:^^^M f^^.. 7*^' ANNALS RECOLL EG TIONS OIEIDA COUNTY. " stretch forth ! stretch forth ! fVom the South to tbeNorth, From the East to the West— stretch forth ! stretch forth ! Strengthen thy states anfl lengthen thy corfls— The World is a tent for the World's true Lords 1 Brealt forth and spread over eveiy place, The World is a World for the Saxon Race ! " Tupper. BY POMROY JONES. ROME: PUBLISHED BY THE AUTHOR. 1851. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1851, By pomroy JONES, In tlie Clerk's Office of the District Court of tlie United Slates for the Northern District of New York. P KE F AC E. It is now sixty-seven years since James Dean and Hugh White became permanent settlers in Oneida County. Al though lectures have been delivered, and half century sermons preached, containing valuable reminisoenoes of particular localities ; yet the great body of the county has had little done for the preservation of its annals. During a protracted illness of his father in 1838, while the Author's attendance was required near the siek bed, he wrote a few chapters of early incidents, wbich were published. At the time, the Author was strongly solicited to write an extended and connected history of the County. His duties, as a member of the County courts, and to his family, then prerented it. After the adoption of our presen t Constitution, by which one, instead of five Judges, was made to constitute and hold those courts, — the Author was left free from his public duties, and he at onee set about collect ing the materials for the following work. When commencing, if he could have foreseen the amount of labor with which he was about to tas himself, poss-ibly Le IV. PREFACE. might have quailed ; but the pleasure experienced in his researches, added to the little native perseverance he pos sessed, entirely preeludM the idea of an abandonment of hii3 purpose. It has been endeavored to have every portion correct. In all instances," the most accurate information has been sought. It is not, however, to be presumed but that minor inaccuracies are contained in the work. There has been fre quently a very great discrepancy in the relation of the same transactions, by different individuals ; and it has been no slight task to reconcile these different statements ; but in most cases the Author has been enabled to do so, to his own satisfaction. In relation to the military operations that occurred d.urjng the Revolutionary contest, there is a very great diversity in the statements made by different Authors. Col. Marinus W^illett, a prominent actor in these operations, published a narrative detailing them, soon after the close of the war. This narrative has been considered the best evidence, as to the matters it contains. He was an eye witness, and wrote them out while fresh in his memory, while other authors have but compiled the recollections. of men far advanced in life, or the sttll more unreliable evidence of tradition. The Author has found himself too late by a quarter of a century, in looking up the materials for a full and perfect notice of " Men and events," in the early settlement of the County. Even since he commenced, death has closed many PREFACE. V. lips, from which much valuable information was expected. An interview was had with the late Philo White, youngest son of Judge White, ihe pioneer of Whitestown, and valu able information elicited and notes taken. Another interview was promised ; but ere it was had — his tongue was forever silent ! ^ Joseph Blackmer, Esq., one of the earliest settlers of the County, and whose obituary will be found in the history of Westmoreland, a man of great observation and memory, and whose recollections of the early days of Oneida were more perfect and vivid than that of almost any other individual, and to whopi it was intended to apply, was in his grave before the opportunity was had ! Lydia Parkman, a maiden lady, who moved into West- jnoreland in 1 790, and whose memory was such that her mind was a perfect record of whatever came to her notice in the first half century of her residence, died the past winter, aged seventy-five ! The distance ^to her residence was so brief, that it was supposed that whatever she could impart, could be had at almost any time; and while looking to more distant sources, " the wheel was broken at the cistern,'' and this vast reservoir was beyond our reach. These cases are but mentioned to show how fast all that is unwritten "is being lost. A compiler, twenty-five years hence, would find little left but , vague and unreliable tradition. Mueh aid has been rendered by very many individuals in VI. PPyEFACE. different towns in the County. The names of Amos 0. Osborn, Esq., of Sangerfield, William C. Brewster, of Annsville, and Clift French, Esq., of Western, should be mentioned, who left but little to be done for their towns, other than arranging and transcribing their manuscripts. The names of all his friends, who have kindly furnished valuable information, would swell the list too long for this plaee ; they will please accept our most grateful acknow ledgements. Joshua V. II. Clark, Esq., of Manlius, very politely gave permission to transcribe from his rich history of Onondaga. all that was requested, relative to Oneida County. The two lectures of William tracy, Esq., before the Young Men's Association, of Utica, containing " Notices of ^^len and Events in Oneida County," comprised much that is valuable and useful, and rendered essential aid. Hon. O. S. Williams delivered two lectures to the Clinton Lyceum, on the history of that place, which have been of great use in preparing the notices of Kirkland. The Eev. Dr. Asahel S. Norton, of Clinton, preached a Thanksgiving sermon ; the Rev. Israel Brainard, of Verona, a New Year's sermon ; the Rev. Messrs. Walter R. Long of the Presbyterian, and Jireh D. Cole, of the Baptist church of Whitestown, and 0. Bartholomew, of Augusta, half century sermons, that contained valuable statistics of the towns where delivered. The addresses, and a portion of the sermons have been published, and those not published, the PREFACE. VII. authors have kindly furnished their manuscripts, whieh have essentially lightened the labors of compiling the annils for those towns. A native of Oneida County, born in the year 1789, and not once having changed his place of 'residence — his own recollections of the earlier and later times in the County, lias enabled the Author, as he believes, to add something to ¦the interest of the book. The work has been extended to a much greater length 'than was at first anticipated ; for as the compilation pro gressed, materials have accumulated entirely beyond our expectations. This necessarily has caused delay. Other causes, over which the Author and Publisher had no control, unnecessary, and perhaps improper to be mentioned here. have effected further delay ; but at length every obstacle has been surmounted, and the public have the results of years «pent in the research. It is 'believed no higher desire need be extended to the readers, than that each will derive as much pleasure from the perusal, as has been experienced in the compilation. THE AUTHOR. l.ilRDSTlLLE, 1851. CONTENTS. INTRODUCTORY CHAPTER. , Page 1. Terra Incognita, or unknown land — all of the country west of Albany. Formation of Counties aud Towns, including and in cluded in Oneida County. Tryon county, changed tp Montgomery. Its limits defined. "VThitestown and its- boundaries. Town of Chemung. Ontario, Tioga, Otsego and Herkimer Counties. Onon daga County formed. Oneida County formed ;' its boundaries. Three terms of Common Pleas and General Sessions. The Towns in Oneida County in 1801. Jefferson and Lewis Counties formed. Oswego County formed. Formation of all the towns in the County, up to the present time. CHAPTER II. OKEIDA COUNTY. Page 14. Its location, latitude and longitude. The courses of the streams of water tliat drain tlie several sections of the county. Geology. Minerals. Elections. Town Meetings In 'Whitestown,. Courts, &c. Judges of Common Pleas and County Courts. Tables giving the votes for Governor for fifty years. Atable giving the popula tion in 1800, and each tenth year to 1850. Members of Assembly. Sheriffs and County Clerks. District Attorneys and Surrogates. Capital trials and punisliments. Couuty organizations. Political. Coxe's Patent. , ' CHAPTER III. ANNSVILLE. I Page 61. Geology. Fish Creek and branches. Probable Lakes. Miller'.s Creek. FaU Brook. Its FaUs. Rocks. "Water Power. Furnace at Taberg. Geographical description. Soil and productions. In dians. History. Antiquities. Anecdotes of, Joseph ^Y. Bloom field. Mr. Gere, the well-digger ; his death by the caving in of a well. Elias Brewster. Bringing the cows. A Panther. A Bear. 'William Lord drowned in the Rum Hole. Anecdote of going to School — and Snow in June. Names of early settlors. X. -CONTENTS. CHAPTER IV. AUGUSTA. Page 84. Situation. Peter Smith leased New Petersburgh, Other Patents. Oneida Reservation. First settlement of the Town, and first set tlers. Anecdote of Amos Parker. Jrancis O'Toole. Cassety's MiUs at Oriskany Falls. "Washington Street. Town Organized. Name. First Town Meeting. Failure of second meeting. First and other Merchants. Presidential Electors and Members of As sembly. First death — marriage and deaths. Clergymen buried. Deaths by fire-arms. Murder by an Indian, and the murdert-r executed by the avenger of blood. Accidents. Academy. Large families. Elisha Shephard. Bear stories. 'Villages. Religions societies. First sermon. Col. Thomas Cassety. CHAPTER V. AVA. Page 113. The youngest to'wn in the county. Ebenezer Harger the first settler. Names of early settlers. First saw-mill. Grist mUl. Hardships. Head waters of the Mohawk, Black river and Fish Creek emanate from it. Is well watered. Horace Hoyt the only merchant. Lumber dealer and manufacturer of Potash. A society of Friend,'!. Professional men. Common schools. Scliool fund. Soils. Ponds. French road. German settlers. First supervisor. CHAPTER VI. BOONVILLE. ' Page 116. Its territory first in Whitestown, then in Steuben, then in Leyden, and was organized as a town in 1805. Kortnaer first name propos ed. Andrew Edmunds the first settler in 1795. First grist and saw-mill. In 1796, large accessions to the settlement, and store and tavern erected. First death, birth and marriagje. Lies ele vated. Egypt. Limestone. Lumber. Canal feeder. Religious societies. Boonville village. Alder creek. 'Williamsville. Num ber of mills. First town meeting. Supervisors. CHAPTER VII. BRIDGEWATER. j> Page J22. Location. Bridgewater Flats. Their fertility. Head waters of the UnadiUa. Line of property. Its history. Lime-stone. Coal — small vein of. Dissimilarity of the east and west hills. Josepli Farwell first settler — came in 1788. Other early settlers. First tavern. First saw-mill — store — blacksmith's shop and gi'ist-mill. A boy captures a young bear. Religious societies — Presbyterians — Friends — Baptists — 'Universalists. Academy. Bridgewater Fe male Seminary. CONTENTS. XI. CHAPTER VIII. CAMDEN. ' Page 131. Composed of the 7th and one-half of the Sth townships of Scriba's Patent. Taken from Mexico. First town meeting. First Super visor and town clerk. SoiL Building stone. First settler. First saw-miU. By whom raised. Early settlers. Mrs. Bacon and in fant drowned ; they were the flrst deaths in the town. Camden village. "West Camden. Mills. Religious societies. Incidents. CHAPTER IX. DEERFIELD. Page 13'J. The east line of Oneida county. Deerfield organized. First town meeting. First settlers iu 1773. Driven off' by the Indians and Tories in 1776. Timely notice by an Oneida Indian. All escaped. -i^ter incidents of thefirst settlers during the Revolutionary war. Removed back in 1784, Soil. Deerfield hill. Deerfield corners. Religious societies. Baptists. Eld. John Leland, Methodists. North Deerfield and South Trenton Baptists. MiUs. CHAPTER X. FLORENCE. Page 146. First settlement of the town. First settlers. Soil. Anecdote of a boy. Quarries. Streams of water. Organization of the town. — First town meeting. Description of the place. List of Supervi sors. Florence village. Its business and tanneries. ReUgious societies — Congregational — Methodist — Baptist. Reminiscences. - MiUs. CHAPTER XI. FLOYD. Page 155. Named from Gen. Floyd, who owned lands in its bounds. Probably when, and by whom first settled. Early settlers in the different parts of the town. The Moulton family. Their sufferings in the Revolution. "William Allen, Esq. Samuel Dyer, E.sq. Anecdote of Capt. Nathan Townsend. Geology and Soil. First Death.s. Sickness. List of Supervisors. First tavern. Religious Socie ties and houses for public worship. Union Hou,se, erected under peculiar articles of agreement. Baptists. "Welsh Methodi.sts. Schools. Floyd Corners. Nine-mile Creek. Obituaries of early .settlers. CHAPTER XII. KIRKLAND. Page 165. Settlement commenced. Names of early settlers ; had visited the place the previous fall ; disagreement and settlement as to the place to commence; their first domicils. First female who arrived. Building lots. Clearing. "Washington and Clinton land-holders. XII, CONTENTS. The nearest miU. Going to mUl. Saw mill. Fir^t religious meeting. Contentment. Death by drowning of Miss Tuttle. Thomas Fancier killed by a. falling tree.. Mercy Ste\)bins, third death. First marriages. First birth. Accessions. Famine in 1783. Relief by Isaac Paris. First framed houses and barns. Thomas Hart. Bears. Local names. Dreaming 'match. Han's store robbia. ' Religious Societies. Geology. Manchester. Ham ilton Oneida Academy. Plamilton CoUege. A. M. Stowe's adures^;. Biography of Samael Kirkland. Notice- of Moses FOote. Jesse Curtiss and hi.s obituary ; his ancient Bible. CHAPTER XIII, First settlement and settlers of the town. Ideas of the Connecticut people 01 lis location. Patents. Its territory: in what counties and towns, previous to its organization. Organized in 1811. By whom named. First town meeting. First supervi.'>or and town clerk. List of supervisors. Soil and productions. Bears; the two Cunninghams kill one. First death, birth and marriage. First saw and gri.st mill. First school-house. Course of discipline. Business. Religious societies. Schools. Early fishery. Lee Cen tre. Nikbet's Corners. Robert Njsbet. Delta; its biisiness. CHAPTER XIV. MARCY. Page 2:;7. I In 1740, an emigrant, by the name of "Wilson, leaves Ireland, and comes to Connecticut, from thence to Vermont ; eight of his sons in the Continental army, one of his sons fhe first settler in Marcy. who is soon followed .by two brothers. Customs and anecdotes of the first settlers. A hunter. Healthy. Schools. Indians. Busi ness. Religious societies. Named from Gov. Marcy, -s<,'ho visited the town. CHAPTER XV MARSHALL. Page 247. Brotkertown India'ns. Land given them hy the Oneidas. A part settled here previous to the Revolution ; they mostly left just pre vious to that war ; "Wampy and One or two others remained. Ren contre between "Wampy and a hostile Indian. After peace the In dians returned; in 1831, commenced selling and removing to Green Bay. First .seltliiment of the town by th,e whites. Names of .some of the first settlers. Geology. Religious societie.''. Henrich Star- ing's escape from the Indians at this place ; his Yankee pass and decision. "Villa,ges. Addenda. Book of Indian records discovered . Clerks. Lands assigned to them. Their to-wn meetings. By-laws. Fugitive slaves. Proceedings in a treaty with the -western Indians. Inscription on grave stones. CONTENTS. XIII. CHAPTER XVI, NEW HARTFORD. , Page 272. The settlement of the town was commenced in 1788 by Col. Sanger ; riioved his family the next spring ; he built the first saw and grist mill. Names of early settlers in different parts of the to-wn. Con- .struction of the Seneca turhpike in 1800 ; one cause of rapid growth ; its prosperity for a time, injured by the construction of the Erie Canal. Present business of the viUage. First child born. Re ligious societies. Incidents in relation to Mr. Johnson's ordination. B'irst house for public worship in the county. Bisgraphy of Judge Sanger, Gen, .Oliver Collins, Manufactures, Mills, CHAPTER XVII. PARIS. Page 288. First settler and settlers in the town. Congregational Church in 1791 . Mr. Steele; his epitaph ; persecutions of, in Shay's war. A chap ter of crime. Monuments in the Paris Hill Cemetery. George Stanton burned in his house. Episcopalian Church at Paris HilK Sauquoit ; first settlement pf this section. Names of the early set tlers. Incident in the life of Kirkland Griffin. Benjamin Merrills. First store and tavern. Methodist a,hd Union Presbyterian societies. Cassville; first settlers ; its ^hurclies. -Business on the Sauqlioit Creek ; a reminiscence of the supposed capability of the stream. Col. Gardner Avery; his obituary. Of Edward Scoville. Mills. CHAPTER XVIII. R,EMSEN. Page 304. Location, streams of water, soil and productions.' Geology, rocks and minerals. Prom whom named. Patents. New stimulants for the settUng of the north part of the to-wn. First settlement, in 1792, bv Barnabas Mitchell. Hardships. Reinforced in 1793. ' First death aud birth. Arrival of 'Welsh emigrants in. 1808 ; their characteris tics. Religious societies. Schools, Remsen village ; its first set tlement; its present business. Intemperance and temperance. Re- chabite tent. MiUs. First town meeting in 1798. List of super visors. Obituary of John G. Jones. CHAPTER XIX, ROME. Page 312. Ancient carrying-place, with the Dutch and Indian names; first notice of it ; tradition. Fort Bull. Fort "WiUiams ; destroyed by Gen. "Webb. Itinerary ; description of the country, Pitt. Fort Stanwix erected. Roof and Brodock ; obituary of the former. In 1776, the fort repaired; in 1777, St. Leger sent to take it; invests it; events during "the siege. Oriskany battle; "WUlett's sortie; death of Herkimer. Arnold arrives at Fort Dayton. Han Yost * Schuyler. Siege raised. Various reminiscences. First settlement of the to-wn. Early settlers. Old canal. Peter Colt. George Huntington. "War of 1812. United States arsenal. Erie Canal. Syracuse and Utica rail-road. Academy. Schools. Religious societies. Old newspaper. Obituaries of Ebenezer "Wright and Edward. Potter, Addenda. XIV. CONTENTS. CHAPTER XX, SANGERFIELD. Page -401.. Number 20 of the twenty town.ships. Surveyed in 1789, Purchased 1790. First settler, Zerah Phelps, in 1792, Names of early set tlers, A freshet. Early frost. Accident to Mr. Clark. Firstborn, a female. Included in Paris. Alarm from the Indians. Amusing Indian anecdote. First born male. CbLNorton. First marriage. 1793 favorable. Large reinforcement of emigrants. Great use of bake kettles. First store. In 1795, the town of Sangerfield organ ized. First town raeeting. First supervisor. First post office. Number of taxable inhabitants in 179fa. The first physician. In 1798, Chenango County formed, including Sangerfield. In 1804, set to Oneida. Religious societies. Newspapers. Location. Ge ology. Streams of water. ViUages. Murder of Benjamin "White. List of supervisors. Obituary. CHAPTER XXI. STEUBEN. Page 428. Organized in 1792. First town meeting near Fort Stan-nax. In 1796, Rome and Floyd taken from it; and, in 1796, "Western and Leyden. Elevated location. Steuben and Star's hill. Rocks. First settlers, First birth and marriage. Biography of Baron Steuben; anecdotes of the Baron; fhe Baron's grave. Wonderful occurrence. Nn tavern. Longevity. Religious societies. Printing, office. CHAPTER XXII. TRENTON. Page 440. First settler. Oldenbarneveld. Mr. Boon, agent for fhe Holland Land Company. Service's Patent. Anecdote of Peter Stnith. Destruction of the Johnson papers. Col. Mappa and Dr. Vander- kerap. Hardships at Oldenbarneveld. Other early setilers. First- saw and grist miU. First to-n'n meeting. Geology. Agriculture. Trenton Falls. MoonUght Reveries. Accidents af the Falls. Cavern. Villages. HoUand's Patent ; its history. Religious so cieties. Biography, Dr, Guiteau. Dr. Vanderkemp. CHAPTER XXIII. UTICA. Page 48tj, Earliest mention of its site, Indian name. Port Schuyler. Notice of in Edinburgh Encyclopedia, Survey of Cosby's Manor. Notice of early settlers. Uriah and 'WiUiam Alverson ; the Moreys ;. Fran cis Foster ; SUyea ; Joseph Soule ; James S. Kip ; Stephen Potter ; John Post, the first merchant ; John Cunningham ; Jacob Christ- man ; Mrs. Petrie. Anecdotes of Saucy Nick and Brant.' Inl79^ inhabitants of. Dr. Carrington; Peter BeUinger ; John BeUinger. First Bridge in 1792. Names and Notices of many ofthe promii nent settlers and' inhabitants. Amount of Taxes in 1800. Titles of the land. John Bradstreet. 'Western Sentinel. 'Whitestown Ga zette and Cato's Patrol. Columbian Gazette. Erie canal, Packeta. CONTENTS, Xy. Missionary tour of John Taylor, Meetings in behalf of the Greeks and Poles, LetterofLaFayette, Meeting of Abolitionists, Coun ter meeting. Record of prominent events. History of the corpo ration. Population at different periods. Churches. Institutions, Associations, Companies, &c., &c. New York State Lunatic Asy- lum^ Forest HiU Cemetry. Banks. Globe mills. Steam cotton mills. Water works. Gis works. Ancient Britons' Society. Me chanics' Associations. Schools. Academy. Female Seminar}-. Common Schools. Secret Societies, CHAPTER XXIV. VERNON. Page 634. Settled late. Includes the- principal Oneida vUlage. Early -wealth Oneida Reservation. Bleecker's, Basahard's, Van Eps' and Ser-. geant's Patents. First settlers. First death. Names of settlers. Emigrants. Their characteristics. First marriage and birth. — Geology. Mineral spring. Religious societies. Organization of the town. First town meeting. Grist MiUs. Supervisors. Lo cal names. Accidents.-'-'Schools. Biography. Anecdotes. Epi taph of Rev. JohU' Sergeant. Indian Orchard. CHAPTER XXV. VERO.SA. Page 662. Size. First settlers. A Romance. First death. Royal block house. Early settlers of the town, dead and living. Notice of Elizabeth "Whaley Matteson.- Organization of the town. First to-wn meet ing. Supervisors. First election. Accidents. Sickn^s, 1805. Improvement. ViUages. Geology. Medicinal spring. Religious Societies. CHAPTER XXVI. VIENNA. Page 690. Organized. Townships 9 and 10 Scriba's Patent. Face of the town and timber. Lumber. Agriculture. Quarry. Oneida Lake. Voters. Saw and grist mills. Bears. Frenchman's Deer hunt. Ring hunt iu 1820. Villages. McConnellsviUe. North Bay. Vi enna. "West Vienna and Fish Creek Landing, Religious Societies. CHAP.TER XXVII, WESTERN. Page 699. Boundaries and size. Time and by whom the settlement was com menced. Their seed, grain and potatoes brought from Herkimer. Leases, the most common conveyances. Roads and first bridge across the Mohawk. Incorporation of.the town and first town meeting. Supervisors, "Waters, Face of the town. Geology, &c, OriginaJ Patentees, Schools, Westernville. Mills and other bu siness establishments. ReUgious societies. Their charity to each other. Biography of Gen. I'loyd. Anecdotes oi. XVI. CONTENTS, CHAPTER XXVIII, WESTMOE.ELAND. Page 713. Fourth to-wn settled. Dean's Patent. "Wemple's and Kirkland's Pat ents. First settlement and settlers. Anecdote of Ephraim Black- mer's last day's journey. Other Settlers arrive. History of Nathan Loomis' Farm. Titles of Farms. Hardships. MiUs erected.— Settlers in different parts. Geology, A Hurricane, Historical Beminiscences. Ages of twenty persons. First deaths — marriages. Merchants. Religious Societies. Biography. A second Cente narian, Schools and school-houses, "ViUages, CHAPTER XXIX. "W-HITESTOWN. ' Paqe 782. The first permanent settlement in the County. The beauties of Central and "Western New York discovered by New England sol- dieiffi, in the old French and Revolutionary wars. Hugh "White, the first settler. His journey, age, and family. Sauquoit Patent.' Mills. Law suit. A Samp mortar. Scarcity. PhiIo'"White. Pi geons. Early Settlers. Notices of "Wrestling match. Traits of judge "White. Indians. Religious Societies. First organization of the Town. Its limits. Spirit of the early inhabitants. Offices heldbythem. "Western Centinel. Salt manufacturers. Villages. Aboriginal remains. Two obituaries of Revolutionary Soldiers. C H APTER XXX. INDIANS. Page 833. The Six Nations. Their name as given by themselves and others. — laoauois most general. Population at various periods. Oneidas. Their History. Missionaries to. Characteristics. Their Wars and their connection with the Dutch, English and French. Con tinued. Plattcopf Scanandoa. Present condition of the Tribe. Visit to the remnant. Indian names of persons and localities. Os ceola's Anecdotes. TuscARORAs. Fromwhence — their history and wars. Emigrate to near Oneida. Become the Sixth Nation. Join the Americans in the Revolutionary war. Stockbridge Indians. Their history. Missionaries and Missions School. Emigrate fo New Stockbridge — to Green Bay. Tradition of Brothertons. Their History. Samson Occijm, TJiey emigralo to this Countv'. Thence fo Green Bay. INTEODTJCTORY CHAPTER. The Dutch originally settled and governed the territory within the present limits of the State of New York, and by them it was called New Netherlands. As late as 1638 that portion of it lying west of Fort Orange (Albany) was termed by the Dutch chroniclers, '¦ Terra Intognita" or Unknown Land. In 1674 the Dutch fihally surrendered the colony to the English, and it was named New York, in honor of the Duke of York, to whom the colony had been granted by Charles II in 1664. It had, however, been surrendered by the Dutch Gov. Stuyvesant, in 1664, to the English, by whom it was held until 1673, when it was taken by the Dutch, and held by them until the next year. In 1683 the colony was divided by its Legislature into twelve counties, viz. : — New York, Albany, Dutchess, Kings, Queens, Orange, Ulster, Richmond, Suffolk, "Westchester, Dukes, and Corn wall. In 1768 and 1770, the counties of Cumberland and Gloucester were added. Dukes and Cornwall, after a bitter controversy, were surrendered to Massachusetts in 1693 ; and a part of Gloucester and Cumberland was, after a quarrel, ceded to New Hampshire, and now forms a partof Vermont; and the portion of the two counties retained was formed into a county called Charlotte, now Washington County. This chapter is written to show the changes made in the territory now or formerly «-«, or eonnected « JifA, the territory 1 2 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COIINTY. [OHAP. of the' County of Oneida, including the formation of counties and towns, and the changes made in their boundaries. . In 1772 the County of Tryon was formed from the terri tory of Albany County lying westwardly of a line running nearly north and south through the present County of Scho harie. The name Tryon having become highly obnoxious from the active hostility and acts of wanton cruelty of Gov. Tryon towards the Americans during the Revolution, the Legislature, on the, 2d of April, 1784, changed the name of Tryon County to Montgomery, in honor of the General of that name who had fallen at Quebec. By the same act Montgomery County was divided into five districts, called Mohawk, Canajoharrie, Palatine, German Flats, and Kings- land, German Flats district included all the western part of the State, and was then an unbroken forest, excepting a few German settlements upon the Mohawk, Kingsland dis trict included the northern part of Herkimer County, and extended westwardly to the West Canada Creek, In 1786 Montgomery County contained fifteen thousand and fifty- seven inhabitants. By the act of March 7, 1788, defining the boundaries of the several counties in this State, the County of Montgomery was declared to contain " all that part of this State bounded easterly by the. Counties of Ulster, Albany, Washington, and Clinton ; southerly by the State of Pennsylvania ; and westerly and northerly by the west and, north bounds of this State," By an act of the same date the following town.s in. Montgomery County were bounded and described, viz.: — Caughnawaga, Palatine, Herkimer, Mohawk, Harpersfield, Otsego, Canajoa;harrie, German Flats, and Whitestown. By an act of the same date, German Flats district was divided- and the town of White's Town (thus written) was formed, and bounded easterly by a Jine running north and south to- I.] rSTKODrCTORT CHAPTEE. 3 the awth and south bonnds of the State, and Grossing the Mohawk Biver at the Ford near, and on the east side o^ the hoose of WiUiaiu Giumingham, and whidi line was the west ern boundaij of tbe towns <>£ HeiMmer, G«Tman Flats, and Ots^o : soatlierlj by the State ei Pennsylvania ; and west and north by tiie bounds of tbe State. The house of Williani Ctaminghani referred to, stood near tiie foot of Genesee street in Uti«sa. and npon, or near the site of the store now occupied by Stephen Comstock. These were the boundaries of tiie Coimty of Oneida in embryo, in 178S : but we shall see that, by subsequent enactments, itj ciiiiem line was lenurred eastwardly to its present positioi; at the eastern boundary of tiie county. By an act passed March 22. 17SS. the town of. Chemung was formed in and from a part of Montgomery County lying oa the Ow^o and Tioga Rirers, but its bounds would be hardly inteU^Ue now. By an act passed January 27. 17Sy, the County of On tario was formed and bounded as folio «"s : — '•All that part o: the County ai 3Iontgomery which lies to the westward of a line to be drawn due north to Lake Ontario from the miie stone or monuments marked ei.slUffiicv, and standing in tLi:- ":ae of division between this State and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, ^aU be one separate and distinct county, and le called and known by the name of Ontario." By an aei passed Feb. 16, 1791. Montgomery County was iiviied. and the Counties of Tioga. Otsego, and Herkimer firmed from its territory, and the bounds of tiie County of Ontario changed. The County of Herkimer (including the present territory CI Oneida) was bounded as follows: — -AH that tract of land bounded westerly by the CTOuntyof Ontario, northerly by tie north bounds of this State, easterly by the Counties of 4 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Clinton, Washington, and Saratoga, and southerly by the Counties of Montgomery, Otsego, and Tioga," The north parts of the towns of Palatine and Caughnawaga, lying north of a line beginning at a place called Jersey Fields, on the line between the towns of Herkimer and Palatine, and thence easterly to Saratoga County, were added to Herkimer County. By an act passed April 10, 1792, the town of Whitestown was divided, and the towns of Westmoreland, Steuben, Paris, Mexico, Peru, and Whitestown formed of its territory. TVestmorelancl was bounded by a line beginning at the eastern line of the Oneida reservation, where the line of Steuben crosses the samCj thence southerly and westerly along said reservation line to a point opposite the south-west corner of a tract granted to Abraham Weniple, thence along the southern line of Wemple's tract to the " old line of pro perty," thence northerly at right angles with said line of property to the Oriskany Creek, thence down said creek to the southern bounds of the Oriskany Patent, thence north-west erly parallel to the old line of property to " Steuben Town," thence along the line of Steuben to the place of beginning. First town meeting to be held at the house of James Dean. Steuben was all that part of Whitestown bounded as fol lows: — Beginning at the mouth of the Nine Mile Creek, running thence north-eastwardly to the north-east corner of Holland Patent, thence northerly along the eastern bounds of Steuben's Patent to the north-east corner thereof, thence due north to the northern bounds of the State, and also from the place of beginning due west to the line of the Oneida reservation, thence north-west along said line to Fish Creek, thence due north to the northern bounds of the State. First l] ktroductory chapter. 5 town meeting at the house of Seth Ranney, near Fort Stanwix. Paris was all that part of Whitestown bounded as foUows: — Beginning at Stillman's Bridge on Oriskany Creek, thence south-easterly to the house of Jas. Fairwell, on lot No. 80 in the 7th Division of Cox's Patent, thence southerly in a direct line until it meets the New Hartford road, where it crosses a creek a few rods west from the house of Samuel WeUs, thence southerly in a Une to the south-western comer of lot No. 7 in the 1 1th Division of Cox's Patent, thence due east to the Une of German Flats, thence southerly along said Une to Tioga County, thence westerly along the line of Tioga County to the western line of the twenty Townships, thence northerly to the Une of Oneida reservation, thence along the last line to the Une of Westmoreland, thence along the last Une to the place of beginning. First town meeting at the house of Moses Foote, Esq. Mexico was aU that part of Whitestown bounded as fol lows: — Easterly by the eastern bounds ofthe MiUtary Tract. and. a line drawn northward from the mouth ofthe Connisse- rago Creek across Oneida Lake to Lake Ontario, southerly by Tioga County, westerly by the western bounds of the town ships of Homer, TuUy, MarceUus, CamiUus, Lysander, and Hannibal, of said MiUtary Tract, and northerly by Lake Ontario. First town meeting at the house of Benjamin Moorehouse. Peru was aU that part of "Whitestown bounded easterly by the town of Mexico, southerly by Tioga County, westerly by- Ontario County, and northerly by Lake Ontario, First town meeting at the house of Seth Phelps, Esq. 6 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [OHAF. All the remainder of Whitestown to be and remain a town by the name of Whitestown, and the first town meeting to be held at the house of Jedediah Sanger, Esq. The County of Onondaga was formed by an act of March .'5, 1794, and was composed ofthe Military Tracts. By an act passed' March 5, 1795, the town of Cazenovia was formed of parts of the towns' of Whitestown and Paris, Herkimer County ; and the towns of Hamilton, Sherburne, Brookfield, and Sangerfield, were formed of parts of Paris. By an act passed Feb. 26, 1796, the town of Mexico was formed of part of Herkimer County, with bounds different from those stated on last page. The- reasons why this town was twice formed, are not stated. The bounds of Mexico as now formed were as follows: — Beginning at the north-west ern corner of Fonda's 40,000 acre patent, thence along the western side of Canadp- Creek to Wood Creek, thence down Wood Creek to Oneida Lake, thence through the middle of Oneida Lake to its western end, thence to the northern shore of Onondaga River, thence down that river to Lake Ontario, thence easterly and northerly along the shore of that lake to the mouth of Black River, thence up that river to the northern corner of ^5,000 acres sold by Wm. Constable to Wm. Inman, thence southerly 37 deg. 30 min. west along the north-western bounds of the last-named tract to the north-western corner of Oothout's Patent, thence southerly 1 deg. west along the western line of the, last-named patent to the place of beginning. First town meeting at the house of John MyerJ " in Rotterdam, in said town of Mexico." • By an act passed Ma;roh 4, 1796, the town of Steuben, Herkimer County, was divided; and the towns of Floyd and Rome erected from its territory,] Floyd was bounded as follows: -^Beginning at the north-western corner of the great lot No, 36 in Fonda's Patent^ and thence along the western I.J INTRODUCTORY CHAPTEE. 7 bounds of that lot and lots Nos. 50, 63, and 71 in Fonda's Patent, and in the same course continued to the southern bounds of Steuben, thence easterly' along the same to the mouth of the Nine Mile Creek, then along the south-eastern bounds of Steuben until a western line shall intersect the' north-eastern corner of the great lot 41 in Fonda's Patent, thence along said line and the northern bounds of said lot 41 and lots Nos. 40, 39, 38, 37, and 36 in Fonda's Patent to the place of beginning. First town meeting at the house of Saml. J. Curtiss. The town of Rome was bounded, as follows, viz. : — All that part of Steuben bounded northerly by a line to begin at the north-western corner of said town of Floyd, and then directly along the northern bounds of great lots Nos. 35, 34; 33, 32, 31, 30, 29, atid 83 in Fonda's Patent to Canada -Creek, thence down said creek to its junction with Wood 'Creek, thence along the western and the southern bounds bf said town of Steuben to .the south-west corner of Floyd, thence along the western bounds thereof to the place of be ginning. First town meeting to be held at the house of Ebenezer Claflin. The first town meeting in Steuben was to be held at the house of Joshua Wells. By an act passed March 10, 1797, the town of Steuben, Herkimer County, was divided into three towns, viz.: — Steuben, Western, and Leyden. The first town meetings were to be held as foUows: — In Steuben, at the- late residence of Baron Steuben, deceased ; in Western, at the house of Ezek. Sheldon; and in Leyden, at the house of Andrew Edmonds. By an act passed March 24, 1797, the town of Schuyler, Herkimer County, was divided, and the town of Trenton formed from its territory, and bounded as follows, viz.:-^ Segiaming ai a point ia the western line of Schuyler, four 8 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. ¦» miles north in the direction of said western line from Mohawk River, then northerly on said line to the north-western corner of said Schuyler, thence easterly on said town line to the great Falls on Canada Creek, thence down said creek to the iiorth-western corner of lot No, 55 Gage's Patent, thence on the western line of said patent south to the north-western corner of lot No. 18 on said patent, thence westerly in a straight line to the place of beginning. First town meeting at the House of Thos. Weeks. Remainder of Schuyler to be the town of Schuyler, and first town meeting at the house of Geo. G. Weber — -now TVeave?;. By an act also passed March 24, 1797, the town of San gerfield, Herkimer County, was divided, and the town of Bridgwater formed of its territory, and bounded as follows, viz.: — "All that part of the town of Sangerfield lying east erly of the division line between the third and fourth quar ters of the twentieth township so called, be, and is hereby erected into a separate town, by the name of Bridgwater."- First town meeting to be held at the house of Thos. Convers; and first town meeting in the town of Sangerfield, thus newly formed, at the house of Ebenezer Hale. At this time Herkimer and Montgomery constituted the Ninth Congressional District. An act was passed March 15, 1798, dividing the County of Herkimer, and forming the additional Counties of Oneida and Chenango from its territory. The boundaries of Oneida were as foUows, viz.: — "All that part of Herkemer County beginning at the south-west corner of the town of Bridg water, and running thence easterly on the line of said town to the Unadilla River, thence northerly and easterly on the line of Bridgwater to the town of. Litchfield, thence north erly on the line of Bridgwater and Litchfield to the south east corner of the town of Paris, thence the same line I.] INTRODUCTORY CHAPTER. 9 continued on the eastern line of Paris and Whitestown to the southerly line of Cosby's Manor, thence north-easterly in a direct line to the northerly bounds of said Cosby's Manor, at a point where the same is intersected by the division line between Gage's and Walton's Patents, thence northerly on the line between the said Walton's and Gage's Patents to the West Canada Creek, thence northerly up the waters of said creek to the forks thereof, thence east erly up the east branch of said creek to the north-east corner of Service's Patent, thence northerly to the northern bounds of this State, thence westerly along the northern bounds of this State to Lake Ontario, thence along the easterly shore of said lake to the mouth of the Oswego River, thence easterly up said river to the Oneida Lake, thence along the southern side of said lake to the Oneida Creek, thence up said creek on the eastern line of the County of Chenango to the north ern line of the town of HamUton, thence easterly along the northern bounds of said towns of Hamilton and Sangerfield to the north-western corner of the town of Bridgwater, thence southerly on the western line of said town of Bridgwater to the place of beginning." In the County of Oneida three terms of the Court of Common Pleas and General Sessions were to be held annu ally, viz.: — On the third Tuesday in May, first Tuesday in September, and last Tuesday in December, at "the School House near Fort Stanwix ;'' but no Circuit Court was to be held in the County unless the Justices of the Supreme Court should "in their judgment deem it proper and neces sary." Oneida and Chenango were to form a part of the district previously composed of Herkimer and Otsego, re specting all prosecutions in the Courtof Oyer and Terminer. The same act provided that a Court House and Jail should " be erected at such place within one mile of Fort Schuyler, 10 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. otherwise Fort Stanwix, in the town of Rome, as the Super visors" should designate ; also that this County should be represented by three Members of Assembly, and that the first meeting of the Board of Supervisors should be held at the School House in Rome, on the last Tuesday in May. By the terms of the same act. all that part of the town of Frankfort included within the boundaries of Oneida, should be added to the town of Whitestown ; and aU that part of ."-fchnyler included within Oneida was erected into a new town eaUed Deersfield, and the first town meeting in tlie latter was to be held at the house of Ezra Payne ; and all that part of Norway included in Oneida was eyected into a new town by the name of Remsen, and its first town meeting was to be held at the house of Samuel Howe. By the same act aU that part of "WTiitestown bounded westerly and southerly by the County of Chenango, easterly by Brothertown and Paris, and northerly "by the southern most Great Genesee Eoad," was formed into a new town called Augusta, and its first town meeting was to be held at the hou.se of Timothy Pond, Jr. ; and the remaining part of Whitestown "lying within the Oneida reservation, so called,' - was annexed to Westmoreland. The Counties of Montgomery. Herkimer. Oneida, and that part of Chenango formerly a part of Herkimer, were formed into a Congressional District. By an act passed March 15, 1799, the town of Mexico, Oneida County, was divided, and a new town eaUed Camden formed from its territory ; and the first town meeting in the latter was held at the hotise of Samuel Eoyee ; aud "aU that part of Township No. 2 in Scriba's Patent lying east of Fish Creek," was annexed to the town of Rome. By an act passed March 14, 1800, the town of Mexico was again divided, and the town of Redfield formed. I.] INTRODUCTORY CHAPTER. 11 Upon the revision ofthe laws of this State in 1801, an act was passed on the third of April in that year, fixing and re asserting the boundaries of the several counties. By this act the boundaries of Oneida were as follows, viz. : — "All that part of this State bounded easterly by the County of Herkimer, ndrtherly by the County of Clinton and by the northern bouflds of this State, from the most westerly corner of the County of Clinton to a place in Lake Ontario, where the said northern bounds shall be intersected by the new pre-emption line aforesaid," ('a line from Lake Ontario to Seneca Lake,) "continued' due north, westerly by the line last mentioned to the south bank of Lake Ontario, and south erly by the Counties of Cayuga, Onondaga, and Chenango, and the southern bounds -of the patent granted to Williani Bayard and others, caUed the Free Masons' Patent." By the act passed the 7th of April, 1801, dividing the counties into towns, the foUo'wing towns were described in the County of Oneida, viz.: — Bridgwater, Deerfield, Tren ton, Paris, Whitestown, Remsen, Floyd, Steuben, Western, Leyden, Rome, Camden, Redfield, Watertown, Champion, Lowville, Turin, Mexico, Westmoreland, and Augusta. By an act passed March 3, 1802, the County of St. Law rence, with nearly its present limits, was formed from the territory of Oneida. By an act passed Feb. 17, 1802, the towns of Verona and Vernon were formed' of parts of the towns of Westmoreland and Augusta; and the first town meeting ill the former was held at the house of Martin Langdon, and ii Vernon at the house of David Tuttle. By an act passed April 1, 1802, the towns of Leyden, Watertown, and Mexico, in Oneida Cotmty, were divided, and the towns of Brownville, Adams, and Rutland, formed from their territory. 12 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. By an act passed Feb. 22, 1803, the towns of Mexico, Turin, Lowville, and Champion, in Oneida County, were divided, and the new towns of ElUsburgh, Harrisburgh, and Martin sburgli formed from their territory. And by an act passed the same day, all such parts of the patent of land granted to Baron Steuben as were previously included within the towns of Trenton and Remsen, were annexed to the town of Steuben. By an act passed March 24, 1804, the towns of Adams and Mexico, Oneida County, were divided, and the towns of Harrison, Malta, and Williamstown formed therefrom. By an act passed Feb, 16, 1805, the ,town of Camden was divided, and th'e town of Florence erected from its territory, and the first town meeting in the latter was to be held at the house of John Spinning. By an act passed March 28, 1805, the County of Oneida was divided, and the Counties of Jefferson and Lewis erected from the northern portion of its territory ; and also forming the town of Boonville from the part of the town of Leyden remaining in the County of Oneida. First town nieeting in Boonville to be held at the house of_ Joseph Denning. By this act Oneida was entitled to three, and Jefferson and Lewis each to one Member of Assembly, The boundary line then established between Oneida, Jefferson, and Lewis, was substantially the same as that existing at present. An act was passed March 21, 1806, dividing the town of Mexico, Oneida County, and forming the town of Fredericks burgh from a part of its territory. By an act passed Feb, 20, 1807, the town of Williamstown was divided, and the town of Richland formed, and a part added to the town of Redfield,. And by an act. passed April 3, in the same year, the town of Camden was divided, and the town of Orange formed from a portion of its territory. And I.J INTRODUCTORY CHAPTER. 13 by an act passed April 6, 1808, the name of Orange was changed to Bengal. By an act passed AprU 8, 1808, the town of WiUiamstown was again divided, and the town of Constantia erected. By an act passed April 3, 1811, the town of Western was divided, and the town of Lee formed from a portion of its territory ; and the first town meeting in the latter was to be held at the house of Samuel Darling. And by an act passed AprU 5, 1811, the town of Fredericksburgh, Oneida Cotmty, was divided, and the town of Scriba formed from its terri tory, and the remainder of the former to remain a town with its name changed to Volney; and by a law passed in 1816, the name of Bengal was changed to Vienna. By an act passed March 1, 1816, the towns of Constantia, Mexico, New Haven, Redfield, Richland, Scriba, Volney, WiUiamstown, (Oneida Co.,) and the town of Hannibal, (Onon daga Co..) were formed into a new county, named Oswego. By an act passed AprU 7, 1817, the town of Whitestown was divided, and the town of Utica formed ; and by a law passed April 12, 1823, the town of AnnsvUle was formed from the towns of Lee, Florence, Camden, and Vienna ; and by a law passed AprU 12, 1827, the town of New Hartford was formed from aipart of "Wbitestown ; and by a law passed April 13, 1827, the town of Kirkland was formed from a part of Paris. By a law passed Feb. 21, 1829, the town of Mar shaU was formed from a part of the town of Kirkland ; and by a law passed March 30, 1832, the town of Marcy was formed from a part of Deerfield ; and by a law passed May 12, 1846, the town of Ava was formed from a part of Boon vUle. This completes the history of the formation of the twenty-seven towns constituting the County of Oneida, gi^ving her fair proportiims, which should never be marred by divi sions, or detractions from her territory. 14 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. CHAPTER II. ONEIDA COUNTY Is centrally located in the State of New York, and is bound ed north by Lewis County and a small corner of Oswego, east by Herkimer County, south by Otsego aud Madison Counties, and west by Madison and Oswego Counties. It is situated between 42 deg. 46 min. and 43 deg. 33 min. north latitude, and 1 deg. 05 min. and 1 deg. 55 min. west longitude from the city of New York. The surface of the county is peculiar. Although tho Erie Canal passes quite through it, on the long level which extends from Frankfort to Syracuse, and although the county lies lower than the country west from that city, still the water flows from the county east, west, north, and south. The Mohawk River is formed within its bounds. The East and West Branches, the Lansing Kill, and a number of smaller tributaries, rush together in the town of Western from the east, south, and north, and form the embryo river. Its course from Western to Rome is south-westerly, where it takes a south-easterly course until it leaves the county below Utica. After it leaves Rome, it receives from the north the Nine Mile Creek and several smaller streams, and from the south the Oriskany, Sauquoit, and smaller streams. The West Canada Creek, which for some distance washes the eastern boundary of -the county, receives the united waters of the Steuben and Cincinnatus Creeks, just belov/^ Trenton Falls, and soon after it passes through a part of II.J ONEIDA COUNTY. 15 Herkimer County, and empties into the Mohawk at Herkimer village. It is a fair presumption, that seven-eighths of the water of the Mohawk at this place, is drained from tho springs and surface of Oneida County. Wood Creek and Fish Creekj with their tributaries, drain four entire towns, and portions of five others, in th,e north west section of the county, and after uniting their waters for a short distance, empty into the east end of the Oneida Lake. The Oneida Creek, whieh forms the western boun dary of the county, opposite the^ towns of Vernon and Verona receives the Skenandoa Creek, a stream that rises in the western p^rt of Augusta, runs south a short distance, then cast, and shortly takes a northerly and north-westerly course, passing through Vernon until it faUs into the former stream near the north-west corner of Vernon, and south-west corner of Verona. The town of Sangerfield, in the south-west corner of tho county, although one part is watered by the east branch of the Oriskany, sends a small stream into the Chenango River, one of the branches of the Susquehanna, ^-and the town of Bridgwater, in the south-east corner of the county, is drained by a head-water of the Unadilla, another tributary of the Susqueianna. The towns of Remsen and Boonville, in the north-east section of the county, contain not only head-waters of the Mohawk, but the Black River, which empties into Lake Ontario at Saeketts Harbor, passes through these towns, receiving numerous small ^treams in its passage. It will, therefore, be seen that the water from the north west part of the county reaches the Atlantic by the Oneida Lake and River, the Oswego River, Lake Ontario, the River and Gulf of St. Lawrence ; while that in the nortlir east part finds the same outlet by the Black River, Lake 16 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Ontario, etc. The water in the south-west corner reaches the same ocean by the Chenango and Susquehanna Rivers, and Chesapeake Bay ; while that in the south-east part finds the same egress by the Unadilla, — a head-water of the Susque hanna. And this while the great central portion of the county discharges its waters into the Atlantic by the Mo hawk and Hudson Rivers. Geology. — Few counties in the State present as great a variety of geological formations. The primary System is found in the north-east part of the county, bordering on thS Black River. At this point, granite , Black River and Trenton limestone are its compo nents. Bordering on these are the Utica slate and the Hud son River group of shales and sand-stone. The Oneida slate, seen in almost every section of the county, next follows ; and this is succeeded by the Clinton and Lockport groups of limestone, rich in fossils, and the Onondaga salt group, here mainly made up of red and green shales. The Oriskany sand-stone is found in many of the valleys of those streams in the south part of the county which run in a northerly direction. The MarceUus shales appear at a few isolated points in quite the south part of the county ; as also is the HamUton group of limestone. Mi-nerals. — The county is rich in iron ore. It is inex haustible in the towns of Kirkland, Westmoreland, and Verona. Peat and marl are found in many localities. The principal mineral springs are noticed in the towns in which they are situated. Elections.— The first town meeting held in the district (town) of Whitestown, was convened at the house of Capt, Daniel C. White, in said district, on Tuesday, the 7th day of n.] ONEIDA COUNTY. ' 17 AprU, 1789, "agreeable to warning," and "it being more convenient," the meeting adjourned to the barn of Hugh White, Esq., at which time and place they "proceeded as fol loweth : 1st chose Col. Jedediah Sanger, Supervisor ; 2d chose EUjah Blodget, Town Clerk ; 3d chose Amos Wetmore, First Assessor ; 4th chose James Bronson, Second Assessor ; Sth chose Ephraim Blackmer, Third Assessor ; 6th chose OUvfer CoUins, CoUector ; 7th chose Hugh "Wliite, Esq., and Capt. Moses Foot, Poor Masters; Sth chose George DooUttle, Jedediah Sanger, and Ephraim Blackmer, Commissioners of Highways; 9th chose Jedediah Phelps, Joseph Sowle, Salmon Butler, Amos KeUogg, Nehemiah Jones, and Alex ander Parkman, Constables ; lOth chose Maj, GUbert Willett, Amos Ives, Ebenezer Butler, Jr., Alexander Parkman, Jo seph Jones, Joseph Jennings, Overseers of Roads ; 1 Ith chose Lemuel Levenworth, Rice Hawley, Lemuel Cook, Seth Ranney, Barnabas Pond, Fence Viewers ; 12th chose Bben- ezer Butler, Jr., Daniel C. White, Pound Keepers; 13th voted to let swine run at large, 'yoaked and ringed;' 14th voted that the Supervisor appoint the place for holding the next annual town meeting. Then said meeting be dis solved." The second town meeting in Whitestown was held at the bam of Capt. Needham Maynard, in said town, April 6, 1790. "The foUowing persons were elected: — Major WiUiam Cdbrath, Supervisor ; EUjah Blodget, Town Clerk ; Joshua Morse, Capt. Daniel C. White, Lieut Isaac Jones, Col. Jedediah Sanger, Fuozel FeUows, Assessors; OUver CoUins, CoUector ; Capt. Amos Wetmore, Capt. James Casaety, Overseers of Poor ; Capt Moses Foot, James Dean, Esq., George DooUttle, Commissioners of Highways ; Samuel Ensign,- BUl Smith, Rufus Blodget, Solomon KeUogg, Joseph Jones, Constables; SUas Phelps, Samuel Laird, Raphael 2 J 8 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. Porter, Samuel Wells, Samuel' Winch, Ashbel Beach, Amok MUler Wm. Satchel, Darias Sayles, Jedediah Phelps, Over seers of' Highways ; John Tillotson, John Barsley, George Langford, Aaron Kellogg, Fence Viewers ; Lemuel Leven- worth, Barnabas Pond, Pound Keepers. " Voted to re-consider the whole votes that have been received as null and void, when- the Inspectors adjourned the meeting till to-morrow morning at 1 0 o'clock. Wednes day morning at 10 o'clock, April 7, 1790, met according tn adjournment. Chose, 1st, Jedediah Sanger, Supervisor ; 2d, Ashbel Beach, Town Clerk ; 3d^ Joshua Morse, Capt. Dan iel C. White, Lieut. Isaac Jones, Ensign John Tillotson, and Ebenezer Wright, Assessors ; 4th, Oliver Collins, Col lector ; Capt. Amos Wetmore and James Bronson, Overseers of Poor; James Dean, George DooUttle^ John Tillotson. Commissioners of Highways ; Samuel Ensign, Bill Smith, John Bullen, Hezekiah Rice, Joseph Jones, Nathaniel Townsend, Constables; SUas Phelps, Samuel Laird, John Young, Joseph Farewell, Samuel Wells, Samuel Winch. Jason Parker, Ashbel Beach, William Clarey, Amok MUler, Seth Steel, William Satchel, Overseers of Highways ; John Barsley, Lemuel Levenworth, Barnabas Pond, Pound Keepers. " Montgomery County, ss. :- — This certifies that the free holders, and other inhabitants of Whitestown, being met in said town for the purpose of choosing Town Officers, on Tuesday, the 6th day of April, 1790, did- on said day collect fifty votes for Maj. William Colbrath, and thirty-four votes for Col. Jedediah Sanger, for Supervisor, and WiUiam Col brath was declared to be Supervisor. Then proceeded tc the election of other officers, but many people being deprived of the privilege of voting for Supervisor, etc., moved to have the proceedings ofthe day made nitll and void, whieh passed in II.J . ONEIDA COUNTY. 19 the affirmative. The meeting being then adjourned to Wed nesday, the 7th inst., at 10 o'clock in the moming, at this place. Wednesday, 10 o'clock in the morning, met according to adjournment, and the poll list being opened and kept open till about five o'clock in the afternoon, at whieh time the poll Ust was closed, and upon canvassing the same, found that Jedediah Sanger -was unanimously elected Supervisor, with the number of 1 19 votes, which choice was pubUcly declared in said meeting, and that he hath produced a certificate from Hugh WRite, Esq., that he has taken the oath of office. " Attest for Elijah Blodget, Town Clerk. '¦ Attest for Ashbel Beach, Town Clerk." In this " our day and generation" proceedings like these would be considered very singular. They are not given because they possess very much interest to the public, so far as the offices or candidates are concerned ; but they have been transcribed to show the spirit of the times, and to show the manner in which the people, in the early settlement of this country, transacted their business in their town meet ings. Some of the results of this double election are decid edly uniqtee. The defeated candidate for Supervisor of the first day, was elected unanimously on the second ; but to place the matter beyond doubt, the two Town Clerks sign his certificate of election. Most of the candidates, as well as voters, were natives of New England, and it was of old in the New England town meetings where the people learned that they possessed the rights and abilities of freemen. The student of history soon learns that the attempt to abridge the rights of the New Englanders when assembled in town meeting, was a promi nent cause of the Revolution ; and also that those town meetings were powerful means in gaining our independence. Most of the actors in that town meeting had fought for liberty 20 AJWALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. in the Revolution, and we see with what tenacity they clung to their miUtary titles. Many of those then elected to petty offices in the back woods town of "Wlutestown, — a town, however, then larger in territory than some of the kingdoms of Etirope, — after wards became men of distinction, and arose to some of the most honorable places under our Govemment Their history would fill a large volume. Messrs. Dean, "Wlute, Sanger, and Maynard, were Judges of the County ; Mr. Colbrath was Sheriff of Herkimer and Oneida Counties,* Messrs. Collins and DooUttle were Generals in the MUitia, and the first as such, served his country in the war of 1812 ; Messrs. Foot, Cassety, Isaac Jones, Joseph Jones, Wetmore, Leven worth, Phelps, and others, were for many years Justices of the Peace ; Isaac Jones the first Supervisor of Westmore land ; and several others became distinguished in their various avocations and positions in Ufe. The first general election held in the town of Whitestown, was opened at the Cayuga Ferry (Bridge), thence adjourned to Moorehouse's Tavem in ManUus, thence to Fort Stanwix, and closed at "Wbitesboro. In 1791, at the town meeting in Whitestown, Jedediah Sanger was elected Supervisor, Ashbel Beach Town Clerk, Ebenezer Butler (afterwards of Pompey) CoUector, James Wadsworth of Geneseo, Trueworthy Cook of Pompey, Jere miah Gould of Salina, and several others, Overseers of Highways. Courts, etc. — The first Gourt of Record held within the present Umits of the county, was a term of the Herkimer Common Pleas and General Sessions, at "the Meeting House in the town of Whitestown," on the third Tuesday in Jan., 1794. Present^— Henry Staring, Judge, and Jedediah San- II.J ONEIDA COUNTY. 21 ger and Amos Wetmore, Justices. In the list of Assistant Justices and Justices of the Peace found in the minutes of this term, are the following names of those within our present territory, viz. : — Hugh White, Judge Sanger, A, Wetmore, Alex, Parkman, Ephraim Blackmer, Moses Foot, Edw. Paine, Seth Phelps, David' Ostrom, Needham Maynard, Eliznr Moseley, Samuel Sizer, William Fanning, Ebenezer Wright, and Jedediah Phelps. Among the Constables named are Uriah Seymour, Simeon Pool, and Samuel En sign, of Whitestown ; Jesse Curtiss, Nathan Marsh, Amos Dutton, Samuel Branch, John Finch, and Ezekiel Goodrich, of Paris ; Joseph Jones of Westmoreland ; and Samuel Dickinson, Edw. S. Salisbury, Jasper French, and Benjamin Gifford, of Steuben. Grand Jury — Wm. Stone, Foreman ; Archibald Beach, Jared Chittenden, Waitgtill Dickinson, Matthias Halbert, Nehemiah Pratt, Abijah Putnam, Na thaniel Gilbert, Alexander Enos, Coonrod Edee, Debold Dedrick, Joseph Jennings, R. Mills, Matthew Hubbell, Benjamin Ballou, Nathan Seward, Thomas Jones, Alvin Wheelock, James McNutt, Benjamin Tisdale, Justin Grif fith, Duty Lapham, William Colbrath, Sheriff; Jonas Piatt, Clerk. Joseph Strong was admitted as an Attorney and Counsellor, and took the oaths of office. Eight men were convicted of assault and battery, and fined from sixteen shillings to three pounds each. Five civil causes were tried, two of which were in ejectment, viz, : — James Jackson ex dem. Wm. Cunningham, Jr., vs. Samuel Dexter, tenant, in which the defendant obtained a verdict; and James Jack son ez dem. Jacob Folts vs. Wm, Dygert, Sen., tenant, in which the verdict was for the plaintiff, Mr, Tracy in his lectures states that this term of the Herkimer Common Pleas was held in Judge Sanger's barn, and in the preceding October. A half burnt record in the 22 ANNALS OF ONEID.A COUNTY. [CHAP. Herkimer County Clerk's Office shows that the above state ment, as to time, is correct ; and as there was no meeting house at that time in the town of Whitestown other than the one in New Hartford (and that in quite an unfinished state), this, with other evidence obtained, is conclusive that the term was held in the New Hartford meeting house. The law authorizing the term provided that the Herkimer County Courts should be held alternately at Herkimer and Whites- town. New Hartford was then in Whitestown, and as Judge -:S anger was never "found napping'' when any thing for the benefit of his village was at stake, he exerted himself suc cessfully with Judge Staring and a majority of the bench, and the court was appointed at New Hartford. This term, however, was the only one held in that village, for Whites- boro ever afterwards succeeded in getting it at that place. An anecdote of this first court is thus told by Mr. Tracy : •' A gentleman who attended the court as a spectator, in formed me that the day was one of those cold ' January days frequent in our climate,' and that in the afternoon, and when it was nearly night, in order to comfort themselves in their by no means very well appointed court room, and to keep the blood at a temperature at whieh it would continue to circulate, some of the gentlemen of the bar had induced the Sheriff to procure, from a neighboring inn, a jug of spirits. This, iJ; must be remembered, was before the inven tion of temperance societies. Upon the jug's appearing in court, it was passed around the bar table, and each of the learned counsellors in his turn upraised the elegant vessel, and descanted into his mouth, by the simplest process imaginable, so much as he deemed a sufficient dose of the delicious fluid. WhUe the operation was going on, the dig nitaries of the bench, who were no doubt suffering quite as Hiiich as their brethren of the bar, had a little. consultation, H-] ONEIDA COUNTY. iS when the first Judge announced to the audience that the court saw no reason why they should continue to hold open any longer, and freeze to death, and desired the crier forth with to adjourn the court Before, however, this functionary could commence witii a single ' Hear ye,' Colond -Colbrath jumped up, catching, as he rose, the jug from the lawyer who was complimenting its contents, and holding it up towards the bench, hastily ejaculated: -Oh, no, no, no. Judge, — tlon't adjourn yet ; take a Uttie gin, Judge ; that wUl keep JOU warm; tant time to adjourn yet;' and suiting the action to the word, he handed his honor the jug. It appeared there rras force in the Sheriff's advice, for the order to adjourn was revoked, and the business went on." Like terms of the court were doubtless held in the towa of WMtestowa on the third Tuesday in January. 1795-6—7. The records in the Clerk's Office of Herkimer County were destroyed by fire in 1804, and it is impossible now to leam particulars of otiier terms of the courts affecting the inhabitants of Whitestown, From a scrap discovered in our Clerks Office, it seenis that at a term of the General Sessions held at the chu»^ in Herkimer on the third Tuesday in January. 1792, Hugh "White, Jedediah Sanger, and Moses Foot, were fined one pound fourteen shillings each for non- attendance as Justices ; and John AUen, Lemuel Bradley, and Smith MiUer, were fined one pound four shillings each for like default as petit jurors. Upon the orgaidzation of Oneida County in 1798, the foUowing persons were commissioned to " keep the peace.^ viz.: — Judges — Jedediah Sanger, Hugh "White, James Dean, David Ostrom, George Huntington. .Assistant Jwstioes — Amos Wetmore, Thomas Cassety, Garret Boon, Adrian Fr. Van der Kemp, Eliznr Moseley, Henry McNeil, Peter Colt. .Needham Maynard. -Justice cf Peace — >J.ames S. Kip, 24 ANNALS OF CNEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP, James Steel, Matthias Hurlburt, James Sheldon, Jared Chittenden, Joseph Jennings, Reuben Long, Ithamar Coe, Jesse Curtiss, Kirtland Griffin, Wm, Blount, James Kinney, Ephraim Waldo, Thomas Converse, Joseph Jones, Daniel Chapman, Ebenezer R, Hawley, Abram Camp, Joshua Hathaway, Jesse Pearce, Matthew Brown, Jr,, Daniel W. Knight, Samuel Sizer, Ebenezer Weeks, Wm. Olney, Henry Wager, John Hall, Isaac Alden, Joseph Strickland, Samuel Royce, John W, Bloomfield, Benjamin Wright, Luke Fishery Jonathan Collins, John Storrs, Pascal C. I. De Angelis, Stephen Moulton, Abel French, Daniel J. Curtiss, Samuel How, Eozel Fellows, Rudolph Gillier, Medad Curtiss, John Townsend, Abiel Lindsley, G. Camp, Alexander Coventry, Joel Bristol, The first Circuit Court in this county was held on the second Tuesday of September, 1798, at "the School House near Fort Stanwix," by Hon, John Lansing, Jr., Chief Jus tice. The following persons composed the Jury upon the trial of the first civil cause, viz. : — Jotham Warden, Ben jamin Case, Allen Risley, Ithiel Hubbard, Caleb Smith, Jr., Phineas Kellogg, Andrew Warner, Comfort Lee, George Stewart, Enoch Higby, Elias MerriU, and Peter Sloan. There were but four other causes upon the calendar. Until 1802 the circuits were held at the same place, and subse quently, alternately with Whitestown. Prior to 1818 but one term was held in a year. The first Court of Oyer and Terminer in this county was held at " the School House near Fort Stanwix," on the 5th day of June, 1798. Present — Hon. James Kent, Justice of Supreme Court; George Huntington, Judge of Common Pleas ; and Thomas Cassety and Elizur Morseley, Assistant Justices. The following persons were sworn as the Grand Jury, viz. : — Ebenezer Wright, Foreman; Matthew Brown^ II.J ONEIDA COUNTY. 25 Jr,, John White, Andrew Clark, Hugh White, Jr., Aaron Roberts, Ezra Paine, Samuel Wells, Timothy Pond, Michael Frost, Jesse Woodruff, Ozias Marvin, John E. Howard, Stephen Eldridge, and Joshua Wills. Stephen Ford and Thomas Converse were fined $5 eaoh for non-attendance. The Grand Jury found no bills of indictment, and but one criminal trial took place, whieh was that of Sylvia Wood for murder; but the particulars of her conviction will be given in another place. At the next Oyer and Terminer, on the second Tuesday in September, 1798, the Grand Jury brought in but one bill. In that case the prisoner plead guilty to the charge of steal ing a yoke of oxen, and was sentenced to the State's Prison for three years. No indictments were found, and no trials were had at the term of 1799. At the term for 1800 there was hut one trial, and that was for wespassing upon Indian lands. The prisoner was Major Watson, " a subject of the King of Great Britain," and he was charged with occupying and trespassing upon certain lands "in the township of Oswegatchie (now Ogdensburgh), lying in said County of Oneida," he claiming to hold them under title from the Oswegatchie Indians, contrary to the statute, etc. At the term for 1801 three trials took place: one for murder, in which the prisoner, George Peters, an Indian, was convicted ; one for forgery, in which the prisoner was convicted and sentenced to the State's Prison for life ; and one for riot, in which two defendants were convicted, and a fine of one hun dred dollars imposed upon one, and ten dollars upon the other. The first term of the Oneida Common' Pleas and General Sessions of the Peace, was held at the School House near Fort Stanwix, on the third Tuesday in May, 1798. Present — Hon, Jedediah Sanger, First Judge; George Huntington 26 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [CIIAP. ,i,nd David Ostrom, Judges. A rule was entered that aU Attorneys and Counsellors who had been admitted as such to the Herkimer Common Pleas, be admitted to practice in this court upon taking the oaths of office, and Thomas R. Gold, Joseph Kirkland, Arthur Breese, Erastus Clark, Joshua Hathaway, Joab Griswold, Nathan WiUiams, Francis A. Bloodgood, Jonas Piatt, Rufus Easton, and Medad Cur tiss, were admitted accordingly. The following persons composed the Grand Jury,,viz. : — Loan Dewey, of Whitestown, Forem-an, Gershom Waldo, Jobn Barnard, Ebenezer Wright, Jr., Amos Noyce, Cyrus Fellows, of Rome ; Abraham Ogden, Levi Butterfield, of Floyd ; Alpheus Wheelock, Jonathan Swan, Reuben Beck with, of Western ; Stephen Reed, Jacob T. Smith, of Tren ton ; Gurdon Burchard, Philo White, William Smith, of Whitestown ; Richard Whitney, Josiah Whitney, Stephen Barret, of Paris ; Shadrach Smith, William Fanning, Caleb Willis, of Deerfield ; Josiah Stillman, John Baxter, of Westmoreland. The following persons were summoned as petit jurors, viz.: — Matthew Brown, Reuben Merrill, John Hewson, Frederick SeUeck, Abraham Handford, John Bristol, Stephen White, Asa Knap, William Walworth, Rufus Barnes, of Rome ; Ephraim Robbins, Timothy Bronson, Josiah Woodruff, Stephen Cummings, of Floyd; Ezekiel Oleveland, Daniel Spinning, Luther Miller, Richard Salis bury, David Hicks, John Hawkins, Ichabod Brown, Daniel Eames, of Western; Isaac Chamberlain,' Joseph Martin, Allen Pierce, Garret Becker, of Trenton ; Aaron Clark, Arnold Wells, Barnabas Brooks, Zebediah Tuttle, John Hobby, William Brown, of Whitestown; Simon Hubbard, Abiel Simmons, Luther Richards, Elijah Dresser, Samuel Nickels, Zebediah Plank, of Paris ; Hazard Shearman, John n.J ONEIDA COUNTY. 27 Weber, Zadok Warren, George Damewood, John Dame- wood, John Reeves, of Deerfield; Alexander Dorchester, Nathaniel Townsend, Benjamin Blackman, Joshua Douglass, of Westmoreland. But one bill of indictment was found, and that for assault and battery, to which the defendant plead guilty, and was fined five dollars, which was ordered to be paid to prosecutor and witnesses. Messrs. Gold, Kirkland, Breese, Clark, WUliams, and Piatt were appointed a committee to report a system of rules for the court, and at May term, 1799, they reported twenty-two rules, whieh were adopted. But five civil cases were upon the calendar, in all of which judgments were taken by confession. The first civil cause tried in this court was tried at the September term, 1798. Hon. Hugh White took his seat upon the bench at the last-mentioned term, and Hon. James Dean took his seat in December term, 1799. The County Courts previous to May, 1802, were held at the " School House near Fort Stanwix." The jail at Whitestown having been completed, as appears by a Report of Sherifl' Brodhead to the Court at December term, 1801, May term of 1802 was held " at the School House near the jail in Whitestown.'' Present — Jedediah Sanger, First Judge; David Ostrom, James Dean, Hugh White, Thomas Hart, and Henry Coffeen, Judges ; and Amos Wetmore, Needham Maynard, and Jo seph Jennings, Assistant Justices. During the year 1802 this court was held at Whitestown, and subsequently alter nately at Rome and Whitestown. The terms were held upon the third Tuesday in May, first Tuesday in September, and last Tuesday in December. At the September Sessions for 1803, the Grand Jury found bills of indictment against Hon, Thomas Hart, of 28 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. Paris, David Ostrom and Needham Maynard, of Whitestown, Nathan Sage, of Redfield, James Dean, of Westmoreland, and Henry Coffeen, of Watertown, Judges of Oneida County, for neglecting to attend that term. It is presumed this had the desired effect, for their names generaUy appear in the minutes of succeeding terms, and noL press, were subse quently entered to the indictments. JUDGES OF COMMON PLEAS AND COUNTY COURTS. The following list of Judges appointed for this eounty since its organization, was politely furnished by Hon. Chris topher Morgan, Secretary of State. 1798, March 22. Jedediah Sanger, of Whitestown, First Judge, Hugh White and David Ostrom, of Whitestown, James Dean, of Westmoreland, and George Huntington, of Rome, Judges, 1801, January 28. SUas Stone, of Lowville, Judge. 1801, August 2'l. Messrs. Sanger, White, Dean, Ostrom, and Huntington, re-appointed, with Thomas Hart additiopal. 1802, March 13. Nathan Sage and Henry Coffeen, of Redfield. 1803, March 31. Needham Maynard, 1804, April 3, Chauncey Gridley. 1804, July 3. Messrs. Sanger, Dean, Ostrom, Hunting ton, Sage, Coffeen, Maynard, and Gridley, re-appointed. 1805, Feb. 15. Messrs. Sanger, Dean, Sage, Maynard, Ostrom, Coffeen, and Gridley, re-appointed ; and March 25, Samuel Dill ; and April 8, Apollos Cooper additional. 1808, March 22. Messrs. Sanger, Dean, Gridley, Sagc^ il] ONEIDA COUNTY. 29 DiU, Cooper, re-appointed, and Joseph Jennings and Jarvis Pike additional. 1810, March 5. Morris S. MUler, First Judge, Jedediah Sanger, Henry McNiel of Paris, Abram Camp of Whites- town, and Timothy W. Wood. 1813, February 23. Moris Sj MUler, James Dean, David Ostrom, Henry McNiel, George Brayton, Richard Sanger, Jesse Curtiss, GJerrit G. Lansing, Benjamin Wright, John Storrs, Peter Pratt 1814, AprU 5. Messrs. MiUer, Dean, Ostrom, McNiel, Curtiss, Lan^ng, Wright, Storrs, and Pratt, re-appointed ; and Levi Carpenter, Jr., and Frederick Stanley, additional 1815, April 15. M. S. MiUer, Joseph Jennings. Solomon Wolcott, Prosper Rudd, Daniel Ashley, Peter Pratt. James S. Kip, Sherman Barnes, Thomas H. Hanulton, Asahel Curtiss, Charles WyUe, Joseph Grant 1818, AprU 24. Messrs. MUler, WyUe, Grant, and HamU ton, with Ezekiel Bacon additional. 1821, March 21. Messrs. MiUer, Grant, and HamUton, with Truman Enos and Joshua Hathaway additional 1823, February 3. Messrs. MUler, Enos, Hathaway, and Grant, with Samuel Jones additional 1824, November 22. Samuel Beardsley, First Judge, in place of M. S. MUler, deceased. 1825, March 9. Henry E. Storrs, in place of Samuel Beardsley, who declined the appointment 1826, AprU 5, James Dean (son of former Judge Dean), in place of Truman Enos, who resigned npon his election to the State Senate. 1828, February 5. Messrs. Hathaway, Grant, and Jones, re-appointed. 1830, January 15. Chester Hayden, First Judge, and Israel Stoddard 30 ANNALS OF ONTIIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. 1831, AprU 8. Reuben Tower, of Sangerfield, in place of James Dean, whose term had expired. 1832, Febmary 10. Nathan Kimball, of Augusta, in place of Reuben Tower, resigned. 1833, Febmary 6. John P. Sherwood, of Vernon, and Arnon Comstock, of Western, in place of Messrs. Jones and Hathaway, whose terms had expired. 1835, January 23. Chester Hayden, of Utica, First Judge, and Israel Stoddard re-appointed. 1837, Febmary 21. Nathan Kimball re-appointed. 1838, February 2. Pomroy Jones, of Westmoreland, in place of J. P. Sherwood, resigned ; and March 9, Arnon Comstock re-appointed. 1840, February 2. Fortune C. White, of Whitestown. First Judge, vice ¦ Hayden ; and April 14, Seth B. Roberts. of 'Rome,.vi. 1816, Henry Huntington, Martin Hawley, David Ambler, Wheeler Barnes, Newton Marsh, 1817, Henry Huntington, Joseph Kirkland, Nathan Wil liaras, George Brayton, Theor Woodruff 1818. Ezekiel Bacon, George Huntington, Theor Wood ruff, Luther Guiteau, Senior, David P. Hoyt. , 1819. George Huntington, Henry McNiel, Janies Dean, Jr., Theophilus S. Morgan, John Storrs. 1820. George Huntington, Joseph Kirkland, Allen Fraser, AVilliam Root, Josiah Baeon. 1821. George Huntington, Greene C, Bronson, Israel Stoddard, Samuel Chandler, Peter Pratt, (Jonas Piatt, Henry Huntington, Ezekiel Bacon, Nathan Williams, Samuel S, Breese, Delegates to Constitutional Convention.) 1 822. Henry Wager, Thoinas H. Hamilton, James Lynch, Uri Doolittle, Samuel Wetmore. 1823. Henry Wager, Joseph Allen, Joseph Grant, Apollos (Jooper, John Ruger. 1824. Joseph Kirkland, Israel Stoddard, David Pierson, Samuel Woodworth, Broughton White. 1825. Theodore Sill, Laurens Hull, Aaron Barnes, Israel Stoddard, Russell Clark. 1526. Theodore Sill, Winthrop H. Chandler, Benjamin P, Johnson, John Billings, John Parker, 1827, Thomas E. Clark, Benjamin P. Johnson, Gardiner Avery, Eli Savage, Linus Parker. 1828. Reuben Bacon, Fortune C. White, Benjamin P. Johnson. Eli Savage, Reuben Tower. 1829. Eli Savage, Arnon Comstock, Linus Parker, Ithai Thompson, Elisha Pettibone. 1830. Arnon Comstock, David Moulton, Reuben Bettis, Riley Shepherd,- John F. Trowbridge. 1831, David Moulton, Daniel Twitchel, Lemuel Hough, Rutger B, Miller, Nathaniel Fitch. 1I:J ONEIDA COUNTY. 39 1832, Ichabod: C. Baker, Squire Utlej, David Wager, Levi Buckingham, John Dewey. 1833. Ithai Thompson, Hiram Shays, Israel S. Parker, Aaron Stafford, Pomroy Jones. 1834. Amos Woodworth, Merit Brooks, Dan P. Cadwell, David Wager, Riley Shepherd. 1835. Henry Graves, Jared C. Pettibone, John W, Hale, John Stryker, William Knight, 1836, Andrew S. Pond, Lester N. Fowler, John I, Cook, Levi Buckingham. 1837. Russell Fuller, Fortune C. White, James S. T. Stranahan, Henry Hearsey. 1838. Ward Hunt, Israel Stoddard, Jesse Armstrong, ^ ' Amasa S. Newberry. 1839. Charles A. Mann, John F. Trowbridge, Nelson Dawley, Anson Knibloe. 1840. Nathaniel Odell, Luke Hitchcock, Calvin Dawley, Joseph Halleck. 1841. Horatio Seymour, Dewitt C. Stephens, Ebenezer Bobbins, Ichabod C. Baker. 1842. J6hn H. Tower, Amos S. Fassett, David Murray, Dan P. Cadwell, 1843. Horatio Seymour, James Douglass, Richard Empy, Justus Childs. 1844. Horatio Seymour, Andrew Billings, Calvert Com stock, Merit Brooks, 1845. Benjamin P, Cooper, Chauncey C, Cook, Daniel G. Dorranee, Russell Fuller. 1846. John Dean, Nathan Burchard, Abel E, Chandler, Isaac Curry. (Charles P. Kirkland, Hervey Brayton, Ed- ' ward Huntington, Julius Candee, Delegates to the Constitu tional Convention.) 1847. Luke Smith, Warren Converse, Bloomfield J. Beach, Henry Wager. 40 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [chap. 1848. Oliver Prescott, Nehemiah N. Pierce, James M. Elwood, Chauncey Stevens. 1849. William J. Bacon, Ralph Mcintosh, Robert Frazier, Luther Leland. 1850. Joseph Benedict, Lorenzo Rouse, Lewis Rider, George Brayton. Michael Myers was the Member of Assembly from Her- Icimer County in 1792-3, and Jedediah Sanger in the years 1794-5, and in 1796-7 no one was returned. SHERIFFS AND COUNTY CLERKS, With the years of their _/frst appointment, or commencement ofterm of office under an election. Under the Constitution of 1777 Sheriflii were appointed annually, and under that of 1821 they were electei for three years. Clerks held their oiBce three years. sheriffs: — 1798. William Colbrath. ¦ 1799. Elizur Moseley. 1800. Charles C. Brodhead. 1804. James S. Kip. 1807. Benajah Merrill. 1808. James S. Kip. 1810. Benajah Merrill. 1811. James S. Kip, 1815, Apollos Cooper. 1819. John B. Pease, 1821, John E. Hinman. 1823. Johu E. Hinman (elected). lS2r,. Da^id Pierson 1829. JohnE. Hmman. l.'?32. Samuel M. Mott. 1835. Erastus Willard. 18-38. Lyman Curtiss. 1841. David Moulton 1842, Dec, 24. Theodore S. Fax- ton, app'd by Gov. Seward. 184-3, Jan. 13. Israel S. Parker, ¦ appointed by Gov. Bouck. 1844 Palmer V. KeUogg. 1847. Lester Barker. 18-50. John Pv. Jones. 1798. Jonas Piatt. 1799. Francis A. Bloodgood. 1802. Abram Camp. 1803. Francis A. Bloodgood (who held the office ten years) 1813. Abram Camp. 1815. Francis A. Bloodgood (again clerk for 6 years). 1821. Eliasaph Dorchester. 1823. Do. do. (electedl. 1826. John H. Ostrom. 1829. John H. Ostrom. 1832. George Brown. 1835. John D. Leland. 1 838. James Dean. 1841. P. Sheldon Eoot. 1844, Delos De Wolf. 1847. Patrick Mahon. 1850. Alexander Eae. II.J ONEIDA COUNTY. 41 William Colbrath was Sheriff of Herkimer County from its organization until Oneida County was organized, in 1798. Jonas Piatt was Clerk of Herkimer County from its organ ization until the organization of Oneida County, when he was appointed Clerk of the latter. Mr. Piatt resided in Whitestown, and this will doubtless account for a fact of considerable interest, and not very generally known; *. c, that the Records of Deeds and Mortgages recorded » in Herkimer County, from its organization (1791) to the organ ization of Oneida County (1798), are in the Clerk's ofice of Oneida County, at Utica, These records fill eight large volumes, and are evidence of conveyances and incumbrances affecting lands in the present Counties of Herkimer, Oneida, Madison, Onondaga, etc., including sales of " soldiers' rights" in the Military Tract, conveyances and powers of attorney from original patentees and their representatives, from In dians, ete. It was a fortunate circumstance that they were retained in this county, otherwise they would have been destroyed when the Clerk's OfiBce of Herkimer County was burned in 1804. DISTRICT ATTORNEYS AYD SURROGATES, With tlie year of their first appointment, or of commencement of term of office by election. DISTRICT attorneys: — surrogates: — 1798. Thomas E. Gold. 1798. Arthur Breese. 1801. Nathan Williams. 1808. Joshua Hathaway.- 1813. Joseph Kirkland. 1813. Erastus Clark. 1816. Thomas H. Hubbard. 1815. Joshua Hathaway. 1818. Nathan Williams. 1819. Greene C. Bronson. 1821. Samuel Beardsley. 1821. Joshua Hathaway. 1826. Hiram Denio. 1827. Henry A. Foster. ia34. Ichabod C , Baker, 1831. Alanson Bennett. 1841. Timothy Jenkins. 1835. Henry A. Foster. 1845. Calvert Comstock. 1837. John Stryker. imo. Eoscoe Conkling, appt'd by Governor. Samuel B. Garvin. 1847. Othniel S, Williams 1851. ' , 42 ANN.VLS of ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. capital TRIALS AND CONVICTIONS. Oneida Oyer and Terminer, held at the School House near Fort Stanwix, on the 5th day of June, 1798. Present — Hon. James Kent, Judge of the Supreme Court; Geo. Huntington, Judge of Oneida County; Thomas Cassety and Elizur Moseley, Assistant Justices. The People "J vs. I Sylvia Wood, alias [ Thos, R. Gold, Esq., Assistant " Sylvia Brown. J Attorney General. The prisoner had been indicted at the May term of the Oneida General Sessions, 1798. The charge was, that the prisoner had, on the 29th of April, 1798, murdered her hus band, Major Wood, in the town of Augusta, by shooting him with a gun charged with shot. The husband died the next day ; but previous to his death, his deposition, with those of the wife and Letty Forbes, was taken by Thomas Cassety, Esq., a Justice of the Peace, by which it appears that the wife was intoxicated, (she and her liuisband having attended an election on that day,) and while her husband was attempting to restrain her, she seized a gun and inflicted the fatal wound. Samuel Dill, Moses B. El dridge, Silas Perkins, Reuben Reynolds, Job Babcock, Jeremiah Stevens, Walter Hyde, John Wright, Wm. JafT, Pbile Hizer, Rowland Potter, and Nahum Morse, were em panelled as jury for the prisoner's trial. Thomas Cassety, Joseph Letty, Polly Forbes, and Timothy Pond, were witnesses for the people ; and William Stutely and Ichabod Staftbrd for the prisoner. The jury found the prisoner guilty, and she was sentenced to be hung on the 29th of June (inst), between 10 A. M. and 2 P. M., and that her H.J ONEIDA COUNTY. 43 body be delivered to Dr, Amos G, Hull for dissection. Upon the morning of the day appointed for her execution, she was found dead in her cell in Herkimer jail, having lianged herself with the expectation that she could thus evade the whole of the sentence. In this, however, she was mis taken, for science had its subject. Oneida Oyer and Terminer, at the School House near Fort Stanwix, on the 16th of June, 1801. Present — Hon. Jaines Kent, Judge of the Suprenie Court ; Hon. Jedediah Sanger and David Ostrom, County Judges ; and Amos Wetmore and Peter Colt, Esqrs., Assistant Justices. The People ^ vs. ^ Thos. R. Gold, Esq., Assistant George Peters. ) Attorney General. The prisoner was a Montauk Indian, born at Montauk Point, Long Island. The remnant of his nation, with rem nants of several other coast tribes of Indians, had formed a new tribe, significantly called the Brothertons, with which the prisoner resided. He was charged with killing his wife, Eunice Peters, at Rome, on the 24th day of February, 1800. An inquest was held by Coroner Bill Smith over the body <9f deceased, and the verdict was, that prisoner had murdered her by striking her upon the head with a club, or wooden poker. The following persons composed the jury upon his trial, viz.: — Lot Fuller, Grove Hulbert, Jotham Gaylord, Henry Crane, Loomis Kellogg, Ebenezer Markham, Peter Eastman, Nathaniel Montague, Nathan Hemingway, Truman Blackman, Abel Wilcox, and Joseph Phelps, who rendered a verdict of guilty, Peters was sentenced to be hung on the 28th day of August, 1801, and he was accordingly executed, under the direction of Sheriff Brodhead, upon the hill west of the village of Whitesboro, 44 ANNALS OF OKEIDA COL-STY. [CDAP. The Court made an order in this cause, directing seven dollars and fifty cents to be paid to Solomon Eich for • victualling Indian witnesses." Oneida Oyer and Tenniner, held at the Court House in Rome, June 12th, 1817, Present— Hrm Smith Thompson. Judge of the Supreme Court; and Morris S. Miller, James S. Kip, and Joshua Hathaway, County Judges. The People ^ rs. V Thomas H. Hubbard, Esq., District John TuhL ) Attorney. The indictment was found after a Coroner's Inquest had been held. The indictment charged that the prisoner mur dered Joseph Tuhi on the 1st of May, 1817, in the town of Paris, by inflicting a deep wound upon his head with an axe. The two TuhLs were cousins, and had been to Clinton attending a mUitia. muster, where, becoming intoxicated. they quarreUed abont a small sum borrowed by one from the other, and John formed the dedgu of killing Josepk They belonged to the Brotherton tribe of Indians. Upon the trial the prisoner was convicted, and was sentenced to be hung on the 25th day of July then next, between 10 A. M. and 2 P. 31. He was accordinjrly executed at the time appointed, by Apollos Cooper, Esq., then SheriE assisted by John B. Pease, Under Sheriff upon that part of the city of Utica now known as Com HUL Oneida Oyer and Tenniner, held at Whitestown, Decem ber 19th and 20th- 1817. Present— Hon. Jonas Piatt. Judge of the Supreme Court; and M. S. MUler, Joseph Jennings. Solomon Wolcott, and J. S. Kip, County Judges. II.J ONEIDA COUNTY, 45 The People, .vs. John Harris, John Denny, James O'Brien, David Linus, and Roswell T. Pratt T, H. Hubbard and N. Wil- > liams for People, Messrs, Gold & White for prisoners. The prisoners were indicted at the same term in which they were tried, and were charged with having, on the 19th of August, 1817, set fire to the jail in Rome, by which means one Elisha Green was suffocated to death. The prison ers (as well as Green) were at the time confined in jail for uifferent offences, and in that way attempted to escape, but before they could effect their purpose they were compelled to cry for help, and when extricated were all nearly dead. Green took no part in setting fire to the, building, and no intention to kill him was shown. The jury found the prisoners guilty of murder, and they were sentenced to be executed on the second Friday in February, 1818. The gallows was erected, coffins prepared, and a large concourse had collected to witness the execution ; but on the ptevious evening a reprieve had arrived from the Governor, changing their punishment to imprisonment for life. Harris, Linus, and O'Brien were in jail under a sentence to the State'.s Prison for three years, for grand larceny, Denny under an indictment for an assault with intent, etc., and Pjatt under an indictment for passing counterfeit money. Denny and Linus were Oneida Indians. Oneida Oyer and Terminer, held at the Aeadetny in Utica, Oct. 7, 1824, Present — Hon, Samuel R, Betts, Circuit Judge ; Joseph Grant and Samuel Jones, County Judges. The People ^ vs. > Samuel Beardsley, District Attorney, ' Irad Morse, ) 46 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [clIAP. The prisoner was indicted at the previous May term of tho General Sessions, for the murder of David Freeman, in the town of Rome, on the 9th of May, 1824, by shooting him with a gun charged with shot Freeman lived two days after being shot. Deceased was a lad about seventeen years ©f age, and the two were hunting on Sunday, one carrying the gun and the other a bottle of whiskey, when a drunken quarrel arose, and Morse seized the gun, and going off a short distance, turned and fired, lodging the charge in the lungs of the boy. The jury found the prisoner guilty, and he waa sentenced to be hung on the 3d day of December then next. His punish ment was, however, changed to imprisonment in the State's ...Prison for life, and it is understood that he died soon after at Auburn. Oneida Oyer and Terminer, held at i the Academy in Utica, on the Ilth of October, 1839. Present — Hon. Philo Gridley, Circuit Judge ; Nathan Kimball and Pomroy Jones, County Judges. The People ^ , vs. > Ichabod C. Baker, District Robert M Her, ) Attorney, The prisoner was indicted at the preceding June Sessions, for having murdered Barney Leddy, at the city of Utica, oa the 29 th day of April, 1839, MiUer resided near Water street, in Utica, and deceased was proved to have been at his house on tie evening of the murder, both being intoxicated. and having sent out for whiskey. The nest morning Leddy was found, stripped of his clothing, insensible, and'^nearfy motionless, lying upon the ground some thirty rods from Mil ler's house, he having received a violent blow upon his head. II.J ONEIDA COUNTY. 47 apparently given with a club. Upon search being made,' a part of Leddy's clothes were found buried under mud and water in the cellar of Miller's house, and the cinders and ashes of other articles in the fire-place, and bloody stains upon the floor. These facts taken together, unexplained, warranted the jury in finding the prisoner guilty of murder. He was sentenced to be executed on the second day of De cember then next. He was however respited by the Gov ernor for a few days, when he was hung, in the jail at Whites- town, under the direction of Sheriff Curtiss. Oneida Circuit Court, held at the Academy in Utica, from the 4th to the 12th of October, 1841. Present — Hon. Philo Gridley, Circuit Judge. The People i vs. > Hon. Willis Hall, Attorney Alexander McLeod. ) General. J. L. Wood, District Attorney, Niagara County, and T. Jenkins, District Attorney, Oneida County, for the People. Messrs. Gardner and Bradley, Attorneys, and Hon. Joshua A. Spencer, Counsel for prisoner. The prisoner was indicted at the February term of the Niagara County General Sessions, in the year 1841, for having, on the 30th day of December, 1837, crossed the Niagara River and burned the steamboat Caroline, then lying at the wharf at Schlosser, in the town and County of Niagara, in the State of New York, and at the same time murdering Amos Durfee. The facts of this case, as con nected with the rebellion and disturbances in Canada in the year 1837, have become a part ofthe history of the country, and need not be repeated here. The venue in this cause had been changed from Niagara to Oneida by an order of the Supreme Court. Thirty-three witnesses were sworn oh 48 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP, the part of the People, and fourteen for the defense, besides a large number residing in Canada sworn before commission ers, whose depositions were read upon the trial. The follow ing persons composed the Jury, viz,: — Charley 0, Curtis, Edmund Allen, John Mott, Elijah Brush, Ira Byington, William Carpenter, Isaiah Thurber, Peter Sleight, Asher Allen, Seymour Carrier, Ezeck Allen, and Volney Elliott Verdict — Not guilty. Such was the anxiety on the part . of the public to be present at the trial (numbers having come a great distance for that purpose), that the Sheriff had summoned a large force of constables and deputies for the purpose of preserving order, and by directions of the Judge the following order of entering and leaving the Court House was established, viz.: — 1. The Court 2. Members of the bar and reporters. 3. Prisoner, in charge of constables. 4. Jury. 5, Wit nesses. 6. Citizens, until seats "were filled, when the doors were to be closed. 7. Persons having business in Court. admitted upon special application to the Sheriff. • Oneida Oyer and Terminer, held at the Academy in Utica, September 16, 1847. Present — Hon. Philo Gridley, Justice of the Supreme Court ; P. Sheldon Root, County Judge ; Julius C. Thom and Caleb Steves, Justices of the Sessions. The People ^ Calvert Comstock, District Attorney. vs. \ J. A. Spencer and F. Kernan for Mary Runkle. ) prisoner. The prisoner was indicted in the Recorder's Court of Utica, at the August term, 1847, and was charged with having murdered her husband, John Runkle, in the city- of Utica, on the StOth of August instant. n.] ONEIDA COUNTY. 49 The prisoner had seized deceased by the throat whUe he was asleep, in the middle of the night, with no light in the room, and with such a fiend-like grasp as to nearly sever his wind-pipe, and to cause immediate deatL She was of a slight form, but, contrary to appearances, was proven to have posseted great muscular power. Common rumor had charged her — but with how much justice it is impossible to deeide — with having destroyed two of her infant cMldren by drowning them together in awash-tub, — with murdering and robbing a pedlar, — with poisoning a son, who had arrived at manhood, and to whom she and her hnsband had conveyed some property to prevent its being taken by creditors, — and with many less heinous offenses. These are now, how ever, beyond the reach of human investigation and legal tribunals. After committing the erime, and having washed the body of deceased, put dean linen upon the body, and hidden that which was soUed with blood, and washed the blood from the floor, in the night in question, she caUed in several of her neighbors, stating that her husband had died in a fit ! WhUe the deed was being perpetrated, the unna tural monster, upon the pretext that her husband had been seised with a fit. called their daughter, about thirteen years of age, to her aid. directing her to hold his limbs in sueli a maimer that he could make little or no resistanca After a patient investigation, the jury found the prisoner guUty of murder, and she was sentenced to be hung on the 9th of November, 1S47, between 10 A. M. and 2 P, M. She was acsordingly executed, within the jail at Whitesboro. imder the direction of Sheriff Barker, having made no revelations as to the erime for whieh she was convicted, nor rehtting to her previous We. Other triais for murder have taken place in this countT, 4 50 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. ¦ but they have resulted in verdicts of acquittal, or in convic tions for the different grades of manslaughter, punishable by imprisonment in the State's Prison. COUNTY ORGANIZATIONS. The Oneida Bapt-ist Assodat-ion was organized September 27th, 1820. The churches of this denomination within the ,» county had, for a few of the first years of the present cen tury, belonged to the Otsego Association, and subsequently for a few years previous to the formation of this Association, to the Madison Association. It is somewhat difficult at the present time, from the annual minutes of this body, to give the increase of the denomination in the county, as at its formation quite a num ber of churches from Madison County 0|rganized with it ; stiU it can be approached with tolerable accuracy In 1823, there were fifteen churches in the county, (beside Boonville, which has ever belonged to the Black River- Association,) seven ordained ministers, and 1074 members. On the same territory in 1850, there were twenty-six churches, twenty-seven ordained ministers, (two of whom are missionaries in the East Indies.) and 2,529 members. This body has no ecclesiastical powers whatever. It is only advisory. The Preslyta-y of Oneida was organized by an act of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in the United States, at their meeting in, the month of May, 1802. Its territorial limits included all of the State west of the east lines of Herkimer and Otsego Counties. Its original mem bers were Rev. Messrs. Jedediah Chapman, John Lindsley, II.J ONEIDA COUNTY, 51 Bethuel Dodd, Samuel F. Snowden, Isaac Lewis, and Peter Fish. The churches which were connected with it soon after its organization were, in Oneida County, those of Whitesboro, Utica, New Hartford, and Trenton; in Ot sego County, those of Cooperstown, Cherry Valley, and Springfield ; in Herkimer County, that of Little Falls ; in Cayuga County, those of Washington, Romulus, Ovid, and Ulysses ; in Steuben County, that of Bath ; in Tioga, that at Painted Post ; in Ontario County, those of Geneva, Pal myra, Lyons, Sodus, and Caledonia. Many of these coun ties have had their lines so altered by divisions, that these churches do not now belong to the counties they then did. Subsequently, the limits of the Oneida Presbytery nar rowed down by the formation of other Presbyteries, so that it was 'confined principally to Oneida and Herkimer Coun- tiea The first meeting was held at Whitesboi;o, September 7th, 1802, In January, 1843, it consisted of thirty-one ministers, ai^d about thirty-five «hurches. At that time it was divided by the Synod of Utica, the new body taking the name of the Presbytery of Utica. In consequence of some dissatis faction, the two bodies were merged in the Presbytery of Utica at the next meeting of the Synod. The Presbytery of Utica, at the pre.sent time, consists of thirty-six ministers, and about thirty churches. The Synod of Utica was organized at Utica, September 15th, 1829, by order of the General Assembly of the Pres byterian Church, When organized, it was composed of the Presbyteries of Ogdensburg, Watertown, Oswego, Oneida, and Otsego, At this time it consists of the Watertown, Oswego, St. Lawrence, Utica, and Otsego Presbyteries. Its territory comprises the Counties of. Herkimer, Otsego, Oneida, Lewis, Oswego, Jefferson, and St. Lawrence, ,"52 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY, [clIAP. In the summer of 1850, the « Old Scbool" branch of the denomination organized a new body, by the name of the Presbytery of Mohawk. It is annexed to the Old School General Asssembly of the United States. The Episcopal Methodists have an Oneida Conference ; but it does not seem to be a county organization, for it com prises much territory out of the county, while the Black River Conference embraces nearly or quite the northern half of Oneida. The Oneida County Temperance Society, organized some years since, has performed well its part. It holds its annual meetings in the winter, and latterly it has had semi-annual meetings. Oneida County Agricidtiiral Society. — This Society holds a prominent place among the public institutions of the county. It was organized in 1841, an,d the first annual exhibition held in the autumn of that year, since whieh it has progressed steadily in usefulness and importance, until it now ranks among the best institutions of the kind in the Union. Ten exhibitions have been held under the direction of this Society in as many successive years, each one of which has exceeded its predecessor in the amount of receipts, and the number of farmers and others in attendance. The premiums, which were at first confined chiefly to farm stock and products, have beeif extended so as to embrace most articles of household and domestic manufacture, and a large number of mechanical articles. Its funds for membership have steadUy increased, and have for a few years past been augmented by making a small charge for admission to the show of domestic and fancy articles, until they amounted — II.J ONEIDA COUNTY. 