxton's, and West rivers, with their branches, and by numerous other streams. These waters give the county a great hydraulic power, which is rapidly coming into use for man- ufacturing purposes. WindJiam, Vt. Windham CO. Branches of West, Williams' and Saxton's rivers give this town a good water power. The surface of the town is elevated; the soil, though strong, is better adapted for grazing than tillage. About 4,000 sheep are kept here. Windham was formerly a part of Londonderry. It is 30 miles N. E. from Bennington, and 25 S. W. from Windsor. Population, 1830, 847. The actynolite embedded in talc, is found in this town, in slender four sided prisms of a leak green color. The crj"stals vary in size ; some are six inches in length and an inch in breadth. These crys- tals are abundant. Chlorite, gar- nets, serpentine, and steatite arc also found. Wiudliani County, Ct. Brooklyn is the county town. This county is uniformly hilly, yet no part of it is mountainous or very elevated. The prevailing soil is a primitive gravelly loam. The greatest portion of the county is stony and considerably rough, and the lands generally best adapted for grazing, and many sections afford some of the richest dairy farms in the state. The Quinnebaug and Shctucket, with their branches, intersect this county, and afford many valuable water privileges for mills and manufacturing purposes. The valley of the Quinnebaug riv- er comprises the best land in the county. The inhabitants of this coun(y are more extensively enga- ged in the manufacturing business than in any other county in the state. Cotton and woolen goods are the principal articles manufac- tured. Windham county originally be- longed to the counties of Hartford and New London. It was incorpo- rated as a county in May, 1726". This county is bounded N. by NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Massachusetts; E. by Rhode Isl- and; S. by the county of New London, and W. by Tolland county. It contains an area of about 620 square miles. Population, ISIO, 28,611; 1820,31,634; 1830,27,077. Population to a square mile, 44. In 1837, there were 26,017 sheep in Windham county. 'Windham, Ct. Windham co. The territory of this town, Mansfield and Canter- bury, was given by Joshua, a son of Uncas, the celebrated Mohegan sachem, to John Mason, James Fitch and others, in the year 1673. " Lieut. John Cates, a pious pu- ritan, who served in the wars in England, holding his commission under Cromwell, when Charles II. came to the throne, tied to this country for safety. He landed first in Virginia, where he procui-ed a negro servant to attend him. But when advertisemenls and pursuers were spread through this country, to apprehend the adherents of the Pro- tector, he left Virginia, came to New York, and froiii thence to Nor- wich. Still feeling that he should be securer in a more retired place, he came to this new plantation, dug the first cellar, and with his servant, raised in Windham the first Eng- lish habitation, in the spring of 1689. The settlers, rapidly increas- ing, petitioned the general court, and obtained a grant of town privi- leges in May, 1692. It was made a county town in May, 1726." Windham is bounded N. by the towns of Hampton, Chaplin and Mansfield ; E. by Franklin and Lisbon, and W. by Lebanon and Columbia. It contains an area of about 8 by 6 miles. It has an uneven surface, with a tolerable soil. The following is a copy of the inscription on Lieutenant Cates' monument, in the village burying ground. In memory of Mr. John Cates. He was a gentleman born in England, and the first setteller in the Town of Windham. By his last Will and Testament, he gave a generous Legacy to ye first Church of Christ in W^indhani, in plate, and a generous Legacy in Land for ye support of ye Poor, and another Legacy for ye support of ye School in said town for ever. He died in Windham. Julvye Kith, .\. D. 1697.' Since the removal of the county courts from this place to Brooklyn, and the establishment of the vil- lage of Willimantic, the ancient village of Windham has somewhat declined in its trade and population. It is pleasantly located, compactly and neatly built, and contains the charm of antiquity, in as great per- fection as can probably be found in New England. This village is 30 miles E. from Hartford, 14 N. by W. from Norwich, 44 \V. S. W. from Providence, R. I., and 12 S. W. from Brooklyn. Population of the town, 1820,2,439; 1830,2,812. The Borough of Willimantic is 3 miles W. from Windham vil- lage. It is well situated on Willi- mantic river: it is built principally on one street, and contains some very handsome buildings. In this village are six cotton mills, con- taining 13,000 spindles ; a paper mill and a satinet factory. This flourishing village has grown up in the course of a few years. The population of this borough, in 1837, was 2,000. Willimmitic River rises in the county of Tolland, and with th« NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Natchaug, forms the Shetuckct in Windham. " Much pleasantry," says Mr. Barber, " has been indulged at the expense of the inhabitants of Wind- ham, on account of a singular oc- currence which happened in the year 1758, by wiiicli the inhabit- ants were very much frightened. There is probably some exaggera- tion in the account, though the foundation of the story is believed to be a matter of fact." We copy it as an amusing relic. " On a dark, cloudy, dismal night in the month of July, A. D. 1758, the inhabitants of Windham, a small town in the eastern part of Con- necticut, had retired to rest, and for several hours, all were wrapped in profound repose — when sudden- ly, soon after midnight, the slum- bers of the peaceful inhabitants were disturbed by a most terrific noise in the sky right over their heads, which to many, seemed the yells and screeches of infuriated Indians, and others had no other way of accounting for the awful sounds, which still kept increasing, but by supposing the day of judg- ment had certainly come ; and to their terrified imaginaiions, the aw- ful uproar in the air seemed the immediate precursor of the clangor of the last trumpet. At intervals, many supposed they could distin- guish the calling out of paticu- lar names, as of Colonels Dyer and Elderkix, two eminent law- yers, and this increased the general terror. But soon there was a rush from every house, the tumult in the air still increasing^old and young, male and female, poured forth into the streets, " in puris naturalibus," entirely forgetful, in their hurry and consternation, of their nether habiliments, and with eyes upturned tried to pierce the almost palpable darkness. Some daring " spirits,'" concluding there was nothing supernatural