53 including the State appropriation of $255 — in 1849 to about $1,000. In 1850 a new plan was adopted, the entire grounds (ten acres) for the exihibition enclosed with a high fence, at the expense of the citizens of Rome, and a charge for admission made to all who were not members of the Society. This arrangement brought into the Treasury about S 1,500, a balance of some $500 above expenses for the same year. The Society has now a balance in the treasury amount ing to near § 1,000. Many of the farmers and other citizens of the county have taken a deep interest in the success and management of this Society. In this brief notice it is impossible to do more than present the names of the Presidents for each year, and a complete list of the officers elected for the year 1851. President in 1841-2 — Pomroy Jones. " . 1843-4 — Benj. P. Johnson. 1845 — Elon Comstock. " 1846— Dolphus Skinner. " 1847-8— Ira S. Hitchcock. '• 1849— Henry Rhodes. '• 1850— Benj. N. Huntington. " 1851 — Plimeut Mattoon. Tice Presidents — Franklin A. Spencer, Ephraim Storrs. Executive Committee — Calvin Bishop, John Butterfield, Jonathan Talcott, Horace Dunbar, Henry Rhodes, Amasa S. Newberry, Oliver R. Babcock, Horace H. Eastman, Henry B. Bartlett, Horatio N. Carey. Treasurer — Roland S. Doty. Secretary — Levi T. Marshall. The exhibitions of the Society have never been held two successive years in the same town, the opinion having pre vailed that greatei' good could be accomplished by holding them in different parts of the county in alternate years. So large has been the attendance in the last two years, that it seems almost indispensable now to confine the show to a few of the larger towns, where only the great numbers who .04 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNT!-. [CHAP. attend can procure accomodations. Judging from the im provements already visible in the agriculture of the county, and the present flourishing condition of the society, it seems safe to predict for it a long and useful career. Political. — The two great and earliest political parties in the United .States had formed before the organization of Oneida County. The Democratic, with Jefferson at it- head, and the Federal, with HamUton as its leader. After the formation of the county in 1798, it was found to contain A Federal majority. Subsequent to the organiiation of .St. Lawrenee County in 1802. the Democratic party for two or three years was in the a-scendant. In 1805 the Counties of Jeffer.son and LewL= were taken from Oneida, which left it with a Federal majority of fi-om twelve to fifteen hundred. This was a powerful majority, when it is recdUected that at the time scarcely one half of the citizens were voter.?, as the old Con.=titution of the State contained that most aristocratic and odious provision, requiring a freehold qualification of ¥250 to entitle the citizen to the privUege of the elective franchi.-e. In the war of 1 6 12 the Federal party took strong ground, not only against the administration of Mr. Madison, vut gome of its movements were so anti-nationaL that they bordered on treason.' In 1814 the Hartford Convention, composed of delegates from the New England States, held its .secret session. At the time it was strongly suspected of hatching trea.son against the United States, and of giving aid and comfort to the enemy. The peace of 1815, however, entirely deprived the opposition of power for evil, if eril was aetuaUy intended. The party contrived to keep up its organization for three or four years, when it was found that the Hartford Convention was a miU-stone, sinking it too low for any reasonable hope of a resurrection. In 1619 was II.J ONEIDA COUNTY. 55 witnessed the disbanding of the Federal party, and the amalgamation of a large proportion of it with the Clinton- ians, a section that had seceded from the Democratic party. For a short season the Clintonians had the ascendancy in I the county, and in the eounty, as iu the State, although Mr. Clinton by reason of his personal popularity usually obtained a majority, yet the Democrats succeeded in the Legislature. In 1821 a Convention was called to amend the State Consti tution. In this body tho Clintonians in this county were represented by three delegates, and the Democrats by two. The Convention was decidedly Democratic, and the amended (institution which emanated from it, did away with the Council of Appointment, and the property qualification for suffrage, the two most obnoxious provisions of the old Con stitution. Mr. Clinton's death took place soon after the commencement of the Anti-Masonic excitement, and the formation of that party. Strong men joined- the Anti- Masonic party in the eounty ; yet Oneida never became so far " infected" as to once give a majority to that party. In 1834 the Anti-Masonic party disbanded, and the present Whig party raised on its ruins. The Democratic party maintained its position in the majority until within a few years, when, weakened by divisions, the Whig party has obtained the ascendaticy in the county, State, and Nation, The spring of 1851 has witnessed another political somerset in the county, the Supervisors elected standing eighteen Democrats to twelve Whigs. At the close of this political notice of the eounty, it may not be entirely uninteresting to the reader to have a short account of a political celebration of the " olden time,'' al though in the numbers who participated, it fell far short of modern political gatherings at the raising of log cabins, hickory poles, etc. 56 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. In September, 1801, the Democratic party having suc ceeded in electing Mr. Jefferson to the Presidency of the Union, and George Clinton to the gubernatorial chair of New York, the few of that party in Oneida County — barely sufficient to form a corporal's guard — determined to celebrate their victories by a public dinner. The day and place were appointed, of which public notice was given. The place was White's Tavern, in Whitesboro, then kept by the widow of Daniel C, White. For days the busy hum of preparation was heard. Pigs squeaked their final gasp, and gobblers strutted their last brief hour, to grace the ponderous table. A cannon, that for many a long year had graced thc^ parapets of Fort Stanwix, and poured forth its booming thunder on St Leger's beleaguering forces, was carted, tlic day preceding the dinner, through the intervening fens and morasses, to belch forth its joyous roar to each successive toast The day arrived. It was most propitious. No skulking clouds obstructed sol's morning rays. Early the guests by twos and threes hurried their way to the banquet. But on their arrival what consternation! "The cannon i.'; stolen," resounded from every mouth. Nought disheartened, another gun must be procured. It could be done in time, if man nor beast were spared. John B. Pease, trusty and true, was soon dispatched to relieve Fort Stanwix of another portion of its artiUery, John Gilpin's famous ride, com pared with his, was tame. Howe'er, a new disaster overtook him. When the return journey was but half performed, the vehicle gave out ! But the good Dutch Colonel, who lived where Oriskany's waters mingle with the Mohawk, kindly supplied another, and soon the smoking steeds stood panting at our hostess' door, and joyous cheers announce the quiclc arrival. Anon the guests, fourteen all told, are doing ample justice to the good things the lone hostess had prepared, and soon, like all things else, the feast is at an end. IlJ ONEIDA COUNTY,, 57 The cloth removed, the sparkling, mocking wine appears. The first of thirteen toasts is then announced. No cannon's roar responded. The gun is spiked ; or, to use the lines of the Federal bard for the occasion: "A rat-tail iile fell from the skies, And spiked the gun before their eyes." These Democrats were still in courage. A sturdy son of Vulcan, residing iu the same village, with sleeve uproUed, brawny arm, and ponderous sledge, cleared out the obstructed vent, and in due time nineteen discharges, told all within the sound, that thirteen regulars and half twelve volunteers hacj been drank. The ceremonies over, adieus exchanged, and ere the sun had sunk to rest beyond " Ontario's waters," all, all, had left for distant homes. The half is not told. Time sped its way, as all time does, and the printed weekly messenger, " The Whitestown Gazette and Cato's Patrol," was scattered wide, by j)Ost, among the people. It was a small sheet, perhaps a little more than seven by nine. Weekly news and advertisements, com pressed to smallest space, it had ; but the " Poet's corner " was filled to overflowing. 'Twas all about the Democratic celebration. Low and blackguardly in language, its only merit was its rhyme. Tt thus begau : " From Simonds down to Doctor Shaw, ' One great in physic, one in law." 'Twas said to have been the production of one who had spent long years in classic halls. Each of the fourteen Democrats came in by turns for a large share of personal abuse, if abuse it could be called, Capt Isaac Jones re ceived his full proportion, was termed " A would-be Justice living on the Genesee road," The sheet was read and laid 58 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. aside. Another week rolled round, and then another " Ga zette" came to its patrons. Canto II "of the same sort" came with it. 'Twas like its predecessor, only its low slang sought to be more abusive. A specimen is given. Doct Shaw's optics were of the largest, lightest kind. In speaking of the Doctor, the poet says : " With eyes like new-peeled onions,'' In those early days readers were so sparse, that one paper had to suffice for the whole county. Not then as now. Now, one party has its Observer, Democrat, and Sentinel; the other its Herald, Whig, and Citizen ; and temperance men their Teetotaller, besides religious. Then one paper had to cater for all its readers, and small patronage at that. There fore, he that was termed "the would-be Justice," in the same paper that contained the second "Canto," was heard, — 'twas all in prose, except one half the motto. It thus began : "For as the crackling of thorns under a pot, so is the laughter of a fool." " What sorry poems, what a wretched chime, . Do such mere poltroons jingle into rhyme." It was short, caustic, and severe. Opponents freely ad mitted that the Captain took the advantage. The article thus concluded : — " You say I am a'would-be Justice. God knows I want no office, but I am proud, infinitely proud, of being with a majority of three millions of freemen ; and let me say to you, that your production is as heartily despised by the candid of your own party as by mine.'' And so it was. Federalists were heard to say, " that the actors should have been ashamed to have interfered in the least, and ob structed the celebration. That if the Democrats wished to meet and partake of a public dinner, they had a perfect right to do so; that we had fought for liberty, and our II.J ONEIDA COUNTY, 59 citizens had the right, if they in no way disturbed the peace, to enjoy it." In conclusion, the little petty persecutions at Whitesboro, no doubt made scores of Democrats in the county. \ The foregoing is entirely from recollection. It is believed no copy of the papers are left in the county. The names of the fourteen individuals who participated in the celebration, were, — John B. Pease, Esq., and Hon. Rufus Easton, of Rome ; Maj. John Bellinger, Col. Nicholas Smith, Hon. Francis A. Bloodgood, James S. Kip, and Martin Dakin, Esquires, of Utica ; Capt Isaac Jones, Capt Samuel Collins, and Hon. Truman Enos, of Westmoreland ; John R. Todd, Esq., of Verona ; and Alexander Enos, Esq., Doct Jonathan Shaw, and Shadrach Smith, of Whitestown. The last-named was the blacksmith who cleared the spiking from the gun. Joseph Simonds, Esq., of Clinton, an Attor ney at that place, was to have been present and delivered an address, but was prevented by sickness. Coxe's Patent. — This is considered an appropriate place to notice this extensive Patent, extending across a portion of Rome, and quite across Westmoreland, Kirkland, and Paris, to the north line of Bridgwater. It was bounded on the west by the line of property, and extends the whole length of it By the survey of this Patent, the line of property is twenty-two miles and sixty-four chains in length. The Patent is bounded on the south by Bridgwater, on the east l)y Cosby's Manor, Bayar's, Morris', and Oriskany Patents, and north by Wood Creek. It contained 47,000 acres, and was a part of 100,000 acres granted by George III to William Coxe, Rebecca Coxe, John Tabor Kempe, and Grace his wife, descendants of Daniel Coxe, doctor of physic, on condition that said descendants execute a grant, release, 60 ANN.4.LS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. and surrender to the crown of all their right and tike, or pretended right and tike, to the Province of Carolana and Islands, as described in a certain original Patent to Sir Robert Heath. The Patent also prescribes that the said Grace Kempe certify her consent and acceptance, by sueh separate examination as, according to the laws of New York, will bind the inheritance of married women. It was granted without quit-rents for ten years. It was also made with the following reservation : — " Except and always reserved all mines of gold and silver, also all white or other sorts of pine trees, twenty-four inches in diameter twelve inches from tht: ground, fit for masts for the royal navy, " Said traet to form two townships : that lying north-west of tho Oriskany Creek to be Coxeborough, that to the south east of said creek to be Carolana, Each of paid townships to have two Assessors, one Treasurer, two Overseers ,of Highways, two Overseers of Poor, one Collector, and four Constables, to be elected on the first Tuesday 'of May in each year, by a majority of the freeholders. " Signed by Cadwallader Colden, at our Fort, in the City of New York, on the 30th dav of Mav, A, D, 1770." III.J ANNSVILLE. 61 CHAPTER III. ANNSVILLE. Geology. — The geology bf this town presents features peculiarly interesting, perhaps as much so as in any town iu the county. The indications are quite distinct, that por tions of this town were at some former period covered with the waters of three small lakes. The first, or lower one, was situated in the south-east corner ofthe town, and covered all that portion known as the Forks. This lake must have been about three miles in length from east to west, and two in width from north to south, covering an area of about six square miles. Its form was irregular, something in the shape of the human foot and leg, the toes to the north and the leg to the west Its inlets were the east and west branches of Fish Creek, or perhaps more properly Fish Creek and Ma;d River ; for the author finds that the names Mad River and West Branch are indiscriminately applied, by the inhabitants in the vicinity, to that branch of the stream. The outlet was at or near where Fish Creek now escapes from the valley. The barrier — feeble, to be sure — whieh confined this lake in the neigh borhood of the outlet, was composed mainly of sand, inter mixed here and there with small portions of elajr and gravel. If conjecture be allowable, this barrier was forced by the accumulation of water thrown against it by the giving away of the bajiks which confined the upper lakes, and then this 62 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. increased body of water forcing its way to the Oneida Lake. On the south, east, and west sides, the shores seem to have beeu composed of the same material as the barrier, as no rocks and very few stones were found ; but on the north side the rock formation commences, which extends north, east, and west, beyond the limits of the town. What was once the bottom of this lake, is now one of the finest agricul tural sections of the town or county. This alluvial bottom in some parts contains many small pebbles, mostly of the same kind as those in the north part of the town, brought down and worn smooth by the floods of centuries. Occa sionally granite bowlders are found, out of place to be sure, for there is no granite formation in the town, or nearer than the north-east part of Jefferson and the eastern part of Her kimer Counties. The water in thia lake in many places was probably one hundred feet in depth. The second lake of this chain was situated about three- fourths of a mile northerly from the first. In size it was smaller, and in form more regular, being semicircular, pro bably covering two square miles. What were its shores are entirely different in character from the first, the surface being composed of stone, gravel, and loam, while the lower stratum consisted of friable slate, alternated with a harder kind.. The slate is divided, by perpendicular and parallel seams, into small sections or blocks. Its inlet was the east branch of Fish Creek, and its outlet where the creek now runs, at its south-west corner. The channel here cut through the stone, gravel, and slate, is from fifteen to twenty rods in width, and in some places sixty feet in depth. Its bottom rested on the rock formation which underlays this section of the town. The alluvial soil now covering it, is rendered nearly untiUable by the quantity of stone brought from above by the water. Near the south-west corner there was III,J ANNSVILLE, 63 a bay, running three-fourths of a mile north-west The point formed by the bay and lake is composed mostly of con glomerate or pudding-stone, overlaid with sand. In one place sand-stone is in the process of formation. The cement of the sand-stone and conglomerate is probably lime, although lime is found nowhere else in the vicinity. In the basin of this lake and bay is now situated Taberg Village. Its sur face must have been at least fifty feet higher than the first. The third and last lake was situated about one mile nearly due north from the second. In size and character it nearly resembled the second, with the exception that the creek, in the long course of ages, has worn for itself a chan nel of fifty or sixty feet lower than the bottom of the lake. Its elevation above the second lake must have been at least one hundred feet. The water at its lower end might have been sixty feet in depth, but in the upper part quite shallow. An island arose nearly sixty feet from its surface. It was known to the early settlers as Walnut Hill, from the grove of white walnuts which covered a portion of its surface. An outlet, where at least a portion of its waters were discharged, can be traced from its north end into the valley of West Creek in the town of Lee. This stream, by a circuitous route of some ten miles, empties into Fish Creek one mile below the lower lake. The channel of the creek above this last lake, assumes the picturesque and sublime, beyond the power of descrip tion; and for three miles there are few places where its banks can be ascended or descended in safety. The sides of this chasm are walled up with rock, from eighty to three "hundred feet in height, and the spectator from the giddy height looks down into the tops of tall trees which have for centuries braved the ragings of the stream and storms. To him, full grown persons at the bottom apparently dwindle 01 .OfNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CUAP. to mere pigmies. His sensations become allied to fear, but he soon learns to look from his perilous position with com posure. To the spectator in the chasm, the forest trees at the top dwindle into mere shrubs. He looks with awe and wonder at the hoary crags and overhanging rocks above him. and his imagination is carried far back ag he beholds the effects of mighty causes which have been in operation for ages. Here the waters from the melting snows of a thou sand winters, and the rains of as many summers, falling in this extensive valley, have found a passage to the Oneida Lake, in their way overcoming every obstacle, removing every barrier. Around him the visitor sees, in wUd confu sion, the fragments left by this war of the elements, broken. worn, and rounded by the action of the hurried waters, and their violent contacts with each other. From the head of this branch of Fish Creek to the Forks, a distance of nearly forty miles, the current is very rapid, falling from thirty to seventy-five feet per mUe. Within the town of Annsville, and above the upper lake. the creek receives but two tributaries of any importance. Miller's Creek empties into it near the head of the uiir-er lake. It received its name from the first settler on its banks. It flows from the west, and its main features are t'ne same as those of Fish Creek, its channel being worn equally deep in the rock. Fall Brook empties into Fish Creek about three ixiVs above MiUer's Creek, and it also flows from the wes": It takes its narae from the faUs where it empties into the ere ;k Unlike MiUer's Creek, it has its channel upon the first layer of rocks until it falls into the main stream. This fall is divided into three separate falls : the upper of fourteen feet, the middle of twenly feet, and the lower of sixty feet. The channel of Fish Creek where it receives HI.] ANNSVILLE. 65 this stream, is abont one hundred and fifty feet in depth, and , the rocks have been worn back by the falls twenty-five rods. The bottom of this chasm has an area of about an acre in a triangular form, the base on Fish Creek and the apex at tho •falls. This is covered with the fragments of rocks, which once helped to fill up the chasm. Approaching from below, the visitor hears the roar, and meets a current of wind and spray some time before the falls are visible. A small stream is seen dashing and foaming at his feet, sometimes beneath the fragments of rocks, sometimes overleaping them. It seems, after so troublous a course, gladly to lose its identity in Fish Creek. As the visitant approaches nearer the falls, the almost perpendicular walls of rock, at least one hundred feet in height on either hand, become visible. The roar and .spray increase, when, after passing a few more fragments covered with foUage and wet with Spray, the falls are at once in view. Here a scene of sublimity and grandeur, little an ticipated, is before him. Directly in front, is the fall of sixty feet, and about twenty-five in width, falling into a deep foaming pool below. A current of air is created by the falling water sufficient to keep the leaves and tendrils of tho trees that overhang the chasm in constant motion. Above, he sees tho two upper i'alls plunging from one ledge of rocks to another, as if pre paring for their final leap. When the stream is low, much of the water is dissipated in spray, but when swollen by rain or melting snow, it forms a scene of grandeur and sublimity beyond the powers of description. Trenton Falls excepted, probably no place in the county possesses equal attractions to the lover of nature's wild magnificence. Standing, as the spectator does, in this frightful chasm, where the light and heat of summer but partially ever coraes, amid the fragments of rooks and the ruins of towering clifl's, he feels the vanity 66 ANNALS OF OWEIDA COUNTY. [ciIAF- of aU that is human, and is thus led from nature up to nature's God, and he can hardly leave without becoming a, better and wiser man. Tlip rock mentioned as underlaying this town, is a bluish- grey sand-stone. It is in layers of from six inches to two- feet in thickness, and is cut into square and angular blocks by seams. Good building stone to any amount can be quarried on the banks of the creek, but it is too hard to be cut. It is not known that any other rock of this kind is found in this part of the State, It grows harder after being quarried and exposed to the air. The rock is underlaid and overlaid with dark-colored friable slate. The strata are from three inches to five feet in thickness. It soon falls to pieces on being exposed to the action of the sun, rains, and frost. It is evidently what our State geologists term Pulaski shale. The conglomerate or pudding-stone found near Taberg,. has been already mentioned, as also the few bowlders of granite at the Forks. Beside these, it is not known that there is but one other kind of stone in the town, and that is com posed of organic and vegetable remains. Of this stone, a portion is found in bowlders, and in some places it is found in strata among the slate and sand-stone. Some of the sheUs in this rock are two and even fouT inches in diameter. There is a slight dip in all the rocks in this town to the south and west There has, as yet, been no minerals or ores discovered in this town, excepting bog iron, which is found in many places, but in small quantities. In most places the water has drained off, and left it to oxidize to an extent that ren ders it nearly worthless. WATER POWER, Probably no town in the county possesses as good and extensive water power as the town of Annsville. The prin- ¦m.J ANNSVILLE. 67 tiipal streams have been already mentioned, with the excep tion of the small one which empties into Pish Creek at Taberg, the water of which is sufficient for a blast furnace in the driest season. All the streams are very rapid. Fish Creek has a course of ten miles in this town, with a fall of from thirty to one hundred feet per mile. Indeed, so far as fall is concerned, it is believed its whole waters can be used ei-ery hundred rods in that distance. Its tributaries furnish almost as much power as the main stream. Although there is hardly one-twentieth of the water power occupied yet, there are now in operation two grist and flouring mills, twenty-one .saw mills, twelve shingle mUls, four lath mills, four turning lathes, two stave machines, one wool-carding, cloth-dressing. and manufacturing establishment, one . blast furnace, two cupola furnaces, and two tanneries. Besides these, there is other machinery in the process of erection. The blast furnace at Taberg requires more than a passing notice. In 1809 the Oneida Iron and Glass Manufacturing Company commenced operations where the furnace now stands. They gave it the name Taberg from that of cele brated ironworks in Europe. In 1811 it commenced its first blast, and has continued its operations from that time to the present with but occasional stoppages. For some years it was extensively engaged in the manufacture of hollow ware, and simUar articles. For a few years past, under a change of owners and direction, it has been exclusively used for the manufacture of pig iron. The castings of this fur nace have ever sustained the highest reputation for strength and durabiUty. Even now, the pig iron from this furnace suffers but little in comparison with the best Scotch pig, and for many uses it is even its superior. In the south-west part of the town there is an elevation known as Pond Hill, whieh receives its name from the pond situated upan it. It covers G8 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. an area of about six acres, and its altitude is about seventy- five feet higher than the country around it, and its depth is unknown. It has no visible inlet or outlet, and it must be kept up by springs below its surface. GEOGRAPHICAL DESCRIPTION. The town of Annsville is bounded on the east by the town of Lee, south by Rome and Vienna, west by Camden and Florence, and on the north by the line between Oneida and Lewis Counties. The general surface of the town is some what broken and uneven. Its general declination is to the south and east. Large swells, or ridges, running east and west, commence in the south, and rise higher and higher to the north line of the town. Between these rise and flow larger and smaller tributaries of Fish Creek. On the west^ em side there is a small section which sends its waters into the West Branch, or Mad River. ' SOIL AXD PRODUCTIONS. This town contains every variety of soil. The south eastern section is to a considerable extent clayey, with occa sional small sections of sand and gravel. The soil of this part is quite productive in all the grains and grasses of the county. The south-western section is more elevated, drier, more sandy, and stoney in some places, and is the best sec tion for grain, but probably not for grass. The north-east section is stoney and somewhat broken. The soil is strong, adapted to grain better than grass. The north-west section is better adapted to meadow and pasturage than the others, but is not as good for grain, excepting the kinds termed English grain. in.J ANNSVILLE. 69 By the census of 1845, the following list of the products. agricultural and other, is obtained : Barley - 41 acres 225 bushels. Peas 20 494 Beans . 24 124 Buckwheat 399 5,975 " Turnips 46 2,574 Potatoes - 306 15,733 •' Flax UX ' 1,530 pounds. Wheat 170 1,447 bushels. Corn 811 15,138 Rye 109 926 Oats 1,290 32,880 Butter 105,458 pounds. Cheese 7,440 " Wool 5,879 Fulled Cloth 1,482 yards. Flannel 3,698 Linen and Cotton 2,257 Two Flouring Mills using $14,000 raw material, Turned out 15,000 manufactured article. Eighteen Saw Mills usijg S 13,605 raw material. Turned out 30,959 manufactured article. Carding Machine using K 4,200 raw material. Turned out 5,680 manufactured article. Iron Works using - f 9,449 raw material, Turned out 14,400 manufactured article. Asheries using $550 raw material. Turned out 725 manufactured article. Two Tanneries usmg $2,889 raw material. Turned out 3,983 manufactured article. No of Horses .- ,626 " Sheep - 2,868 Hogs 1,522 " Cows -* 1,059 " Other Neat Cattle - 1,112 Some of these sources of prosperity have largely increased since the last census, particularly that of lumber. It will 70 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP be perceived there are now three more saw miUs than in 1845. The eonstruction of plank roads has become so exten sive, that the lumber business is now far more extensive. A large amount of plank suitable for that purpose, has been furnished from the forests and mUls of this town ; and more shingles have also recently been manufactured and sent to the eastern market. Large quantities of hemlock, pine, spruce, curled and pinned maple, cherry ash, and bass- wood lumber, are annually sent from this town to the Erie Canal to be shipped for market. It will be perceived that the persons taking the census were not required to furnish the statistics of a number of branches of the lumber business, to wit : the manufacturing of .shingles, laths, staves, and the various articles from turn ing laths. To all these should be added great improvements in buildings, and those of farms in fencing and ditching. A few years since, the Legislature passed a law allowing the towns of Rome, Annsville, and Florence, to vote at then- annual town meeting $2,000 each for the improvement of the State road from Rome to Saeketts Harbor. They all passed the requisite votes, -and are now fully realizing the wisdom of the measure in their improved facility in getting their products to market, and in the Increased travel through their towns. There are three taverns in this town with sufficient accommodations to meet this increase of business. A company has been formed, the stock taken, and a plank road constructed from Taberg to Rome, on the route of the State road. There are also two stores and one grocery in the town. m.] ANNSVILLE. 71 INDIANS. I The branch of the Oneida Tribe which formerly resided ¦at the meadows in this town, have been mentioned in the general account of the tribe. During or about the time of 4;he old French war, a party of Canadian Indians, about twenty in number, came and settled at the Forks. They ^came for the purpose of enjoying the fishery. This exceed ingly annoyed the Oneidas, whose territory and rights were thus invaded. They however succeeded, after a brief time. In driving off the intruders. How much force had to be wsed in their ejectment, ean not now be ascertained. HISTORY, ANTIQUITIES, ANECDOTES, ETC. John W. Bloomfield, Esq., was the first white settler of this town. He moved from Burlington, New Jersey, and made his first improvement near where Doct. Beech now resides. He purchased a large tract of land, and soon built a saw mill and grist miU. Mr. Bloomfield stayed the night before he arrived within the present limits of Oneida County, eight miles below Utica, then Fort Schuyler. This was in April, 1793. In the morning he started before breakfast, intending to make that necessary meal at Fort Schuyler. When he arrived there, sueh was the dearth of " creature comforts]' that the hostess told him she had nothing with which she could refresh either himself or horse. As the only alternative, he was obllg#d to, mount poor " dobbin," who was as hungry as himself, and travel another four miles over a dreary road to Whitesboro. It must be recollected fchat this was not in these railroad times, but in the days 72 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHiPl when from one to two miles per hour over the corduroy and mud, was doing very well. Suffice it to say, that he arrived at Judge White's just in time not to miss the dinner hour, breakfasting and dining at the same time. He remained with Judge White about two weeks, and then went to Rome, then Fort Stanwix. The same day upon which he arrived at Fort Stanwix, the late Oeorge Huntington arrived with a small assortment of goods, as noticed in the history of Rome. After staying a short time, he went on to his purchase at Taberg. The next year after Esquire Bloomfield arrived at Taberg, he employed a man by the name of Gere to dig a well. Gere resided in- the present town of Lee. After he had progressed to a considerable depth, the sand caved iu and caught his feet and legs, and Mr. Bloomfield went down to extricate him. When he had landed at the bottom, he- looked up, and saw that tlie sides of the weU were cracking and heaving, ready to fall in upon them. He sprang and caught hold of the rope used for di-awing up the earth, and by powerful exertion, succeeded in extricating himself, while poor Gere was covered to a great depth, and with him all the shovels on or near the premises. A messenger was imme diately dispatched to Lee, and another to Rome, to get help and shovels. This was about the middle of the afternoon. Gere could talk with those on the surface, said that the tub whicli was suspended by the rope over him had prevented the sand from falling upon his head, and that he was not hurt, and only suffered for the want of fresh air. How intense were the feelings of the few by-standers t Minutes seemed ages before "help arrived ; but very soon, in propor tion to the distance, men came scattering in with shovels. Each went to work as if the preservation of the life of a human being depended on his individual exertions. Sueh however was the vast amount of earth which had caved in. lU.} ANNSVILLE 13. and the constant running in, like water, of the sand from the sides, that the work proceeded very slowly. All night they toiled on without succeeding in reaching the sufferer. Each succeeding hour his voice grew more feeble, until some time iu the night it eeased for ever. In the morning the force was increased, but it was nearly noon before all that re mained of the poor well-digger was exhumed. The body was taken to Lee to be burled. He left a wife and children, and two of his sons afterwards lived with Mr, Bloomfield, Previous to the breaking up the settlement of the Oneida Indians at the Forks, they used to bring salmon to Mr. Bloomfield at Taberg, for which he paid them a certain price per pound. The Indians were not slow in learning that the heavier the fish the more money they received. One day an Indian brought him a back load of fish, and they were, as usual, weighed and paid for. On dressing them, it was found that each fish had been heavily charged with gravel stones ; but before the discovery was made, the poor Indian was far on his way to the Forks with his ill-gotten gains. A few days afterwards, Mr. Bloomfield saw Powlls, their chief, and complained of the fraud practised upon him. Powlls was very indignant, and said that Mr. Bloomfield had ever paid a fair price for every article he had purchased of them, and that he should not again be so illy treated ; and in all his purchases afterwards, Mr. B, never found a fish with so indigestible a dressing. One day, while Mr. Bloomfield was out upon his farm, an Indian came to his house, and requested Mrs. Bloomfield to let him have some liquor. This she resolutely refused, and he still as resolutely demanded it, saying that he knew they had it in the house. Finding that words did not terrify her, he drew his knife, and by threatening gestures drove her into a corner of the room, thinking thus to terrify her. 74 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY, '[cHAP. 80 that the liquor would be forthcoming. In this he was mistaken, for she then, in a determined voice, directed some member of the family to go out and call Mr, Bloomfield, who was not far distant. By this time he had learned the spirit of the woman, and thought he had better beat a hasty retreat, while he could with a sound skin, which he at once effected. The next day, to make peace with her, and to ¦convince her that he highly appreciated her firmness, he brought a fine saddle of venison, and presented it to her. She was ever afterwards well treated by the Indians. Another of the early settlors of Annsville, was Mr. Ellas Brewster. Originally from Connecticut, and a descendant of the pilgrims, he emigrated to this county in 1789 or 1790. He commenced upon a farm in the town of Western, near where is now the village of Delta. In 1806 he bought a lot in the town of Annsville, and commenced clearing it in March of that year; and on the 1st of April, 1807, he removed his family to his new* home. He h^d the buriosity to measure the snow on his premises, and found it five feet in depth ; and it was not all gone on the 1st of May. (The writer well remembers measuring the snow in the forest, and found it four and a half feet deep on the 7th of April of that year ; and this was in a location where it was not drifted, and in the town of Westmoreland.) The cabin iuto which he moved was of the rudest kind. Crotches were ^et in the ground, from which poles were placed to support .the roof The roof and siding were of rough boards and slabs. These had to be hauled three miles, at great labor, upon a route where no road or bridge had been constructed. A fire in a primitive fireplace at one end, over which an opening had been left for the escape of the smoke, warmed its inmates. A rough door, hung with strips of raw hide, and a window the paper panes ¦of which were made transparent with oil, completed the III.J ASSSVSJLE. 7-5 •domicU of the new settler. His nearest neighbors were some two mUes distant in the town of Lee. Wolves, panthers, bears, and foxes were much too plenty for the safety of flocks, herds, and the tenants of the ferm yard, and not unfrequently were the settlers obliged to resort to strong pens, and watch-fires for their protection. Many and amusing were their encoimterB with these free den izens of the forest As in all new settlements, their cattle had in summer to graze in the wide forest for subsis- ten«e ; therefore, " bringing Hve cows '-' became household words -with aU the juvenUes (gray-haired now) of those days. ¦On one occasion it was near night before Mr. Brewster started for these useful animals, and ascertaining their direc tion by the tinkling of the beU suspended from the neck of the " old cow]'' he at once dashed into the forest. He found them a fuU mUe from his house, and sunset warning him that darkness would soon be upon him. he therefore started the -cows rapidly for home. The road was circuitous to avoid a miry swamp. The more rapid striking of the beU notified the femUy that the cows were found, and in fuU motion for home, as weU as of the progress made. When about two- thirds of the distance was accomplished, the wUd, unearthly .scream of a panther on the track in the rear, gave notice to all concerned of the extreme danger of the father. These .screams were continued at short intervals, and distinctly •showed that the panther was fast gaining upon the beH Soon the cattle reached home, and were let into the little clearing, when such a sbrUl and prolonged scream rang out from the darkness, apparently but a few rods from the house, as if once heard will ever be remembered. As soon as the cattle were yarded, a fire was kindled in the enclosure, which, -with the aid of horns, tin pans, and brass kettles, euccessfnlly frightened away the unwelcome visitor; not^^ 76 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. • however, until it had given a full and fair spedmen of the hideousness of its notes, and its capabilities in prolonging them. On the following moming, the bark of a recently fallen beech tree showed the capacity of the animal to harm a subject more congenial to its appetite. In the autumn of the second season of Brewster's residence in town, the bears committed great depredations in his corn field A neighbor, who had recently moved to within about one mile of him, was the owner of a large black sow. In her perambulations, this animal had also learned the where abouts of the com field, and seemed to vie with Bruin iu her sad havoc of the crop. The apology for a fence, was what was known in those days as a " tree fence," which was not a very good barrier against the grunting quadruped. She had often been forcibly ejected, but as often made a forcible re-entrance. One evening, and about dark, Mr. Brewster heard the work of destruction again going on in the corn field, some thirty rods from the house ; and from the earliness of the hour he concluded it was the tame and not the wUd trespasser. He therefore directed his son, of about twelve years of age, to go and again dispossess the animal. The little feUow demurred, saying that it was of no use. A reiteration of the order, however, caused him to start, not however in the best possible humor with things in general, or the black sow in particnlar. By the time he had arrived at the point of the animal's depredations, he had laid in, as instruments of expulsion, a number of good-sized stones. The beast was so busily engaged as not to discover the boy until he was close upon it, and had saluted it with a full voUey of stones. At first the animal stood on the de fensive, but another voUey caused it to seek safety in flight. Satisfied -with the ease -with which he had expelled the sow. he retumed to the house, reflecting upon her expertness m.J ANNSVILLE, 77 in climbing the brush and logs of the fence. He told his father it was of " no further use to try to keep out the sow, as she could climb as well as a eat, for she went over the fence where it was fifteen feet high," This aroused the sus picions of the father, and he enquired how the beast behaved when he commenced stoning it. The boy replied that " sho raised herself upon her hind feet as if to make fight, when he sent a good big stone that hit her in the side of the head, which caused her to run and climb the fence " as described. By this time the father was satisfied with the nature of the beast the boy had driven from the field. He said nothing, however, for fear of alarming the family. The next morn ing, on repairing to the scene of operations, he discovered, by the size and shape of the tracks, that instead of a sow, his boy had been dealing with a huge bear. The next day two guns were set in the field, and some time in the night fol lowing, the report of the guns announced that something had crossed the cord. The following morning a bear was found dead but a few rods from the scene of operations. It was of the largest size, weighing about four hundred pounds. As late as the year 1827 or 1828, the bears again made their appearance in this town, and did great damage to the corn crop. On the 16th of August, 1816, a man by the name of William Lord, a neighbor to Mr. Brewster, went to Taberg after some necessaries for his family, and some rum, with which to do his harvesting. The distance was about two miles, and there was no road through the forest on any por tion of his route. He had to cross Fish Creek where the Coalhill Bridge is now located. He reached Taberg, trans acted his business, and just at night started for home, but was observed to be partially intoxicated when he left. The banks of Fish Creek, above the crossing place, arc pre- 78 AN.NALS OF OXEIDA COUItTY. [cUAP. cipitous and rocky. Darkness, and the fumes of the fiqnor. caused him to lose his way. Instead of reaching the creek at the crossiu" place, he struck it about forty rods too high. and walked off the bank where it was about forty feet high, and fell upon the rocks, and thence into the stream. In his fall he caught hold of some bushes, but their roots were too fraU to sustain his weight, and he floated down the creek a few rods to still water. When found, two days afterwards. the bushes were in his ri^t hand, and the handle of the jug in his left. His neck waa broken. The- plaee where he went off the bank was on the west side of the creek, and oppoiite the centre of the island above the CoaUiill Bridge The StiU water where the body was found has ever since re ceived the appellation of the " Rum Hole." Like all new settlements, the advantages of education were very limited, and school-; were like "angels' vialt.r. few aud far between." The history of one day -wiU weU portray the troubles cf "going to school" in a new settlement. Two Uttle sons of one of the early settlers were attending- the summer term of their district school in 1816. The eideit was nine, the youngest six years of age. Rain or sunshine, cold or hot, they had to walk three mUes in the moming tr< reach the school house, and the same distance at night. Two little girls, of about the same ages, resided on their road,, one mile nearer the school The eldest girl was a slender, deli cate thing, whUe her younger sister was stout and robust The .same (Ssparity existed between the boys, but in the reverse ; the eldest being a fctrong, athletic little feUow. and withal possessed of an indomitable will, that enabled him tc do anything whieh could be done by an urchin of that age. Of these four, the youngest girl was the only one that possessed a pair of shoes, the others having to make their long daUy walk with bare feet ; and even the gmaU girl was III.] ANNSVILLE. «• 79 not fortunate enough to possess those comfortable accom paniments of shoes, — a pair of stockings. Those of us old enough will remember the 6th day of June, 1816, It had been preceded by cold frosty nights, and on that day It snowed in every part of the county, and in some parts it fell several inches in depth. Cold as was the morning, these four children were punctually at school. The school house — none too comforable for pleasant weather — had become so cold by two o'clock in the afternoon, that the pupils were dismissed, with directions to go to the near est house on their way home. There was a house on the road of the four wc have introduced to our readers, about one-fourth of a mile from the school house. To this house, by moving in double quick time, they managed to get ; but to their utter dismay, they found the door fastened, and its inmates from home. Here was a dilemma. To retrograde was useless, for the home of the girls, one and three-fourth miles distant, was as near as any inhabited dwelling, Snow was falling, and it was already two inches deep. Our eldest boy's strength of nerve was now put to the test. Nothing daunted, however, he well laid his plans, and at once pr,o- ceededvto put them in execution. He had that morning — rather clandestinely, it is true — appropriated his father's roundabout, quite too capacious for him, yet possessing two ¦ very important advantages : it shielded him from the cold, and its extensive pockets, one on each side, served as a de posit for all the et cetera^ of the school boy, viz.: — a ball, fish-hook and line, top, knife, sling, and whistle, toys- as necessary to the man in miniature as others to those of larger growth. Little could he have imagined to how much more important uses these huge pockets would be put during the day. He directed the two girls to walk on as fast and as far as they could without freezing, then t» sit down and both ^ ANNALS Of ONEIDA COUNTY. [cBAr. rub the eldest girl's feet with their hands untU he came up. He then took his brother upon his back, with a foot in each pocket, and his arms about his neck, and followed on. When he came up with the girls, he put down his brother, and told him and the smaller girl to proceed as before, and he took the larger girl upon his back, with her feet in those now useful pockets, and so on by successive stages until they had arrived within forty rods of the girls' home. Their father, who was chopping in the vicinity of the road, heard the cries of the girls, and came to their aid. Our hero then had tho eldest girl upon his back, and, without speaking, the father caught the youngest two, one under each arm, and ran for the house. Our hero said he thought he never saw a man run as fast before, for ere he had gone one half the distance to the house, the father returned, and lifting the elder girl from his back, took her under one arm and our hero under the other, and soon had them deposited before a good rousing fire. The mother of the girls, previous to the arrival of our hero, had learned from them the whole history of the trans action. On his arrival she at once, in the fullness of her gratitude, loaded him with her caresses. This wounded his pride, although perhaps a very little of that article would have been excusable, for, as he supposed, he had saved his fellow-sufferers from perishing. She also, by her misjudged kindness, had him sit near to the glowing fire. The pain in his feet soon became almost insupportable, a sickening sen sation came over him, his vision became obscured, he grasped at the chair, but did not succeed, his physical powers, which had been so over-tasked, gave way, and he fell. The intense agony of the moment was soon lost in a state of unconscious ness. For hours the poor sufferer lay insensible. The first thing he noticed on the return of reason, was the kind- hearted woman bending over him, and his father applying 111,5 ANNSVlLiLE. 81 .some restoratif e i;o his feet. It was after dark. His father had started with his team in season to have saved all the .suffering, had the school continued to the usual hour of dis mission. He was wrapped well in warm clothing, put on a sled, and taken home the same evening. His feet were so laceratedbythe stones and sticks in his path, while devoid of feeling, that a number of days elapsed before he could even walk about the house. Another of the early settlers was Squire Fairsprvice. He settled on the flats, a little above Jervis' mill, and was a noted fisherman. While splitting wood one day, his little child came out of the house, unobserved by him, and walked directly under his aixe, and the descending blow cleft its scull, aad kUled it instantly. After the salmon had been shut out of the creek, Fairservice emigrated to Wisconsin, where he died. Adam P. Campbell and Nicholas Armstrong settled on the meadow in 1805 or 1806. Dan T'aft, and a man by the name of Jones, settled near where Vincent Taft now keeps a public house. Dan Taft for a number of years kept a noted tavern on the same premises. The author remembers of staying at it one night in June, 1814, and that a fine salmon graced the supper table, which had been caught the same day near by. About the same t5me a man by the name of Wade settled at the Forks. The persons named are believed to be the earliest inhabit ants of the town. the day of execution, she hung herself in the jail at Herki mer, At the time, it was the opinion of many that she was induced to commit suicide by the belief that thereby she would evade the last part of her sentence, and save her body from the dissecting knife. If this was so, she faUed in her object, for her remains were used for the promotion of pro fessional science, (See section upon Capital Convictions, pp, 42, 43, for particulars of her trial.) Theophilus Fowler, an Indian, shot Ethan Wiggins, an other Indian. They, with others, had been on a squirrel hunt for two or three days. Coming into the neighborhood of the distillery, Wiggins went into the shoe shop of Charles Stiles, an upper room of the house now occupied by David Fish, and Fowler went to the distillery and obtained some thing to drink. Very soon Fowler took his gun and went rapidly up the street, until opposite the shoe shop. Wiggins was looking out of the window, and Fowler, without giving any notice of his intentions, drew up and fired. Wiggins fell, one shot having entered his eye, and Was immediately carried to Brotherton, where he survived but about three days. After the Revolutionary war, the Oneida Indians who resided at Oriskany, left that location, and a part came to the " Mile Square," in the neighborhood of the present residence of John Curry. This location had long before been occupied by Indians. Mr. Philo White was of the opinion that when the Oneida Indians left Oriskany, a part of them went to Canesaraga. After the settlement of Augusta, a number of those Indians yet remained upon the "MUe Square." Cornelius was their head man, and he had ;a son-in-law named Jacob. Jacob and another Indian, whose name can not now be ascertained, went to Clinton, where they obtained^ liquor. While upon their return, they ?V.] Atf&UStA. 97 had a quattel, and although Jacob was mueh the smaller man, yet, as is believed, from the fact that he was less drunk, he obtained the advantage in the fight. Upon arriving at theit settlement, they fitst came to the home of the larger Indian. The latter, went into his wigwam, and obtaining his rifle, came to the door, and shot Jacob, who fell dead. He then dragged the body into the woods, and made an attempt to conceal it The next morning, Jacob not having arrived at his home, his father-in-law, Cornelius, started to search for him. When he arfived at the place in the road where Jacob had been shot, his practised eye discovered blood, and with true Indian sagacity, he traced its trail iuto the woods, and found the body. From the circumstan- ¦ees, he at once knew who was the murderer. Standing in the relation of the "avenger of blood," according to the Indian laws, he immediately proceeded to the cabin of the murderer, burst 'open the door, and with his ever ready knife, gave, as he supposed, the fatal stab. By means of " eaves dropping," a few evenings afterwards, he ascertained that his aim had not been true, and that the murderer was re covering from his wound, Cornelius then went to Hendrick Smith, his nephew, who resided at the Indian Orchard, and who was also from Oriskany, and borrowed his brass hatchet, with a steel edge, and also persuaded Smith to go with him. They started, and ran without once halting, until they ar rived at the cabin door of their -victim. Cornelius burst open the door, and finding the object of their vengeance upon his bed, without uttering a word, caught him by the hair, and with one blow of the tomahawk cleft opeia his head. Not knowing in what light the matter might be viewed by the friends at Oneida, of the Indian whom they had executed, Cornelius and Smith thought it prudent to leave the place until the excitement, if any, had subsided. They therefore 7 98 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP went south into the Chenango country, and remained until they learned that the friends of the murderer were satisfied that his punishment was merited and -just, and were not dis posed to take any notice of it, or his executioners, when they retumed. The author is awEsre that there is some skepticism in re lation to this transaction. His informant was the Hon Aaron Stafford, of Waterville, who is a son of the Ichabod Stafford who settled in Augusta in 1793. He resided witli bis father at the time, and but a short distance south frorii where it took place. Although he was not an eye--iritne.s.s. yet he weU recollects the affair, and that the next morniug after the murder, Jacob's wife, with a very young infant. came to his father's, accompanied by her mother, the -wife of Cornelius, and of their talking ofthe subject, and T7eepiiig bitterly. He also weU recollects having seen the bras; latchet, with steel edge, belonging to Hendrick Smith, with Tf liieh it was said the Indian was executed ; and also remeiii- bcrs the absence of Cornelius and Hendrick. Those ac quainted with the tenaeit}- of ^Mr. Stafford'.s memory, wi'? hardly doubt the correctne.?3 of his statements. Another instance of death from fire-arms, was that in vrhic-h Thomas Grinnell, accidentally, .sliot him.self in the arm, near the shoulder. He survived the accident but aLout a -K-.,ek. Timothy Ranney T\-as accidectaUy shot Ly his cousiu Silas Cook; on Sunday, the 10th of April, 1810. Riley Siiepard and Timothy Ranney, were .sitting near each other. reading alternately a verse from the Bible, and if the charge had possessed sufficient force to have passed thre-agh Mr Ranney's head, Shepard would have shared the fate of Li.- co'iisin. At the FaUs. Mr. Cady .shot Mr. ij-ardner. who was ac-tin-; r/.j 'AUGUSTA, 99 the part of a military -offitifer, by giving him the wol-d of com mand. There had been-a training tbe day previous, and Cady was not aware that the igun was loaded, Orrin S, Cook, son of Josiah Cook, wasi- killed by the falling of a tree, Oct 22, 1818, Terenoe Fagan was killed July 12, 1838, by falling from Ills wagon, and the holrses -stopping with one of the wheels •resting upon his neck. His death occurred in Stockbridge, but he was a resident of Augusta. Roswell J. Lewis, of this town, was killed at Oneida Castle, cn the 22d of May, 1842, by being run over while attempting to stop his own and E. Wooster's horses while running. After the accident, he survived but about twenty- four hours. Says his obituary: "Within the recollection of our oldest citizens, death has not entered our town under no painful a shape, and attended by such a variety of distressing particulars, as in this instance." In 1834, a sum of about $2,100 was raised for the pur pose of an Academical School -at the Centre. A very com modious stone buUding was soon erected, and a school went into successful^ operation. In 1840, the sum of $400 was raised for a -library and philosophical apparatus, and the Academy was incorporated. The form of the building is peculiar, at least it is so for Central New York. The front is a regular semicircle, while the rear wall is straight. The teachers in this Institution have been, Melville Adams, Rev. Benjamin Lockwood, Robert Bradshaw, J. Manross, Hewitt -Bronson,- G. L. Hall, Rev. Samuel -Whaley, A. K, Eaton, C- Percival. Mr. Hall taught successfully during ,seven years. This town,- like Vernon, wai^ settled by < very many from Litchfield County, Conn. At this time, eighteen of the forty-eight fa.milles who reside upon the road which runs 100 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAF< north and south through the Centre, were from that eounty, or are the immediate descendants of such. The town of Otis, In Berkshire County, Mass,, at one time had many repre sentatives in Augusta. Josiah Cook, grandfather of Chauncy C. Cook, of Clinton, attended a half century celebration at the Centre in 1847. He came from Otis to this town in 1799, with thirteen chil dren, all of whom, with a single exception, settled with famUies in Augusta, His descendants, on the 7th of Sep tember, 1847, numbered 250, Abner Ranney, who died September 1st, 1847, aged 101 years, 5 months, and 5 days, came from Blandford, Hamp den County, a town adjoining Otis, had twelve children, eighty-seven grandchildren, and eighty great-grandchUdren. These two patriarchs settled upon opposite sides of the same street, Knox's Corners at one time went by the name of Cook's Corners, Elisha Shephard, an old resident of this town, and who was in the battle of Stone Arabia, upon the Mohawk, on the 19th of October, 1780, in which Col, Brown, the commander, and about forty out of two hundred soldiers, were killed, related a fact which the author has never seen noticed in any account of the aborigines, Mr. Shephard states that none of the red-haired persons who fell in the battle were scalped, while no others escaped the horrid mutilation. In 1795, Mr, J. Reynolds, while looking for his cows, accompanied by his dog, treed a bear, when about sixty rods south-west of Ozias Hart's, Being within hailing dis tance, he called to Hart to come with his gun, and shoot the bear, Mr, Hart misunderstood the request, supposing the bear had treed Reynolds, Although he had a gun well loaded, and one or two dogs, he went in search of his brother IV.J AUGUSTA, 101 that he might have his assistance in relieving his neighbor from his perilous situation, Mr. Reynolds becoming im patient, went to Hart's, believing the dog would keep pos session ; but in this he was mistaken, for the dog also left, and before the arrival of Reynolds or the Harts, the animal had decamped, and made good his retreat. The anecdote does no very great credit to the courage of Ozias Hart or the dog. Another "bear story" is also told by the "oldest inhabit ants," As Thomas Spafford was going to meeting one Sun day, at the house of Ichabod Stafford, and when about half way from the Centre to Stafford's, he discovered a large bear following him. For a time he pursued his way quietly. hoping the animal would soon leave the path, but in this lie was mistaken, for the animal gained fast upon him. He now attempted to frighten it from its course, but without success. The bear at length having eome so near, and its company being so unwelcome, Spafford left the path, and ascended a small hemlock, and by the time he was fairly out of reach, the animal was at the roots of the tree. Thus un pleasantly situated, and wishing to get a higher, and perhaps easier position, Stafford unluckily took hold of a dry limb, which broke, and he fell. Bruin, doubtless thinking as Spafford "came tumbling down," that he was "come for," suddenly left, while the latter pursued his way without fur ther molestation. Oriskany Falls is a flourishing village, in the south-west part of the town. The fall of the Oriskany Creek at this place is so considerable, that a large amount of water power is obtained. In its descent, the water is carried over a ledge of limestone, at an angle of about 45 degrees. There are a grist and flouring mill, two saw mills, two woolen factories, besides some smaller machinery ; and the water power is 102 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAF. such as to admit' a vast increase of business. The village contams about six hundred inhabitants, two taverns, two dry goods and two grocery stores, three storehouses, two cab inet and chair factories, and most kind of mechanic shops. The Chenango Canal, and "Hamilton and Deans-yille Plank- Road," pass through this place. There is an inexhaustible quarry of limestone in and near the village, large quantities of which are quarried for building purposes and for lime, and transported upon the canal to different parts of the country. The Congregational Church is of stone, of good size, and is a substantial edifice. Augusta Centre has three places of public worship, — a Presbyterian, Baptist, and Methodist, those of Presbyterians and Baptists with steeples. They aire all painted, and are well-arranged, good buildings. The Academy at this place has been noticed. There are a tavern, one dry goods store, a grist and flouring mill, with the various mechanic shops usual In country villages. There are four grist mills and sis saw mills in the town. RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. The first sermon preached -within the present limits of tha town, was by a Methodist minister; in 1794, in the house of a Mr. Fairbanks, upon the place now occupied by Mrs. Camp Williams. Possibly there may have been preaching pre viously by some missionary, but if so, it is not within the knowledge of any one now living in the town. The widow of Ichabod Stafford, who is now quite aged*, and resides in the village of Waterville, informed the writer that a Baptist Church was formed very early in the settler ment of the town, in- the vicmity of her residence upon the IV.J AUGUSTA, 103 east hill, of which she was a member. It was dissolved after a few years, and no records respecting it have been found. In 1797, a log school-house stood upon the west side of the road whieh runs north from William Bridge's, In, that sehool-house, on the 7th of September of that year, the present Congregational Church was formed, with nine mem bers, by Rev, Doct, Asahel S, Norton, of Clinton, and Rev, Joel Bradly, of Westmoreland. The church was organized in the morning, and Rev. Mr. Bradly preached in the after noon. The names of the first members were Isaiah Gilbert, Experience Gilbert, Benjamin Durkee, Susanna Durkee, Thomas Stafford, Lucy Stafford, Ezra Saxton, Abiel Llnsley, iind Anna Linsley. Mr., Llnsley was the first moderator. After the' formation of tbe church, its members continued to meet upon the Lord's-day in private dwellings, school- houses, barns, and sometimes in the open air, for conference and prayer, and occasionally had preaching, by Dr. Norton and Rev. Mr. Kirkland, and sometimes others were employed &r a few weeks, or perhaps months. In 1800, the church numbered but sixteen, having re ceived seven by letter, and two by profession. In 1804, Rev, John Spencer commenced preaching to this people. He was a native of Connecticut, and had enjoyed but the privileges of a common school education. At the close of the Eevolutionary -war, in which he served as a soldier, he came ta Worcester, Otsego County, He was a plain, unassuming man, but contemplating the moral desola tion around him, and the paucity of laborers, he desired to enter the ministry. He was encouraged, and licensed to preach in Oetober, 180^. Ife spent two or three years in the County of Greene, and afterwards in the County of Oneida, and removed from Vernon Centre to Augusta. The «Her class of ths people^ speak of him with affectioa. He 104 ANNALS OF ONEIDA C®UNTY. [CHAP. left this place- m 1807, and in 1809 removed to the then almost unbroken wilderness, but now the town of Sheridan, in Chatauque County. His praise as a missionary, was in many churches. A monument, bearing the foUowing in scription, marks his grave in the burying plaee in Sheridan : " This stone is consecrated to the memory of Rev. John Spencer, many years a missionary of the Connecticut Mis sionary Society, He was the first Gospel minister who traversed the wilderness then called the HoUland Purchase, and was the instrument, under God, in forming most of the Congregational and Presbyterian Churches which existed in this region when he rested from his labors, 1826, aged 68, " He trod a useful but laborious path to immortality, in. the ardent, unremitted exercise of doing good. ' " Tho Association of Western New York, grateful to his memory, have erected this monument, hoping that it may prompt the beholder to imitate his self-denying labors. 1838." Says Mr. Ayer: "From the time of Mr. Spencer's re- luoial until October 15, 1809, the church appears to liave been in the wilderness in tumults, like sheep without a shepherd, going astray. At that time the church called the l\o-\-. David Kendall, of Hubbardston, Mass., to take the pastoral charge, whicli was accepted, and he was installed May 2, 1810. Mr. Kendall was dismissed, August 11,1814. During his ministry, twelve were received by profession, and two by letter. The Rev. Oliver Ayer commenced, his labors with tliis church in October, 1814, and was installed January 10th, 1816, the Rev. Dr. Azel Backus preaching upen the occa sion, from Hebrews x. 25. Mr, Ayer continued his labors with the church about four years. These are reckoned as the four most prosperous years which this, body ever os- IV.] AUGUSTA. 105 pcrioneed in succession. Two years of the time witnessed a revival, in which the church, numbering at their commence ment but forty-eight members, received accessions of one hundred and sixty. Mr. Ayer's health ha-ving failed, the Rev. Ely Burchard commenced his labors with this church in January, 1818, Mr. Ayer was not dismissed until Feb. 3, 1819, and the council that dismissed him, ordained and installed Mr. Bur chard the next day. The church enjoyed the labors of the latter four years and eight months, and was increased during his ministry by the addition of forty-four upon profession, and fourteen by letter. He was dismissed Oct. 15, 1822. The Rev. Benjamin J. Lane commenced his labors, as stated supply, a few weeks after the dismissal of Mr.- Bur chard, and continued them about four years. In the early part of this period there was an interesting revival, aud during the four years of his labors, sisty-five were received upou profession, and fourteen by letter. The Rev. Leverett Hull immediately succeeded Mr. Lane, and like his prede cessor, was not installed. He continued four years, and reeeived about .one hundred upon profession of faith. The first protracted meeting in Augusta was held during the ministry of Mr. HuU. The revival, which was the result of this meeting, or at least the measures and means adopted, were condemned by some as extravagant. Mr. Hull had warm and decided friends, while some were as decidedly- opposed to him. The Rev. ilv. HuU was succeeded, for one year, by Rev John Waters, whose labors were eminently useful. In June, 1S31, a protracted meeting was held, in whieh the Baptists took part ; a revival foUowed, and, as its fruits, on the 4th of September, fifty-three were received upon profession of faith, being the largest number ever received at one time by 1:06 ANNALS OF- ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. this church. On the 25-th of November, 1832, the chureh reached its highest point in numbers, having at that time precisely four hundred members. In January, 1838, thirty-five members received letters of dismission, for the purpose of forming a church at Oriskany Falls. After the trial of many candidates. Rev. A. P. Clark was called to the pastoral office, September 13, 1833, and was installed February 12, 1834. He was an excellent pastor and man. During- the spring or summer following, he had the misfortune to break one of his limbs, which hindered him from his labors a number of months; Be died Feb. 6, 1835, aged 38 years. He was- entombed with the people of his affection, and his epitaph is, — "Remember the wordfi that I spake unto you while I was yet with you." Nothing could have been more appropriate. A little more than two years of quiet followed, in whieh Mr. Robertson and Mr. Wells supplied the pulpit. On the 10th of May, 1836, the present pastor. Rev, Orlo Bartholomew commenced his labors, and was installed by the Oneida Presbytery on the 24th of the following x\ugust. There were upon the church book when he came, 279 mem bers. Of that number- 1-19 have been dismissed, two have been excommunicated, and fifty have died. During this time, seventy-one have been received by letter, and ninety- four by profession of faith, and three who- had been absolved, have returned, making the whole number- reoeived, 168, leaving the church three less than when the present pastor commenced preaching ta them. In the first year- of his labors, fifteen were added upon profession, the result of a protracted, meeting, held in connection with, the Baptist Church. In the third year, thirty-six were received upon profession. Most of these were hopefully converted, in the !V ] AUGUSTA. 107 above-mentioned meeting. Elders Smitzer and Parker per formed most of the preaching during the meeting. Deacons Abiel Llnsley and Isaiah Gilbert officiated for the first six or -seven years of the existence of the church. They had each held the office before they came to Augusta. Deacon Llnsley* after he left, was the instrument of doing much good ; and a letter written by him to his pastor, when unable to attend public worship from ill health, was the commencement of the means which resulted in the formation of the Genesee Missionary Society. In 1804, Amos Gilbert and Philip Pond were chosen deacons. Lebbeus Camp, chosen in 1814, was dismissed in 1833. John Lewis was chosen in 1823, Robert Durkee and Mark Thompson in 1832, and R-usseU Knox in 1834. This church has contributed liberally to the benevolent objects of the day. In five years, commencing with 1837, they gave $4,419 09 to different benevolent Associations. From the time ofthe erection of the town house, in 1805, to 1816, it was occupied as a meeting house by this Society. In 1816 the present house of worship was built, and was dedicated Feb. 3, 1-817, In 1844, its interior was re modelled, and it was re-dedicated the same year. As early as 1802, there were two Methodist classes in Augusta, one of which met in the neighborhood where now the Messrs. Powers reside, and the other upon the east hill, in the vicinity of which the old chapel, stood. This was the centre of the denomination in this town for many years, and they had often large congregations for the country. The old chapel was built by Riley Shepard, in 1819, and was. regularly occupied until the new chapel was built at the Centre, in 1840. The new chapel was dedicated December 15, 1840, Zachariah Paddock officiating upon the occasion. The first service in it after the day of dedication, was upoa. 108 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [cHAP. Thanksgiving-day, the 17th of the same month, when tbe Rev. 0. Bartholomew, of the Congregational Church, preach ed from Johnvi, 12: "Gather up the fragments, that nothing be lost," There are now in eonnection with the Methodist denomi nation at various places in the town, as follows: — At the Centre, forty-two ; at the Falls, twenty-one ; at Knox's Cor ners, twenty-three; upon the "Strip," twenty; making 106 members of the station or circuit. There are twenty of the inhabitants of Augusta connected with the Methodist Society at DeansviUe, eighteen with the Society at Vernon Centre, and five connected with the Society at Stockbridge. The present Baptist Church in Augusta was organized August 22, 1829, with thirty -three members. The first meeting for business was held August 30, the same year. and their meeting house was dedicated the 20th of the same month. These dates may seem paradoxical, but they are in accordance -with the records and the facts. It seemed to the author unusual for a Society to erect a good and convenient meeting house, and have it dedicated, before the organization of the church ; but upon re-inquiry, he is assured the above dates are correct. The most extensive revival was in 1831, and which is mentioned in the history of the Congregational Chureh. Seventy-six were added to the Baptist Church upon pro fession, and twelve by letter during its continuance. In September, 1833, the number of members was 127, in 1838, 141. Present number, 85. The preachers to this Church have been. Elders P. P. Brown, James A. MaUory, A. H. Haff, Jason Corwin, — . Bridge, — . Jeffries, and R. Z. WU liams. The Congregational Church at Oriskany Falls was organ ized January 31, 1833. Its present number is seventy-five. IV.] AUGUSTA. lOd of whom thirty-six reside in Augusta-, There is but one more member of this denomination upon the territory which this Church occupies in Augusta, than when formed. The walls of their house were erected and enclosed in 1834, and the basement so finished that the congregation worshipped in it until the building was completed and dedicated, April 9, 1845. The dedication sermon was preached by the Rev, 0. Bartholomew, from 2 Chron, ii 4, The Rev, John Cross labored with this church one year previous to the last Lord's-day in Nov. 1834, when the Rev. Pindar Field commenced his labors, and was installed by tha Oneida Association, December 21st, ftnd was dismissed by the same on May 26, 1846, a little more than one year aftei* the house, for which he had made great personal sacrifices, had been dedicated. At the time of his settlement, the church consisted of forty-seVen members. There were added during his ministry ninety-three, forty-one by profession and fifty-two by Iptter, During Mr. Field's pastorate, the sum of about $ 700 was contributed by thig Society to the differ ent benevolent objects of the day. CoL. Thomas Cassety. — The aiithor has not been able to ascertain satisfactorily the time of his birth. He was the son of James Cassety, who was a captain in the British army, and on service in this cotmtry in the French war of 1756, After the peace of 1760, the captain went to l)etroit, and established himself as an Indian tradei*. Here he con tinued until the eommencemetit of the Wai* bf the Revolu' tion, when he was ordered to take tip arms against the colonies. This he refused to do. In the mean time Thomas,- the subject ^f this notice, was born, had pursued the usual 410 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [cKAP. .preparatory -course, and was now far advanced in his eoUe- giate-edugation. During a vacation, he -visited his father at Detroit, -and while there, an officer of the crown was sent to arrest his father for treason, in refusing -to fight the battles of George -I-II against the colonies. The arrest was made in the presence of the son, which so exasperated him, that he seized a loaded musket, and fired at the officer. Whether he killed him or not, is not known, as the Colonel in after life would never throw any light upon the subject, further than that the ball passed through the officer's hat crown. The Captain- was taken to Quebec, and -for three long years con fined so closely in prison, that in the whole period the sun never fer once shone upon him. At length, with two others. he made his escape. Thomas, after firing at the officer, made good his retreat from Detroit, and took refuge with one of the western tribes of Indians. Here he was received and treated with kindness, was formally adopted into their tribe, one of the chiefs of which gave him his daughter for a, wife. By her he -had issue ; and tradition has said, whether truly or falsely, that '-the celebrated Tecumseh -was a son of -Thomas Cassety." After a residence of several years with the Indians, and after our independence had been acknowledged by Britain. -as he could then return in safety, he left the Indians, and again took up his abode in civilized life, and was again mar ried. By this marriage he had seven children, two sc-ns and -five daughters. The next that h learned of him is, tluit he was residing at Canajoharle. The surveyors employed by -Peter Smith having been driven off, as before stated, their compass and chain broken to pieces by the pagan pahy of the Oneidas. Mr. Smixb had recourse to 3Ir. Cassety. who was residing at that place, h- ¦induce him to come to Oneida, and make .peace with the IV.J AUGUSTA. Hi Indians. From his thorough acquaintance with Indian character,- he was peculiarly fitted for this mission, in which he was entirely successful. Mr. Smith, by means of these services, was enabled to realize a considerable fortune. In 1794, Mr. Cassety removed to the to-wn of Augusta. and settled at Oriskany -Falls, a location which for many years was known only by the name of Cassety Hollow. Here he built "the mills as before stated, and In erecting the -grist mUl, he and 'Peter Smith were in company: Soon after its completion, Cassety, wh'o was now a Colonel in the militia, and Justice of the Peace, purchased of Smith his share, and mortgaged his property' to Smith *to secure the payment of the purchase money. Eventually, the foreclosing of this mortgage reduced the Colonel from competency to poverty. The earnings of years of toU and privation were all swept away. His death was -most melancholy. A clothier, in ^removing from his shop, had left, among other articles, a bottle of sul phuric acid. -This the Colonel Supposed to be whiskey, (a poison in most eases just as sure, if not as rapid,) and the fatal draught closed his existence in a few hours. -He died A-agust 14, 1831. Colonel Cassety had talents of a high order, which had been improved by a good education. He was a warm and true friend ; generous almost to a fault The early settlers of Augusta often enjoyed his bounty. Upon one occasion, in a time of scarcity, -he divided among them, gra;tuitously, all the bread-stuffs in his mill, poor as well as rich receiving In proportion to the liumbers in their families. -Unsolicited, upon another occasion, he advanced the money to save a poor man's cow from being sold upon an execution. He was a ' -wit and humorist. In polished society, he was a gentleman. For the 3.musement of others, he could represent-scenes from 112 .iNNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. savage life with skUl anid accuracy. In his intercourse with those in humble Ufe, he conld conform to them -without compromising his dignity of character. He had his faults, but we would let those lie, buried in the same grave, where. without monument or epitaph, sleep his remains. His father, Capt. James Cassety, died in Augusta. 3I?.y -33, lv2-2. agedSi V.J AVA. I ll CHAPTER V This is the youngest sister in the family of towns in Oneida ('ounty. It was taken from the west part of Boonville, and organized as a town, by an act of Legislature, passed ]May \-i, 1846. The territory included in this town was first settled by Ebeneier Harger. He removed from Connecticut to Whites- town in 1797, and to this town in 1798, and settled upon the oa-«t branch of the Mohawk, about three-fourths of a mile cast of the location of the Ava Post Office. Zephaniah Wood and Abner Wood settled soon after Mr. Harger. Soon after, — and it is lielieved in 1800, — Philo Harger, Benjamin Jones, Lemuel Wood, and Justus Beardsley moved into the town. In 1801, Philo Harger and Benjamin .Innes erected the first saw mill in the town, upon the i^ast branch of the Mohawk. At this time, the few settler.s were nine miles from any other inhabitants. The nearest grist mill was that of Gen. Floyd, at the plaee since named West ernville, at a distance of twelve miles, without a road, bridges, or causeways. For the first few years, these Isolated pion eers endured many hardships and privations. Wolves, f Lose pi-rnioious nuisances of border life, were quite too numerous. and destroyed many of their few sheep and other stock. This town occupies an elevated position. Head-w.it tlio stone building in which the Post Office is now kept, ]'"ri)ui the best information obtained, the first death lu tin- tii-jvn was that of a Mr. Truman. Of this there is, however. some uncertainty, as other informants think it was a Mr. i)arrow who died first. That pleasant relation first instituted in Eden, "when ;iiiii-ols were witnesses, and God the priest," was early al- Umded to. The first marriage was that of Mr. Henry Evans and Miss Elizabeth Edmunds, daughter of Capt. Andre-\v ]'ldinunds, the first settler. If some died, others were born, 'i'lie first birth in the town was that of a daughter of Jai-ob i-^prinrjer 118 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [c'H.iP. This town lies in an elevated position, the head waters of the Mohawk and Black Rivers, and Flsh Creek, being found almost in the same neighborhood. Snow falls to a greater depth than in the southern part of the county. The larger portion of the town is better adapted to pasture than grain. In the south part of the town is a section which has received the distinctive local name of Egypt, possessing a warm gravelly soil, which is good for grain. In many parts, the surface is dotted with immense bowlders. Quarries of good limestone for building purposes, are abundant. Dairying Is the most general and productive busmess carried on by the farmers, and is receiving to some extent the attention it de serves. Lumber is abundant, and large quantities were prepared for market in anticipation of the opening of the Black River Canal in the .spring of 1850, and which found its way to market in the following season of navigation. The forests of pine and spruce are so extensive upon and near the head-waters of the Black River, that many years must elapse, even with the facilities of the canal, before they ean be cleared. The Black River Canal feeder extends from the river at Williamsville. nine miles to Boonville village, at which Is the summit level. Extending upon this level about two miles in a south-westerly course from the village, it enters (he ravine (for valley it can not be termed) of Lansing Kill (Creek), and keeping in the frightful chasm of the Kill a number of miles, it debouches into the valley of the Mohawk in Western. The Missionaries of the Cross early visited the "Black River Country," as the valley of that river and its vicinity was termed by the early emigrants. The Congregational Chureh of Boonville was formed by the Rev. Daniel Smith, a missionary sent out by the Massachusetts Missionary VI. j BOONVILLE. 1 19 Society, in the summer of ISOo. Its records previous to 1822 ;u-e lost, arid little is known of its early history. A eommittee was appointed a few years dnce, to look up its early statistics, but very little w-as obtained. This eom mittee, however, reported, '-that the Church at its formation ci-insistod of nine members, five males and four females ; that there were occasional supplies of preaching by mission- iiries from New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Connecticut; -.hat religious meetings were kept up upon the Lord's-day when there was no preaching.'' The eommittee eould not .iseertain the number of those who had been added previously to the time the present records commcnee. In April, IS31, .) branch eliui-eh -was formed in the south part of the town, which consisted of twelve members, six males and six females. The ehurch eoiitiiined, January '^9. 1850, 170 comiiiunieants. ThoBoonviUe Baptist Chureh was organized Feb. 3, 1810, ny Elder John Upfold. It consisted of seventeen members. ten males and seven females. The first pastor of the chureh was Elder Timothj- Day, who filled the pastorate three yeais. The pastors sinoe that time have beon Sainuel 3Iarshall, Cluirles Clark, Norman Chase, A. D. Truman, John Hitoh- eiick, Wm. Thompson, Perley P. Parsons, and Eliada Tuttle, the present pastor (1850). I'p to 1S26, tlie church Jield Its meetings in the school house in the village, and in j.rivate dwellings. In that year they erected a respectable nnd commodious house of worship. Previously to, and after tho formation of the ehurch, and before it had a stated pastor, tliose veteran pioneers, Elders Stephen Parsons, John Stephens, John Clark, Williams and Way, occasionally preached to the Baptists iu this vicinity. After the ehurch had stated preaching, sometimes intervals of months occurred ¦during which they had but occasional preaching from mis -donai-jes and -others. The Rev. Peter P. Roots, Simeon I:i0 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTV. [cHAP Horsey, TlUlnghast Green, — Ashley, — Beeles, and D. (i. ( 'orev, now of Utica, occasionally supplied the pulpit. The aggregate number of those who have joined this ehurch since its organization, as nearly as can now be ascer tained, is 275 ; and the present number of communicants is .sixty-six. This body has never joined the Oneida Baptist Association., but has retained its connection with the Black River Association. There is a Methodist Church in this town, with a con siderable congregation, and which has erected a chaste and eommodlous house for public worship. Boonville village is a very thriving and handsome place. situated upon the plank road leading from Utica to Turin ;inrl Lowville. The construction of the Black River Canat lias iidded much to the importance of this village ; and in 1 mount of business. Its inhabitants concede a superiority, of ¦plaees within this county, but to Utica and Rome. The village contains seven dry goods stores, one drug store, 130 dwellings, and about 1,000 inhabitants. It has no Academy, but its common school house is a commodious two storv stone building. Two teachers are employed in it, who havir an average attendance of about ninety students. Alder Creek village and post office are situated seven miles southerly from Boonville village, -where the plank road i-rri:-5seg the creek of that name. This place has a small union eliin-ch building, which was erected and has been occupied as a house of worship by the Methodists, Baptists, and Pres byterians. Here are an extensive tannery', and some other branches of mechanics ; also a store and two taverns. The first settler at this place was John Piatt, who commenced Jiere about 1805, and who is still living in the vicinity. WiUiamsvUle is a small village at the head of the Black Kivsr Canal feeder, upon the line between Boonville an-i VI.J BOONVILLE. * Hit Remsen. Here are two saw mills, a store, planing mill. butter-tub factory, and several dwellings. According to the census of 1845, there were then twcntv five saw mills in the town of Boonville, the largest number in any town in the county, excepting Vienna ; also two grist mills, two carding machines, two iron works, three asheries, and three tanneries. The population of the town was 3,653. The first town meeting in Boonville was held at the house of Joseph Denning. Jacob Rogers was eleeted the first Supervisor, but held the office but one year, and was suc ceeded by Philip S-;huyler, who held the office one year. Job Fish one year, John G. Post -two years, Martin South well thirteen years, John Dewey four years, Henry Graves nine years, Philip M. Schuyler three years, Stephen Ward five years, Wm. S Jackson two years, and Wilson B. Grant three years: the last first elected in 1849. The decrease in the population of this town, apparent from a comparison of the census returns of 1840 and 1850, is to be accounted for in the facts that Ava, with a population of about 1,000, was taken from this town in 1846, and that in 1840 many hun dreds of laborers upon the Black River Canal, and their families, were- then inhabitants of this town, but most of whom have since removed to other sections of the countrv ¦nliere public works were in progress. 122 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cIIAP. CHAPTER VII. BPaDGEVi'ATEE. O' This town is located within and upon the sides of a valley- v/hich extends through it from north to south, and its cast nd west lines are upon the highlands whicli form the sides f the valley. This valley is known in this section of the State by the name of Bridgewater Flats. The Flats at the north line of the town are about one mile wide, and decrease gradually to the south line of the town, where they are about half a mile in widtL These Flats are celebrated for their fertility, and in gen eral are very highly cultivated. Portions of them in the central and southern parts of the town are quite sandy, and in the northern part they are somewhat stoney, with an oc casional bowlder. The State geologist, when he visited this town, gave as his opinion that no rock existed underlaying this valley, within 1,000 feet from the surface, and this opin ion is partially sustained by the fact that no rock has been found in the deepest wells which have been sunk. One of the head-waterff*of the Unadilla rises in Paris, and passes through this valley to the soutL Upon the banks of this stream was originally a dense cedar swamp, from twenty to sixty rods ih width, which served to fence the farms in the vicinity, and much is left for future use. Another branch of the Unadilla rises near the north-west corner of Bridgewater, and empties into the above described stream, a short distance VII.J BRIDGE-WATER. 123 above the Corners, near the south bounds of the town. The " Line of Property," so called, extends from a point west of Rome upon Wood Creek, opposite where the Canada Creek empties into it, to the head of this last described branch of the Unadilla. This was the longest line upon the same point of compass in the county. Its original course was south 27 degrees east. A sketch of the history of this "Line of Property," so often referred to in old Indian treaties and in conveyances, may be interesting. For a great number of years, the want of a settled boundary between the Six Nations and their dependencies, on the one hand, and the colonies of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Mary land, and Virginia, on the other, was the soUrce of many difficulties. These resulted in complaints and outrages on the part of the Indians, and encroachments and wrongs on the part of the whites. For half a century, at nearly every annual meeting of the Indians with the Governor of New York at Albany, these difficulties were the subject of nego tiation and "talk." To remedy these evils, a convention was held at Fort Stanwix, Nov. 5, 1768, in which the colonies were represented by Sir Wm. Johnson, General Indian Agent, Will. Franklin, Governor, and Fre. Smyth, Chief Justice of New Jersey, Thos. Walker, Commissioner for Virginia, Richard Peters and James Tilghman, of the Coun cil of Pennsylvania ; and the Six Nations by Tyorhansere, alias Abraham, Chief of the Mohawks, Canaghaguieson,, of the Oneidas, Seguareesera, of the Tuscaroras, Otslnoghiyata, alias Bunt, of the Onondagas, Tegaaia, of the Cayugas, and Guastrax, of the Senecas. The boundary established be tween the Indians and colonies began at the mouth of the Tennessee (then Cherokee or Hogohege) River, near the junction of the Ohio with the Mississippi, thence up along the south banks of the Ohio to Kittaming, above Fort Pitt 124 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CH.IP. (Pittsburgh), thence to the west branch of the Susquehanna. and across the Alleghany Mountains to the east branch of the Susquehanna, and thence up that branch to the Owegy (Owego), thence to the Delaware River, and up that river to a point opposite where the Tianaderha (the Unadilla) falls into the Susquehanna, thence across to and up the w^est branch of the Unadilla to the head of the same, thence in a straight line to the junction of Canada Creek with Wood Creek, '-at the west ofthe carrying place beyond Fort Stan wix." This was the "Line of Property," but that part of it from the head of the Unadilla in Bridgewater to Wood Creek. is more generally known by that name than the other por tions. The Patent nf Coxeborough, granted soon after wards, extended the entire length of this part of the line, and was bounded upon it on the west After the Revolution. the tracts granted by the Oneidas to this State, were bounded on the east upon this " Line of Property," and in subsequent conveyances, this Line has been constantly referred to, and that too by many who, wondering at the singularity of the term, knew little or nothing of its history. The south part of the Patent of Coxeborough was called, prior to the Revo lution, the township of Carolana, and the north part the Township of Coxeborough, the line between the two being the Oriskany Creek. See notice of Coxeborough at the close of Chapter II. Another small branch of the Unadilla is made from springs, and 'crosses the plank road near the centre of the town. Upon the banks of this stream there is a belt of small cedars, giving it quite a picturesque appearance. The water is so pure, that it is a favorite resort of the speckled trout. In the north-east part of the town is a quarry of excellent limestone for buUding purposes. This quarry extends over Vll.J BRIDGEW.iTErt, 123 some three or four hundred acres, and lies about thirty feet higher than the flats opposite. In the same section, lying higher than the limestone, and upon the farm now owned by l^eleg Babcock, a small quantity of coal has been discovered. The vein is Very thin, and the quantity so limited, that very little hope is entertained of there being sufficient to render it of any importance. According to the theories of geolo gists, this vein seems out of place, "for although vastly higher than the coal region in Pennsylvania, it is too low for eoal. In Dther words, the dip of the coal beds in that State is such, that it -frould rise much above any section of this <-ounty. In the same formation with this stray vein of coal, iron pyrites are found, which are quite inflammable, and burn like wood.'