in the hubbub and uproar over head, but rather, that they heard the yells of Indians commencing a midnight attack, loaded their guns and sal- lied forth to meet the invading foes. These valiant heroes, on ascending the hill that bounds the village on the east, perceived that the sounds came fiom that quarter, and not from the skies, as first be- lieved, but their courage would not permit them to proceed to the dar- ing extremity of advancing east- ward, until they had discovered the real cause of alarm and distress, which pervaded the whole village. Towards morning the sounds in the air seemed to die away. In the morning, the whole cause of alarm, which produced such distressing apprehensions among the good peo- ple of the town, was apparent to all who took the trouble to go to a certain mill pond, situated about three fourths of a mile eastward of the village. This pond, hereafter, in the annals of Fame, forever to be called the Frog Pond, in conse- quence of a severe drought, which had prevailed many weeks, had be- come nearly dry, and the Bull Frogs (by whicli it was densely popu- lated) at the mill fought a pitched battle on the sides of the ditch which ran through it, for the pos- session and enjoyment of the fluid which remained. Long and ob- stinately was the contest maintain- ed ; and many thousands of the combatants were found defunct, on both sides of the ditch, the next morning. It had been uncommon- ly still, for several hours before the battle commenced, but suddenly, as if by a preconcerted agreement, every frog on one side of the ditch, raised the war cry. Col. Dyer, Col. Dyer, and at the same instai>t, from the opposite side, resounded the adverse shout of Eldcrkin too. El- dcrkin too. Owing to some pecu- liar state of the atmosphere, the awful noises and cries appeared to the distressed Windhamites to be directly over their heads." NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Windsor, Me. Kennebec co. Windsor was in- corporated by the name of Malta, in 1809. In 1821 it took the name of Gerry, and in 1822 it received its present name. It lies 12 miles from Augusta, by which it is bound- ed on the west. Population, 1837, 1,660. Wheat crop, same year, 5,947 bushels. This town is watered by the up- per branches of Sheepscot river, and by several handsome ponds. The surface of the town is diversi- fied : the soil is generally good, and ts agricultural condition improv- ng. There are some manufactures n the town. "Windsor, N. H. Hillsborough co. This town con- tains only 5,335 acres. It is diver- sified with hills: its soil is strong, good for grazing, and for bread stutTs, of which quantities sufficient for use at home, and some for the markets are raised. Black pond, near the centre, is said to be 160 rods long and 80 broad ; and one near the S. E. corner of the town, is about 80 rods long and 40 wide. Windsor was formerly called CampbelV s Gore. It was incorpo- rated with town privileges in 1798. Population, 1830, 226. ■Windsor County, Vt, Woodstock is the county town. This county is bounded N. by the county of Orange, E. by Connecti- cut river, S. by Windham county, and W. by Rutland and a part of Addison counties. It contains an area of about 900 square miles. Population, 1810, 34,877 ; 1820, 38,233; 1830, 40,625: population to a square mile, 48. Incorporated in 1781. Windsor county is watered by White, Queechy, Black, West and Williams' rivers, and by other ex- cellent mill streams. The surface of the county is uneven, and in some parts mountainous, but gen- erally, it is not too elevated to ad- mit of cultivation. The soil pro- duces fine crops of grain, hay, veg- etables and fruits : the lands are peculiarly adapted for grazing, and about 200,000 sheep graze on its varied surface of hills and valleys. The beautiful Connecticut, which washes its whole eastern boundary, gives to this county large tracts of alluvial meadow land, and affords it a navigable channel to the sea board, for its sui'plus productions, and for its wants from abroad. The hydraulic power of Windsor county is vei'y large, and its local position is such as to induce men of enterprize and capital to embark in manufacturing operations, which are annually increasing with fair prospects of success. "W^indsor, "Vt. Windsor co. Windsor was first settled in 1764. Its surface is un- even, but there are but few parts of it unfit for cultivation. It con- tains large tracts of alluvial mead- ow, and the uplands are generally fertile. Mill brook waters the south part of the town, and fur- nishes it with excellent mill sites. The manufactures of the town are numerous and valuable. The ag- ricultural interests are also valu- able : 10,000 sheep are annually sheared in the town, and many neat cattle, horses and productions of the dairy are annually transpor- ted to its various markets. Tiiis town has become the cen- tre of an important commerce, both from the river and a fertile interior country. The favorable position of Windsor, as a place of trade, was early discovered, and it has been fortunate in possessing a suc- cession of men, who, by their en- terprise and wealth, have rendered it one of tlie most flourishing towns on Connecticut river. Windsor is situated on the west side of that delightful river, 55 NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER, miles S. by E. from Montpelier, 105 N. W. from Boston, 55 N. E. from Bennington, 95 S. S. W. from Burlington, and 127 miles above Hartford, Ct. Population, in 1820, 2,956 ; 1830, 3,134. The village of Windsor is on el- evated ground, on the bank of the river: it is compactly, and some- what irregularly built, but very beautiful. There are but few vil- lages in our country which make a more delightful appearance. It contains a great number of hand- some dwelling houses and stores. Some of the private houses, church- es and other public buildings are in a style of superior elegance. This is the site of the Vermont State prison. The streets are wide and beautifully shaded. The scenery around Windsor is highly pictur- esque; from the high lands across the river, in Cornish, which is uni- ted to Windsor by a bridge, or on the Ascutney at the south part of the town, some of the best land- scapes in our country are presen- ted to view. Windsor, >Iass. Berkshire co. This town is situa- ted on the ridge of high lands which divides the waters of the Hous- atonick and Connecticut. Branch- es of the Housatonick and West- field rivers rise here. There are some good fish ponds in the town, but no important streams. The .surface of the town is much brok- en, but the soil is warm and finelj- adapted for grazing. Thn-e arc some excellent farmers in Windsor, and the productions