* The hiUs upon the east and west sides of the valley, are quite dissimilar in soil and formation. In the north part of the town, south of the limestone, the side hill contains much slate ; opposite, on the west side of the valley, there is shale. Ou the east hill, the soil is a graVelly loam ; on the west, the soil is clayey. First set-tlement of the town. Iq the year 1788, Joseph Farwell came to the south part nf this town, and commenced a clearing at the place known Sis Farwell's HIU. This was the commencement of the set tlement of Bridgewater. Ezra Parker came later in the same year. In March, 1789, Farwell, in company with Ephraim Waldo and Nathan Waldo, removed their families from Mansfield, Conn., to Farwell's Hill. They came by the way of Albany, up the valley of the Mohawk to Whitesboro, and 126 annals of ONEIDA COUNTY. [clIAP, from thence by the way of Paris Hill to Bridgewater. From Paris Hill they were obliged to make their road as they prooressed. following a line of marked trees. Their team consisted of two yoke of oxen and a horse, and the vehicle au ox sled. They arrived on the 4th of March, The snow at this time was about one and a half feet deep, but soon increased to the depth of four feet. They haS. two cows, which, with the oxen and horse, subsisted until the snow left upon browse alone. Upon their arrival, they erected a shanty in the most primeval style. Four crotches set in the ground, with a roof of split basswood, overlaid with hemlock bpughs, with siding coraposed of coverlets and blankets, formed the first dwelling house ever erected in the town of Bridgewater. The three families continued in this miserable apology for a house until midsummer, when two of them, having more comfortable dwellings provided, removed to them, while the other remained for a year. Farwell's house was of logs, built upon the hill where he commenced the previous season. About three years afterwards, he erected the first framed house in town. Ezra Parker removed with his family into tbe north part of Bridgewater in 1789, and built a log house, which scon afterwards he opened as a " house of entertainment" The same year, a Mr. Lyman settled upon the present location of Parkhurst's tavern. Three or four years subsequently he erected the second framed house in town, and this is the house in which the tavern is now kept by Parkhurst, All the families in town in that year have been named. The first two years, the settlers were obliged to go to Whitestown to mill, a distance of twenty miles, as their circuitous path by marked trees then ran. In 1790, two men of the name of Hubbard settled in the west part of the town. This year l^Iaj, Farwell constructed a saw mill upon the west branch'of VII.J BRIDGEWATER, 127 the Unadilla River, and which stood about three-fourths of a mile below the junction of the West Branch aaad the Tiana- dara Creek, This is propably the same name given above as Tianaderha, slightly changed. In 1791, Jesse Ives, Joel Ives, and Abner Ives, settled upon the hill knows as Ives Hill, where Jesse Ives yet resides. In 1 79-2. Ephraim Waldo built a store and a blacksmith's shop upon Farwell's Hill, and these were the first in town. This j"ear, 31 r. Thonias built the first grist mill in to-wn. upou the same stream and a short distance below Farwell's saw mill. Soon alter the settlement of the town, a son of Ephraim W;Udo. eight years of age, whUe in the woods, discovered n small young bear by the side of a log, asleep. The UttJe boy, intent upon securing the animal, noiselessly retreated until he found a small elm, from whieh, with his Bar/oi'- knife, he succeeded in peeling a piece o£ bark suitable for hi.-* purpose. Having fixed a noose in the end of his lasso, and creeping to the opposite side of the Ic^, he had the good for tune to slip the noose over little Bruin's head, at the same time making sure of his prize by ti^tening the cord so that it could not utter a cry. He was too much of a back-woods man not to know that the dam, in such eases, is always withiu haiUng distance of her young. Then came the "tug of war," in the process of dragging the animal towards home, and whieh manifested the strongest evidence of its not having been previously broken to the halter. The old bear, soon missing her cub, foUowed upon the trail a con siderable distance, until she came to the highway, where, fortunately for the boy. she was discovered and shot by Jesse Waldo. The boy, now free from danger, kept on his way home, where he arrived in safety with his trophy of success in bear huntinir- 'H-IS .ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [clUP. Bridgewater is the smallest town in the county. It is Without four and a bilf mUes in width from north to .south, -aud five and a half in length from east to west. Aocordlng to the last census, it was the smallest in population, contain- ins at that time 1,358 inhabitants. RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES, The Presbyterian Society in this town was constituted March 8, 1798, with thirteen members. In 1805, they erected a house of worship, in which they continued to meet until 1834. The Church was then divided, and a newhouse of worship built at Bridgewater Corners, in the south part of the town. The other portion of the body formed the Cass ville Church, and erected a meeting house at that place. Neither church has now a pastor. The following persons have been pastors of the Bridgewater Church, viz. ; — Rev. John Southworth, Rev. A. Miller, Rev. C. Matchin, and Rev. Edward AUen. Mr. E. Allen was dismissed in the .spring of 1846, went to Wisconsin, where he soon afterwards -a.- therefore given to the Rev. John Barton, which was ac cepted, and he was duly instaUed. He continued his labor.-^ -R-ith them for eight years, and was an instrumeni; of much good to the people of his charge. During this term, there were 1"20 additions. 97 were dismissed, and 23 died. At the insiaUation of ?Ir. Barton, the ehurch numbered 325 mem bers. His labors closed in the faU of 1S44. He was suc ceeded by the Rev. R. Richard Kirk, who was instaUed Oct. 7. 154-5. Mr. Kirk continues his labors -with encouraging prospects, and enjoys the confidence of a large and respec table congregation. Thirty-five have been added to the ehurch since the commencement of his labors, and at this time it numbers 325 members. A few incidents -wUl close the history of this church. Mr.-; Thankful Northrop, one of the pioneers in the settlement of Camden, and one of the original members of the churcli 138 ANNALS OF OJfEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. when organized at Paris Hill,i(she was then the wife of Noah Tuttle,) is yet a frequent attendant at church, and a regular meinber of the Sunday School.* Since 1815, the church has experienced eighteen extensive revivals, and has received about 1,100 members, a large majority of whom have changed their relation, to bear tes timony in other spheres to the truths of the Gospel, and the blessings of its institutions. At an early period the society received a donation of land from the heirs of Mr, John Murray, the avails of which produce an annual income of $112, This fund is perpetual, " Since penning the above, the writer has received the intelli gence that this good old lady has gone to her rest. She died the nth of February, 1819, being her birth-do.y. having completed her Slth year. IX.J DEERFIELD. 139 CHAPTER IX. DEERFIELD. By an act of the Legislature, passed March 15, 1798, the County of Oneida was taken from Herkimer County, with its eastern boundary commencing on the south-east corner of the town of Bridgewater, and running north on the east line of Bridgewater to the south-east corner of Paris, thence on the same line continued on the east line of Paris and Whites- town, to the southerly line of Oosby's Manor. Thus far, the eounty line was upon the original line of Whitestown, as established in 1788. Commencing on the southerly line of Cosby's Manor, the -county line diverged from the original line of Whitestown, by running north-easterly in a direct line to the northerly bounds of Cosby's Manor at a point where the same is intersected by the division line between Gage's and Walton's Patents, thence northerly upon the line between Walton's and Gage's Patents to the West Canada Creek, thence northerly up the waters of said creek to the forks thereof, cfec. The line of the county thus di verging from the original line of Whitestown, left portions of the towns of Frankfort and Schuyler in the county of Oneida. The act then proceeded to annex the part so left of Frankfort to Whitestown, and then organized the town of Deerfield of the part taken from Schuyler, providing that the first town meeting should be held at the house of Ezra Payne. The author has been thus particular in the descrip- 140 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CIIAP. tion of this line, from the fact that heretofore there has been some uncertainty in the minds of a portion of the early set tlers of the county as to when, and how, the east line of Whitestown (which crossed the Mohawk at the fording plaoe now the foot of Genesee street, Utica) had been carried far ther east than it ran originally. The history of the first settlement of Deerfield contains much of Interest. In 1773, George 'J. Weaver, Capt Mark Damoth, and Christian Reall, moved to the vicinity of Deerfield Corners, built themselves log houses, and commenced clearing awa}- the forest. Little is known of their trials and hardships up to 1776. Like a large proportion of the Dutch on the Jilohawk, these settlers were staunch Whigs. Not having the sign of being tories at their doors, (this sign was the soull bone of a horse upon the top of a stake), they were marked for the firebrand and the scalping knife. In the summer of 1776 an Indian, believed to have been an Oneida. and who for some cause had received the sobriquet of Blue Back, was hunting northwardly from the settlement, and in the vicinity of Canada Creek. While thus occupied he came upon a party of tories and Indians, who were very particular in their inquiries respecting the little settlement at the Corners. Blue Back gave such answers as he chose, and the party proceeded in the direction of the settlement After they were out of sight. Blue Black, who was well acquainted with, and the fast friend of the settlers, and boding no good to them from the visit they were about to receive, determined to apprize them of their danger. For this purpose, being well acquainted with the intervening hills, swamps, and thickets, with aU the rapidity of the Indian scout, he hasted to their settlement, and gave them timely warning of their danger. Soon their scanty furniture was hidden in the forest, and rx.] DEERFIELD. 141 the women and children, in a wagon, accompanied by the men on foot, were rapidly wending their way to Little Stone Arabia, a small fort, which was situated in the present town of Schuyler. The time was but brief ere the Indians and tories were in the settlement, but " the birds had flown," and nothing was left upon which to vent their disappointed spite, •except the empty dwellings. To these the bra^nd was ap plied, and their charred ruins were all that was left of the first settlement of Deerfield. If thus successful in their escape were these pioneers, yet in the succeeding troublous times of the Revolution, two of them at least came in for a full share of the suffering which fell so heavily upon the good Dutch inhabitants of the Mohawk valley. Mr. Damoth, who had previously resided at Herkimer, returned to that place, and soon afterwards reoeived a Captain's commission in a company of rangers. In an attack upon that plaee, he had an arm so shattered, that it never afterwards entirely recovered, and on account of which he received a pension to the close of his life. Mr. Weaver was hardly as fortunate. He was taken pri soner near Herkimer, by a party of tories and Indians, and from thence, by the way of Oswego, was taken to Canada. He was kept in such close confinement in the prison at ¦Quebec, that for nine months he never saw the sun, moon, or stars. From Quebec he was taken to England, where, after having been a prisoner for more than two years, he was ex changed, and returned to his native valley. In the summer of 1784, as a singular coincidence, after all the casualties of war, when it could be truly said, "there was scarcely an indi-ridual in the whole Mohawk valley who had not mourned a father, mother, brother, daughter, or lover slain," after the guns of the tories, and the firebrand, toma hawk, and scalping knife of the less savage Indians had ren- 142 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. dered this beautiful and fertile valley almost a desert waste. these three first settlers and their families were again united upon their old farms, planting and gathering crops in the same fields their own hands had cleared, at Deerfield Cor ners. About the same time, Peter Weaver, Nicholas Weaver, George Weaver (originally spelt Weber), George Damoth, Nicholas Harter, and Philip Harter, arrived and settled in the neighborhood. Of these, Nicholas Harter only survives, and now (autumn of 1850), at the age of ninety years, im the enjoyment of a green old age, with, apparently, but few of the infirmities of so long a life, he is left to recount the sufferings, trials, exploits, and incidents of the Revolution to a new generation. He was born at Her kimer, and although but a lad, was familiar with the paths to old Forts Schuyler and Stanwix, and the settlement at Deerfield, prior to the war. He married the daughter of Capt. Damoth (Damoot as pronounced by the Dutch, and Damewood by the early New England settlers). With a hearty laugh he related to the writer a "scrape'' he once witnessed in the Mohawk, near the foot of Genesee street, Utica. A few days after the Oriskany battle, a party started from the Mohawk settlements with a number of beef cattle for the garrison at Fort Stanwix, and several women took this opportunity of an escort to visit their hus bands who belonged to the garrison ; the women on horse back, while the cattle drivers were on foot Upon arriving at the fording place in the Mohawk at the point named, and as one of the women was descending the steep bank to the river, a brawny Dutchman, who did not wish to wet his feet, jumped upon the horse's back, behind the woman. The horse, offended either on account of this unceremonious ac cession to his load, or else the reversed order in whieh his cargo was arranged, sprang forward, and by "a weU-directed IX.J DEERFIELD. 14S effort," threw the- Dutchman into the centre of the stream, whUe the woman landed in safety. The early settlement of Deerfield was confined to that portion of the to-wn lying in the Mohawk valley, and the hill sides adjoining. The Coxes and Coffins settled in the north part of the town, near Canada Creek, some fifteen or twenty years afterwards. Reall's Creek is the smaU mUl stream that rises in the high land between Canada Creek and the Mohawk, and running past the Corners, empties into the Mohawk. It received its name from the ReaU mentioned as one of the first settlers ; his first house, which was burnt by the Indians. stood' upon its bank. His second house is yet standing. In 1792, the first bridge was erected over the Mohawk, between Utica and Deerfield. To insure more help, it was raised on Sunday. Creorge M. Weaver, son of George J. Weaver, and iis wife, with their Uttle son, the present George M. Weaver, of Deerfield, were on their way to the raising, and when about halfway from the Corners to Utica, and some twenty or thirty rods above the present McAdam road, their dog treed a bear. Mr. Weaver left his wife and son with the dog, to keep the animal up the tree, while he retumed for his gun. The pecuUar barking of the dog had apprised the inhabitants of " Old Fort Schuyler," that valu able game was on foot, and a number of them arrived with their guns at about the same time that Mr. Weaver re turned. Four or five shots were made ia quick succession. and poor Bruin's life paid the forfeit for- bis temerity in approaching so near the site of an embryo city. Dr. Francis Guiteau -\ras elected first Supervisor, and Isaac Brayton Town Clerk. The intervale land, so celebrated as the Mohawk Flats, is alluvial, and the soil such as is common to bottom land. 144 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. Baek from this is a gravelly plain, naturally good for grain ; but too much cropping, with too little manure, has in many instances rendered it less productive than it should be. From this plain rises, and in some places quite abruptly, the high land adverted to, between the Mohawk and West (Canada Creek, knOWn as Deerfield Hill. This high land is better adapted to grass than grain. The forests of this high land have for many years supplied Utica with a large por tion of its fuel, but these have now almost disappeared, and but a few years will elapse before, instead of taking wood to Utica, coal will have to be brought for home consumption. Deerfield Corners is a village of considerable business, containing a dry goods store, a number of groceries, and a tavern. Between the Corners and Utica, nearly all the bricks used for building in the city of Utica have been made. They are made from the alluvial deposits of the Mohawk, and are durable weather bricks. RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. The contiguity of the thicklj'-settled portion of this town to Utica, where large congregations of the different denomi nations assemble regularly for worship, has caused quite a proportion of the church-going population of this town to join the different societies in that city. The Baptists gathered a church in 1798; the second or third Baptist Church organ ized within the limits of the county, and erected a hotise of worship a short distance below the .Corners. Elder Oded Eddy was ordained about this tjme, and became the first pastor of this church, which relation he sustained for twenty- four years. From the causes mentioned, this body has lost its visibUity, but the denomination hold meetings occasionally J.X.J DEERFIELD. 145 in their house. Elder John Leland, a man of extended fame for his strong native powers of mind ; and as a preacher, statesman, and politician, when upon visits to his son, John D, Leland, Esq., preached in this place ; and it is needless to say, that if timely notice was given, a large audience was insured. The Methodists also hold meetings occasionally in the B-aptist meeting house. The North Deerfield and South Trenton Baptist Church reported fifty-four members in 1850. -Rev, Albert Cole pastor. Elder A. F. Rockwell (now of Utica) was pas tor in 1841; Elder S. S. Hayward from 1842 to 1844; Elder Nelson Ferguson in 1845-6 ; Elder Wm. A WeUs in 3S47-9. The services of the church are divided between North Gage in Deerfield, and South Trenton. Of the his tory of this church prior to 1841, the author has obtained no particulars. In 1845, this town had 2,347 inhabitants, and contained one grist mill, eight saw mills, one fulling mill, and one card ing machine, besides various mechanics' shops. There are n^o factories in this town. 10 146- ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. CHAPTER X. FLORENCE. The settlement of this town was commenced in the fall of 1801. At this time Amos Woodworth, father of the Hon, Amos Woodworth now residing in the town, settled within about half a mile of its north line. John Bpinning. at about the same time, settled on what is now known as the State Road, two mUes south-easterly from Florence village ; and a Mr. Turner also, at about the same time, moved into the town. These three settlers had each fifty acres of land given them by WUliam Henderson, of the city of New York, who had previously purchased the fourth township of Scriba's Patent. The land was given as a bonus to induce them to commence the settlement of the township. Perhaps there werj3 others who had land given them, but of this no satisfac tory information has been obtained. Very shortlv after these first settlers had moved into the town, Azariah Orton, a Mr. Cra-wford and his son Clark Cra-wford, aud Norman Waugh, settled in the south part of the town, and Benoni Barlow, Ebenezer Barlow, Ambrose Curtiss, Ephraim Wright, Joseph Olcott, and Benjamin Youngs, settled on that part of the town known as " Florence HiU." Nathan Thompson, who for many years kept a pubUc house in what is now known as East Florence, and who was succeeded in the tavern by his son Aaron H. Thompson, X.J FLORENCE. 147 Esq., visited the town in 1801, but did not arrive with his family until the 6th of May of the next spring. The settlement of this town, in common with the north ern tier of towns, progressed more slowly than the other sections of the County, Indeed, until within the last ten years, quite a portion of the land had not been purchased by actual settlers. In general the land is cold, and there is but occasionally a year in which Indian corn comes to matu rity. With but few exceptions, the soil is stony, and in many instances after cultivation the land is almost covered with cobble and flat stones, a large portion of which are too small to make permanent wall for fences. The town is better for grazing than grain. Where the farmers have turned their attention to dairying, they have been successful, and it is believed that eventually, this town will furnish a fair pro portion of butter and cheese for market. Being elevated, with a clear, bracing atmosphere, and pure water, it is un usually healthy. Within the last three years, the author was at Florence Hill. When about to start to go down to the village, a fine rosy faced little boy of some twelve or fourteen summers, very politely asked if he could ride about two miles. The request was granted. He was intelligent and communicative. In reply to inquiries in relation to the productions of the soil, he said, " grass did very well, they could not raise much corn, oats did a little better, that the land was so cold they could not raise much grain of any kind, but then it is very li^althy}'' There was a moral to be gleaned from the closing remark ofthe boy. How little can be enjoyed,- in a country, let the soil be ever so rich, and its productions luxuriant, if obtained by the sacrifice of health, and how sweet the coarsest food if seasoned with a good appetite. We could not help internally saying, — that is right my little fellow, always look at the bright side of the picture. 148 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. There is a quarry of good building stone on Little River, about half a mile below Florence village. The town is hilly, but not mountainous. It is well watered with numerous springs and -streams. Mad River is the most considerable stream in the town. It enters on its north line, and flowing quite through the town of Florence, passes into the town of Camden some little distance above Camden village. It is but a small stream where it enters the town, but swelled by its numerous little tributaries from the hUl country on either side, it leaves the town a very considerable stream for water power. Littlo River is the name of the stream on which Florence village is situated. Although not large, still from its extensive fall, it is capable of turning quite an amount of machinery. It must not be confounded with its namesake which empties into Mad River from the west, between Camden village and McConnelsville. This Florence Little River which empties into Mad River on its easterly side, adds still more to the singularity of the names of the streams in the ' Fish Creek Nation," as this portion of the county has sometimes been called. Mad River, two Little Rivers, with numerous smaller streams united, meet Fish Creek at the Forks, when conjointly, they form but a creeh to the Oneida Lake, By the act organizing the town of Florence, the first town meeting was to be held at the house of John Spinning. The town meeting was held agreeably to the terms of the act, on ..the first Tuesday in April, 1805. The meeting was held in a small framed house in which Mr, Spinning kept a tavern ; with its moss-grown roof it is yet standing. It is on the east side of the State Road, about two miles south-easterly from Florence vUlage, and can readily be distinguished by the traveller by a large ornamental pine, that stands in such close contiguity as to nearly or quite touch one of its corners. At X.J FLORENCE. 149 the first town meeting, Asa Jenkins was eleeted Supervisor. and David Young, Town Clerk. Mr. Jenkins held the office for six successive years. Then Benoni Barlow was elected at nine succeeding town meetings. It seems at the close of Sir. Barlow's services there was a vacancy, whether from his resignation or removal, does not appear by the records. Samuel Stanford was elected at a special town meeting to fill the vacancy, and served that and the succeeding year. Then Calvin Dawley held the office for five years, Amos Wood- wort'a (Junior) six years, Simon Davis two years, Charles Curtiss two years, Safford S. Delano two j'cars, Nathan Thompson one year, Varnum Dunton one year, Anthony Jilmpey two years, Daniel G. Dorrence two years, Watson S amnions one year, Aaron H. Thompson three years, and John Downes, Jun., was elected in 1851, who is the present incumbent. The toivn owns the basement of the Baptist Churcli in the village, and use it for all town purposes, such as elections, 1 -iwn meetings,, etc. Florence village is a small but thriving village, centrally located in the town. It contains between fifty and sixty dwelling hduses, and about 300 inhabitants. It has two physicians, and a Catholic clergyman, three dry goods stores, one drug store, one clothing store attached to a tailor's slio'p, (wo blacksmith shops, two wagon and sleigh makers' shops, four boot and shoe shops, one harness and saddler's shop, and one cabinet shop. There are also in the limits of the village one grist aud three saw mills. Its largest source of prosperity is its tanneries, the most extensive of which was formerly known as Stranahan's, but for the last three years owned and worked by the Hon. Lewis Rider, the present member of Assembly from the third district in this county. He has nearly or quite doubled the 150 ANNALS OF O.VEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. amount of business since he commenced, three years since. He employs from fifteen to twenty-five hands through the year. The present year he will tan from 26,000 to 28,000 sides of sole leather. This is done on commission. He has on hand at the close of the winter of 1851, over 3,000 cords of hemlock bark. This cost two dollars per cord delivered. He uses also from 1,000 to 1,200 cords of wood in a year. The water power is insufficient to grind the large amount of bark needed in the establishment, so that recourse is had to a steam power for the remainder. Mr. John Sliter has a smaller tannery in which he man ufactures both upper and sole leather. He tans 1,200 sides of sole, and 400 sides of upper and harness leather. 400 skins. and uses 150 cords of bark the present year. RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. The first church organization in the town of Florence was a Congregational Church on Florence Hill, December 16, 1816. At the time of its formation, it consisted of ten members- three males and seven females. When constituted, it -was on the congregational plan of government, but early joined the Presbytery on the accommodation system. It had so increased, that it reported to the Presbytery, January 1, 1829, sixty- eight communicants, in 1832 and in 1834, seventy-two in eaoh year. From this time it declined in numbers until 1845, when it reported but forty members. From the time of its formation up to 1825, the church had no pastor, but was supplied with preaching quite a portion of the time by clergymen employed for different lengths of time. Oetober 7, 1825, they gave the Rev. Samuel Sweezy a call to settle with them. A society in connection with the church was X.J FLORENCE. 151 formed January 26, 1 826, and forthwith became incorporated under the statute. Mr. Sweezy, having accepted the call was installed March 8, 1826. At a society meeting, held February 6, 1826, a vote of thanks to Gerrit Smith was passed, " for furnishing part of the glass, a site for the meet ing house, a liberal lot for a burying place, thirty acres of land for the benefit of the society, fifty acres to the Rev. Samuel Sweezy, and a subscription of ten dollars a year for the support of the Gospel." In 1825, the meeting house on the hill was commenced, but was not completed under two or three years. The Rev. Mr. Sweezy now resides in Camden, and the church has lost its visibility. Methodist Episcopal. — There are no records of this deno mination to be found earlier than 1832, still it had organiza tions in the town of a mueh earlier date. The first class formed was on the Hill, and about thirty- five years since. For a time it flourished, and then for quite a space it languished, but of late has revived In the village there is a elass of about thirty years' standing. They have a small, yet neat and convenient, chapel for worship, which was erected in 1833. There is another elass in the town, of about thirty years' standing, on Mad River, which meets about three miles below the village. For a time it has been in a low state. Although not large, all of tliese classes are now active, flourishing, and prosperous. Baptists. — There was a chureh of this denomination formed in this town previous to 1828, but the precise time of its organisation can not be ascertained. In that year it belonged to the Oneida Baptist Association, and reported to that body twenty-four members, and- that Roger Maddoek, a 152 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. licentiate, was preaching to them. Mr. Maddoek labored with this church untU 1831, when he was returned as an ordained preacher. In 1835 it reported sixty-four members, and James B. Olcott as preacher. This was the largest number to which it arrived. in 1836, Denison Alcott, a licentiate, as preacher, and fifty-three members. In 1837, Benjamin Fuller as preacher, and fifty-five members. Mr. Fuller continued his labors to this people for a nuniber of years. The last time this body reported to the Association was in 1841, when it had become reduced to thirty-four members. For a number of years it has lost its visibility. In its palmy days it erected a very respectable house for worship in the village. In 1833, the denomination started a school for the edu cation of young men, combining somewhat of the manual labor system. In 1834, they erected a large three story .stone building for the school. The school, however, prospered for but ,i few years, and at length was discontinued for want of patron age. Some few years since, the Catholics purchased this building for a church, and it is now surmounted with a cross. At this time a majority of the inhabitants of Florence are Catholics, and the clergyman of that denomination iu Florence village is the only one sustained in the town. Reminiscences. — The name of Nathan Thompson, one of the early settlers of Florence, who moved into the town iu the spring of 1802, has been mentioned. Hewas a native of New London, Ct., but had lived the most of his life time until his removal, in Sandisfield, Mass. When he arrived, there was but one house between that of John W. Blaam- X.J FLORENCE. 153 field, Esq., at what is now Taberg, and the house of John Spinning, two miles easterly from Florence village, a dis tance, by the route then travelled, of about twenty-two miles. The name of this settler was John Rogers. Mr. Thompson says he had to depend entirely upon wild game for his supply of animal food. With his gun he selected with eare the fattest and sleekest from the numerous herd of deer that then abounded in the forest. The 1 1th of July, 1809, was an eventful day to our settler. Indeed, the preservation of his life would seem almost mira culous. He was engaged in drawing wood to his door, with a single horse, by draughts. When about to hitch the chain to one, the horse started, and the hook of the chain caught through the flesh, and taking up the tendons under his left knee. Thus fastened, the beast drew him at full speed along a crooked path, over knolls, and through the mire, a distance of twenty-five rods, when it was brought to a pause by a fence that crossed the track, but was evidently preparing to leap it, when JMr. Thompson, whose presence of mind had not forsaken him, disengaged the hook before the plunge, and thus escaped almost certain death. He was taken into the house, and was ' confined to his bed four months. The wound was a most frightful one, of full ten inches in length, while the tendons were loosened from their ligaments from the knee to the heel. His back and arms were terribly lacerated. The celerity of the ride was such, that some persons who soon examined the route, found that in a number of instances he cleared by actual measure ment ten feet at a bound. The hideous scar attests in full the truth of the statement. The sterility of the soil has been noticed. The following ludicrous description of the failure of a portion of the first settlers, it is presumed, will not be entirely uninteresting to 154 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cll.iP. the reader. The author travelled through this town in Junc, 1813, and called at Thompson's tavern to refresh himself and beasts. Our landlord was busy in attending to the out-door duties of the establishment, while his good lady assumed oceasionally some of the duties in the bar. Between Fish Creek and our stopping place, we had observed that about one half of the log domicUs had been abandoned, and were tenant- less. The landlady was appealed to for the reasons for so general a desertion. With much sang-froid she replied, " that some were too lazy to work and had to clear out to keep from starving, others of this class, rather than starve, would steal a yoke of oxen, and they had to be sent to State's Prison, but the greater part faUed, in not knowing how to farm it on such land, for they did not know that sorrel seed was worth more to them by the bushel than clover seed, because more natural to the soil." In 1845 there were two grist mills, ten saw mUls. and three asheries in the town. .XI.J CHAPTER XI. FLOYD. Tins town was named in honor of^General Williani Floyd. one of the signers of the Declaration of Independoneo. a sketch of Vhose biography is given in the history of the town of Western, Chap. XXVII. Gen. Floyd was the owner by purchase of considerable land in this town in Fonda's Patent. and among which were a 500 acre lot, upon which '¦ Floyd Corners" is located; also auother 500 acre lot, and quite a number of other lots ; but how mueh iu the aggregate, has not been ascertained. After making the most careful arid diligeut inquirj-. the author has been unable to ascertain the year in which thi first settler moved into the town, or the name of the pioneer who led in advance the "forlorn hope" into its forests. However, from the best information obtained, it is probable that Capt. Benjamin Pike was the first settler, and that he removed into the to-wn in the year 1790. Not much later, however, Stephen Moulton, the younger, settled in the town. Shortly after, but in what year could not be ascertained. William Allen, Nathaniel Allen, and James Chase, .nrrived in the town together. Mrs. Allen, the relict of William Allen, is yet living. She says that when they arrived, Capt. Benjamin Pike, Elisha Lake, and a man named Howard. resided below the present residence of Linus Moulton. At a very early period, two brothers of the name of Howard 156 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. resided about half a mile east of the Corners. Not much later, Hope Smith settled in the town. He was the father of Stephen R. Smith, one of the earliest and most popular Universalist preachers in the county. David Byam, James Bartlett, and a Mr. Putney, were the earliest settlers in the north part of the town. Jarvis Pike, a son of Capt. Benjamin Pike, if he did not move into the town with his father, very soon followed him.* As early as February, 1795, the different members of the Moulton family from Stafford, Connecticut, had settled in this town. As before mentioned, Stephen Moulton the younger was among the earliest settlers. Within 'five years after his arrival, his father, Stephen Moulton, and four other sons, Salmon, Joseph, Benjamin, and Ebenezer, had moved into the town. Stephen, Sen., and Stephen, Jun., and Joseph and Benjamin (twins), are dead. The obituary of Stephen the younger is given at the close of this chapter. Salmon, now ninety-three years of age, and Ebenezer, aged eighty-one years, yet reside in the town. Salmon (May, 1851) enjoys good health, but is so far deprived of hearing, that the author, after repeated efforts, gave up in despair of gleaning from the fund of important reminiscences he pos sessed of the early settlement of Floyd. The Moulton family were among the staunchest Whigs of the Revolution in the land of " steady habits," and sacrificed much in the cause of their country. Salmon was taken prisoner on Long Island, and suffered all the horrors of a confinement in the '¦ Sugar House," a place more noted for the suffering of its inmates than the "Black Hole" of Calcutta, because more protracted. A more particular notice of the sufferings of the * A lease was shown the author, executed hy -William Floyd to .Tarvis Pil;e, of a lot northerly from the " Cbrners," dated at AVhites. town, Herkimer County, October 26, 1793. Xt.J FLOYD. 157 American prisoners in the " Sugal* House," is given in the history of Westmoreland, in speaking of Capt Phineas Bell. 3Ir. Moulton was kept so short of provisions, that he and hia compatriots used to chew pieces of the oak staves of the sugar casks left in their prison, for the little nutriment they contained. His father. Col. Stephen Moulton, was after- wards taken prisoner at (as is understood) Fort Washington, aud there confined. After a tedious confinement in the ¦• Sugar House," Salmon was paroled to leave for Fort Wash ington, and soon after both father and son were paroled to go to their homes. William Allen, Esq., whose name has beeu introduced as one of the earliest settlers of this town, died about seven years since. His former acquaintances assured the writer, that if he had been applied to while living, a much more perfect early history of Floyd could have been obtained than from any source now left, as his retentive memory was well stored with mueh that was useful and entertaining. Samuel Dyer, Esq., was one of the early settlers of this town. After a number of years' residence, he sold his farm, •and removed to what is now the town of Marcy. He was a man of great good sense, yet it seems that neither Philomela nor Orpheus had very nicely attuned his ear to the harmony of "sweet sounds." Upon one occasion. Esquire Dyer was at the office of the late Thomas R. Gold, in Whitesboro, 3Ir. Gold had just purchased for his daughters a piano, which was among the first, if not the first, brought into the county. Mr. Gold gave Esquire Dyer an invitatioii to go to his house, to listen to the music of the instrument. The invitation was accepted, although it is probable no very rich treat was anticipated. AwhUe the "many strings'' of the instrument were made to vibrate the richest music, from the delicate touches of the daughter. Mr, Gold, in raptures, 158 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. asks his guest if he had ever heard such charming music before. " Yes, yes," was the prompt reply. What could it have been ? was now asked, and the response given, " That of half a dozen men whetting their scythes in my meadow before breakfast." Captain Nathan Townsend moved into Floyd in 1801, and settled upon the farm now owned and occupied by his son, William Townsend, in the south-easterly part of the town. This farm was purchased of Governor George Clinton, who had previously purchased the whole of Sumner's Patent, which was located between Holland Patent and Fonda's Patent. Gen. Floyd's purchases were made from the last- named Patent, which was located in the central and westerly parts of the town. Previous to Capt. Townsend's purchase of this lot, one Turner Ellis had been in possession of it, as a squatter. Capt. Townsend is yet living at Holland Patent village, aged eighty -six. He has had seven sons, viz. : — Gardner, who resides near Holland Patent ; William, who resides on the homestead in Floyd; Halsey, who died at the South : Palmer, an extensive importing hard-ware merchant in New York ; Ingham, a large farmer, who resides upon the road from Floyd Corners to Holland Patent ; Nathaniel, a resident of New Orleans ; and Nathan, a resident of Cam den, in this county. Thomas Bacon was an early settler in that part of the town known as Floyd HilL For a time this locality was known as Bacon's Hill, from this early inhabitant. Sainuel Cummings was also a very early settler upon the Hill. Geology. — There is nothing peculiar in the geological formation of this town, there being neither ores, minerals, or XI.J FLOYD. 159 stone quarries within its limita. The extensive quarries of stone at StittviUe, and other parts of Trenton, in the im^ mediate vicinity of Floyd, together with the liberal supply of bowlders upon the Hill, in a good degree remedy the lack of building stones. If ever the lake existed, from the Little Falls uniting with the Oneida Lake, its northern shore must have been a little north of the site of the road running from Floyd Corners to Holland Patent. The indications are here strongly in favor of. the speculation. There are no better or more beautiful farms in Oneida County than those upon this road. Judging from their high state of cultivation, the symmetry, and good condition- of the farms, the elegance and convenience of their buildings, their owners are not only thriving, but wealthy. From this sec tion to the summit of the Hill, the land is better for pastur age and dairying than for grain, and the agriculturalists are adapting their farming to their soil, and thrift is manifest in their progress. The -first death in the limits of the town, was that of a Mr. Foster, who died from disease. The second was that of Nathan Thompson, who was killed while falling a tree. In the latter part of the summer of 1796, the dysentery pre vailed among the few inhabitants ofthe town. Col. Stephen Moulton, Sen., lost his wife, and his son Benjamin lost three children, with this disease. The four died within the same week. The town of Floyd was taken from Steuben, and organized by an act of the Legislature, passed March 4, 1796, its first town meeting to be held at the house of Samuel J, Curtiss. The first town meeting was held the same spring, and Stephen Moulton, Sen,, was elected Supervisor, and Moses Coffeen Town Clerk. The town records for 1797 are lost. 160 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY, [cUAP, In 1798 and 1799, Abel French held the office of Super visor. In 1800, Jarvis Pike was elected Supervisor, and held the office for eleven successive years. Since that period, the following persons have held the office for the terms specified: In 1812, Nathan Townsend, Sen. In 1813, Ephraim Robbins was elected, and held the office until 1819 inclusive. In 1820 and 1S21, Nathan Townsend again. In 1822, 1S23, and 1824, Ephraim Robbins again. From 1825 to 1832 inclusive, Salmon Pelton, and from 1833 to 1837 iia- elusive, David Moulton were elected. In 1838 and 1839, Samuel C. Brooker. In 1840, 1841, and 1842. David Moul ton again. In 1843 and 1844, Hosea Clark. In 1845. David iloulton -was again elected, and has been re-elected in each year to the present time (1851), making fifteen years that the present incumbent has held the office. The first tavern in the town was kept at the Corners, by Capt. Benjamin Pike. -He kept it, however, but for a short time, and was succeeded by Moses Coffeen, who continued in *he business at that place for several years. RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES, AND HOUSES POR PUBLIC WORSHIP. At the Corners there is a very respectable "Union" house for public worship. The articles of agreement under which this house was erected, are quite peculiar. Each slip iu the house has an appraised and relative value, and is trans ferable by purchase. On the first Monday in January in each year, the proprietors meet, and each has a right to de signate the denomination he wishes to occupy the house during the year. After a list is thus completed, it is ascer tained, in proportion to the value of the slips owned, what I XL J FLOYD. 161 proportion eaoh denomination shall occupy for the ensuing year. Some years, the Presbyterians, Baptists, Methodists, and UniversaUsts, have each put in their claims, and had the house in proportion. The present year (1851), the Meth odists have the house three-fourths, and the Baptists one- fourth, qf the time. As far as ascertained, the action of the proprietors has been quite harmonious, however unique their model. The Baptists have a small meeting house upon the Hill, where they maintain worship when they do not occupy the house at the Corners. This Church was organized in 1807, under the care of Elder Simeon Jacobs, and in 1816 num bered eighty-three members, of whom twenty-two had been baptized the preceding year. From that time, for many years, no materials for its history have been found. Elder R. Z. Williams was pastor in 1841 and 1842, Elder Isaiah Matteson in 1843, Elder V. D. Waters in 1844, Elder Josiah Hatt in 1846, and Elder Thomas Applegate in 1847. In 1850 61 member^ were reported. The Welsh Methodists and the Welsh Presbyterians h.ive each a small house for worship on the Hill. And here, as in other sections of the county where the Welsh have settled, they maintain their national character, in sustaining -the public worship of the God of their fathers. The common schools in Floyd have been well sustained and flourishing, until that unequal law, termed the " Free School Law," was passed in 1849. Since then, they have but shared the calamity with all the towns in the State, of having the cause of popular education rapidly retrograde. There are nine school districts, and parts of districts, in the town. 11 162 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Floyd Corners is the only place in the town which aspires to the dignity of being termed a village. Here are a small collection of dwelling houses and mechanic shops, a church, school house, store, and tavern. The Floyd post office is kept here ; it is the only office in the town. The Nine MUe Creek forms a portion of the southern boundary, and passes through a small section of the south west part of the town. The first mill erected in Floyd was upon this stream, at a location known as the Punch Bowl. According to the census of 1845, there were, at that time, one grist mill and three saw mills in the town. The following obituaries of early settlers in Floyd were published at the time they boar date in the 'Rome Sentinel, and are copied -with the belief they will be interesting to the reader. "Died, in Floyd, on the 12th of December, 1849, Mr. Samuel Denison, aged 76 years. "Mr. Denison was one ofthe early settlers of this county, having resided, we think, on the same farm for almost half a century. Al though not the first, the to-H'n of Floyd was one ofthe earliest settled towns in the county ; but its pioneers, many of whom have lived to a good old age, are dropping away, and a few years more will have removed all of them from the scenes of their early adventures, and the home of their manhood and old age. Mr. Denison located in Floyd in the year 1800, or forty-nine years ago. Several othere came about the same time, a few prior to his arrival, and others soon after ; but we regret that we have not the information necessary to a correct account of the men and the occurrences of that early period. " Among the tirst settlers were Nathan Townsend, James Chase, Nathaniel and -William Allen, Latham and Samuel Denison, Salmon Moulton, and, we believe, also the grandfather of Col. David. Moul ton, whose flrst name we do not now remember. There are doubtless several others, whose names will occur to those longer and better acquainted with the early history of the town. These settlements were made in different parts of the town, while it was yet a wilder ness, and while the whole county was nearly in the same condition. There were settlements of several years' standing in -Whitestown, (by which name all the county north and west of Utica was then called,) XT.J FLOYD. 163 Fort Stanwix, (now Rome,) 'Western, Westmoreland, etc. ; but the population was sparse, and neighbors few and far between. It was at that day not unusual for the citizens of Floyd to go with ox teams to 'Western, Lee, and other distant towns, to meeting, a task which our present inhabitants would hardly feel wiUing to accomplish. " Of the pioneer settlers named above, only two now remain, Mr. Salmon Moulton and Capt. To-wnsend, ihe former still residing in I'loyd, and the latter at Holland Patent, having retired from his farm several years ago. Mr. Chase died many years ago, the two Jlr. Aliens about six years since, at an advanced age, and Mr. Latham Denison some four or flve years ago. Mr. Samuel Denison, whose recent death has led to this brief and imperfect narrative, had con tinued to reside on the farm where he first located, and to enjoy the esteem and respect of his townsmen and acquaintance, until his death on Tuesday last His health had for the past three or four years been seriously impaired, although such as to admit of the superin tendence of his farm and business affairs. He was celebrated for the skill and intelligence with which he conducted his farm, and for many years has been a constant subscriber to agricultural papers, which he has perused with much interest, while those younger and less experienced have steadily rejected all such aids. "How few of our first settlers, of those who cleared up the wil- derness, and who hav6 literally made this county to " bud and blos som like the rose," now remain among us. Let us appreciate the services, the toils, and privations, as well as imitate the virtues of those who have departftd, while we respect and minister to the com fort of those who remain among us." " Another Revolutionary Patriot Gone. — Died, at his residence in Floyd, N. Y., on the. 1st of February, 1851, Stephen Moulton, for merly from Staiford, Ct., aged 91 years, of inflammation of the lungs. " He was a member of the celebrated band of musicians of the Revolutionary army, under Mr. Timothy 01m«tead. He emigrated to Floyd sixty-one years since, was one of the pioneer settlers of the county, and has occupied the same farm from that period. He was never sick until his last sickness, but at all times enjoyed health and vigor during a long life, and often boasted that ' the doctors were no richer for him, as he never took a portion of their medicine.' He was very spry and active to an advanced age, and at the season, walked over in the morning from his dwelling to this village, [Rome,] some seven miles, priding himself upon being the first to execute his pension papers, on the 4th of March and September. He was 164 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. lionest and particular in his business transactions, and very cautious and unwilling to contract a debt ; was a kind, considerate, and obliging neighbor, husband, and father. He had the happy faculty to ' drive away dull care,' ahd always a fund of anecdotes to instruct and amuse those around him, enjoying, as he w-as wont, a hearty laugh with unmeasured satisfaction. His death occurred about four -weeks after the attack, and such -was the strength of his constitution, that his muscular powers were in some force for twelve or fifteen hours after his pulse had apparently ceased." XII.J KIRKLAND. 165 CHAPTER XII. KIRKLAND. This is a most interesting section of the county. Its college and seminaries of learning render it, not only the literary and scientific emporium of Oneida County, but of central New York. The religious societies of the town are llf the highest order, and their early records show them as models for tiieir cotemporaries and successors. The settlement of this town was commenced in March, 1787, the first emigration having consisted of eight families. Some little uncertainty exists as to the names of all the lieads of these eight families, but as to five of them there is no dispute. Moses Foot and his three sons, Bronson, Luther, and Ira, and his son-in-law Barnabas Pond, were of the number ; and there is but little doubt that Levi Shear man and Solomon Hovey were two of the eight ; but whether Ludim Blodget or Timothy Tuttle made the eighth, must remain a matter of uncertainty. But this is a question of very trifling importance, for in the montli of April succeed ing, we find the names of Blodget and 'Tuttle, Samuel Hub bard, Randall Lewis, Cordial Storrs, John Bullen, and Capt. Cassety, father of Col. Cassety, — the pioneer of Oriskany Falls, — among the settlers. Capt. Moses Foot was the lead ing spirit of the emigrants. In the fall previous ( 1 786), an exploring party of tho settlers came from the German Flats to Paris HiU, foUovring 166 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. thus far the "Old Moyer Road," an Indian trail leading from Buffalo to the valley of the Mohawk, at a place some distance below Utica, where a Dutchman named Moyer kept a tavern. The exploring party left Paris HIU and came to the elevated plain near where Daniel P. Northrop and the widow Mary Baird now reside, and here the party divided, a part wishing to commence operations at this place, while the others proceeded to the site of the park, or "green," in the centre of the village of Clinton, equally determined there to commence the settlement. A eommittee was appointed by each party, who met upon the banks of the small creek near where Scott's slaughter house now stands, but neither would yield, and they returned to their constituent.-i without having effected a compromise. Subsequently other delegate^: were appointed by each, who settled the dispute, and the location of Clinton village was agreed upon for tiieir future residence. Tradition asserts that, in the fall of 1786, Ludim Blodget coramenced building a log house upon tlie ground where tho widow Phllena Catlin now resides. On the 2Ttli of February, a few days previously to the arrival of Capt. Moses Foot and his party, Jaines Bronson visited the site of Clinton Green. Exhausted by his rambles in exploring the country, he contrived to construct a shelter by the sidi' of the upturned roots of a largo hemlock. He was the first white person who ever slept in the village of Clinton, and so well pleased was he with the plaee, that he afterward.^ settled where his grandson Roswell now resides, opposite the Liberal Institnte. Buf to return to the first settlers. Habitations were first to be provided. Huts constructed with crotches and poles and sided and roofed with bark, destitute of floors, doors, or vrindows, were their first domicils. Ludim Blodget com pleted the log cabin he had commenced the fall previous. XU.J KIRKLAND. 167 and although built of logs, and covered, as -were the huts, with bark, it bore quite an aristocratic appearance among its more plebeian neighbors just described. Mrs. Solomon Hovey was the first female who arrived, and of course something extra had to be provided for the accommodation of her table furniture and wardrobe. Her husband felled a large hollow basswood, which grew a few feet west from where the Kirkland Bank now stands, and cut ting off a piece of the proper length, split and hewed off one of its sides ; this, raised upon end, with a number of shelves fitted into it, and placed by the side of their hut. was found admirably contrived for a pautrj-, cupboard, and clothes press. A street was laid out, extending north and south, from Royce Mansion to the dwelUng of 3Irs. Hays. To each iamily was set apart a lot of two acres upon this street, and upon these lots the first apologies for houses were erected. Soon afterwards, and in the next year, additional lots of eight aere^ each, adjoining the two acre lots, were set apart to the several families. As soon as their first rude shelters were provided, tlie settlers feU zealously to work to clear for each a piece of land, upon which to raise vegetables, and a crop of Indian corn. The lofty forest trees which had withstood the storms Iif centuries, were laid low by the blows of the sturdy axe men. In the course of the summer, the plaoe, by common consent, -n-as named CUnton, in honor of George Clinton, who was then Go.vernor of the State, and who was largely interested in various tracts of laud in the present Umits of the county, some of which were located in the present bounds of Kirkland. It may not be improper in this place to men tion, that George Washington, tlie beloved father of his country, was the joint owner with Gov. Clinton of quite a ttumbej of now valuable farms in Oneida County. The lot 168 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. No. 14 in the 5th grand division of Coxeborough of 316 acres, and composing the farm of the late Nathaniel Griffin, of this town, was held by a deed directly from President Washington and Gov. Clinton. The author has seen this deed, signed by the hands of George Washington and Gov. Clinton, and witnessed by Tobias Lear and De Witt Clin ton, dated July 22, 1790. Within five years past, 1,000 acres of the Mount Vernon estate have been sold to a com pany of Friends at $25 per acre. Washington could liardly have anticipated that these cheap wild lands in tlie_ vicinity of the Oneidas would, within half a century, readily sell for twice, and in some instances three times, the price per aere of his beloved Mount Vernon. The nearest mill was Wetmore's, at Whitestown, about '¦/ seven miles distant from Clinton, and at the time of the commencement of the settlement, there was no road to it, and for portions of the distance there was not even an Indian trail through the tangled forests and miry swamps. To go to mill and return, was a hard day's journey, especiall}- -ivhen, for lack of horses, the grain was borne on the back of the owner. Capt. Foot was the owner of the first and only horse in the place, and this "sorry jade" was soon stolen by the Indians. In the month of June, 1787, a party of the settlers turned out and cleared a road sufficient for the passage of an ox cart, and the next day Samuel Hubbard drove the first team to Whitestown, and returned with six bushels of oorn. The same season, Capt. Cassety built a small grist mill on the east side of the Oriskany, a short distance above the site of the factory of Barton and Tracy. By September it was so far completed as to be ready to commence business, when Samuel Hubbard, Ludim Blodget, Jesse Catlin, and Salmon Butler, each shelled a peck of corn, of which they made a joint grist, and then cast lots to XII.J KIRKLAND. 169 determine whose shoulders should bear • the precious grain to the mill. The lot fell upon Samuel Hubbard, who forth with carried it to the mill, and as it was the first grist, im memorial custom decreed that it must be ground free of toll. This was the first grist mill -west of German Flats, except Wetmore's, at Whitestown. A saw mill was erected, either the same or the succeeding season, a short distance above the grist mill, drawing water from the same pond. On Sunday, the 8th day of April, 1787, the first religious meeting was held, at the half completed log cabin of Capt. i^ Foot. This rude edifice stood upon the spot now occupied by the tin shop and printing office. Capt. Foot commenced the services by prayer ; Bronson Foot, Barnabas Pond, and Ludim Blodget were the principal singers ; and Caleb Mer rills, who had settled near the plaoe now known as Middle Settlement, read a sermon. From that day to the present, there are probably very few places where the Lord's-day has been more appropriately and religiously observed. Public worship, with scarcely an interruption, has been well attended and maintained. The summer passed away and autumn came ; but how changed ! What in March was an unbroken forest, now showed the germ of a thriving settlement. The numerous little openings and clearings, — the fences, indeed not very ornamental, surrounding fields of corn dotted with the yellow pumpkins, — the blue smoke ascending from perhaps twenty log houses and cabins, — showed distinctly that other than the red man was there, and that the new settlers were of the genuine persevering Anglo-Saxon race. The settlers were becoming contented and happy. Con^ trasted with New England's bleak hills, their location was fast becoming an El Dorado. Home, with all its sweet 170 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. associations, it was fast becoming. The author remembers, something more than twelve years since, of meeting Mr. Eli Bristol, one of the pioneers of Clinton. " How is your good old father?" was the first inquiry. Upon being informed that he was in usual health, Mr. Bristol resumed, " Tell him from me, that I want to see him once more before I die. I am now more than eighty-five, and I can not expect to live much longer. We are now both so deaf, that we can not converse together, but I want to see him. Tell him also that I remember that the first twelve years I spent in this country, were the twelve happiest years of my life." Such was the universal testimony of the pioneers of Oneida. They say " all wore on a level." An aristocrat can not breathe the air of a new settlement. The early settlers of Clinton, living as they did almost beyond the pale of civilization, and bejrond the limits of any organized town, early bethought themselves of the necessity of some compact or civil polity, for the preservation of order and quiet in their isolated settlement. The author found the following articles among the papers of his uncle, the late Isaac Jones, who was one of the first settlers in Clinton. Such was the scarcity of paper, and rigid economy of the times, that thejf were written upon the margin of the pages of a pamphlet, and doubtless they were the original and rough draft. / " Whereas, Capt. Moses Foot, and some others, formerly of ye State of Connecticut, did last fall find a good and con venient place for a large settlement in Coxeborough, County of Montgomery, State of New York ; and whereas, the said Foot did contract with John Lansing, Jun., of Albany, in ye State aforesaid, for a large traet of land, sufficient for a con siderable number of inhabitants, and did invite his acquaint ances and others to join with him in the purchase and XII.J KIRKLAND. 171 settlement of said land ; Therefore, we, whose names are underwritten, being abont to take the benefit of said invi tation, for our future safety and benefit with regard to buying said land, and other internal business amongst ourselves, do by these presents covenant with each other, jointly and severaUy, that we wUl be under the following rules, regula tions, or by-laws, viz.: — '- We will, as soon as may be, meet and choose a Secretary. whose business it shall be to record aU our public papers. votes. &c., and said record shall be binding on us all ; said Secretary must be sworn to the faithful discharge of his trust, and serve for one year. "2. Any seven persons shall have liberty to call the iiru- prietors or company together, and the Secretary shall, by their application, issue out a warrant for a meeting at least four days before said meeting. ¦'3. Three copies of said warrant, set up in the most pub lic places of our settlement, shall be deemed a sufficient warning while we Uve as compact as at present ; and every article of business to be done shall be inserted in said war rants, that the members may have time to consider of them. and be in some manner prepared to give their opinion, and it shall not be lawful to act ou any business not mentioned in the warrants. - 4. In all matters of debate, the moderator shaU allow every member to have his turn to speak, provided he does it in an orderly manner. "5. No votes shall be recorded, or be binding, except two- thirds of the members are of a mind. •¦6. t^pon the consideration of Capt. Foot's taking us iu as partners with him, we agree to pay him the account he has kept in cash in procuring said land, that is. labor for his time, and cash to the amount of what he has expended." 172 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. In 1788, about twenty families were added to the num- l/ ber. This was most cheering and brightening to their prospects. When the location was agreed upon in the fall of 1786, they supposed that they were not within the limits of any patent, and that the land had never been surveyed. They characterized themselves as squatters, but presumed upon the benefit of the pre-emption right. Upon exploring and clearing up the land, they however soon discovered lines of marked trees, and during the second season they ascertained that they were on Coxe's Patent, a tract of land granted by the colony of New York, on the 30th of May, 1770, to Dan iel Coxe, William Coxe, Rebecca Coxe, and John Tabor Kempe and Grace his wife, and by them had been surveyed into lots. Clinton was found to be on the "two thousand and sixteen acres tract," and by this descriptive name it is still known by the older inhabitants and surveyors. It was based upon the Oriskany Creek on the west, extending east to Daniel P. Northrup's, north to Solomon Gleason's, and south as far as Mrs. Hays'. The most unpleasant part of the discovery was yet to be made. The tract had been surveyed into twenty lots of equal size, and the proprietors had offered to give the tract to any company of twenty families who would make a per- ¦ manent settlement upon it. After this state of things had been discovered by the settlers, they entertained strong hopes of realizing the benefit of this offer ; but the patentees ascertaining that the settle ment had been made in ignorance of their offer, the settlers were required to pay ten shillings per acre. In the summer of 1788, therefore, Capt. Foot was sent to Philadelphia to make the necessary contracts for the pur- XIL J KIRKLAND, 173 chase of the whole tract, and eventually the several lots were taken by the different settlers. The site of the village was on a triangular piece, called the " handkerchief lot," from its resemblance to a half handkerchief, and was purchased by Capt. Foot. If the settlers were happy and contented, they also came in for their share of grief allotted to humanity. In the spring of this year "the insatiate archer" sent a shaft into their secluded settlement, and he rarely assumes a more distressing or heart-rending form. The bow was not drawn at venture, for, as the poet writes, " Death loves a shining mark.'' Miss Merab Tuttle, aged 17, daughter of Col. Timothy Tuttle, who owned and resided upon the Royce farm, was drowned in the Oriskany Creek. The circumstances were briefly these: — Miss Tuttle and Miss Anna Foot, daughter of Capt. Moses Foot, started late in the afternoon to make a call at Mr. William Cook's, who resided on the west bank of the creek, in a log house which stood near the site of the house formerly owned by Mr. J. Herrick, and at present occupied by Mr. John Nettleton. For lack of perfumed French hair powder for their toilet, they called on their way at Cassety's mUl, and with the mill-dust whitened their locks, as for some gala day. Though now obsolete, such then was the fashion. At that time no bridge spanned the stream from its source to its mouth. The settlers had felled two trees across, a little below the site of the bridge on the road to the college. When the girls arrived at the crossing place, they found the stream swollen from the spring freshet and recent rains, and its turbid waters were rushing and foaming madly down its channel. At first they quaUed, but Miss Foot, the more courageous of the two, soon led the way, 174 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. followed by her companion. When near the middle of the stream. Miss Foot heard from her friend the exclamation, "0, dear, my head swims!" which was instantly followed by a splash in the water, and turning, saw her struggling in the current. Miss Foot gave such loud and prolonged cries for help, that she was distinctly heard through the woods at 3Iiss Tuttle's residence. Mr. Cook, who happened to be at his house, either witnessing the accident, or attracted by the cries, sprang into the stream to rescue the drowning girl, and nearly succeeded in grasping her by her clothes, when the current drew her from his sight under a pile of drift wood. Instant and continued search was made for the body. The blacksmith made hooks, whicli were fastened in the ends of long poles, with which to drag the stream. These were unsuccessfully plied through the whole night. In the morn ing the remains of the unfortunate young lady were found, drawn under a pile of drift wood, near the site of the Clinton Factory. Few eyes slept in Clinton that night. Intelli gence of the accident was sent to their neighbors at Dean's Settlement, in Westmoreland, as also the time appointed for the funeral. At the time named, many of the few settlers on Dean's Patent attended. The late Nehemiah Jones, father of the author, when about to start, and knowing there could be no clergyman expected, (as probably there was none west of Albany,) took with him a volume of sermons, in which was one preached on the occasion of a young man being drowned. At the funeral he was requested to read that sermon, and after a prayer by Capt. Foot, he did so. The text upon which the sermon was founded, was 1 Samuel XX. 3: "There is but a step between me and death." Her grave was first dug on the "green," but it being thought too wet, she was buried in the south part of the present burying ground, which was then a part of her father's farm, Major XII.J KIRKLAND. 175 Barnabas Pond, but a few years before his death, informed the author that he dug her grave, and that he dug every grave in that burial ground until there had been over one hundred interments. There were few or none of those fevers in the settlement, the scourge of many of the new settlements in the west, and far west. Tke second d^ath was that of Thomas Fancher, . Jun., who was killed by a falling tree, in 1791 ; and tbe third was that of Mrs. Mercy Stebbins, wife of Judah Steb bins, Jun., aged 26 years. She was the mother of James D. Stebbins, yet residing in Clinton. Cupid, the wily little god, was not idle, but visited tbe settlement in 1788, casting his darts, and making some very pleasant wounds among the young people. The result was, the marriage of Elias Dewey and Anna Foot, and Andrew Blanchard and Mary Cook, upon the same day. The first public wedding, (and even some claim that it was the first marriage of a white couple in the county,) was that of Mr, Roger Leverett and Miss Elizabeth Cheesbrough, sister of the late Harry Cheesbrough and Mrs. Benedict Babcock, Sen. The bans were solemnized upon the Congden farm, in a log house which stood upon a knoll in the first orchard oast from where the road from Clinton to Utica crosses the Chenango Canal. Jason Parker, of Utica, so long known as a stage proprietor and mail contractor, was an invited guest. In lack of other, the fire-sill was used as the most prominent seat for the company: It was a real merry making ; and if the bill of fare did not quite come up to that of the modern weddings of Clinton, yet we are quite sure it did not fall short in that essential ingredient of a good wedding, — happy guests. Among the early marriages was that of Mr. William Stebbins to Miss Lydia Branch, November 25, 1790. The Rev. Sampson Orcum, the Indian 176 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. preacher, officiated, and, as was the oustom in those days, saluted the bride without giving any offence. The first child born in the settlement was Clinton Foot, son of Luther Foot, who died before he arrived at manhood. The second was Fanny Kellogg, daughter of Capt. Amos Kellogg. She is yet living in Clinton, and is the widow of the late lamented Orrin Gridley. The third, Julius Pond, Esq., deceased, who was extensively known in the county,. was born July 26, 1789; and the fourth was James D. Stebbins, who was born September 1 1 of the same year. Many settlers arrived- in 1789, among others, Jesse Cur tiss, Esq.,* who is still living, in the enjoyment of a green old V^ age, a monument between the past and the present age, honored and beloved. He brought on his back from the log huts in Utica, a skipple (three pecks) of seed wheat. It is believed that, for the first time, horses were seen in the settlement this year, excepting the one before mentioned as brought in by Capt. Foot. William Carpenter and Nathan Marsh each had one, and during the fall they went on horseback to Albany. , It is no very great compliment, however, either to fhe roads or the powers of the beasts, to state that Jesse Curtiss and Bartholomew Pond, who started on foot at the same time, preceded them some hours in arriving at Albany. The summer of 1789 was in one respect more trying to the settlers than its predecessors. Famine, with all its horrors was upon them. The crops of the previous year were insufficient for their own wants and those of the daily increasing emigrants. The hoarded little stock of flour, and their last year's crop of potatoes, were consumed, and the corn and meal were nearly exhausted, whUe the forthcoming crop was not matured. At planting time such were their * Since deceased. (See his obituary at the close ofthe chapter.) XII.J KIRKLAND. 177 straits, and their eare to husband their limited supply, that the eyes of the potatoes were cut out for planting, and the remainder carefully preserved for the table. To slaughter their few cattle, would be at once to destroy their future pros pects, and nothing but the last extremity could have induced them to do so. Money was almost out of the question, and it is believed that if they had been compelled to contribute their all, not enough would have been found to purchase a barrel of flour, even at present prices. The forests were searched for ground-nuts and leeks, the fishing rod put in requisition, and most fortunate was the hunter who succeeded in securing a bear or her cubs, to aid in their extremity. Notwithstanding, children cried for food, and strong men put themselves on a stinted allowance, that the more help less might be fed. All this did not suffice ; something far ther must be done. A small party was sent to Fort Plain, Montgomery County, to see if supplies could not there be obtained. At that plaoe resided a large farmer -and miller, named Isaac Pap^s, and to bim imploringly they appealed. He responded most liberally ; and with a promptness which did honor to his heart, he loaded a small flat boat with flour and meal, and sent it up the Mohawk to the mouth of the Oriskany. Here it was met by a party of the settlers, transhipped into a log canoe of their own construction, and from thence, with the aid of setting poles, paddles, and ropes, their "ark of plenty" was taken up the creek as far as the site of the bridge upon the Lairdsville road, and from that landing it was transported in carts to the settlement. Lan guage is too feeblq to describe the rejoicings upon the arrival of this timely supply of breadstuffs. Clinton has never before nor since witnessed such an- overflow of gratitude. ''^- The settlers did not go to Mr. Paris as beggars. SUver and gold they had none, but they had industry, and strong 12 178 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP, hands and arms, and they agreed to pay for the meal and flour in ginseng, to be delivered the next fall. This root, in the early days of Oneida, was a considerable article iu commerce. Although om- cattle have now almost extirpated it fi'om our forests, it was at that early day found in great abundance. It was shipped to those countries afflicted witk the plague, where it was for a long time considered the best antidote against that disease. In 1792, a new town, includ ing Clinton, was formed from Whitestown, and in gratitude to their benefactor, the name of Paris was given to it. The original town of Paris has since been divided, and the town of Kirkland, including CUnton, taken from it. At this time, such is the veneration of the name of Paris, that many of the descendants of those who enjoyed his beneficence. although rightfully proud of the name of Kirklan'd, regret that the name Palis had not been retained by that portion of the original town including Clinton. This yeaj- the settlers commenced building for themselves more permanent and comfortable habitations. Col. Timothy Tuttle erected the first framed house, which yet remains. and is the carriage house upon the premises of the late Samuel Royce. The same year, Ebenezer Butler erected the second framed house, upon the spot where is now the residence of Asa Olm stead, and there he opened and kept the first store in town. About the 20th of October, 1789,, snow fell to the depth of nearly two feet, and this upon a bed of mud of nearly the same depth. The weather became cold and inclement, and most forbidding to him who had yet to erect a frame dwell ing. Precisely at this time, a settler, determined not to be foiled in his plan of building a framed house before the win ter should set in in full severity, went to Capt. Foot's saw mill, and for three days and two nights, unremittingly, and XII.J ' KIRKLAND. 179 without aid, continued to saw the lumber necessary for the buUding. When the task was completed, his hands had become glazed, as by fire, by the constant use of the frosty mill-bars ; but he was well repaid for his toil, for in a few days he was enabled to rear a frame dwelling sixteen feet squar.e. That dwelling is now the kitchen of Mr. Horatio Curtiss, and that persevering settler was Jesse Curtiss, already mentioned. The first two framed barns were built this year, the first by Judah Stebbins, upon the farm now owned by Mr. Edwin J. Stebbins, and the second in the latter part of the season, upon the farm of the Rev. Hiram H. Kellogg. These were both large, and the first built in the vicinity. In the year 1792, Thomas Hart removed to Clinton. He was the father of a number of sons, one of whom has been conspicuous in our great commercial emporium, another in central, ^nd others in western New York. In company with one Seth Roberts, Mr. Hart opened a store in the building in which Ebenezer Butler had before traded. Mr. Hart was appointed one of the Judges of Oneida County some years previous to his death. The most expensive monument at that time in the Clinton burying ground,- was erected to his memory, with the following inscription : — "In memory of Thomas Hart, Esquire, who died Feb. 11, 1811, aged 60 years and 4 months." In 1793, Judah Stebbins erected the first two-story house in the town, and which yet stands, being the large yellow dwelling upon the farm of the before-named Edwin J. Steb bins, his grandson. A single fact shows at once the difficul ties which had to be surmounted, and the laborious habits of those days. Mr. Stebbins, with his own hands, rived or split the clap-boards upon this house, from pine trees. Now 180 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP, the builder is hardly content with the best of half inch pine ¦stuff, sawed, planed, and jointed by steam power, and deliv ered at his door. Clinton was settled by natives of New England, princi pally from Massachusetts and Connecticut. Its history shows the striking influence of early habits and education ; for from 1787 to the present day, the place has continued to possess most of the characteristics of a New England town. The staid habits, prevailing morality, and the attachment to education, which are here found, most distinctly show their eastern and Puritan origin. Sometimes, the settlers met with odd adventures. The bears in those days were very destructive to green corn and young pigs. In the fall of 1790, Mr. Curtiss, and three or four others, on their return from meeting one Sunday afternoon, passed through a corn field, near where stands the mansion formerly occupied by Maj. Pond, and now by Mr. Gunn. They heard an unusual rustling in the corn, and in searching for the cause, discovered two bear cubs busily engaged in break- ,ing down and masticating the green ears. Forthwith they made an onset upon the trespassers, and, despite their piteous cries for their dam, by dint of blows and kicks, soon despatched them. The same afternoon, Mr. Bronson, upon returning from meeting, found the old bear sitting very quietly and demurely upon the steps of his door, little dreaming of the sad calamity which had overtaken her young. The street leading past the house of James D. Stebbins was for a long time called "Brim Field" street, being en tirely settled by emigrants from the town of that name in Massachusetts. The street leading to Utica was long known as '¦ Toggletown," from the long lines of log fence on each XII.J KIRKLAND. 181 side of it, made by "toggling" the logs together at the joints.. Even at this day, some of the old inhabitants designate this street by that name. The mime of "Chuckery" is indellibly impressed upon the eastern part of this town, and when the section bearing that name became so populous as to send a colony into Madison County, such was the partiality for the name, that the clus ter of buildings is known as "New Chuckery" to this day, notwithstanding some modern innovators have attempted to change it to Perryville. The little village upon the creek above Clinton, now known as Franklin, onoe bore the un- ¦seemly name of Sodom. If its inhabitants ever deserved so uncourteous an appellation (which is very much doubted). its present population have earned their title to the popular name by which their village is now designated. In the early settlement of Clinton, a circumstance occur red similar in some respects to the famous dreaming match Ivetween Sir William Johnson and the Mohawk sachem. A man named Owens was building a framed house near where stands the residence of the Rev. Mr. Sawyer. The Rev. Mr. Kirkland, in passing it with a cart and oxen, observed somo pieces of boards which he needed, and said to Owens, " I had a dream last night." " What did you dream?" was the response. " I dreamed that you gave me these nice pieces of pine boards, and that I took them home in my cart." '-'- Well," says Owen, " if you so dreamed, you must take them." The next day, as Mr. Kirkland was again passing. Owens saluted him, and told him he had had a dream. "What was it?" asked Mr. Kirkland. "I dreamed that I wanted your cart and two yoke of oxen to go to Whitesboro for brick for my chimney, and that you let me have them." " Well," says his Reverence, " if -you dreamed so, you must have them, but, dear me, do not ever dream again," 182 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY, [CIIAP. In the year 1801, Ephraim Hart, who had succeeded his father, Thomas Hart, in the mercantile business, had collected 1,800 silver dollars, with which he was soon to start for New York to purchase goods. An Irishman named Samuel 3IcBride, who had in somo way learned that Blr. Hart had that sum on hand, on the night of the 23d of July, broke into the store, and stole the whole. In the morning the theft was discovered, and imniediate search made for the thief and money, and the burglar was soOn captured, with the whole fsum, excepting about two dollars. He was brought back to Clinton for examination, where he made his escape in tho night from his two keepers, and got into the forest. Upon the high ground opposite where the Middle Settlement road leaves the Utica road, and in rear of the house then the .residence of Mr. Samuel Ilecox, he found a hollow stump, some ten or twelve feet high, into which he stowed himself, intending to remain through the next day, and the next evening to leave for "parts unknown." But the Fates had otherwise ordered, for at evening, in attempting to leave, he found himself unable to get to the top of his hiding plaee, and for several hours hope forsook him, and he believed ho must there remain, and die from starvation. The next morning, in the frenzy of despair, and aided by the light of day, a more desperate effort was successful, and he was upon the point of escaping from his novel cell, just in season to be re-captured by some person in search of him. He was sub sequently tried, convicted, and rewarded for his villany with fourteen years' duress in State's Prison. Although in amount this fell far short of some modern bank robberies yet in those hard money days, it created much sensation in the vicinity. The stolen money was composed entirely of Spanish milled dollars. Some account has been already given of the first religious Xn.J KIRKLAND. 183 meeting held in the viUage. No nUnister -visited the place until the month of November, 1788. when the Rev. Samuel Eells, then pastor of the Congregational Church in Bran ford, Ct, visited the plaee. remained some time, and preached to tbe people. He also formed for his hearers a covenant, whieh mueh resembled the " half-way covenant,' so popular in those days iu New England, and this was signed bv nine males and seven females. This covenant was not very or thodox in its charaeter, requiring merely "moral character,'' -• historie faith, ' and baptism, but not requiring " sa-ving feith'' as a pre-requisite for communion. As a basis of Christian and chureh feUowship. such a covenant might possibly be eousidered a little preferable to the absence of aU religious association, yet even of t.ais some doubts might be entertained. It appears that the -half-way covenant ' was very soon abandoned in CUnton. In August. 1791, Dr. Edwards, better known as tho younger Edwards, then pastor of a church in New Haven. Conn., arrived in the plaee, and during his stay organized a Congregational Chureh, of about thirty members. On the ¦2oth day of September, of the same year, - The Society of CUnton"' was organized by the election of Mcses Foot, EU Bristol, Ebenezer Butler, Jun., Hannaniah EUinwood, Ebenezer Tuttle, and Samuel Tuttle. as trustees. The articles of association are dated September 1. 1791. and were signed by eighty-three member.s, embracing nearly all the prominent men in the settlement. In 1792, the Rev. Asahel S. Norton -oame. at the request -if the people, to preach the Gospel of salvation," After he had preached to them some time, they gave him an invitation to become pastor of the church and society. which was accepted. Owing to some disappointment iu oibtaioiog the person selected to preach the sermon, his 164 A.VXALS OF ONEIDA COUXTY. [CHAP ordination was delayed to a much later day than was in tended. He was ordained in the open air, near the centre of Clinton, on the 18th of September, 1793. Dr. Norton remained pastor of the Congregational Church a few weeki- over forty years, and was dismissed in November, 1833. At the close of Dr. Norton's pastoral labors, 741 had joined the church, including those who united at its forma tion. But thirty-four had joined previous to his ordination. and of these, seven had been already dismissed, learing but, twenty-seven members at that time. Of the whole number (741) who had joined previous to the close of his services, 571 had been received by pro fession, and 170 by letters from other churches. These numbers show that his labors had been eminently sucee-,- ful. In 1620,Dr. Norton preached a Thanksgiving sermon. which was published at the request of his congregation, and in which he states, — " There have been added to the church 419 since it has been under my pastoral charge. The whole number of members since the first formation of the church, 453 : ofthe.se, 213 have fallen asleep, or removed tr- other parts of the country. The number now remaining in the Umits of the society is 240." Near the close of 1799, a revival commenced in Clinton. whieh continued through 1800 and a part of 1801. As ifs fruit.s, sLxty-three joined the church on profession of faith in 1800, and forty-four in 1801, besides twenty-four who joined by letter within these two years. In 1831; another revival of religion occurred and pro gressed during the year. Ninety-one were added upon profession, and eight by letter, and in 1832, eighteen by profession, and fourteen by letter. In 1835, the Rev. Moses Chase was instaUed pastor. His ministry was successful, for withui that year twenty-ont- XII.J KIRKLAND. 185- joined upon profession and twenty-five bj^ letter, and in 1836, thirty-five by profession and twenty by letter; In 1838, thirty-nine were added upon profession and nine by letter. Mr. Chase was dismissed in 1839, and the aggregate ac cessions during the five years in which he was pastor, were 104 upon profession and sixty-five by letter. The Rev. Wayne Gridley, was instaUed pastor in 1840. In 1842, nineteen joined by profession and ten by letter, and in IS 43, thirty-five by profession, and four by letter. In 1845. Mr. Gridley was dismissed on account of ill health. During the five years in which he was pastor sixty-eight wore added on profession and forty-four by letter. In 1846, the present pastor, the Rev. Robert G. Virmilyo -\vas installed. During the years 1846, 1847, and 1848, tou were added by profession and sixteen by letter. From the formation ofthe church in 1791 to the close of 1848, 1,08-2 had been received into the fellowship of the church, 830 had either died or been dismissed, leaving the present number ¦-iCiO. In 1S50 this church reported to.the General Associa tion 250 members, 80 males and 170 females, and that five had been received upon profession and nine by letter during the year, and the removal of fifteen by death, by dismission, etc. Doctor Norton yet survives. He was eighty-five years of age on the twentieth of September, 1850, and still dwells upon his farm about one mile north-west of the village, which has been his home for more than half a century. He has lost the sight of one eye by disease, and the other has become dim by ago. He walks to and from the post office in the village, with the sprightliness, if not with the elasticity, of youth. In speaking of him, the author feels justified in swei*ving from the rule he had adopted, not to speak but in general terms of the characters of the living. He is a loved monument, spared to. us, of the past generation, of tlie early 186 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. settlers of the eounty. He loves the people of Clinton, and they love and venerate him. Each succeeding winter they make him a pastoral visit, when not only a large portion of his own beloved ehurch and society meet, but others of the different societies ; and well they may, for during his long and useful life, the benediction of his Sa-rior in the sermon on the Mount has well applied to him : " Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God." Baptist Church. — During the revival of religion in 1831. a portion of the converts were impressed with the belief that immersion is the scriptural mode of baptism, aud that be lievers are the only subjects. In the month of June of that year, a meeting of those persons was held to consult as to their duty, and after a full and free discussion, and the ad vice of members of different Baptist Churches, they came to the conclusion to unite with the first Baptist Church in Westmoreland, with the understanding of ultimately being dismissed to form a church in Clinton village. Accordingly, on the sixth of July following, the Westmoreland Church held a meeting in the Universalist Church in that village, and received seventeen members, who resided in that vicinity. This was the germ of the Baptist Church. On the 25th of September afterwards, a Council was called to advise as to the propriety of organizing said members into a church, and after a full discussion, the Council advised to the measure, and they forthwith proceeded to organize such church, as they be lieved, on the apostolic plan. It consisted of nineteen mem bers, nine males and ten females. Elder P. P. Brown, of Augusta, preached the sermon, Elder David Morris, of Rome. gave the hand of feUowship, and Elder Daniel Putnam, of Sangerfield, addressed the church on the occasion. They soon procured the use of the Grammar school buUding, Xn.J KIRKLAND, 187 and on the first Lord's-day in October they commenced wor ship, which has been regularly maintained to the present time. In the winter of 1832, a subscription was circulated to raise funds to build a meeting house for their use. Nine hundred and fifteen dollars and ninety-one cents having been subscribed, they proceeded to commence preparations for pur chasing alot and building a house, which were to cost $1,800. The house was completed and dedicated on November 9th of the same year. The building is sixty feet by forty, with a circular gallery and basement, and was at the time considered a neat structure, as well as au honor to its projectors and build ers and an ornament to the village. On the completion of their house the church found itself in debt about $1,100, on which an annual interest had to be paid, besides the support of a pastor. This to a body, the assessed value of whose individual property amounted probably in the aggregate to less than $8,000, must have appeared soniewhat onerous, but there was union, and where that is, there is strength. By assessments and re-assessments, and with the aid of $193,53 generously donated by members of other denominations, in 1837, the whole debt was cancelled, one family having paid within the five years $536,90. The church has had its seasons of prosperity and adversity. From its commencement to the present time, 337 have been added to its numbers, 174 by letter, and 163 by baptism. The first pastor of the church was Elder Daniel Putnam, who remained but one year. From that period to the pres ent, the church has had a succession of pastors, eight in number. ^ In 1842, 1843, Elder Jason Corwin was pastor; in 1844, Elder William Thompson; 1845, 1846, Elder A. Kenyon; 1847 and 1848, Elder Harry White; 1850 and 1851, Elder D. Alcott. The present number of members is eighty-five, 188 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Of those who have been dismissed, the greater portion have joined other Baptist Churches, a few have died, and but few have been excluded. Of its origmal members, seven yet re main in the church. The Universalist Society. — Universalism was first preach ed statedly in Kirkland, in 1820, when the Rev. Stephen R. ' Smith, so well known and appreciated through the whole de nomination, delivered a course of lectures in the village of Clinton. As mentioned in the history of New Hartford, (Chap. XVI;) the Whitestown Society was the parent stock from which the others of the same faith emanated. In Clin ton there were several prominent members of the denomina tion, and they wished to bring the blessing of public worship as they held to be the truth, to their own doors. The lec tures of Mr. Smith in 1820, prepared the way for the erec tion of a neat and commodious brick church in 1822. Jo seph Stebbins, Esq., headed the subscription with $500, and as money was needed, during the erection ofthe building, l;c advanced about $1,000 over his subscription. For his gene- rositjr he has never received, as he probably never expected. any other return than the approbation of his own conscience. and the gratitude of his brethren in the denomination. This society has never been more than moderately prosperous, and has had to contend against much prejudice. Still it sustain.'- a respectable rank as to wealth and numbers, and will com pare favorably with either the Methodist or Baptist Socie ties. The Congregationalist is very much larger. In connection with the Universalist Church should be mentioned " the CUnton Liberal Institute," which is under the patronage of this denomination. It was founded in 1832, and received a charter in 1834. It consists of a male and female department, which occupy separate buUdings. That XII.J KIRKLAND, 189 of the male department is a large stone edifice, nearly 100 feet in length, and four stories high, and cost over $9,000. The female department has untU recently occupied a building which has been found inadequate for its purposes. In 1850 a new building was erected for this department, the architectural design and execution of which have con ferred much honor upon its projectors, and an ornament upon the village. The estimated expense of the buUding was $6,500. The site was a gift to the Institute, and one of the finest in the village, having been valued at $500. Considera ble improvements are being made in the male department, and the trustees and friends of the Institution are putting forth their earnest efforts to raise the school to the first rank .imong the Academies of the State. A subscription for a permanent fund of $10,000 has been recently nearly or quite filled up, besides a considerable sum required for the erection of the new building for the female department. Within a short period two very liberal bequests, amounting to from nine to ten thousand dollars, have been made to the Insti tute, which, when reeeived, will add materially to its means of usefulness, in diffusing the blessing of a good education to its pupils. At present the school sustains a respectable rank among the literary institutions of our country. It employs six teachers, and generally has about one hundred students. The Rev. Thomas J. Sawyer is now at the head of its faculty. Methodist Society. — This denomination has a respectable society in Clinton. A few years since they erected a very neat and appropriate chapel for public worship on the east erly side of Clinton Green. The author has repeatedly, from time to time, been promised notes, containing statistics of this body, and had left a blank in his manuscript for as ex tended a notice of this as of the other religious societies in 190 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [ClIAP. the place. He has, however, been entirely disappointed iu receiving the information so often sought, and is reluctantly compelled to go to press with but this stinted notice. There are now in Clinton village more than twenty or dained ministers of different denominations, four church es, seven stores, eight licensed physicians, one College, the Liberal Institute, an Academy, two Seminaries for young ladies, a District School, a bank, and a printing office. The Surrogate for the county now resides in Clinton, and holds his courts there. A plank road from WatervUle to Utica passes through Clinton, as does also the Chenango Canal Clinton has been justly termed the literary and scientifio emporium of Central New York. Geology. — This town possesses numerous beds of iron ore, from which about 3,000 tons are used annuaUy at Con stantia and Taberg. This is mostly converted into pig iron for the supplying of cupola furnaces. Its quality approxi mates to that of best Scotch pig. This ore was formerly worked to a small extent in a forge at Walesville, and in Marshall, but the iron, either from the want of skill in the manufacturers, or the inferior quality of the ore, proved to be most miserably poor. There are quarries of good buildiu^i; stone near Clinton village. Near Hamilton College are ex tensive beds of red shale, otherwise there is nothing peculiar to distinguish this from the neighboring towns. Manchester village (although its post office bears the name of Kirkland), lies one and a half miles below Clinton. where the Seneca plank road crosses the Oriskany Creek. Here in the olden time was the Indian trail from the ford at Fort Schuyler (Utica) to the Oneida CasUe. It was also considered as the head of navigation on the Oriskany, al- XII.J KIRKLAND. 