of the dairy and of cattle are considerable. In 1837) there were 7,157 sheep in the town, principally of the Saxo- ny and Merino breeds. Their woo! weighed 21,387 lbs., and sold for $10,521. This town is remarka- ble for the longevity of its inhab- itants ; which is doubtless owing to the purity of its air and water. Windsor contains beds of serpen- tine and soapstone. It is 117 miles W. by N. from Boston, 18 N. N.E. from Lenox, and 12 E. N. E. from Pittsfield. Incorporated in 1771. Population, 1837, 887. Windsor, Ct. Hartford co. This most ancient town in Connecticut is situated on the west .side of Connecticut river, 6 miles N. from Hartford. Popu- lation, 1830, 3,220. The surface of the town is generally level, hav- ing some extensive plains. The soil is various, and free from stone : some of it is light, but a large pro- portion of it is fertile, containing extensive tracts of rich meadow. Farmington river passes through the town, and meeting the Con- necticut, gives the town a good hy- draulic power. There are in Windsor 4 paper mills, 2 manufactories of cotton batting, and factories of satinet, Kentucky jean, wire, &c. The business in these manufacturing establishments is very considerable. At a place called Pine Meadow, at the commencement of the locks on the Enfield canal, a variety of ship and other timber is prepared for market. Pine Meadow is opposite to Warehouse Point, in East Wind- sor. The centre village in Windsor is pleasantly extended on the banks of the Connecticut : it is well built, well shaded, and commands de- lightful prospects. Poquonnuck village is a few miles N. from the centre. It is a manufacturing village, delightfully situated at the head of navigation on Farmington river. " In 1631, Wahquimacut, an Indi- an sachem, living near Connecticut river, made a journey to Plymouth and Boston, and earnestly entreat- ed the governors of each of the colonies to send men to make set- tlements on the river. He repre- sented the fruitfulness of the coun- try, and promised the English, that NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. if they would make a settlement, he would annually supply them with corn, and give them eighty beaver skins. " The governor of Massachusetts, although lie treated the sachem and liis company with generosity, paid no attention to his proposals. Mr. Winslow, the governor of Plymouth, judged it worthy of at- tention. It seems that soon after that, he went into Connecticut, and discovered the river and the adja- cent parts. It appeared that the earnestness withwliich the sachem solicited the English to make set- tlements on the river, originated from the distressed state of the riv- er Indians. Pekoath, the great sa- chem of the Pequots, was at war with them and driving them from the country, and they imagined that if the English made settle- ments on the river, they would as- sist them in defending themselves against their too powerful enemies. "Governor Winslow of Plymouth, being pleased with the appearance of the country, having visited it, the Plymouth people made prepar- ations for erecting a trading house, and establishing a small company upon the river. In 1633, William Holmes, with his associates, having prepared the frame of a house, with boards and materials for covering it immediately, put them on board of a vessel and sailed for Connecticut. Holmes landed and erected his house a little below the mouth of Farmington river, in Windsor. The house was covered with the utmost dispatch, and fortified with palisa- does. The Plymouth people pur- chased of the Indians the land on which they erected their house. This, governor Wolcott says, was the first house erected in Connecti- cut. " In June, 1634, the Dutch sent Jacob Van Curter to purchase lands on the Connecticut. He made a purchase of about twenty acres at Hartford, of Nepuquash, a Pequot captain, on the 25th of October. Curter protested against Holmes, the builder of the Plymouth house. Some time afterwards, the Dutch governor. Van Twiller, of Fort Amsterdam, sent a reinforcement to Connecticut, in order to drive Holmes from the river. A party of seventy men under arms, with banners displayed, assaulted the Plymouth house, but they found it so well fortified, and the men who kept it so vigilant and determined, that it could not be taken withoiit bloodshed. They therefore came to a ])arley, and finally returned in peace. " A number of Mr. Wareham's people came, in the summer of 1635, to Connecticut, and made prepara- tions to bring their families and make a permanent settlement. Af- ter having made such preparations as they judged necessary, they be- gan to remove their families and property. On the loth of October, about sixty men, women and chil- dren, with their hoi-ses, cattle and swine, commenced their journey fi'om Massachusetts, through the wilderness, to Connecticut river. After a tedious and difficultjourney, through swamps and rivers, over mountains and rough grounds, which were passed with great difficulty and fatigue, they arrived safely at the places of their respective des- tination. They were so long on their journey, and so much time and pains were spent in passing the river, and in getting over their cattle, that after all their exertions, winter came upon them before they were prepared. " About the beginning of Decem- ber, provisions generally failed in the settlements on the river, and famine and death looked the in- habitants in the face. In their dis- tress, some of them in this severe season attempted to go through the wilderness to the nearest settlement in Massachusetts. A company of thirteen, who made the attempt. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. lost one of their number, who, in passing a river, fell through the ice and was drowned. The other twelve were ten days on tlieir jour- ney, and had tlioy not received as- sistance from the Indians, would all have perished. Such w-as the general distress by the 3d and 4th of December, tliat a considerable part of the settlers were obliged to leave their habitations. Seventy persons, men, women and children, were obliged, in the severity of winter, to go down to the mouth of the river to meet their provisions, as the only expedient to preserve their lives. Not meeting the vessels which they expected, they all went on board of the Rebecca, a vessel of about 60 tons. This vessel, two days before, was frozen in, twenty miles up the river ; but by the fall- ing of a small rain, and the influ- citce of the tide, the ice became so broken, that she made a shift to get out. She however lan upon tlie bar, and the people were forced to unlade her to get her off. She was reladcd, and in five days reached Boston. Had it not been for these providential circumstances, the peo- ple must have perished from fam- ine. " The people who remained and kept their stations on the river, suf- fered in an extreme degree. After all the help they were able to ob- tain, by hunting and from the In- dians, they were obliged to subsist on acorns, malt and grains. The cattle, which could not be got over the river before winter, lived by browsing in the woods and mead- ows. They wintered as well, or better, than tho>;e that were brought over, and for which all the provis- ion was made, and care taken, of which the settlers were capable. A great number of the cattle, how- ever, perished. The Dorcbosler or Windsor people lost, in this spe- cies of property, about two hun- dred pounds sterling. Upon the breaking up of winter, and during 42 the summer following, the settlers came in large companies, and the settlements at Windsor, Hartford and W'etherslield were firmly es- tablished." The first of the four following epitaphs is supposed to be the most ancient monumental inscription in the state. Heere lyeth Ephraim Hvit, ' sometimes Teacher to ye chvrch of Windsor, who died September 4-th, 1G44. W'tio when bpe lived uee drew ovr vitall breath, \\'ho when hw d ed hi^ dyin; was ovr death, Who was ye slay of sale, ye chviches staff, Alas, the times i'orbiJ an ej'ilaph. Here vnder lyeth the body of Henry Wolcot, sometimes a Maiestratc of this Ivrisdiction, who died ye 30th day of May, Anno Salvtis 1055, yEtatis 77. Here lyeth the body of the Hon. Ko^xer Wolcott, Esq. of VVindsor, who for several years was (iovernor of the Colony of Connecticut, died May 17th, Anno Salutis 1767, .^tatis 89. Earth's highest station ends in " Here he lies ;" And " dust to dust" coixludes her noblest song. To the memory of Oliver Ellsworth, LL. D., an assistant in tlie Council, and a judge of tlie Superior Court of the State of (.'onnecticiit. A member of the ('onveiition which formed, and of the State Convention of Connecticut, which adopted the Constitution of the IJ. States, — Senator and C'hief Justice of the U. States ; one of the F^nvoys extraordinary and Minister Plenipo- tentiary, who made the convention of 1800 between the U. Slates and the I'rench Republic. Amiable and exem- plary in all the relations of the domes- tic, social and christian character. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. Pre-eminently useful in all the offices he sustained, whose great talents un- der the guidance of inflexible integrity, consummate wisdom, and enlightened zeal, placed him among the first of the illustrious statesmen who achieved and established the independence of the American Republic. Born at Windsor April 2yth, 174.5, and died Nov. 2G, 1807. The ancientboundaries of Wind- "sor extended 46 miles in circuni- ference, lying on both sides of the river. Within these limits there were ten distinct Indian tribes or sovereignties. In the year 1670 there was a large Indian fortress at Windsor, and nineteen natives to one Englishman : but another race has arisen : — "The chiefs of other days are de- parted. They have gone without their fame. The people are like the waves of the ocean : Like the leaves of woody Morven, They pass away in the rustling blast. And other leaves lift their green heads on high." ■Winhall, Vt. Bennington co. Winhall is bounded on the W. by Manches- ter, and is 33 miles S. W. from Windsor. This town was charter- ed in 1761, and its settlement com- menced during the revolutionary war. Population, 1830, 571. The surface is rough, and the soil not very productive. Winhall River rises in this town and affords it a good water power. It passes tiirough a part of Jamaica, and joins West river in Londonder- ry- Wimiepisiogce Lake, IV. H. This lake possesses singular charms. However romantic and beautiful Lake George, the charm- er of all travelers, appears in its elevation, the purity of its waters, its depth, its rapid outlet, its 365 islands which bespangle its bosom, its mountain scenery, its fish, its mineralogy ; still in all, but its his- toric fame, it has a rival at the east, in the Winnepisiogee of New Hampshire. There are more than forty differ- ent ways of spelling the name of this lake. It was formerly written as though it had six syllables; but the pronunciation which has gener- ally obtained with those best ac- quainted with the region of the lake, and the Indian pronunciation of the name, was IViii-ne-pe- sock-e. The following authorities show this : Wiiinapusseakit : Sherman and Ince's Report, 1652. TVinnipesocket : Bartlett's Narra- tive, 1708. Winnipissocay: Penhallow's Wars, 1726. Winaposawgue : Canterbury char- ter, 1727. Winnepissocay : Petition, 1733. Winnipeshoky : Petition, 1744. Winnepesocktt : Stevens' Journal, 174G. Winepesocky : Surveyor Clement, 1746. TVinipiseoce : Theodore Atkinson, 1746. Winncpesacket : Governor Shir- ley, 1747. , ,' JViiiipesockee : Bryant's Journal," 1747. Winnapessocket : Map of New Hampshire, 1750. Winipisoky : Hon. George Boyd, 1785. Winnepisiogee : The present mode of spelling;, pronounced Wini- pisoky, or Win-ne-pe-sock-e. This lake is situated in the coun- ty of Strafford. Its form is very irregular. At the west end it is divided into three large bays; on the north is a fourth; and at the east end there are three others. Its general course is from N. W. to S. E. ; its length is about 22 miles, and it varies in width from one to ten miles. This lake is en- vironed by the pleasant towns of Moultonborough, Tuftonborough, NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. WolfeboroughjCentre Harbor, Mer- edith, Gilford, Gilmanton, and Al- ton. The waters of the Winnepisiogec are remarkably pure, and its depth in some places is said to be unfath- omable. Its sources are principally from springs within its bosom. Its outlet is the rapid river of its own name. Its height above the level of the sea is 472 feet. It is stored with a great variety of excellent lish : in the summer season, steam boats, sloops and smaller vessels ply on its waters, and in the win- ter season it presents an icy ex- pansion of great usefulness and beauty. Like Casco bay and Lake George, this lake is said to contain 3C5 islands. Without supposing the days of the year to have been con- sulted on the subject, the number is very great ; several of which comprise farms of from 200 to 500 acres. The beauties of this lake were tlius described, by the celebrated Dr. Dwight, many years ago. " The prospect of this lake, and its enviions, is enchanting; and its beauties are seen with great advan- tage from a delightful elevation a little distance from the road towards Plymouth. The day was remarka- bly line. Not a breath disturbed the