191 though perhaps occasionally a canoe may have ascended at high as Clinton. The wrecks of two or three batteaux were found here when the first settlers arrived. A small stream here enters the Oriskany from the south-east, and on the point formed by the two streams there was a small Indian clearing, with another on the easterly side, still smaller, used for encamping. The first settler in this village was Robert Parks, who arrived here in 1788, and in the same season a number of families removed to this place and vicinity. Mr. Parks erected the first framed house, which is now the back part of the tavern owned by David Pixley, Esq. There are in the -village two stores, two taverns, an extensive cotton factory, several mechanics, and from thirty to- forty dwelling houses. There are a Congregational Church and Society, with a respectable house of worship. This chureh reported in 1850 forty-nine members. Rev. S. W. Raymond, the present pastor, commenced his labors with the church in 1846. The water power for the factory at this plaee was obtained in a manner different from the ordinary mode. The flats of the Oriskany at this place are wide, and instead of confining the stream to either side by a dike, a heavy wall of masonry. about fifty feet in length, laid in hydraulic cement, was raised some twenty feet, near the centre and crosswise of the valley, a few rods from the channel of the stream just above the site of the factory. From the ends of this wall heavy parallel embankments of earth were carried so far up and into the stream, as to raise the water nearly to the top of the wall. Although expensive, a power was thus obtained suf ficient for the machinery of a large factory. One of the earliest Sunday Schools in the county was established in this rillage. Warren Converse, Esq., then superintendent of the factory, and Mr. Isaac Pixley, were I9S ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. mainly instrumental in getting up the school. It was started early in 1817, and it had a two-fold object: first, instruction in the Scriptures ; and, secondly, to give those destitute of other means, an opportunity to acquire the rudiments of education. Some were found, even thirteen years of age, without a knowledge of the alphabet. Instances can be given of young men who have succeeded well in life, and have made respectable members of society, who in this school received their entire education. Although at its commence ment it had to encounter prejudices, it is continued in its usefulness to the present time. HAMILTON ONEIDA ACADEM-\'. This Institution was incorporated by the Regents of tho University, by charter, dated "the thirty-first day of January, in the seventeenth year of American independence." [1793,] This charter is written upon parchment, and is in a good state of preservation, having been kept in a tin case. The preamble of the charter sets forth that, "Whereas Samuel Kirkland, Jonas Piatt, Eli BristoU, Erastus Clark, Joel BristoU, Sewall Hopkins, James Dean, aud Michael i^Iyers, by an instrument in writing, under their hands and seals, bearing date the 12th day of November, in the year n — upon the occasion. If speech could have been given it, what an -o'ertrae tale" it could have told, of suffering witnessed, of hard serriee, of battles fongbt and rietories won in the cause of the United States, In the lattfflr part of the same year, a, school -was com menced, nnder the preceptorship of tbe Rev, John Niles, and during a portion of the time be bad tbe cbaige of the school, tbe Rev. James Murdock was associated with Mm. 13 194 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP, Mr. Niles was succeeded by the Rev. Robert Porter. Mr, Porter was succeeded by the late Professor Seth Norton, who remained but one year, and then returned to Yale College, and was succeeded by the Rev. James Robbins, who remained a year, when Professor Norton returned and resumed the charge of the school, and continued at its head until the college charter was obtained, when he was eleoted Professor of Languages in that Institution. As long as Mr. Kirkland lived, he continued the benefactor of the Academy. Within the past year a travelling pedlar called at the- residenoe of the author, to dispose of some of his wares, and while present produced a small package of papers, which he said he had found in the road near New Hartford village. On examination, they were found to be dated in the latter part of the last century, mostly of a legal character, and of no possible use at this time to any one. One paper, how ever, as a relic of Mr. Kirkland's devotion to his favorite Institution, is worth preserving. It was under the hand and seal of Mr. Kirkland, and in a short preamble he sat forth that the trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy were de sirous to borrow three or four hundred dollars to complete the Academic building, and then proceeds, by promising, for value received, to make himself personally responsible to any person who would loan the money to said trustees. Comment is unnecessary. In its time, Hamilton Oneida Academy performed well its part. Many of the sons of Central New York left its halls with their all of classical education, to become eminent in the pulpit, at the bar, and in the medical profession. Among the contributors to its funds may be found the names of almost every inhabitant of Clinton, and many from the adjoimng towns. Thus useful and prosperous, and thus fostered, it soon became apparent that, at no distant XII.] KIRKLAND. 195 day, a wider field of usefulness was opening before it. A subscription was again opened, to raise funds to endow it as a College. This subscription was headed by that excellent man, — the then patroon of Albany, — the late Stephen Van Rensselaer, who gave 61,000. The late Daniel D. Tomp kins — then Governor of the State, and afterwards Vice President of the United States — gave $500. They were followed by many generous donors, until a sufficient sum was raised, added to the prospective bounty of the State, to warrant an application to the Regents of the University for a college charter. The prayer was heard, and on the 26th of iMay, 1812, a charter was granted to Hamilton College. The trustees named in the charter were, Henry Hunting ton. George Brayton, Morris S. Miller, Nathan Williams, James S. Kip, James Carnahan, Jedediah Sanger, Joseph Kirkland, John H. Lothrop, Thomas R. Gold, Jonas Piatt,' James Eells, Asahel S. Norton, Ephraim Hart, William Hotchkiss, Joel Bristol, Henry McNiel, Peter Smith, Dirck C. Lansing, Jasper Hopper, Obadiah German, Arunah Met calf, Simeon Ford, and Walter Fisk. Of the above twenty- four trustees, all that survived at the time of the annual commencement, July 1849, were James Eells, Asahel S. Norton, William Hotchkiss, Dirck C. Lansing, Jasper Hop per, Arunah Metcalf, and Walter Fisk. The Rev. Azel Backus, D. D., was elected first President, in 1812. This selection was most fortunate. The college) under his auspices, was fast rising in usefulness and public favor ; but his connection with the institution was soon severed by death. Dr. Backus was born in the town of Franklin, near the city of Norwich, Conn., on the 13th of October, 1765. His father died while his only child was in infancy. The death of the father was an almost irreparable loss to the son, for he particularly needed in youth those 196 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAF. restraints which none but a father can so well impose. His ardent temperament required a firm and steady control, and his early years were marked with great licentiousness of opinion. His companions were rude, ignorant, and disso lute. His mind became poisoned with infidelity, and he often spoke of himself "as a brand plucked from the burn ing-" While engaged in his studies, preparatory to his admission to college, he began an intimate acquaintance with his uncle, the Rev. Charles Backus, of Somers, who soon won the afi'ections of his nephew. The influence thus obtained, he employed to promote the eternal welfare of his young kins man. He was successful, for the infidel was arrested, and trembled in view of his danger, and the arrow fastened in his heart. Guided by the Spirit, he bowed to the sovereignty of the God he had denied. Religion softened his heart and ¦ subdued his will. After the completion of his preparatory studies, he was admitted a member of Yale College. While in college his insatiable thirst for knowledge often led him into a desultory course of reading, and through life his learning, though extensive, in some degree .lacked system. The completion of his collegiate course had exhausted his patrimony, and left him to some extent indebted to friends. As yet, he had not selected his profession. With but few friends, and no pecuniary resources, he was almost discou raged, and at one time he had decided to abandon the farther prosecution of literary pursuits, and join the army. Here again his unele stepped in as a guardian angel, and rescued his wayward nephew. A change of purpose was efi'ected, and a resolution formed to enter upon the study of divinity. His first occupation after leaving college, was the charge of the grammar school in Weathersfield, where he was associated with his classmate, John H. Lothrop, Esq., and in the divi- XU.J KIRKLAND. 197 sion of duties, the care of the young gentlemen devolved on Dr. Backus. His superior talents as an instructor were here developed. He was licensed and commenced preaching in 1789, and soon afterwards was invited to preach to the congregation then lately bereaved by the death of Dr. Bel lamy. He afterwards received an unanimous call to become the pastor of the church, which was accepted, and his talents and character did not fail to render him acceptable and use ful to his congregation. He was a faithful pastor. In his intercourse with his people, he was candid and afl'ectionate ; as a preacher, he was sound, original, attractive, and instruc tive. His imagination was brilliant and chaste, producing some of the boldest combinations and brightest specimens of inteUectual creations. His pen never did justice to his talents as a preacher. In 1798, he preached the annual election sermon, by the appointment of Gov. Wolcott ; and in 1799, he preached Gov. Wolcott's funeral sermon. Soon after his ordination, he opened a select school in Bethlehem, the prineipai object of which was to prepare young men for college. He continued this school as long as he resided in the State. He was peculiarly qualified for a teacher, by the clear and direct manner in which he explained and illus trated first principles, and adapted his ideas and language to the capacity of his pupils. He always acquired and re tained the afiection and respectful regard of those under his care. His selection and success as President of Hamilton CoUege, have been noticed. In the midst of his career of usefulness, he died of typhus fever, December 9, 1816, aged fifty-two. His funeral sermon was preached by Rev. Dr. Norton. The corporation of the college, as a token of their respect for their departed President, erected over his re mains in the college cemetery, a handsome monument to his memory. The inscription is in Latin. 198 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. In person, Dr. Backus was of the middle stature, robust, and athletic ; though corpulent, he was active. He burled several children before he came to this State, and four survived him. Two have since deceased : Wealthy, wife of Gerrit Smith, of Peterboro, and Albert, who died in France, where he had gone for the benefit of his health. The Rev. Henry Davis, D. D., succeeded to the Presidency in 1817. He had previously been President of Middlebury College, Vermont. For the first five years he was success ful, and the institution prosperous. Here it would be grateful to , the feelings of the author, were a thick veil drawn over its history, never to be raised ; but such is not the case. The decline and almost extinction of Hamilton College are remembered by those who survive. In November, 1823, an occurrence took place of the most astounding character. A small cannon, heavily loaded and plugged, was fired and burst, at two o'clock in the morning, on the fourth floor of one of the college buildings. It -was placed in the hall, by the side of a room occupied by a tutor, who, at the time, was asleep in an adjoining room. Although some of the students had a pique against the tutor, yet it -svas never suspected that there was any intention to take his life ; still, his escape was almost miraculous. His coat, which was hanging on a chair at the foot of his bed, was so rent as to preclude repair. The fragments of the cannon were thrown in every direction, some through the roof, and others through all the floors, quite into the basement. Somo of the windows in that section of the building, were almost annihilated, sash as well as glass. The side of the tutor's chamber was entirely swept away, and the door was found erect against the opposite wall. In the end, this event brought the institution to the very verge of dissolution, although such a result did not necessarily follow such a xn.] KIRKLAND. 199 cause. It is believed that, if there had been harmonious action between the board of trustees and the faculty, its prosperity need not have been disturbed ; but such was not the case. The faculty beUeved that, by the college by-laws, its -government was vested in them ; the trustees, or at least a majority of them, thought differently, and at a meeting of the board, a eommittee was appointed to investigate the matter. This eommittee made no progress in obtaining the names of the authors, although, providentially, the faculty were soon in possession of all the facts, and the names of the nine students concerned. The reader need not be -carried through the long labyrinth of troubles which fol lowed. A portion of the trustees wished the President to resign, which he distinctly refused to do, on the ground that his reputation was too deeply concerned to permit such a -course. Year after year of crimination and recrimination passed between a majority of the board and the President ; and as a house divided against itself can not stand, so, in the years 1829 and 1830 there was no graduating class. During a portion of these years, the college was reduced to nine students, and a part, perhaps all of these, were induced to remain to save the charter of the institution. " New measures," as they were termed, for producing religious revivals and excitements in Oneida County, became inter woven with their troubles. The Western Education Society had erected, in the vicinity of the college, a large boarding house, for the gratuitous boarding of its beneficiaries ; and as another of the evils the institution had to encounter, these students were a source of jealousy and annoyance to those who were able to defray their own expenses. After being thus brought to the very threshold of disso lution, better counsels prevailed. A portion of the trustees resigned, and others of difl'erent views were appointed. 200 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. " Charity Hall," as said boarding house was called, was sold, and became a private dwelling. The prospects of tbe college began to brighten. In 1831 there was a graduating class of nine, in 1832 of eleven, and in 1833 there were ninety-three students in attendance, and a graduating class of twenty. In 1832, Dr. Davis resigned the Presidency, but it was not accepted until the appointment of his successor, the Rev. Sereno E. Dwight, D. D , in 1833. Dr. Dwight con tinued in the Presidency but two years, and in 1835 he was succeeded by the Rev. Joseph Penny, D. D., who, in 1839, was succeeded by the present incumbent, the Rev. Simeon North, who had been for the previous ten years Professor of Languages in the institution. Since President North entered upon the Presidential duties, the college has been constantly gaining in public confidence. Indeed, it was never as flourishing as in 1849. This year the catalocrne shows a Senior Class of - 51 Juniors - 40 Sophomores 44 Freshmen 2:; Total 158 Of the Seniors, forty-seven graduated at the annual com mencement of this year, the largest number of graduates since the incorporation of the institution. Notwithstanding the clouds and darkness which have at times overshadowed this institution, the future in prospec tive is most cheering ; it is one of the bright and sunny spots in Central New York ; improvement is visible in its course. Some little change in the course of studies, such as experience may dictate, to bring it up to the standard of the age, and it will be all that its fondest friends can wish: or its founders hoped. XU.J KIRKLAND. 201 We are gratified that, on commencement day, the ludicrous chapeau and gown no longer disfigure the form of the President, but he appears in a plain suit of citizen's black. On the last commencement, when the atmosphere was rang ing near 110° Fahrenheit, the audience was not tortured with Greek and Latin exercises ; and it is fondly anticipated that, at no distant day, we shall hear the degrees conferred in plain Anglo-Saxon, that language of which it has been said, " Wherever it is spoken, there the rights of man are best understood." The dark ages are past, when the gaping multitude supposed that something supernatural is conferred in a collegiate degree. Now, it is believed that, in connec tion with a thorough course of studies pursued in disciplining the mind of the student, it is rendered almost priceless ; but it is not believed that four years spent in college in idleness and dissipation, and, if he is so fortunate as to receive one, a degree conferred in Latin, and a parchment inscribed in the same language, very well qualify the possessor for the active duties of after life. This history of Hamilton College can not be closed in any way so satisfactorily to the author, as by inscribing the following address of A. M. Stowe at the last commencement. Mr. Stowe was a member of the graduating class, and kindly furnished a copy, by request; — " Benignant Heaven did smile propitiously, and gave us proof of love to man, when, with Almighty hand, He made these rolling hills, and this delightful valley. I would ask those here to-day who have strolled in foreign lands,— lands where the muses sang most sweetly, I would ask. Where, in all thy rounds, didst find such scenes as these 1 Stroll through these groves, and climb the rugged hill with me, and, from the summit of some lofty brow, feast well thine eyes on Nature's most exquisite volume. " I come to speak at flrst, of those once lords of this fair land, -' whose foot-prints in the sands of time ' we have washed away, I 202 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. would point yon to their graves, if I knew where- to flnd them. Their graves ! They are all about us ; we tread each day upon the dust of noble men. 'We meet to-day where brave Oneida's sons once met in councils wise. Here curled the smoke, here ran the deer, and here the arrow flew. The war- whoop's deafening yell was heard from hill to hill, from glen to grove, most fair ; but cries like these were most unusual; Oneida's sons loved peace, and only when pro voked to deeds of bloody hue, would they go forth in dread array ; but when their ire was up, not one of all the five remaining nations dwelling round could stand before them. Like as the lion, when roused from peaceful rest by some intruder, they would make the earth to quake, and heaven's broad arch to ring. "A crude idea they had ofthe Great Spirit; to it they bowed with reverence. They bowed when it was seen in blasts terriflc, prostra ting mighty forest oaks ; they bowed when lightnings flashed across their path, and thunders pealed on high ; they also bowed when death, the mighty foe of all, unnerved their neighbor's arm, and laid his icy hand on tongue and vitals. But worshipped they not as the understanding Christian worships. For ages, no volume well inspired to them was known ; no true idea of duty, God, or flnal retribution. Their ideal heaven was in Elysium's plain, where game is found in great abundance, and fleetest hounds, and arrows true, secure them richest food. To such delightful home they hoped to go when the Great Spirit called them. In yon fair valley dwelt Oneida's tribe for ages ont of mind, and each successive generation stronger grew, till numbering many hundreds. "In this condition Samuel Kirkland found them. ¦\Then quite a youth, he left the halls of Princeton, from whose doors scores, not a few, have gone, to bless the world, and with a heart burning to be useful, he gave himself away, as give the men of God in this our own day, who go to foreign land to teach the ' way of life.' Oneidas' habits soon he learned, their language too; and then methinks I hear him say, ' 0, noble son of nature's wild domain, thou should'st not die without the truth ; the image of the Holy on thee is stamped ; with thee I'll spend my days, and count it pleasure.' One friend he had to comfort him ; save her, for years, he seldom saw the face of Saxon blood; but saw he something better, — he saw the natives turn their faces heavenward, and ask for mercy. Such faith and works as he possessed can not but succeed. His step was always welcome to the rudest wigwam ; the chiefs in him conflded. " Skenandoa, whose powerful intellect and native eloquence is on the lips of all, loved Kirkland much ; loved as those alone can love who worship God sincerely. He lived tiUfive score winters whistled through his locks, and died, — died as a Christian dies. His monn- xn.] KIRKLAND. 203 ment, plain, simple, time-worn, you will find on yonder hill, where sleeps the dust of some well-versed in classic lore. " England, with strong desire to make us pay a tax on tea, swarmed on our coasts by king's command. Of nations dweUing round this tribe, some joined onr foe, and used their influence strong to make Oneida's sons rush to the bloody fray. On council ground the chiefs of neighboring nations met. In harangues long and eloquent in their euphonious language, (so unlike our o-wn,) they spoke succes sively. Oneida's tribe did waver ; it felt the force of sophistry, which seldom is without efifect m this our day, when men of intellect per verted speak to the people. It seemed that one more burst of elo quence would turn the scales. The keen, discerning eye of Kirkland saw the crisis, and rose to make the final speech. His brow was calm as evening's placid waters. In their o-wn language, which he spoke most beautifuUy, he led them back to time when first he knew them ; afterward, with careful step he traced his way up to the present then, and drew the contrast. When the Great Spirit dictates man, he must prevail : no eloquence like that which comes from lips moved by the Great Eternal. Kirkland never dreamed of failure ; his faith and hope were strong. He did prevail. From that momentous hour, Oneida's sons buried the tomahawk, and always proved our friends. " With self-denial more than we can know, this holy man did labor, labored tUl aubm-n hair had blossomed white, and his firm step be came uncertain. He sowed the seeds of truth, he reaped a glorious harvest. To see the natives ' look and live ' was all his heart's de sire, and this he saw. " Should I pass by one certain act of that good man, you would think it -wrong. Turn then your thoughts far back, to that propitious day when Kirkland laid the corner-stone of our beloved college ; and as they gathered round, natives and all, his prayer went up like in cense pure, that it might prosper. May be, his spirit hovers o'er to-day ; delightful thought ! Would you know where his ashes sleep t On yonder hill side, go with me, my friends, and drop a tear ; not that he died, but that our path, compared with his, has beeu so crooked. But where is the tribe he loved so well, and for whose weal he sacri ficed so much 1 Time would fail to tell ; it would take a volume of octavo size to state their wrongs. The peeled and scattered rem nants will reply." Rev. Samuel Kirkland was born at Norwich, Conn., on the 1st of December, 1741. His father, the Rev. Daniel Kirkland, was the minister of that part of the town of Nor- 204 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. wich then called the parish of Newcut, and now the town of Lisbon. His mother's maiden name was Hannah Perkins. The Kirkland famUy, as the name indicates, is of Scotch descent, and in this country can be traced baek to Saybrook, Conn., in 1635. Among the thirty-six heads of families who were the early settlers of that place, the name of John Kirkland appears, who is said to have come from Silver street, London. Samuel, the subject of these memoirs, was the tenth in a family of twelve children. Little is known of his childhood and early youth: The first that can be learned of him is as a student at the Rev. Dr. Wheelock's school, at Lebanon, Conn., in 1761. He was there highly esteemed and beloved. He entered the Sophomore class of Nassau Hall, Princeton, N. J., in the autumn of 1762, and received his degree at Princeton in course, at the commencement in 1765. He had, ho-wever, previously left college, and at the time his degree was conferred, he had entered upon his missionary labors for the Indians. While at school at Lebanon he had made considerable proficiency in the Mohawk dialect, under the instruction of a young native, a fellow-student. This shows that, thus early, he was preparing himself for a mis sionary to the Six Nations. Mr. Kirkland's missionary expedition to the Senecas was undertaken at the early age of twenty-three, and was the first great act of his life, and abounded with romantic and perilous adventure. On his way, he arrived at Johnson Hall, the residence of Sir William Johnson, His Majesty's General Agent for Indian Affairs, on the 16th of November, 1764. He was kindly received by Sir William, who gave him a speech and a belt of wampum to deliver to the Sen ecas. Sir William also furnished him with an escort of two trusty Indians of that tribe, each conveying a pack of XII.] KIRKLAND. " 205 forty pounds' weight. He left the HaU January 17, 1765, and made the journey on snow shoes. On arriving at Kanonwalohule (Oneida Castle), the principal village of the Oneidas, the Indians, after being made acquainted with the object of his mission, expressed some concern for his safety, and gave him an invitation to remain with them one year. before visiting the Senecas. He thanked them for their kind intentions, but told them he must proceed, unless Providence hedged up his path. On his route from Oneida to Onondaga, being unused to walk on snow shoes, his ancles became much swollen, and he stayed one night and most of the next day at the latter place. As this was the central council fire of the Six Nations, the Onondagas claimed that the message of Sir WiUiam should first be delivered here. The missionary acceded to this, and gave the substance of the speech, to which the chief sachem replied, and then afiectionately embraced him, which was followed by the others present shaking his hands. On the 7th of February, towards evening, twenty-three days after leaving Johnson Hall, he arrived at Kanadasegea, the principal town of the Senecas. The two guides had been very kind, going before to make a track for him, but still he sufi'ered much from his swollen ancles. The day after his arrival a council was convened, and Sir William Johnson's address and belt of wampum delivered. These were thankfully received by the head sachem and a large majority of the nation, but there was, however, a small minority with sullen countenan ces, and this minority, headed by an influential chief, subse quently caused him great trouble. Mr. Kirkland was soon adopted into the family of the head chief; but the chief's house being crowded, it was determined that he should reside with a small family near by. In this family he was comfortable, and kindly treated ; 206 ' ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. but in a short time his host died very suddenly in the night, he having been in perfect health the day previous. These circumstances were seized upon by the enemies of the mis sion, and a council called, in which they tried to induce a decision for the death of the missionary. Better counsels, however, prevailed, the head sachem averting the threatened event. After this last council he lived in great harmony, friendship, and sociability. But famine drove him from his station near the end of April, and in company with his Indian brother and family, he returned to Sir William Johnson's. This journey was made in a bark canoe as far as the Oneida Lake; and on his way he called at Fort Brewerton, at the west end of the Lake, and enjoyed the hospitality of the commanding officer. Here the keenness of his -appetite was such, that his host had to restrain him, to prevent his injuring his health. In crossing the Oneida Lake they were overtaken by a storm, and their danger was most imminent ; they, however, made for a point upon the northern shore, and upon striking which, their frail craft, having been so much strained, fell to pieces. They reached Johnson Hall in the early part of May, and the first saluta tion of Sir William was, " My God, Mr. Kirkland, you look like a whipping post." After staying about three weeks, preparations were made for his return, and he was supplied, by Dr. Wheelock's order, with such necessaries as he would need the ensuing season. Sir William lent him a new blan ket, "on condition he would never return it." A second hand batteau was also presented him, in which to carry his provisions and baggage. His Indian brother, who had shared with him the downward passage, accompanied him on his return, and they reached Kanadasegea on the 29th of June. For some time matters went on very pleasantly ; he had acquired such knowledge of the language as to be able to xu.] KIRKLAND. 207 engage in common conversation; -his peace was, however, again disturbed by his old enemy the chief, who insisted that Mr. Kirkland's conitinuance would be the destruction of the nation, and announced it as his fixed purpose to put him to death if he did not leave ; and an attempt was made to put this threat into execution. A subordinate of the chief way laid him, and snapped his gun at him twice, which fortun ately missed fire. He left the Senecas in May, 1766, and arrived in Lebanon the 19th of that month. He was accompanied by a chief and his Indian brother, who were treated with great respect by the General Assembly, who were then in session. They were mu'eh affected by the kindness they received, and were greatly surprised to find the country so thickly peopled. Mr. Kirkland was ordained on the 19th of June, and the same day received a general commission as an Indian missionary from the Connecticut Board of Correspondents of the Society in Scotland. With his new commission he started, in July of that year, and took up his residence at Kanonwalohule, among the Oneidas. His principal reason for changing the field of his labors was, that he regarded the Oneidas, in moral qualities, as the noblest of the Six Nations, and altogether the most susceptible of religious impressions. His opportunities for arriring at a correct conclusion, had been good, for he had passed some time -with this people in passing to and from the Seneca country. A strong friend ship had already sprung up between himself and some of the chiefs. He commenced his missionary labors among the Oneidas about the first of August, 1766, and continued them, with but occasional interruptions, for more than forty years. In the November following, he succeeded in building himself a house, cutting and hcvring the timber, and digging the cellar, -with his own hands. Mr. Kirkland cultivated a 208 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [cHAP. garden on the same ground now occupied for the same pur pose by Hon. Timothy Jenkins. Among his first acts was an attempt to stop the tide of intemperance, in which he was quite successful. Eight of the chief men were appointed to seize all the intoxicating liquors which could be found, and destroy, or otherwise dispose of them. The effects of this strong measure were such, that about eighty casks of rum were carried through the town, and offered for sale, and even to be given away, yet not in one instance were the Indians prevailed upon to take it. The Divine blessing soon followed his labors. J^Iany individuals and families -n'ere converted to the Christian faith, and continued firm, adorning tiieir profession 'by lives of sobriety, industry, integrity, and piety. They became the steadfast "helpers in Christ Jesus" of their spiritual teacher. His poverty was such, however, as to retard his usefulness. In 1 769 he reeeived the first pecuniary assist ance from the Society in Scotland. An order dra-wn upon John Thornton, for one hundred pounds sterling, was sent him, and James Baine, of Scotland, sent him in addition thirty pounds. In 'the spring of 1769, his' health having failed him, he took a short respite to regain it. He spent the summer in Connecticut, and on the 15th of September of that year, he was married to Jerusha Bingham, the daughter of a respec table farmer. She was indeed an excellent woman, and well fitted, by her good sense and devout heart, to become the wife of a missionary. Shortly after his marriage, he returned to his post, accompanied by his wife. As it was necessary to enlarge his house from ten to sixteen feet square, he left Mrs. Kirkland in the famUy of Gen. Herkimer, on the Mohawk, untU he could accomplish it. This being com pleted, he removed her to her new residence in the latter SH-J KIRKLAND. \, 209 part of December. Mrs. Kirkland's influence was soon fejt in introducing order, neatness, industry, purity, and devotion among the Oneida women. In 1670, Mr. Kirkland visited Boston, when he was taken under the patronage of the Boston Board, and a salary of one hundred pounds a year as their missionary, and thirty pounds additional in consideration of his great pains and expense in learning the principal dialects of the Six Nations. Through the aid of the Boston Board, seconding the exer tions of the Indians, a meeting house, saw and grist mills, and a blacksmith's shop, were erected, and farming utensils purchased, in the course of a few years. The progress of a portion of the nation in acquiring the habits and arts of civil ized life, as well as in Christianity, was rapid. The corres pondence of this period between Mr. Kirkland and the Society in Scotland, shows that his missionary ser-rices were highly appreciated by the Society. Early in the summer of 1770, Mrs. Kirkland started, on horseback, for the fesidence of her mother, in Connecticut, but was unable to proceed farther than Gen. Herkimer's, at the foot of Fall HiU, on the Mohawk. Here she remained several weeks, and on the 17th of August gave birth to twin sons, named by their father, aftef his esteemed friends, George Whitfield and John Thornton. During her illness, she reeeived a letter from the celebrated George Whitfield, fuU of Christian consolation. As soon as her strength permitted, she returned to Oneida, to the great joy of the Indians, who immediately adopted the boys into the tribe, giving George the name La-go-ne-ost, and John that of Ah-gan-o-wis-ka, that is. Fair Face. Mrs. Kirkland passed the winter of 1772-73 in Stock- bridge, Massachusetts ; and as the turbulent times preceding and during the Revolution now commenced, she did ncrt; 14 210 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. return to Oneida until after the peace of 1783. A small farm was purchased at that place, upon which she and her family resided. Mr. Kirkland, however, continued his resi? dence and labors, as well as the unsettled state of the country would permit. He endeavored to keep the Indians in a state of neutrality, and this seems to have been the object of Congress, as appears by its records. (See chapter on Indian History.) With the Oneidas he -was to a great extent, although not entirely, successful, in the earlj- periods of the contest ; but subsequently, about two hundred and fifty warriors, under the celebrated chief Skenandoa, ren dered important service to the United States. Mr. Kirkland was commissioned as chaplain by the Con tinental Congress, and performed duty as sueh at Fort Stanwix, and other posts in the vicinity, during a large portion of the Revolutionary contest. In 1779 he was Brigade Chaplain in General Sullivan's campaign against the Indians, on the Susquehanna and tho v/estern part of New York, and witnessed that terrible retribution whieh was meted out by that General, for the British and savage bar barities inflicted upon our frontier. He continued with the expedition until late in the fall, when he visited his family at Stockbridge. During the remainder of the war, he spent the most of his time at Fort Stanwix andat Oneida Castle, as Kanonwalohule was then and is now called. In 1784 he again renewed his labors among the Oneidas, as directed by the Boston Board for the Society in Scotland. That Society, however, very properly refused to pay him his salary while employed as chaplain by Congress. In the fall of 1784, a great Council of the Six Nations was called at Fort Stanwix, at whieh commissioners on the part of thfr United States attended, and Mr. Kirkland was pre sent as interpreter, and aided, by his advice to the Indians, in bringing them to agree to terms of peace. xa] KIRKLAND 211 In 1786, a general religious awakening occurred among the Indians of Mr. Kirkland's charge at Oneida, and more than se-venty souls in the vUlages -were under serious im pressions. Tbe external reformation -was conspcnons ; and for more than seven months not a single instance of dmnken ness -was known in two of the viUages. The pagan party in the tribe were much annoyed by this state of things, and laid a plan to take the life of tbe Missdon.iry. In this they ¦were defie&ted by the Christian Indians, who hid him during the night in which tbe murder -was to ha-ve been perpetrated, and in a council held the next d.iy. the pagans were brought to terms, and asked Mr. Kirkland's pardon. His journals for 1?S6 and 1787 gave full satisfaction to the Society in Scotland, During the residence of Mr, Kirkland's fitmUj in Stock- bridge were born his son Samuel and three dan^ters, Jerusha, SaUy, and Kliza. "KTiUe Mr, Kirkland -was on a risit to his femily in January, 17S8, Mrs^ Kirkland died She was an exceUent woman, wifie, and motber. This was a severe blow to the mission, to the missionary, the husband, and the father, and his plan of remoring his fiimUy to Oneida the following spring -was frustrated ; be therefore returned soUtwrj and alone to bis labors. A considerable }\art; of the summer of 1788 was spent on a toTir among tbe western uaticms «f the confoderacy, as fer as Bnflalo Creek. At that place he fonnd a large concourse assembled, principaUy fixim the Six Natioi^ with some Dela-wares, Cherokees. and other -western and south ern Indians., and here he met many of his Mends of the Senecas, with whom be had become acquainted in 1765, and the greeting was most cordial. At tiiis conncil he bad in terviews -with Indians from efrry -dllage and branch of the Six Nations, and their whole population, £ram the best infor- 212 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. mation he could acquire, was then 4,350, exclusive of the Mohawks, who had removed to Grand River, in Canada. He also had an interview with the celebrated Brant, in which that great chieftain informed him, ho had been trying to unite the Indians in a confederacy, independent of white people, that a delegation from the Six Nations had visited twenty tribes, and that belts had been received importing a compliance with this plan, from all these nations. The ob ject of this alliance was, the peace and good of Indians, and not war with either Britons or Americans. This was a wise and righteous policy, and well worthy its originator. The main object of this council was the extinguishment of the Indian title to a tract of 6,144.000 acres, familiarly called the Genesee Coimtry. This land was granted by New York to Massachusetts, and sold by the latter State to Phelps & Gorham, for $1,000,000. This priee at the pre sent day, and but little more than sixty years afterwards, seems a low price for lands now worth on an average 8 60 per acre. For Mr. Kirkland's services at this treaty, Messrs. Phelps & Gorham subsequently gave him a deed of 2,000 acres, located in Ontario County, in the seventh township, seventh range of towns. Returning from this tour the latter part of August, he resumed his labors among the Oneidas. At this period, the intrigues and influence of the French traders among the Indians, began to interfere with his usefulness. In the spring of 1789, a French Roman Catholic Priest, who was a Jesuit, came to Oneida, and took up his residence near the lake, and clairaed to have been sent by the French Ambas sador at New York. Assisted by one Pennet, a French trader of great shrewdness, a considerable French party was soon formed among the Indians. Mr. Kirkland carefully avoided all disputes between the American and French xn.] KIRKLAND. ti\o parties. The spirit of animosity rose to such a pitch as to endanger the peace of the tribe. The author of this work recoUects of hearing, when but a small lad, his father stato that this quarrel at one time had risen so high, that nineteen Indians of one party and twenty of the other, all armed to the teeth, *iet with the determination to settle the matter by trial of battle, and for this purpose they had chosen a lar£;e room, where they had all met, and wore about to commenee their murderous contest, — which, had they proceeded with their purpose, would have eventuated iu the almost entire extermination of the wholo party, so equally balanced were they as to strength and numbers,- — when Mr. Kirkland by some means heard of the meeting of the parties and its object, and at once went to them, and obtained- admih.'rion. He then proceeded, in one of his most gloiviiig speeches, to depict the wickedness and folly of their shedding each other's blood, and with such eft'ect upon his savage auditors, that they were induced to forego their work of slaughter. During the difficulties between the American and French parties, each had written to Governor Clinton, of Now York, on the subject, who returned the following answer, whicli was translated to a full council of the tribe. This letter is \so replete with plain common sense argument, that it is be lieved it will well repay the perusal of every reader. New York, September 12, 1789. '•]3eothf;rs: — Ihave received your letters, and shall give you an iinsM-er. Mr. Pennet is only to he considered among you as an ad venturing merchant, pursuing his o^\'n interest. He hold.s no office, nor doe.-i he sustain any public character in this country. He at tempts to (locuive you, therefore, when he says ho is .sent hy the Kin? of France and tlio Marquis la Fnyctte, to transact businr-s,'; with you. You ought not to listen to his speeches, nor pay an.v attention to his dreams.'" * Pennet had dreamed that the Oneidas gave him flve miles equai-c of their best land. 214 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. " The King of France is our good ally, and he has an ambassador here (whom you saw with me at Fort Stanwix last fall) to transact business aud maintain friendship with tho United States ; but he has nothing to do with any particular State, or the Indians residing in it. You must not, therefore, believe Mr. Pennet, when ho says he is sent among you by the ambassador. I believe the priest now among you came at the request of Mr. Pennet and his friends. Tliey have a right to worship God in a manner most agreeable to ffliem ; but I approve of your determination to adhere to your old minister, for I fear the preaching of difl'erent doctrines among you will only servo to perplex and puzzle your understandings ; and divisions, cither in respect to your temporal or spiritual concerns, may prove dangerous to your welfare and prosperity. " Brothers : — I am happy to hear you are flrmly united as to our late agreement, and you may be assured that it will bo laithfull.v adhered to on the part of tho Stute. " Let me exhort you to sobriety and industry, for it is this alone, by the blessing of the Great Spirit, that can secure to your comfort and happiness. " I am your friend and brother, George Clinton." This letter did much to produce quiet, for it unmasked the character of Pennet, and confirmed the wavering. The year 1790 was one of comparative quiet. Taught a lesson of wisdom by the severe sufferings from famine the previous year, the Indians paid greater attention to agri culture. One family harvested more than one hundred bushels of wheat, a greater quantity than had been ever raised before in the territory of the Six Nations by Indian culture. The only incident giving variety to the life of the mission ary this summer, was the arrival of Count Adriani, an Italian nobleman, who spent several days at Oneida ; and the chief pleasure Mr. Kirkland derived from this visit, was in the confirmation of his own previous opinion respect ing the musical powers of the Indians. The Count said lie thought " the melody of their musio, and the softness and sil] kirkxand. 215 richness of their voices, were equal to any he ever heard in Italy.'' In January. 1791, JMr. Kirkland again visited his chil dren, but shortly returned to resume his arduous duties. A difficulty of long standing between the Wolf tribe and the Turtle and Bear tribes, caused by the Intrigues of the French traders, was brought by him to a peaceful issue. He wrote to General Knox, advising the sending of Capt. Hen drick, a Stockbridge Indian, upon a mission te the western and south-western tribes. The plan was approved, and Capt. Hendrick sent, to endeavor to keep these Indians in a stale of peace : he was, however, unsuccessful, and the bloody defeat of St. Clair foUowed in November. In January. 1792. in compliance with the wish of Gen. Knox, Secretary of War, 3Ir. Kirkland attended a council ¦-if the Six Nations at Geneseo. The object of this council was to induce the Sis Nations to send a delegation to Philadelphia, then the seat of government of the United ."^tates. After surmounting many difficulties, Mr. Kirkland was at last sueeessfnl, and a delegation of forty reached Philadelphia late in 3{arch. 3Ir. Kirkland's conduct was entirely approved by the TTar Department. Indeed, the credit of bringing this large representation of the Six Nations to the seat of government is due, and the success attending the measure is attributable, mainly to his eiforts and influ ence with the Indians. Its results were highly important, for there had been previously a strong disposition among the Six Nations, with the exception of the Oneidas, to make common cause with the western Indians in their hostility to 'he United States. Had they done so, the frontiers of New York and Pennsylvania, instead of the territory north-west of the Ohio, would have been the seat of savage warfare and barbarity. Such a calamity was averted by the visit to the 216 ANNALS OF ONEJDA COUNTY. [CHAP. seat of government of so large a number of chiefs. Mr. Kirkland returned to Oneida about the middle of May, rejoicing in being able to return to the immediate duties of his mission,, but with a consciousness that he had been in the way of his duty, and had rendered some servioe to his country, to the Indians, and to the cause of humanity. The family of Mr. Kirkland had, in October, 1791, re moved to the land given him by the Indians and the State. After his return from Philadelphia, iu May, 1792, he spent the summer in the discharge of his missionary duties, and superintending the measures adopted by government for the instruction of the Indians in agriculture and the arts of civilized life. Additional oxen, plows, and other farming implements, were purchased and distributed. In August he attended the commencement of Dartmouth College, and took with him an Oneida chief, by the name of Onondega, but called by the whites Captain John. During the exercises. President 'Wheelock addressed Captain John, and the latter replied, and in the close of his remarks he addressed the graduating class, in a strain of wisdom which ¦R-ould bo an ornament in the address of finy President of a college in his counsels to the young men at the close of their collegiate studies. In October, Mr. Kirkland injured one of his eyes while riding through the woods from his residence, near Clinton, to Oneida, and in December his sight and general health had heGonie so much aff'ected, ^that his physician recom mended a journey, and application to oculists in New York and Philadelphia^ He was the more disposed to make this journey, because, in addition to the benefit to his health, it would enable him to do something for the furtherance of an object he had near his heart. His plan for the education of the Indians embraced a High School or Academy. An XII- ] KIRKLAND. 217 institution of this kind, to be located near what was then the boundary line between the white and Indian population, 3Ir. Kirkland had long regarded as of great importance for the improvement of both. This project was warmly seconded by all the inteUigent and influential persons who had enii- sirated from New England to the towns of "Whitestown, Paris, and "Westmoreland. They had faint hopes indeed of any great benefit to the Indians, but felt its importance to the growing communities around them. In his journey he saw and conversed with many influential indi-viduals on the subject. At PhUadelphia he saw President Washington, who "expressed a warm interest in the Institution;" and at New York he saw the Governor of the State and the Regents of the University, and took the initiatory steps for a char ter. Mr. HamUton had previously consented to be named as one of the trustees in the petition for incorporation. Early in 1793 the institution was incorporated, by the name of - Hamilton Oneida Academy." But 3Ir. Kirk land's services to the institution did not end here. In April of that year he made it a valuable donation in lands, the preamble to the title-deed of which is as follows: — "A serious consideration of the importance of education, and an early improvement and cultivation of the human mind, togetber -with the situation of the frontier settlement of this part of the State, though extensive and flourishing, yet destitute of any weU regulated seminary of learning, has induced and determined me to contribute of the ability where-with my Heavenly Benefactor hath blessed me, towards laying the foundation and support of a school, or academy, in the town of Whitestown, County of Herkimer, contiguous to the Oneida Nation of Indians, for the mutual benefit of the young and flourishing settlements in said county, and the various tribes of confederated Indians, earnestly wishing 218 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP., the institution may grow and flourish, that the advantages of it may be extensive and lasting, and that, under the smiles of the God of wisdom and goodness, it may prove an emi nent means of diflnising useful knowledge, enlarging the bounds of human happiness, aiding the reign of virtue and the kingdom of the blessed Redeemer." This preamble is followed by a deed conveying to the trustees of Hamilton Oneida Academy several parcels of land, containing in all several hundred acres. One lot of twelve acres was declared to be inalienable, and this is the " ground plot," as it is termed, upon which Hamilton College now stands. The remainder of the lots were left to the disposition of said trustees. The establishment of this school was the last important act in Mr. Kirkland's life. The Pennet party caused him much trouble, and in 1794 they made an unsuccessful effort to have him superseded. The Rev. Drs. Belknap and Morse were appointed a com mittee by the board to investigate the grounds of complamt, and reported favorably to Mr. Kirkland, and upon this report, and the testimony adduced by him, the board dis missed the complaint. In 1795, by' the stumbling of his horse, Mr. Kirkland was thrown upon the hard ground, with great violence. He never recovered' from the effects of this fall, but for five or six years was much of the time an invalid. In 1797, the Society in Scotland dissolved its eonnection with Mr. Kirkland, and about the same time the Society discontinued most of its missionary operations in the United States. In 1805 his youngest son, Samuel, died in Boston, and in 1806 his son George W., in Jamaica. As far as health would permit, Mr. Kirkland continued his labors at Oneida through life. The Christian church at that place, as long as he survived, regarded him as their xn.] KIRKLAND. 219' missionary and pastor. In one of his last communications to the Society he says, — "Whether I hold the office [of missionary] or not, while I live, and have any capacity for service, I must do much of the duty. I know their language and manners, I love them, and they me. I have learned to bear with their ignorance, their perverseness, their dulness, and not be angry, or despondent. They must and always wUl come to me, and expect to receive counsel, instruction, sympathy, and hospitality." He frequently expended the whole of his salary in his hospitality to them, and it was no unusual thing for him to furnish seventy, eighty, and even a hundred meals in a single week to the Indians. Even after his death they seemed to expect, and claimed almost as a right, the same attention and hospitality they had ever received in his lifetime. After a brief but severe illness, he died of pleurisy, on the 28th of February, 1808. His remains were carried to the church in Clinton, where a funeral sermon was preached by the Rev. Dr. Norton. He was interred in a private grave near his house, where, on one side, rest the remains of his widow* and youngest daughter, and on the other the celebrated Skenandoa. His daughters were all married : Jerusha, the eldest, (now the sole survivor of the family,) in 1797, to John H. Loth rop, Esq., of Utica; the next, Sarah, in 1804, to Francis Amory, of Boston, and the youngest, Eliza, in 1818, to Rev. Edward Robinson, D. D., then Professor in Hamilton Col lege, and subsequently known as an oriental traveller, and now a Professor in the Union Theological Seminary of New York City. His sons George W. and Samuel died un married ; John T. married late in life, and had no children, ? Mr. Kirkland was married a second time. His second wife sur vived him several years, and it is her remains that rest beside his. 220 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. SO that there is no descendant of Mr. Kirkland bearing Kis name. Perhaps the reader may think that the memoirs of Mr. Kirkland have been made too prolix for a work of this kind. The incidents of his life were, however, so varied, and abound with so many important and useful data, that, in the opinion of the writer, they could not have been abridged without detracting materially from the instruction they fur nish, and the interest they possess. To have omitted more, would have been to mar tbe fair proportions of the super structure, — -a well spent life." Much of detail, and many- things possessing interest to the various classes of readers, are necessarily omitted for want of room. For the material s> of this sketch, the author is chiefly indebted to the Life of Mr. K'lrhlancl, written by his grandson, Samuel Kirkland Lothrop. Moses Foote, who was the "leading spirit" of Clinton, was born August 4, 1734, in the town of Waterbury, Conn. He was the son of Moses Foot, who was born January 13, 1702, who was the son of Nathaniel Foote, who was born April 13, 1660,' and he the .son of Robert Foote, who was born about 1627, and he the son of Deacon Nathaniel Foote, who was born about 1593, and emigrated from England to Wethersfield, Conn. The subject of this sketch was twice married, first to Thankful Bronson, of Waterbury, August 12, 1756; by this marriage he had one son, Bronson Foote, who was a soldier of the Revolution, and died in Clinton, August 30, 1836, aged 79. The second marriage was to Amy Richards, May 17, 1758, and by which he had nine children, viz.: — Ira, Thankful, Luther, Amy and Anna (twins), Moses, Arunah, Jairus and Betsey (twins). Of these, Thankful, su.] KIRKLAND. 221 (the wife of Major Barnabas Pond.) Amy, Bloses, Arunah, and Betsey, (the wife of Deacon Gold Benedict,) died in CUnton. Little is known of the biography of Mr. Foote, other than that related in the account of the early settlement of Clinton. He was engaged as a soldier in securing the independence of his country, the contest for which had but just closed when he put his fortitude to a severer test, by emigrating to the vicinity of the Oneidas, and subduing a portion of the tangled, heavily-timbered forest. He was eminently fitted by nature for a pioneer settler, endowed with an iron frame, full six feet in height, and- of a temperament and muscular texture capable of almost any amount of hardship and privation, and also possessing a large share of native shrewdness and sagacity. He lived to wit ness the progress of society, as it swept like an avalanche over Central and Western New York, making the wilderness literally to "blossom like the rose." He lived to see his own Clinton become a flourishing village, with a well-endowed college within its bounds ; he lived to see also the commence ment of that stupendous work, the Erie Canal, and its middle section nearly completed, and agricultural products raised upon lands cleared by his own hands, transported upon its bosom to the Atlantic markets ; and this, too, over a route a portion of which, forty years before, he had on foot threaded his way, without even that first inipress of civilization, — a road. He died in Clinton, February 9, 1819, aged 84. It may not be improper here to say, that John and Ado nijah Foote, brothers, who were early settlers in the to-wn of "V^ernon, and the former of whom died in that town, in 1833, the latter still living, were descendants from the same stock, as also was the Hon. Elial T. Foote, who for about twenty- five years was a Judge, and the last twenty years of the time. First Judge of Chautauque County. 222 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP, Jesse Curtiss. — In the foregoing sketch of thehistory of the town of Kirkland, the author has made "honorable mention" of the name of Jesse Curtiss, but since it was penned, he too, " like a shook of corn, fully ripe," has been gathered to his fathers. An obituary, published in the Oneida 'Whig shortly after his death, and from which the following are extracts, is but a just tribute to departed worth. " DiEn, at his residence in Clinton, Oneida County, N. Y., on the 19th of January, 1850, Jesse Curtiss, Esq., aged 83 years. '¦ The press is often called upon to record the names of that race of men of fearless hearts, honest heads, and iron sinews, who settled the County of Oneida. One hy one the survivors of another gene ration are departing, and soon the last foot-print of the la.-) Freeman Perry 1 Lyman Sexton ? .> John J. Castle 2 Jerome Cheesebrouj ?h- 1 Mansir G. Phillips 1 Charles Stokes (the present incumbent) O The southerly portion of the town, whicli has but a slight elevation from the village of Rome, has a very warm, pro ductive soil, some sections of which resemble the cobble stone and gravelly plain on which the village of Rome is located, while other sections are a sandy loam. There is no part of the county better adapted than this to the raising of Indian corn ; indeed, it p-oduces well all those kinds of grain and grass cultivated in Central New York. From this portion of the town, the land rises to an altitude approximating the high lands in the north part of the county. This is a good XIU.] LEE. 229 section for pasturage, grass, oats, potatoes, etc. ; and its farm ers are now turning their attention to dairying and the raising of stock, as the most productive farming of which their soil is capable ; and it is worthy of remark, that the more elevated portions of the county, where the agriculturists are engaged in dairying and the raising of stock, are full equally flourishing with those parts adapted to the raising of grain, however much more these sections are inviting in appear ance. On Fish Creek, where it forms the north-west boun dary of the town, there are extensive quarries of good building stone. Other than these, there are no quarries, and the in habitants in the other sections have to use for building purposes, the small bowlders and cobble stone in their neighborhood, or draw them quite a distance. The early settlers were much annoyed by bears and wolves, committing depredations on their herds of swine and flocks of sheep. The large tract of low land and swamp on Wood Creek, towards its confluence with the Oneida Lake, made a sure retreat in the day time for these pests of the new settlers, and the proximity of their place of shelter to these new settlements, enabled them to gratify their appetites for pork and mutton at the expense of the inhabitants. To obviate this, these domestic animals had to be driven up and yarded each night, and it was surprising how soon the flocks of sheep would learn the voice of their owner in collecting them to their place of safety, their numbers often made minus one or two, even in the day time. Two sons of the Emerald Isle, by the name of Thomas and Henry Cunningham, were rolling logs, to clear a farm they had purchased; when they heard the most piteous cries from one of their porkers, proceeding from the edge of the forest, in the immediate vicinity of where they were at work. Not wishing to part with their embryo bacon without makinir 230 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. an effort, they flew to the rescue, -with no other or better offensive weapons than the handspikes with which they were at work. "When they had got to the place of the encounter, they found Bruin had the hog in close embrace, and had already commenced making a meal from that whieh its owners had fondly anticipated -would in the fall have formed one of the substantials for the feeding of their own house holds. The trespasser could very readUy have parried the blows of one assaUant, but had not an extra eye nor arm for the two, especiaUy when the blows fell in mo.st rapid suc- ':-e.=sion, and soon the depredator had to yield the conte>t and his life, to a weU-aimed heavy blow on the cranium. This was on the farm now owned by George Remington. The first c-hUd bom in the to-wn was Fenner SLeidon, a son cf Reuben Sheldon, one of the two brothers who first .-ettled at Delta. Hewas bom in the year 1701. and yet resides in the town, in the vicinity of -Lee Centre." His parents were advised to apply to the patentee; for a land warrant for their son, as the first-bom in that vicinity : but if the appUeation was made, it must have been unsnc-ce-.sf'ul. a? the son never received the •• bounty land." The first death in Lee was that of a young mau named Job Kaird, aged twenty years, who died in 1795. Hi- disease was the biUous putrid fever, the germ of which he brought from the vicinity of Wood Creek and the Oneida Lake. Alvan Young, Esq.. yet residing in the town, well rememlers attending the funeral, about one mUe from his father 3 residence, and on the farm now occupied by Freeman MUks. and speaks quite confidently that this was the first death in the limits of the town. The first marriage was that of Mr. Dan AlUler, to MLss Amy Taft. daughter of WUUam Taft. The next was that of two daughters of Mr. James Young, to young men in their mil] LEE. 231 neighborhood- Unfortunately, the author has not obtained the dates of these first weddings, but they took place early in the' settlement of the town. The first saw mill erected in Lee, was built either in 1791 or 1792, by David Smith, Esq., on tlie Mohawk River, on the site of tho present mills in the vilLage of Delta. Tho second saw mill was erected in 1796, by John Hall and Smith MUler, on the Canada Creek, at Lee Centre. There are now twenty saw niiUs iu the town, the most of thoiu doing good business. The first grist mill in Lee, or indeed in this section of tho eounty, was built by Gen. WiUiam Floyd, in 1796. It was situate on Canada Creek, ono and a half miles south of Leo Centre, and near the line between Leo and Rome. It accommodated a large section of country, tliere being at tho time of its erection no grist mill nearer than at Whitesboro. 3Iany of tho eai'ly grists brought to this mill, came on the backs of the owners, horses iu those days being a luxury beyond the means of most of the settlers. This ancient mill, erected by tho immortal signer of the Declaration of Inde pendence, has long since been in ruins, aud its site aban doned. The second grist mill in the town was built in tho year 1798, by Thomas and AV^illiani Forfar, emigrants from the Highlands of Scotland. It was located on Canada Clreok, on the site now. occupied by the mill at Lee Centre. There are now two grist and flouring mills in the town, one in Delta and the other at Lee Centre, each doing an exten sive business. The first school house was erected in 1796 or 1797, by tho voluntary contributions of the inhabitants, in money, mate rials, and labor, and was situated one mile south-east from Lee Centre. In this pioneer school house, many of the eai'ly sons and daughters of Lee reeeived their first lessons 232 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. in the rudiments of a common school education. Some of them yet reside in the town, and they say if some luckless wight failed to get a fair portion of ideas by the ordinary- course of study, as the course of discipline then was, the knights who occupied the chair pedagogic would make the attempt to quicken the perceptions by a smart appUeation of the hand on the ear, and if that faUed, an effort was made to reach the seat of knowledge through the cuticle of the back. by a thorough appUeation of the rod. The manufacture of leather was commenced on a small scale as early as 1815. There are now four tanneries in the town, doing a fair but not extensive busroess. There are three wool-carding and cloth-dressing estabUsh- ments, in one of which the manufacture of woolen cloths i.s carried on to a considerable extent. There are also in the town an extensive plow manufactory. two lathes for the turning of wood, driven by water power. and seven dry goods and grocery stores. F..ELIG10US SOCIETIES. The first ehurch organization in the town was a Congrc- gatirynal Church, constituted as early as 1797, and ten of its members, seven males and three females, belonged to the limits of the present town of Lee, viz. : — Nathan Barlow. Lydia Barlow, John HaU, Dan MUler, James Young, Han nah Young, Ebenezer Seymour and wife, Joseph Simmons. and Eliakim Miller. There were a few also who united with this body who resided in the present town of Westem, Joshua Wills and wife, Hezekiah Elmer and wife, and perhaps one or two others. The first pastor of this church was the Rev. James Southworth. then the Rev. Mr. Norton. XIIL] LEE. 233 Missionaries for a time — Rev. Mr. Cook, Rev. Mr. Leavens- worth, Rev. John Alexander, Rev. Mr. Long, Rev. Mr. HaU, Rev. Simeon Snow, Rev. Clement Lewis. The present pas tor (1850) is the Rev. Mr. Edwards. It is now under the Presbyterian form of government, and has about thirty members. This society used as a house of worship, for about twenty years, the school house noticed as the first in town. f The Metliodists are the most numerous body of Chris tians in Lee. They have a respectable house for public worship in Delta, besides a share in the house belonging to the " Union Ecclesiastical Society," at Lee Centre. This last-named house was erected in 1819, and was the first house for public worship in the town. . The Methodists are supplied by circuit preachers, the Rev. Messrs. Chidester and Richards supplying them in 1850. The Friends have quite a numerous society and a house for worship located near the West Branch Post Office, in this town. The Universalists have a society in this town, and have for their present pastor the Rev. Mr. J. S. Kibbe, alternately holdiilg their meetings with the Methodists in the " Union Church." The common schools previous to 1849 had been well sus tained, were flourishing, and the cause of education rapidly advancing. Few towns could produce an equal amount of talent in useful and active life, which had been developed but in the common schools. In 1845 there were seventeen public schools in successful operation. The school house at Lee 234 ANTJALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP.- Centre is a good two-story wooden building. The cost of the several school houses, and the land conneeted with them was i$ 3,768. The first settlers in the region of Fish Creek possessed one advantage over the early settlers iu many other parts of the country. The luxury of the "roast beef," pork, and mutton, of older settlements, is sparingly enjoyed in new ; but in the neighborhood of the creek, the luscious salmon almost compensated for the deprivation. From the time the salmon made their first appearance in the spring untU fall, the supply was only limited by the demand, and after the wants of " home consumption" had been satisfied, the surplus was frequently taken to gratify the voluptuaries at Fort Stanwix, Whitestown, and Old Fort Schuyler. 3Iany of the inhabitants thus drew from Fish Creek a considerable part of their support. In the fall they were salted do-wn for winter's use, and formed a far more palatable substitute for -• meat victuals," than did the salted pigeons substituted by the pioneers of Whitesboro. There are no large vUlages in this town, but there are four points where business centres. In the west part of the town, on the Rome and Taberg plank road, is a small cluster of houses, mechanics, etc., and there are in the vicinity four saw mUls, and other machinery on West Creek, a stream that empties into Fish Creek. Here is the Lee Post Office, and a tavern. Lee Centre, as its name indicates, is centrally located in the to-wn. Here are a number of dweUings, the Union Church, two stores, a tavem, a grist and saw miU, Lee Centre Post Office, a tannery, with various shops for mechan ics. It is a quiet country village, isolated from the bustle of canals, raU or plank roads, yet its water power makes it a place of some importance and considerable business. It is XIII.J LEE. 235 situated on the Canada Creek, a stream sufficient to turn quite an amount of machinery, that empties into Wood Creek westerly from Rome. Nisbet's Corners are about two mUes easterly from the Centre, where the road from that place to Delta crosses the Rome and Turin plank road. Here is a store, tavern, and a small collection of dwellings and shops, and Stoke's Post Office. This place takes its name from Robert Nisbet, a gentleman from Adams, Mass., who settled here about the year 1818, and resided here until his death, which occurred in March, 1839. He was a prominent and active business man. For many years he was confessedly the best farmer in the county, and in his farm management probably had few superiors in the country. He was also extensively en gaged in the produce business, and did more at an early day to introduce and encourage good dairying in this part of the State, than any other person. The little village which bears his name, was built up under the infiuence of his active and extended business, and for many years pre sented, during the autumn, the stir and activity often not witnessed in towns of a mueh larger population, but lacking the energy of a master spirit to guide and direct its opera tions. The influence of Mr. Nisbet's example and advice has contributed largely to the agricultural improvement, not only of the town where he resided, but of this entire section of country. This brief tribute to his memory is not therefore undeserved. Delta is situated in the extreme eastern fart of the town, a small portion of the village being in Western. It lies on the westerly side of the Mohawk River, which affords it an abundant water power. Delta has a post office of that name, a Methodist Church, a, grist and flouring 235 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. mill, a saw mUl, a large distiUery, a plow factory, a wool carding, cloth dressing, and woolen manufacturing establish ment, and the various mechanics usually found in a coun try village, with quite a collection of respectable dwelling houses. XIV.] MARCY. •.;:37 CHAPTER XIV. JIAUCY. In the year 1 740, and in the north of Ireland, were wit nessed the parting adieus of a young man and his lately betrothed wife, to parents, brothers, and sisters, and the dear friends of their chUdhood and youth. The parting over, a long, long, lingering look was given to the green valley that had ever been their home, and where the shamrock covered the happy playgrounds of chUdhood ; a long farewell was in wardly breathed to Ireland, and the journey to the harbor of embarkation was at once commenced. They had heard of " swate Americy," the home for the oppressed and poor, where labor was abundant, and wages fuUy compensated for its toU, and, above aU, where but a smaU portion of the laborer's earnings were swaUowed up in rents, tythes, and taxes. To this El Dorado of their imaginations were our young emigrants about to exUe themselves. Having crossed the wide Atlantic, the town of Plainfield, in the State of Connecticut, was selected for their future home. Poor in this world's goods, yet rich in each other's love, in stout hearts, strong arms, and persevering industry, they eould hardly fail to be successful. At the end of twenty-five years, we find our emigrants with ample com petence, almost rich, and -with ten healthy chUdren, nine sons and a daughter. Another emigration now became necessary, to secure farms and homes for this numerous 238 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. progeny. Vermont was then the "New Country," whose woods and cheap lands were inviting the tide of emigration. and in 1765 we find our Irish-Yankee settled in the town and County of Windsor, in that territory, then claimed by 'New York and New Hampshire. A few years found them with good farms, cleared of their primeval forests ; then came the time tbat "tried men's souls," and eight of the nine sons were found with the Green Mountain Boys, battling f'or their country. The ninth and youngest would have joined Ills comrades, but his age did not come up to the continental standard. What 'was seemingly remarkable, they all lived to see their country's independence established; although some were " during the war's '' men, no bullet had been com missioned to harm them, and being some of the iron men of that age, tbey had withstood the hardships and privations which swept so many of the soldiers of independence to un timely graves. Vermont not coming fully up to their anticipations, four of the sons were among the earliest settlors of the town of Marcy. John Wilson, the sixth son, was the first person who removed within the present limits of the town. He came in the spring of 1793, and brought a large family of children, all under eighteen years of age. He settled upon a river farm, abont half a mile east of the Nine Mile Creek, where he built a small log house, and cleared several acres of land. In the fall he was taken ill of a bilious fever, and died, and several of his elder children continued to reside on the farm, while the younger separated, and went to live with different relatives. Early in 1794, James WUson, the seventh son of the Irish emigrant, arrived in the town. A Dutchman, named TuU, had preceded him, and built a log house eighteen feet square, in which he and his family, in all twelve persons, were living. The house stood on the ba"i' XIV.] MARCY. 239 of the Nine Mile Creek, about sixty rods above its junction with the Mohawk. Like all new settlers, TuU's latchstring was out, and James AVilson removed in with the already crowded household, adding six to their numbers, and there remained until spring, when he purchased a "new lot," as unimproved lands were then called, about one mile north of the Oriskany village, upon which he moved. His first efforts in agriculture were unfortunate. He cleared a few acres the first spring, and planted it -n'ith corn, adding a liberal supply of pumpkin seed to the corn seed. The pigeons pulled up every stalk of the corn, leaving the pump kins to luxuriate alone on the virgin soil. Their numbers were legions, and their size enormous, but they were his only produce the first year, and consequently the hardships of the settlers were trying and severe, as the oxen and cows had to be fed the first winter from the tops of the elm, basswood, and maple. Hardships were, however, borne without com plaint, and at the end of fifteen years from his arrival, he was a wealthy farmer. In 1794, Isaac and Jacob Wilson, fourth and fifth sons of Thomas Wilson, removed into this town, in the neighbor hood of their brother. Oiihese Jirst settlers, not an individual now remains in the town, all having died or removed ; the last, Thomas, son of James Wilson, who was but a small lad when he arrived, having recently removed to the town of Vernon. Of the early settlers, among whom were the Careys, Camps, and others, several still reside in the town. The first settlers were mostly uneducated men, yet with their rude manners, kind and neighborly. They were in the habit of meeting at some one of their houses, to celebrate the advent of the new year. A "rich supper," as they termed it, was provided, by each furnishing the articles in which he most abounded ; and the result was, that these 240 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. suppers exhibited a bountiful supply of turkeys, chickens, pies, oakes, etc. After the supper, the young people spent the evening in dancing, while the older ones told their stories and cracked their jokes. Strong drink was freely used, although by few to intoxi cation ; for this was before the invention of temperance societies. Logging and wood bees were also the order of the day, to whicli a whole neighborhood were invited, to give one of their number a lift in drawing, piling, and burning logs, in clearing land, or to cut and draw fire wood. It is very questionable whether those who have succeeded them enjoy life with as high ' a relish as they did. They were a plain people, manufacturing in their families almost every article of their wearing apparel, the fabric of which, though coarse, and colored from the bark of the hemlock, soft maple, but ternut, and hazel, was warm and durable. The females, or as they might be termed, " nature's ladies,'' were well fitted, by inclination and habit, for pioneers ; and threading the paths through their tangled forests on foot, or at best on horseback, was to them a pastime. An instance might be given of a young married woman, who, wishing to visit her father's family, some three miles distant, at the plaoe now known as Colman's Mills, in the town of Whitestown, went to the pasture, caught a highly spirited four years old horse, manufactured a halter from her home-spun, home-woven, long and strong unmentionables, and without other head gear for her horse, or even a saddle, performed the journey, having to ford or swim the Mohawk at the " Oxbow," on her outward and homeward passage. She had a pleasant visit, and her, it must be confessed, perilous ride, was performed without accident. This town, in common with the early settlements of the county, suffered much from the depredations of bears, wolves, XIV.] MARCY. 24 1 and foxes, and some of the early settlers soon learned to fee quite skilful in making the bears rue their depredations in the corn fields. Probably a Mr. Hall had acquired the '• art and mystery " beyond any of his cotemporaries, for at one time he had sixteen of their pe'lts stretched on the sides of a barn to dry. The early settlers in general enjoyed good health, and but occasionally a case of bilious or intermittent fever occurred in the valley of the Mohawk, or on the margin of a mill pond. Consumption was hardly known, but of late years almost one half the deaths in the town are from this dis ease. The principal causes for this change would doubtless be found in the different modes of living, and the warm houses, heated in winter almost to suffocation by stoves, and then the sudden transition into the cold north-westers of our climate. A portion of the first settlers were not very strict in their observance of the Lord's-day, and a number of them used to congregate on this day upon the Mohawk Flat, near the Oxbow, to talk over the news of the day, etc. Two lads, of about fourteen years, took a rather novel way to cure the evil. Near the place of rendezvous stood a tall pine tree, the top of which grew so thick as to be quite impenetrable to the eye, and one Sunday morning, previous to the time of gathering, the boys, with testament in hand, and taking advantage of a thickly-limbed cedar which shot up beside the trunk of the pine, reached the thick top of the latter, and snugly ensconsed themselves within it. At the usua,l time the loiterers convened, and soon one of the boys, in a loud but sepulchral tone, commenced reading from the sacred volume texts against the desecration of the day. Occasionally the reader would interlard the selected scrip tures with an admonition to desist from the bad example 16 242 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. they were setting their children. The hearers strained their optics to see from whence came the warnings, but no dis covery was made. They, however, very soon left, and the cure was most perfect. For more than thirty years the principal actors in this scene kept the secret locked in their own breasts, but after their whole congregation were either dead or removed from the town, one of them divulged the whole matter. Geology. — There is nothing dissimilar in the geological formation of this town, from that of many of the towns in the county. Commencing on the southerly side of the town, which is bounded on the Mohawk River, we find the alluvial flats common to the stream, and the alluvial deposits are in many parts of great depth. In digging a well on that flat, a frog in a torpid state was found, encased in clay and gravel, twenty feet below the surface. After being exposed to the air a short timej animation returned, but it survived but a few hours. The- flats in this town are of various widths, but in general the whole width is about one mile, and as the river meanders from side to side, it leaves at some places the larger portion in this town, and at others a large portion in the adjoining town of Whitestown, while at others the river is nearly central. When not too -wet, they are very productive. Rising from the flats, there is a strip of table land, averaging about one hundred rods in width, and which is much higher in the north-western than in the south eastern parts of the town. Opposite the Oriskany village, the hill is very considerable, while against Whitesboro it has but a slight elevation above the alluvial flats. In the lower part of the town, the soil of this table is almost entirely sand, warm and quick, and, with high manuring, very prOr Xrv.] MAECY. 243 ductive. In passing up the Mohawk to a point opposite the upper part of Whitesboro, there is found a small rivulet which rises on the hills at the north, and empties into the river, passing between the residences of Milton and Horace Dyer, and this stream is the boundary between the sandy and gravelly portions of the table land ; above it is entirely gravel. The cobble stone and gravel of this section have the appearance of once having been washed, and occasionally clumps of petrified shells are found, a strong indication that this table was at some period covered with water. If, as many suppose, — and there are certainly very strong reasons for the opinion, — Fall Hill at the Little Falls was the east ern terminus of a lake which once occupied the Mohawk valley above, then the depth of water would have been suf ficient to have covered this table land. It is very productive, the earth thrown from wells fifteen or twenty feet in depth, possesses all the fertility of that on the surface. Leaving the table land, and further back from the Mo hawk, the land rises into hiUs of primary formation ; these are not quite as productive as the alluvial and table lands, yet there is much good second quality land. Most of it is underlaid with slate from two to twenty feet below the sur face. The slate has a slight dip to the south, and this will be found trae of all the rock and mineral formations in the county. Much time and money have been expended in this town in boring for coal, and in one instance a few individuals penetrated 100 feet, near the Nine MUe Creek, without find ing coal, and for the very best of reasons, — there is none. If the geology of the county had formerly been as well understood as at present, much labor and money might have been saved for more useful purposes.^ Agriculture. — The agriculture of this town is improving. 244 ANNALS OP 0NT3DA COUNTY. [cHAP, Wheat has been almost driven from its limits by the -wheat worm, but within the last two years a few good crops have been raised, and strong hopes are entertained that, when the worm has passed by. wheat growing — to an extent equal to home consumption — may be resumed, AU other crops common to the county are successfuUy cultivated ; much, however, of this success is found -with those farmers who pay the greatest attention to the superior methods of man uring and cultivating their land Within a few years there has been a decided improvement witnessed in the agriculture of Marcy. Schools. — There are no Seminaries or High Schools in the town. The common schools are represented to be quite flourishin?. Indians. — There were no Indians residing in this town when the county was settled. A correspondent informs the author that there was a place about half a mUe east of the Oriskany. upon a beautiful piece of table land, on the north bank of the Mohawk, which was known to the first settlers by the name of the "Indian Castle." As early as 1796 it was mostly covered with second-growth timber, five or sis inches in diameter; and a smaU mound, about eighteen inches high, and from eight to ten feet across the top, is stUl seen upon its site. Near the place of thi; Indian settle ment are from twenty to thirty "hopper holes.' as they were termed by the first settlers, and, according to tradition, they were used to secrete their com on the approach of an enemy. Each hole would contain about ten bushels, and the bottom and sides were carefnllj lined with dry brakes and gra^.s. Several of these were found upon the farm first purchased ty James WUson. Iron hatchets, of a very peculiar shape. XIV.J marcy. 245 ha\c been ploughed up on the same farm, supposed to be of Spanish manufacture. The authoi^'s correspondent is of the opinion that this place and the Oriskany village were, an terior to the Revolution, occupied by a branch of the Mohawk tribe, and that the Oneidas took possession after they had left. This may be correct ; still the author had never pre viously heard of the Mohawks having any villages as higl up tho river. By the last census the town contained 1,769 inhabitants It then contained no grist mill, seven saw mills, one tri} hammer, using $400 in raw materials, producing $ 1,500 ii manufactured articles, two tanneries, using $7,700 in ra> materials, and producing $10,600 in manufactured articles. religious societies. There arc two Baptist Churches in the town, the cost o' whicli was $ 1,050 ; one Congregational CIm-rch, cost $200 fmd. one Methodist CZswrc/t, cost $ 1,320. Of these churche, no statistics have been obtained, with the exception of tht- Berean Baptist Ohurch, and of this they are quite meagre. The Berean Church was formed early in the year 1844 under the pastoral care of Elder Wm. H. Thomas, anc reported that year sixty added by baptism, thirty by expe rience and letter, and seventeen dismissed, excluded, anc deceased, leaving a total of seventy-three. In 1845, IK members were reported. In 1846 and 1847, Elder Myroi H. Negus was pastor, and seventy meinbers reported th- . former, and sixty the latter year. In 1849, Mr. Alfrc - Harris, a licentiate, supplied the pulpit, and but forty-sevei members were reported. The first pastor becanie a " cast away]' and fled to a distant part of the country, where r. 246 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. died in poverty and disgrace. How much of the declension of this church is chargable to his fall, will never be known in time. By a law passed March 30, 1832, the town of Marcy was formed from the town of Deerfield, and was named in honor of William L. Marcy, then Governor of the State, and Secre tary at War during the administration of President Polk. A few months after the formation of the town, Gov. Marcy visited it, and was the guest of C. Baldwin, Esq., who was the first and then Supervisor of the town. XV.] MARSHALL. 247 CHAPTER XV. MARSHALL. I? the author had commenced a few years earlier, he could here have opened a rich mine of historical incidents. In this town was located the tribe known as the Brothertown Indians. It was composed of the remnants of the various tribes of New England and Long Island. They had melted away in their murderous wars -with the pale-skins, and by adopting their vices, imtil, when they here sought a refuge, these remnants were smaU indeed. After they had congre gated at this place, they numbered but about 400. What a fearftU accounting wiU have to be rendered by our New England forefathers for the mighty balance of the onee powerful Naragansets, 3Iohegans, Pequods, Montauks, Na- tieks, and numerous smaUer tribes, who welcomed them to their shores, fed them from their o-wn scanty supplies, and not as the ancient IsraeUtes, when by persecutions and exactions driven from the land of Egypt, with increased numbers, but by " war, pestUenee, and famine," forced them to emigrate, with this Uttle pittance of numbers, to Brother- town, given them by the ever hospitable and generous Oneidas. The territory presented to the Brotherton Indians was mueh more extensive than was ever used or occupied by them, and they very early sold quite a section of it to the Stat-e. The part which they reserved to themselves lay on 248 ANNALS OF .ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. each side and contiguous to the Oriskany Creek. A portion of this reservation was within the present town of Kirkland, but their main settlements were in Marshall, in the vicinity of DeansvUle and Dickville. By the death of the late Thomas Dean, Esq., who for many years resided within the Umits of the Indian settlement, the author has lost the most reliable and valuable source for information respecting these Indians. Asa Dick, Esq.. died a few years since, and a brother of his emigrated but about two years since, who were very intelli gent men of the Naraganset stock. Since the death of Squire Dick, and the removal of his brother, not one of the tribe has been left to teU the story of their emigration to this place, their sufferings, privations, and wrongs, and meagre indeed is the little that can be gleaned of their history. A portion of them settled at this plaee prior to the Revo lutionary Wav, but the year has not been ascertained. Prominent among those who settled thus early, were the names of David Fowler, Elijah Wampy, and John Tuhi, (wrandfather to the one of the same name who was executed in 1816.) A large proportion, however, of those who settled before the war. left their settlement soon after its commence ment, fearing the ravages of the Senecas, Cayugas, and Onondagas, who had espoused the cause of the king, while they in feeling were with the colonists, although professing neutrality. A few — -probably not more than two or three — of the men staid, spending a portion of their tinm at this place, for the purpose of seeing to and cultivating their land to some little extent, while the remainder of their time was spent at Fort Stanwix. Wampy, who has been before no ticed, was of this number. On one occasion, as he was going from the Fort to Brothertown, and had proceeded some two or three miles on his way, a hostile Indian sprang from behind a tree, close to his path, and was about to shoot him XV.J MARSHALL. 249 down with his rifle, when Wampy flew at him, knocked up the muzzle of the gun, so that the ball passed harmlessly over him, and with his knife laid his brother red-skin dead ut his feet. The victor, believing that other foes would soon ))C attracted by the report of the rifle, caught the weapon from its now passive owner, and, bearing the trophy of his prowess, in double .quick time, retraced his way to the Fort. When the great body of them left during the war, potatoes had been planted, and were left growing in the fields, and when they returned at its close, after an absence of some five or six years, they found that the tubers had continued to yield their annual crops, in diminished quantities to be sure, yet a sufficiency at least for planting. After their return, many of them became quite skilful agriculturists, had large and productive fields in the Oris kany valley, and quite a proportion of them managed to live \evy comfortably. But the "pale-faces" were on their trail, and soon had surrounded their settlement ; with one hand presenting them with the Bible, — the Word of Life, — and with the other, that " fire-water," their greatest, direst curse, and which was well known to be death, physical and moral, to the savage. After the fathers who emigrated had mostly " fallen asleep," the tribe went to decay. Intemperance, -with its accompaniment, licentiousness, fast did their work, and the descendants of king Philip, Sassacus, and a host of sachems renowned in the New England wars, debased in body a;nd soul, but greeted the eye of the spectator of their wrongs. On their petition, a little more than twenty years since, the Legislature passed a law permitting them to sell their farms to individuals, with the advice and consent of the Superintendents of the Brothertown Indians; and, in 1831, a portion of them, having sold out, emigrated to Green Bay, where they commenced a settlement, separate from the 250 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Oneida and Stockbridge Indians, who removed to the Bay at about the same time. They continued to sell and emi grate until two years since, when the " last of the Brother- tons," like the " last of the Mohegans," had a second time abandoned to the pale faces, the burial-place of their fathers. The first settlement by the whites of the territory at this time included within the limits of Marshall, was on that part of the Brothertown tract sold to the state. It is believed that David Barton was the first settler : he removed to this place from Connecticut in 1793. He was, however, very soon followed by Warren Williams, who took up the farm now owned by Horace H. Eastman, Esq. Williams soon sold out to Elder Hezekiah Eastman, for Elder Eastman received his deed from the State, dated in 1795, acknowledged before Judge Hugh White, and recorded by Jonas Piatt, then clerk of Herkimer County. Beside those named, Capt. Simon Hubbard and Levi Barker were very early settlers in the town. Col. Lester Barker, ex-sheriff of Oneida County, was the first white child born on the Brothertown tract. Geology. — The geology of Marshall nearly resembles the south-western part of the county. There are extensive quarries of limestone on the higher lands in the town. The best for building purposes, and hardly surpassed in the county, is that on the farm of H. H. Eastman, Esq. There are but very few bowlders and little of the land can be termed stony. The soil is very productive. Few towns in the county equal, and none excel it, in the average quality of the land. The valley of the Oriskany here ranks with its best portions, while much of the hill land, almost, and in some instances quite, rivals it in fertility. On the plank road from Waterville to Paris Hill, a part of the distance of which passes through the south-easterly part of Marshall, the farm- XV.] MARSHALL. 251 ers have displayed much taste in ornamenting the road with rows of maples and other forest trees. Esq. Eastman has on his farm, at least a mile in length, twelve feet apart. In summer these shade trees present a very fine and picturesque appearance. The town is well watered. The west branch of the Oriskany Creek enters it but a short distance below Oriskany Palls, while the east branch enters it in the lower part of Waterville. After each running about four miles, they get into the same valley opposite Dickville, and their proximity is but quite trifling on the plank road south, from DeansviUe to Waterville, forming a junction a little below DeansviUe, and just before it enters the town of Kirkland. Beside there are numerous rills that rise in the hills on either side of the branches, entering them as tributaries. RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. The Congregational Church in Marshall was organized June 14, 1797; this was the first church formed within tho limits of the town. At tJie time of its formation, it was in the " old town of Paris," and early it received the distinctive name of " Hanover Society.'' The church was constituted with fourteen members, seven males and seven females, since which there have been added by profession 234, and by letter 86, making in aU 334. Mrs. David Barton (the first settler) joined this church in the September after it was formed, and Mr. Barton in 1804, and are both yet members. Mrs. Eunice Griffin joined in 1803, and is still a member. In 1801, the Hanover Church and Society erected their first house for public worship, and after having used it as sueh forty years, it was rebuUt in 1841. The church has 252 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. had four pastors. The Rev. John Eastman was ordained about 1809, preached to this people about thirteen years and was dismissed January 8, 1822. Rev. Ralph Robinson shortly after commenced his labors with this Society, was installed pastor May 9, 1827. Rev. Richard M. Davis was installed pastor July 2, 1833, and was dismissed in May, 1835. Rev. Pindar Field commenced his labors with this body in October, 1846, and was installed pastor February 23, 1848 ; he is the present pastor. Previous to the ordina tion of Mr. Eastman, a Mr. Thompson, of Sangerfield, a Mr. Bell, Rev. Publius V. Bogue, and Rev. Lothrop Thompson, preached for different lengths of time. After the dismissal of Mr. Robinson, and previous to the installation of Mr. Davis, Rev. Mr. Bogue again, and Mr. IngersoU about two years, and after the dismissal of Mr. Davis, and before the installation of Mr. Field, Rev. Rufus Pratt about eighteen months, Rov. David J. Weeks two years. Rev. E. Parmely eighteen months. Rev. Mr. Grosvenor, Rev. Seth P. M. Hastings, and Rev. S. W. Raymond, through the summer of 1842, then S. W. Raymond for three and a half years sup plied this people with preaching, with occasional supplies from President North and Rev. Salmon Strong. The pre sent number of members belonging to the church is fifty-five, twelve males and forty-three females. The Baptist Church of Paris, afterwards known as the First Baptist Church in Paris, was organized within the present limits of Marshall, July 6, 1797. It will be per- c-eived that it was but twenty-two days the junior of the Congregational Church just noticed. It was constituted and fellowshipped by a council from the Baptist Churches in Whitestown, Litchfield, Fairfield and Palatine, Peterboro, and 2d Burlington. Composing in part the delegation from XV.] MARSHALL, 253 these churches, we notice the names of Stephen Parsons, Joel Butler, Peter P. Roots, and Ashbel Hosmer, those veteran pioneers of the denomination in Central New York. The church when formed consisted of twenty-seven members, fifteen males and twelve females, probably a larger number than were organized into a church, thus early, in the county. The council convened at the house of David Wood, and this house was their place of meeting for public worship for a number of years. The church received accessions from tima to time, until about one hundred and sixty persons had been members. Elder Hezekiah Eastman commenced preaching to this people as early as 1796, probably earlier. After the church was constituted, he hecame its pastor, and continued his labors with it until 1809, when he asked and received a dismission to the Sangerfield Church. Soon after this he went on a missionary tour into the western part of the State, as is shown bythe foUowing extract from his journal:^ — " September 22, 1809, 1 set out on a missionary tour to the Holland Purchase." After the dismissal of Elder Eastman, John Beebe, a member of the church, commenced preaching to the people,. and on the 26th of October, 1811, the church called him to ordination. A council was called, and met on the 13th of November following, and after an examination and approval of the candidate, proceeded next day to his ordination. Eld. Beebe continued as pastor for a number of years, but his health failing in 1823, Eld. John G. Stearns was called, and assumed the pastoral duties. Eld. Stearns continued with the church about five years. The records of this body close January I^th, 1832. At this time it seems to have lost its visibility. . The anti-masonic excitement had much to do with its dissolution. A part of its members united with the church in Clinton, which had then been -but recently formed. 254 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. Methodist Episcopal. — This denomination had a class in this town as early as 1803, which was supplied with preach ing once in two weeks by the preachers appointed to the Westmoreland Circuit. In 1828, a society was organized preparatory to building a house for public worship, but nothing was accomplished, in consequence of a disagreement as to its site. Nothing further was done as to building a house until 1837, when an effort was made to raise funds for the building of one at DeansviUe, which was so far successful that a respectable house for public worship was erected at that place in 1832, the site of which was presented to the society by the late Thomas Dean, Esq. In 1839, DeansviUe was set off as a station, and has so remained to the present time. The church now numbers about ninety members. The Universalists have a small society, and a house for worship in the locality known as " Forge Hollow." It has preaching one-half the time. In this town was enacted one of those daring feats and escapes, of which the Revolutionary contest was so fruitful., The story of Heinrich Staring's escape from the Indians at Brothertown, has been often told, varying in minutiae, but agreeing in all the important particulars. Mr. Tracy's relation of it in his lectures, is probably the most correct account now within the reach of the author, and haa therefore been followed, with but slight alterations in thia work. As this individual, when Herkimer County was first or ganized, and when it comprehended within its fimits the present county of Oneida, received, and for many jears held the office of first judge, and also his birthplace so near the present eastern line of the county, it seems to warrant in this XV. ] MARSHALL. 255 place, a somewhat extended notice of him. Heinrich Staring was a native of the Mohawk Valley, and was born about eleven miles below the city of Utica, and soon after the set tlement of the German Flats. Little is known of his early history. "At the commencement of the Revolutionary War, we find him a militia officer, and regarded by the royal party as a most important and influential personage in his neighbor hood. He was present at the battle of Oriskany, and from that period held the office of colonel of the Tryon county militia during the remainder of the war. Possessing great shrewdness, strong common sense, and unflinching intrepidity, he enjoyed the unlimited confldence of the German and Dutch settlers on .the Mohawk, and became a proininent object for seizure by the enemy. A great number of anecdotes illus trative of the extraordinary means that were used by the enemy he had to deal with to procure his person or destroy him, might be related. The story was from the lips of the old man several years after the war. The event took place some time late in November, and about the year 1778 or 1779. He had, for some purpose, gone into the woods at some distance from his home, and while there, by chance, came suddenly upon a party of hostile Indians, who, during those years, were frequently prowling about the settlements ou the Mohawk, and occasionally making murderous incur sions among the inhabitants. Before he became fully aware of their presence he had got so completely in their power that flight or resistance were out of the queistion. He was seized with evBry demonstration of hellish delight, and rapidly hur ried away in a contrary direction from his home and south ward of the Mohawk, until his captors supposed themselves out of the reach of pursuit, when they directed their march westward, and at night reached a smaU uninhabited wigwam 256 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. at a little more than a quarter of a mile from the right bank of the Oriskany Creek, above Clinton, in what is now called Brothertown. The wigwam consisted of two rooms, separated from each other by a partition of logs. Into the larger of these there opened an outside door which furnished the only entrance to the house. Another door communicated from the larger to the smaller room. The latter had one window, a small square hole of less than a foot high by about two feet wide, placed nearly six feet above the floor. The whole structure was of logs, substantially built. The Indians ex amined the smaller room, and concluded that by securely fastening their prisoner hand and foot, they could safely keep him there until morning. They, therefore, 'bound his hands behind him with withes, and then fastened his ancles together in the same manner, and laid him thus bound in the small room, while they built a fire in the larger one, and commenced a consultation concerning the disposition of him. Staring, though unable to speak the Indian language, was sufficiently acquainted with it to understand their delibera tions, and he lay listening intently to their conversation. The whole party were unanimous in the decision that he must be put to death, but the manner of doing this in the way best calculated to make the white warrior cry like a cowardly squaw, was a question of high importance, and one which it required a good deal of deliberation to settle satis factorily to all his captors. At length, however, it was agreed that he should be burned alive on the following morn ing, and preparations were accordingly made for the diabol ical sports of a savage auto da fe. During the deliberation, the horrible fate that awaited him suggested to Colonel Staring the question of the possibility of an escape. As he lay on the ground in the wigwam, he could see the window I have spoken of, and he determined to make an effort to XV.J MARSHALL. 257 release himself from the withes which bound him, and en deavor to effect a passage through it without alarming his savage keepers. Before they had sunk to rest, he had so far succeeded as to release one of his hands from its fasten ings, sufficiently to enable him to slip his wrist from it. On finding that he could do this, he feigned sleep; and when the Indians came in to examine and see if all was safe,' they re tired, exulting with a fiend-like sneer, that their victim was sleeping his last sleep. They then all laid down on the ground in the larger room, to go to sleep. Staring waited until all had for a long time become quiet, when, slipping his hand from the withes, he was enabled silently to release his ancles, and by climbing up the side of the house by the aid of the logs, to escape from the window without creating an alarm. In the attempt, and while releasing his ancles from the withes, he had necessarily taken off his shoes, and had forgotten to secure them with him. Hewa^s now outside of the wigwam, barefoot, at a distance of five and twenty iniles from his home, without a guide or a path, hungry, and in a frosty night in November, and with a band of enemies seeking his heart's blood, lying ready to spririg upon him. But he was once more free from their clench, and this one thought was nerve, and strength, and food, — was all he needed to call into action - his every powef. He stole with cautious silence from the wigwam, directing his course towards the creek, and increasing his gait as he left his cap tors, and got beyond the danger of alarming thein. He had got about half way to the creek, and had ¦ begun to flatter himself that his whole escape was 'accomplished, when he heard a shout from the wigwam, and immediately the bark of the Indian dogs in pursuit. He then plunged on at tho top of his speed, and knowing that, while- on the' land, the dogs would follow on his- track, in order to' baffle their pur- 17 258 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHA?. suit, as soon as he reached the creek, ,he jumped , in, and ran down stream in the channel. For some time he heard the shouts of his late masters, :and the baying of their hounds in the pursuit ; and now that he had reached the water, where their dogs could not, track him, he laughed out-right as he ran, in thinking of the disappointment they would feel when they arrived at the bank. The fear, of the faggot, and all its accompanying tortures, furnished a stimulus to every muscle, and he urged on his fiight until he heard no more of his enemies, and became satisfied that they had given up their pursuit. He deemed it prudent, however, to continue his course in the bed of the creek, until he should reach a path which led from Oneida to Old Fort Schuyler, — a mud fort. built on the present site of Utica. during the French war, and which was situated between Main street and the banks of the River, a little eastward of Second, street. The path crossed the Oriskany ab»ut half a mile westward of where the vUlage of Clinton now stands. He then took this path and pursued his course. I have mentioned ,that, in his haste to escape, he forgot his shoes. He had on a pair of wool stockings, but in running on the gravel in the creek, they soon became worn out, and the sharp pebbles cut his feet. In this difficulty, he bethought him of a substitute for shoes, in the coat he wore, which, fortunately, was made of a thick heavy serge. He cut off the sleeves of this at his elbows, and drew them upon his feet, and thus protected them from injury. But he used to say he soon found this was robbing Peter to pay Paul, for in the severity pf the night, his arms became chilled, and almost frozen. He reached the landing at Fort Schuyler just in the gray dawn of the morning, and cautiously reconnoitering, in order to ascertain whether any one was in the fort, which was frequently used as a camp ground, he satisfied himself that no one was in the neighbor- XV.J MARSHALL. 259 hood. In doing this, he fortunately discovered a canoe which had floated down the stream, and lodged in the wil lows which grew on the edge of the bank. He instantly took possession of it, and by a vigorous use of the paddles, with the aid of the current, succeeded in reaching his home with his Uttle bark in the middle of the forenoon." "As has been noticed, in organizing the Court of Common Pleas for Herkimer County, Colonel Staring was appointed its first Judge. It is not to be supposed, or pretended, that any pecuUar qualifications or fitness for the office recom mended him for the appointment. His honest and strong, but uncultivated mind, had never been schooled to threading the mazes of legal science ; and indeed, he had enjoyed few even of the most common advantages of education. But he possessed the confidence of his feUow-citizens for his sterling integrity, strong common sense, and tried and approved patriotism ; qualifications which were regarded by the vene rable George CUnton, then Governor of the State, as sufficient to warrant his appointment to the office. Indeed, at that period in the history of the State, few Courts of Common Pleas could be found with a lawyer on its list of judges ; and it is no disparagement to these courts at that time, to assert, that the court in which Judge Staring presided was in no respect inferior to its sister tribunals. Many anec dotes iUustrative of his simplicity of character, and lack of education, are related." In the early settlement of the county, the story of Judge Staring's " Yanfcee Pass" was as famUiar with the people as "household words." By virtue of his office, whieh carried with it the powers of a magistrate, it became his duty to see that the laws were properly enforced and obeyed. Then, as now, our statutes forbid " all unnecessary labor and travelUng on the first day 260 ANNALS OF OKEIDA COUXTY. [cHAP. of the week, commonly caUed Sunday." Soon after his appointment as first dignitary of the bench, a shrewd Yan kee, who had been visiting that unlocated and fast-receding region, the "far west," that then hardly extended as far towards the setting stm as Onondaga HoUow and Salt Point, was passing, on horseback, the residence of the Judge, on his his way -do-wn east." on the first day of the week. Judge Staring, who, like many of the good Dutch settlers in the Mohawk VaUey, was quite stric-t in his observance of the day, at once went to the highway, and arrested the law- breaking traveUer. At first the traveUer stoutly demurred, stating that his business was urgent, and required haste. The Judge was, however, immovable, and the traveUer, mak ing a -virtue of necessity, soon proposed to pay his fine of six - York shillings." This was accepted by the law enforcer. •'Now,'' says the traveUer, "I suppose I can proceed?" to which he received an affirmative an.swer. The traveUer then said to the Judge, that as he had satisfied the broken law. by paying his fine, he -wished a pass, that he might mot be again molested in his journey. The judge declared his willingness to give the desired paper, but stated his inabUity to -write it, and further, if the traveUer would do it. he would affix his signature. To this the Yankee a.=,sented. and pro ceeded to pen the wished-for document, to which the Judge signed his name, and forthwith the traveUer proceeded on his way. A few months afterwards. Judge Staring went tv Kane's store, at Canajoharie, and wa.s there presented for payment -with an order for twenty-five dollars. At fir.st he itrenuo-o-sly denied having given s-ic-'ii an order, but having more partic-nlarlj examined the signature, and finding it genuine, he revolved the matter over in his mind, and at last caught -n inkling of the puss at the bottom of the meal-tub. He asked for a description of the per.scn who XV.J MARSHALL. . 261 presented the order, when the Yankee and his beast were most accurately described. " Oh ! now I know it all," says the Judge, " it is nothing but that ' Yankee Pass.'" As the signature was genuine, and as no proof could be made of the fraud, the draft had to be duly honored ; but for the remain der of his official term it is presumed the Judge never gave another " Yankee Pass." The following is related by Mr. Tracy: — "One day, an unfortunate debtor applied to the Judge to obtain the relief afforded by the statute, and having prepared and duly exe cuted his assignment, waited the signature of the Judge to perfect his discharge. 'Well,' said he, 'have you got all things ready?' 'Yes,' replied the debtor, 'every thing is prepared ; all you have to do is to sign my discharge.' 'Very well,' said the Judge, 'have you paid all your debts?' ' Oh ! no,' said the debtor, ' if I had I should not apply for the benefit of the statute.' 'But,' replied the Judge, 'I can't sign the paper till you have paid all your debts : you must pay your debts first.' Upon this point he was inexorable, and the applicant was forced to seek elsewhere the relief desired." Villages. — DeansviUe isthe most important point inthe town of MarshaU. It is located on the Chenango Canal, in the north-easterly part of the town. The plank roads leading from Waterville and from Madison, to Utica, unite here. This place has the Methodist Church, DeansviUe Post Office, two store houses, two mercantile houses, two taverns, a grocery and provision store, with a number of mechanic shops, etc., and but a few rods easterly is the grist mill erected by Asa Dick, Esq., on the west branch of the Oriskany Creek. Here was the mansion of the late Thomas 262 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Dean, Esq., so long and favorably known as the agent of the Brothertown Indians. Diclcville. — Since the construction of the Chenango Canal, and the buUding up of DeansviUe, this place has nearly lost the characteristics of a -vUlage. It received it« name from Asa Dick, Esq., before-mentioned, who lived and died here. He was a man of enterprise, Uved in good style, had a good two story dweUing, painted white ; but in the latter part of his life, he extended his business beyond his means, and after his death his estate was found to be insolvent. Formerly the plaee had its merchant and mechanies. but is at this time little more than a neighborhood of farmers, located on very choice land, with its two saw mUls on the east branch of the Oriskany. Forge Hollow. — As its name indicates, its inhabitants are engaged in the manufacture of iron. The first forge was erected here in 1801, by Daniel Hanchet, John Winslow. Thomas Winslow, and Ward White. It manufactured iron from ore. It has now three smaUer establishments of the kind, which work only scrap iron. BUly Titus has for quite a number of years been engaged in furnace castings, formerly quite extensively, but at this time the infirmities of age have compeUed him to materiaUy abridge his business. The place has the Universalist Church, a merchant, and a number of mechanies. It is located on the east branch of the Oriskany. the hUls on each side of its narrow vaUey rising abruptly, and to a considerable height. The WatervUle plank road passes through DickvUle and Forge HoUow. A man by the name of Putnam was probably the earliest settler in this place ; Elder Tremain and Timothy Burr were also among the early settlers. XV.] MARSHALL, 263 ili"a/-«^«// (former IjT- called Hanover). — This place is located ou tbe plank road leading from WatervUle to Paris Hill, New -Hartford, and Utica- It has the Congregational Church, the Marshall -Post Office, a store, public house, various me chanics' shops, and a small collection of dwelling houses. The farras in this vicinity are of the first quality, there being no better -upland in the coun^. A protracted effort has been made to procure from his family the facts, dates, and incidents, for a biography of the late Thomas Dean, Esq., but without success. addEn-Da. After the copy of the foregoing notices of Marshall was in the hands of the printer,' and a part of itin type, the author accidentally discovered, at the house of George W. Bass, in that town, the " Book of Brotliertown Records," from 1796 to 1843. In penmanship, and in neat, orderly arrangement,, it excels many of the books of town records in the county, On the first page each Town Clerk has entered his name in the order in which they were elected. To revive the recollection of the names of some of the more prominent members of this amalgamated tribe of Indians, the list is inscribed : — Elijah Wampy, David Fowler, jun,, WUliam Coyhis, Christopher Schee&uck, Thomas Grosley, Jacob -Dick, V/'m- Dick, jun., James Fowler,, jun., Daniel Dick, David Toucee, B. Fowler, James Kiness, Simon Hart, James Wiggins, Alexander Fowler, , ' These were all the clqrks from 1795 to -1843, several of them holding the office for a number of.yearfe. 264 ANNALS OF ONEIbA COUNTY. [CHAP. James Kiness, who served longer than any other individ ual, wrote a most beautiful engrossing hand, which few clerks of the present day can equal, and which still fewer can excel. His oi'thography is very correct, indeed the whole book in this respect fully comes up to the generality of town records. There is a paper copied into said book, dated September 26th, 1795, signed by Samuel Jones, Ezra L'Hommedieu and Zina Hitchcock, " Commissioners appointed by an Act of the Leg islature ofthe State of New York, 'An act relative to lands in Brothertown,' have appropriated to the following Indians, the following lots of land, as the same have been laid out and delineated upon the map ofthe land, set off by the said Com missioners, for the use of the Indians." Then follow the names of forty-five persons, several of whom were widows, and the number of the lot or lots assign ed to each. In this list is found the name of George Peters, who was afterwards executed for the murder of his wife Eunice. To him and his family was assigned two lots, which lay a little cast of McMlUen's, The wife that he murdered was a daughter of the celebrated Wampy before noticed, June 13th, 1796, William Floyd for himself and in behalf of the other Superintendents, set lots to eight families, July 3, 1797. Thomas Eddy, Superintendent, assigned lands to eight families ; by the proceedings it appears that a part of the lots assigned to these families, had been previous ly assigned to others, and by theni forfeited, but does not state in what the forfeiture consisted. At a meeting of the Superintendents of the Brothertown Indians, held in the school house in said town, January 8th. 1812, Present — Uri Doolittle and Asahel Curtis, Super intendents, and William Hotchkiss, Attorney, At this nieeting lands were assigned to ten persons and families, A part of these lands had been previously assigned and fprfeited, XV.J Marshall: ¦ 265 and it is stated that' the forfeiture was worked by the persons dying without issue. After these assignments the records show that individuals selected such unoccupied or forfeited lot as they chose; then the Peacemakers gave a certificate to the superintendents of such choice, which seems to have given a right to possession. By an act ofthe Legislature the people of Brothertown were to meet on the 'first' Tuesday in April of each year, to elect their town officers. At these meetings the Peacema kers presided, and were also authorized- to notify special meetings." The elective officers were a Clerk, two Overseers of the Poor, two Marshals, three Fence Viewers, a Pound Master, and Overseers of Highways, The office of Peace maker, an.swering in most respects to that of a Justice of the Peace, and which entitled the possessor to' the affixture of Esquire to his name, was not elective, but seems to have been appointed by the Governor and Senate, They had Tithing-men, but none of the minutes of the town meetings show that they were elected. Probably they brought from New England the idea of such an officer, but as the office was not known to the laws of New York, they selected such a person to do the duties, only as an individual. The book contains many by-laws, quite a portion of which are for the suppression of vice and immorality. The by-law for the observance of the first day of the week, commonly called Sunday, is quite similar to the statute of this State, in the characteristics of the offence and the amount of the fine, seventy-five cents, but with this difference " and in case no property can be found to answer said fine, and it is not answered in thirty days, then every such offender shall by a warrant under the hand and seal of' any one of the Peace makers of said town, be set publicly in the stocks, for the space of two hours, then, and in every such case, the cost for 266 AXNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP.. executing said precepts, shaU be paid the Marshal out of the treasury of said town." By another section the like punishment was to be inflicted for card playing and frolicking on Sunday, and on Saturday or Sunday evenings. In another section a fine of thirty-seven and a half cent.s i; imposed for any one offence in profimely cursing or swear ing, and in default of paying the same in thirty days, or giv ing such security as shaU be accepted by the Peacemakers, then to be set pubUcly in the stocks for one hour, and for any number of offences, whereof any sueh offender may be convicted at the same time, two hours. Drunkenness is pun ished by the same penalties and pains as cursing and swear ing. Extra penalties are inflicted for intoxication at town meetings. There is a section for the punishment of accesso ries to stealing. Arbitration is provided for as a court of reference by a rule from the Peacemakers. There are a number Of sec tions defining the duties of town officers, and one to prevent females from attending town meetings. In common with most Indian nations, they deprecated any mixture with the African race, the foUowing is the forty- fourth by-law: — '-'-J!segro Mixture Wcymen. As they are not proprietors of the tract of land called Brothertown, notwith standing their marrying to any of the inhabitants of said town. Therefore, they henceforth shall have no right or title to any of the annuity of the said Brothertown Indians." In all there are sLsty-seven -sections of the by-laws, and this notice of them will be concluded by transcribing that in rela tion to "Fugitive .Slaves." -' If any of the inhabitants of Brotherto-wn. at any time hereafter shaU indalge, harbor or conceal any child or chU dren, servants or apprentices, that has nm away or absconded XV.J MARSHALL. 267 from his, her or their master, guardian or parent, and be thereof convicted, shall forfeit and pay to the person ag grieved, the sum of one dollar for every twenty-four hours thus indulging, harboring or concealing any child, apprentice or servant, without the consent of the master, guardian or parent as aforesaid, fo be recovered with cost of suit in any court of the Peacemakers of Brothertown." By the records it appears that the following named persons held the office of Superintendent of the Brothertown In dians: — Samuel Jones, Ezra L'Hommedieu, Zina Hitchcock, WiUiam Floyd, Thomas Eddy, Bill Smith, Thomas Hart, Henry McNiel, Uri Doolittle, Asahel Curtis, Joseph Stebbins, William Root, Nathan Davis, Austin Mygatt, Samuel L. Hubbard, Elijah Wilson, Samuel Comstock. The Peacemakers were appointed from among the Indians, It would seem that they were usually made from a few of the more prominent and educated families, the senior and junior members of which sometimes held the appointment at the same time. Prominent among the Peacemakers from 1796 to 1843, were the Fowlers, Johnsons, Scheesucks, Tuhls, and the Dicks. In 1809, the Brothertowns sent John Tuhi, sen., John Scheesuck, sen., Jacob Fowler and Henry Cuchip, delegates to treat with the western Indians. Their proceedings were ordered to be recorded. Speech of the said delegates, July 3, 1809, to the Dela wares, and the rest of the Wawponohkies, as follows : " Brotliers : — We sent our salutation to you last year, with a promise that we would pay you a visit, we are very glad that the Good Spirit has enabled us to sit with you at this council-fire to-day. 268 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. " Brothers : — Our ancestors and your forefathers were in friendship with each other, but the covenant which they have made with your forefathers has been forgotten by us. Nev ertheless, when we heard you were in trouble, we were sorry, and when you were promoting peace among yourselves and your neighbors, we rejoiced. " Brothers : — Our forefathers have had the same fate your ancestors have met with, they have had a long war with the white people. Our people were then numerous, but after many years of storm or war, they made peace, then they found their numbers much lessened, and the white people possessed of their native country, as they have done to your forefathers, and for that reason we have had to move from place to place, as you have also done, "Brothers: — Although we live a great distance from you, and in among the white people, ever since we were in being, still we feel our minds drawn towards people of our own color, 'Brothers: — We now take hold of your hand, to renew that friendship which subsisted between our ancestors and yours, whicli has been forgotten for a great length of time, this friendship is extended to the whole of the confederacy, on our part we shall teach our children how to maintain this friendship, that it may last to the latest of our generations. "Brothers: — We take your council-fire to be the front door at which we should enter at first, and here we put down our talk and request you to communicate the same to the whole of the confederacy. [One belt of wampum delivered.] "Brothers: — As you have a sad experience for many years past, you understand well what poverty is, therefore, we now lay our case before you, as we have not land enough XV.] MARSHALL. 269 to contain all our people in the east, we should feel happy if you would consider us: May the Great Good Spirit enable us to keep this friendship always bright." [Delivered a white belt of wampum, with three black streaks ou it, containing ten rows of wampum.] Answer to the above : — " 'WniTE KivER, July 3, 1809. "At a General Council held by the Wawponohkies (to wit): — Delawares, Mohiconick, Monssy, Wescoopsey, and Nanticoke Nations, at which time Working Pomseon, a prin cipal chief of the Delaware Nation, delivered a speech to the deputies of the four towns which stand on the banks of the Grand River and River De Trench, also to the Mohekons, and the remnant of the seven tribes of Indians who reside at Brothertown, in the State of New York, as follows: — " G-rand-children, Brothers, and Friends: — I am happy to see you. I salute you all. It is a happy thing that we are met together so many of us, the remnant of the Wawpo nohkies, to deliberate upon the welfare of our respective tribes. " Grand-children : — While we were sitting by the side of this river, in a dismal situation, about t-welve months ago, our grand-children, the chiefs and head warriors of the Miamies, arrived and sat where you now sit, and we were sitting where we now are, our business with them was to settle the difficulties which did arise on account of this land, "Grand-children; — With great satisfaction I now men tion to you that last fall the Miamies and ourselves have removed all cause of uneasiness, and we have had a confirma tion by the President of the United States, whereby we are assured we may live on these lands without molestatioq. 270 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, fCHAP, ¦' Grand-children, Brothers, and Friends: — Be it known to you that you have the same privilege as we h'ave to this land, vre can not point out a particular spot for you to live on, but you may take your own choice wherever you should be suited on undivided land along this river, there you may build }'our fire-place, "Grand-children, Brothers, and Friends : — All our chiefs, liead warriors, and young men send their salutations to your chiefs, heroes, and young men : Be it known then that our union is full and complete, and established to-day ; therefore, let your eyes be fixed on this place, that yonr minds may not be fluctuating as heretofore, but easy and settled. This speech is to you all, as we have become one people." [Diiferent strings of wampum delivered. Two strings of white wampum to the Brothertown people. ] It will be perceived that the Brothertown Indians are spoken of as remnants of seven tribes : In other parts of their records they term themselves emigrants from the seven tribes, but no where give the names of all of them. No doubt but what there were seven principal tribes from which they were derived, but it is a fact well known to a person acquainted with the history of the New England Indians that a tribe was frequently divided into vUlages, bearing sep arate names, still members of the same tribe or stock. There was another book of records, containing the minutes of the courts held by the Peacemakers. Some time in the year 1850, the tribe now at Green Bay sent by a messenger for both books, but for some reason the messenger did not obtain the book containing their town records, but did that containing their judicial, proceedings, which he took, to Green Bay. X\-,J MARSHALL. 271 A few of the Brothertown Indians obtained marble slabs, and placed them at the graves of their friends. Two only of their inscriptions have been obtained. ".John Tuhi, Esq., Died December 14, 1811, Aged 65 years." This monument is now broken down, and is in three pieces, -' Esther PonauiNAL, A Member of the Mohegan Tribe of Indians. A Practical and Exeraplary Christian. Aged 96 years." 272 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [CIIAP. CHAPTER XVI, NEW HARTFORD, This town embraces territory which was among the early settled sections of the county. Although the village of New Hartford received its name at an early period, yet until 1827 the present territory of the town was included in Whitestown, The settlement of this town was commenced by Colonel (afterwards Judge) Jedediah Sanger, who arrived at the site of the village, and commenced making improvements, in March, 1788. He bought, 1,000 acres of land lying upon, and about equally divided by, the Sauquoit Creek, and which includes the whole of the present village. He con tracted to pay fifty cents per acre, and within the first year of his residence he sold one half of his purchase, including all on the east side of the creek, to Joseph Higbee, for one dollar per acre, thus clearing one half of his purchase, in cluding the site of most of the village. Higbee's half of the entire tract was found, upon a re-survey, to contain six hundred acres. Under the auspices of its enterprising founder. New Hartford had a rapid growth, and the evidences of the energy of its master-spirit were every where witnessed, and a larg? clearing made in the course of the first season. In March, 1789, Col. Sanger removed his family to Now Hart ford, and in that year he erected a saw mUl, and in the XVl] ne.-w Hartford. 273 'following year a grist mill. In the first three years of its settlement, this town contained a band of pioneer settlers, who compared favorably with those of any section of the county. Those who settled west of the village, and in the vicinity of the present plank road, were Ashbel Beach, Amos Ives, Solomon Blodget, Salmon Butler, Joel Blair (the three last named at Middle -Settlement), Agift Hill (on the farm for many years owned by Oliver Sandford, Esq.), a Mr. Wyman (on the farm now owned by Linus Parsons), and Stephen -Bushnell (who settled upon the farm now occupied by his son of the same name), and Oliver Collins and Joseph Jen nings (upon the road from Middle Settlement to Whites boro). Those who settled east of New Hartford village, were Joseph Higbee, Nathan Seward, and John French ; and south of the village, three families of Kelloggs, two of Risleys, two of Olnisteads, and Messrs. Seymour, Butler, Hurlburt, Kilborn, and Montague. In the early settlement of Chautauque County, a branch of the Risley family emi- -grated thither, and a memberof the family — Hon. Elijah Risley — has been Sheriff of the county, and a Representa tive in Congress. The village and territory now embraced within the town of New Hartford, for a considerable number of years made a healthy and rapid progress in population and wealth. The construction of the Seneca turnpike road, in 1800, gave the village great advantages, and its business soon out stripped that 'of many of its cotemporaries. For the loca tion of the road through this place, the town was indebted to the same master-spirit. Located as the village was, ont of ' the direct route, yet Judge Sanger, by taking a large amount of stock, exerting his potent influence, and putting in full exercise his industry and perseverance, when a valuable 18 274 ANNALS OF ONEIDA .COUNTY. [CHAP. object was to be attained, could scarcely fail, and success crowned his efforts. The immense water power of the creek was then just being developed, and from that time to the- present, its use in propelling machinery has rapidly in creased. For a considerable portion of the time after the construc tion of the turnpike, and before the completion of the middle section of the Erie Canal, a much larger amount of business was done in New Hartford village than in Utica ; and to its extensive water power — the lack of which ha,=i. ever been severely felt in the latter place — was this extent of business attributable. Even her merchants, at the head of whom stood the heavy &fm of Wilbor & Stanton, at one time traded more extensively than those of its neighbor on the Mohawk. But the construction of the Erie Canal dried up many of the sources of the prosperity of New Hartford, in common with other villages situated upon the turnpike. The carrying business for the mighty west at onee left the Great Western turnpikes for the canal, and Utica soon grew to be a city, and the New Hartford merchants were obliged to yield the palm. '!Phe canal did not, however, cut off one most important souree of prosperity, for the Sauquoit continued to flow oai, and with this advantage New Hartford must ever continue a village of eonsiderable business. The village contains at this time four dry goods stores^ one druggist and one grocery, two tin shops, one cabinet and one -paint shop, one blacksmith and wheelwright, and two s'noe shops, two taverns, two large and three small cotton factories, one grist and one saw mill, and a tannery, at which more than $30,000 worth of leather is manufactured an nually. Tho village also contains five houses for public ' worship, viz. : — one each for the Presbyterians, Episcopal ians, Methodists, Friends, and Universalists ; and also five XVI.J NEW HARTFORD. 275 ministers of the Gospel, four physicians, no lawyer, and about 1,000 inhabitants. The first chUd born in New Hartford, was the late Dr Uriel H. KeUogg. He died some four or five years since. RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. The oldest reUgious society in New Hartford, is- the Presbytet-ian Church, which was organized, with- thirteen members, August 27, 1791, by the Rev. Jonathan Edwards, D. D., of New Haven, Conn. It was ©rgani^d in the same month, and by the same clergyman, as was- the- Congrega tional Church in Clinton. This was also formed as a Con gregational Church, and so. remained until 1802, but since which its discipline has been in strict, accordance with the standards of the Presbyterian Church* Ss first pastor was Dan Bradley, who was ordained in February, 1792, and was dismissed in December, 1794. On the 6th of September foUowing, Mr. Bradley r^noved to MareeUus, Onondaga County, and it appears that he- did not again preach the Gospel, but entered on the- business of farming, and in after life became one of the most skUful and scientific' agricultur ists of Onondaga County. He was appointed a County Judge in 1801, and Firsfe^ Judge in 1808, and'was appointed President of the first Onondaga County Agricultural Society in 1819. He died at las residence, at Mareellus, September- 19, 1838, aged 71 years. Ms -wrote much for the different agricultural periodicals of his day. The next pastor was tiie Rev. Jbshna Johnson, who was installed October 26, 1795. It is said that the young people, to do due honor to lie occasion) held in the evening an " Ordination Ball]' but some persons li-ring at the present 276 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. day entertain doubts as to the correctness of this statement. The balance of testimony is, however, in favor of the asser tion that a "ball" was actually got up for the occasion. Loth as the writer is to believe that so solemn an occasion should have been desecrated by the mirth and levity usually found in the ball room, still he finds the " Ordittation Ball" noticed by two respectable authors,* who have published histories of the times, and it is believed neither would haye so done had not the evidence been to him entirely satisfactory. Another circumstance in relation to the ordination of Mr, Johnson, is deemed of sufficient importance to be preserved in the history of the times. At a day some time previous to his ordination, a council was called to examine him, and, if found worthy and competent, to officiate in the ordination ceremonies, and so confident were the church and society in the fitness of their candidate, that public notice was given that the ordination would take place on the day succeeding the sitting of the council. The council convened and en tered upon their duties, and on the next day a large con course assembled to witness the ceremonies. After waiting some time, the chairman of the council came in, and informed the people that the council had found the candidate not suf ficiently orthodox to admit of his ordination, but did not state the points upon which he was considered heterodox. Mr. Johnson was then requested, by one of the leading mem bers of the society, to state why the council refused his ordination, and he complied with the request. The senti ment to which he could not give his assent, was one that had caused much agitation in the religious world at the time. It was this: — "That before saving grace could be applied to the conversion of the soul, it must feel an entire willingness to be damned," The assembly dispersed, and a council was -* Tracy's Lectures, and Clark's History of Onondaga. XVL] new HARTFORD. 277 called from New England, which took a different view of the question, and Mr. Johnson w-as ordained and installed on the day above mentioned. Mr. Johnson preached to this people five years, and was dismissed December 15, 1800. Rev. Samuel F. Snowden was installed in Slay, 1807, and was dismissed in August, 1813. The Rev. Noah Coe was installed pastor in June, 1814, and continued his pastoral labors for more than twenty years, and was dismissed in February, 1835. He was highly respected and beloved by his people. The Rev. Moses C. Searle was installed July 8, 1835, and was dismissed in June, 1845. The present pastor. Rev. E. H. Payson, was instaUed October 14, 1845. There are now over 200 com municants in the church. This church and society erected the first house for public worship in the county, and indeed in the State west of Her kimer. It was erected in 1793, although not completed, nor the steeple erected, until 1796. Great credit should cer tainly be awarded the architect, for although remodelled and repaired, the house is stUl occupied, and the steeple yet stands, and it yet is in appearance a very respectable house of public worship, venerable for its age, it having outlived many of its juniors, and seniors it had none, in the county. In this house was held the first County Court held within the limits of Oneida County. Judge Sanger gave the lot on which it was erected, and also gave a lot in Sangerfield for the benefit of the church. The Episcopal Church at this place is styled, — " St. Stephen's Church, New Hartford," Rector, Rev. Stephen H. Battin. Belonging to this society are about forty-five families, comprising nearly 200 individuals, and about sixty communicants. It has a Sunday school, with five teachers, 278 annals OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. and about forty pupils ; and it has a neat brick church edifice, with a tower and bell, erected in 1825, Judge San ger gave the lot upon which it stands, and also by his will gave an annuity of $250 to aid in the support of a clergy man. There is an Episcopal MetJiodist Society in this town which have a small, yet very neat house of worship in New Hartford village. / The Friends have a small society in the town, with a sniall house for worship in the south part of the ' village. Their house, like all those of the denomination, has its two front doors, where the males and females enter separately. The members here, as every where, are characterized for their industry, temperance, simplicity, neatness, and thrift. The Universalist Society in this town is the parent stock of the denomination in Central New York, and the third in the State. The two older societies were one in the city of New York, gathered by the Rev. Edward Mitchell in 1797, and the other in Hartwick, Otsego County, gathered in 1803. The doctrine was introduced into this place by the Rev. Nathaniel Stacy, in 1805, and in December of that year was formed "The Universalist Society of Wlutestown." For many years this was the principal seat of the denomi nation in a large extent of country, and its influence was wide-spread. Judge White, the pioneer of Whitestown, was one of its prominent members. In 1815 this society built a small but comfortable church, a little below New Hartford village, on the road to Utica, which is still standing, and occupied as a house of worship by those who have followed in the faith of their fathers, — the doctrine of universal salvation. ~v'l] NE'W HAJITPOED. 279 There was also for a few years a smaU Baptim CJiaf.k in the town, orgamBed as a branch of the church at Whitesboro, but which was dissolved in 1844. In 1S40 this body re ported thirty-one members, and James Reed a licentiate, as -heir preacher; in 1S41 it. instead of remaining a branch, organized as a chureh; and in 1S43 reported bnt twenty- four members, and Elder 0. Tuttle as pastor. Jedediah Sangee.. — This individual, whose name is -o prominent in the history of the first settlement of the tovrrs of New Hartford and Sangerfield, was born in Slierburne, 3Iiddlesex County, Massachusetts, on the 29th of February, i 75 1. consequently he had a birth-day but once in four years. His parents were Richard and Deborah Sanger, vrho had Ten chUdren. Jedediah being the ninth. He reeeived but the common education of boys at that time, worked upon a farm, ^nd subsequently kept a smaU store. In May, 17 71, he was married to Sarah Rider, by whom he had four children. none of whora survived him except a daughter, now the -,vidow Eames, who resides a short distance south of New Hartford -vUlage. In 1782 he removed to Jeffries, Cheshire i'ounty. New Hampshire, where he purchased a large farm. whieh he carried on, keeping a tavern, and also a smaU store in Lis tavern and dwelUng. Hewas successful for two years. when, in 1784. his store and dwelUng. with their entire con tents, were consumed by fire. The time of the fire seeniel ro be peculiarly unpropitious, for two heavy loads of groceries had arrived at the close of the preceding day, and which had l>een unloaded just in time to be destroyed. The lo.-,= left 3Ir. Sanger bankrupt, but his was not the courage to quail 280 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. under misfortune, He was- but thirty-three years of age, with a perseverance which could overcome every thing but impossibilities. Soon after his loss, the account of the far- famed "Whitestown Country" reached him, and he deter mined to emigrate thither as soon as he could arrange his business to do so. His arrangements having been completed, he started upon his journey for that then almost unknown country, and commenced the settlement of New Hartford in March, 1788. The author believes it but justice to his m.emoi-y in this place to disabuse the public as to the report that he clandestinely left Jeff'ries, " between two days and two weeks," to avoid his creditors. From the most reliable information, this was not the casei That he left on Monday morning, and took what, in the parlance of the times, was termed an " early start," some two or three o'cloek, was true ; but that the journey was kept secret, is incorrect. He gave his word to his creditors, that if he was ever able, no man should lose one penny by him, and such was their confidence in his integrity, that no effort was made to molest him, knowing as they did that his bankruptcy had been caused by unavoidable misfortune ; and most sacredly was the promise remembered and kept, for after he had become prosperous, and able to ,d& so, the last farthing of his debts, principal and interest, was paid. As has been stated, he built a saw mill in 1789, and grist mill in 1790. In 1796 he erected the first grist and saw mills on the outlet of the Skaneateles Lake, now in the beautiful village of Skaneateles, Onondaga County. He was one of the acting and leading-partners in the Paris Fur nace, which was erected' in 1800, and went into operation in 1801. In 1805 he was engaged in the manufacture of cot ton. His land agencies for the Coxes and other prpprietors in New York and Philadelphia, have to some extent- beea XVL] new HARTFORD. 2 j 1 noticed. He spent eleven winters in Albany as a member of the Senate and Assembly, to each of these bodies, having been eleeted by the people. He -was the first Supervisor oi Whitestown, and held the office for three successive years. He was appointed First Judge of Oneida County upon its organisation, and held the office imtU 1510, when he resigned. as. by the constitution and laws, his age (60 years) disquali fied him from holding that office. His first wife died September 26, IS 14. His second mar riage was to Sarah B. Kissam, Angust 31, 1S15. who died AprU 23. 1525. His third marriage was to Fanny Dench. October 3. 1527. Sho survived her husband, and died Iti May. 154-2. The subject of this brief memoir died June G. 152;^. The foUowing epitaph is c-opied from his monument ia the village cemetery: — bacrea to t!io memory ot Hc.V. JEDEDIAH SaN-o£-~. wto died Jui-e 6. A. D. l?::r' The founder of New Hartfor-i His charities are -widely exteadel And Ms munifeence has reared And suppor:ed several edidoes Devoted to the service of his Maker. His virtues are ;a-iel:b'y i^- ress'ed upon the Hearts of his Co-ntrymeTi. • Upon the cenotaph in the Episcopal Church, raised by members of his own SunUy. is the foUowing inscription : — 282 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. Sacred to the. memory of -Jedediah Sanoer, Born Feb. 29th, 17-51, Died June 6th, 1829. He, heing dead, yet speaketh. The distiugnisliing traits of Judge Sanger's -character were, great energy and deoision,'elose application to business, coupled with the strictest integrity. In politics, he belonged to the Federal School. He was liberal and public-spirited, and his benefactions to the public seemed to have been re turned to bim tenfold. Gen. Oliver Collins was one of the very early settlers of New Hartford. He was a native of the State of Connec ticut, and served in the Continental Army, in the Line of that State, in the capacity of a sergeant. At the close of the revolutionary contest he, in common with his comrades, was discharged, with a worthless currency in his pocket as pay, yet rich in the consciousness of having well performed his duty to his country, and in that resolution which or dinarily brings success. It is believed he emigrated to this town in 1789. He commenced on the farm now owned by Thomas W. Jloore, a short distance from Middle Settlement, on the road to Whitesboro, where he continued to reside the remainder of his life. At an early period he received a captain's com mission in the militia company organized in Whitestown, from whence he rose in regular military gradation to the XVI.] XEW HARTFORD. 2S3 rank of Brigadier- General. "WhUe holding this commission. the war of 1812 was declared, and in this war also he ren dered valuable services t-o his country, having been, in IS 14, commandant of that most important military post, Saeketts Harbor. Here his position was a most trying. one. The British, in the latter part of this year, had the naval ascem dency on Lake Ontario. The United States' regular army was mostly -with General Brown on the Niagara frontier, and the whole American flotilla on Lake Ontario was moored at this jilace, the enemy's odds against it being too great to justify its taking the offensive upon the Lake. The garrison at Saeketts Harbor consisted of but the 13th regiment, about 500 strong, a battalion of artillery, a few hundreds of mUitia, and the sailors and marines belonging to the fleet. With this incompetent force for the defence of milUons of pubUc property, which the enemy were constantly menacing. Gen. Collins caUed out the militia of Oneida County cn masse. The caU was promptly obeyed, but from misman agement in the commissariat, the provisions furnished were inferior in quality, and unwholesome. To add to this, the season was very rainy, and the streets in Saeketts Harbor and its environs became so bad as to be almost impassable, oven the sidewalks in many instances being ancle deep in mud. Disease soon made its appearance in the militia, and was very mortal. Panic seised them, and they deserted even by half companies, in some instances the commandants of companies running away with portions of their commands. Many, however, had too much patriotism and principle to quit the post -without leave, but, when taken sick, would apply to G^n. ColUns for passports to go out of tbe place imo a more healthy atmosphere- He always treated these applications -with lightness, and a prompt refusal. Great dissatisfaction prevailed. Gen. Collins, no doubt, acted 284 annals of oneida county. [chap. from the best of motives, and if he committed an error in his treatment of these requests of the militia, it was one of the head and not of the heart. His wish was to keep up at least a show of defence, until the garrison could be reinforced by the army under Gen. Brown, then on its march from Buffalo to the Harbor. On Gen. Brown's arrival, he, in general orders, highly complimented Gen. CoUins for the great zeal he had manifested in the public service. On the expiration of Gen. Collins' term of service at Saeketts Harbor, he returned to Oneida County, and ordered a Court Martial for the trial of the deserters from the de tached Militia at the Harbor. The Court Martial convened at the public house kept by Major John Bellinger, in Utica, now known as the "New England House." Some of tho culprits employed able counsel for their defence, and in addressing the Court Martial, the counsel made the remark that, " if the Court presumed to sentence his clients, the good citizens of Utica would never suff'er the sentence to be carried into execution." Notwithstanding, the delinquents were sentenced to have all their back pay stopped, and to be drummed out of camp, as far as Deerfield Corners, with the " Rogue's March," wearing their coats wrong side out. Gen. Collins, who was present, and whose duty it became to see the sentence of the Court Martial carried into execution, and taking the hint from the remarks of the prisoner's coun sel, went to the commandant of a company of regular soldiers, then stationed in Utica, and loaned their music and a sergeant's guard of sixteen men, to assist in the perform ance of his duty. The guard were marched to Bellinger's, and the prisoners brought forward. A considerable number of persons had collected, and there was unmistakable evi dence that there was a disposition to carry out the threat of counsel. Gen. Collins at once ordered the guard to load XVI.] N'EW HARTFORD, 2S5 theiJ^ pieces with baU cartridges, and then turning to the spectators, said, ¦' If you interfere in this business. Gentle men, it is at your peril, for I -wiU cause more buUet holes to be made through your bodies, than there are button-holes in your coats.'' It is almost needless to add that there was no interference, and that the sentence was executed to the letter. At the close of the war he retired to private life, and upon the farm he had redeemed from the forest, he spent the remainder of his days in quiet, having by his industry and economy secured a competence for his declining years. In his poUtics, GexL ColUns never swerved from the Democratic platform. He was four times married. His eldest son died ¦Some years ago, in St. Lawrence Countj-. His second son has beeu one of the most prominent citizens of Lewis County. His relict, and a son and daughter, now reside in Manchester village. Gen. CoUins died August 14, 1S3S, aged 76 years. .MA.XrFACTUrvES. This town, located as it is on both sides of the Sauquoit Creek, a stream which for its size stands unrivaUed for its water power, h,as ever held a high position as a manufactur ing to-wn, and contains a larger number of manufactories than any other town in the county, or probably in the State. Near the north line of the town, are the " New York Upper MiUs."' an estabUshment owned by the same company as the New York Mills, just below, in "Whitestown, and consists of a larsre stone building and a wooden one. The wooden building has ever been known as the " Burr Stone Factory," having reeeived its name from its having been erected and lon? used a= a erist mill, in which the first French burrmUl- 286 AN.NALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. Stones in the county were used in the manufacture of flour. These Upper MUls are entirely employed in the manufac ture of colored goods, pantaloon stuff's and chambrays, of whieh 25,000 yards per week are turned off. It employs 450 operatives, and pays about § 1,000 per week for labor. Next above is what was formerly the " Capron Factory," now the "Utica Cotton Mills.'' It manufactures 28,000 yards per week, employs 156 operatives, 136 looms, and 7,000 spindles, and uses annually 1,150 bales of cotton of 400 pounds each. Above are Howell's two factories, the New Hartford Mill^ Washington Mill, and two factories known as the " HoUister Factories." The location of the HoUistej manufacturing establishment at this place has received the local name of CheckerviUe, from the fact that Mr, HolUstes, at the time of his commencement here, was engaged in business- in the Checkered Drug Store in Utica, StiU above are the large machine shop-- and fotmdry of ' Rogers & Spencer. The location of the fetter has received the romantic name of Willow Vale, from the number of willows growing in the vicinity, on the margin of the creek and dyke. Near the south line of the town are the Eagle Cotton MUls of Chadwick & Sons. In the north-west corner of the town, on the Oriskany, Creek, are Clark's Mills, for the manu^icture of cotton. The buUding is 250 feet long, 70 wide, and four stories high, the wheel house, which projects from the centre of the build ing, being five stories ; the basement is of stone, the remain der of brick. Until the recent erection of the Utica Steam- Cotton MiUs, this was the largest buildingfor manufacturing purposes in the county, Afr this place the town of West moreland lies on the- west side af the creek, and the towns ofT xvlJ new hartpokd. 287 New Hartford, Whitestown, and Kirkland corner on the bridge which here spans the stream ; this leaves the build ings of tho company in all four of the towns ; the main factory, however, is in New Hartford. The factory has been built within the last five years, and is owned by Ralph Clark, of the firm of Ralph Clark & Co., ofthe city of Ncw York, and his brothers Enos and Ammi, B., who reside near the premises, and are engaged in the business of the-factory, a store, and a grist and saw mill just above, in the town of Kirkland. All this business can not fail shortly of building up a large and important village. The building is as yet but half filled with machinery, and it is probable that the whole creek, with the heavy fall attained, will be unequal to the carrying of the machinery the building is capable of conr taining, but thfit a steam engine will have to be called tp its aid. Tltere are four grist and, nine saw;mUls in the town.. ¦iSS ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [.CHAP. CHAI>TER XVII, The first settler of this town was a Capt. Rice, who moved on to what is now known as Paris Hill, about the first of March, 1789, About three weeks after, and on the 20th of March, Benjamin Barnes, Benjamin Barnes, jun,, and John Humaston, arrived and settled in the neighborhood. Three days after the arrival of Mr. Barnes, Stephen Barrett came, and within a few weeks after, three brothers, Aaron, Adams, and Abel Simmons, moved on to the Hill. These were the first settlers of the town of Paris, as it now is ; but it should be borne in mind that Clinton, which was originally included, and whose inhabitants gave it its name, was settled two years earlier by Capt. Foot and his company. The early settlers of Paris Hill were a moral and religious people. In 1791 a small Congregational Church, of five members, was constituted by Dr. Jonathan Edwards, while on the same visit to these frontier settlements in which he officiated in the formation of the first churches at Clinton and New Hartford. All that is obtained of the history of the Paris Hill Church is contained in the inscription from the table stone over the grave of the Rev. Mr, Steele, its first pastor, which is copied entire. It is very much regretted "that more of the earlier and later statistics of this venerable body have not been obtained. Assurances were made that, without faU, they should be forthcoming, but they have never been received. xvu.] PARIS. 2S9 TMs MoniuneDt is erected to the memory of the Bev. Ehphalet Steele, A. M., By his affectionate Church, In testimony of their reject for Ms talents, and gratitude for his faithful labors ra the pastoral office. 'Watchful and diligent, An impartial inquirer after truth, An able defender of the Christian faith. He was bom at Hartford, Conn., Jime i6, 1742, Graduated at Tale CoUege. 1764, Was ordained to the work of the Gospel Ministry at Egremont, Mass., 1770, D'lsmissed from Ms pastoral charge in that place, 1794, Installed at Paris, July 15, 1795, Died Oct. 7, 1S17, aged 75. The Church in Paris, of wMch he was the first Pastor, was formed by the Kev. Jonathan Ed-wards, D. D., in 1791. of 5 members. When Mr, Steele was installed. it consisted of 19, 273 were added during his ministry, and at the time of his decease there were 193 members. Mr. Steele was considered by his cotemporaries ;is very orthodox, and sound in his sentiments. He was a man ot great plainness of speech, and by some it was thought his 10 290 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. manner savored of bluntness. An "anecdote is recollected by the author, and is given as illustrative of the man. About the commencement of the present century, at a meeting of the Oneida Association, a charge was preferred against a young clergyman for preaching unsound doctrine. He had been cited, and was present with the manuscript of the ser mon complained of On the sermon's being read, it was found there wasnothing objectionable in sentiment, but was obscurely worded. Mr. Steele took the occasion to lecture the young man to be more cautious in his language, and ended with this remark : " Aye, young man, you do not know more than half as much as I do, and I do not know one half as much as I think I do." This, it must be confessed, was a very peculiar way of putting himself on a level, as to knowledge, with the young man to whom he was administer ing a reproof In the History, of Berkshire County, speaking of Mr. Steele, is the following: — -"The people generally [of Egre mont] were united in their pastor, until the time of Shay's rebellion. As he was supposed to be favorable to the Gov ernment, the malcontents became his enemies and opposers. On a certain occasion, several armed ruffians violently en tered his house in the night season, and after treating him in a very insolent and abusive manner, carried away his watch, and several articles of clothing." Mrs. McNiel, widow of the late Henry McNiel, Esq., of Paris, and daughter of Mr. Steele, and who now resides in Clinton, although but a small girl at the time, well remembers this transaction. She says that armed sentinels were placed- at all the doors and win dows of the house, to prevent any persons escaping, and giving the alarm. The numbers in and about the house were so great, that resistance was entirely hopeless, and none was made. She had blue silk in the house for a new bonnet, XVI!.] PARIS. 2?1 which was taken by these marauders, they sajing that it would make g'.->od colors for Shays. "WTien the party left. they fired two guns in quick succession, supposed to be sig- ntils. Parties became so violent, that he was dismissed by a couneU. AprU 29, 1794. For more than forty years after the first settlement of Paris HUL, its inhabitants were reckoned as a sober, moral, and industrious people. About the year 1S35, perhaps ear Uer. their fears became awakened, and their suspicions aroused, that a number of young men, residents on the HiU and -vicinity, were extensively engaged and connected in shop lifting, and passing counterfeit money. Great vigUance and prudence had to be exercised in the maner. The culprits managed so ingemously and cautiously, that years passed before the prootJs had become sufficient to make any arrests. In the latter part of liS7 and the fore part of 1S3S. there wc-re several arrests made, and the proof foimd sufficient to pnt them on trial As they were men of property and tact it now beeame necessary that every proper exertion should l-e made to convict the guUty. 3Iany of the most respec table inhabitants stepped forward to suengthen the hands of the officers of the law. As the accused had the means, the most eminent connsel were employed in their defence, and equal c-ounsel was retained by said inhabitants to assist the District Attorney. In 3Iareh, lioS. Hiram W. Meeker was tried and sent to the State's Prison. In June, Daniel Head. Oran Head, and (Jeorge Brown were convicted aiid sentenced each to five years in the State's Prison. At the same term Guy Carter, jun.. was tried, but succeeded in getting a verdict of not guUty : subsequently he was tried for larceny, and stUl more sabsequentlj for perjury, but his good fortune in procuring testimony seemed to defy the m^hes of the law, and he escaped conviction. After these "292 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY [CHAP. repeated admonitions that the way of the transgressor is hard, and after his father, who was an able farmer, had ex pended his all, in the defence of his son, justice, though tardy, was sure. He went to Schenectady, passed counter feit money, was arrested, tried, convicted, and sent to the State's Prison. It was well remarked at the close of that June term, that Oneida County never in one year sent four better looking, better dressed, or more talented men to the Legislature, than it now sent to the State's Prison. Some important civil causes that were tried soon after, one of whieh was to some extent connected with a portion of the criminal prosecutions, caused a most deplorable state of things. Few, however fair their characters had previously been, were found who could not be impeached; such power ful litigants seemed to manufacture testimony for the occa sion. Neighbor was arrayed against neighbor, and most fortunate did the counsellor consider himself who could get one witness on to the stand who was not impeached by a dozen before the trial closed. This state of things has since subsided, and now society moves as quietly as in most other sections of the county. The lesson taught, that however successful, for a while, combinations in crime may prove, " justice will surely overtake the wicked," has been most salutary. It is but justice to close this lamentable chapter of crime with the remark, that many of the parents and relatives of the young men were not at all implicated. Un pleasant as has been the duty of penning the foregoing, still the hopes that it might be a beacon-light to the young men of Oneida, has been the only incentive. The oldest monument in the burying ground is that of Harriet, daughter of Henry and Margaret McNiel, who died AprU 28, 1796, aged one year and nine months. The next oldest is that of Ebenezer Ketchum, who died July 8, XV1I.J PAEIS. -93 1796, in the fifth year of his age. That there were earlier deaths at this place is probable, but the author has been un able to procure any earlier data. In looking through this cemetery, a nuniber of things strike the eye of the observer as singular. Deacon Nathan iel Tompkins had erected four monuments to as many wives he had buried side by side. The first, Elizabeth, died March 22, 1805, aged 27; the second, Mehitabel, who died Sep tember 10, 1810, aged 29 ; the third, Lucretia, died October 10, 1827, aged 43; and the fourth, Clarissa, who died May 20, 1839, aged 50. Deacon Tompkins himself died January 18, 1848, in the seventy -third year of his age. He left a widow, who still survives. In another part of the yard, is a stone erected to the memory of seven children of Patrick and Martha Camp bell, aged four, sixteen, twenty-five, twenty, sixteen, twentj'- five, sixteen. On another stone is this inscription : — '¦ In Remembrance of Geoeoe Stanton, who was burned in his house, Feb. 11, 1827, aged 67 years." On inquiry, the author learned that he was a brother of Deacon Daniel Stanton, and that he resided about one and a half miles from the village, within the present limits of the town of Marshall. The house was burned in the night time, during one of the coldest and most severe snow storms for many years ; and it was supposed that Mr. Stan ton succeeded in saving some articles of furniture, and went back for others, when, mistaking a door, he fell into the cellar, where his remains were found. He left a wife and three daughters, who escaped with nothing but their night clothes, and before they could get to a neighbor's, their 294 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. » [CHAP. limbs were all more or less frozen, some so severely that it was with difficulty they were saved from amputation. As an historioal reminiscence, it should be mentioned that, early in the settlement of this plaee, it was visited by Bush rod Washington, to see the lands that had fallen to him, as legatee of his illustrious relative, " the father of his country," St, Paul's Church, Paris Hill — -Episcopalian. — This is one of the oldest societies of this denomination in the county. The Rev, William Baker is rector at this time. By the parochial report to the diocese of Western New York, for 1850, there were fifty families belongmg to the congregation, thirty-six communicants, five of whom had been admitted within the year. The rector reports that " the parish of St, Paul's is in a very prosperous state.'' " The time to favor Zion, the set time, is come," and brethren dwell together in unity. Funds have been raised to enclose the church and lot with a neat fence, which is in progress. The vestry pro pose to plant shade trees around the church, which will be a great improvement. Sauquoit. — The name of this village is taken from that of the creek on which it stands, and is a corruption of the original Indian name, Se-dau-quate. This village (or more properly two villages) stands on two parallel streets, about half a mile from each other, on oppo site sides of the creek, and united by a cross street. On the west side is a tavern and store, the Presbyterian Church, post ofiice, with quite a number of private dwellings. On the east side is the Methodist Church, the Academy, a store. xvn.] PARIS. 295 a tavern, as also a number of private dwellings, mechanics, etc. On the cross street there are various kinds of machinery turned with water power. The settlement of this section of Paris was commenced soon after that on the Hill. In the fall of the same year, (1789,) Phineas Kellogg came and built a log house about 100 rods north of where Savage's tavern is now located. In March, 1790, Mr. KeUogg, John Butler, Sylvester Butler, Asa Shepard, and Mrs. Plumb and two children (the wife and children of Joseph Plumb),' removed from New Eng land, and arrived at the house built by Kellogg the preced ing fall. When they arrived, they found the roof broken in by the snow, a heavy bank of whieh yet remained in the house ; this was shoveled out, and the room made as com fortable as cireumstances would permit, for the accommodation of the new comers. Mr. Plumb followed the same spring. In the course of the season, probably there were some ar rivals, for in the fall William Swan, a lad of about fourteen years of age, died, which was the first death within the present limits of Paris, of which there is at this time any knowledge. The winter after Swan died, there were two or three deaths in the vicinity from the small pox. In the year 1791, Kirkland Griffin, Capt. Abner Bacon, Deacon Simeon Coe, Spencer Briggs, Baxter Gage, Josiah Hull, Nathan Robinson, Enos Pratt, and a Mr. Root, settled in the vicinity of Sauquoit. Mr. Butler is yet living on a farm about a mile west of the village, and Enos Pratt lives in Westmoreland. These two, it is believed, are all that sur vive of the heads of families who came to this part of Paris in the two years named. Kirkland Griffin, Esq., whose name has been mentioned as one of the early settlers of the Sauquoit valley, resided on the east side of the creek. During our revolutionary con- 296 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CIIAP. test, his life was an eventful one. He shipped on board of one of the earliest privateers that were fitted out in that contest, to annoy and cripple the commerce of Britain. The cruise was a short and unfortunate one, for their craft was soon captured by superior force, and taken to England, . and himself and comrades were confined in that den of misery, the Mill Prison. Here the sufferings of the prison ers were most intense. So stinted was their supply of food. that if fortunately a rat could be caught, it was roasted and deemed a luxury. Suffice it to say, that their sufferings were only equalled by the prisoners on board the Jersey prison ship, and the sugar house in New York. After thus suffering for two years and five months, they were exchanged, and sent in a cartel to the minister of the United States in France. Accessions of captured sailors had from time to time been made- to their numbers, so that, when exchanged, there were over two hundred. They were shipped for the United States on board the Alliance, 'the consort of tho Bonhomme Richard, under the command of Com. Paul Jones. That daring officer, instead of sailing direct to the United States, must needs " beard the lion in his den," by cruising around the Island of Britain. On this cruise he lell in with and engaged the Serapis frigate. The battle that followed was one of the most obstinate and bloody recorded in naval warfare. The stars and stripes were vic torious, and St George's cross humbled before them. After the British captain had come on board Com. Jones' vessel. ho in some way learned that the Mill Prison sailors were on board tho American vessel, and he then exclaimed, " Now I know why I am conquered ; without those prisoners you never could have obtained the victory." And well he might thus form an opinion, for he knew that men who had suffered n« these men, would take victory or death as a watchword. XVII.J PARIS. 297 vastly preferring the latter in fighting their country's battles, to another term in the Mill Prison. Confirmatory of this incident in the life of Esquire Griffin, the following is extracted from Cooper's Life of Paul Jones: — "Aboutthis time (1779) a cartel arrived at Nantes, bring ing in more than a hundred exchanged American seamen from Mill Prison. A short time before this exchange, Mr. Richard Dale, late a master's mate of the U. S, brig Lexing ton, had made his escape from the same prison, and had joined Jones in his old capacity. This gentleman, a native of Virginia, and subsequently the well known naval captain of this name, was now made first lieutenant of the Richard, by Jones, who had blank commissions by him. The men of the cartel were applied to, and many of them entered, thus giving the Richard a respectable body of Americans to sus tain the honor of the flag she wore." Esquire Griffin ever afterwards observed the anniversary of his release from the Mill Prison, as a day of thanksgiv ing. In true primeval New England style, on that day, his children and children's children were invited guests to share the bounty of the patriarch's table. When he left the Serapis, he took from her armament a plain cutlass, which he afterwards carefully retained. It is still preserved in his family, as a memento of the " times that tried men's souls." He was truly an excellent man. He held the office of Justice of the Peace for a number of years, and was the officer for this section of the town without distinction of party, Benjamin Jlerrills was an early settler in this vicinity. He was a soldier in the old French war, and was one of a detachment of 500 Connecticut troops sent to Havanna, on the Island of Cuba, in that contest. It is recorded in its 298 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [cHAP, history, that such was the unhealthiness of the climate, and the fatality of sickness, that but seventeen of their number lived to return ; and of this number was Mr, Merrills. In 1802 Judge James Orton kept a store and tavern in a part of the building now known as " Savage's Tavern Stand." Previous to Judge Orton's keeping a public house, Capt. Abner Bacon had kept a tavern on the sitS of the present residence of Col, Chauncy Butler. The Mctlwdist Episcopal Church is a neat brick struc ture, erected in 1842, The congregation is respectable, and the society flourishing. The Union Presbyterian Church of Sanijuoit was organ ized January 29, 1810, pursuant to a vote of the Norwich Church on the 13th of December, 1809, dismissing a number of their members for that purpose. The services of organ ization w-ere performed in the house of Capt Abner Bacon, the Rev. Messrs. E. Woodworth, J. Eastman, and J. South- worth officiating. It consisted of twenty-six members, the most of whom were dismissed from the Norwich Church ; the remainder were received by letters from other churches, and some by profession. For almost a year the church and society met in the school house, known as the " Centre School House,'' when their first house for public worship was dedi cated. The first deacons were Joseph Howard, Timothy L. Bacon, and David Curtis, and its first minister was the Rev. Ezra Woodworth, who was dismissed in 1813. He was suc ceeded by the Rev. Publius V. Bogue, who was subsequently installed pastor, March 15, 1815. Mr. Bogue was dismissed February 7, 1826. From Mr. Bogue's dismission until the spring of 1829, the Rev. Orin Catlin supplied the pulpit; from that time until tho faU of 1S30. the Rev. Oren Hyde: xvn.] PARIS. 299 from the fall of 1830 Tentius D. Southworth became stated supply, and continued as such until the Rev. Beriah Hotch- kin was installed pastor, April 30, 1833. The pastorate of Mr. Hotchkin continued until August 11, 1836. He was succeeded by the Rev. Francis Jones, who was installed December 5, 1838, and dismissed July, 1841. The present pastor, the Rev, John Waugh, immediately succeeded him as stated supply, and was subsequently installed, Deceniber 27, 1843, the same day on which their new house of worship was dedicated, which is a beautiful and commodious house, sixty feet by forty. The ecclesiastical relations of this church have been twice changed. It was organized as Congregationalist, and re mained connected with the Oneida Association until, by an unanimous vote, it became attached to Oneida Presbytery, on the accommodating plan. On the 26th of April, 1832, the church resolved to become wholly Presbyterian. This church at several times has been visited by powerful revivals of religion, particularly in 1820, 1829, 1839, and 1843. At present it numbers nearly 150 resident communi cants. The valley of the Sauquoit is rapidly filling with inhabitants, and the congregation constantly increasing. Cassville. — This is a small village in the south part of Paris, and on the Sauquoit Creek. At this point the main branch comes from the west, and after uniting with a small stream that heads in a large spring a short distance south westerly from the village, the creek turns abruptly to the north, which course it keeps until it empties into the Mo hawk, below Whitesboro. The first settlers at this place were Elias Hopkins, Mark Hopkins, and Eleazar Kellogg. The precise date of their settlement has not been ascertained, but it was quite early, 300 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. as Ellas Hopkins built a saw miU, the first mill of any kind erected above the Paris Furnace. It stood on the site of the grist mill owned by Benjamin Rhodes, of Bridgewater. There are now two saw mills on the west branch of the creek, above Cassville. There is a fork factory at this place, on the stream formed from the spring. There is another saw mill a short distance below the village. There was a grist mill buUt very early by John Budlong, (now John son's.) three-fourths of a mile above the Paris Furnace. It was reached by a road that came down the hill from the west, the road up the valley of the creek then reaching no higher than the furnace ; indeed it was for a number of years supposed by the first settlers that it would be im possible to make and maintain a road from the furnace up to CassviUe ; but modern enterprise has, however, completed an excellent plank road between these two places. Bud- long's mill is now known as Johnson's. There are two houses for public worship in Cassville. The Baptists have a very neat and well finished house. with a tower and bell, and the society is flourishing. Al though requested, the author has been unable to obtain the early history of this church. By the minutes of the Oneida Baptist Association, in the years 1847 and 1848 this church reported 129 members in each year. In the year 1849 it reported an addition of forty-one members, twenty-eight by baptism, and thirteen by letter, seven dismissed, and three died, present number 161. Worship is not now sustained in the Presbyterian house. From the mill built by Budlong, (now Johnson's,) the valley of the Sauquoit is a continuous succession of vUlages, and wa.er nower ai'-ilip"^ '"-- "ii-na=t nyerv manufacturing pur- xvn,] PARIS. 301 pose. For its size and length, the world can hardly furnish an equal to the Sauquoit Its length is but about twelve miles, and in that distance there is 860 feet fall, not by cataracts, but quite even in its whole course. Next below Johnson's mill are the two scythe factories, the upper owned by S, A, and the lower by David J. MiUard. These fac tories turn out about 4,000 dozen scythes and 3,000 dozen forks annually. Next is Miller's machine shop, connected with Potty's cupola furnace. Below these are the Clayville woolen factories, which manufacture about 800 yards of broad cloths daily, and pay about $80,000 annually for labor. This -village contains, as near as can be ascertained, 1,000 inhabitants. In the years 1848 and 1849, there has been an elegant Episcopal Church erected and completed in this place. Next below Clayville is a saw mill owned by D. J. MiUard ; then the Farmer's Factory, now o-wned by Hungerford & Ruger, who manufacture 9,000 yards of cotton goods per week ; and next the paper mill of Savage and Moore, doing a very extensive business. The next in order is the Frank lin Factory, owned by Brownell & Son, who manufacture from 15.000 to 20,000 yards of cotton goods per week. The next is the Bacon saw and grist mill, now owned by Henry GUbert ; then a saw mill and clothing works, owned by Abner Bacon ; next Brownell's new factory ; and last in the town of Paris is the saw mill of J. B, Bacon, A reminiscence of some interest is related showing how mistaken were the views of at least one of the early settlers. Judge Sanger sent a millwright, by the name of Spofford, to explore the Sauquoit from New Hartford upward, to ascer tain its capacity for water power. After carefully examin ing the stream, he reported that no site for a mill could be obtained above New Hartford until a little below where tho 302 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. Paris Furnace stood, and opposite the residence of the late Col. Avery, a distance of nearly sis miles, and in which it is now ascertained the creek faUs 384 feet. A son of Mr. Spofford afterwards erected a saw mill at the place selected by his father, and what renders it still more peculiar is, that the site thus designated is now considered one of the least feasible in the vicinity, and since the demolition of the saw mill, no structure has been there erected to use the water. The Paris Furnace, which did an extensive business for many years, was commenced in 1800, and went into opera tion in 1801; it stood a little below the Clayville factories. Eliphalet Sweeting was the first founder. A man by the name of Hill kept the first boarding house, in a log building, and as late as 1802 it was the only buUd ing within one mile of the furnace. On the hill west of the furnace, both above and below, the settlement was commenced earlier than at the furnace. Among these settlers were Col. Bentley, Deacon Charles Allen, and David Budlong. North of the furnace, in 1802, there was a log house, in which Thomas Spofford, the son of the millwright, resided, directly in front of the mansion of the late Col. Avery. The next was three-fourths of a mUe further north, which was a log house occupied by Theodore Gilbert, and stood near the present Spring House. Col. Gardner Avery, who removed to the -vicinity of the furnace in 1802, was for many years a large stockholder, and one of the leading managers of the concern. He was a man of strict integrity, and great business habits. The following is his obituary : — '•Died, at Saratoga, on the 17th of August, 1849, Col. Gakdnes Avert, aged 75 years. Col. Avery was one of the early settlers of Oneida, and through a long and active life maintained a character xvn.] PARIS. 303 for intelligence and integrity, such as few possess. As a professor of the Christian religion, he was conspicuous for his benevolence, for his zeal for promoting the interests of the cause he had espoused, the faithful and conscientious discharge of life's duties, and for a deportment generally in harmony with his profession." The following appeared in the Utica Observer, some time in 1844: — " Died, at Paris Hill, the 7th inst., after a distressing illness of four days, Edward Scovill, Esq., aged 54. He was the youngest son of the late Darius Scovill, who removed with his family from 'Watertown, Ct., to this place, in 1803, then almost a wilderness. The deceased having been a resident of Paris for forty-one years, had cultivated an extensive acquaintance in this section of our country, with its social, political, and religious history ; and in his social relation thereto, he was remarkable for his diflSdence in adopting hasty decisions on the apparent merits or demerits of principles and topics affecting any of these subjects ; and also for his firm adherence to them when adopted. In the relations of husband, parent, neighbor, and friend, he was kind, affectionate, obliging, firm, and enduring ; a zealous supporter of good order and gospel institutions." By the census of 1845, this town had 3,097 inhabitant six grist mills, and seven saw mills. 304 ANNALS 07 OKEIDA COV:.'TY. [cHAP. CHAPTER XVIII. REMSEN. Thls town forms the north-east comer of Oneida County) this angle extending further north than any other portion of the county. It is located on the summit between Lake Ontario and the vaUey of the Mohawk at Utica. The Black River passes through it near its centre, in a north west course towards Lake Ontario at Saeketts Harbor. The north bounds of the town cross Moose River, an important branch of the Black River. West Oanada Creek, the larg est tributary of the Mohawk, forms the eastern boundary of the town, where it is the dividing line between Oneida and Herkimer Counties. The smaUer streams that rise in the town flow into both the Black River and Canada Creek. The numerous falls and rapids in these two streams show that the altitude of Remsen is very great. Like aU high sections of coimtry, its soU is better adapted to pasturage than tiUage. With the exception of oats, whieh produce quite well, there is but Uttle grain raised, yet smaU quanti ties of com, barley, and buckwheat, are cultivated Geology. — The geology of the town differs bnt Uttle from the other high sections of the county. The southern part of the town rests on a bed of limestone, exceUent for cement when burnt, and for cutting for buUding and other purpos-es. In the section north of the Black River, primitive ->:vm.] REMSEN. 305 rock bowlders, a species of granite, abound. Some speci mens of iron ore have been discovered in its north-east part, ¦and it is believed by many that future research will show that it abounds in that quarter of the town. This town was named from Henry Remsen, late of the I'ity of New York, one ofthe original patentees of Remsen- burgh Patent, which was located mostly within the present limits of Remsen. Considerable portions of a number of t he old patents were embraced in it, viz. : — Adgate's eastern tract, WoodhtiU's (being about eight miles square),. Remsen- burgh, and a small part of Service's. In territory it is a very large town, and although Verona by some is claimed to 1 10 the largest, still future surveys may give the precedence ro Remsen. Until recently the northern half of the town was little known, and -ndth but very few permanent settlers ; but since the commencement of the Black River Canal and feeder, this part of the town has risen in importance. The canal feeder dam, nine miles above Boonville, is in this town, and as the canal is now completed to Boonville, a market is opened for the vast amount of lumber standing on these lands. Capitalists can not fail of investing the necessary amount to render it available, by bringing into use the almost unlimited water power with which the country abounds. Another reason why this section of the country has reniained dormant is, that much of the land has been kept out of market, A better state of things in this respect nmv prevails ; the land is put for sale, and this will soon add so materially to its population, that it probably wili ^(Kin be divided, so as to make a new town in the north part. including the Woodhull Tract, The settlement of this town was commenced in 1792, Barnabas Mitchell, from Meriden, Connecticut, was the only 20 305 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [oHAP, settler in that year. The whole region was then a howling wilderness, and we can hardly conceive at the present day of the amount of moral courage necessary to induce a settler to thus locate himself and family so far from the dwellings of his fellow men. Hardships they experienced, but hope buoyed them up. He located about five miles north-east of the present village. In 1793 our pioneer was cheered with quite a reinforcement to the settlement.. In this year Jolm Bonner, Nathaniel Rockwood, Bettis Leclero, Perez Farr, and Jonah Dayton moved into the present limits of Rem sen. These first settlers are now all dead, and their hard- sliips, privations, and trials are unwritten. Indeed, nearly all the early settlers have paid the debt of nature, and their posterity, some of whom are now on the down hill of life, in many instances occupy their places. Milo Mitchell, Esq.,. a aon of the first settler, seems to have inherited at least a portion of his father's enterprise, industry, and perseverance, for he is the largest farmer in Remsen. The first death in the town was that of Capt Peck, but the date of his decease is not known. The first birth wa.s that of Polly Mitchell, daughter of the first emigrant The early settlers of this town were from the Eastern States; but about the year 180^5, David Mound, John James, Griffith I. Jones, John Owens, and Hugh Hughes,. fresh from the mountains of Wales, located in Remsen. This commenced a new era in its population. The reports of these early foreign emigrants to their friends in Wales, of the cheapness and fitness for dairying of the lands iu this section has induced these Ancient Britons to emigrate in such numbers, that competent residents of the town believe that at least three-fourths of its population ar<.- Welsh. It is said that Remsen, Steuben, Trenton, and por tions of Deerfield, Marcy. and Boonville, aro almost as well XVIU-j REMSEN. 307 known in Wales as in Oneida County. These descendants of the ancient Cambrians form a hardy, industrious, frugal, and of course thriving population. Their butter dairies, for which they are far famed, are carried on to great perfec tion, producing an article rivalling the products of old Dutchess. They are a moral and religious people. The statistics of crime in Great Britain show that, in an equal population, but one Welshman to ten Englishmen and fifteen Irishmen are convicted, and it is confidently believed that the records of Oneida show that here this people have not degenerated. The author's probity as an historian, and the portions of English and Irish blood that course in his veins, he believes to be sufficient to incite to impartiality, still he hopes to be pardoned if he speaks a little enthusiastically of a people from whom he is in a direct line descended. RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES These are all Welsh, and divided into four denominations, viz.: — Episcopal Methodists, Whitfield Methodists, Presby terians, and Baptists. The Whitfield Methodists are the most numerous. There are ten houses for public worship in the town. Although the Welsh are somewhat noted for dividing into small societies, still as they are remarkable for their strict attendance at' church, these several houses are well filled, and preaching well supported. They are exact as regards their religious discipline, and- as a people they are Calvinistic in their doctrines. A Welsh Catholic would be an anomaly, and they are peculiar in their hatred' of all that appertains to Popery. It is quite well asoertained that this people have furnished but one Catholic in Oneida 308 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTT, [cHAP. County. They are almost ai nation of singers, and in this part of public worship nearly the entire congregation join. In general their voices are harsh, but probably this is more from want of cultivation than any native defect, as some who have cultivated their voices are superior. They excel in harmony, discords rarely occurring. Schools. — The schools in this town have heretofore been well attended and flourishing. The effeets of the free school law of the last year (1849) have been most deleterious; schools are on the decline, and in some districts there are now no-schools. This is but common with all the agricul tural and rural districts in the county. This state of things should be a warning to future legislatures, never to assume, unasked and unexpectedly, to legislate on important ques tions, where the great body of thepeople are interested. Rcinscn Village. — This is the only village in the town. and was incorporated in 1845. It is situated in the south west corner of the town, including a small piece of Trenton within the bounds of the corporation. The Cincinnatus Creek passes directly through it, and towards the lower part of the village the creek falls about twenty-five feet nearly perpen dicularly, which vastly adds to its capacity for turning mach inery. The settlement of the village was commenced in 1795. by James Smith, deceased, who opened a public house in the plaoe. The building he prepared for the accommodation of travellers, was composed in part of boards and part of logs. This public house thus constructed was continued for several years. Broughton White, Esq., now one of the oldest citizens of the town, opened the first store, in 1803, and a store has been continued on the same spot to the present time. Esq. X\'ni.] REMSEN. 309 White was a surveyor, and for some years was a member of Baron Steuben's family, while the Baron was engaged in settling his patent in Steuben. There are at this time in the village two taverns, five stores, an extensive tannery, for many years conducted by Mather Beecher, Esq., and now by Hale & Colback, three saw mills, and most of the mechanic shops found in country villages. There are three commodious houses for public worship within the village, one Baptist, one Congregation alist, and one Whitfield Methodist ; and there is an Aca demy, in which, on the first of January, 1850, there were fifty-six students in attendance ; also a common and infant school. The plank road from Utica to Boonville passes through the village. This place was formerly conspicuous for its intemperance. and the means it furnished to its own and the neighboring inhabitants. A respectable merchant, who has now banished alcoholic drinks from his store, informed the author that at one time he retailed 3,500 gallons of whisky in five months. He said, — "Such was the press that we did not stop to measure, for when a customer brought a keg, wc inquired its capacity, placed it under the tap, and filled it, rolled it away, and under with another." " Yes," said a partner, who was sitting by, " and we did not make one penny by all this liquor traffic, for at the same time we were retailing goods ou credit, and with our strong drink we sent out among our customers such a flood of bankruptcy, ruin, and death, that in the end we lost more than we made by it." The tem perance reform has performed wonders for Remsen. Her inhabitants in this have developed one of their true Welsh traits, — perseverance. They less rarely break their pledge than any other people. Comparatively very little alcohol is now used as a beverage. 310 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. There is a Rechabite Tent in the place, numbering over 1 00 members, and they are making sober men of the intem perate. The innkeepers are not licensed to sell strong drink. The village numbers about five hundred inhabitants, and there are few in the county of its size where more business is transacted. There are in the town twelve saw miUs, two grist mills (one worked by steam), seven mercantile houses, besides groceries, three physicians, and three la-wyers. The first town meeting was held in 1798, and the follow ing is a list of the Supervisors elected, and the number of years each has served : — Ephraim HoUister - 1 year. Gershom Hinckley 10 " Broughton AVhite 11 '¦ James Sheldon 2 " Zalmon Eoot - - 2 ¦' Luther Conkling 2 " Lemuel Hough - 3 " Henry R. Sheldon 6 " Mather Beecher - 4 " Evan Owens 5 " Thomas R. Vfhite 1 " Obadiah J. Owens 1 " Griffith 0. Grifflths 1 " .-bidrew Billings - 1 " William H. Thomas 2 " Evan Jones - 1 " The following obituary is from'' the Utica Daily Gazette of June 9, 1851: — Died, at Remsen, on the first inst., Mr. John G. Jones, aged 68 years. xvm.] REMSEN. 311 Mr. Jones was one of the oldest and most respectable inhabitants -it his toivn, and -was very highly esteemed by a large circle of ac quaintances. He resided in this vicinity about iifty years, and accu mulated great wealth. He was followed to his resting-place by about 500 of his old friends, and no less than 110 carriages und wag gons being in t'ne procession. 