leaves, or ruffled the surface of the waters. The sky was se- rene and beautiful. The sun shone with a soft and elegant lustre ; .such as seems peculiar to that de- lightful weather, which from the 20th of September to the 20th of October, so often elicits from the mouths of mankind the epithet of charming. Mildness tempered the heat; and serenity hushed the world into universal quiet. The "Winnepisiogec was an immense field of glass ; silvered by the lus- tre which floated on its surface. Its borders, now in full view, now dimly retiring from the eye, were formed by those flowing lines, those masterly sweeps of nature, from which art lias clerived all its apprehensions of ease and grace ; alternated at the same time by the intrusion of points, by turns roug.h and bold, or marked with the high- est elegance of figure. In the centre a noble channel spread twenty-two miles before the eye, uninterrupted even by a bush or a rock. On i)oth sides of this avenue a train of islands arranged them- selves, as if to adorn it with the finish, which could be given only by their glowing verdure, and graceful forms. " Nor is this lake less distinguish- ed by its suite of hills, and moun- tains. On the northwest ascends a remarkably beautiful eminence, called the Red Mountain ; limited every where by circular lines, and in the proper sense elegant in its figure beyond any other mountain, among the multitude, which I have examined. On the south ascends Mount Major; a ridge, of a bolder aspect, and loftier height. At a still greater distance in the south- east rises another mountain, more obscure and misty ; presenting its loftiest summit, of an exactly semi- circular form, directly at the foot of the channel above mentioned, and terminating the watery vista between the islands, by which it is bordered, in a magnificent manner. On the northeast the great Ossipee raises its long chain of summits with a bold sublimity, and proudly looks down on all the surrounding region. " As we did not cross the Winne- pisiogec, I am unable to determine in what manner an excursion on its waters might be compared with that which I made on Lake George. That the internal and successive beauties of the Winnepisiogec strongly resemble, and nearly ap- proach those of Lake George, I can- not entertain a doubt. That they exceed them seems scarcely credi- ble. But the prospect from the hill NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. at the head of Centre Harbor is much superior to that from Foi-t George ; a fact of which hardly any thing could have convinced me, except the testimony of my own eyes. The Winnepisiogee presents a field of at least twice the extent. The islands in view are more numerous ; of finer forms, and more happily arranged. The shores are not inferior. The ex- pansion is far more magnificent; and the grandeur of the mountains, particularly of the Great Ossipee, can scarcely be rivalled. It can- not be remarked without some sui'- prise, that Lake George is annually visited by people from the coast of New England ; and that the Win- nepisiogee, notwithstanding all its accumulation of splendor and ele- gance, is almost as much unknown to the inhabitants of this country, as if it lay on the eastern side of the Caspian." ■Winnepisiogee River, N. K., Is the great outlet to the lake of that name; and iss'ies from the southwest arm of the lake. It thence passes through two bays between Meredith and Gilford, en- tering the Great Bay in the north- east part of Sanbointon. From thence it passes through two other bays,foriningthe boundary between Sanbornton on the northwest, and Gilmanton and Northfield on the .southeast; and unites with the Pemigewasset a short distance be- low Webster's falls. The streaui is rapid in its course, and has a fall of 232 feet from the lake to its junction with the other branch of tlie Merrimack : this name being given to the coni^uent stream. — There are numerous bridges over the Winnepisiogee ; which also furnishes many excellent privileges for factories or other machinery. See Merrimack River. Winnictit River, N. K., Or the Winniconett , a tributary of the Piscataqua, rises in a swamp between Hampton and N. Hamp- ton, and passes north into the Great Bay at Greenland. "Winooski City, Vt. See Burlington. 'Winslo'w, Me. Kennebec co. This is a beauti- ful town, opposite to Waterville : it is watered by Kennebec and Sebas- ticook rivers, by several ponds, and by a tine stream, a branch of the Sebasticook. Its water power is constant and abundant. The soil of the town is fertile ; the surface is diversified, and rendered pro- ductive by industrious and indepen- dent farmers. Winslow is 18 miles N. by E. from Augusta. It was incorporated in 1771. Population, in 1837, 1,557. Wheat crop, same year, 6,910 bushels. Wintlirop, Me. Kennebec CO. This town is fine- ly situated, having a fertile soil, an undulating surface, and comprising six beautiful sheets of w. ter ; the Cobhessecontee and some of its trib- utaries. The largestof these lakes or ponds is ten miles in length, and fi'om one to three miles in width. These waters give to Winthrop a valuable v/ater power, and which is partly improved by a large cotton mill, a fiour mill, carding and cloth dressing establishments, saw mills, &c. There are also in the town extensive manufactures of leather, boots and shoes. The principal village is delight- fully located, in tlie form of a cres- cent, at the union of the North lake, extending into Readfield, about six miles, with the South lake extending into Monmouth, about the same distance. This village is 10 miles W. from Augusta. The East village likewise is pleasantly situated at the northern extremity of the lai-ge lake, and is about 6 miles from Augusta. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. These villages are neatly built, and are flourishing places of busi- ness. The lakes add much to the beauty of the town. The descent of their banks is gently sloping, with a dispersion of acclivities, which serve to heighten the beauty of the scenery : their waters are deep, clear, and are stocked with an abundance of trout, pickerel, perch, and other fish. There is in this town an elevated tract of land containing an inex- haastible quantity of iron ore, or the material from which copperas is manufactured. Large quantities of copperas were made here during the late war, and it is thought that thi? ore might be advantageously used in times of peace. Winthrop is an excellent farming (own, and the moral character of its inhabitants is said to be uncom- monly good. It was incorporated in 1771. Population, 1837, 2,00.3. Wheat crop, same year, .'5,194 bush- els. ■\Viscasset, Me. Lincoln co. Shire town. Wis- casset is a port of entry, situated on the west side of Sheepscot riv- er, 20 miles from the sea; 24 miles S. S. E. from Augusta, 42 N. E. from Portland, and 10 N. E. from Bath. It was incorporated in 1760. Population, 1S37, 2,24(3. Wiscassct contains a noble har- bor for vessels of the largest class : it is easy of access and seldom ob- structed by ice. For many years previous to the commencement of the commercial rcstiictions,in 1S07, Wiscasset was one of the most ac- tive and flourishing sea ports in Maine. During the disastrous pe- riod which followed, Wiscasset suf- fered severely, in common with all towns largely engaged in naviga- tion. Since the termination of the war the town has been slowly but safely progressing in w'ealth and ])rosperi- ty. In addition to its commerce in 42* lumber and ship building, this place is largely and profitably en- gaged in the fishery, for which pur- suit it is admirably located. The tonnage of this district in 1837, was 11,()(>2 tons. The village of Wiscasset is de- lightfully situated on rising ground, in view of the harbor. The court house, churches, stores, and dwell- ing houses are built with taste, and many of them with elegance. A more beautiful village is rarely seen. AVobui-ii, Mass. Middlesex co. This town is sit- uated 10 miles N. W. by N. from Boston, 12 E. by N. from Concord, and 14 W. from Salem. It was incorporated in 1642, and first set- tled in 1G40. Population, 1830, 1,977; 1S37, 2,643. Tiiere are some elevations in Wo- burn which give the surface a vari- egated and pleasing aspect. There is considerable wood land in the town, and some pine plain land; but the soil is generally strong, fertile and well improved. It con- tains some beautiful farms. The manufactures of the town consist of leather, boots, shoes, In- dia rubber, chairs, door sashes, blinds, tin, cabinet and wooden wares : total value, the year end- ing April, 1, 1837, .$421,042. Horn Pond in this town is a de- lightful sheet of water, surrounded by evergeens, and is so remarkable for its rural beauties as to attract many visitors from a distance. This pond serves as a passage for the Middlesex canal; it also furnishes the town with a water power of some value. The waters of this and several smaller ponds in Wo- burn fall into Mystic river, through Mystic pond in Medford. W'olcott, Vt. Lamoille co. Wolcott is well watered by Lamoille river, and by Green and Wild Branch, itsbranch» NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER, es. " Fish Pond," in Wolcott, is a pretty piece of water, and bears an appropriate name. There is some good grain land in the town, but most of the lands are tit only for pasturage. There arc some mills in the town, and about 1,500 sheep. Wolcott was chartered in 1781. It is 22 miles N. from JVIontpelier, and 7 S. E. from Hyde Park. Pop- ulation, 18.30, 492. Wolcott, Ct. New Haven co. This is a small town, watered by a branch of Nau- gatuck river ; 22 miles N. from New Haven. Population, 1830, 843. The town was incorporated in 1796. The territory was former- ly a parish in the towns of Far- niington and Watcrbury ; and from that circumstance was called " Far- mingbury." The lands in Wol- cott are elevated, rough, stony, and hard to cultivate. One of the highest hills in this part of the state lies in this town : it commands a very extended prospect of I^ong Island Sound and the adjacent country. Wolcottville, Ct. See Torrington. Wolfcboroiigli, IS. H. Strafford co. This town is 45 miles N. N. W. from Portsmouth, and 45 N. E. from Concord. It is bounded S. E. by Brooklield and New Durham, S. W. by Winne- pisiogee lake and Alton, N. E. by Ossipee, and N. W. by Tuftonbo- rough. The soil is rocky, but produc- tive, and the face of tlie country level. The wood is principally oak and other hard timber. The only river is Smith's, so called from a hunter of that name : it issues from a large pond of the same name in the S. E. part of the town, and discharges its waters into the lake. There are four other ponds of con- siderable magnitude, called Crook- ed, Rust's, Barton's, and Sargent's ponds. There is a bridge over Smith's river about 60 feet long, near its entrance into the lake. Near this bridge is a pleasant vil- lage. The charter of W^olfeborough was granted in 1770, to Gov. John Wentworth, Mark H. Wentworth and others. Gov. Wentworth, dis- tinguished for his enterprise and taste, and a fondness for agricultural improvements, erected a splendid mansion about 5 miles east of the bridge, and made it his summer residence. At the foot of a hill, near one of the ponds in this town, is a miner- al spring, the waters of which are of a quality similar to those of Sara- toga, but not so strongly impregna- ted. Population, 1830, 1,928. ■Wonasqiiatucket River, R. I. Pi-ovidence co. This river rises in Smithfield, and after passing nearly through that town, it runs between North Providence and Johnston, and forms the head of Providence river. This stream is celebrated for its hydraulic power and the numerous manufacturing establishments erected on its banks. Woodljridge, Ct. New Haven co. The territory of this town belonged to the towns of New Haven and Milford, and was called tlie parish of " Amity," from 1739, until its incorporation in 1784. West river runs on the west side of West Rock, a range of moun- tains on the eastern border of the town. The surface of the town is hilly, but the soil is excellent for grazing, and much butter and cheese is annually taken to the New Haven market, from which it lies 6 miles S. W, Population, in 1830, 844. The regicides, Goffe and Whal- ley, had a number of places of con- cealment in the limits of Wood- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. bridge, the most noted of which is Hatchet Harbor ov the Lodge, near a beautiful spring, in a valley, about 7 miles from New Haven. Woodbury, Vt. Washington co. Woodbury is watered by branches of Onion and l.amoilie rivers, and contains a greater number of ponds than any other town in the state. These ponds afford a great variety of fish. Woodbury lies 15 miles N. by E. from Montpelier. Population, 1800, 23; 1820, 432; 1830, 824. ■\Voodbury, Ct. Litchfield co. The settlement of this town commenced in the year 1672 : in 1674, it was incorpo- rated. This is a good grazing township ; the soil is generally warm and fer- tile. Between four and five thou- sand sheep are annually sheared in Woodbury. The village is situated in a pleas- ant valley, and watered by a num- ber of small streams, which form the Pomperaug. It is surrounded by high hills on every side, forming a kind of amphitheatre, which ren- ders it strikingly romantic. The village contains some handsome buildings, three satinet, one tin and two nail factories. This place lies 25 miles N. W. from New Haven, 36 W. S. W. from Hartford, and 15 S. from Litchfield. Population, in 1830, 2,049. Bethel Rock, near the village of Woodbury, is about forty feet in lieight, and projects over 3 or 4 li^et, forming a kind of shelter from the' wind and rain. There is a fine grov'e near it. This spot is fre- quent 'y visited : it excites solemn and pk^asing impressions. Woodford, Vt. Bennini^'ton co. This mountain town is 7"riii'es E. from Benning- ton, on the r oa. from Augusta, and 7 W. from W'.scasset. It was incorporated in 175 9. Pop- ulation, 1837, 1,433. Woolwich has several ponds and srr.all streams, and its navigable pr'^vileges are valuable. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEEH. Woousocket Falls, R. I. See Smithjield. W^orcester, Vt. Washington co. This town is situated 10 miles N. from Montpc- lier and 30 E. by S t'roiu Burling- ton. First settled, 1797. Popula- tion, 1820, 44, and in 1830, 432. A branch of Onion river gives the town a good water power, and which is used for various purposes. Much of this township is moun- tainous ; but there is some good land along the stream, and the high- lands aflbrd pasturage for cattle. 'W'orcestcr County, Mass. IVoi'cester is the county town. This county was incorporated in 1731. Population, in 1S20, 73,635 ; 1830, 84,365; 1837, 96,551. It contains an area of 1,500 square miles. This county crosses the state from New Hampshire on the north, to Connecticut and Rhode Island on the south. It is bounded W. by the counties of Franklin, Hamp- shire, and Hampden, and E. by Norfolk and Middlesex counties. This is the largest county in the state. Its territory is larger than the state of Rhode Island, and its population is greater than that of the state of Delaware. Its sur- face is rather undulating than liilly. The soil is generally strons, and produces all kinds of grain, grasses, fruits, 8ic. common to its climate. Its water power is abundant in al- most every town, and perhaps in no section of New England are the interests of agriculture, commerce and manufactures more completely blended; nor can there be found better resources for their united support. Its principal rivers are the Blackstone, Quinabaus, Nash- ua, Ware, Millei-s, and Mill. There are in this county 54 towns, and 64 inhabitants to a square mile. In 1837, the value of the manu- factures in the county of Worces- ter was $11,407,790: the number of sheep in the county was 24,901 ; value of the wool, $37,267. AVorcestcr, Itlass. County town, Worcester co. This town was incorporated in 1684, but in consequcnco of Indian hostili- ties, the tirsttown meeting was not held until 1722. This part of the country was called by ttio Indians, Quiiisigamoiid, and Tntmuck and Bogachoak hills were Indian resi- dences. The central situation of tlie town, both in regard to the county and state, the fertility of its soil and that of the surrounding coun- try, the salubrity of its climate, and the industry, intelligence and wealth of its people, have long since entitled it to the honor of be- ing called the chief town in " the Heart of the Commonwealth." The town is situated in a valley, and sui-rounded by hills pf gentle ac- clivity. It is well built and beau- tifully shaded, and travellers from every direction, are delighted with its neatness and beauty. A number of the streams which form the head waters of the Black- stone meet in this town, and fur- nish a considerable water power. Worcester is 40 miles W. from Boston, 51 E. from Northampton, 38 S. W. from Lowell, and 41 N. N. W. from Providence, R. I. Popu- lation, 1820, 2,962; 1830, 4,172; 1835, 6,624; 1S37, 7,117. There are in Worcester 8 woolen, 3 cotton and 2 paper mills; an air and cupola furnace, 9 woolen ma- chinery IV.ctories, 3 tin factories, and manufactures of coaches, chais- es, boots, shoes, hats, cutlery, chairs, cabinet ware, ploughs, straw bon- nets, palm-leaf hats, wire, lead pipe, paper machinery, &c. : total value, the year ending April 1, 1837, $1,042,369. Worcester is the centre of a large inland trade. The Blackstone ca- NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. nal, from Providence, R. I. ,45 miles in length, terminates here ; and here is a permanent depot on the great western rail road fx'om Boston to the Hudson river. This is the seat of many religious, literary, and philanthropic societies. The State Lunatic Asylum, es- tablished in this town in 1S32, is an institution honorable to the nature of man. It is a beautiful building, delightfully located, and admirably conducted. Its plan and arrange- ments are so excellent as to render it a model for similar institutions in other states. This institution is a receptacle for all persons arraigned as crimi- nals, but found to have committed the offences in a state of insanity ; of paupers, and of those who are so furiously mad as to render their continuance at large dangerous to the community. Although the worst cases of in- sanity are found here, yet experi- ence has proved that there ai-e very few cases of derangement which may not be ameliorated by the kindly influence of humane treat- ment. The average recoveries, to the present time, is about 56 pr. ct. The American Antiquarian So- ciety, was founded in 1812. By the liberality of the late Isaiah Thomas, LL. D., one of its first benefactors, a spacious hall was erected in 1820, for the reception of its large and valuable cabinet of antic|uities, and its library of about 12,000 volumes of American pub- lications, particularly of all works pertaining to American history, and literature generally. Mr. Thomas was the father of New England printers. He pub- lished the first newspaper in this town, in 1775, and, a few years af- ter, the first bible in America. He was a gentleman of great patri- otism and liberality. He was born in Boston, January 19th, 1749, and died in this town, April 4, 1831. ^"ortliington, Mass. Hampshire co. This town has a good soil : it is pleasantly situated on elevated ground : it has some mineral treasures, and is washed by a branch of Westfield river. It is 103 miles W. from Boston, 55 E. from Albany, N. Y., and 17 W. N. W. from Northampton. Incorpora- ted, 17G3. Population, 1837, 1,142. The manufactures of Worthing- ton consist of leather, boots, shoes, cui-tains, children's wagons, and hats: annual value, about $50,000. In 1837, there were sheared in this town 9,050 merino sheep : the wool weighed 27,000 pounds, and sold for $16,875. "Wrentliam, Mass. Norfolk CO. There is a large pond near the centre of this town, from which issue several streams which flow to the Charles, Nepon- set and Taunton. In this town are one