312 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. CHAPTER XIX This town presents a richer field for the historian thar. any other town in the eounty. At a point within its limits, the Mohawk River and Wood Creek, while of sufficient size for batteau navigation, approach within a mile and a half of each other. The intervening ground is low, and covered with a deep alluvial deposit, from which it may be inferred thut far back in the history of our globe, during freshets. their waters commingled, and still farther back, when tho barrier of Fall Hill -was unbroken, the valleys of the Mo hawk and Wood Creek were covered with a lake, extending westward from that barrier some sixty or seventy miles, and including the Oneida Lake. The cobble stone on the dry plain upon which the village of Rome is built, give evidence >tiimfiue the children in the Mohawk Valley who would be kn father- le??, and liiis at a time when Fort iSon-wix and :if iitiie pirriiJ?B wt'-iild be all that would be left benre^i: the erc^l -sr-vjges. and m-jre savage tories. ;.ati th«r firesides : thaf he feared if Lis ".".;:V band failed in relie-ring the fort, it woold ^•>:n s-.irrender. a".;d then n-: thing could save their i.o-u:.-- :r :!: -_lr fire'j-ra'.jiL and their good wives and children t.\ _; the tomahawk and scalping knifo : that, burning as tAey n<-;Trmed to meet tee enemy, they would run at his tr>; ir- pearance." The elamor. however, inore ise-i. ¦with ret»a:«-! reproaches of -.-'rrism and cowardice, untfl. stung te- tie quiek acd irrigated, he gave the word — -Maret on. " 0=i receiving the couuaand. tiie troop«s gave a shoit. is^! ic rather jxi/ si^l order, rapidly moved forward. This >:.-.ie •>f uiiogs -rrrvey.re^i the precaution of throwing oat far-I-'r-: parties, s-3 neers-srirv where a savage foe sjad ambosesdcs were to be antidpaied. Tiis was the more inexc-risitie. is the letter from Oneida Lid ffivec thera timdv wamici: 341 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTV. [CHAP. St. Leger, having reoeived notice of the approach of Gen. Herkimer, dispatched Col. Butler, with a large portion of his loyalist force, and Brant, with most of the Indians, to intercept him. Brant, not feeling entirely satisfied that the force detailed was sufficient to cope with Gen. Herkimer, and 'wishing to learn his numbers and order of march, dis patched a scenting party of Indians to obtain, if possible, the desired information. Eor this purpose the party proceeded to a small stream about a mile west of Oriskany, where thoy seorcted ono of their number in a hole dug in procuring. earth to cover a causeway in the ravine, and about thirty feet frora the road which Gen. Herkimer would take, cover ing him fram view -with hemlock brush. Here, snugly en sconsed, he correetly numbered Herkimer's command as it passed, and after the rear-guard had gone by, made a rapid movement through ' the forest,, and informed Brant of the exact strength of the party, and which was not as numerous as Brant had supposed. Brant and Butler had selected a place well fitted by nature for the attaek. The road leading then from Oriskany to Fort Stanwix, was through an unbroken forest, and abont two miles from tho former, crossed the deep ravine, some thirty rods north of the present road to Home. The bottom of the ravine was marshy, but a log causeway rendered it passable. The ambuscade commenced at the ravine, the enemy lying concealed on botli sides of the road, for almost a mile above it. Gen. Herkimer, who rodo a white horse, was in the advance with Coxe's regiment, and had crossed the smaller ravine some little distance above the one first mentioned, and tho whole column in open order, with tint exception of the rear-guard, composed of Vischer's regiment, had passed the causeway, when the Indian war-whoop wa» given as the signal of attack, and the murderous conflict commenced. The attaok -was general, and from every quar ter, Tho Indians immediately closed up the opening at thi> causeway, severing die rear-guard from the main body, an J thn.< situated, it broke and fletl. Thev were pursued by the Indians, and no jK the better to repel ti;e attacks of the enemy, who were now closing in upon theiu on all sides. In a great measure the firing had ceased, but the wv>rk of death was progro.^iug with the tomahawk. the bayonet, the knife, and clubbed musket, and resistance became eflSective, At this juncture a heavy shower of rain arose, whieh .-jrrested the fight for more than an hour, and this gave Herkimer's men an opportunitj to organiie still more perfeotly. A cirele was formed around the -wounded General, and it became neooss,-«ry to place two men to a tr\'^ !:.stosd of one, -with orders for bnt one to fire at a time. 346 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. 'I'his was to counteract the tactics of the Indians, who, whenever they saw a musket discharged from behind a tree, ran up and tomahawked its owner before he had time to reload. After the rain had subsided, the fight was renewed with still deadlier ardor, and the advantages of the new ar rangement were soon seen, for the life of many a tawny son of the forest paid the forfeit of his temerity in rushing be hind a tree where there was still a loaded musket It soon beeame apparent, from their flagging efforts, that the Indians were becoming sick of the fight, and hope began to animate the Americans. At this point the enemy were reinforced by a detachment of •' Johnson's Greens," led by Maj. Stephen Watt, a brother-in-law of Col. John Johnson. The regiment of which it was a part was raised by Col. Johnson in Canada, but a large portion of the men were refugees from the Mo- b.iwk Valley. The blood of the Dutchmen" boiled at the sight of these tories, for they wore, in many instances, per sonal acquaintances, who had fled their country, and were now returned as eneinies, and a mutual recognition took place- Revenge .ind hate doubly nerved the arms of Her kimer's men, and they fired upon them, and then springing from their covers, attacked them t\'ith bayonets, and when these v/ere wanting, with tlic butts of their muskets: er throttling each other, and drawing their knives, stabbinsr, ;iud frequently dying in each other's embrace. In this la,st ji-sault, Col. Cox was killed. Ho possessed a daring spirit, and mingled in the thickest of the fight, and his voice conld be heard eheering on his men, above the clashing of arms or the yells of the savages. This murderous conflict con tinued for half an hour, in which Ma.jor 'Watt was wounded and taken prisoner, but left on the field. Col. "Willett's narrative states that this officer was slain, but in this was incorrect. He was left, .as was supposed, mortally wounded. XIX.J ROME. 34?" but after the battle he crawled to a stream of water, and slaked his thirst, and this was his only nourishment for two days, when he was found alive by some Indian scouts, and brought into St. Leger's camp. A heavy firing in tbe direc tion of Fort Stanwix leading the British to believe that their presence was more needed in that quarter, the retreat was sounded, and nothing loth, they withdrew, leaving the Tryon County- militia the honor of retaining the battle field. It was, however, purchased at a fearful price : two hundred Americans, one-fourth of their original number, were either dead on the field, or too severely wounded to be removed. Col. Cox, and Majors Ersinlord, Klepsattle, aud Van Slyck, were among the slain, with Thomas Spencer, the Indian interpreter. Without burying the dead, with sueh wounded as could be removed, the shattered remains of this gallant band retraced their way to old Fort Schuyler, the present site of Utica, where they encamped for the night, and on the next day many of the men reached their homes. Tryon County was literally filled with mourning. There was scarcely a family in the Mohawk Valley but what had lost some relative, a father, brother, or cousin."' Few battles have been fought at a greater disadvant;Lge. than was that of Oriskany to the Americans. On tho first attack, their baggage and ammunition waggons fell into the hands of the enemy, and their cartridge boxes therefore con tained their all of ammunition ; the day was 'warm, and sur rounded as they were, no water could be procured ; under all these disadvantages, they defended themselves for six * Judge Gray, of Herkimer, now one of the Judges of the Suprenie Coui-t of this iState, informed the author tliat his grandfather, two uncles, aud other more distant relatives, were killed in the battle. Auother uncle, Lieut. Samuel Gray, was in the battle, but escaped iiuhurt. and assisted in carrying Gen. Herkimer from the field. 348 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COtTNTY. [cHAP. long hours. They had acted rashly in moving forward as they did in the morning, but by their unyielding courage they well retrieved their reputation. Notwithstanding the disadvantages under which the battle was fought, the enemy were caused to suffer equally with themselves. The loyal ists and Indians each lost in killed about 100, besides many wounded. The Seneca Indians were placed by Brant in and near the ravine, and fifteen of their chiefs fell in that part of the field. In an address before the New York Historical Society. Governeur Morris said : — " Let me recal, gentlemen, to your recollection, the bloody spot where Herkimer fell. There was found the Indian and the white man, born on the banks of the Mohawk, their left hand clenched in each other's hair, the right grasping in the gra.sp of death the knife, plunged in eaoh other's bosoms ; thus they lay frowning." Although the struggle at the time was so nearly balanced, yet in its results, it was to the Americans a victory achieved. The spirit ofthe Six Nations was in a great measure broken, and although scattered bands of them committed their de predations and cruelties, they never afterwards would make stand for a field fight. J. R. Simms, Esq., in his "History of Schoharie County, and Border Wars of New York," has recorded a great num ber of personal incidents, and feats of courage and prowess, (in many cases taken from the relations of the actors,) con nected with Indian and tory irruptions upon the Mohawk, and from among which the author has selected the following relating to the Oriskany battle : — After the Indians had mostly left upon hearing the firing at Fort Stanwix during the sortie" of Col. WUlett, Capt. John James Davis remarked to Isaac Covenhoven, a soldier XSX.] COKE. 34'3 stuidiDg near, that he -believed the red devils bad preuv mw^ all kfi thoa.^' - 1 don't knov/' said C~, - there mav be some rf them faurking about yet'' These words were ^catedy uttered before Gapt. I>avis. a br^ve and meiitumc a« eiis2 iiseraliv riddled by b^ilieis and t.;iyontts, C.^r:- ^i^arditii-er cnept into a cavity ai the rt^its rf a fallen trt-e, aad MutiaKed the ^it. He had vith him a German lid as a -oraiier. who isea re,-.:.::!? very us-i^ai. bmis^ng u- Li* -.ax^tc- guBB of the fallen, loading sudi as -^-jre n:-t loaded. ei«r. He w£s s.< wi>anded tii^it he could n^th^ stand r.or load iis OWE j-iii. aad yet from his plaoe rf t-cniwriry ss£^ he -iii to litlle exe^uiioa. Obsnving aa laoian stealthiij c>dgiag fram tr-;* to tree to g-rt a sioi at an Amerieaa elieer, npon whosi be had brcKight his ride several tlir^ s with partial aim, CMii. G. she: him. and sent Lis S^^ JDmiitA, 60^. as he cslkd him. t-.-' gus]T to the tvs;, iri had in his eiapi-.^ a man caiaed Hesrj ThainpsiE:. a tiiivi rf New Jersey, who - wis a taU, Ipok-looking ^Isv, 350 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTT. [CHAP as odd as he was ungainly. He was in the Oriskany battle, as a private under his employer, and after the conflict had lasted some time, and groans and death were rendered familiar, he approached the captain, and told him he was hungry. ' Fight away] said the intrepid ofiicer. ' / can't, uitJwut eating] said Thompson. ' Then go and get a piece] was the reply. He did so ; sat down in the midst of the battle, on the body of a dead soldier, and ate heartily, while the bullets were cutting the air around his head like hail stones. Having finished his repast, he ftrosc, and fought with renewed energy, appearing in the thickest of the fight, Such an evidence of cool bravery to gratify hunger, I be lieve was never excelled, if before equalled." Samuel Gardinier, a brother of the captain, received two . balls frora opposite directions, evidently from fowling pieces, and which met in his side, just above the groin. After the balls were extracted, he recovered, and the balls are still kept as sacred relics by his descendants. In the heat of the battle, a little aside from the main body, William Merokley, of Stone Arabia, was shot by an Indian, and mortally wounded. Valentine Fralick, a neigh bor, seeing him fall, came to him, and kindly offered to assist him. " Take care of yourself, and leave me to -ca-^ fate," was the wounded man's reply. Several Indians ap proaching at this moment, Fralick concealed himself under a fallen tree, and shortly after, going to the spot, he found that his friend had been tomahawked and scalped. Giving the body a temporary burial, he returned to the Ameriean camp on the battle field. " After the battle of Oriskany, a song, commemorative of the event, was composed, and for a long time sung in the Mohawk Valley, of which the following is a stanza : — ¦ x;x.] SOME. 351 . Jj Brave Ilerkimor, our General, ia dead, And Colonel Cox is slain ; And many more and valiant men, We ne'er shall see again." As has been stated, Gen. Herkimer was wounded early in the battle, yet he continued to give his orders with coolness and promptness until the enemy withdrew. At one time, while the battle was raging fiercely around him, not forget ting his Dutch habit, he deliberately tpok his tinder box from his pocket, and. with his pocket knife and a flint arrow head, carried for the purpose, he lit his pipe, and smoked vith great composure. After the battle, he was removed on a litter to his house, two miles below the Little Italia. In a few days amputation became necessary, but through want of skill in the operator, tho arteries were not properly se cured.* His attendants, the night following, were cautioned to keep a close watch, to see that the wound did not bleed, and if it did, to give immediate notice ; but the bottle of spirits, which was formerly thought to be indispensable in the sick room, was too powerful for the nerves of the watch ers, and they all went to sleep, and when they awoke they found the wound bleeding profusely. The alarm was given, but it was too late, the loss of blood had been such^ that he could not be saved. The General himself now becoming satisfied that but few more of the sands of life were left to run. called for his Bible, and very composedly selected one of the Psalms most appropriate to his case, which he read with great fervor, soon after which the hero who had thus shed his blood for his country — now the Christian hero — * Col. Willett called to see the General soon after the operation, and found him sitting in bed smoking his pipe, kui conversing in flno spirits. Early the next morning he learned that the Genera! had died ia the niglit, having bled to, death. — WiUelt's Narrative. 352 annjs-ls of oneiha cou.s'ty. [caj^v. calmly and composedly resigned his spirit to Him who gave' it. Thus one of the most valuable lives in his county was lost for lack of scientific skill in the operator, and the effects of alcohol on the attendants.* Since writing the foregoing, the author accidentally dis covered the following letter in a number of The Political Atlas, published in Stockbridge^ Massachusetts, in June, 1807. The facts and incidents related are singular aud interesting. " ScnE.N-ECTADY, Junc 8, 1807. "On Thursday, the 4th inst., about four miles from the city of Schenectady, aside of the Mohawk turnpike, sitting under a tree, 1 discovered Petrus Groot, who was supposed to have been slain in the Oriskany battle, under Gen. Herkimer, on tho Gth of Augus'-, in the year 1777. I immediately recognized him, and on conversing with him, he confessed hiraself to be the person I took him to be. I then carried him to the nearest tavern, whero I left him to be sent to his children and brothers, from whence, however, he departed before day the next morning, and was seen in Albany on Friday. His mental faculties are much impaired, supposed to have been occasioned by a wound of a tomahawk near the fore part cff his head, though he is at most times tolerably rational. His he'ad is bald, the circle or scar ofthe scalping knife is plainly to be seen on it, as also a stab on the side of his neck, near the shoulder, and a small scar near the ancle. * * * He speaks English, French, Dutch, and Indian, and says he has been last a pri30u,3r among the * The authii,- has m.ide.qrcnl c-xerlion to obtain the a-.-f: of Gen. Ilei-kinncr jit ihn- time of his death. Even Miico the printer liud cimmenct-d thia chaiittr, thniu:ih :i. l-.-ieud we have cummunica ed v/iln a nephew ol the Gencriii, by the njim - of l.t-r- kimer. rtibidinK a.: Ilackton, Herkimer County. The nephew id entirely U(i:il*)e, irom any meun:^ in his pi^'ei-Biun, to gi-.-e the desired informaiion, but staleU Jii* l!<» tielief, that his ttncie at the lims of his ileiilh wnj hut ijb.nii forly-Sve yimrs of age. Tito aufhnr hMd supposed that he wag cunaiderahly further cdvr.ncrd in life, a^id litii-e the questioii rests, perhapg iievor to be sclvtd. XIX.] ROME. 353 Indians, north of Quebec. Had on au old dark gray coat, old brown ish pantaloons, and has a large pack with him. He refused to go home, as one of his former neighbors whom he saw would not recog nize him, he was fearful his children and brothers would not. He said he would go to the Governor's. Being at times gleranged, it is Veared he will stray away too far for his friends to find him. He is of a very respectable family and connection. " The printers in this and neighboring States are requested to give this a few insertions in their papers, to aid in restoring a poor sufferer to his children and friends, who has been thirty years a {nisoner among the Indians. He is now sixty-flve years of age. He was a Lieutenant in the militia at the time he was supposed to have been slain. John Sandbks." But to return to the fort. After experiencing many de lays and encountering many difficultieSj Adam Heimer — who, it will be recollected, was dispatched by Gen. Her kimer from Oriskany -^succeeded in getting into Fort Stan wix and delivering his message at about 1 o'clock P. M., or, as other accounts say, 10 or 11 A. M. The signal guns were fired, but whether they were heard by. Gen. Herkimer or his men, is not known. Col. -Gansevoort immediately de tailed 200 men, with a field piece, under Col. Willett, his second in command, to make a sally, and cause a diversion in favor of Herkimer, for the firing had been heard from the battle field, and the uncommon bustle in the tory and Indian camp^ led Ooi. Gansevoort to very correctly appreciate the posture of affairs. Just as the detachment under Col. Willett was about to leave the fort, the shower previously mentioned came on, which caused a delay. Fifty men, with ¦a light three-pounder on a travelling carriage, having been added to Col. Willett's party, and the rain having ceased, at about two o'clock the sortie was made, Col. Willett proceed ing directly to the tory camp. Such was the impetuosity of their movements, that Sir John Johnson's regiment sought 23 3.54 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [oHitP. safety in flight. Willett then marched to the Indian camp, whieh was forced with equal celerity. The Americans captured the entire camp equipage, cloth ing, blankets, stores, etc., of the two camps, and the baggage and papers of most of the of&cers. There were in the fort seven teams of'horses and waggons, and these were now dispatched for the plunder taken in the enemies' camps, and they passed to and from them three times each, twenty-one loads in all. The storming party having accomplished their work, now made a move to re turn, when it Was found that St. Leger was making an attempt to intercept them. A sharp fire from the party, aided by the cannon on the fort, caused him to desist, and the Americans arrived safely in the fort, without the loss of a single man. Among the plunder were five British stand ards, and these were immediately run up to flutter in the breeze beneath the stars and stripes. Within a few years past. Gen. Peter Gansevoort, of Albany, son of the com mandant of Fort Stanwix, presented to an Independent Military Company of that' city, a brass drum taken in this sortie. St. Leger, though in effect defeated, resolved not to regard the events of the day in that light, but to use them even to aid hirp in obtaining the surrender of the fort. He com pelled Col. Bellinger and Major Frey, who were now in his oamp as prisoners, to address a letter to Col. Gansevoort, dated 9 o'clock in the evening, August 6th, exaggerating tiie disasters of the day, and strongly urging a surrender, telling him how strong were his besiegers, that no succor could reach him, and assuming that Burgoyne was already at Albany. After a verbal demand for a surrender, which was indignantly rejected on the ground that it was a breach of the etiquette always due from iionorable belligerents to 21X.J ROME. 355 send a verbal messsage for a surrender, St. Leger imme diately followed it by a written one, to which Col. Ganse voort sent the following laconic answer : — - Sir ; — In ans-.ver to your letter of to-day's date, I have only to say, that it is my determined resolution, with the ftjrces under my command, to defend this fort, at every hazard, to the last extremity, iu behalf of the United American States, who have placed me here to defend it against all their enemies. " I have the honor to be, Sir, " Your most obedient and humble servant, " Peter. GiJJSEvooRT, Col., " Commanding Fort Stanwix.' ' Ihe only damage which the besieged had as yet received, was caused by the bursting of a few shells, killing a small number of the garrison, and slightly injuring the barracks, St Leger's cannon being found altogether too light to make any impression on the walls of the fort. Cils Schuyler, on hearing of the attack on Gen. Herki mer. a-;.d its ¦ results, dispatched Gen. Arnold with Gen. Jiariit-d's brigade to its relief, at the same time writing a letter to Col. Gansevoort, exhorting him to hold out to the last extremity, and encouraging him with flattering accounts oi the prospects of staying the march of Burgoyne. On the ¦2-2d of August, Gen. Arnold, with about 900 light troops. arrived at Fort Dayton, which stood in the present -village of Herkimer, where he halted, thinking it advisable not to proceed further until the arrival of reinforcements- He also addressed a letter to Col. Gansevoort, urging him to sufier no apprehensions as to the result, for he knew the strength of the enemy, and knew how to deal with them, stating that he had been retarded by the roads, etc., and that militia were now joining him in great numbers, etc. He also an- 356 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. fcHAP. nounced to Col. Gansevoort the victory of Stark at Benning ton, and closes : — " Burgoyne, I hear this minute, is retreating to Ty. I make no doubt our army, which is near fifteen thousand strong, will cut off his retreat." The situation of the garrison, although not desperate, was becoming critical. If not relieved soon, the want of pro vision would compel them either to surrender or cut their way through a superior force in the night time, and retreat to join Arnold at Fort Dayton. The latter alternative Col. Gansevoort had resolved to pursue when he should be re duced to one or two days' rations. " Those who knew him best, knew how well he dared to execute his resolves.'' That nothing might be left undone, Col. Gansevoort thought it advisable to dispatch the brave Col. Willett and Lieut. Stockwell* to apprise Gen. Schuyler of his situation, and urge him to send an adequate force to his relief We will accompany these two, and briefly relate the occurrences which followed, and whieh eventuated in the raising the siege. These officers left at 10 o'clock in the evening, on the 10th of August, creeping on their hands and knees through the enemy's lines, and adopting various arts of con cealment on their way through swamps and pathless woods. From the manner in which they were obliged to make their egress from the fort, they could- take no provisions with them, except a few crackers and cheese. In pursuing their way on the north side of the Mohawk, they very opportunely came to a place where a hurricane had, a few years previously, * There is some difficulty at this time in ascertaining Stockwell's rank. In some accounts he is called Lieutenant, in others Major. Even in 'Willett's Narrative both titles are promiscuously used. The probability is, that in 1777 he was but a Lieutenant, but before the close of the war had, been promoted to a Majority. Lieut. Stock- well had been selected on account of his peculiar fltness for sueh an enterprise; as he was an excellent woodsman and hunter. XIX.] ROME. 357 prostrated the trees of the forest, and these had been suc ceeded by a luxuriant growth of blackberry bushes, whose fruit was then ripe, and of which they made their only meal until they arrived at Fort Dayton.* On arriving there, they received a hearty welcome from Col. Weston, who was sta tioned there with his regiment, and who gave them the agreeable intelligence that Gen. Larned had been ordered by Gen. Schuyler to march his brigade of Massachusetts troops to the relief of the fort. Resting but one night at Fort Dayton, Col. Willett and Lieut. Stockwell started early the next morning, on horseback, to meet these troops, which they had the satisfaction of doing the same day at night. Gen, Larned informed them that Gen. Arnold, who was then at Albany, was to command the troops marching to the relief of the fort. Col. Willett the next day repaired to that city, where he learned from Gen. Arnold that the first New Tork regiment was on its march to join Larned's bri gade. The next day Gen. Arnold and Col. Willett followed the troops up the Mohawk, and in two days arrived at Fort Dayton. Arnold received information that there was to be a gather ing of tories on a certain night at Shoemaker's, one of the king's Justices of the Peace, on the south side of the Mo hawk, a few miles above, and Col. Willett, who was at the time at Fort Dayton, was dispatched with a competent force to arrest them. Col. Willett and his party arrived and sur- * The "British Annual Register,'.' of 1777, thus speaks of this enterprise ; — " Col. Willett afterwaVds [after the sally] undertook, in company with another ofiBoer, a much more perilous expedition. They passed by night through the besiegers' works, and in contempt of the danger and cruelty of the savages, made their way for fifty miles through pathless woods and unexplored morasses, in order to ' raise the country, and bring relief to the fort. Such an action de raands even the praise of an enemy." 358 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAF. rounded Shoemaker's in the night time, and made prisoners of the whole party, some twenty in number, and they were soon lodged in Fort Dayton. Among the number was Hanyost Schuyler, one of the coarsest and most ignorant specimens of humanity to be found in the valley, and yet a large share of shrewdness and low cunning were interwoven in his character. He had been so notorious as a spy, that a drum-head court-martial, which was called the next day for his trial, found no difficulty in pronouncing him guilty, and he was sentenced to be hung the following morning. Capt. Hull was a member of this court martial, he who was the General Hull who so ingloriously surrendered Detroit in the war of 1812, and who was sentenced to death for his base conduct. The mother and brother of Hanyost resided at the Little Falls, who, having heard of his capture and sentence, lost n 1 time in applying to Arnold to spare his life ; the General was, however, inexorable, Major Brooks, of Larned's bri gade, perceiving the posture of affairs, and believing that some capital might be made out of the spy, went to Gen. Arnold and stated the scheme to him. Gen. Arnold, warned by the fate of Gen. Herkimer, and fearing his force insuf ficient to raise the siege, the more readily agreed to resort to stratagem. The plan concocted was this : — Hanyost was to be suffered td escape from the guardhouse, and his life spared. on condition that he should repair to the Indian and tory camps in the vicinity of Fort Stanwix, and by an exagger ated account of Arnold's force, induce them to desert their leader in sufficient numbers to cause St. Leger tb raise the siege. If he failed, his brother, who consented to remain as a hostage, was to grace the same noose which had been pre pared for Hanyost. All having been arranged, Arnold and Brooks went out, and related the particulars of the plan in XIX.J ROME, 35S , the presence and bearing of the sentinel at the door of the guardhouse, and after they were through, Arnold, 'with a significant look, asked the sentinel if he knew his duty, to which the latter gave an affirmative reply. After dark Hanyost made his escape from the guardhouse, the sentinel being cautions not to fire the alarm until the double traitor had time to get beyond the reach of pursuit. Then tlie alarm was given, the guard turned out in the pursuit, but without avail. All who were not in the seeret regretted that such an arrant villain should have escaped the just doom that awaited him. The life of his brother for this once caused Hanyost to be true to his country, and he fulfilled his contract to the letter. An Oneida Indian had also been let into the secret, who cheerfully embarked in the enterprise. Hanyost, who was acquainted with many of St. Leger's Indians, upon his arrival m their camp told a most piteous story of his having been taken by the rebels, and his escape from being hanged, and also showed them several holes through his coat, made by bullets, whieh, he said, were fired at him when he made his escape. Well acquainted with Indian character, he com municated his intelligence to them in a mysterious and imposing manner. When asked as to the number of men with Arnold, he shook his head, and pointed upward to the leaves of the trees ; and upon being farther questioned, he said the number of Arnold's men could not be less than 10,000. This news soon spread through the camps. At this juncture the Oneida arrived, and with a belt confirmed Hanyost's statement. On his way he had fallen in with two or three Oneida Indians of his acquaintance, who readily engaged in furthering his design, and these, dropping into the camp one after another, as if by accident, spoke of the great number of warriors marching against them. Tl.ey 350 ANNALS Or'oNEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. also stated that the Americans did not wish to injure the Indians, but if they continued with the British they must all share one common fate. By these means, alarm and con sternation were thoroughly spread among the whols body of Indians, and they resolved upon immediate flight. St. Leger did all in his power to prevent th^ir leaving at this critical juncture, but in vain. As a last resort, he tried to get them drunk, but the dram bottle had lost its charms, and they refused to drink. After he had failed in every attempt to induce them to remain, he tried to persuade them to fall into the rear, and form a covering party to his army, but this only increased their dissatisfaction, and they charged him with the design of sacrificing his red allies to the safety of the whites. In a mixture of rage and despair, St. Leger immediately ordered the siege to be raised, and with his entire force of regulars, tories, and Indians, he left in such haste as to leave his tents standing, abandoning all his artillery, and some aeeounts state that they left their dinners cooking over their camp fires. The Oneida Indian, it seems, had a spice of the wag in his composition, for he followed in the rear, and occasionally raised the cry, They are coming, they are coming, for his own diversion in seeing the red coats take a foot race, and the retreating army never felt entirely safe until fairly embarked on the Oneida Lake. Hanj-'ost kept with St. Leger's army on the retreat, until it arrived at the mouth of Wood Creek, when he returned to Fort Stanwix, and gave Col. Gansevoort the first intelligence of the approach of Gen. Arnold's eommand. From thence he returned to Fort Dayton, and having fulfilled, on his part, every part and parcel of the contract, his brother was at once discharged. His principles had, however, undergone no change ; he was still a tory, and, Balaam-like, soon after XIX.] ROME. 361 rejoined the British standard, attaching himself to the forces of Sir John Johnson. After the peace of 1783. Hanyost CAme back, and resided in the valley of the Mohawk. He was wdl knowu 'b^ some of the first settlers in Westmore land, and was represented by them as a low, coarse, and; apparently a very stupid being; The author, in February, 1797, when a few weeks more than seven years of age, passed over the Oriskany battle field. For nearly a mile the road ran through the scarred forest. Many of the trees, from, the ground to the height of twenty or thirty feet, were so perforated with balls, that they had the appearance of a building lately battered % a hail-storm. There -was then bnt^ about an acre of the battle field cleared, and that of quite a recent date. In the eleai^ ing stood a log house, and near the hoij^e stood the 8tiim.p of the beech tree beside whieh Gen. HerMmer received the fatal wound. From thence the author went to Fort Stan- ¦wix. the appearance of which 'was truly formidable. The cannon mounted on its angles, and the pickets then mostly standing, plainly spoke of the purpose for which it was erected. Many of the pickets were standing as late as '] S06. The accounts are discrepant as- to the day the siege was raised, some j^cing it on the 22d of August, and others on the SSth. Gen. Arnold immediately marched his di'vision to Fort Stan'wrx, and on Ms way be stopped on the Oriskany battle field, and buried the remains of the brave men whose corpses had been blackening in an August sun, from the 6tli tothe 25th ofthe month. Those only were buried that were lying in and contiguous to the road. On the first settlement of this section of the county, many skeletons were found yet bleaching and uncovered, and a number of the first set tlers met and gathered all that could be found, and undis- 362 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTV. [cHAP. tinguished between friend and foeman, they were interred in a common grave.* About the time Gen. Arnold's command proceeded to the relief of Fort Stanwix, several batteaux, loaded with pro visions for the garrison, passed up the river, with a com petent guard on the shore. As they approached the Oriskany battle ground, the stench was almost insupportable. Near the mouth of the Oriskany Creek, a gun was found standing against a tree, upon which were hanging a pair of boots, while in the creek near by lay the remains of their supposed owner, far advanced in decomposition. In the grass near the shore lay the body of a well-dressed man, without hat or coat, who they supposed had expended his latest energies in crawling to the water to quench his thirst. His head was bound up with a black silk handkerchief, which Sergeant John Clark, of the party, loosened, but left it with its owner. He, however, took from his shoes a pair'^Of silver buckles A little farther on, nine dead bodies were lying across the road, arranged in regular order, as was supposed, by the Indians after they had fallen. A short distance farther, an Indian was seen dangling from the limb of a tree, suspended by the heels with the tug strap of a harness from a baggage waggon ; this, it was conjectured, had been done by some of Gen. Herkimer's men, after their tawny foe had been killei 1. or severely wounded, in the contest. The failure of the expedition against Fort Stanwix was a a victory achieved in the cause of the United States. If allowed to speculate, suppose the fortress had capitulated, no stand could have been made this side of Albany; the * The party consisted of persons from Eome, Westmoreland, and Whitestown. JuSge Hathaway was the first to move in the enter prise, and a number of cart loads of bones were thus collected and interred. XlX.l ROME. 36S / Mohawk Valley would have been swept by Brant and his Indians, as with the besom of destruction ; the tomahawk, the scalping knife, and the firebrand would have left it with out a dwelling or an inhabitant. And if Burgoyne had been reinforced by such a force, surrounded as he was by forests and mountains, every foot of which was known to the sav ages, the issue might have been widely different, and slavery, instead of freedom, been the result. •'Nothing," says the British Annual Register for 1777, " oould have been more untoward in the present situation of affairs, than the unfortunate issue of this expedition. The Americans represented this and the affair at Bennington as great and glorious victories. Gansevoort and Willett, with Starke and Warner (heroes of Bennington), were, ranked among those who were considered the saviours of their coun- try." On the 19th of September and the 7th of October, two severe battles were fought at Saratoga ; although not de cisive, the advantage in each was with the Americans, and as a result, on the 16th of October Gen. Burgoyne surren dered his army to Gen. Gates. Gen. Sullivan was appointed to command the expedition against the Indians of Western New York in 1779, and the command of the eastern division of his army was assigned to Gen. James Clinton. The destruction of the Onondagas preceded the attaek of the concentrated forces on the Seneca and other western nations. Gen. Clinton detached Col. Van Schaick, assisted by Col. Willett and Major Cochran, with a force of about 500 men, for the service of destroying the Onondaga villages, and on the 19th of April, 1779, they left Fort Stanwix. The party encountered ^ainy weather. swollen streams, and morasses, yet moved with such celerity as to arrive at the Onondaga settlements the third day. For the p^trpose rf di^netin^ the attentioQ rf tie Indians. the party vas dirided into de*ailiiiinila.yiA .ri :rt to anaek r.makacasfrtAj as masy settkraenls as poaeiUfc The -^c-tz rf deetmetioB was Kor eonmssneed. and t*e Izj^bcba zi'£-iz. entiidy W siirpriae.fled so iHce^tatelr as t« lesre their gwB& and oth» 've^ons, in th«r 'w^wans. Their fiDages -were --x^n viapt in ftanes. garden- ywled. piwiauiBS de- Etnvyed. and eatde kiDed. In one d^ the Chtsoda^ -vere redneedfroB astaterfeom&rt and9eearitTto«Q« rfnaserr and famiafc housdem. and de^itate. The iaineB^ rf till; expedition wa^ most safaitary c:a Aoee rf the Oneida XatioB iHio were vaveting. for a depotatifln fimn the Oneidas s.t:4 Ti^eansas -vas n—ifidiatdy di^atdied to Fort ^tamriz. to bn^btoi tbe duin rf friesddup. and gfv-r itiuewed asorasee rf eontiming tme tn the States. Haring tL^:= aeeo-aplt^ied tise alije«ts rf the eir-e-dic^^. Cel Vi- Sefaa^ ictHined to Port Stamnz, vi&Dc-. tie las rf a ;iii2l-r aaan. In O-sto'-rT. 17H>. S J Joki J:L:l=::i ini Br^z: eoDeet^ ^l:i S7ia- aeeiesr. at La CAioL- on tise ^bnd cf MoBtieal a motley c-^nd cf abont 1.2 United States. ? So named from a vest of that color presented to him by tlio Britisib, and which was worn by hira on al! great oecasiori?. ¦ XIX. j KOME. 371 A reminiscence of Gen. Stanwix, who erected, and from whom the fort of whieh we have been speaking was named, — a name to which after-events in relation to its defence have attached so much importance, that "Stan-wix Hall" has been affixed to first class public houses both in Albany and Rome, — it is thought wiil be interesting to the reader. Gen. Stanwix was ap Irishman, and in 1766, in crossing the Irish channel from Ireland to England, 'with his family, the vessel on whieh they had embarked foundered, and every soul on board perished. The General left property, and there was an attempt to have its descent to collateral branches governed by the principles of the Roman law ; that is, that those in the meridian of life -would prima facie survive those of less powers of endurance, either from the tender years of youth, or the infirmities of ¦age. The Court of King's Bench, however, waived the decision, on account of the nicety of applying the rule to the case, and recom- niorded a compromise, which was acceded to. FIEST SETTLEMENT Op THE TOWK. The precise time when the first gettlers after the Revolu tion came to Rome, ean not be precisely ascertained. Jede diah Phelps, Esq., came into the county with Judge Dean, in 1784, and erected a shop for carrying on his trade, that of braes founder and silversmith, at Wood Creek, and after being " droumed aut " from that location ia the spring of 1785, settled at Fort Stanwix. A few flther settlers pro bably came there at about the same time. In the years 1785 and 1786 five log houses were erected in the vicinity of the fort. The author has frequently heaprd it stated by his father, that -when be arrived, in JsnuaTy, 1787, there 372 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. were three log houses at old Fort Schuyler, seven at Whites boro, three at Oriskany, five at Fort Stanwix, and three in Westmoreland, and that these twenty-one houses, a portion of which were little more than huts, then sheltered the whole white population in what is now Oneida County, and indeed in the whole of the State of New York west of Utica, a few traders with the Indians excepted. During the administration of the elder Adams, a company of " the standing army," commanded by Capt. Cherry, was quartered in the octagon block-house in Fort Stanwix. This block-house was built subsequently to the Revolution, and previous to Jay's treaty. It is believed it was built in 1795 or 1796, when much alarm was felt through the country from the hostile attitude of the western Indians. Among the early settlers of Rome, and prominent men prior to 1800, were John Barnard, George Huntington, Joshua Hathaway, Dr. Stephen White, Henry Huntington. Rozel Fellows, Matthew Brown, Bill Smith, Seth Ranney. Matthew Brown, Jan., David Brown, Ebenezer, Daniel W., and Thomas Wright, Thomas Selden, Solomon and John Williams, Peter Colt, Col. William Colbrath, Abijah and Clark Putnam, Caleb Reynolds, Rufus Easton, Thomas Gilbert, Moses Fish, Stephen Lampman, Jeremiah Steves and John Niles, all of whom, with one or two exceptions. are now deceased. In the spring of 1793 John Barnard kept a tavern a few rods north-east from the present site of the Court House. In the latter .part of April, or fore part of May, Mr. George Huntington arrived with , a small assortment of goods, and for the want of better accommodations, he put them up for the benefit of customers in Barnard!s bar room. This was the first store in Rome. The .building thus occupied as a tavern and store was the first two-story building erected in Xix] ROMi "*" 37§ Rome, and was built by Seth Ranney. In-the course of the season Mr. Huntington' put up a small one-story framed building, into which he removed his goods. Henry Hun tington, his brother and partner, resided in New York until 1798, when he removed to Rome. -The first store built by Mr. G. Huntington stood on James street, just north of the Merrill's Block. About the first of August, 1799, Thomas Walker 'started the first printing press in Rome, in this same first store. He printed a weekly paper, entitled the Columbian Gazette, for Eaton and Walker, proprietors. The oldest buildings now standing in Rome, are the early residences of Messrs. H. and G. Huntington; on Dominick, east of James street, and the plow factory (formerly Mc Carthy's store) on the corner of Dominick and Washington streets. The first grist mill in Rome was erected in 1795, and stood on Wood Creek, a few rods northerly from the United States' Arsenal. Its location for "custom work'' iriust have been excellent, for in 1796 or 1797 a batteau loaded with corn arrived at this mill, having threaded its way from Ontario County, down the Seneca River to Three River Point, thenee up the Oneida River and the Oneida Lake to Wood Creek, up that stream through all its windings and turnings twenty-five miles to the mill. After getting their "grist ground," the same devious track had to be followed' on their return ; but as perseverance accomplishes all things, in due time, and without accident, they arrived at their homes, much to the joy of their families and friends, who were famishing for "lack of bread." Dr. Stephen White kept a tavern, in 1797, at the lower landing on the Mohawk, and near where the old canal was locked into the river. His house was opposite the pre- 374 AKKALS OF ONEIDA COUXTY. [CHAr- sent residence of Matthew Huntington, then the residence of Col. William Colbrath. Cicero Gould and brother kept a tayern in the building (since mostly rebuilt) now occupied by Col. Henry A- Poster. Thomas Gilbert kept a tavern at the lower landing on Wood Creek, at its confiuence with Canada Creek. Previous to 1800 a man by the name of Logan kept, as a hotel, the large three-story wooden building on the north west corner of James and Dominick streets. This building was burnt at the "great fire,'' and is succeeded by the four- fctpry brick building known as the "American." By an act passed March 30, 1792, it was enacted, — '' That there shall be established two companies of stockholders, one for the purpose of opening a lock navigation from the now navigable part of Hudson's River, to be extended to Lake Ontario and to the Seneca Lake, and to be called and known by the name of ' The President, Directors, and Company of the Western Inland Lock Navigation, in the State of New York,' and the other for like purpose with respect to north ern parts of the Hudson, &c., &c. The Commissioners for distributing stock were, Samuel Jones, David Gelston, Com fort Sands, Melancton Smith, and Nicholas Hoffman, of New York ; and Abraham Ten Broeck, John Taylor, Philip S. Van Rensselaer, Cornelius Glen, and John Ten Broeck. " The first Directors were, Philip Schuyler, Leonard Gansevoort, Jeremiah Van Rensselaer, Elkanah Watson, John Taylor, Jellis A. Fonda, William North, Goldsbrow Banyar, Daniel Hale, John Watts, Walter Livingston, Dominick Lynch, James Watson, Matthew Clarkson, Ezra L'Hommedieu, Melancton Smith, David Gelston, Stephen Lush, Cornelius Glen, Silas Talbot, John Frey, Douw Fonda. John Sanders, Nicholas J. Rossevelt, Daniel McCor- XI.X.] ' uoat. 375 raick, Marinus AVillett, Jonathan Lawrence, Philip . Van Cortlandt, and James Clinton. " The waters between Schenectady and Wood Creek ^-ere to be made navigable within five years afteir January let, 1 793, and to Jse completed down Wood Creek to Lake On tario and Seneca Lake, within fifteen years from the same date. The State paid to each coinpany, as a 'free gift;' 8 12.500 when each had expended ^25,000. " ' The Western Inland Lock Navigation Company ' com pleted a canal connecting the navigable waters of Mohawk River and Wood Creek, at Rome, in 1797 ; it was two miles in length, and of a capacity for Durham boats of forty tons burthen ; it had locks built of brick, at the east and west I'nds, and its water was from the Mohawk by a feeder at the centre ; its course passed the southerly margin of the vil lage.'' — Western Enquirer. The brick locks, it seems, did not answer the purpose, and they were shortly afterwards rebuilt with more substantia! materials. The bricks of whicli they were first constructed were very large, and the first Court House at Rome was constructed of them. Since the Court House was burned in 1848, these same bricks are again reused for the walls of a handsome dwelling at the corner of George and Court streets. The following particulars respecting this canal are con densed from a notice of it in the first edition of Spaffbrd'a Gazetteer qf New York, published' in 1819. " The canal is led by a lateral eut from the Mohawk, which entered it nearly a mile west of the river. It had a lock of ten feet at the eastern, and another of eight feet at the westem ter minations. There were also four locks, respectively of four, fiix, seven, and eight feet, upon Wood Creek, within five jnUes of Rome, which were made by fhrov^ing dams across 376 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [feHAP. the stream. Battpaux, carrying from three to fifteen tons, drawing two feet of water, could pass, but in dry season.-* with some difficulty. About 1812 it was estimated that 300 boats, with 1,500 tons of merchandise, &c., went through this canal annually. The canal at Little Falls [Rockton] was completed in 1795-" These stupendous enterprises, for that period, were greatly indebted to the wisdom and energy of Gen- Schuyler, who was President of the Company by which they were constructed. "The average freights iu 1812 from New York to Oswego, per hundred weight, were, — to Albany, 30 cents ; to Schenectady, 16 cents ; to Utica, 75 cents ; and to Oswego, § 1 25, or $2 40 per cwt. through, which included lockage, portage money, &c-. But the pro ject of a Great Western Canal, to connect Lake Erie and the Hudson by a boat navigation, is now a principal topit- in this State. Commissioners have examined the country. and have reported in favor of the project, but on a plan which to my [Spafford's] apprehension is generally imprac ticable. The object is certainly a desideratum of vast im portance, and the magnitude of the undertaking is warranted by the ample means at our disposal. But the object is, or ought to be, a national one. and Congress will probably be induced to lend efficient aid whenever its practicability shall, be satisfactorily demonstrated to that body." Such doc trines sound strangely in this "day and generation.'' Peter Colt superintended the construction of the old canal. An anecdote which went the rounds of the papers at the time, may not be entirely uninteresting. Then, as now, canals were mainly constructed by Irish laborers. As Mr. Colt was passing through a company of these laborers one day, for some real or supposed offence or delinquency, he gave one of them a smart kick on his rear exposure. The man instantly let go his barrow, and while with his left hand xix] ROME 37? rubbing the seat of attack, with his right very respectfully raised his hat, and rolling the quid in his mouth, and with a peculiar knowing twinkle of tho oyo, said, in tho richest Irish brogue, ''.Path and by Jassus, if yor honor kicks so while vero a coulf, what'U yo do when ye got to be a horse?" George Huntington -was continuous Collector and Peter Jlolt Superintendent for the Western Inland Lock Naviga tion Company until the oompletion of the Erie Canal There is extant a copy of tho finding of a body of freehold ers of Herkimer County, suniraoned by William Colbrath, sheriffof said county, dated Xovember. 1797, in which thoy a.-;soss to tho proprietors of ''tho Expense Lot," for fourteen acres of land, taken by tho Wosteni Inland Lock Naviga tion Company, upon which to excavate thoir canal. Damages !? 100 and costs of appraisal. In the second 'war for indepondonoo. declared in 18 1-. Rome had not quite lost -'tho fire of the flint" of the '-days that tried men's souls." When o;illed upon, it again and again furnished its quota of mon for the defence of the northern frontier. Major Samuel Dill, of tliis town, was at Saeketts Harbor in the first detachment under Col. Bellin ger, in Ii'i '2. When the downfiill of Napoleon on the field of Waterloo had left no other ononiy to haughty Britain than the United States, when Wellington's hitherto invin- lilile regiments wore pouring into Canada, in that darkest period of the war. Governor Tompkins, unsolicited, appointed Joshua Ilath.away Quarter Master (Toneral of the New York State Militia, and ordered him to Saeketts Harbor. "When he arrived at that post, it was under tho command of tho liero of Oswego, Col, Mitchell, of the regular artillery, who immediately tendered to him the command, as senior officer This was at first modestly declined, but on Col. Mitchell's 378 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAF. earnestly insisting, with the most cordial assurances of his good will, counsel, and co-operation, it was accepted. In the fall of this year the Oneida County Militia were called to Saeketts Harbor, en masse, and the 157th regiment, usually known as the Rome regiment, commanded by Col. John Westcott, embodied and marched to that post. Among its officers were Lieut.-Col. Joshua G. Green, Captains Rudd, Fillmore, Church, Grannis, Hinckley, and Peck, (perhaps bome of these were there previously, in the detached militia.) Staff; Adjutant Samuel Beardsley, Payniaster Jay Hatha way, Surgeon Henry H. Smith. In a. truthful narrative of the events of that period, the historian is compelled to record the fact, that there were individuals of high standing, who would attend the military- parade's vrhen drafts were called for, and harangue the men when under arms, denouncing the war as wicked, and all those who volunteered their services as murderers. The United States' Arsenal, magazine, workshops, and othcers' quarters at this place, were erected in 1813. The work was superintended by Major James Dalliba, of the Ordnance Department. A State Arsenal, built of brick, previous to 1810, stood on the site now occupied by St. Peter's (Catholic) Church. It was accidentally destroyed by fire, with its contents, a few j^ears since. On the 4th of July, 1817, the ground was first broken in the construction of the Brie Canal. This Was done with appropriate public ceremonies, and the place selected was a few rods west of the United States' Arsenal, and the honor of casting the first shovel of earth was assigned to the late Hon. Joshua Hathaway. AVood Creek flows into the canal at this point, and the surplus water passes off by a waste weir over its old channel, following which about three-fourth .s of a mile, it receives Mud Creek, a small mill stream, from XDt.] HOME. ' 379 the south-west, and about the same distance below is the remains of Fort Bull. The Erie Canal from Montezuma to Utica was so far completed as to be navigable in 1 820. Bela B. Hyde was the first collector, appointed at Rome, and held the office for eighteen successive years. The first tolls were paid by Col. John Westcott, upon a raft of timber. The Erie Canal on its first construction through Rome, passed about half a mile south of the village, but this was a departure from the uniform course pursued by the State in the location of its ])ublic works. In every other instance it is believed the canal was located, as far as consistent with the public in terest, so as to save capital already invested, while at this point a different policy or course was pursued. The canal located half a mile from the village was far more expensive in its construction than if laid in the bed of the old canal through the village. No very satisfactory reasons have cver been adduced for such a location, and it was certainly very disastrous to the village, and for eighteen years ikept it behind the other villages upon the line of the canal. At the time of its construction, it was said the Western Inland Lock Navigation Company asked such an exorbitant price for their canal, that it 'ivas thought cheaper to make a new one than to buy it. Others suspected that an assistant engineer was interested in testing the practicability of con structing canals through a muck swamp, as he owned land of that description in another county, which would be greatly benefitted if canal making in such grounds proved success ful. Be tbat as it may, all the advantage which Rome de rived from the canal for the above term of time was very limited, although it is true that a storehouse and' a little cluster, of cheap buildings, mostly built upon piles, sprang up in the swamp. In point of durability, the latter just 380 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. answered their end, for when the location of the enlarged canal was changed through the village, these buildings had lived out their day, and their owners experienced very littlo loss.. The change of location, which was in 1844, gave a new impulse to the business of the place. This noT^ forsaken channel, however, still answers a valuable purpose as a drain for the " swamp." Several hun dred acres, originally covered with. a dense growth of pine. cedar, and black ash, have lately been cleared, and are found so dry that the alluvial soil is very valuable for agricultural purposes. The Syracuse and Utica Railroad passes through the southerly part of the village, crossing the Mohawk and Erie Canal upon wooden bridges. The depot is a substantial stone building, 225 feet in length. This road was chartered in 1836, and its construction has added materially to the prosperity of Rome. The Rome and Watertown Railroad, now constructing, makes its junction with the Syracuse and Utica Railroad a few rods westerly from the depot. Ex tensive buildings are alxiut to be erected near the junction. The Black River Canal passes in a southerly direction through the easterly part of the village. This work has progressed very slowly. From the disordered situation of the State finances in 1842, all public works for a time were suspended, but a better state of things has enabled the State to resume its public works, and this canal is in such a state of forwardness, that it became navigable to the Black River in the spring of 1850. The capitalists of Rome, aided by the inhabitants of the different sections of country interested, have, with a laudable ambition, converted all the important highways leading to the village into plank roads. . Those from Rome to Oswego, from Rome to Taberg, from Rome to Turin, and from Rome SIX.] EOME. ?81 to Western and Boonville, are already constructed, while one from Rome to Hamilton is in the course of construction. The Rome Academy, an incorporated institution, occupies a handsome three-story structure, built by subscription in 1848, upon a beautiful and prominent location on the public square, on the north side of ^Court street, and west of the Court House and James street. Ijt is under the charge of a board of trustees, who have power to fill all vacancies in their number. Rev. S. R. Brown, some time missionary in China, is its principal, and the female department is under the care of Miss Sabina Jennings, late of Mount Holyoke Seminary. For an institution so recently estab lished, it is in a very prosperous condition, now numbering about 200 students, with a juvenile department attached. The common schools of Rome have claimed the attention of its prominent citizens, and are not behind those of any section of the county.* The village contains 500 dwelling houses, some of them very elegant structures, and pre-eminent aniong whieh is that of Mr. Edward Huntington, on Liberty street, which is of brick, finely stuccoed and shaded, in imitation of stone. It also contains forty stores and sixty mechanic shops." The principal public houses are the American, Northern, and Railroad Hotels, Stanwix Hall, Tremont House, Willett House, and Seymour House, The Bank of Rome and Fort Stanwix Bank are each doing an extensive and profitable business. The Rome; Exchange Bank has been established within the present summer (1851). ? Since the foregoing was penned, a, ncw era has commenced in the common schools in the village . A new school house has been erected, of brick, seventy feet by fifty, two stories high,, calculated to accommodat« 400 scholars, and located upon a large lot in a kandsome and convenient position, at an expense of about $ 7,000. 38-2 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAF. The natural advantages of Rome as a place of business, are good, and its location central. The carrying place from. the Mohawk to Wood Creek in the olden time, the old canal making an uninterrupted water navigation from New York to the Ontario, Cayuga, and Seneca Lakes, the elevated dry gravelly plain, so firm and suitable for building ground, tho excellence of its water, and its contiguity to the fore-men tioned streams for hydraulic purposes, all seemed to point ,to this location as one for a place of extensive business. Its , growth, however, for the first half century after its perma nent settlement, was far short of public expectation, and for this there were a number of causes. A prominent one was in the fact, that the owners of the soil refused to sell the fee simple of the building lots. Enterprising business men, locating themselves in a new country, generally possess too much of.the spirit of independence, too much of the feeling of " anti-rentism," to willingly impose on their posterity the burthen of an annual stipend to the landholder. The loca tion of the Seneca turnpike, some ten miles south of Rome, and intersecting the Mohawk at Utica, soon caused a riyal, without a tythe of its natural advantages, to grow up and outstrip it. And then the unkind and unjust first location of the Erie Canal, ag before mentioned, added to the fact that the energies and ambition of the people had become too dormant, left this place with but a very tardy progress. The construction of the Syracuse and Utica Railroad, the change of the route of the Erie Canal, and the construction of the Black River Canal, roused the Romans to burst "the shell" which had so long encased them, and their now flou rishing and prosperous place, with its improvements, its plank roads, and business facilities, give unerring evidence of th« pufolio spirit of its capitalists, and the enlightened energies of its people 5 and with its but few yeara of prosperity, it XIX.] ROME. • 383 even now claims a reserved stock of public spirit and am bition, with a basis, it is believed, of sound advantages, which, when events shall ripen, and the S.tate. Capitol, in search of a new location, shall " westward take its way,'' will then show their mettle in the strife with Utica and Syracuse ; "till when, it bides its time," Two fires in the village, the first burning quite a portion of the business portion on the south side of Dominick street, and the "great fire," which occurred January 6th, 1846, sweeping all the buildings on the north side of Dominick street, from the Bank of Rome on the west to James street, and up that to Stone Alley, have very materially added to the beauty of the place. In the brief space of three years from their occurrence, the whole of the burnt districts were rebuilt with good substantial brick buildings, and on the sito of the latter fire it is believed few finer or more uniform blocks of its extent can be found in central New York. In one instance thousands now regret that the ruthless hand of improvement had not been stayed. The noble fort, built on the strictest scientific rules, and round which so many rich reminiscences centre, has been razed, and not one portion of it left to mark its locality. It was an exception to every bther fortification in the " Old Thirteen," fbr it was never taken, and no enemy ever entered within its ramparts. For a pleasure ground, its location was most admirable, and planted with forest trees and shrubbery, no park in the State could have vied with it. On ^the south and east lay the finest alluvial meadows,'through which the silvery Mo hawk, " o'er its numerous rifts," wends its way, while equi distant between the river and the fort,, meanders Spring Brook, " cold as winter's ice," in which in former times gambolled "nature's best," the speckled trout ; while on tbe north and west, for at least two miles, extends a level plateau, 384 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP- than which, for town or city, no finer site exists. If it had been spared, so long as the stars and stripes float over a nation of freemen, so long as the remembrance of the times which "tried men's souls" is cherished, so long each suc ceeding year would have increased the interest in a spot so rich in revolutionary lore. All now left for the historian is to speak of it as '- among the things that were," and as far as possible preserve the identity of its location. The residence of John Stryker, Esq., stands where stood the north-east corner or bastion, on the south-east that of Virgil Draper, on the south-west that of Alva Mudge, and on the north-west that of D. B. Prince. The large elm tree standing at the west end of the dwelling of Alva Mudge, in 1804 was a small ten foot sap ling, growing on the west scarp, just below the top of the rampart It has fared better with Fort Bull, for time has effected &1! the changes wrought upon it. It is a fort in miniatu.-t. compared with Fort Stanwix, yet a very handsome and regularly formed work. It is near a farm house owned by Simon Matteson, and the area within its walls is occupied an a garden. Pickaxes, gun barrels, hatchets, knives, flint arrow-heads, flints, pieces of crockery, etc., are occasionally plowed up -within the fort and in its vicinity. In a com mendable spirit, Mr. JIatteson says, that so long as he own!? the farm, the fort shall remain as it is. In building a barn a few years since, he used for one of the posts a stick of timber found in the bed of Wood Creek, and which belonged to the dam thrown across it at the time of the construction of the fort. It was entirely sound, "and just as good as new.'' The public buildings in Rome are the United States' Ar senal, €ourt House, Jail, Academy, Presbyterian, Baptist, XiX.] ROME. 385 Episcopal, Methodist, Irish Roman Catholic (St, Peter's), Dutch Roman Catholic, Welsh Methodist, and Lutheran Churches. There are two printing offices, from each of whieh issues a weekly paper,- — The Rome Sentinel (Democratic), and the Roman Citizen (Whig). In the town are twelve saw mills, carried by water, three steam saw mills, two furnaces,- one grist and flouring mill, one plaster mill, one steam planing machine, one woolen factory, two breweries, a stone ware manufactory, and a ship tackle block factory. The county poorhouse is in this town, about two miles south-west of the village. There are several Lodges of Odd Fellows in the village, which occupy a handsomely furnished hall on James street. There is also a flourishing Division of the Sons of Tem perance, The Court House and Jail, just completed by the county, occupy the site of the former ones, which were destroyed by fire some three years since. They are of brick, except the cells, which are of large slabs of limestone. These buildings, in style and finish, are considered as models, worthy the central county ofthe Empire State. There is nothing in the geology' of this town of particular interest, other than already noticed. On the southerly line of the town is a quarry of freestone, particularly noticed ip the history of Westmoreland (Chap. XXVIII). On the north line of the town the banks of the Mohawk and Gulf Brook show large masses of shale. Bowlders are occasion ally met with. The surface ef the village plat, and for a considerable distance north and east, was originally almost covered with cobble stones, many of which exhibit numerous petrifactions. In excavating the canal through the swamp, clam shells 25 386- APfJTALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. of a large size, charcoal, and ashes, were found imbedded eight feet below the surface. Fish Creek, which forms the western boundary of the town, is here large and rapid, and was formerly well stocked with trout, and from May to July it amply supplied the Rome market with the finest salmon, speared and brought in bythe Oneida Indians. As late as 1800 salmon were so plenty, that from three to four cents per pound was a fair price, and many were bought of the Indians for a pint to a quart of rum per salmon. They sometimes brought them in baskets on their backs, and when extra plenty, the Indian ponies were used as pack-horses, on which the fish were somewhat fantastically, and quite ingeniously, bound with bark, the back and sides of the beast having been previously covered with branches of the large-leafed basswood sapling. The following public officers have been elected or ap pointed from among the former or present citizens of Rome : — two Supreme Court Judges, three Supreme Court Com missioners, sis County Judges, two Sheriffs, four Surrogates. one United States' Senator, one Member of Congress, sis Members of Assembly, two State Senators, five County Treasurers, one Chief Engineer of the Erie Canal, one do, of the Black River Canal, and one Captain of the United States' Army. The first postmaster in the place was Mat thew Brown, jun. John Barnard, who has been mentioned as an innkeeper and business-man in the early days of Rome, yet survives, at a very advanced age, in Lima, Livingston County. Jede diah Phelps, Esq., also named as an early settler, has for many years resided in Albion, Orleans County. About two years since, the author wrote to him for some of his recol lections of the early history of Oneida County. The an swer came in another hand, but age had so impaired his XIX,] ROME. 387 memory, that nothing of interest was elicited. At the bottom rf the letter, in very fair and legible ©haraeters, was- the following, in his own hand : — " I am, dear Sir, very respectfuUy yours, " Jedediah Phelps. "My age is 95."* Sergeant John Dowlee, of the artillery, was long in the garrison of Fort Stanwix, and was in it when it sustained the siege by St, tyger. He also went out with the party nnder Col. WiUett, and was at the taking of Sir John John son's camp. He said the surprise of the Indians' and tories was as perfect, as was that of Gpen. Herkimer at Oriskany,. as they had nc picket-guard out, and were engaged in making fires and cooking their rations. It will be recollected that Johnson's camp was at the landing, about half a mile below the fort. When the attack was- made, the tories attempted to ford or swim the river, and were shot down by scores while in the river, and those who reached the shore fied for their lives. Sergeant Dowlee was of the opinion that a portion of Johnson's men had returned from the Oriskany battle before their camp was stormed. He declared " they were a bloody, villanous looking set." He was the only officer who settled in the vicinity of the work he had so long assisted in defending, and where he and his comrades had so signally punished the Indians and tories for the Oriskany butchery. He lived to a good old age. The following epitaph, copied from: the monument over his remains, contains so much of the history of one of Rome's prominent citizens, that i-t is inserted ; — * Since deceased. 388 ANNALS or -ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAF, "In memory of the Hon. Joshua Hathaway, more than forty years a resident of this town. He was born in Suffield, Ct, Aug. 13, 1761 ; graduated at Yale College in 1787, and died at Kome, Dec. Sth, 1836. ' Eequiescat in pace.' As a husband and father, ever worthy, loved, and venerated. As a man and Christian, up right and exemplary ; a friend to the needy and injured ; and a father in the Church. As a magistrate and judge, by the grace of God, an executor of justice, and maintainer ofthe truth, ' a terror to evil doers, and praise to such as did well.' As a patriot, he bore arms in two wars for his country, and sustained at all times the cause ofthe people with zeal and fidelity. As a citizen, ever active and enterprising for the benefit of our common country, and among the foremost for the improvement of this favored portion of it. To him was assigned the honor of breaking ground on commencing that great and beneficial work, the Erie Canal, July 4, 1817. In the various relations of life he fulfilled its duties as in the fear of God, with faithfulness, ability, and honesty of purpose. He died lament ed. ' Tlie memory of the just is blessed.' " Judge Hathaway's father, himself, and six brothers, were under Gen. Stark at the Bennington battle, which victory was the first link in the chain of events, and the flight of St. Leger from before Fort Stanwix the second, which led to the capture of Burgoyne ;- the capture of Burgoyne laid the foundation for a treaty of alliance with France, and without the aid of the French land and naval forces, Washington could not have forced the capitulation of Cornwallis, which in fact achieved the independence of the United States. The following inscription is also copied from a monument in the village cemetery : — " To the memory of Capt. Samuel Perkins, who departed this life at the United States' Arsenal, Kome, Dec. 30, 1837, in the 75th year of his age. He entered the service of his country during the Wair of the Kevolution, when he was but 14 years old, and served till it-s independence was gained. He was actively engaged In the Indian XIX.] EOME. 389 campaign of 1795, under Gen. 'Wayne. He'also participated in, and rendered valuable services during the late war with Great Britain. After which, retiring from active duties, he held for 18 years tho station of ordnance keeper, and died in the public service. In every situation of his life was remarkably exemplified that just sentiment, — ' An honest man is the noblest work of God.' " George Huntington, mentioned as the first merchant, spent the remainder of his days in the village. He was a man of great excellence of character. His personal appear ance was very fine, and did not escape the observation of his aboriginal neighbors, the Oneidas, for they gave him for a name A-i-o, in their language, "handsome." He died September 23, 1841, aged 71 years. Henry Huntington, brother, and for many years partner in m-any of their business transactions, of George, came tn this place, as has been stated, in 1798, and selected it as u home for the remainder of his life. He was a man of great worth. The mercantile firm of Henry and George Hun tington was uniformly noted for the integrity of its entire business transactions. The utmost harmony prevailed be tween the brothers, and for years after they had retired from mercantile business, they used to meet in the morning in their former counting room, and smoke their long pipes in company. For a large portion of their lives they were an tagonistic in their political preferences, and if the different parties had their bickerings, they had none. They were very successful in all their business transactions, and each had acquired a large fortune. Henry was, from the time of its charter, in 1812, to the time of his decease. President of the Utica Bank, and was considered the wealthiest man iu the county. He died October 15, 1846, aged 80 years. 390 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. The First Congregational Church of Rome was formed September 25, 1800, and consisted of eleven members. The Rev. Simon Waterman, of Plymouth, Conn., was present, and officiated at its organization. Its first pastor was the Rev. Moses Gillett, a graduate of Yale College, who came to Rome and commenced his labors in 1806, and was ordained and installed over this church in October, 1807. At that time the church consisted of thirty members. Mr. Gillett continued his labors until October, 1837, thirty years from his ordination. During all this time he so devoted himself to his work in the ministry, and with a singleness and effec tiveness of purpose, that the inspired eulogy of Barnabas well applied to him : " He was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost, and of faith, and much people was added unto the Lord." There were added to the church during his ministry, 807 members, 1 03 by letter and 704 by profession ; of these, 184 were added March 12, 1826, as the fruits of the "great revival" which occurred in connection with the labors of the Rev. Charles G. Finney, and the influence of which spread over an extensive region, but was probably more strongly marked in this vicinity than elsewhere. The influences of this revival have been likened to the 'Waves formed by casting a pebble upon a sheet of water, pressing forward, wave forming wave, until they strike the farthest shore ; so many of the inhabitants of the western prairies, and granite-bound New England, yet bless God that they lived in "these days," Subsequently to this period, the church continued harmonious and prosperous, and receiving accessions, so that in 1831, at the formation of the Second Church, it numbered over 500 members. XIX.] ROME. 39 1 After Mr, Gillett's . resignation, in 1837, the Rev, Messrs. D. Clary, B. W. Dwight, and E. 0, Dunning, each for a brief period preached to this people. In 1841 the Rev, Selden Haynes was installed pastor, and held that place until dismissed from his charge, June 30, 1346, He was a successful pastor, for during his labors 130 were added to the Chureh. The First and Second Churches were reunited, June 8, 1847. The Rev, Messrs. George C. Lucas, George Bush nell, and W. F. Williams supplied the pulpit two years. In May, 1848, the present pastor, the Rev. William E. Knox, commenced his labors with the church, and was installed on the 2d of August following. Since his installation, there have been accessions of seventy-six members. Up to the present time (1850) great harmony prevails, the pastor, church, and congregation, being happily united. The large and increasing numbers who attend stated worship are straitened for accommodations in their present house, and it is already designed in 1 85 1 to erect a new building, in size and style equal to the wants of the congregation, and to correspond with the newly-erected public buildings of the place. Second Congregational Church. — In the latter part of the year 1 830, the First Church then containing over 500 members, it was thought advisable, by a respectable por tion of them, to form a second church. On their appli cation for that purpose to the Oneida Presbytery, January 11, 1831, their request was granted, and the next day they were formally organized as a church by a committee of that body. At the time of organization fifty-eight persons offered to become members, but as the number was soon increased to eighty-six, this latter number may be considered as its number at its commencement. 392 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. From this time until July following, the desk was supplied by the Rev. Messrs. Erastus Nichols, Daniel Nash, and John Waters, and their brief labors were blessed to the church. In July, 1831, the Rev. Jacob Helfeustine entered upon the duties of pastor, and continued them for two years. In this time 160 were added by profession, and eighteen by letter. The next pastor was the Rev. Avelyn Sedgwick, who re mained three years, during which thirty-nine were added by profession, and fourteen by letter. From the dismissal of Mr. Sedgwick, in September, 1836, to June 8, 1847, the time of the union of the two churches, the following clergy men preached to this people, viz. r — C. Edwards Lester^ Theodore Spencer, Herman Norton, Henry H, Hurlburt, Benjamin H, Campbell, Orson Parker, Charles Jones, and George S, Boardman, Of these, only Messrs, Campbell and Jones were installed pastors, the others officiated as supplies from year to year. Rev. Mr, Spencer labored eighteen months, in which time twenty-two were added by profession. and twenty-seven by letter. Rev. Mr. Norton for one year, and five were added by profession, and six by letter. Rev. Mr. Campbell for eight months, and a few were added by letter. During the space between the dismissal of Mr. Campbell and the procurement of a successor, the Rev. Orson Parker labored as an evangelist for a few weeks in the month of November, 1840. A revival followed, and as its fruits about fifty were added by profession. Many pro minent individuals, heads of families and young people, were subjects of this revival, and since, by their consistent Christian deportment, have given evidence of the sincerity of their profession. Rev. Mr. Jones ministered to the church from July, 1841, until June, 1843, and in this period eighteen were added by profession, and twenty by letter. Rev. Mr, Boardman commenced his ministry soon after the XIX,] ROME. 393 dismissal of Mr. Jones, and continued three years, until June, 1845, during which,' ten were added by" profession, and fifteen by letter. Mr. Boardman was dismissed, as was Mr. Haynes, of the First Church, to further the reunion of the two churches, which took place June 8, 1847. . Baptist Church. — The records of this church commence as follows: — "In the summer and autumn of the year of our Lord 1817, several of the members of the different Baptist Churches residing in Rome and its vicinity, became impressed with the idea that it would promote the declara tive glory of God; the honor of the Redeemer's kingdom, and their own happiness, if God in his providence should so order, as to have a ehurch formed amongst them." A conference on the subject was notified and heid at the school house, in Wright's Settlement, town of Rome, October 23, 1817. "The result of the conference was, that there appeared to be ground to build upon, and material with which to build, without interfering with any other church ot society." "Wednesday, Nov. 19. — Met according to appointment, voted to send to Whitestown, Floyd, Trenton, and Western churches, for counsel. Elder Dyer Starks, being present, was invited to attend ; and that they meet at the house of Joseph Briggs on the 10th of December, at 10 o'clock A. M." "Dec. 10, 1817. — The conference met according to re quest, and after making inquiries sufficient to satisfy them selves, voted to give the brothers and sisters fellowship as a sister church, in token of which Elder Elon Galusha, in behalf of the council, gave the right hand of fellowship." The church thus constituted consisted of seventeen mem bers. 394 ASSALS OF ONEIDA COUNTT. [uHAP. Elder Bjer Starks* was its first pastor, and lie contmued his charge for several years. He was succeeded by Elders J^acobs and Dooglaas, who each preached for a short period. After this the church was so fortunate as to secure tbe services of Elder David 3Iorria. He was a - workman ap proved," and daring his pastorate the church and society were enlarged and strengthened. In August, 18'2G, a house of worship was commenced, and was completed the next year, and was -in ita day' a very neat edifice. Eld. Morr-Ls continned with them ten years, when he was dismissed. He was succeeded by Elder John Gibbs, and he by Elder Emerson Andrews, who was dismissed in 183§. The .-.arne year the present pastor, H. C. TogelL began to preach to thi--? people. He is highly esteemed by hia flock and the citizens generally, as the len;.th of time he has .unstained himself with them fully evineea Since he commer.eed hL-^ labors here, their house of worship has been greatly im proved as to appearance and convenience: The Church from its small b^;iiuuiigs, seventeen members, ha.s increased so that it now numbers 294 communicants, and a ^ar^- : society attends upon their stated worship. The ehurch con tributed 8300 daring the past year for missionary purpor-es. The Prdeslant Episcopal Church at Rome was organized and incorporated in 1625. by the name of -Zion's Church, Rome." The Rev. A S. Hollister was its first pastor : Jay Hathaway and Henry Hayden. wardens; Numa Lee nar 'i, Hiram Denio, H. N. Carr, J. B. Pvead, J. A Caofield, R. * Elder Starks lived to a great age. He had no relatives in tfce conntry. and for a number of fears after he bad become snpei^ ammated, was supported by the Oneida Baxrtist Associatioa. Af-.'-r his decease, the Association erected an appropriate bead-iione at his gravCj in the bmying grotui J in Kome. XIX,] HOME, 395^ Butler, and Peter White, vestry. The following 'Clergymen have at different periods, as rectors or in other capacities, had charge of the church, viz, : — M, A, Perry, Geo. Fiske, William W. Niles, J. Sunderiand, J. W. Woodward, N, B, Burgess, Hobart Williams, Henry Lockwood, 8, H, Battin, . Seth Davis, and Almon Gregory, The socjety now numbers fifty families, about 2i0O individuals, and sixty eommuni- cants. The Rev, Henry B, Whipple is the present pastor. Tli«ir house of worship stands on the south-west corner of Washington and Liberty streets, and was consecrated for divine service on the 15th of August, 1833, by the Right Rev. Bishop of the Diocese. In 1851 this society has nearly completed a new stone edifice on the north-east corner of the same streets, Methodist Episcopal Church. — A class is believed to have been formed in what is now called the " Adams Neigh borhood," as early as 1799, which continued in existence until a society was organized at the "Ridge," in 1803. It has not been ascertained at what time the meetings began to be held in the village. The society held its services in the Court House until 1828, at about which time the present church edifice was built. This church is in a flourishing condition, and reported at the last session of the Black RiVer Conference, 200 members. Tho present pastor is the Rev. James Erwin. During the year 1850 their house of worship was much improved. The author intends to make no invidious comparisons among- many other able and efficient ministers of this deno mination who have preached in Rome, by mentioning the name of the Rev, Mr, Ninde, who was stationed in charge of this people for a time. He was a faithful and eloquent preacher of tho New Testament, and one who, not only by '396 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. his public ministrations, but by his example and daily life, was peculiarly calculated to win souls. His praise was not only in all the churches of the Methodists, but in those of the different denominations in this place. His memory is held in " grateful remembrance " by them, for " the memory of the just is blessed,". His Master called for him ; he was ready, and entered into His rest, soon after he left this station, Welsh Church. — This society occupies the edifice formerly in the possession of the Second Congregational Church. The church was instituted in 1847, and numbers at this time about seventy members. In doctrine it is Calvinistic. and in form of government IMethodist Episoopal. Among the papers of the late Alexander Parkman, Esq., of Westmoreland, was found a Columbian Patriotic Gazette, of January 6, 1800, No, 23, a paper published at Rome, by Ebenezer Eaton and Thomas Walker, By a comparison with the papers published at this place at the present time, the great improvements in printing and typography in the last half century is most strikingly illustrated. Under the miscellaneous head, on the first page, is an article headed, "The Events of the French Revolution," giving a very concise account of the prominent events of that sanguinary and bloody struggle. There is a note at the bottom of the page giving, in a brief space, the particulars of the beheading of Louis XVI, and closes by saying, " Of the Members of the Convention who voted for the King's death, forty have been guillotined, six have killed themselves, four have been assassinated, two were found dead in the field, and one died in irons ; in less than four years after that unhappy event." The probable reason why the paper was preserved was, XIX.] EOME, 39 f that it contained an account of the funeral of Qien. Wash ington. It is from the account published in Georgetown, Maryland. The description thus closes: — "The sun was now setting. Alas ! the sun op glory was set for ever. No, the name of WASHINGTON, the American President and General, will triumph over death, the unclouded bright ness of his glory will illuminate future ages." The editorial is headed, " Columbia Mourns." The summary of "Domestic Occurrences" thus closes: — " A large number of respectable and wealthy gentlemen in the Counties of Montgomery and Herkimer, with the .co operation of like characters in Schenectady and Fort Schuy ler, have resolved on petitioning the Legislature, at their next session, to be formed into a corporation for the purpose of turnpiking the road from Schenectady to Fort Schuyler." If these respectable and wealthy men had been cautioned not to thus invest their capital, for possibly before their turnpike was half paid for from its tolls, a canal and rail road would be built along by the side of it, and within forty years, taking all the business from it, so that they would petition to abandon their charter ; would they not have at least looked somewhat incredulous ? There is a table giving the " State of the Thermometer, taken at Hamilton Oneida Atademy," for the last half of December, 1799, The table shows that there were eight cloudy days, three fair- days, one clear, one rainy, and one snowy day in the time. In the advertisements, Peter Colt informs the public that, on the 14th of December, 1799, he lost, between the store of Messrs, G, Huntington & Co., and his house, a newly-dressed calf skin, and a quire of writing paper, and tha* if the finder will return them to said store or his house, he sha.ll receive -a suitable reward, and his thanks. &98 ANNALS OF ONElDA COUMTY, [CHAP. The following is the "List of Letters remaining in the f'ost Office January 1st, 1800," It should be borne in miiid by the seader, that at that time the town of Western had no post office, which in 1800 included all of Lee ' and part of Annsville. It seems that Mr; Isaac Lockwood, of High Falls, Black River, had a letter advertised, also Mr, Stephen Wells, of Strickland, There was an attempt to have the~town of Redfield thus named from an early settler, but the land-owner, Redfield, prevailed in having his name affixed to the town, now so far- famed as the land of snow. It is therefore presumed, that if Mr, Wells ever had' the perusal of his letter, he had to come or send all the way from Bedfield for it. LIST OF LETTERS Remaining in the Post Offlce, Rome, January 1st, 1800. A, Isaac Alden, 2 Rome. B, Capt. John Bates, Rome ; Matthew Booman, do. ; 'William Burch, do. ; Mr. Burnam, do. ; James Brown, do; ; James Brown, Bridge- water ; Nathan Barlow, liVestem. c. James Corijish, 2 Rome. p: Robert Felton, Rome. G, Gideon Gilford, Rome ; James Gould, do. H. Gershcwn Hinckley, Rome ; David Harmon, Great Salmon River. J. Nahum Johnson, Home. K. Aaron King, Rome. -tix.] ROME. 399 L. Isaac Lathr(^, Rome ; Solomon Lord, do. ; Isaae lockwood, High Palls, Black River. M. Daniel Marshall, Rome. 0. Abraham Ogden, Rome ; William Olney, Western, P. Joseph Phips, 'Western, s. James Simpson, Rome, T. Samuel Tubles, Rome. w. Barritt 'West, Rome ; 'William 'Wentworth, do, ; Stephen 'Wells, Strick land ; Ezra Wheeler, Westem, Matthe-w Bbown, jmi,, P. M, The following obituaries are from the Rome Sentinel oi June 25, 1851 : — " Died, in Rome, June 17th, Capt. Ebenezer Weight, aged 72 years. " Capt. Wright was among the oldest settlers of the town. He came with his father in 1789, from Sharon, Conn., when there was but one framed house standing on the present site of this village. The family located themselves ou the north side of the river in the neighborhood, which from that time has been known as " Wright's Settlement." Capt. Wright became connected with the First Church in August, 1815, as did a large number of the most respectable in habitants of the town, the fruits of the powerful revival of that year. Since that he has remained a consistent and exemplary mem ber, and highly respected and beloved by all his numerous acquaint ance. After a somewhat protracted illness, which he bore with the most child-like acquiescence in God's will, and with a meekness and sweetness of manner which charmed all who visited him, and in the 400- ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAT. exercise of -a lively and most comforting hope to the rest which lie now enjoys with the saints in light." "Died, In Rome, on the 18th inst., Mr. Edward Potter, aged 9-3 years. " Mr. Potter was a British soldier under Burgoyne, but deserted from that standard in Canada, and came to this State, before General Burgoyne's arrival Avith the Army. Although he did not join the American army, he was ever through the war a friend to American liberty, which he lived to see established and to enjoy during a long life. AnnENDA. — While the writer was engaged in reading the proof sheet of the last form of Rome, he accidentally learned the following little reminiscence, which was deemed worth preserving. Captain Jesse Pierce, vi^ho kept a ferry across the Mohawk at the Simon's Farm, above the Ridge Mills, was appointed by Government, in 1789, to distribute to the people the arms and equipments left in Fort Stanwix, which duty he performed. They were a gift to said inhabitants for the defence of this frontier, and it is but a few years since some of these veteran fire-arms were still in the hands of their recipients. This was the first military appointment in the town. XX.] SA>-GERFIELD. 401 CHAPTER XX. SANGERFIELD. This town 'was originally known as Township No. Twenty, of the twenty townships laid out upon the west side of the L^nadilla River. Under a law of the Legislature passed February, 1789, it .was surveyed in the summer of that year. After the survey, and previous to its settlement, it was simply known to the land speculators df the day as Township No. 20, of the "twenty towns." At the time of the survey it was included in Whitestown, Montgomery County. In 1790 and 1791 it was purchased of the State upon speculation, chiefly by Michael Myers, Jedediah San ger, and John J. Morgan, and a considerable portion of it was subsequently leased in perpetuity, and much of it re mains on lease up to the present tima The following is a copy of the record in the case of Messrs. Myers, Sanger, and Morgan, upon their application for the purchase of Townships Nos. IS and 20, and part of No. 19, uow in the office of the Commissioners of the Land Office in Albany, under the law of March 22, 1791, for the sale of public land. Doc Hist, rf N. Y. VoL IQ, p. 1072. •' The application of Michael Myers, Jedediah Sanger, and John J. Morgan, for the purchase of Townships No. 18 and 2i), and the parts unsold by the Surveyor General of Township No. 19, being three of the Twenty Townships surveyed by the Surveyor General pursuant to an act passed the 25th day of February, 17g9. The two 26 402 ANNALS OF ONBIDA COUNTY, [CHAP. first Townships, to wit, Nos, 18 and 20, at the rate of three shillings and three pence por acre, and tiie parts of No, 19 unsold, as above mentioned, at the rate of three shillings and one penny per acre, one-sixth part thereof to be paid on the 1st day of October -next, and the residue in two equal paymeiits, the one-half on the 1st of April, 1792, and the remaining half on the 1st of January, 17'Jo, being read and duly considered. • (Accepted.) " Acres — 07,130 = £ 10,908 15 shillings." Upon the formation of Herkimer County, February 16, 1791, this township was included in that county, and in this year .the first step was taken towards its settlement. In the fall of this year, Zerah Phelps, then a residonJ of the " Green Woods," Massachusetts, and who had previously purchased lot No. 42 in this town, sent his hired man to build a house,. which was constructed of log.'i, and stood about twenty rods south-easterly from the present residence of Jesse 0 Mills, and about one mile in the same direction from the " Centre." The house was erected near a primitive elm, which is yet standing, and this was the first tenement erected for a settler in the town of Sangerfield. About the first of March, 1792, Minlerva Hale and wife, and Nathan Gurney and wife and infant, moved into the town from New Hartford, where they had previously resided one or two years. The first day of their journey they reached the house of Simon Hubbard, who lived on the place now occupied by his son Marinus Hubbard, in the town of Mar shall, where they remained over night. Their conveyances- were ox teams and sleds. On the next morning, the snov/ being very deep, they made short yokes for their oxen, and using their bed cords for traces, they drove them tandem,, and thus plowed their way to their new farm^. The distance from Mr. Hubbard's was but about four miles, but such was the almost impassable state of their route (for road they, had SX.] ' SANGERFIELD. ' 40S none), over hills and logs; across and through creeks, swamps, and, thickets, overlaid with at least foiur feet of snow, that it was .quite night before they Beached its . termination. Mr. Hale had purchased land adjoining the lot of Mr. Phelps, and Mr. Gurney had purchased lot No. 40, now in the vil lage- of Waterville, and a part of which is at present owned by Aaron Stafford, Esq., whose father, . Ichabod Stafiord, noticed as among the earliest settlers of Augusta, purchased of Gurney. They both, however, proceeded to the house of ill-. Phelps, who had moved into it only two or three days previously, and here they remained until they built houses for themselves. The three men, their wives, and Gurney's child, all occupied the same room, and for the best of reasons, it was the only one in the house, or in the town. In the month of April, when the heavy body of snow on the ground began to melt, their proximity to the creek be came a source of considerable annoyance. After a very warm day and night, for the season, upon awaking in the morning they found a portion of the craek had formed a current directly through the house. A sort of cellar had been dug, large enongh for present purposes, under the fioor in the centre of the room, of which the water had taken possession, and the pork barrel was merrily waltzing in the eddy. The women remained in bed while the men waded out and cut large logs,- on whieh to make a fire. During the remainder of the day, and until the water, subsided, the women performed all their house work- while upon their beds. Mr. Gurney immediately went towork npon his land, and was the first settler in Waterville. He built his house on the corner where Erastus Wilbur now resides; In the- month of April following, Benjaniiin White moved in, and: settled upon lots No* 39 and 40, the farm most of which. was owned and lately occupied by Amos Osborn, deceased. 404 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. During the same year, Phineas Owen and the father of Nathan Gurney settled on lot No. 40. In April and May of this year, Sylvanus Dyer, Asahel Bellows. Nathaniel Ford, Henry Knowlton, Jonathan Stratton, and a Mr. Clark, settled in the town. These were aU the families in the town in 1792. Nathaniel Ford assisted in surveying this township in 1789, and moved on to the lot selected at that time. Of the actual settlers, he was the first man that came into the town. He is yet living upon his original farm. A very heavy frost early in the fall of 1792, which entirely destroyed the corn crop, put an end to emigration until 1794. Even those already in the town made up their minds to remove, if the ensuing season should prove as unfavorable and disas trous. In the month of May in this year, a serious accident happened to Mr. Clark, who had taken up the lot lately -owned by Oliver Bobbins, deceased. It was a misfortune incident to the settlement of a new country, where a heavy forest has to be made to give way to agriculture. He had his leg badly broken and crushed by a falling tree ; this happened on Saturday afternoon. He was immediately taken to the house of Mr. Hale, which had but just been erected, and made as comfortable, for the time being, as circumstances would permit. As a surgeon was necessary, Mr. Hale started in quest of one, and rode the only horse in town, and that had but recently arrived on Mr. Clark's farm. He started by the light of a torch, which he carried, and his only guide as to the proper course, was the moss on the north sides of the trees. Early in the morning he arrived at Whitestown, but finding no physician there who dare perform amputa tion, he proceeded to old Fort Schuyler, where he found Dr. Guiteau, who returned -with him. This is supposed to have been Dr. Francis Guiteau, brother of the late Dr. Luther Guiteau, Senior, of Trenton. After examination, he did not XX.] SANGERFIELD. 405 wish to operate without the counsel and assistance of an older practitioner. Dr. Petrie, of Herkimer, was therefore sent for, and upon his arrival, on Tuesday, the two, with the assistance of Dr. Elmer, of Paris, amputated the limb. In the month of July in this year, Mrs. Zerah Phelps became the mother of a daughter, which was the first child born in the town. What formed a somewhat peculiar co incidence was, that Mr, Phelps, being so fond of. border life, afterwards left this place, and was one of the pioneers of the town of Batavia, Genesee County ; another daughter, bom there, was the first child born in that town. If Mrs. Phelps had happened to have lived under a like dispensation with the spouse of the Patriarch Abraham, perhaps we might yet hear that she was the mother of the first born of Wisconsin; Iowa, and Minnesota. Mr. Phelps was also a member of the first grand jury ever impanelled west of Genesee river. ' In the month of April, 1792, the town of Paris was organ ized, and township No. 20 was included within its boun daries. The year 1792 did not pass without its false alarms from the Indians. They were frequently seen, and sometimes in considerable numbers, while on their hunting and fishing expeditions from Oneida to the Unadilla. They had a well trodden trail, called the Oneida Path, which entered the town about two and a half mUes east of its north-west cor ner, and left it but a few rods west of its south-east corner. Mr. Phelps built his first house but a few rods from this path. Col. WiUett, when the conveyance was made to Mr. F-ord, remarked that he would give a warranty against every thipg but Indians ; those the purchaser must take care of himself. As yet, however, they had given the set tlers no cause for fear, still prudence dictated them to carefully cultivate their friendship. , 405 A>-NALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. One afternoon in the early part of October, aU the men in the town, eight in number, were • collected together, con structing a bridge over the Oriskany Creek, near where Bacon and Goodwin's woolen factory now stands. While thus engaged, they heard the hum of many voices, and a scout who was dispatched, soon reported that about 150 Indians, of all sizes, were passing on their path to the Unadilla, about 200 rods from where the men were. Mr. Hale, knowing that if nothing worse happened, his wife would be sadly frightened, started for his home, but did not arrive as soon as the Indians. Mrs. Phelps, who had just finished baking when she saw the Indians, left all but her infant, and ran to Mr. Hale's, and on her arrival. Mrs. Hale. who was equally frightened, proposed to run to the :aieE. Mrs. Phelps, however, objected to thi.s. on account of her being burthened with her infant, and at that moment they sa-w through the window a single Indian approaching the house. Mrs. Hale concluded that the two could conquer him, and if not, they would meet the worst as they best could. The Indian, who from his appearance she supposed to be the son of a chief, addressed her in the Indian dialect, which of course was not understood. Mrs. Hale, in haste to see the end of the matter, pale and frightened as she was. assumed an air of unconcern, and said, "If you want any thing, use plain language, and say what it ls : if I have it you shall have it." He immediately responded, " Bread." and was almost as soon supplied with all she had. Thf Indian took out of his belt of wampum a silver brooch, of the value perhaps of a shilling, and ofi'ered to pay for the bread, but this -was refused, and he was told it was given him. He left with a smile upon his &ee, and was soon with his comrades, who were in full possession of Mrs. Phelps' hornse, and a, shout of laughter, which made many broad XX.] SANGERFIELD. 40'? acres of the forest ring, announced his arrival. Mrs. Hale said she presumed the merriment was caused by his descrip tion to the Indians of the ridiculous figure she made when, pale and trembling with fear, she assumed so bold an air while addressing him. Mrs. Phelps, to her astonishment, upon returning to her house, found her own bread untouched, and every thing precisely as she left it, as if no one had been there. On the 20th of January, 1793, Seneca Hale, son of Mr. and Mrs. Minierva Hale, was born, being the first male born in town. On the 9th of February of thi.s year, and about throe weeks less than a year from the first settlement by Zerah Phelp.s, Col. David Norton and family moved into the town. From a diary, yet in the possession of the family, of his journey from Arlington, Bennington County, Vermont, to view the western eountry, the author was permitted to mak'? the following extracts : — May 28th, 1792. — Set out from Arlington to view the we.stern country. "June 1st—- Rode to Whitestown, thirteen miles from irst Presbyterian- Church and Society. In 1824 they removed their church edifice to a lot a short distance northerly on the road to Waterville. In 1846 it was taken down, and the present building erected, T^he Baptist Chivrch in Waterville was organized in the XX.]> ¦ SA-NGERFIELD. ' 415 .year, 1798. , Previously to- the 14th of : April' in this year, thefew Baptists in town had met and worshipped "with the Congregationalists;' but "feeling themselves excluded from the privilege of social worship in that, church," they agreed, " by the advice of Eld. Peter P. Roots, to meet at the house ef brother White Osborn, on that day, and consult as to what measures were best under' the circumstances." Aecordingly, on the 14th of April, eight persons met at Mr. Osborn'Sj which was on Stanton Parks' farm (where Sherri»an Bartho lomew now resides), and formed themselves 4nto a society for worship, whieh they kept up, although perhaps not regularly, until the 19th of December following, when they met at Benjamin. White's, in Waterville, and were received into the fellowship of the neighboring associate churches. The first clergyman who' preached to them was Eld. Peter P. Roots. The first regular settled minister was Eld. Joel Butler, who commenced his labors early in 1799. In the year 1800, they erected their first house of public worship, on the " green," as the entire triangular plat was called now in the centre of the village of Waterville. This' plat had been gratuitously granted them by Benjamin White for that and other church purposes. This church edifice was taken down in 1833, and the present brick church erected on its site the same year. The " green" is now all enclosed and built over, and is held by leases in perpetuity from the ehurch, at a small annual ground rent. Elder Butler preached about five years, ami after the ex piration of his term of labor, there was occasional preaching by different clergymen. Eld. Joy Handy preached a short time early in 1806. Eld. Hezekiah Eastman preached oc casionally for short periods, as the society desired. From 1807 to 1814 it can hardly be said that the church had any existence. There was but occasional - preaehing, and no 416 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP, regular organized system for its support. There are no church records of this period, and the blank can only be filled up with the recollections of those who witnessed its decay and torpor. In June, 1814, the Rev. John Upfold assumed the charge of the church, and by his zeal and energy, restored it to unusual vigor. The following are the names of its pastors from that period to the present : — Rev John Upfold, from 1814—1817. " Joel Clark, " 1817-- 1823. " Daniel Putnam, « 1824—1833. " Chancellor Hartshorn, « 1833—1837. " Warham Walker, « 1838—1841. « David Wright, " 1841—1843. " John N. Murdock, « 1843—1846. George W. Davis, " 1846—1847. Mr. Pierce, " 1847—1848. L. W. Hayhurst, " 1849. By the published minutes of the Oneida Baptist Asso ciation, to which this ohurch belongs, it appears that in September, in the years 1847 and 1848, they had no settled minister, and that there were 107 members belonging to the chul'ch. This is a smaller number than they had formerly reported, which the author finds to be the case with most of the churches of the diflferent denominations in the eounty. Perhaps this may be mostly accounted for in the number of new churches formed. On the 19th of May, 1823, the First Presbyterian Church in Wo.terville was organized, by twenty persons, who pre sented letters of dismission from the Congregational Church in Sangerfield, The Rev. Evans Beardsley became the first XX.J SANGERFIELD. 417 stated supply of this church, which office he held until AprU 27, 1824. In the latter year, Rev. Daniel C. Hopkins was instaUed pastor, and dismissed in 1828. Rev. John R. Adams, was the stated minister, during the foUowing year. At the close of his term of service. Rev, B. S. Barrows, was invited to become the minister, and remained in this capacity untU February, 1S33. The next pastor of the chureh was the Rev. Aaron Gturrison, who was instaUed in 1833, and dismissed February, 1836. Rev, Salmon Strong, was then obtained for several months, as stated supply, and October Sth, 1S36. Rev. Joseph Myers, 'was instaUed pastor, and re mained in the office untU June, 1839. Rev. John Frost, was next obtained as minister of the church. In March, 1 S43, he was removed from the field of his labors by death. Rev. Samuel W. Whelpley, was installed pastor in May fol- lo'wing, and dismissed in June, 1843. Rev. E. S. Barrows was again obtained as a stated supply, and closed his labors in AprU, 1845, In May of the latter year, Rev. A. D. Gridley was invited to become the minister of this people, ;ind February 22, 1847, he was instaUed pastor."' The above is extracted from the -Manual," recently published by this church. Rev. A. D. Gridley stiU continues their paster. In the summer of 1823, they erected their house for pub lic worship npon the ¦• green," purchased and prepared for that purpose, at the west end of the viUage. In 1844, this buUding was sold to the Methodists, and a new one erected opposite the Bank, in the central part of the viUage. The old buUding is stiU standing ; but from the inability of the Methodists to retain it, it has faUen into the hands of a pri vate indi'vidual. The ceremony of laying the corner-stone of this edifice teok place in June, 1824, and a variety of me mentos of the time, such as newspapers, American coin, ete.,^ 418 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP-' and a bottle of whiskey, were very securely placed within the head-stone of the corner. In. August, 1840, the Episcopal Church, at Waterville, was organized, and Rev. Fortune C. Brown was the first rector, and and continued as such during five years, until the fall of 1845. In the year 1842, this society organized as- " the Wardens and Vestrymen of Grace Church, Waterville," and erected their present church edifice. The Rev. David M. Faekler took the place of Mr. Brown, and remained until the spring following. Tho Rev. Wm. A. Matson was mini.^- ter, from the summer of 1846, to June, 1848, and the Rev. J. H Benedict, from September, 1848. to the present time. In 1843, the " Congar Settlement" society, ofthe Metho dist Episcopal Church was organized. They purchased tlir- old Presbyterian church edifice, in Waterville, but whicli wa=,- sold in the winter of 1848-9. In the month of April, 1 847, thO Second Methodist Epi-..- aypal Churcli was organized. This society has a very neat house for worship in the south part of the town at " Congar Settlement," or " Congar Town," these names being promib- cuously applied to the .same location. In June, 1814, Joseph Tenny, commenced the publication of a weekly newspaper, in this town, entitled the " Chris tians' Weekly Monitor and Sabbath Morning Repast." In 1816, it was merged in the " Civil and Religious Intelligen cer]' or rather the two papers were printed on the same sheet. The Intelligencer continu'ed to be published until 1833. when Mr. Tenny, the publisher removed from the town. A weekly newspaper, entitled the " Oneida Staiidard" was published in Waterville, ia 1833. and 1834. It was estab- XX.] SANGE&FIELD. 41^ lished as a political paper, advooating the i-nterests of the demporatic party, and at first was conducted with abUity, but falling into other ha^nds, it was removed to Utica, and was soon afterwards discontinued. LOCATION, GEOLOGY. FACE OF THE COITNTRY, SOIL, ETC. The town of Sangerfield is situated in the southern part of the countv, eighty-eight miles westerly from Albany, on the Cherry Valley Turnpike, and seventeen south-west from I'tiea. Its latitude is north 43 deg. 54 min., its elevation above tide water about 1375 feet, and SOO above Utica and tile long level on the Erie Canal. It contains about 18,900 acres. Its shape is nearly that of a parallelogram. Although m;iuy of the lots are of irregular shape, they were intended, a.s required by law, to contain 250 acres each. The east and west lines of the town run due north and !!0uth, the south line due- east aud west, and the nonth line south 87 deg. cast. Its greatest length from north to south is six miles and 120 rods, and its breadth from cast to west, four miles and 216 rods. The north-west part of the town rests upon " carniferons lime stone." a part of -which is exposed, and quarried in the ereek, below tho woolen factory, in WaterviUe. The remain ing and hilly portion of the town rests immediately upon the ¦¦ MarceUus shales," except the summits of the highest hiUs in the south and south-west parts, whicli are capped by the lower shales of the " HamUton group." The main easterly branch of the Oriskany creek, and a branch of the Chenango river, riae in the northerly part of the town, and for about two mUes before the former takes its northerly and the l-itter its southerly course, they are nearly 42© ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. paTallel to each other, and run to the west The north and central portions of the town lying upon and between these streams are comparatively level, and the land very excellent for cultivation. The northern extremity of the " great swamp " is on lot 27, about three-fourths of a mile west from Waterville, and from thence its course is south-westerly, leaving the town near the west " quarter line." Its average width is about one and a half miles, and the length of the part lying in this town is about four miles. In its natural state this swamp abounded in the finest timber for building and fencing purposes, it being very thickly and heavily covered with 'white pine and cedar. Its most valuable timber, however, has already disappeared before the axes of the settlers, it having furnished lumber for most of the buildings, and rails for the fences, for many miles around. A small portion of this swamp has been cleared and drained, and promises to be good meadow land ; but most of it will probably remain a waste for many years yet to come. If the early settlers of the county had exercised prudence with regard to the lots fitted by nature to be preserved for their timber, if they had oftener heeded the appeal of the song " Wood-man spare that tree]' we should not have witnessed a scarcity of the article, ere a half century had hardly elapsed from the time the ''• pale face" commenced his depredations upon its vast and heavily timbered forests. All the east part of the town and that part which lies south-east-of the Chenango creek w'hich drains the swamp, rises into hills ranging from two to three hundred feet in height. In the southern hills, spring numerous tributaries of the Chenango, which, running northerly and westerly, and fall ing over therocis of shale,form a number of picturesque water falls, in two of whieh the water descends about seventy feet. XX.J. . SANGERFIELDk 42't One of these tributaries heads in " Bailey'» Pond," a nat- , ural sheet of water, lying about 2G0 feet higher than tho swamp, and covering about ten acres. It is said to have been sounded with 120 feet of line without finding bottom. A tributary of the west branch of the Oriskany creek, also takes its rise in this town, in a swamp, on lot No. 13, and leaves the town about a mile south of its north-west corner. The hills which enclose the valleys of this ereek on the west, and those bounding the lower part of the great swamp, form one continuous chain on the west line of the town, from the Cherry VaUey turnpike to the line of Brookfield, The soil of the valleys is rich and productive, and the hills are excellent for pasturage. The staple productions of the town are corn, grain, hops, wool and cattle. The town con tains five houses for public worship, for the different denom inations, heretofore mentioned, and fifteen school districts and school houses. By the census of 1845, the town contained 2272 inhabitants. The village of Waterville stands chiefly upon lots Nos, 39 and 40 in this town, but a small part of the village is how ever in the town of Marshall, It is situated upon the east branch of the Oriskany creek, at its junction with a small tributary which rises among the hills in the east and south east part of the town of Marshall, At, and below this junc tion, the east branch falls very rapidly until it unites with the west bramch at DeansviUe, The power thus furnished is the only durable water power in the town. This circumstance, very early in the settlement of the eountry, caused a collec tion or "huddle" of buildings, known as "Sangerfield Hud dle," and which by a steady and healthy growth has become the third place in importance inthe county. In 1793, the former Colonel, but then Judge Sanger, built the first saw mill at this place. In the year, 1794, Benjamin White 422 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. erected one on the site of the present woolen factory. In the year 1 796, Mr. White erected a grist mill near the site of the one now owned by Goodwin and Church, Within a few years afterwards Justus Tower, Esq,, who settled in the place in 1 799, built the grist mill which stands a few rods below. In 1799, Sylvanus Dyer, removed from the Centre, which up to that time had been tJic village of the town, and built the house now owned by Mrs. William Page, at the west end of the village, in which he opened both a store and a tavern. This was the first stock of goods off'ered for sale in the vil lage. In 1801, Brown and Hewett, who had previously kept a store on the road to Oriskany Falls, and on the hill -.vhere Nicholas Edwards now resides, erected for a store the liuilding now owned by Fitch Hewett. The next store was soon after opened by Robert Benedict, Esq., in the building erected by him, and which is now the rear wing of the ^^'aterville House, owned by A. D. and G. B. Cleveland. Esq'iire Benedict is said to have been very much of the gen- ;lf-:r.an, both in his manners and style of living. He was the brother-in-law of Doctor Nott, now President of Union College, and soon after he commenced trade, the Doctor, th<;n a young Clergyman, made him a visit. Although Esq. B. was the son of a clergyman and brought up in the faith of -•the most straitest sect" yet neither he nor his household possesfsed a copy of the holy scriptures. Fearing the reproof he would receive from the Doctor if his destitution should be iiseovered, when the family were summoned to worship, he borrowed a Bible of Col. Sylvanus Dyer, his next neighbor, and placed it upon the table in the parlor, so as to appear as his own. In the morning after the family had assembled for prayer, the Doctor took the sacred volume and very rev erently opening it, and turning over its leaves to select a XX.] 'SANGERFIELD. 423 chapter suitable to the occasion, saw tbe name of 'Sylvanas Dyer written on a blank leaf, but which he passed without seeming to notice, and proceeded with his. devotions. In the course of the day the Esquire returned the borrowed volume, and thinking he would not again be caught in the awkward dilemma, proceeded to the store aind purchased a copy, and in the selection he strove for as near a resemblance to the one he borrowed as possible, and placed it in the same position in which the Doctor had left the other in the morning. When the femily were all again present for -evening prayers the Doctor took the new Bible and leisurely opened it to road as before. Probably the newness' of the book caused a little suspicion in his mind, for after a close search on the blank leaves, he quietly and qulzzingly remarked, "Brother Benedict, I don't see Sylvanus Dyer's name here.'' No de- ¦soription is necessary of the confusion of the brother-in-law in his unpleasant predicament. In April, 1804, an extraordinary freshet deluged the val ley of the Oriskany. It swept every dam at this place, and caused a great destruction of property, and two estimable citizens, Justus Tower, Esq., and John Wiliiams, jun., lost their lives by the fiood. J-ustus Tower, Esq., was a man of great enterprise and had reoeMiy.been re-elected supervisor •->f the town. Soon after the freshet, the village was visited with a severe epidemic which carried off a number of citizens, among whom was Ichabod Stafford, Esq., who has been pre viously mentioned. In the year 1 808, the Sangerfield Post Office which had been previously located in this village, was removed to the •Centre. In this year or the year preceding, the village, which from its first settlement had no other local name than the Huddle, reeeived the name of Waterville. In the fall of She year, on a certain evening, Doctor Sherman Bartholomew, 424 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY, [CHAP, Josiah Bacon, Reuben Bacon, Isaac Terry, and John Wil liams, Esquires, were together in the tavern kept either by Eli Hotchkiss, or Pardon Keyes, now the dwelling house of Doctor E, A, Munger, and among other topics, the name of the village became a subject of conversation, and it was unaa- imously agreed that the village deserved a more dignified name, and that it should have one. After the suggestion, of a variety of names. Doctor Bartholomew proposed that of Waterville, to which they all assented, and by that name it has since been recognized. It was- not however generally known by that cognomen out of the village, until the WatcE- villePost Office was established in 1823. The name Water ville was selected, because not only agreeable, but a very ap propriate one. The Writer would not, like a certain lady au thor, intimate, that Whiskeyville would have been more ap propriate, believing that pure water is more congenial to the^ tastes of a majority of its citizens than whiskey. In the year 1806, the village had thirty-two dweUing houses and stores, and 300 inhabitants. It has now a bank with a capital of $ 100,000, five large dry good stores, an ex tensive drug store, a large grocery and provision store, a large tannery connected with the boot and shoe-making, for foreign markets, an extensive copper, sheet iron, and tin manufactory, an organ manufactory, whicli employs many hands, a large woolen factory, two grist and flouring mills, a distUlery for the making of pure alcohol, three furnaces, two machine shops, two. taverns, and three houses for public' worship. There is now constructed a plank road from, this place- through Clinton to Utica, and another to Utica, via Paris HUl, as also the EarlviUe and Waterville plank road, on the east side of the swamp. It has a select school for young la dies, and an exceUent district school, The viUage contained XX.] S-INSERFIELD, 425 on the 1st of January, 184'8, 1014 inhabitants, nearly ono half the whole number in the town. The "Centre" is a small village situated onthe Cherry V^alley turnpike, one and a quarter mUes south from Water ville, The village contains one large stose, two taverns, the Sangerfield post office, and the Congregational church. It eontains thirty-five dwelUng houses, and about 250 inhabitants. The name of Benjamin White has frequently occurred in the foregoing notice of Sangerfield, He was one of the fathers of the town, having settled as early within two weeks as any one in the town, or village of Waterville, He was the liberal donor to the Baptist society, of the ground on which stands their church, and the triangular block of buildings in the centre of the village. He built the second saw mill, and the first grist mill in the town. In 1 805, his fellow townsmen eleeted him supervisor, A few years afterwards, he emi grated to the town of Stafford, Genesee County, where his end was most melancholy and tragical. He had two sons, the eldest of whom resided with his father, with the larger portion of his moderate property, in expectancy. The youn ger son resided in Ohio. It seems there was some dissatis faction in his mind, because he had received so small a share of his father's estate. Some few years after the father had removed to Stafford, he came from Ohio to see him, and while there, mentioned to some one, that he intended his father shoiUd give him more of his property before he returned. . After his arrival, he went to the woods, where his father was manufacturing maple sugar. The elder brother was plowing so near, that he could distinctly see his ftither and brother, but not near enough to hear any of their conversa tion. After a short stay at the sugar works, they started together for the house. Their conversation is but a subject for conjecture. The S26 ANNALS -OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. elder brother ^observed, that when they started, his father walked as if excited. When they arrived at the house, as the father stepped up to the door to open it, the son took him by the shoulder, turned him round, and with a pistol thot him dead. For the commission of this parricide, the son was apprehended, tried, convicted, and executed. The following is a list of the several Supervisors of the town of Sangerfield, and the number of years each has perved :— David Norton 6 years , from 1795 to 1800. Amos Muzzy - 1 ' 1801. Oliver Norton 1 1802. Justus Tower 1 '' 1803 and 4. Benjamin White - 1 " 1805. Oliver C. Seabury - . 6 1806 to 9, 11 and 13. John Williams 1 1810. Josiah Bacon - 9 " 1812-14 to 20 and 28. Reuben Bacon 4 " 1821-22-2-3 and 32. Samuel M. Mott 7 " 1824-5-6-7-9-30 & 31. John Mott - o 1833-42 and 40. Erastus Jeffers 2 ' 1834 and 36. Levi D. Carpenter 1 '¦ 1835. Horace Bigelow 4 '¦ 1837-38-39 and 40. Julius Tower 1 ' 1.S41. Otis 'VVebster - 1 " 1844. Amos 0. Osborn - 2 " 1845 and 46. De Witt C. Tower 2 " 1847 and 48. John W. Stafford ,1 " 1849. The following obituary of the late Daniel Eells, Senior, belonged more appropriately to New Hartford, but as hie death did not occur until after the history of that town had been printed, it is given here. It seems, too, that he first settled in that part of Sangerfield which was formed into xx.] SANGERFIELD. 427' Bridgewater in 1797, and it, therefore, is not entirely out of place here. It is taken from the Utica Daily Gazette, of July 21, 1851 :— ' Another old resident has fallen. Deceased— in New Hartford, Daniel EeUs, Senior. Born in Middletown, Conn., November, 1757. Died July 17th, 1851. Aged 93 years 9 months. A young man when the Kevolutiouary War commenced, he joined the army at Boston under Colonel Talcott. With a.thers he labored all night in building the slight embankment the defence of which has since ren dered Bunker Hill so memorable. In the moming his company was ordered into the country on a scouting expedition, and was thus absent from the battle. Soon afterwards, on the ocean, he was cap tured by an English privateer and taken into Bermuda, where he was kept prisoner a long time. He was in the battle on Long Island and with Washington when he evacuated New York. After return ing to Boston with the army, he remained in New England, during tbe war. Bnt owing to some informality in the evidence, Govern ment did not see fit to grant him a pension. In January, 1796, he reraoved with his family fo Bridgewater in this county, where he remained one yea,r, and from thence to New Hartford (then known as Whitestown), where he has since resided. Almost a centenarian, lie lived to see the -wilderness bud and blossom as the rose. One of the few left who endured the hardships of that period, he Jived t-o see his descendants enjoy the blessings he helped to obtain. And it is a, remarkable fact that during a space of 93 years, he resided under the same roof with a sister deceased last December, at the advanced age Of 96 years. He did not make a profession of religion until late in life, yet was always a constant attendant at the House of God, until the infirmities of age 'prevented. Though shut out from the sympathies of the world of late years, by age and imbecility, he endeared himself to his friends and relations by his kindness and amiability of heart and Ufe. Reverence to his memory and peace to his ashes." 428 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY,- [uIIAr. CHAPTER XXI. STEUBEN. By an act of the Legislature, passed April 10th, 1792, this town was created. The amount of territory included •within its bounds would be considered rather formidable at the present day. Steuben was all that part of Whitestown, beginning at the mouth of the Nine Mile Creek, running thence , north-easterly to the north-east corner of Holland Patent ;, thence northerly along the east bounds of Steuben's Patent to the north-east corner thereof; thence due north to the north bounds of the State ; and also from the place of beginning due west to the line of Oneida Reservation ; thence north-west along said line to Fish Creek ; thence due north to the north bounds of the State, First town meeting at the house of Seth Ranney, near Fort Stanwix, The town meeting was held on the first Tuesday of April, 1793, Roswell Fellows was chosen supervisor, and Jedediah Phelps town clerk. This shows that Fort Stanwix, at that time, was the cen tral point of the town of Steuben, and thatj the inhabitants in the vicinity of the fort, came in at least for a goodly pro portion of the " spoils." for Messrs, Fellows and Phelps were both residents of that locality. Mr. Fellows held the- office of supervisor for three years, when, in March, 1796, the towns of Rome and Floyd were taken from Steuben. The act also provided, that the next town meeting for Steu- XXL] STEUBEN, ' 429 ben should be held at the house of Joshua Wells, The meeting was held, and Samuel Sizer was chosen supervisor. Mr, Sizer held the office for six years. In 1797, the town of Steuben was again divided, and the towns of Western and Leyden taken from it. This, it is believed, left this town with its present bounds and ter ritory. The law making this division of the town provided that the next town meeting should be held at the late residence of Baron Steuben, deceased. At the expiration of the six years of Mr. S. Sizer's services as supervisor, Thomas H, Hamilton was elected to that office, who held it for twenty-five successive years. He also, for a number of years, held the office of judge of the eounty. He is now living at an advanced age in the town of Verona. Russel FuUer, who is yet a resident of the town, has held the bffice for eight years. This town lies in an elevated position, and its soil is better adapted to grazing than grain. It raises very little corn or wheat, although within the last few years a fair piece of spring wheat is occasionally seen. Butter is the leading article for market. The majority of the population is Welsh, who are not famed for the manufacture of cheese, but in butter they acknowledge no superiors. If their soil is less luxuriant, probably no section of the county can be found where the farmers are more prosperous or accumulate pro perty faster than here. This town adjoins Floyd on the south. The line being nearly on the top of what is known as Floyd hill, a high ridge of land running east and west. Passing down a long and gradual descent into the central part of Steuben, there is a valley lying parallel with the hill. In this valley. Big Brook runs westerly and north-westerly, and empties into the Mohawk in Western, and Steuben Creek flows from the 430 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTT. [CIIAP. valley eastw.ardly and south-eastwardly, and unites with Cin cinnatus Creek, at Trenton village. From this valley rises to the north the high land, known as Steuben hill. It risc^ much higher, and overlooks Floyd hill, and its ascent is much more abrupt. At a number of places, HamUton Col lege and other buildings in the neighborhood, are to be dis tinctly seen with the naked eye. Starr's hill the most elevated point in this ridge, is the highest land in the county. Its altitude is so great, that Indian corn entirely fails to maturo on it. The visitor is at onee impressed with the vastness of th:? landscape. No land within many miles is as high as wher.: he stfands. Westerly and north-westerly the view is almost unbounded. A large section of the Oneida Lake is to be seen, and a person well acquainted in Central New York, in viewing the location of different highlands, soon becomes s-at- isfied .that portions of seven different counties are distinctl v seen. This section of Steuben hill received its name from Captain David Starr, one of the earliest settlers in the towii who chose for his home this elevated ground. Capt. Starr held his commission in the continental army, and served seven years. He had but a durable lease of his farm, and was not as successful in farming as with his sword. After the death of the Baron Steuben, his executor Col. Walker, pressed the Captain for rent, and a suit was instituted for its collection, when the Captain became so irritated, to think that one of his old companions in arms should distress him for that which he had not the means of paying, thathe gave tlu- Colonel a verbal challenge to meet him at the grave of the Baron, with sword and pistol, and there settle the matter. The suit however proceeded no farther, and the Captain had further lenity shown him. In quite a number of instances aad in different places, the people in the vicinity have chosea XS1.J STBOBEK 4St ^lis eievslbd loeaility- as a place of Bepolfvte for their Mends. In general the- sarfaee of tiiis town may be termed- stony. Bowlders of every Eaae and shape,- some of -which are of im mense proportions, thickly dot the fields. By the patient pfflrsetenng industry of iti inhabitants, Wel^ and Yankee, these nn^^itly deformities are being fast removed and laid into the most snlistantial and endoiing fences. To the un practised, the task of removing some that are thus used, would seem Herculean. Where the rock is entirdy too large to be removed -with an ordinary fiorce of men and teams, a fire is built as compactly across it as posdhle, and none but the most stubborn can withstand the process for bnt a short time. when the huge block £rom circumference to centee cracks to pieces, and like the firagments of a divided nation, the reas- tanse of its several parts can he readily overcome, and the raighty mass that had unitedly withstood every effort is ^oattet^ never agmn to be nnited and cemented. Samuel Siser was the first person wh» settled -within the psresent limits of Steuben. It is, from the best evidence oh- tainaUe, believed he removed to the town in 1789, and came tc aaperintend the Baron Steuben's fiurming operations. ^<- thoo^ he had previously been a ship carpenter. Gapt^n Simeon FuUer came^ and took up a lot on Steu- l>«i's Patent, in the spring ef 1792, and the next spring he removed his family into tiie place. He -was bona October 17th, 1762. and is still living on the &rm on which he first settled, with bis son Major lUssel Fuller. The anther c>slled upon the old gentlemaii .the last of Augost; 1 843. He was found in the field hale and hearty, reaping and binding wheat, lacking tiien bat a few days of bang. 86 years cf age. He served in the army of the Bevidntinii^ fbr which he re- «etTes a pension. By industry and eoonom]^ he hasactpiired 432 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP, a handsome competence for his declining years. He is a fine remaining specimen of the men raised up by Providence to achieve their country's independence. Captain Fuller bought a part of his farm of Oaptain Woodruff, who is mentioned in another place. From some cause the article of sale from the Baron Steuben to Captain Woodruff, and by him assigned to Captain Fuller, was lost. Captain Fuller called on the Baron and stated the loss, requesting thelease of the lot, as agreed in the article. The Baron turned to his clerk and said, " make out the lease, Mr. Fuller is hard at werk, I hear the trees falling on the lot every day." The first child born in the town of Steuben, was Stephen Brooks, jun. The first couple married, was Williani Case to a Miss Piatt. (From Frost's AmericaB Generals.) LIFE OF MAJOR-GENERAL STEUBEN. •' Services such as those of Baron Steuben, during our struggle with Great Britain, are justly considered as among the very highest that could be rendered by any officer in that trying period. In this light they were regarded by Washington ; and their best eulogy is a comparison of the condition of the Ameriean army at the close of the war, with it as it had been at its commencement. " Frederic William Augustus, Baron de Steuben, was born in Germany, about the year 1730 or '33. The history of his youth is unknown. He served with Frederic the Great in the seven years' war, possessed the entire confidence of that monarch, and became his aid-de-eamp and Ueutenant-general m4he Prussian army. This fact is sufficient to 'establish his XiI.J STEUBEN. -433 aoilitary c-haraeter and knowledge of tactics; and he wa; ever r^arded by the Prussian government as one of their most able officers. After the dose of the war. he fiUed various offices in Germany, principaUy under the smaller princes, and was tendered a command in the army of Aus tria, which he refiised. At the commencement of the war between Great Britain and her colonies, he was in a condition of gentlemanly affluence. "In 1777. whfle on a visit to En^and. he stopped at Paris. for the purpose of having an interview 'with the Count St. Germain, the French minister of war. and one of his intimate firiends. Soon after, he was -waited on by Colonel Pagen- stecher, on behalf of the Count, who informed him that the latter desired a personal inter-view at the Paris arsenal, on maners of importance. It is weU known that France was then secretly aiding the Americans, both by advice and mili tary stores ; and it was -with a view of enlisting the Baron in the cause of fi^edom. that the proposed interview tvas sought At the meeting, St. Germain repre^nted the ultimate pros pects ofthe colonists as flattering: that France, and probably S pain, would eventuaUy aid them, but that their army needed disciplinarians, which want the Baron conld weU supply. These proposals were seconded by the Spanish coasul and two French noblemen : but the Baron refused lo give a de cisive answer untfl an interview could be obtained with the Americ-an envoys. The latter -were unable to give the assu rances required, and after abandoninghis intention of visiting England. Steuben soon after retumed to Germany. On his arrival at Rastadt befonnd letters &om the Count, infisrming him that a vesel was about sailing for America, in which he tnuld immediately embark, with a prospect of having everv difficulty satisfactorfly adjusted. Having received from l>r. Franklin letters of rec\>nimendation to General Washington 434 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [cHAP. andthe President of Congress, he embarked, on the 26th of September, 1.777, under an assumed name, and after a rough voyage, landed at Portsmouth, N. H, Deceniber 1st. " His first care was to address his recommendations to Gen eral Washington, at the same time requesting admission into the service. The close of his letter is worthy of preservation ' I could say, moreover, were it not for the fear of offending your modesty, that your excellehcy is the only person undei- whom, after having served under ' the King of Prussia, I could wish to pursue an art to which I have wholly given up myself Washington referred him to Congress, as the only- body empowered to accept his services ; and accordinglj-, in February, he laid his papers before that body. A committee of five was appointed to wait upon him. In his interview with them the Baron stated what he had left to engage in the American service, offered them bis services, without any other remuneration than the amount of expenses ; but, that while he expected no reward, should the final result be unsuccessful, yet in case of the Americans gaining their independence, ho would expect an indemnity for the offices he had resigned in Europe, and a reward proportionate to his services. Con gress returned him thanks for this disinterested offer, and requested him to join the army. " The American main body was at that time wintered near Valley Forge. The sufferings endured by the troops, their privations and diseases during that terrible winter, were long remembered as forming the darkest page of our revolutio-nary history.. At sight of them, the astonishment of one who had been accustomed to the well provided armies of Europe, may be coneeived ; and Steuben declared that under such circum stances no foreign army could be kept ti^ether a single month.- , He was appointed inspector-general, and entrusted with tl^e .difficult task of forming from sueh materials an X.VI.] ' STEUBEN. , 4^S' army disciplined after the European system. Disheartening as were these prospects^ and heigl^tened, tqo, by Steuben's ignorance of the English language, he ente'red upon his duties with ardor. An interpreter was found, and the great work of giving efficiency to the army of Washington commenced. This was something new to the sufferers of Valley Forge; and the strictness of the old soldier, together with his perfect familiarity with the most difficult military movements, aston ished even the commander himself ' The troops,' says Dr, Thacher, 'were paraded in a single line, with shouldered arms every officer in his particular station. The Baron first re viewed the line in this position, passing in front with a scru tinizing eye, after whieh he took into his hand the musket and accoutrements of every soldier, examining them with particular accuracy and precision, applauding or condemning, according to the condition in which he found them. He required that the musket and bayonet should exhibit the brightest polish; not a spot of rust or defect in any part could elude his vigilance. He inquired also into the conduct of the officers toward their men, censuring every fault and applauding every meritorious action. Next, he required ef me, as a surgeon, a list of the sick, with particular statements of their accommodations, and mode of treatment, and even visited some of the sick in their cabins.' " The great services rendered by the Baron, as exhibited in the rapid improvement of thearmy, did not escape the notice of either Washington or Congress ; and at the recommenda tion of the former, he was appointed permanent inspector- general, with the rank of major-general. By his great exer tions he made this office respectable, establishing frugality and economy among the soldiers. In discipline, both of men and officers, he was entirely impartial, and-i^ever pmitted an opportunity to. praise, merit,, or. censure ,a fault. Washington 4S6 ASNALS op ONElfiA COUNTY. [cHaR Speaks of him in the following manner. ' Justice eoncurring w'ith inclination, constrain me to testify that the Baron has in every instance discharged the several trusts reposed in him, with great zeal and ability, so as to give him the fullest title of my esteem as a brave. indefatigS-ble, judicious and ex perienced officer.' " America was sOot to 'witness the effects of the new disci-' pline upon the very army that had twice defeated hers. In June, 1778, the British army evacuated Philadelphia, and marched hastily for New York. They were led to this step through fear that a French fleet might block up the Dela ware, while Washington attacked them by land, and thus they be forced to surrender. Washington pursued them and ardently desired to give battle. Steuben's opinion coincided with the commander's, and on the morning of the 28th a de tachment under General Lee, advanced against the enemy, and commenced the battle of Monmouth- In the retreat and subsequent rally of the advanee, the value of discipline was triumphantly di^layed. The retiring troops were formed by Washington in the very face of the enemy, turned upon their pursuers and regained the lost ground. Such a movement is justly considered the triumph of discipline ; and the battle of Monmouth is one of the most remarkable of the war, not only as exhibiting the great talents of General Washington, but as a proof ,of the former invaluable though silent labors of the> Baron Steuben. "On the 20th of May, Lord Cornwallis united his southern army with General Arnold at Petersburgh. The latter offi cer had succeeded to the command in Virginia, at the death of Phillips. Previous to this, Steuben had found his situa tion so irksome, that he had asked and obtained leave to join Greene in South Carolina ; but hewas prevented from doing SO' -by the new invasion of CornwaUis.-. He therefore estab- S-VI-j STKCBKN. 437 lished himself with six hundred men at the state arsenaL near the source of James river. ¦¦ Having ascertained the Baron's position, CornwaUis de tached Colonel Simcoe against him with five hundred regu lars, who were to be joined in their march by Tarleton with two himdred and fifty horse. Steuben had no means of as certaining his opponent's strength, and when the latter dis played an extended front, and buflt a, large number of fire*; at night, he was led to believe that the whole force of Coru- wallis had arrived. The Americans retreated, and Simcoe. alter destroying the- stores at the state arsenal, retumed t* Petersburgh. "On the 16th of Jnne, Steuben joined La Fayette, who had previously been reinforced by the Pennsylvania troops. vender General Wayne. On the 16th of July, the Marqui- met Cornwallis near Jamesto-wn, and a slight engagement took place, in which the Ajnericans behaved remarkably well, notwithstanding their great inferiority of numbers TLe enemy gained some advantage, but did not pursue it; and so'3n after the Earl marched to Yorktown, which he be gan to fortify. -• On the 2Sth of Septembjpr, the main allied army of the French and Americans, under Bochambeau and Washington. aided by the fleet of De Grasse, sat down before the place. The siege lasted untfl the 18th of October, during which time Steuben bore his full share of tofl and danger. His exact scientific knowledge rendered him extremely useful and to atone in some measure for his former vexations. Washington assigned him a eommand in the line. His ser vices are honorably noticed by that great man, in the general orders subsequent to the capitulation. " After this happy afiair, the Baron retumed with the main army to the middle states, where he remained untfl the treaty 438 annals op ONEIDA COUNTY. [chap. of peace. In 1782 he informed Washington of the arrival of one of his former acquaintances, the Count Benyowzky or Bienewsky, whom he introduced to the commander. He Was a Prussian nobleman, allied by blood to the renowned Pulaski, and had experienced most romantic changes. He offered to hire on certain conditions, a body of German troops, to be employed in the American army as a distinct legion, and each officer and soldier at the close of the war was to receive a tract of the public land. His plan was ap proved by Washington, after some alteration, and favourably reported by Congress ; but the approach of peace prevented its adoption. ' Baron Steuben was appointed to receive the surrender of the posts on the Canada frontier, but the incivility of the British general caused much contention, and Steuben returned to New York. " On the day that Washington resigned his office as com mander-in-chief, he wrote to the Baron the following noble and affectionate letter : — ¦¦ ' Altliougli I liave taken freixuent opportunities in public and private, of acknowledging your gi1*at zeal, attention and abilities, in performing the duties of your office, yet I wish to make use of this last moment of my public life, to signify in the strongest terms, my entire approbation of your conduct, and to express my sense of the obligations the public is under to you for your faithful and merito rious services. '"I beg you will be convinced, my dear Sir, that I should rejoice, if it ever should be in my power, to serve you more essentially than by expressions of regard and affection ; but, in the mean time, I am persuaded you will not be displeased with this farewell token of my sincere friendship and esteem for you. ¦' 'Tliis is the last letter I shall write while I continue in the ser vice of my country. The horn- of niy resignation is fixed at twelve to-day; after which I shall become a private citizen on the banks of XXI.] STEUBEN. 439 the Potomac, where I shall be glad to embrace you, and testify the great esteem and consideration with which " ' I am, my dear Baron, &c.' " '- The neglect with which many of the brave men who had bled in our cause were treated by Congress, will ever remain as a stigma on that body. Among these were Steuben ; for seven years he made ineffectual efforts to obtain a notice of his claims, but in vain. He had left affluence and baronial dignity among the monarchs of Europe, to waste his life iij our struggle, and now when the great object has been reach ed, he was poor, homeless, and unprovided for. ¦¦ At last, through the strenuous exertions of Washington and Hamilton, Congress were induced to acknowledge his claims. In 1 790, they granted him an annual sum of twenty- five hundred dollars. Other grants, principally of land, had been made by Virginia and New Jersey, and on the the Sth of May, 1786, the New York Assembly voted him sixteen thousand acres. Determined not to revisit Europe, he built a log house on his land, rented a large portion of it to tenants, and, with a few domestics, lived, there until his death, excepting during an annual visit to New York city in the winter. His time was spent in reading, gardening, and in cheerful conversations with his faithful aids. Walker and North, who remained with him until death. Occasionally ho amused himself by playing chess and hunting. " On the 25th of November, 1794, he was struck by paraly sis, and on the 2Sth, his long and active life closed. He died in full belief of the truths of Christianity, which for somo time had been his consolation and support ' His body was buried in his military cloak, to which was attached the star of knighthood, always worn during life. His servants and a few neighbors buried him. His grave 440 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. was in a deep forest, which being afterwards crossed by a road, occasioned its reinterment on a spot about a quarter of a mile north of his house. Walker performed this duty, and afterwards placed an iron railing around the grave. A stone, with the inscription, Major-General Frederick William Au gustus, Baron de Steuben, marks the hero's resting place, A tablet in memory of him was placed in the Lutheran church, Nassau St., New York, where he always attended when in that city. This was done by his aid. Colonel North, who graced it by the following inscription : — Sacred to the Memory of FF.EDERICK WILLIAM AUGUSTUS, BARON STEUBEN, A German Knight ofthe Order of Fidelity, Aid-de-Camp to Frederick The Great, King of Prussia, Major General and Inspector General In the Revolutionary War. Esteemed, Respected, and Supported by Washington. He gave Military Skill and Discipline To the Citizen Soldier, (Who fulfilled the Decrees of Heaven,) Achieved the Independence of the United States The highly polished manners of the Baron Were graced by the most noble feelings of the Heart ; His hand open as the day to melting Charity, Closed only in the grasp of Death. This memorial is inscribed by an Ameriean, Who had the Honor to be his Aid-de-Camp, The happiness to be his friend, 1795. " By his wUl, the Baron left his library and one thousand dollars to a young man of literary habits, named Mulligan, xu.} STEUBSN. 441 whom he bad adopted and nearly all the lemainder of his pn^erfcy to Nortii and Walker. What a proof of his firm ness as a Mend, and Ids gratitude for even the smaUest favors.^ Aa aneedote of Baron Steuben has been fregpnentlj told and pnUished in almost as many di&rent forms as narrators. The Mlorwing ^ belie'ved to be the correct verdon, as it was obtained firom the former nd^bois of Jonatiiaa Steuben, and who bad freqpoently heard him narrate tite whole details ofthe trassaetion. After the treason of the in&mous Benedict Arnold, 'when, to use tiie -words of one ofthe early historians (xtheBevolntion, -he was despised by all mankind," the very nasie seemed to grate harshly on the ears of the Baron. Cki one occa,sion after the treason, the Baron 'was on par^e at ndl-eaD, when the detested name, Arnold, was heard in one of the in&itry companies of the Gonneetieut line. The Barcm immediaiely i^ed tiie unfortunate possessor to the ficont of the company. He was a perfect model for his pra&ssioi^; clothes, arms and equipments in the most perfect order. The praetieed eye of tite Baron soon scanned the soldier, and, - caU at my marquee, afler you are dismissed^brother soldiec,'' was his only remark. After Arnold was dismissed firom parade he eaDed at tite Saron'^ qnarters as directed. The Baron said to him, ^ jou are too 'fine a soldier to bear tite name of a traitor, diange it at on^ diange it at once." Bnt what name shall I take, replied Arnald. - Any that you please, any that you please, take mine, if you cannot sait yourself better, mine is at yoor service." Arnold at on^e agreed to the proportion, and immediately repaired to h& or derly, and Jonathan Steuben fortiiwitii graced the eorapany roB. in lieu of tiie disgraced name of him who had plotted treason to his coantary. Afier the Uiuted Stages had cao.^ 442 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CH-VP. quered their independence, our hero returned to Connecticut, and on his petition, the general court legalized the change of name. A few years after, he wrote the Baron, who had now settled on his patent in this county, that he had married and had a fine son born, and that he had named him Frederick William. The Baron replied that when the son had ar rived at the age of twenty-one, he would give him a farm. The Baron soon after paid the debt of nature, but his letter was carefully preserved. A few years after 'its settleraent Jonathan Steuben removed to this town with his family. When Frederick William arrived at his majority, the letter was presented to Col. Walker, one ofthe Baron's executors. who at once executed to him a deed, in fee of fifty acres of land, but whieh had been previously leased to Samuel Sizer, and as the recipient preferred the enjoyment of the land to the receipt of the rents, he purchased the lease, and at onc-i? went into possession. Jonathan Steuben lived to become a pensioner, and died some fifteen or si.Kteen years since. His widow survived hiiu, and has been dead but about six years, .she also drew a pension. In the war of 1812, Frederick William went with the militia to Saeketts Harbor, where he was taken sick and died. For his services his widow received a pension. He was or derly sergeant of his company, and with the name of the Baron he had seemed to inherit at least a portion of his distin guishing qualifications, for he was considered one of the best disciplinarians in his regiment. The following anecdote of the Baron Steuben, is copied from -' Clark's history of Onondago " The author of that work having kindly given permission to have it and a number of other items relating to this county, transcribed into this work : — " Mr. John A. Shaeffer was the first settler iri Manlius SXI.) STEUBEN. 443 village. He commenced his residence in 1 792. He like many others of the early settlers, soon after opened a tavern and sold a few goods, to satisfy the very limited wants of the scattered inhabitants. In the year 1794, a son was born to Mrs. Shaeifer, which was undoubtedly the first birth in the village. He was named Baron Steuben, in honor of the fa mous General of that name, who about this time spent a night at the house of Mr. Schaeffer, on his way out to Salt Point v/ith General Stephen Van Rensselaer, and General Williani North. The circumstances of this visit have been related to the author as follows : — '¦ ' On the return of the party from Salt Point, whether they had been to select a site for a block-house ; they spent the night at the house of John A. Shaeffer, Esq., ' inn-keeper,' at Manlius. The guests were considerably fatigued with their journey and the labors of their important trust, and re tired early to rest. During the night there seemed to be an unusual stir about the house, and as the hour of midnight approached, it still increased; and before morning transpired one of those unpostponable events incident to all prosperous and increasing families. The Baron was greatly annoyed during the night, so that he scarcely slept a wink. The fre quent shutting of doors, continual tramping of busy feet, and hushed sounds of female voices, which were greatly magnified by the Baron's nervousness, and the importance of progressing events, kept his mind in continual tumult. " ' The house was built of logs, only one story high, with two rooms below ; the chamber being the size of the house, with only loose boards for a floor, and accessible by no other means than a ladder. This chamber was occupied by the distinguished guests of Mr. Shaeffer. The companions of the hero of this tale slept soundly, but not so with the Baron. He often turned himself on his bed of straw, seeking rest and 444 ANNALS OP ONXIDA COUNTY. [gHAP. finding none, continuaUy wondering what on earth could ex cite such wonderful commotion, and he finaUy worked him self into an uncontroUable passion, which could scarcely be restrained till morning. On the earliest approach of light, the Baron rose, vowing vengeance on aU below. He ap proached the redoubtable landlord in not the most agreeable humor, saying, your hous6 is fuU of gossips and gobHns, sir : I hav'n't slept a wink all the blessed night ; you have a pack of dogs about you, noisy enough to deafen one. Sir, I repeat : your house is full of gossips and goblins. Sir, your house isn' t lit to stable swine. Give us breakfast, let us be off, and we'll not trouble you again. The Baron's rage was at its height. Mine host was perfectly dumb-founded before his enraged and angry guest, and dared not lift his head, or hint tbe cause of the disturbance during the night. But soon to give relief to his troubled mind, a woman approached the angry Baron, who was still breathing forth threatenings and storm, bearing in her arms an infant, who had not yet witnessed the setting of a single sun, saying, 'here, sir Baron, is the cause of all the noLse and trouble last night,' The gallant old soldier instant ly felt the impropriety of his conduct, his habitual good humor was instantly restored, his accustomed gallantry prompted him at once handsomely to apologize, at the same time begging ten thousand pardons of those around him. He tendered his most hearty congratulations to Mr. Shaeffer and his wife, and offered to bestow his name on the new visitant, which offer was accepted, and forthwith the Baron drew a deed of gift for two hundred and fifty acres of land. from his domain in Oneida, and after breakfast, with his friends, went on his way rejoicing.' " The Baron thought very highly of his land in this county. Ona certain occasion whUe on one of his annual winter visits to the city of Xew York, some of his friends rather jeered SXl.] STEUBEN. 445 him for attempting to settle the mountains, up at the head of the Mohawk. The Baron was a little nettled, and at once retorted, " that it was the best land in the world, and he could prove it" The proof was challenged, and it was at once given as follows : " Why there is Capt. Simeon Woodruff, who had sailed around the globe with Captain Cook, aad he has bought a farm on my patent and settled on it, and sure if in all his voyage a better location had been found, he would not have done so." The argument was deemed conclusive. Captain Woodruff moved into the town of Steuben, in 1790, and took a lease of a part of a farm now owned by Major Russel Fuller. Baron Steuben's Grave. — As noticed in his biography, the dust of this hero reposes in this town. In his will, the Baron provided that his body be buried in the place designated, but after his death it could not be ascertained that he had to any friend designated the place. The only remark that could be recollected that had any bearing upon the subject, was, that he was once heard to say, that under a certain hem lock, north of his residence would be a good place to be buried, without however expressing any wish as to his own remains. In the absence of any other expressed wish, that place was selected, and his remains there interred. A few years after a road was laid out, so that the grave was included within its limits. The impropriety of such a state of things induced A COUNTY, [cHAP. wards, when exhumed they were found destroyed, having be* come wet and mouldy, and therefore illegible. This fact having become public, Peter Servis, the original patentee, be ing still alive in the Mohawk Valley, presuming that the transfer to Sir William cQuld not be proved, commenced an action of ejectment against Mr, Boon and others, to recover the land, but failed in the attempt, as parol proof of the trans fer, was admitted upon the trial, • Among the early settlers of this section of the town, was Col. Adam G, Mappa and his family. Doctor Vander Kemp, both emigrants from Holland, the latter from the city of Leyden, Doctor Vander Kemp first settled neai* Esopus, now Kingston, Ulster County, in 1788, In 1793, he changed his residence to the shores of the Oneida Lake, and soon after to Oldenbarneveld, where he enjoyed the society of Col. Mappa's family. Col. Mappa succeeded Mr. Boon in the land agency, and Mr. John J. Vander Kemp, a son ofthe Doctor, early in life succeeded H. J. Huidekoper, Esq., who was appointed chief clerk in the general agency, Philadel phia. In 1804, Esquire Huidekoper accepted the agency of the Holland Land Compa,ny's lands, in Pennsylvania, and re moved to the Alleghany river, when young Vander Kemp was called to the chief clerkship in Philadelphia In 1824, upon ^the decease of Mr. Busti, Mr, Vander Kemp succeeded him in the general agency. Thus clerk in Col. Mappa's office, chief clerk, and general agent, he was almost half a century engaged in the concerns of the Holland Land Company. But to return to Oldenbarneveld, The first settlers en dured all the hardships and deprivations incident to a border life at that period. The nearest mill was sixteen miles dis tant, and in the then state of the roads, it waa a full three days' journey to go and return. When the candles were all expended, and a supply not forth-coming, they had to substi^ x.\ii, TRE^'To.^•. 453 tute a saucer of lard, with a strip of linen for a wick, thus forming a lamp around which they would sit, and enjoy life as weU as with the most costly lamp, filled with the best "bf sperm, to grace their table. In the best of weatlier and in tho driest portion of the season, twelve hours were quick time in whieh to perform the journey to old Fort Schuyler. This, it must be recoUected, was before plank roads were in vented. Among the fii-st settlers of Ti-enton, were Judge John Storrs, Col. Robert Hicks, Peter Schuyler. John P. Little, Cheny Carrott, and WUliam RoUa Like aU first settlers, they had their privations, joys and sorrows, in oommon. An instance of this, and of the energy of the men of those days. by which a house, as if by magic appeared to grace their vil lage, is related. A new settler had arrived with his family, but no domidl was ready for their accommodation, and noth ing in preparation fbr its erection. Trees, it is true, were growing iu their native forest, ''decked in green,"' and this was aU. The morning after the arrival all hands turned out to give the new settler a benefit, some logs were cut to be taken to the mill for boards, others were employed in prepar ing a skeleton frame, and ere night had spread her " sable curtains," the house had been framed and raised, the hoards sawed, the buQding entirely enclosed, and the fanuly had '^ moved in," to dream their future fortunes, the first night in their new homo. It is probable there were neither plastering, paint nor glaxing. but contentment made it equal to a palace. Mr. Boon whUe he continued his agency erected a saw and grist-miU, so that in a short time, comforts and accom modations clustered about them. The first town meeting of the inhabitants of Trenton. w.%s held AprU 4th, 1797 ; at which CoL Adam G. Mappa wa^s chosen supervisor, aud John P, Little, town clerk. During 454 ANNALS OF ONErDA COUNTY. [cHAP. the next three years. Judge John Storrs held the office of supervisor; for the next ten, Peter Schuylerj the next eighteen ^with the exception of one year) William RoUo, and then Judge Storrs held the office again for eight years. • Of the first settlers of this town. Miss Sophia, daughter of Col. Mappa, the widow of Judge Storrs, and Cheny Garrett are aU who now survive. To the scientific geologist there is no more interesting sec tion of the State than this town. Limestone underlaid with slate, is found in almost aU parts of it, and is of the very best and purest quality when burned for building purposes. The produce of many quarries also is easily cut, and is thus ex tensively used in the erection of buUdings. The State Asy lum, at Utica. is built of Trenton limestone, quarried near StittsvUle, a smaU village intersected by the line between thi,'? town and Marcy. This stone is formed of myriads of shells, corals, etc., etc. In different parts of the town, as the limited supply of timber suitable for fences, becomes exhausted, the farmers are annuaUy quarrying from their inexhaustible beds, and adding to the waUs which are eventually to enclose and divide their fields. In agriculture this town maintains an equal position among her sister towns in the county. When the town was new, winter wheat was extensively raised, but as the land becomes partially worn, it is winter kiUed, to so great an extent that its culture has been abandoned and spring wheat substituted, and this has been nearly driven from the productions of the town by the insect. Indian corn, oats, barley, rye, potatoes, carrots and ruta-bagas yield weU, and are as sure to bring as good a return for the labor bestowed, as in most sections in the county. There is a large propoi-tion of good land in Trenton, and among her farmers she numbers many of the most enterprising, persevering and successful of that class in xxn.] TRENTON. 455 this section of the country. Improvement and onward is their motto. This town furnishes a number of active and influential members of the Oneida County Agrienltnral So ciety. More attention has of late been paid to the breeding of good stock of all kinds, than formerly. The soil is well adapted to graring, and large quantities of butter and cheese are made annually and sent to market. Trenton Fails. — These falls, now so -eelebrated, were first brought into notice by the Rev. Jehu Sherman, by pub lications in different papers, and a pamphlet giving a moat glowing description of them. "They are situated on West Canada Creek, in N. lat. 43 deg. 23 min., 14 miles north of Uti- ca,at which place every facUity can be bad for a ride to Trenton Falls, where a large and commodious house is erected for the accommodation of visitors." The Indian name of these falls.is Cuy-a-hora, signifying "faU of the glancing waters." This creek is the main branch of the Mohawk river, and interlocks with the Black River upon the summit elevation and at one point the two streams are but three-fourths of a mUe apart, and can very readily be turned into the same channel. The West Canada-Creek has chosen its course along the highlands, making its "way on the backbone of the country, and empties into the Mohawk at Herkimer. Mr. Sherman thus speaks of the approach to the falls : " From the door yard, you step a-t once into the forest, and walking only twenty rods strike the bank at the place of descent." Passing down the stairs, "you land upon a broad pavement, level with the water's edge, a furious rapid being in front that has cut down the rock still deeper ; being now on the pavement, the river Styx at your feet, perpendicular walls of solid rocks on each side, and the narrow zone of sky far over head, your feelings are at once excited, you have passed inte a subterranean world. The 455 ANNALS OF ONEIHA COUNTY, [cilAP. first impression is astonishment at the change. But recov ering instantly, your attention is forthwith attracted to the magnificence, the grandeur, the beauty and sublimity of the scene. You stand and pause. You behold the operations of incalculable ages. You are thrown back to .antediluvian times. The adamantine rock has yielded to the flowing water that has formed the wonderful chasm. You tread on petrifactions or fossil organic remains imbedded in the four- hundreth stratum which preserves the forms and occupies the places of beings once animated like yourselves, each stratum. having been the deposit of a supervening flood, that happened successively. Eternity alone knows when I " These falls have not the sublimity or grandeur of Niagara, where every thing' of cascade is formed upon the grandest scale. There perched on Table Rock, the visitor at one view can witness the niighty roll and tumble of the father of cat aracts. Not so at Trenton. Here day^ spent in viewing and reviewing the succession of wonders and the beauties of the several cascades, rapids and eddies, and the scenery in which they are involved, will hardly satisfy the eyes of the tourist. There are three principal falls, the lower of thirty- seven, the middle of eleven, and the upper of forty-eight feet, and these with the lesser cascades and rapids immedi ately above, below and intervening, make a descent of 109 feet. In 1822, Mr. Sherman erected a "Rural Retreat for the accommodation of visitors at the Falls. His receipts for the first year were $187,35. The following beautiful lines were sketched at the Falls by the gentleman whose name is affixed, and presented to a Miss M. S., of Waterville, in this County, who was one of the party, and who furnished a copy for this work. rXU, ] TRENTON. 457 JJOONLIGHT REVERIES. Tliere is a pleasure in tbe pithless woodj-. Tliere is a rapture Ou tbe luntly shore ; Tbere is society -where none intrudes, ^j tbe deep sea and n^oslc in the roar. — Byron. Night's shadows thicken and the stars look through Their eth'ry veil of sofl and cloudless blue, While the pale moon with clear and steady ray Usurps the throne, where sat the god of day ; Here, as I stand upon this rugged shore, Nought breaks the stillness, save the mighty roar Of Trenton's waters, as they rush along, O'er craggy steeps, and jagged rocks among, Foaming and lashing in their ceaseless flow, To reach in thtmderthe abyss below. Flow on, proud stream ! — ^flow on, unfettered river. And peal aloud great Nature's anthem ever, And you, ye hills, in living verdure drest, Te giant rocks, no human foot e'er prest ! Aye stand, 'till Time to ashes shaU have trod AU earthly emblems ofthe pofrer of God. Ye flow'ry banks, so beauteously array'd ! Ye winding walks, through which but once I've stray d, If ne'er again among ye I shall rove, la the sweet presence of the hearts I love. Still on my mind, till life's brief hour is o'er, Tour charms are written — fadeless evermore ; Te maddened waters ! sts ye rush along. Tears will re-echo your undying song. And tho' afar my footsteps wander free, My pulse will quicken at the thought of thee. J. E. TiiL, New TorS, Teexton- Falls, August, 184i 458 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [cHAP. Among the immense numbers who have visited the falls from the four quarters of the world, within the past thirty years, several most heart-rending accidents have occurred, showing the necessity of care, while viewing these beautiful and wonderful works ef nature. Such accidents occur too frequently from venturing too far and attempting to reach points almost impossible of access, and at the utmost risk of life. Accidents at Trenton Falls. — On the 21st of July, 1 827, a numerous party from New York visited the falls, and among the number were several members of the family of John Suydam, Esq., of tha't city. Miss Eliza Mesier Suy dam, aged seventeen years, a daughter of Mr. Suydam, and a young gentleman, a cousin, were in advance of the party, and upon arj-iving at the projecting point just below the fall, the second above the refreshment house, and since known as 'the "Suydam fall," Miss -Suydam passed around alone, and in a moment her cousin was made aware of her sad fate by -seeing her bonnet borne down the foaming rapid. The body was not found until one or two days had elapsed, and was then taken to Utica for burial. On the -2d of August, 1830, Charles E. Bill, son of Dr, Bill of Remsen, visited the falls with a sister, two ladies, his cousins, and an uncle. While assisting the ladies around a point of rock a short distance above the lower fall, he in cautiously stepped into the edge of the cuirent,when his feet slipped and he was hurried in a standing potition over the frightful cataract, a fall of .about 40 feet. As he passed out of sight, he waved with his hand a final adieu to those who gazed in helpless agony upon his certain and rapid progress down the torrent, while his featuTes showed the full realiza- XXII.] TRENTON. 459 tion of his terrible fate, Mr, BUl's age was about 21. he was a -student at the Fairfield Medical College, and was a young man of excellent character and fine promise, and his death was mourned by an extensive circle of relatives and friends. On the 15th of July, 1836, while Mr, Herman Thorne, a celebrated millionaire of New York, then recently returned from Paris, with his family, was on a visit to the falls, a young daughter; Miss Zerlina, was drowned at the same place where Miss Suydam found a watery grave. The following account (£ the catastrophe is.copied from a New York paper : " On Friday last, Mr. Thorne was carefully conducting his wife over a narrow pass, having this fated daughter, Zer- Una, in his arms, when a faithful servant stepped up and begged permission to take charge ¦of the little girl. At first Mr. Thorne declined, but was finally induced by the difficul ty of the pass, to give the child oyer to the servant. He had . scarcely done so, and turned again to his wife, when a scream, the last ever uttered by the lovely child, burst upon the ear, and he looked tiround to see the servant struggling in the, boiling eddies, and to feel — -that his own cherished daughter he was to behold no more. The man had slipped upon the treacherous rocks, and with his charge was precipitated into the whirUng Stream. The little girl instantly disappeared. The man sustained himself until a stick was held forth, by which he was drawn from the water. Thus perished before the eyes of her parents — in the early blossom of life, ere sin had touched, or sorrow faded — Zerlina Thorne, in the eighth year of her age — described to us, by one who is himself a .father and has known affliction, as a child of such uncommon loveliness, as to attract the regard of all who approached her." -On the 2d of August, 1849, a party of six ladies and gen- 460 annals op ONEIDA COUNTY. [OIIAP. tlemen were visiting the falls, having arrived the day prece ding, and of the number were Edward and Eliza Bryan, son and daughter of Mr. Daniel Bryan, and brother and sister of John Bryan, Esq., of Utica, The party left the hotel in the morning to visit the falls, and upon arriving at the refresh ment house, the Bryans, leaving their companions, proceeded as far as the path is out in the rock and as far as any but the most venturesome ever go, and then as they were climbing around a huge pile of rock with a perpendicular face of an hundred feet, with only here and there a slight projection or crevice to assist them while hanging a considerable distance above the water, was the last that was seen of them alive. The particulars of that terrible moment will never be known until that great day when all secrets shall be revealed. Which met his or her . fate first ? and what struggles and efforts to save the other? and how long those struggles? are questions no human tongue can answer. They parted with their friends at about ten o'clock, and the watch of Miss Bryan was found stopped a few minutes before elev en. The body of Edward was found late in the evening near where he doubtless fell, and the body of the sister was found early the next morning a short distance be low. On the fourth their funeral took place at Utica, and their remains were followed to their final resting place by one of the largest processions ever witnessed in that city, in cluding almost the entire fire department, of which Edward Bryan was a member. Cavern at Trenton Falls, — The foUowing article pro ving the existence of this cavern, with a description, is copied from iheFrie-nd of Man, an anti-slavery newspaper, formerly published in Utica, The exploration was made by several gentlemen, students in the " Oneida Institute " at Whitesboro; XXIL J TRENTON, 461 " The entrance of the cavern is to be found at a distance of J)erhaps a mUe and a half from the recess directly upon the creek, on the west side, and about two hundred yards from its bank. It is on a field owned by Stephen Buffington, and has immediately around it a clump of bushes, "Before entering we entirely changed our dress, putting on old clothes which we had provided for the occasion, and taking in our hands candles, hammers, matches, etc.— =(a preparation which was afterwards found to be essential to safety,) We also left at the mouth some person to build a fire, (a precaution which we would also recommend to others for their comfort on coming out) It is not convenient for mofe than three or four persons to enter at a time. Each one should carry a candle or other light, a's it greatly facili tates the progress, and a single one is every moment liable to be extinguished. We were able to enter by stooping slight ly, but the passage immediately contracts, so that l)Ut one person can pass at a time, and that only upon his hands and knees. The way is arched in the rock above, and has in its bottom a fissure of considerable depth, in which fiows a stream' of pure water. It is nearly horizontal, in a direction towards the creek, and uniform in size, except here and there when it is partially closed by pieces of rock which have fallen from above. At a distance of about ten rods from the month, this passage opens into the upper part of a circular room about twelve feet in depth, which from its figure has been called the bottle, "It presents ndthing very remarkable, Ascendingfrom this, the passage is continued forward of the same form, and in the direction as before, for a distance of thirty yards, when it is firmly closed by rocks. Here, however, the fissure in its floor is enlarged in several places. Through one of these opeiyngs we found a passage ; and, descending in the posture 462 annals of oneida county, [chap. of a chimney sweep, through a space of fifteen feet, we came to the channel of the brook. Fbllowing this, we found a straight and narrow route, in form and course like the one above, for forty yards. Through this it is necessary to go on the hands and knees a part of the distance, and occasion ally to lie' flat down and crawl like a Serpent, carrying one arm before with the candle, and applying the other closely to the side of the body, and even with this expedient, a person of greater than or(Knary size might stick fast in the passage, and be unable to extricate himself without assistance. At length the way beeame wider, and higher, and its sides began to be covered with an incrustation of carbonate of lime, which being crystaline, presents, by the reflection of the light, a handsome appearance. Soon it expands more, and passes an apartment of considerable dimensions. Here all our toil was awarded. Our eyes were gratified with the sight of stalactites, hanging in numbers from the roof, and running in ridges like little columns along the sides. The whole sur face of the rock, and the pebbles on the fioor, are covered with an incrustation, white in some parts and brown in others, pre senting an appearance truly beautiful. The stillness which pervades this deep part of the cavern, in connection with the thoughts that we are separated from the living world above by such depth of solid rock, produces a peculiarly solemn impression on the mind, whUe the reverberation of our voices returning upon our own ears in greatly magnified notes, make a very singular sensation. "Passing still onward, the passage continues for many yards of various dimensions, and, as we crawled along, a pleasant sound as of falling water fell npon our ears ; and indeed we soon entered a cavern larger than either of those we had seen, from the side of which issued a living spring, or a brook, which, like the one we followed, has found the way xxil] trkntox. 463 trom the surface of the earth, and here faUs firom a ravine in a perfect sheet, like a cascade in miniature. This cavern was Biore heautifiid than the former. Its sparry roo& andwalU, and its white pehUes, with the water reflecting in its £aU the light of our candles, and breaking the profonnd stillness whidi would otherwise prevaU, produce an effect altogether pleasant and more easUy imagined than described. The riU m^es its iray through the rock to the creek, but cannot he foUowed more than twenty feet £rom this cascade, the 'way being then dosed by large stones. At thi.' point hones were fonndL indicating it to have been the resort of the beasts of prey. On starting to come out, our first impulse was to make extensive depredations on the encrusted walls and roof, hat the recoUection of the narrowness of the parage preven ted, and we contented onrsdves with taking one or two pieces of a foot or more in length, which we brought out singly. and filHng a bag with smaUer pieces, which we roUed along the paths before us. We arrive i safe at the mouth, oi the cavo. ha'ring been absent iwo hoars and a hal£ •• The whole distance we estioiated at three hundrea feet. I'ad air was pure, and although cold and damp, cur constant exercise kept up free eiicnlation, and we sostained no injury txj-ept the bruises we reeeived by onr heads from the rocks. TL'os. in addition to the weU-known grandeur and beauty of tha works of the Author of Nature seen in the vicinity, we have setn another curiosity foUy equal to the former, giving IB the spot new interest and greater variety. True, it is di&calt of access, bat those who enter it wdl be richly paid for tLeir labor — the lovers of adventure, by ihe novelty of s-^ romantic a journey into the bowels of the earth' Trenton 'riUaje (formerly Oldenbamevdd.) is a smaU bn; pleasant village, situated, as has been stated, near the 464 ANN4LS of tJNEIDA tJOtJiJTV. [CHAP, confluence bf the Steuben and Cincinnatus Creeks, There are two stores, two taverns, several meehanics' shops, and about sixty private dwellings. The family mansion erected by Col, Mappa, is of stone, and is equalled by but very few private dwellings in the eounty. The district school house is of' stone, two stoi'ies high, with a town hall in the upper part, and is a respectable, dtirable structure, Thel*e are three churches, Unitarian, Presbyterian,' and Methodist, Capt, John Bil lings, is the post-master at this place. He received the ap pointment in the spring of 1805, his commission bearing date the 19th of June, thereaftei', and is believed he is now the oldest post-master in the United States, An article pub lished in the Utica Observet- some two or thi'ee years since, claimed this honor for Mr, Billings, and was answered by a statement that there then was a post-master at some plaee in the Moha'wk Valley, whose commission was dated in the latter part of President Washington's administration. Since then the obituary of that post-master has been published, and it may now be fairly inferred that Trenton village can claim the "oldest post-master." South Trenton is situated in the south-east part of the town, in the valley of the Nine Mile creek. A singular circumstance eonnected with this stream is that in all. its ' course it is nine miles from Utica, uniting with the Mohawk that distance above the city. South Trenton contains about forty dwellings, and two hundred inhabitants. It has a post office, one physician, two taverns, one store, four shoe shops, two carriage shops, two blacksmiths' shops, two paint shops, one tailor, one hatness maker, and one saw mUl, It has also a flourishing division of the Sons of Tem^ perance. There are three houses for public ~ worship, viz, : a Union house belonging to the Baptists and Presbyterians, XXIL] TRENTON. 465 that of the Independent Baptists, and one belonging to the Welsh Baptists. The district school house stands on an elevation a little north of the village, in whieh about one hundred pupils . are taught, ten months in the year. The school is divided into two departments, in one of which is taught the higher branches of education, usual in academies, by competent ' teachers, thereby relieving the inhabitants from the necessity pf send ing their sons and daughters -^ibroad to complete their edu cation. The villagers, by -their laudable exertions, have raised the character of their school so high, that it has been frequently termed " the model school." The first settlers ia this part of the town, were Col. Thomas Hicks, an emigrant -from Bhode Island, John Garrett and his two sons, Cheney and Peter, from Branford, Connecticut, and Edward Hughes and Hugh Thomas, from Wales. Che ney Garrett built the first framed house in the village, whieh is yet standing on the bank of the -Nine Mile creek, Holland PATENT,-'^This was a grant of about 20,000 acres, and lies principally within the limits of the town of •Trenton. It was granted by the British crown to Henry, Lord Holland, and by him sold to Seth Johnson, Horace Johnson and Andrew Craige, Under their direotion it was surveyed and divided into lots of about 100 acres each, in July, 1797, by Moses Wright, a -surveyor, then residing in Borne, ¦ At the time the Johnsons came upon the Patent, ¦Noah Simons, who also claimed to be an owner of it, was engaged in making a survey, but soon left, and never came to the Patent afterwards. The heirs of Noah Simons have within the last twenty years been to great trouble and ex pense in tracing out the title in England, and have to their 30 456 ANNALS OF- ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. satisfaction found the record of the original conveyance to their ancestors, and which, if attended to in season, would have secured the tract to the Simons family ; upon further examination, however, they found that the Johnsons and Craige, had so long since sold the whole of their rights to the settlers, that they were barred by the statute of limitations, and have now abandoned all hopes of obtaining what they consider their just due, Seth Johnson, the senior partner of that firm, was bom in Middletown, Connecticut, November 2d, 1767, and died whUe on a visit to Holland Patent, December Sth, 1802, and was the first person buried in the burial ground he had given for the use of the settlers upon his lands, A few families moved upon the Patent previously to 1797, having purchased of Simons. The date of the first settlement can not be precisely ascertained. One of the author's infor mants was of the opinion that Holland Patent was settled a little earlier than Trenton YiUage, Of the settlers under the title of Simons, Bowland Briggs and Eliphalet Pierce only survive, and who with Eliphalet Cotes, Benjamin White and a few others long since dead, purchased of Simons, and repurchased of the Johnsons and Craige, Soon aftei the sur vey, the proprietors (Johnsons and Craige,) wishing to estab' lish an actual and permanent settlement, sold one quarter of the Patent to Bezabel Fisk. Pascal C. t DeAngelis, Hez ekiah Hulbert, and Isaac Hubbard, for the location of which these four drew shares, after selecting twolots each. In this way a nucleus was formed, around which gathered a band of hardy pioneers, the descendants of whom to this day bless their memory. They encountered many hardships, and suf fered from many wants and privations. Bears and wolves were also quite too plenty. One of these pioneers, Eliphalet Cotes, was at the killing of forty-nine bears. It was the uni- xxn.) TKENTOX. 467 form custoia when they met for pubUc worship, to take with them their guns, and on one occasion, worship was adjourned, that they mi^t repair to the neighboring forest to kUl one of the pests of the pig-sty. a hear. Mrs. Kelsey, the ¦wife of an early settler, ha'ving heen to Whitestown to dispose of some of her handy-work, on her retum hecame lost in the woods, and for the 'want of a more convenient sleeping apartment, spent the night in the top of a tree, she climbed to a sufficient elevation to save herself from being made the supper of some of the 'wUd heasts, 'which had almost imdistnrbed possession of that section of eountry. She did not very hi^dy enjoy the music of her serenaders, although they were adomed with the mustaches and whiskers so necessary to modem musical exeellence. yet she comforted herself 'with the reflection, that if she had heen less fortunate in securing a place of safety, she would soon have lost all power to listen to the music, as harsh as it 'was. Day-light, however, made her persecutors retreat, and she reached home in safety. The foUowing are obituary notices of the four persons who purchased one fourth of the HoUand Patent, and settled npon it in 1797. Hezekiah Hulhurt died whUe upon a visit to Connecticut in January. 1800, aged 50 years. Bezabel Fisk died also in Coimecticut, aged 8S years. Pascal C. I. DeAngelis, died at Holland Patent, in 1839. aged 76 years. Isaac Hubbard died in Ashtabula County, Ohio, in 1848. aged 99 years. The viUage of Holland Patent is eentralfy located on the Patent and contains sixty-five dwellings, and about 500 in habitants. It has a post-office, two stores, one tavem. four 468 ANNALS or ONEDA COUNTY. [CHAF, shoe shops, one harness shop, one grist mUl, one shingle ma chine, one cabinet shop and four physicians. Hobart Hall Academy was incorporated by the legislature in 1839, and Pascal C. I, DeAngeUs was the first President. It occupies a commodious edifice, and is under the direc tion of fifteen trustees, has a male and a female department, and is under the care of Mr. Arnold Petrie, A. B,, as prin cipal: over 120 students were in attendance the past year, and its future prospects are favorable. There are five houses for pubUc worship in the village, belonging to the Presbyterians, old and new school Baptists, EpiscopaUans and Unitarians, Leonard Pierce was the first chUd born upon the Patent, and he is now living aged 55 years. RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES, There are seventeen houses for public worship in the town of Trenton, some of whichare very handsome and commodi ous buildings. This unusually large number of religious societies wUl prevent the author's giving a very extended history of either, as to do so would fill a considerable volume. From the first settlement of the town the families of Judge Vander Kemp and Col. Mappa, were constantly in the habit of meeting together for religious services. After some time a school house was erected in which the first settlers used to meet for public worship. The Bev. Mr, Fish, a Presbyterian cler gyman and a native of New Jersey, was the first preacher who visited the tosvn. The author has not learned the exact time of his arrival, but it must have been within three or four years after the settlement commenced, for he is found xxu.] TRENTON. 469 named as the irst pastor of the Presbyterian church at Hol land Patent, which was formed in 1797. The Presbyterian church at Trenton village, was organized at an early period. Previously to 1822, the Rev. Dr. Harrower preached alter nately at the village and Holland Patent, This church ig now in connection with the Presbyterian church in South Trenton, and its services are held alternately at the village and in the union house at the latter place. The Rev, John Sherman, an Unitarian minister, came to the town of Trenton in or about tbe year 1805, and with his family removed to Trenton Falls in 1806, He was accep table to the peqple, and here became pastor of the first ehurch of that dienomination in the State of New York, and their house of worship was erected in this town in 1 8 1 4, At its organization this church numbered fourteen members.. After Mr. Sherman's resignation, whieh was soon after the erection of their house, the Rev, Isaac B, Pierce, from Rhode Island, was settled over this ehurehj and preaohedtwenty-five years, to the entire satisfaction ofthe congregation. In 1840, the Eev. Edgar Buckingham, from Massachusetts, assumed tha pastoral office for this church, which relation he still sus tains, officiating a part of the time at Holland Patent, Mr. Sherman established an academy at the village, which he sustained several years. He died at the Falls, August 2d, 1828, aged 57. He was a grand-son of Roger Sherman, the signer of the declaration of independence, and was ar man of superior education and talents. The Presbyterian church, as has been stated, was formed at Holland Patent in 1797, and Mr. Fish was its first pastor. The former records of this church are lost, so that little is known of its early history. In 1 8 12, a Congregational church was formed at the Patent, by the Rev, Elijah Norton, to which he preached as "stated supply" a short time,jind was sue- 470 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. ceeded by the Rev, Dr, Harrower, who preached for both Presbyterians and CongregationaUsts, who met together for worship at that place and at Trenton village. On the 2d of January, 1821, near the close of the labors of Dr. Harrower, in this place, the two churches united, and assumed the name of " the church of Christ in Holland Patent," This union has resulted in continued prosperity, in increasing the efficiency of the church and the number of members. In 1822, the Rev. William Goodell, was regularly installed its pastor. In 1829, Mr, Goodell was succeeded in the pastoral office by the Rev. Stephen W, Burrill, who was duly installed. The present pastor, the Rev. James W, Phillips, was installed by the pres bytery of Utica, the 12th of February, 1850. The records show 133 communicants. First Baptist Church. — This church is located at Holland Patent, and was constituted March 26th, 1812, with sixteen members, seven males and nine females. Elder Joel Butler, who was the first pastor of the Sangerfield church, was also the first minister in this church. He was a successful preach er and many were added to its numbers. In 1813, the ehurch and society erected a small but comfortable house of worship. The successive pastors of this church have been as follows : Elder Joel Butler, from '- Norman Guiteau,- " " Simon Jacobs & J. Stevens, 1820 G riffith Jones, Dyer D. Ransom, Robert Z. Williams, Nathaniel Wattles, Thomas Roberts, 1812 to 1819. 1819 " 1820. 1820 " 1821. 1822 " 1825. 1825 " 1827. 1827 « 1834. 1834 " 1837. 1837 " 1841. xxu.] TRENTON. 471 In 1840, the church had increased to over one hundred members, and their house had become too smaU for the con gregation worshipping in it A new house of stone was buUt this year, at a cost of S3000. In 1841, Elder -John DUI was caUed to the office of pastor. In 1842, an unhappy division took place, and about thirty- five meihbers retired. In 1843, during a protracted meeting their almost new house of worship was burned, but which has since been rebuUt. In 1847 and 1848, the Rev. Leland J. Huntley was pastor, and in 1849, Rev. Thomas Owens; The minutes of the Oneida Baptist Association, show that the ¦church consisted of ninety members in September, 1S50. Saini Paul's Episcopal Church. — On the 25th of April, 1S21, the Rev. Henry Moore Shaw, James Wetmore, and others, took the preliminary steps to incorporate this church at HoUand .Patent, and the records show that it was fully or ganized on the 2 1st of June, of the same year. Rev, Henry Moore Shaw was chosen rector ; James Wetmore and Abra ham Diefendorf, wardens ; and Aaron Savage, Seth WeUs, Robert McArthur, Samuel Cande, Bryant Yotmgs, John P. Warner, Samud White and Aaron White, vestrymen. The society has now a good church edifice and parsonage. There are also at HoUand Patent, a Welsh Baptist and a Welsh Congregational church, and also a society of Univer salists, who hold meetings once in four weeks. There is a Baptist chiueh, whieh meets a part of the time at Trenton, caUed the " North Deerfield and South Trenton" church. The portion of the church residing here, united with the branch of the Presbyterian church of Trenton vil lage, in erecting a union house for public worship. In IS 43, a,nd 4, Elders A P. BockweU and S. S. Hayward ; in 1 845. 472 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. Elder Nelson Ferguson; in 1847-8-9, Elder WiUiam A. Wells j and in 1850, Elder Albert Cole, were pastors of this church. It meets a portion of the time at North Gage, in Deerfield. In 1850, it reported fifty-four members. There is also at South Trenton an independent Baptist church, which has recently erected a house of worship. There is also at this place a Welsh Baptist Church, of forty members. They have a house of worship, in which they have preaching in the Welsh language, regularly every Lord's-day. At Trenton FaUs is a smaU Baptist church, which was form ed at the vUlage about the year 1833, of thirty-nine mem bers. They have a house of worship which was erected in 1838, and in which the Rev. Philander Persons preaches at present, one half the time. Elders A. F. Rockwell, John Stevens, Jesse Jones, R. Z. Williams, Van Rensselaer Waters, James Mallory and Salmon have, at difierent periods. preached to this church. There is also a a small church at Prospect, in the town of Trenton, consisting of twenty members, in which the Rev Robert Littler at present labors one-fburth part of the time. BIOGRAPHV. Doctor Luther Guiteau was bom at Lanesboro', Ma.ssa- chusetts, in the year 1778. Not a little remarkable in the history of his famfly, was their connection with the medical profession. For many generations it is well ascertained, that they had in succession famished one at least, who did credit to himself and honor to the science. There seemed to be a pecuHar adaptation. It is said ofthe Swiss that their moun- XXILJ TRENTON. 