woolen and four cotton mills, an axe manufactory ; boat build- ing to a considerable extent ; and manufactures of boots, shoes, hats, hoops and straw bonnets. The to- tal value of the manufactures of this town, for the year ending April 1, 1837, was $204,806; of which $77,815 was for straw bonnets. Wrentham is a pleasant town, with a tolerable soil and diversified surface. It was taken from Ded- ham in 1673. Population, 1837, 2,817. A family of Indians once resi- ded in a cavern in this town, called " Wampum's Rock," which place is rather a curiosity. The Indian name of the town was Walloma- liogge. Wrentham is 27 miles S. by W. from Boston, and 15 S. by W. from Dedham. This town is bounded S. E. by Mansfield, and within the re- gion of a vast bed of anthracite coal. Tantic River, Ot. New London co. This stream NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. rises by several branches in the northwest part of the county, and passing in a soutlieast course meets the united waters of tlic Quiniie- baug and Shetucket at Norwich, where the waters of the three riv- ers fall with great rapidity, form- ing the Thames, and producing a valuable hydraulic power. See JVoricich. It is said that a party of Mohe- gan Indians plunged themselves down the Yantic falls, when pur- sued by their foes, the Narragan- sets. YarmoiitU, Mass. Barnstable co. Yarmouth e.\- tends across Cape Cod, and has a good harbor on each side. There are several ponds in the town, from which issue a small stream, called Bass river, and fi-om which a small water power is derived. The soil of the cape here becomes thin, sandy and unproductive. The peo- ple of this town arc principally de- voted to the fishing business, coast- ing trade, and the manufacture of salt. There arc, however, some manufactures of vessels, cordage, leather, cabinet and tin wares, chairs, boots and shoes. Some sheep are kept, but the agricultur- al productions are small. A large number of vessels are engaged in the coasting trade, and in 1337, 13 vessels, of about 50 tons each, were employed in the cod and mackerel fishery : the product, that year, was $26,622. During that year there were in operation in this town, 52 establish- ments for the manufacture of com- mon salt, and t for the manufac- ture of Epsom s;ilts. The quaniity of common salt made was 365,200 bushels. The value of common salt w;is,«;109,5G0; of Epsom salts, $1,350. ' Hands employed, 55. In 1837, there were in the state of Massachusetts 743 establishments for the manufacture of salt : 758,- 392 bushels were made, valued at $246,05!), employing 708 hands. Yarmouth is bounded W. by Barnstable, and lies 72 miles S. E. from Boston. Incorporated, 1639. Population, in 1330, 2,251; 1837, 2,451. Voi-k County, Me. Alfred is the county town. This county is bounded N. by Oxford county, N. E. by the county of Cumberland, E. by the ocean, S. by Portsmouth harbor, and W. by Stratford county, N. H. It com- prises an area of about 818 square miles. Its population in 1810, was 41,S77; 1820,46.283; 1830,51,722; and in 1S37, 53,781. Population to a square mile, 66. The surface of the county is rough and uneven, but not mountainous ; its highest elevation is Mount Agamenticus. Its soil is hard and rocky, particu- larly on the sea coast, which ex- tends about 35 miles. There is, however, much good land within the limits of York county : it pro- duces large quantities of English and salt hay, potatoes and other vegetables, corn, and some wheat ; but the hitter grain is not so abun- dant in this as in the more eastern counties. The quantity of wheat grown in this county in 1837, was but 17,795 bushels. There is much good grazing land in the county, and in 1837, there were 60,392 sheep within its limits. The sea coast is lined with fini; harbors tor the fishery, and many vessels are built of native timbei'. The county contains many capes, points and necks of lanil, on which are well conducted light bouses. Tlie tonnage of the three districts witliin the county, Saco, Kenne bunk and York, in 1337, was 11,505 tons. York county contains many excellent mill streams; and the value of its hydraulic powei-is be- ginning to be seen and felt. This ancient county was the lodgement of some of the first set- tlers of New Enailand. See Saco. NEW ENGLAND GAZETTEER. York, Me. York CO. This is an ancient mar- itime town, on the coast, between Kittery and Wells. It is bounded W. by South Berwick. This was for many years the shire town, and the place of holding the courts and keeping the records for the whole province, until the counties of Cumberland and Lincoln were set off in 1760. The town was incor- porated in 1653. York has a court house and gaol, but all the county courts have been, within a few years past, removed to Alfred. The principal harboris York river, about 6 miles from Ports- mouth, N. H., with water sufficient for vessels from 200 to 300 tons bur- then. The entrance, however, is difficult, being narrow and crooked. The other harbor is cape Neddock, about 4 miles N. E. of the former, navigable about a mile from the sea at full tides only ; it having a sand bar at its mouth, sufficient to prevent vessels of any considera- ble burthen fi-om passing at low water. Cape Neddock and Bald Head are the head lands. The former is a little to the south of cape Neddock river. At the end of this cape is a small hillock called the Nubble, on which Congress has recently au- thorised the erection of a Light liouse. Boon Island lies about 9 miles southeast of this point. Bald Head makes the S. W. part of Wells bay. ^ The settlement of this place be- gan about the year 1630 : it was then called Agamenticus, from a mountain of that name in the north part of the town. This is of consid- erable elevation, and a noted land mark. From its summit, there is an extensive prospect bounded by the great ranges of the N. H. mountains on the N. and N. W., and the Atlantic on the coast from Cape Ann to Cape Elizabeth. This town was nearly destroyed by the Indians and French in 1692, who, coming on snow shoes, sur- prised the unvvarj^ inhabitants at early jnorning. This calamity was so desolating, that the few remain- ing inhabitants had thoughts of abandoning the place altogether ; but a number remained, though sufTering under severe privations from the destruction of almost every thing that could give them shelter or sustenance. The population of the town in 1830, was 3,485 ; but has been re- duced since that time, by the an- nexation of a portion of its northern angle to South Berwick. Its popu- lation in 1837, was 3,001. York is situated 99 miles S. W. from Augusta, 45 S. W. by S. from Portland", 22 S. S. E. from Alfred and 9 N. by E. from Portsmouth, N. H.