473 tains become them, and they become their mountains. With no less tmth it may be said of the Guiteau fianuly, the med ical profession becomes it, and it becomes the profession. In his youth and early manhood the subject of this notice. exhibited a more than ordinary degree of talent, as evidenced by his being frequently selected to address pubUe assemblies, on occasions of festivity and joy. His youth was also char acterized by great gentleness and amiabiUty of charac-ter : quaUties that adomed and beautified his after life. The residence of his brother, Doct. Francis Guiteau, in Utiea, a name eininent inthe early history of that city, soon attracted the attention of young Luther to this section of country. At about the age of sixteen he came to CUnton, in this county, which then afforded good opportunities for study. where he remained one or two years. Unfortunately we have no infonnation as to his success as a student, but judging from his aptitude, his thirst for knowledge, and his acquire ments afterwards exhibited, guides that wiU hardly permit oi an erroneous conclusion, he must have ranked high. He seems to have had a strong inclination (constitutional per haps), to the study of medicine. At an early period his in quisitive mind was active in the acquirement of medicai knowledge. This is shown by a dissertation on - Typhus Fever," read before the CKneida County Medical Society in after life, in which he quotes his experience in the treatment of that disease, as early as the year 1793, when about fifteen years of age. H-is professional studies were pursued under Doctor Buel, of Sheffield, (Mass..) and immediately on completing them he removed to Trenton, then Oldenbarneveld, in the year 1802. Here he commenced, and continued in the practice of his pro- fession the remainder of his life, a period of about forty-eight years. Hedied FebruM-y I2th, 1850. His death althougk 474 ANNALS OF ONEIDA -COUNTY. [CHAP. not unexpected, 'Caused an unusual.-sensation of grief through out the extensive circle of his acquaintance and practice. Of his estimation as a physician and a man, it is almost superfluous to ^eak. His well-earned reputation is both history and eulegy, while the respect and love with which he 'was regarded by the entire community, and the " sympathet' ic tear " at his loss, unerringly proclaim the wide spread pub lic estimation of his character. He was for many years President of the Oneida County Medical Society, and frequently gawe them dissertations on the important sul^ects of the profession. Although he held decided political' opinions, yet he never sought political preferment. The love of his profession was too engrossing. He however accepted from his fellow citi zens a -seat in the Legislature, in the year 1819, but he was afterwards frequently heard to say that political considera tions would never again induce him to relinquish his prac tice. In inedicine and politics Doct, Guiteau was conservative, but not to the extent of distrusting the future, or sighing for the past. He predicted for his country a glory unknown in the annals ofthe world, and fondly cherished the time when the science of medicine would be freed from xjonjecture and superstition. It was innovation as wmovation, that he dis trusted, and the ignorance and superstition that impeded the progress of truth, that he viewed with feelings akin to horror and disgust. The following grotesque description of a pre tender, occurs in an address of his to the students of the Fair field Medical College, " And shun as the bane of your pro fession, any approximation to that senseless, brainless, cold blooded, semi-vital being, denominated a quack." Doctor Guiteau loved his profession. Its (practice was, to him, from higher, holier, purer motives, than its pecuniary XXII,] TRENTON. 475 considerations. On the contrary it seemed to partake of the spirit ofthe perfocpianee of a pleasant duty. In its pursuit he sacrificed ease, demestic and social enjoyments, while his presence in the sick-room seemed accompanied with a bene diction. Much of his zeal and devotion to his profession, were the results of high reUgious principle, while its duties were performed with the spirit of a martyr. Francis Adrian Vander Kemp, L,L,D,, was born at Cam- pen, in Overyssel, one of the United Provinces of the Neth erlands, on the 4th of May, 1752. On his father's side he was descended from the distinguished families of Vander Kemps, the Bax, the Van Drongelens — and upon his moth er's side from the Leydekkers, the Huybers, the DeWittes, Lords of Haemstede, etc, etc. His father was educated for a merchant, but entered the army in 1745, and was present at the battles of Lowfelt, Roacoux, Aste and Molden. In 1747 he married Anna Catharina, only heir of Francis Leydekker, receiver-general of Tertolen in Zealand. — -His regiment was in garrison at Campen at the time of the birth of the subject of this notice, — Young Vander Kemp, after having made sufficient progress in the Dutch and French languages, was sent to the Latin school at Zutphen in Gelderland, where, al though, as he says, his " progress was ratter slow, without any brilliant proficiency," he reeeived a prize on the 14th of Jan uary 1763, From Zutphen he removed with his family to Zwolle in Overyssel,' where his studies were continued, and where, without discontinuing or abating his ardor for his stud ies, he was placed as a cadet in a company of infantry in the regiment of Holstein Gottorp in 1764 — and in 1766 he was admitted to the same rank in his father's regiment. During 476 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. these periods, and up to 1769, he devoted a good share of his time to the Latin, Greek and Hebrew, under most able mas ters. In the latter year his regiment having been ordered to an encampment where he could not pursue his studies, he de termined to solicit from the Prince of Hesse a permission of absence. Eeceiving an abrupt repulse from the Prince, he immediately asked and obtained a dismission from the service. In August, 1770, he entered the University of Groningen, where he devoted two years to Latin, Greek, the Oriental languages. Metaphysics, Natural history. Cosmology, etc., be sides private instruction in English and Italian. Of this period ho says, "my determination to leave nothing untried, to soar, if possible, above mediocrity, made me exert all my strength with a view to conquer. Ere long was my health impaired by chemical experiments, by extravagant studies, allowing myself seldom but five hours' rest, often contented with two or three, often taking no rest at all." In his third year he tacked upon his previous course, botany, ecclesiastical history, ecclesiastical law and the laws of nature, the last two under the eelebrated Vandermarck. While under the teachings of that talented professor, and amid the influences of many of his military and classic companions with their fa vorite authors, united with a hatred of the classical hierarchy and their continual usurpation, he became a partial convert to the errors of Deism — errors which found so many votaries among the learned and great of that age in central Europe. Associated with young men of the first families in the republic, nobility and gentry, arguing against the dominion of the cler gy, the rage of the latter was soon raised to a high pitch, and to them he was " a reprobate old in sin, though young in years" — although their hatred was, in fact, pointed rather against Prof Vandermarck, than against his pupil, The lat ter was called before an ecclesiastical tribunal of professors xxn.] TRENTOM. 477 and mimsters, and threatened with disgrace, unless he should abandon Vandermarck, purify his library, and resume his studies-^ which done, he should be restored to the favor and care of his friends. In his ardor and zeal for reform, his ha tred of tyranny and love for his great master, Vandermarck, he rejected these terms with disdain. He now employed his pen in a defence of his master against the clergy. During this period he formed many connexions, and opened corres pondence with learned men in Holland and other countries, chiefly among the " remonstrants." Upon Tecommendation of Prof Vandermarck he received the offer of civil employ at St, George Delmina in Africa ; shortly afterwards another to go to the West Indies as governor to a young gentleman. He says " I knew myself too well to accept the guidance of a youth, when I was scarce to be trusted to regulate my own conduct. The inhospitable coast of Delmina seemed now my only refuge, when it strack my mind that the Baptists at Am sterdam were reputed to be of extensive liberal principles ; that I was intimate with some wealthy and learned members of this community, Prof Oosterbaen of Amsterdam, the Rev, John Stinstra at Harlingen, and through his recommendation with the family of Hoofman at Haerlem — I resolved then to open my mind to Prof Oosterbaen — ask him for support to promote my studies at Amsterdam in their Seminary, if I could be admitted without compromising myself in any man ner, without constraint to any religious opinions I might adopt or foster, or adopt in future, and with a full assurance that I should be decently supported — all which was generously .ac cepted and Oosterbaen actually acted and proved himself to me a friend and benefactor, a guide and father. I thus left Groningen to remain daring the vacation at the University of Franequer, being there gratified with the rooms and library •of my friend Chaudoir, then a candidate of the Gallican 478 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [CHAI ehurch and &n a visit to his- parents. In September, 1773, 1 left that plaee for Amsterdam to enter a new course of stud ies among the Baptists. As soon as I arrived at the rooms hired for me by Prof Oosterbaen, with my small, though se lect library,, augmented by a few authors, indispensably re quired, I resolved seriously to begia my inquiry into the truth and nature of the Christian religion." With his knowledge of history, ancient and modern, civil and ecclesiastical, of ehurch antiquities and classic literature, laying aside all pre conceived prejudices,he determined toseek and embrace truth — soon, by the most assiduous study, night and day, he be came fully convinced of the truth of Christian revelation. With his Greek New Testament, aided by the lectures of Piof Oosterbaen, he soon became convinced of and embraced the leading doctrines of evangelical Christianity, and in November, 1773, he publicly professed his religious prin ciples and reeeived baptism from Van Beiaisgen, During two years he studied theology with Greek and the mathematics. On the 1 8th of December, 1 775, he was ad mitted as a candidate to the ministry, and after having re eeived calls to the care of chuuehes in Zealand, Friesland and Holland, on the 25th of July, 1776, he accepted that of Huysen, in Holland, and during that year he reeeived invita tions to become pastor of churches in Flanders. Zealand and Leyden, the latter of which he accepted, Octd^er 1, 1777. Here circumstances occurred to produce a renewal of his po litical connections in Holland and the other provinces. All •¦ the time he could spare was devoted to the laws and consti- M tution, the history and antiquities of his country. His libe ral views became well known, which his friends charged to the teachings of his old master Vandermarck, while the greatest pretended crime of the latter was that he was a disciple of Arminius. Hs now embarked inthe great reform of placing xxn,] TRENTON, 479 the liberties of his country upon a more permanent basis. In 1747, the office of Stadtholder had become hereditary in the House of Orange. Without overthrowing the House of Orange, or the orders of nobility, he believed that their in terests were not inconsistent' with, and indeed might be greatly subserved by, granting to the- people at large a real influence in the government. Eveni many of the Orange party desired radical reform*. He was urged Swward by several men of distinction (among whom was Vander Capel- len. Lord of Pol), and he piiblished several letters upon the military jurisdiction, the quotas of the different States, the rights of arbitrage, etc, etc. He says he now took upon him self the vast labor of collecting '' all which 'was valuable among the archives of my country, as weU as in the libra ries of individuals." " I perceived the forged chains which were to be riveted on the necks ©f my countrymen, and deemed it a feasible thing to break them, I perceived their insensibility and indolence, and would rouse them to vig orous and unrelenting action. I glowed with indignation when I became convinced that in the fetters prepared for the Americans, the slavery of our own country was a chief ingrc' dient. I would enlighten my parishioners by the pure knowledge of genuine gospel truth, and annihilate tha- hier archical power of the cljurch of Christ. Neitheii the difficul ties I had to struggle with, nor the obstacles I had to encounter, nor the threatening aspect of futurity, could dis courage me or shake my endeavors. Here was the Baron Vander Capellen and Vandemarseh — there Van Berckel, DeGyzelaer, Paulus, Luzae, emboldening me to proceed, while a Duqui, a Vandermarck, a Vreede, a Vanachelle made a proffer of their aid, and numbers of the worthiest of the Stadtholder's friends procured mo weapons of hardened steel with whieh to combat the monstrous hydra." 480 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAPi At this junctttre Mr. Vander Kemp, ipubUshed several works, one a coUection of tracts upon North America, in which a comparison was drawn between the -United -States and the United Provinces, -a -series of letters on the corvees or laws giving the services of the subject to the Lord, in Overyssel, etc., etc. Thislattt produced a terrible effect, and the chains of slavery feU #om the .people of that Province. For an ode pubUshed in 1789, in praise of the opposition in Friesland, a vexatious prosecution -was commenced and con tinued for nearly two years before the University Judicature. The ode was the pretext, but his other Uberal tracts, connec ted with his efforts in the cause of reform generaUy, were the real causes ofthe prosecution. His friends aU became alarm ed, and he was urged to leave the country, asylums being of fered him at Brussels, and by the French Cabinet. -He however determined to stand his ground, and proceeded to Hamburgh, where he was tried upon 1 75 articles, and after various appeals to higher powers, the prosecution was aban doned. These efforts to crush him only excited hiin to stiU greater efforts. He says, " I lashed abuse of power, wherev er I met with it, without mercy ¦^— even when threatened with incarceration. The weak-minded stood aloof, many feared to accost me in pubUc, but I gained more and more the favora ble regards ofthe first men inthe Stjte." He was hated by government and the clergy, the lower classes had not sufficient moral power or intelligence to aid him in his efforts for their amelioration, but the middle estates, possessing a large share of the talent, education and wealth of the country, seconded his efforts. In 1782, he deUvered a sermon upon 1 King,?, sii, 3-20, delineating the conduct of Israel and Reho boam — a mirror for the Prince and nation-^which was three times deUvered and twice published-^ and also published four large volumes of authentic documents, copied from X.VU.] TRENTON. 481 records and works in the archives and private libraries— and to the latter were subsequently added three volumes of the same character. This year the subject of this sketch was married to a daughter of Hon, Jacob Vos, burgomaster of Nymegen, and Lady Amira Beekman, a grand-niece of the WilUam Beekman, who emigrated to New Amsterdam (New York), in 1646, and who soon after was a Lieutenant Governor of this Prov ince. His wife's family were attached to the Stadtholder's cause. During the years 1783 and 4, he was engaged in pubUshing a series of sermons, numerous tracts upon poUtical subjects and in contributing to several liberal journals. In 1785, the crisis arrived — Mr, Vander Kemp now as sumed the capacity of a military leader in the attempted revolution, A militia was organized, and as one of the few leaders of his party, he was in some way connected with near ly every corps. His friend through life, the late Col. Adam G. Mappa, of Trenton, organized a corps, and by superior mU itary knowledge, soon brought it tmder exceUent discipline. Col. Mappa was soon raised to the command of their little army. The British influence was on the side of the Stadt holder, while France was pledged to countenance, and if nec essary, assist the repubUcans. Utrecht was revolutionized without bloodshed or disorder. Soon the Stadtholder became alarmed — a truce was soun ded — pledges of reforms and concessions were given, but alas, & fatal schism arose among the reformers, by which all w^ lost, Vander Kemp and some of his friends doubted the sincerity of the court in those pledges, while others became frightened, and were disposed to accept the terms offered. In violation of the truce agreed to on both sides, the night of -the 5th of July, 1 786, the city of Wyck, was surrounded iy 1500 soldiers, with six cannon, and two mortars. In 31 482 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. vain Vander Kemp and his few friends attempted to rouso the people, the spirit of apathy and dissension had taken too strong a hold, and by order of the magistrates the gates were opened — and whUe the troops entered on one side, he led his little band of about ninety men out of the opposite gate — remaining himself with his friend De Nys and an aged vete ran, too old tD retreat, the only representatives of their cause. This took place notwithstanding the declaration of the French Cabinet to consider the commencement of hostiUties as a declaration of war — the special pledge of protection to Van der Kemp and his friends on the part of that cabinet and the instruction of Count Vergennes to their representative in Holland On the 9th of July, a general amnesty, in which Vander Kemp was named, was published, but notwithstanding this, he was conducted to Amersfoort by a guard of dragoons, where he was placed in a pubUc buUding under a strong guard. His first act here was t-o resign the pastoral charge of his church at Leyden. Neither he nor his wife were al lowed to correspond with their friends, unless their lettei£ were first examined. Every art was tried to induce Mrs Vander Kemp to ap peal to the Stadtholder for his intercession, but she refosed, even after the soUcitation of her own brother, a member of t'ie States General A large Prussian force having entered the country, leading the patriots to hope that it would ad vance to their support, Vander Kemp was taken to Utrecht escorted as before. There he was insulted by the comman der, Gem Baron Von Munster, -with '^ and yon, sir ! with jo-ar deUc-ate pen— it was Madame lo, Princeise, you gather now the fruits." The ruling party having nothing &rther to fear, he and his fiiends were released December 19, 1787. upon condition X.KII.J TRENTON. 483 ofthe paymept of about i| 35,000, to indemnify the govern ment. He had previously determined to leave his country forever, and no entreaties could induce him to change his plans. His wife with their two children (John J. and Ber tha) and servant, visited him just before his release. The heavy ransom was paid by his friend De Nys. He was re leased in the evening, and in the same night, after embracing his wife, children and friends, left Utrecht, and arrived at Antwerp on the 21st, whence he wrote to John Adams, then • Minister of tho United States at London, His wife, after disposing of his house in Leyden, his extensive library, col leotion of statues, busts, medals and superfluous furniture,- joined him at Antwerp. His acquaintance with Mr, Adams had commenced in 1780 or 81, while the latter, as agent of the United States, was in Holland, and it is understood that he had rendered Mr, Adams very considerable services f in his efforts to procure loans for our government, Mr. -\. now furnished him letters to some of the first men in America. The Baron V, Capellen also prooured for him letters from La Fayette, to several gentlemen in the United States and he afterwards received others from Mr, Jefferson, and Count Potemkin, Ho sailed from Havre, March 25, 1788, and ar rived at New York the 4th of May, In New York he soon made tho acquaintance of Gov, George Clinton, Gen! Knox, Col, Hamilton — Mrs, Clinton and Mrs, Hamilton conversed with Mrs. Vander Kemp in Dutch (the latter understanding but two words of English — yes and no). They received the most kind attentions from all quarters. Having forwarded his letters to Gen, Washington, Dr. Franklin, Gov, Living ston of N, J,, Mr, Vander Kemp soon reoeived an invitation to visit Mt, Vernon, On his way thither he spent several days with Gov. Livingston, had an interview with the venerable 484 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Franklin, at Philadelphia, " and arrived at last at Mount Vernon, where simplicity and order and unadorned grandeur and dignity had taken up their abode." Washington approve ed of his plan for an agricultural life, and made a tender of his services, but advised his settlement in the State of New York, among the Dutch inhabitants, After visiting most of the viUages upon the Hudson and Mohawk, he settled at Esopus (Kingston), Ulster Co,, where'he remained about five years. From thence he removed in 1793, to a place named by him Kempwick, upon the north shore of Oneida Lake, where he purchased of Geo, Parish upwards of one thousand acres of land. Soon afterwards he removed to Trenton (Oldenbarneveld), where he could enjoy the society of his old friends G, Boon and Col. Mappa, Soon after the organization of Oneida County, Mr, Vander Kemp received the appointment of as sistant Justice ofthe County Court, from which he acquired the title of Judge, and his title of Dr. was received from the University in Europe, with his degree of Doctor of Laws, He continued to correspond with many distinguished men in this country and Europe, and at his residence was often vis ited by persons ofthe highest distinction of both continents. In 1818, under the auspices of Gov. De Witt Clinton, he trans lated the ancient Dutch records in the archives of our State, consisting of twenty-five folio volumes, an employment for which he was eminently qualified, by his deep learning as a lin guist and his experience in transcribing antique documents in his own country. The latter years of his life were devoted to domestic enjoys ments in the bosom of his family, and in the family of his old companions in arms, and fellow laborer in the cause of freedom Col. Mappa, and in his library, that never failing fountain to the cultivated mind. The PhUosophical Society xxu.] TEEXTC>-X 4j-5 of PhiladdpUa-the Academy of Arts and Sciences rf Boston and that rf Philosophy and Literature rf New York, adopted him as a member cf tiieir l>c*dies. and he puUished in this eountry several smaU -Rttrhs upon Theolo^cal, Historical and Sc-irniifi; qies-i:2;s. Hs iir-i at Titaioa on the Tti dav of September, 1 SiS" 486 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CIIAP. CHAPTER XXIIL UTICA. The earUest mention the author has found of the site of the City of Utica, is in certain Royal Letters Patent, granted by the authority of George II. Dsi Gratia, of Great Britain. etc. King, defender of the faith, etc., and dated the 2d day of January, 1734, "wherein and whereby'' 22.000 acres of land are granted to Joseph WorreU, Wm. Cosby Sheriff of Am boy, John Lyne, Thomas Ffreeman, Paul Richards, John Ffelton, Charles Williams, Richard Shuckburgh, Timothy Bagley, Joseph Lyne and Frederick Morris, '¦ in fee, in free and common socage as of our manor of E. Greenwich, in Kent." This Patent recites that the grantees named, by their petition received by Gov. Cosby in Council on the 13th of JiUy, in the year preceding, had stated that Nicholas Eker and sundry other Germans had in 1725, by Ucence from Gov. Burnet purchased " that tract in the Mohawk country on both sides of the river between the great flat or plain above the faU, and the land granted to the wife and chUdren of Johan Jurek Kast," also another tract beginning '• on the west Une of said granted lands, on both sides of the river running up westward to a certain creek called Sadahqueda and in breadth in the woods on both sides of the river, six EngUsh mUes," that said grantees had purchased of said Germans their right and interest in said lands, and they therefore asked Letters Patent for 22,000 acres, a part of the land so purchased of XXUI.] UTICA. 487 said Germans. The Patent then proceeds, " in obedience to our royal instructions to said Governor of New York, etc., at St. James, the 19th of May, 1732, and by the said WUliam Cosby, Governor, etc, and George Clark, Esq,, Secretary of said Province, Archibald Kennedy, Esq,, Receiver General, and Cadwallader Colden, Esq., Surveyor General, Commis sioners for setting out land to be granted, have set out to the said Joseph Worrell and others, a certain tract in the county of Albany, on both sides of the Mohawk river, beginning at a point on the south side of said river on the west side of a brook called Sadahqueda, where it falls into said river, and thence S, 38 deg, W, 238 chains, thence S, 52 deg., E. 483 chains, thenee N. 38 deg., E. 480 chains, thence N. 52 deg.j W. 483 chains, thence S. 38 deg., W. 242 chains, to the plaee of beginning," and thence proceeding in the usual form of a Patent or Deed, reserving to the crown all gold and sUver mines, and trees fit for ship timber and masts, and the yearly rent of two shiUings and six pence, for each one hundred acres, and binding the grantees to cultivate three acres in every fifty, within the next three years, and concluding, "Witness our well beloved William Cosby, Captain General and Gov ernor in chief of New York, New Jersey, and the territories thereto depending in America, Vice Admiral of the same and Colonel of our army at Fort George, in the city of New York, the 2d day of January, 1734." This tract thus granted was afterwards known as Cosby's Manor, upon a portion of which Utica stande. The next mention of the locality of Utiea, found by the author is in the minutes or '' Itinerary " of a French spy from Canada, who traversed the region from Oswego to Schenectady during the " old French war," to wit, in the year 1757. He entitled his report thus: " Itinerary from the mouth of the river Chouegen (Oswego,) in lake Ontario, to 488 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. fCHAP. lake Oneida, thence up Vilcrick (Wood Creek) to the sum mit level which is the source of the river of the Mohawks or des Agnies, by which we can descend to Corlar or Cheneetedi, which Albany or Orange can be reached." After describing the route from Oswego to Rome, the spy then takes the road from the latter on the south or right side of the Mohawk leading to Schenectady. He says : " leaving Fort Williams" (the predecessor of Fort Stanwix, Rome), " there is a road that unites with that by which horses and cattle pass from Fort Kou- ari (Fort Herkimer), opposite the mouth of the West Canada Creek and Chouagen. This road is bad for about four leagues after leaving Fort Williams. The country is mar shy — Carriages (les trains) travel it in winter and during the summer, and it ean easily be passed on horseback at all tlmeS) though in some places there is a great deal of mud. After these four leagues, carts can easily go as far as Fort Kouari. Having travelled four leagues on this road, which is five leagues from Fort Kouari, we come to the forks of two roads, one of which to the left, leads to the Palatine's village (Herkimer), by fording the Mohawk River." This language is somewhat ambiguous, and there is an evident discrepancy as to distances, still the ford mentioned was doubtless at or near the foot of Genesee Street, Utica. During the revolution the fording place across the Mohawk was at the site of the present bridge at the foot of Genesee Street, and it is proba ble that the road to the river on the north side, and the ford were the same which had been used for forty or fifty years before, rather than the supposition that they had been chang ed in the then wilderness state ofthe country. The venerable Mr. Harter, of Deerfield, now ninety years of age, and a na tive of Herkimer, recollects having visited Deerfield Corners frequently, several years prior to the Revolution, and he lo cates the ford whero the bridge now is, and a short distance vv~] mci. 4? 9 abc ~e F z-n .? :-iuyier. whieh. he savs. ttslS erc-cted to guard tit fiSsa-ze ic-r:*s the river. Tae author has not duz -up these twr. refer^ii:-^ t? the CTnusd and soil upon -vduefa L'tiea stan-is. because he thinks t_e- fin%^adowed or were pro^betie rf the beandful and tiiriTing eity no-s- spread •'.¦^x upon th^n, but. may be. tc- enrfV that innate propensity for tracing oorsdves and our tiling-? baek to their origin, or. may be. froma defire torec-ord -:-3.etting old enough to p:«ssr all these reasmis put together. He is TOO conversant widi ilie sentimeni rf the eomitij, to- sttiirr with iihat his eyes hare seen, not to know that Utiea i? indebted for what die is to the energy and peiseveranee rf the last and f resent generations rf Iict citizens, and net i'- any natriril advantage rf location, or power for driving ma- ehicery. or ridmess rf sraL nta- to any thing whieh men long since gone from the earth and fingottai, ever did, c-r deign ed f >r ler. Ti; - Itinoary " rf the ^ry gave a minute description rf every loraSeation. fistified dwelling and ¦z.tlier object of in terest t9 an invadiBg fcr'K. between Osw^oandtbe Hudson. sad upon both sides rfthe Mdianrk, and from 'whidi it seenis tliere was no f<»tij&Bition upcm tiie site rf Utiea. in 1757. as r : tie is ntentioned. Iieaving Vott Williams and taking the path on thenorth side rftheMc^mrk, l^^ys. -is estimated t) be twelve leagues." * • * -This paih leads over hills and small mountains, amd can be traveled ndy rfoot or on horseback. £i^it leagues must be traversed by this path befme reaching the fwks rf the bi»b road fhat eomes from the ctker side or rig/U bani rf the river." The name rf the sile rf Utiea in the Onoda taa^ae is Ta-ntm-da-da-sis. i e. around the kill. The a'a in the syl- 490 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. lable Ya and first £^a have the ordinary long sound, the a in the second 6?a has the sound as xa. fatlier, and the syllable is fully accented, but there are, as in case of most Indian naraes. a variety of pronunciations of the word, even by natives of Oneida. The author took the opportunity of their presence at the Mechanics' Fair in Feb. 1851, to ask the Oneida chief, Beech Tree and two other younger Indians, to give the pro nunciations of this name. Each of them pronounced it very many times, both before and after consulting among them selves as to the manner of doing it, and the author wrote it then, U-nun-da-da-ges. The first syllable seemed a mere deep aspiration and was caught by the ear with much difficul ty — the second, third and fourth syllables were pronounced as above, and the last like ges or jes or zis orj soft or z. In the first instance above, the author has followed Mr. Jlorgan in his " League of the Iroquois." As given by him the name in the Seneca dialect is Nun-da-da-sis, in the Cayuga De-o- nun-da-da-sis, in Onondaga None-da-da-sis, in Mohawk Ya- ya-none-da-ses, and in the Tuscarora, Ya-nun-na-rats. -'Vf- ter Fort Schuyler was in ruins, the place was called Twa-dah- ah-lo-dah-que, i. e. ruins of old fort. The author beiug in doubt as to his orthography of the word, asked one of the na tives above mentioned to write it, who wrote as follows : Twa- kn-hen-ro-ta-que ! saying however that the author's pronun ciation as above was correct. The close of 1758, Fort Schuyler was erected upon the south bank of the Mohawk, and named in honor of Colonel Peter Schuyler, an uncle of Gen. Philip Schuyler of the Rev olution. Lord Chatham having taken a plaoe in the minis try of Geo. II., a new spirit was infused into afiairs, and the most energetic measures were adopted for retrieving the losses of previous years in the prosecution of the war with France. This fort was designed to guard the fording place just above xxm.] UTICA. 491 it in the Mohawk, and to form one in the ehain of posts be tween Fort Stanwis and Schenectady. These forts gene raUy contained smaU garrisons, whose duties were to inter pose a check npon advancing parties of French and Indians, to exert an influence O'rer and protect the six nations, and furnish scouts fbr traversing the forests between the Mohawk and Canada. By the achievemente which soon foUowed : the ^ing rf Ticonderoga, Crown Point, Niagara, Quebec, ete . the " old French 'war " was brought to a close and Fort Schuyler doubtless soon became useless and tenantless. Tte trails of the Fort were composed of earth ¦which inclosed but a small area and were probably surmounted by pickets. It stood between Main Street and the Mohawk, just below Sec ond Street. A block house was erected at some period pre viously to the close of the revolution, which stood upon the site rf the depot rf the Utiea and Seheueotady Eail Road and ¦was occupied by Moses Bagg, sen., as a blacksmiths' shop far a time between 1T90 and ISOO. The Edinburgh Encyclopedia, Ameriean edition, says that this fort " was also the scene of several skirmishes between the Indians and the whites, the flats rf the Mohawk and the country adjoining, being the po^es&ion of the Mohawk triba" Nottrithstanding this may be true, the author has found neither records nor traditions confirming it, and from the time rf its erection the Mohawks were the firm Mends of the English, It is believed that the fort was not garrisoned in the revolution, but may have been temporarUy occupied by troops in their passage to and from Fort Stanwix and the Indian eountry. From an attempt made in the revolution to change the name of Fort Stanwix to Schuyler, some con fusion in historical reminiscenses has been created, some transactions having been located by those unaccpiainted with this fact at the site of Utica which should have been at Fort 41^¦2 AXNALS OF ONEIDA COUXTY. [CHAP. .Stanwix. In 1762. Cosby s manor was .surveyed by Chris topher Yates. On the 31st ot August. 1786, John B. Bleecker, one of the proprietors, completed a survey of the manor and a map rf the same, upon which wa.s designated aU the original lots, and by which the land was divided between Messrs. Schuyler, Bleecker, Bradstreet's heirs and Scott. The manor extended from the month rf the Sauquoit Creek, ea.st- wardly upon the Mohawk eleven nules and seventeen chains. by six nules wide, being three mUes on each side rfthe river. The lots are about sixteen to seventeen rods wide and three mUes long. The city of Utica according to its present limits is bounded on the east upon or near the east Une rfgreat lot No. >z. and on the west by the west line rf great lot No. 99. Nos. 82, 92, 93 and 94 bdonged to J. R. Bleecker, Nos. 83, 84 and 55 to J. M. Scott. Nos. 56. 87, 55. 98 and 99 to Gen. Sehuyler, Nos. 89. 90, 91, 95. 96 and 07. to Gen. Brad street's heirs. Lot No. 92 extends to a point near the west end of Broad Street basin bridge, No. 93 to a point a few feet east rf First Street canal bridge, No. 94 extends to a line a few feet east rf Charlotte Street, and strikes the east line rf Genesee Street near the south-east comer of Genesee and Catharine Streets, No. 95 extends to a line a few fieet east of Broadway. No. 96 extends to a line b^jinning near the head rf State .Street, and thence nortii npon the line between the Cooper and Huntington property, cros.sing the canal a few rods west of the foot rf Cornelia Streit, No. 97 extends to the south-east comer rf Varick and Fayette Streets, No. 9 5 extends to the east side rf the Vulcwi Works, and No. 99 ex tends to the line of Whitestown. According to Bleeeker's map of 1756, it appears that clearings had then been made on lot No. 5i6, designated as McNamee and Abm. Broome's ^improvements " lying on both sides rf the Plate Kill, fliat the " old fort '" was upon lot No. 93. that two houses belong- xxm.] UTICA. 493 ing to Cunningham and Damuth stood upon lot No. 94, (at lower end of Genesee Street,) that the house of Mr. Chrisman stood upon lot No. 95, and that McNamee had an " improve ment" upon lot No. 96. These houses, clearings, etc., were upon or near the old road to Fort Stanwix, corresponding nearly with Main and Whitesboro Streets. TJie author's father removed past old Port Schuyler to Dean's Patent (in Westmoreland), in January, 1787, and he many times said " there were three log huts or shanties, thon near the old fort," which dwellings must have been built in 1786, or previously, Most, or all of the notices of Utica heretofore printed, have stated that the place was first settled in or about 1788 or 89, but truth will allow two, three or more years to be added to its age. By the Bleecker map, Nail Creek is named " Nagal Kill." Some twenty-five years age Mr. Joseph Masseth, a German, established a " dog nail factory " as it was called, upon the banks of Nail Creek, for the manufacture of wrought nails. His bellows were blown by two dogs, who in turn ran in a wheel after the manner of modern dog churns, and a description of his factory (at first a mere shanty) went the rounds in most of the newspapers ofthe United States. Mr. Masseth now resides in West Utica, having obtained a hand some competency from his " dog naU factory," and it is very generally believed that Nail Creek received its name from these cireumstances. But " Nagal Kill " is German and Dutch, and translated means NaU Creek, thus showing it an ancient name, but from what or when it received the name, or what kind of a " Nail " was intended, will doubtless ever remain a mystery. On the 7th of March, 1788, the town of German Flats, Montgomery County, (Tryon County formed March 12, 1 772, from Albany, name changed to Montgomery in 1784.) was divided, and the town of Whitestown formed, with less than 494 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. 200 inhabitants. The new town was bounded on the east by a line crossing the Mohawk at the fording place near the house of John Cunningham, which stood near the site of Bagg's Hotel, at the lower end of Genesee Street, and run ning thence north and south to the bounds of the State and included aU west of that line. Upon the formation of Oneida County, in 1 798, this east line was thrown eastwardly to the present Une of the city and county. Utica is situated in latitude 43 deg, -6 min,, and longitude 1 deg. 41 min. east from the meridian of Washington. The late William Alverson, father-in-law of Theodore S. Faxton, Esq., came with his father Uriah Alverson to old Fort Schuyler in 1788, and the latter leased a portion of lot 98, of Gen. Schuyler. He erected a house upon the site of the boat yard, now owned by Messrs. Penfield and Dean. At this time a family named Morey, Philip the father, and Solomon, Richard and Sylvanus his sons, from Rhode Island, were living as squatters on lot 97, and Francis Foster was then a squatter on lot 96. A man named Silyea was also a squatter at a very early period near the fort. Sylva nus Morey and Mr. Russell in 1789, purchased Foster's ''bet terments" or "improvements," on lot 96, to use new country terms, and they in turn sold in 1790 or 91, to Joseph Soule, who subsequently took a contract for the land of Judge San ger, the agent of the Attorney for the executor of some ofthe de-sdsees of Gen. Bradstreet. Soule subsequently sold his in terest to James S. Kip, who took a deed from Evans and Gould. Deacon Stephen Potter arrived in April, 1790, and purchased the whole of lot 97, but soon sold parts of it to other settlers. (Some particulars as to first settlers may be found in the subsequent account of the titles to real estate.) Neither the soil nor its location, at an early period, held out inducements to emigrants to settle at this plaee. Nearly all XXIII.] UTICA. 495 the ground now built upon, was then an almost impassible swamp. All that was then anticipated was to make the place a " landing " upon the Mohawk, and as the adjoining country was cleared up and this stream became smaller, its prospects were greatly improved by its being at the head of navigation. The first business men of the place could only hope that the ' village of old Fort Schuyler would be the port of the cities of Whitestown and New Hartford, They consequently kept close to the banks of the river, and for many years the busi ness part of the place was that part of the " Genesee road " below the line of Main Street and the " Whitestown road " and the banks of the river. The residences of those who did not live in the same buildings with their shops, stores, etc., were scattered along upon Main and Whitesboro Streets, The old Indian path from Ya-nun-da-da-sis (site of Utiea) to Ga-no-wa-lo-hale (Oneida Castle) here intersected the road from Ska-na-tat (Albany) to De-o-wain-sta (the portage from the Mohawk to Wood Creek), and made it a natural and convenient location for a trading house for the Indian trade, John Post, the first merchant in what is now Utica, was engaged for some years previously to 1790, in connection with Mr, Martin, of Schenectady, in trading with the six na tions, particularly in the purchase of ginseng, then exported in large quantities to China, as a supposed remedy for that fatal disease the Plague, Mr. Post was born at Schenectady in December, 1748, and faithfully served his country during the entire period of the war of the Revolution, He be longed to the staff of the army, and was at the taking of Bur goyne, in Sullivan's expedition, in the battle of Monmouth, and at the surrendry of Cornwallis, In the spring of 1790, having purchased and leased real estate near old Fort Schuyler, upon Cosby's manor, he removed thither. With his wife and three infant cbildreu and a carpenter, placing a 496 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. stock of merchandize, furniture, provisions and buUding ma terials in boats, he embarked upon the Mohawk at Schenec tady, and in eight or nine days landed at his new home. So deep was the mud in the road, now Genesee Street, that the children had to be carried to the log palace previously erect ed, where they all arrived " cold and uncomfortable," The persons then residing here were Uriah Alverson, John Cun ningham, Jaeob Christman, and Widow Damuth, and their families, and probably some others named elsewhere, or whose names have not been ascertained, Christman served as a boatman for Mr, Post several years, and removed to or near the farm now owned by Colonel Nicholas Smith, in the east part of the town. In a communication recently reoeived by the author from Mrs, Petrie, a daughter of Mr, Post, she says : '¦ As the place was then much resorted to, my father sold lots to mechanics and traders. The first settlers were men wanting in energy and enterprise, and he re-purchased the lots of them, and soon sold to others, who also proved in efficient in building up the plaee, which my father fancied would — must, considering its location, in due time, command much trade. Again he re-purchased the lots, and he did not wait long before he, a third time, sold them to such men as became permanent residents and acquired a competency." At first Mr. Post kept his goods for sale in his dwelling, but in the next year (1791) he erected a building for a store, where he had an extensive trade with the Indians and the early settlers of the surrounding country. Of the Indians he purchased furs, skins and ginseng, (called by them Ka- lon-dag-gough, the panax trifolium]) in exchange for rum, paints, cloths, powder, shot, ornaments of various kinds, beads, small mirrors, etc., etc. It was a common occurrence that thirty or forty Indian men, women and children remained at his house through the night, and if the weather was cold XXIIL] UTICA. 497 they occupied the fioor in front of the immense kitchen fire of logs, but in summer they lodged in the barn, or if too drunk to get into the barn, then they lay upon the grass plats by the side of the log and brush fences near the corner of Gen esee, Whitesboro and Main Streets. Mr. Post is said to have been a man of most strict integrity and great kindness of heart, but the " light of our day " had not shown him the great wrong he inflicted upon the poor natives, by gratifying their unconquerable passion and thirst for " fire-water " in the shape of New England rum. The store, owned and oc cupied by Mr. Post, stood upon the northerly corner of Gen esee and Whitesboro Streets, upon or near the site of the store now occupied by J. E. Warner & Co., and he also sub sequently had a store at Floyd, and another at Manlius. While here, and under the influence of rum, the Indians frequently engaged in bloody fights, were frequently turbu lent and troublesome, and sometimes showed their knives when none but Mrs. Post and her children were in the house. In or about 1792, the celebrated Saucy Nick entered the dwelling-store with another Indian, and learning that Mr. Post was absent, they demanded in most imperious and in sulting tones of Mrs. P., pipes, " backer " and rum, Nick at the same time drawing his knife struck it into the countei handle up, and also shut the door of the room. .As they were about compelling Mrs. P. to draw more rum, she found an iron rod upon tho floor, and seeing a hired man, named Ebenezer Henderson, passing the window, she called him in. Nick would not permit him to enter until he told him that he was called to get more rum. Mrs. P. then directed the man to throw the Indians out of the house, she at the same instant striking the knife beyond their reach with the rod. and with her assistance, her order was literally obeyed. Nick ever afterwards treated the family with proper respect. At 32 498 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CIIAP. another time, Mrs. P. interfered to put an -end to a fight among several Indians who had passed the night by the kitchen flre, when one of them rushed toward her with his knife. She seized a chair with' -whidi she defended herself, until another Indian came to her'reKef by attacking her ad versary. These instances" are gi-yen to show the perils aud dangers under whieh the pioneers rf this country began the work of reelaimiBg the forests to the use of civilized man, and as a few of the many instances which might be given of the spirit and courage of the women of those days. Mrs. Petrie says: "As ours was the first house which eould accommodate travellers, a sign was put up, though re luctantly, and my father kept tavern no longer than until some one with means, etc., could be prevailed ou to deave a more" privileged place to settle here, for the sole purpose of keeping a tavern. In those days men in that business were very independent, and if travellers or 'movers' wished to- ' put up' at a tavern, they had to help themselves, water their own horses or oxen, harness or yoke them again, and if they asked to be served with aught, the fendlord or his family would sometimes ask, ' who was your waiter last year 1 ' Sometimes, if persons did not look well to themselves, they received rough words and usage from these baek-woods land lords."^' Afthat period, a sort of independence prevented the Yankees from doing anything whieh had the appearance of service. While Mr Post kept a tavern, upon ene occasion, the celebrated Indian Chief, Joseph Brant, became his guest for a night. Brant was- on his way to Canada, from the'seat of government, where he had been to transact some business with Congress. A Mr. Chapin and another gentleman were also guests-at the same time with him. The Chief called for one bottle of wine after another, until they were all ina pretty happy mo6d, when the Wo gentlemen declined drinkingany xxiil) UTICA, 499 more. After being repeatedly urged to drink, and as often de clining, they were told by Brant sportively, that unless they drank he would pour it down their necks. Becoming somewhat mettled at their decided refusal. Brant made some other proposition to Mr. Chapin, and from something said or re fused to be done by the latter, the Indian flew into a tower ing passion. Angry words passed, and Brant dared Chapin to fight him, which the latter refused, and then tried by fair words and persuasion to satisfy the chief that no insidt had been intended, but failing in this, he made an effort to leave the room — and the rest of the company also attempted to calm the excited passions of the great Mohawk warrior. Brant however drew his sword, and drove Chapin into a cor ner of the room, and there by the most bitter taunts and re proaches, by making passes at him with his weapon, and by rushing furiously towards him, attempted to compel him to fight. Chapin coolly bared his breast and said, " I will not lay hands upon you, but here is my bare breast, pierce it with your sword, if a victim you wish." Mrs, Post, at this crisis, recollecting to have heard that an Indian could be moved by the sight of an infant, instantly took her youngest child, but a few months old, and holding it in her arms, placed herself in front of the infuriated Brant, telling him that he must destroy her and her child before he injured their guest and friend. " How would it have looked," she continued,. " if sev eral ladies had met here for a social visit, and they had ended it in strife ? Put up your sword, and here, take my babe and hold it as you often have the others — see, it smiles and you look so angry I " The heart of the savage Thayendanegea was touched, he, who had revelled in scenes of blood and cru elty at Oriskany, and in the whole extent of the Mohawk valley, was now conquered by the smiles and innocence of an infant. The expression of his features was instantly changed, 500 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CIlAP. and laughing, he exclaimed, " what a fool I have been ! Cha pin, let us forgive each other.'' After this reconciliation, they retired. Mr. Post was not present, but this scene "was wit nessed by Mrs. Post and her children. July 13, 1792, Mr. Post purchased of the representatives of Gen. Bradstreet, eighty-nine and a half acres of lot 95, which now includes the heart of the city, and he had a lease of twenty-five years of a small piece of lot 94, where his store stood. Doing an extensive business, he was apparently pros perous, and doubtless in a few years amassed a considerable property. He had taken as a partner his son-in-law, Giles Hamlin, and in making collections they had received a large amount of wheat, pork, etc., to take to market, with which, and a large sum in bank notes, they intended to purchase largely for their several stores. This was in 1806 or 7, and a most disastrous fire swept away the whole, goods, money, etc., in a few minutes. Not more than $ 100 of the whole Avas saved, and Mr. Post was ruined as to property. In the decline of life, with a family of seven daughters, he could not recover from the blow, nothing but a mere pittance could be saved, and broken in spirits, infirm from age, Mr. Post ended his days in penury and want. In view of his revolutionary surviees, and his efforts to build up Utica in its infancy, he sometimes felt he ought to have been spared at least a home in the place. The Masonic Lodge, of which he had been an iiffieer, aided him with a small sum on two Occasions. He died December Gth, 1830. Mr. Post erected a warehouse of wood, three stories high, npon the river, and afterwards another of brick, which stood a few rods above the Mohawk bridge, at the foot of Genesee Street. It is now but a few years since that part of the brick warehouse left standing by time and the floods wa.s taken down, the last relic of the navigation of the Mohawk. X.VIU.] UTICA. 501 -lie owned several boats which were employed during the sea son of navigation in taking produce, etc.. to Schenectady, and briugingjback merchandize and the families and effects of persons removing into'the new country. After awhile he fitted up three stage-boats, the Accommodation, the Diligence and another, with oil-cloth covers, scats, etc., for the accom modation of travellers between Utica and Schenectady, -vfho preferred this mode to wagons and afterwards stages, over rough and muddy roads. Mr. Post was the first post-master in this place, but hold the office but a few years. In or soon after 1794, the following persons resided in this place, and probably others whose names, or the dates of their removal thither, have not been ascertained, viz : Deacon Ste phen Potter, farmer — date of his purchase given elsewhere — the father of the late Wm. F. Potter. He was an excellent man and citizen, a devoted Christian, and one of the founders of the first Presbyterian church. He died September 18,1810, aged 72 years, and Sarah, his widow, died March 18, 1812. aged 72 years. Moses Bagg, senior, opened a tavern upon the site of the present Bagg's hotel, an establishment known by his name as far as any tavern in the country. He work ed for a time at his trade of a blacksmith. He died Sept. 12, 1805, aged 68 years, his wife having died the 21st of March preceding, aged 65 years. John House kept a tavern for some time, on the corner of Genesee and Main Streets. fronting the " wood- market " square. His oldest daughter became the wife of Myron Holley, a man distinguished iu western New York in the days of anti-masonry, Gurdon Burchard was a saddler, and many years afterwards kept the tavern known by his name, upon the site now occupied by the McGregor House, and after whom Burchard Street was named. This tavern was destroyed during the great firCj March 31, 1837, Mr. Burchard died of cholera, August 18^ 502 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY, [CHAP. 1832, Messrs. John Hobby and Simeon Jones were black smiths, and Mr, Hobby occupied a shop which stood upon or near the site of the eastern Rail-road depot. James P. Dorchester, hatter, had a shop on the westerly side of Gen esee road, the second above the corner of Whitesboro Street, and Mr. Eggleston, a cooper, had a shop a little above, and opposite Dorchester's. These were probably all the buildings on Genesee above the line of Whitesboro, except House's tavern and the store of Stephen Ford opposite. Mr. Ford died soon afterwards and his widow became the wife of Mr. Alverson. Peter Smith had a small log store near the river, and east of Genesee Street. In 1793, he erected a pot-ashery npon the creek, where the gulf basin now is. He also erected the dwelling afterwards occupied by Judge Miller, in which he resided a short time. On the 19th of July, 1794. Evans and Gould SQld lot 90, containing 400 acres, to James S. Kip, who sold 117 acres to the late Judge Apollos Cooper, April 11,1 795. About this time (1794), J. S, Kip built a small log house near the east end of Main Street, and near the site subsequently occupied by the elegant residence of Hon, Morris S, Miller, above men tioned! (This once beautiful residence has been occupied for years past by negroes, and the very dregs of the city, and having become untenantable even for them, is being demol ished.) Mr. Kip established a landing upon the river nearly in front of his house, at the mouth of Ballou's (Gulf) creek, wishing to draw the commerce of the river, and the naviga tion thereof, to that part of the town. For many years Mr. Kip was one of the most prominent men of the place. He was sheriff of the county several years, and held other impor tant posts. He erected the finest mansion in the place at the time, of cut stone, on the westerly side of Broadway, a short distance south of where the Erie Canal was afterwards xxin.] iTicA. 503 constructed. The canal, however, mined the gmnuds around it^ aud flowed into the cellar, and upon its enlargcmeut, the house had to be taken down. Mr, Kip died August 27, 183 1, aged 64 years. Thomas and Ais^ustus Corey. fsumers, purchased 28jO aejes of lot 95, Jvlj 5, 1791. -md resided on the northerly side rf Whitesboro Street, a low rods ¦west rf Oxmosce. and Nov. 2, 1795, they sold out to Messrs;. Boon and Linoklaen, agente rf the Holland Land Company. This land, or a par4 rf it, sras more generaUy known to tlie early settlors asthe Hotel lot, as the HoUand Company ercctod upon it thfi first brick house in the plaee. the large hotd, known many Yo;irs as the York House, now tlio three story double dwdling house, next above the Bank ivf Utiea and IJ otcl::i»trci>t, -vras laid out upon this laud. The r^ite of the York House w;is probably at one time the largest jind deepest flag peud within the bounds of the village. Tbo ? ""oreys remtired re parts unknown, and the author has fvwnd :>:> farther tracesrfthem. I>r. Samuel Carrington, one of the ¦;-s riiost phyeieians in tho plaoo. resided a short ^stance up ^Vhitosboro ^ treet from Gi.mesoo, and being unmarried board- kxI with his sister, Mrs. Foster, she widow rf a Pro^bvterian lergymau. Dr. Carrington rosidod iu the place as early :!¦; shIs time (1794). In ISOO. Dr. 0. kept a store for the salo <'f drugs, paints, dve-stufis, and ¦• books on subjocts worthy 5 lio attention of every persosi," oto,, etc., and in hie advor- tisomont iu the CW«w&Vm («ir<#fr, pubUshed at Rome, in 1 hat year, he says, " all which he is determined to ss-U for vor\ low prices, for n?ady pay, having found from sad esperionco that credit is the bane of trade, he declines gnu^ng that iu- dulgenee in future, and would rather cry -ever, than after his i:\iods. ' He was the secend post-master in the viUitge, and was succeeded by Dr. Hitchcock. Iu ij9l. Peter BellinfEir pusehasod 150 irrcs.a part of lot 501 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CMAP. 89, and not far from this time, and aocording to some aoootmts as early as March, 1788, Col, John Bellinger beoamo a resi dent of -the place. Ho was a native of tho Mohawk valley, had befen a soldier in tho Revolution, and was at the Oris kany battle,' as was his brother-in-law, Mr, Smith, tho father of Col, Nicholas Sraith, now one rf tho oldest residents of the city. In 1783, tho father 'and mother of Col, Smith were kUled at Herkimer, by Indians and tories, whUe ho and n brother and sister, all very young, were in tho fort at that plaoe. The Colonel was thon adopte'd by his unele, Col, Bellin ger, and when under ten ye'ars of age came to this plaoo with him, whoro ho has ever since resided. Ho still preserves, with much caro and voneration, tho fowling-pieco used by hi.^i undo at Oriskany, Col, Bollinger died October 9, 1 8 1 5, aged fifty-fivo yeare. According to somo accounts, the daughter of Col, BeUinger, afterwards tho wife of Joshua Ostrom, and mother of Henry B. Ostroiia'of this oityi was the first white person born in the place. The next sis or eight years from this time, down to about tho year 18G0, made many changes in the population, business and appoaranoo of tho place, A law was passed March 28, 1797, authorizing the raising of 8 45,000 by lotteries, to bo expended in improving various - roads in this stato, of which S 2,200 were appropria,ted to the improvement of the " great Genesco road " between " old Fort Sclraylor " and Geneva, and f 400 were dirooted to bo paid to John Postj Nathan Smith and Isaac Brayton, for erecting a bi'idgo over tlie Mohawk at oldFort Schuyler, This was doubtless thefirst bridge over the Mohawk at the foot of Gen esee Street, In tho summer of 1 792, a bridge was built across the river between First and Second Streets, but whioh ¦was not probably a very durable strnoturo. The location and construc tion of tho Seneca turnpike from this point westward and the erection of this bridge were among the first movements whioli XXIII.j UTICA. 505 gave Utica a start, and secured for it a share rf the business theretofore monopoUzed by Rome asud other places, in tho vicinity. The late Jason Parker was one of the earlier residents of the place, and arrived probably about the year 1794. By an act passed March 31, 1804, the exclusive right was granted to Jason Parker and Levi Stephens, of running stage wagons from Utica to Canandaigua, under certain re strictions and regulations for seven years from tho first of June, then next. Two trips were to be made in each week ; no more than five cents per mile could be charged for con veying passengers ; no more than seven full-grown persons could be taken .at onee in any stage without the unanimous consent of those aboard ; if there were four persons more than a stage load they were entitled to an extra ; four stages and teams were to be kept on the road in use, or ready for use ; and between June 1st and October 1st, the trip was to be made in forty-eight hours. The first mail to this place was conveyed by Simeon Pool, in 1 793, under an arrangement with the post-office depart ment, authorizing the transportation of the mail from Cana joharie to Whitestown, a distance of fifty miles, the inhabi tants upon the route paying the expense. The post-rider was allowed twenty-eight hours to make a trip, and the same to return. This contract soon passed into the hands of Mr. Parker, and he carried the mail for a time on horseback, his wife sometimes taking his place, when he could be more profi tably engaged in other employments. Thus he commenced, by such humble beginnings, a business which, within his life time, was increased to one of the largest business organiza tions ever formed in the place. At the- time of his decease there were eight daily lines of stages running through Utica east and west, besides twelve daily, semi- weekly or weekly- 5'GS ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. 3 ines running north and south, with the departure and arri val of li08 stages with sixty mails weekly, in most of which he was or had been interested. Besides these were two daily lines of packets upon the canal to Schenectady, and one to Buffalo and one to Syracuse. Shortly prior to the year 1800, Mr. Parker resided in a small Ickg house upon Main Street, a little west of First Street. Utica was greatly indebted to him for her extraordinary means of intercourse with various parts of the state. Mr. Parker died Sept. 28, 1830, aged .sixty-seven years. Bryan Johnson, the father of Alexander B. Johnson, ar rived at this village, July 4, 1797, from England. lie was •so well pleased with the position of the village, then called old Fort Schuyler, that he made it his residence, though when he came he intended to merely rest a few days and proceed to Canada. The day he arrived, being the anniversary of in dependence, a public dinner was given in a grove, in rear of where the York House before named, was subsequently erect ed, and an oration was pronounced by Francis A. Bloodgood, then just out of his clerkship, and about commencing the practice of law in the jilace. The village had, however, two lawyers already, Nathan Williams, afterwards circuit judge, and Erastus Clark. At this time if such luxuries as loaf sugar, green tea, etc., were required, and if the smaller stocks of the merchants here were exhausted, they eould be obtained of William G. Tracy, at the older settlement of Whitesboro. (Jlark and Fellows then kept the largest store in Utica, and John Post kept goods mostly for Indian trade. The nearest market for the sale of wheat and potashes in considerable ^juantities, was at the store of James and Archibald Kane, at "0« ("^untry, and was reswrtiod to by persons Tfho fead produce to >«U, or who dttsirtd to aiak« eonsidxwaUe purt^ases, asd they transacted a vory extensive bnsiness iu both parehasiug and viou»ly used as a black- -«aiith's shop, which stood opposito tho sit« rf the Mo^l^OJ^^^ house, and commenoftd the p«rehas>e of cauntry produce for SHOuey, which was a novelty in the b-.isinoss transaetions rf Fort Schuyler, and arrested the flow of produce to the K.«io's. lie also procured a good assortment of giv^ds which he s<>ld -it prices unusually low, thewby vlotoring bvi\-ors as well as ¦k^llors from resorting to Canajoharie, This son rfovinipeti- -."oa shortly induced the Kane's to cla^o their store and re move t-o Uik*. where under tio firm of Kane and Van Kons- -olaer, tlioy long carried on an o:!ttensi\\> bosiuess ia rivalry >f Mr, slohns.^n. By these active compoiiuons. this plaee speedily oat-stripped the nei^baring villais^s andWamo tho • -onWre of an extensive trade in tie pure^..¦lso rf produce aud the sale rf^.xvl.s, and all conducted on the y rincifAl rf v"a*li jvaymi^ts. The fiune of Utiea f^w s».41iiiir low and yr.rehasing }«rddtteiii at hi^h prieos, atlr»etevi trade from tie whole rojrion «)f the , Shoarmaa. John BtssdL Danid Thomas and several «tho^^, 'vrhose jttnt «ad vigorous oiitorpriso made l'tiea the first aud ¦-.ii>st active plaee in the stsso west rf Albany, and where hcc- uries aad nearly every eou'wui^ee OMld at all times l-o pro- eured at reasAnable privv s Mr. Johnson retired from a very suowssfid bosaaeiss ahout the ye*r 1 > U\ For satiwal years he occupied a lar^ brick store on the west side rf Genesee >tr«etK jusi below tke Ontario Brandi Bank, The last » arthly record respeeiti^ Mr, JehniSHi is as Mlows - Here 508 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. lies Bryan Johnson, the lamented father of Alexander B Johnson. He was a native of England. His mercantile en terprise gave Utica its first impulse. For paternal affection he had no equal — for knowledge of the ways of man no supe rior. His life was abstemious and cheerful, his death in stantaneous, on the 12th of April, 1824, in the seventy-fifth year of his age, and in the vigorous possession of all his fac ulties." Messrs. Kane and Van Rensselaer continued in business for several years longer than Mr. Johnson. John C. Dover- eux emigrated from Ireland in 1799, and came immediately f ,to Oneida County. To the youth and middle-aged, in the county, at that early period, Mr. Devereux was extensively known as the teacher of the polite accomplishment of dancing and as a proficient in discoursing sweet music upon the vio lin, as ¦ft'ell as by his polite and gentlemanly manners. In a few years" he was as extensively known' for his active and careful business habits and talents. His brother Nicholas Devereux oame to America in 1806. John C. Devereux commenced business as a merchant near the lower end of Genesee Street. For several years he was extensively en gaged in the commerce and navigation rf the Mohawk river, occupying a large warehouse upon it, so constructed that boats could be run under a projecting portion of the building, from whence they were loaded and unloaded with comparative ease. His store, for some time, stood upon the site of the Bleecker house, below Bagg's hotel, and after wards he owned and oceupied the brick store opposite, about midway between Whitesboro Street and the rail road. The success and reputation of Mr. Devereux were a fine illustra tion rf what may be accomplished by industry, integrity and energy, unaided by wealth or family, " when left free to com bat " with fortune under the benign influences of our free in- XXIU.] 'UTICA. 509- stitutions. He was not only successful in amassing wealth, but earned the respect and good-will of all classes, and during the whole of his life identified himself with all the interests of the village and city, and freely contributed for every ob ject rf public utUity. During life, a sincere adherent to the Catholic church, it is doubted whether a house of worship was erected in Utica within the almost half century he was a res-^ ident here, to which he did not contribute. For the present ¦church edifice of St. John's Catholic church, he contributed upwards of $12,000. For the last fifteen or twenty years of his life he withdrew graduaUy from active life. In 1839 and 40 he was mayor of the city, having been the first directly elected to that office by the votes of the electors, and filled the office with honor to himself and the approbation of the citizens. He died on the Ilth of Dec. 1848, aged 74 years. Watts Shearman was a carpenter and joiner, and prior to the year 1800 kept a small shop in a part of his story and a half dwelling on Main Street, just below First Street, where he sold " cake and beer" and the other et ceteras usual to a small grocery. Increasing his business, and manifesting su perior business talents, he quit his trade, and took rank among the most successful merchants in Utica. He occupied a store upon the west side of Genesee, a little below the line of Broad Street. Subsequently, Mr. Shearman removed to New York, where he prosecuted an extensive business. Francis A. Bloodgood was probably the third lawyer that commenced business in Utica. For many years he was clerk of the county, and was identified with all the prominent mea sures for the advancement of the village. He resided upon or near the site of the McGregor House, and removed to Ithaca many years since, where he died. Died, in this village, December 23d, 1822, Dr, John Clark, aced ninety -four years, and December 14th, 1823, Jerusha, 510 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. his widow, aged ninety -two yeara, of Lebanon, Conn., whero they lived till advanced age, when they came to Utica to re side with their son, Erastus Clark, Esq. Erastus Clark was bora at Lebanon, May 1 1th, 1768, At an early age he grad uated at Dartmouth College, under the younger President Wheelock, At the age of twenty-two he was admitted to the Bar of the Superior Court of his native State, In 1791 he removed to Clinton, then a part of Whitestown, and after be ing admitted to the courts of this State, commenced the prac tice of law in a land of strangers, without patronage, desti tute of property, without the advantages of captivating man ners or address, and without the fascination of soul-stirring eloquence. His success in his profession was, therefore, slow, but his learning, industry and character for probity, gradu ally raised him to a highly respectable professional rank. In 1797, he removed to old Fort Schuyler, whieh, as a proposi tion first proceeding from him, in the next year received the name of Utica. During his residence here he filled many ofiices of high public trust with strict fidelity, disinterested zeal and independent firmness. His name was proverbial for originality and decision of charaeter. An enlightened conscience was his habitual guide, and if from precipitancy or irritation, his head sometimes erred, there was a redeeming principle in his heart which reclaimed and regulated hia erring judgment and passions. Neither the frowns nor flat teries of friends or foes could move him from what he deemed the course of duty and integrity. He was never known to offer the incense of flattery to any one, and what others tiu/ught he spoke, and his frankness sometimes appeared ill- timed and excessive — and this naked and unreserved habit of mind and expression, frequently gave oflence when he Was unconscious of it. Those who knew Mr. Clark best, esteemed him most. He waa liberal in his oharities and generous in XXIII.] UTICA. 51 1 promoting benevolent objects and public institutions, whilt- uo man was less indulgent to his own appetite, or more self- denying in his pleasures and personal gratifications, and in hisr habits of living he was simple, plain and frugal. The relig ious character of Mr, Clark was free from- ostentation, but uniform, consistent, sincere and ardent — and he lived and died in the same Christian faith and practice in which he was reared under the benign influences of the religion and insti tutions of New England. Mr. Clark died in this place on the 7th of November, 1825. He resided for years upon the west side of Gnjnesee, nearly opposite to the entrance to Cath arine Street. General Joseph Kirkland was among the earliest lawyers in this section, having been admitted several years prior to the organization of Oneida County. He was a native of Connecticut, graduated at Yale College, settled in New Hart- lord in 1794, and removed to Utica in 1813. He ¦nas dis tinguished for much dignity and decision of character, and possessed a fair share of talents as a lawyer, united with great industry and perseverance in his profession. He was a man of strict integrity and honor, and although rigid and unyield ing in his views and his actions consequent upon them, he shared largely in the respect of community. For many years his business was very extensive, especially in that of collect ing for merchants. He represented this county repeatedly in the State Assembly, was a member of Congress, was ap pointed the first mayor of Utica, was District Attorney when this District included several counties, and held other posts of trust and honor, always with credit to himself and strict fidelity to his constituents. Mr. Kirkland was born. January ISth, 1770, and died February 2d, 1844. (J en. Kirkland was the last of that class of eminent law yers, who reflected so muck honor upon this county and their ¦512 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. profession, between 1795 and 1820. Besides those already named, he was the cotemporary of Flatt, Gold, Sill and Storrs, of Whitesboro, men who will be remembered and appreciated as long as Caine's and Johnson's Reports remain authorities as to the common law of our State. At the time those men were at the zenith of their strength and power, it required no ordinary amount of courage and talent to acquire a business standing at the bar of Oneida. Gen. Kirkland was a distant relative of the Rev, Samuel Kirkland, the missionary to the Oneida Indians, Nathan Williams was born at Williamstown, Mass., Dec. 19, 1773, of most respectable parents, his father lost his en tire property by the vicissitudes of the Revolution. At the age of thirteen, young Williams left his home with but a few cents in his pocket, " to seek his fortune " in the wide world. He first came to Troy, where by his perseverance and excel lent character he was enabled to obtain the advantages of an education, and while young, was admitted to practice in the courts of this state. He commenced the practice of law in this place about the year 1796. Among those who grew up ¦vrith the place, sharing in the labors and moral and intellec tual privations of a newly settled country, he was universally respected for his virtues and talents. He was district attor ney, a member of both branches of the state legislature, a member of the state constitutional convention of 1821, and a member of Congress. For many years he held the very la borious and responsible office of circuit judge in this district. As early as 1804, he was the candidate for Congress of the democratic party in his congressional district At an earlier period he was president of the village, and held several im portant trusts under the National government. In the war of 1812 he left his family and extensive business, and shoul dering his musket and knapsack, joined the American army XXIII.] UTICA. ' 513 at Saeketts Harbor, then under the eommand of his brother- in-law. Gen. Jacob Brown. Mr. Williams resided almost forty years upon the northerly side of Whitesboro ^ Street, nearly opposite Hotel Street, and removed to Geneva upon receiving the appointment of clerk of the supreme court, where he died. He died universally lamented, September 25, 1835, and his remains were brought to Utica for inter ment, and here his family have since resided, David Ostrom was a soldier in the Revolution, and among the earliest settlers in Oneida County, About the year 1790 or 91, he removed from Dutchess County to New Hart ford, and afterwards lived in Paris, from whence he removed to Utica, about the year 1807, Upon the organization of Oneida County in 1798, Mr, Ostrom was appointed one of the county judges, which office he held until the year 1815, with the exception of three years, in which his name was omitted from the general Commission of the Peace for the county. Although not educated for the bar, hewas in 1812 admitted ex gratia, an attorney and counsellor of the county courts, and by an advertisement of that period it seems that he opened an office in Utica. He also represented the coun ty in the assembly for several years from its organization. He was a man of sound practical sense and judgment and shared largely in the good will of community. David Ostrom died March 17, 1821, aged 68 years, Joshua Ostrom, his son, died October 4, 1828, Gen, John H, Ostrom, another son, was distinguished as a political leader, and for the urban ity of his manners. As a lawyer, of fair talents, he was not prominent in his profession, he was a man of great activity, and was prosperous in his various undertakings,- He held the offices of clerk of the county, mayor of the city, and vari ous other posts of honor and profit. He was highly respect ed by an extensive circle of" acquaintances for his integrity ¦"¦ 33 514 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. and the correctness of his habits, sentiments and principles. He died August 10, 1845, aged fifty-one years. Died, in this village, in April, 1803, Dr. John Cochran, Director-general of the military hospitals of the United States in the war of the Revolution, aged 76 years. The following anecdote relating to Major James Cochran, went the rounds of the newspapers in 1850, and is given as it was found, with the explanation that Mr. Lossing's work is considered pretty good authority. Major Cochran at the time of his election to Congress resided at Canajoharie, and his competitor was Judge Cooper, of Cooperstown, the father of Cooper, the novelist. He afterwards removed to Utica, where he resided several years, and from thence he removed. to Oswego, where he was appointed post-master. He was the son of Dr. Cochran above named, and married a daughter of Gen. Philip Schuyler, who is believed to be still, liying at Oswego. Major C. died at that place some two. or three years ago. " The Man who Fiddled Himself into Congress. — Major Coch ran, who is now, or was quite recently, living in I'swego, N. Y„, and. who was a member of the House of Representatives during the ad^ ministration of the elder Adams, used to say that he fiddled himself into Congress. A short time previous to his election, a vessel was to he launched in Seneca Lake, at Geneva, and it being an unusual, event, people came from afar to see it. The young folks gathered there determined to have a dance at night. A fiddle was procured, but a fiddler was wanting. Major Cochran was then quite an ama teur performer, and his services were demanded on the occasion. He gratified the joyous company, and at the supper table one of the gentlemen remarked in commendation of his talents, that he was ' fit for Congress.' The hint was favorably received by the company, the matter was ' talked up,' and he was nominated and elected to Congress for the district then comprising the whole State of New Y-oik west of Schenectady. The incident is r^ated in Lossing's Field Book of the Revolution." XXIU.] UTICA, 515 Col. Benjamin Walker was a native of England, and came to New York city prior to the Revolution, where he was en gaged in mercantUe pursuits. He served as an officer during the entire period of the war with considerable distinction, and was a sincere and -warm friend to the United States, As an aid to Washington, he was for some time a member of the mUitary family of the commander-in-chief Upon the arri val of Baron Steuben in 1777, Col, Walker joined his staff, and a warm personal friendship existed between the two as long as the Baron lived. Col, Walker and Col, WilUam North, another of the Baron's aids, were appointed by the Baron, in his will, his executors, and he devised to the two a large share of his property. Soon after the Baron's death in 1794. and as early, as 1797, Col. Walker removed to old Fort' Schuyler, where he resided the remainder of his life. Col. Walker was a man of intelligence and refinement, and was identified with the early growth and progress of Utica. He devised a considerable portion of his property to a natur al daughter who became the wife of Major Combs, a French officer then residing in Utica. Upon the accession of Louis PhUip to the throne of France, Major Combs had liberty to return to his native country, and from whence with the rank of Colonel, he was soon after dispatched to Algiers, where he was kiUed at the head of his regiment, while stm-ming a for tification. Mrs. Combs recently died in France, and it is yet problematical whether any heirs of her mother will make good a claim to her property in land and money in Utica, Col, Walker died January 13, 1818, aged sixty-five years. In 1803, Drs. Solomon Wolcott and Francis Guiteau, Jr., were practicing physicians in this plaoe in partnership, and also kept for sale " opposite the hotel " a supply of drugs and medicines, Dr, Guiteau was a brother of the late Dr, Lu ther Guiteau of Trenton, and Calvin Guiteau, the latter of 516 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAF. whom for many years after, about 1790, was extensively en gaged in this section as a surveyor, Dr, F, Guiteau oamo to the place several years previously to 1 803, and remained subsequently to 1814, and was distinguished as a physician and surgeon, Dr, Wolcott, in the firm of S, Wolcott & Co, in 1812, and in 1813 as a partner with the late John Williams, carried on an extensive business in the sale of drugs, groce ries, etc. Dr, Wolcott died October 30, 1818, aged forty- nine years, Mr, Williaras arrived in Utica a poor Welsh boy, and first as an assistant in and about tho office, garden and stable of Dr. Wolcott, then a clerk in the store, then a partner, afterwards was the successor of the Dr. in the mer cantile part of tho business, Mr, Williams became ono of the most successful and wealthy merchants ever in Utica, and his course was an illustration of what may bo accomplished, without money or family influence to begin with, by integ rity, energy and perseverance, Hu died Jhuo 13, 1843, aged fifty-two years. In 1804, Drs, Alexander Coventry and D, Hasbrouck were practicing physicians in Utica, as partners, Dr, Cov entry, the father of the present Dr, Coventry, was born near Hamilton, in Scotland, August 26, 1766, and died Dec, 9, 1831, In 1812 and 14, Dr, Hasbrouck was a druggist in this place, James Delvin emigrated from Ireland in 1801, and soon becanie a resident of Utica, Upon his decease he left by his will to collateral relatives considerable real estate, now among the most valuable in the city. The manner in which wealth is sometimes forced upon persons, is illustrated by the following account of the circumstances under which Mr, Delvin acquired this property, " It is said that he had loaned to one of our citizens a few hundred dollars, and tlio latter failing, he was compelled to take an acre or two of land xxm.] TTTICA. 517 lying upon Genesee, Liberty and Hotel Streets, or entirely lose his debt" The land was then (a short time before the canal ¦was laid out) considered worth very little, except for a goose pasture, being nothing but a bog, but he took it, hoping eventuaUy to realize a trifie firom it, but sorrowing much, on account of the loss of his money. The Erie Canal brought this land iuto the heart of the place. Mr. Delvin died December 19, 1825, aged sixty years. ApoUos Cooper became a resident of old Fort Schuyler in 1795, and on the Ilth of April, in that year, purchased of James S. Kip 117 acres of lot 96, known as the Cooper prop erty, extending from the river nearly to the point formed by Genesee and State Streets. Mr. Cooper was identified with the growth and prosperity ofthe city and county for nearly forty-five years. ^ His integrity, sound judgment and irre proachable life secured him the respect and esteem of aU who knew him." In 1 805, he was appointed a coimty judge and held the office five years ; in 1815, he was appointed sheriff, and held the office several years, and in 1823, he was a mem ber of assembly. Oa the 2d of April, 1839, " as a shock of corn fully ripe he was gatheijed to his fathers " in the seventy- third year of his age, '¦ and the odor of a good name will long haUow his memory." Talcott Camp was born at Durham, Conn., March 4, 1762, and served in the Commissary department during most ofthe Revolutionary contest. From Durham he removed to Glas- tenbury, where he was several years a merchant. In 1796, he removed to this place, where he was for many years a suc cessful and enterprising merchant. For a series of years, he was an upright and esteemed magistrate ofthe town of Whites- town, residing in Utica, and in 1809, and the five foUowing jears, was president of the viUage. He was a man of ster ling sense and judgment, and in an eminent degree enjoy c 518 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. the respect of community. He was the father of our old merchants, Harry and John Camp, and of the late Mrs. W^ F. Potter, He died Sept, 5, 1832, aged 70 years. Capt. James Hopper was a native of England, and for many years was in command of various vessels in the En glish merchant service, sailing 4o different parts of the world, occasionally owning shares in his vessels and cargoes. For a time he commanded an armed vessel under orders from the British Admiralty, sailing with letters of marque in the war between England and France, His vessel having been taken, he and his crew were carried to France as prisoners, and he was afterwards exchanged for the celebrated French Marshal Junot, who had been taken by the British in Egypt, Capt, Hopper came to America in 1801, and soon settled in Utica, where he purchased considerable real estate. He was the father of Thomas and George J. Hopper. Capt. Hopper died May 16, 1816, aged fifty-eight years. In 1798, Charles Easton was a painter and glazier in Utica, and kept paint, glass, etc., for sale. In 1813, he was a merchant doing an extensive business in the sale of paints, oils, etc. In 1804, Dr. Marcus Hitchcock was post-master of Utica, but when appointed the author has been unable to learn. For nearly forty years subsequently he was a druggist, also doing a large business in the sale of patent medicines. He remov ed to Terre Haute, Indiana, where he died but a few years since. Dr. Hitchcock was succeeded as post-master by James Piatt, who held the office but a short time, and was succeed- Gd by Augustine G. Dauby, near the commencement of Gen. Jackson's administration. Mr. Dauby held the office twenty years, and was succeeded by Joseph H. Shearman, soon after Gen. Taylor entered upon the Presidency, Thomas Skinner was a lawyer, and an active member of XXIII,] UTICA. 519 the democratic party in this place, where he resided about forty jears. He died June 19, 1848, aged seventy years. About the 25th of May, 1796, Mr. WilUam McLean es tablished in New Hartford (then in Whitestown), the Whitestown Gazette, the second paper established in the county, the first being the " Western Sentinel]^ printed in Whitesboro. Mr. McLean emigrated from Hartford, Conn. In 1798 he removed his paper to Utica, " near the post-office," where he continued its publication under the name of ^- Whitestown Gazette and Cato's Patrol." The No. in possession of the author is Vol. III. No. 117, dated August 27,1798. This was the first paper published in Utica. In 1803, Mr. McLean was obliged by ill health to relinquish his paper, and sold out to John H. Lathrop, Esq. A few years after, Asahel Seward and Ira Merrill started a weekly paper called the " Patriot]' and after a while the two papers merg ed in the Patriot. In 1821, the name of the paper was changed to '¦'•Utica Sentinel]' and in 1825, upon being united with the " Columbian Gazette]' as a result of Clintonianism, the paper was named the " Sentinel and Gazette]' and in 1834, the name was changed to " Oneida Whig]' the daily issue of which is the Gazette again. Mr. McLean after va rious vicissitudes of fortune, and after a residence of a few years at Vernon Village, established himself at Cherry Val ley, where he resided the last thirty years of his life " enjoy ing to an unusual . degree the good will and esteem of the community in which he lived." He died March 12, 1848, aged seventy-three years. Mr. Seward was an apprentice to Mr. McLean in the Gazette office, before its removal to this place. For many years he was extensively engaged in the printing, publishing, and book-selling business. He died January 30, 1835, aged 53 years. About the 1st rf August, 1799, Thomas Walker, Esq. ' es- 520 ANNALS' OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CIIAP. tablished the •' Columbian Patriotic Gazette " at Rome, and continued its publication upwards of two years. The imprint ofthe paper say's it was printed by Thomas Walker for Eaton & Walker, About the first of March, 1803, Mr. Walker having removed to Utica, commenced the " Colum bian Gazette]' and continued its publication for a long series of years as the organ of the " democratic republican " party, as tho " Whitestown Gazette]' and its successor, the '• Patri ot]' were of the " federal " party. In the division of the democratic party, originating among the friends and oppo nents of DeWitt Clinton, as a candidate for the Presidency, Mr, AYalker belonged to the Clintonian branch. In 1825, he sold the Gazette to Messrs, William J, Bacon and JSamuel D. Dakin, by whom the Gazette and Scntind were united. Although still alive, the author feels himself at full liberty to say, that no man in Utica has ever earned a fairer title to the good will and respect of the people than Mr. Walker. He was elected as the successor of Mr. Huntington, the President ofthe Utica Bank. Ebenezer Eaton, the partner of Mr, Walker in the Gazette at Rome, came from Vermont, and remained at Rome but a short time. He then removed to Aurora, Cayuga County, where he published a paper for a short period, and then returned to Vermont, where he con ducted the " North Star " for many years, and where it is understood he still resides. He is a brother of the celebra ted Gen. Eaton, who served under Gen. Wayne, and after wards espoused the cause of Hamet, the dethroned Bashaw of Tripoli, in his atteippts to regain the govemment. John H. Lathrop succeeded Mr. McLean ss the conductor of the Whitestown (Gazette and Cato's Patrol, and was con nected with it and its successor nearly or quite tothe close of his life. The addition to the name of the paper of " Cato's Patrol" had reference to tbe younger Cato who was the defender of XXIII,] UTICA, 521 ancient Utica, a place destroyed and almost forgotten many hundreds of years before its name was transferred to a little village in the back woods of America. Mr. Lathrop died,. June 15, 1829, aged fifty-eight years, and was interred in the private burying ground south of Water Street, within a few days after it was opened. He was born in New Haven, Conn,, and graduated at Yale College, with honor, at an early age. Having chosen the profession of law, he was admitted and practiced in the courts of his native state for a short pe riod with distinction. As a man and citizen he was highly respected, and was identified with almost every measure for building up the place, " As a gentleman, a scholar, and Christian, by the purity of his life and manners, by his fine genius and extensive attainments, he became the pride rf an extensive circle of friends, and an honor to his race," The •' Western Sentinel" was established at Whitesboro, the first of January, 1794, by Oliver P. Easton, who had been fitted out for that purpose by the Messrs, Swords of New York, but he remained only a short period, and was succeeded by a Mr. Lewis, who was the publisher in the summer of 1799, This was the first newspaper printed in the county, and was continued about six years. The prin ting office was " near the post-office in Whitestown, Herkimer County, New York.'' The Whitesto^cn Gazette was subse quently established by McLean, at New Hartford, in the town of Whitestown. > Eliasaph Dorchester was for a time connected with Mr, Walker in the publication of the CdtumMan Gazette, and afterwards was connected with the Oneida Observer. The Obse}-ver was established near the commencement of the year 1816, as the organ of the party which elected Messrs, Madi son and Monroe to the Presidency, and in opposition to Gov. DeWitt Clinton as a candidate for the PTe^dency, and the' 522 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Clintonian party. As early as 1824, the Observer was prin ted by A. G. Dauby, who edited it many years after he par* ted with his interest in the publishing department, Tiiese notices of the several papers were deemed {)roper in this place in connection with the names of Messrs. McLean and Walker. Joseph Ballou, the father of Obadiah, and Jerathmael Ballon, and Mrs. E. B, Shearman, arrived in the vicinity of old Fort Schuyler in the spring of 1792, and settled in what is now East Utica, below the Basin, The Gulf Creek, run ning through the " Big Basin " was for many years known as Ballou's Creek. Mr, Ballou died about the year 1810. Col, Benjamin BaUou, a cousin of the latter, arrived in this place as early as 1798, and died Nov. 18, 1840, aged seventy yeairs. In 1804, Obadiah Ballou above named, was extensively en gaged as an agent of Richard Lee of New York, in the sale of patent medicines in Utica, as appears by an advertisement of two columns in the Columbiaii Gazette. From the cer tificates and puffs it is evident that " certain remedies ' and " infallible medicines " were known and used by our ances tors, but notwithstanding, as strange as it seems, flesh is still heir to disease and mortality. Morris S, Miller was in early life the private secretary of the distinguished patriot, John Jay, while Governor of this state. Soon afterwards he commenced the practice of law in Lowville, now in Lewis County, and early in the present cen tury, having married a daughter of Mr, Bleecker of Albany, Mr, Miller removed to Utica, He was a member of Con gress from this district in 1812, when war was declared against Great Britain. He was appointed flrst judge of this county, March 5, 1 8 1 0, and held the office bj re-appointments untU his decease. Mr. MiUer died in Utica, Nov, 16, 1824, aged forty -four years, and his remains rest in the family vault XXIIL] UTICA, 523 of the Bleeckers in Albany. He was a man of fair talents, many acquirements, polished manners, and enjoyed the friend ship and esteem of an extensive circle, among whom were many of the first men in the country. Arthur Breese was one of the prominent men of this sec tion, while , yet a new country. His paternal grand-father was born at Shrewsbury, England, of Welsh parentage, and was a cousin of the celebrated Sir Watkyn William Wynn of Wynnstay, Wales — and emigrated to Shrewsbury, New Jersey, a place named by him probably after his native place, Arthur Breese was born at Shrewsbury, New Jersey, and his brother, the late Samuel Sidney BreesOj of Scanandoah, was born in Philadelphia, The subject of this notice, studied law with the distinguished Judge Elias Boudinot, and re moved to Whitesboro as early as 1794, where he became a partner of the late Judge Piatt, in the practice of his pro fession. Upon the organization of Oneida County, he was appointed Surrogate, and held the office until May, 1 808. A clerk's office of the supreme court having been established at Utiea about this time, he was appointed the clerk, which of fice he held until the time of his death, a period of about seventeen years. He died at New York, whither he had gone for the benefit of his health, Aug. 13, 1825, aged fifty- three years. He removed to Utica about the year 1805, and actively engaged in every measure for building up the place or for the intellectual and inoral improvement of its citizens. He died in the prime of manhood, universally beloved and respected. Matthew Hubbell, father of Alrick Hubbell, settled upon what has been long known as the " Hubbell farm " in East Utica, in 1789. He emigrated from Berkshire County, Massachusetts, and brought a good share of New England energy and perseverance to bear upon the then almost un- 524 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. broken forest, in the vicinity of the old fort. He died many years since. Charles C. Brodhead, one of the very few " earlj settlers" now remaining in Utica, became a resident of the place as early as 1797. For many years he was extensively engaged as a surveyor in this section of the state. On the Sth of April, 1800, he was appointed sheriffof Oneida County, and honorably performed the duties of the office tUl June 18, 1804. Mr. Brodhead moves among the chUdren and grand chUdren of his cotemporaries 'with much of the elasticity of youth, and apparently bids fair to see a generation or two of tiieir descendants before he is gathered to his fathers. Commodore Melancthon T. Woolsey died in Utica, May 19, 1838, aged fifty-eight years. His paternal grand-father feU in the service of his country at the head of a battalion in 1758. His father, Melancthon L. Woolsey, served with credit in the war of the Revolution, and expended a handsome pat rimony in the cause of freedom and his country. The sub ject of this sketch was a clerk in the clerk's office of Oneida county, when the late judge Piatt was county elerk. In 1800 he entered the navy of the United States, in which he ac tively served during the great portion of the remainder of his life upon the Atlantic, the Pacific, in the Mediterranean and upon the lakes. In 1808, he was ordered to thecom mand of the lake Ontario station. At the commencement ofthe war of 1812, his command was one of vast responsibU ity, particiUarlj in 'view ofthe great numerical superiority of the enemy's naval force upon the lakes, and the defenceless condition of the ports upon this side. His first object was to protect Saeketts Harbor from attack. In addition to the Big Oneida, he armed and equipped the schooner JuUa, and sub sequently capttired the British armed schooner Nelson, which he added to the squadron. Shortly afterwards the British XXIII.] UTICA. 525 sent a strong force against Saeketts Harbor, then without any works of defence, for the purpose of destroying the vil lage and the American fleet. Commodore Woolsey placing his squadron in as secure a position as possible, went on shore and took command of a body of volunteers and militia, hastily constructed a battery, and in a short time compelled the enemy to retire precipitately, with considerable loss and damage, ¦ Commodore Woolsey was a brave and accomplish ed naval officer, and always cherished that just pride as to his profession, which has so ennobled so many of its members, a profession which has furnished to the United States such a galaxy of heroes and patriots, A short time before his death he removed to Utica, where by the affability of his deport ment, the kindness of his heart, and the correctness of his sen timents and life, he acquired the good will and esteem of all who made his acquaintance. He was buried with military honors, and was attended to the grave by Captain Mervine of the navy, Gen, Comstock and his staff, and the Utica Cit izens' Corps, Several years since an anecdote of Com. Woolsey was pub lished in many of the newspapers of the country, but as the author has been unable to find a copy, he gives it from recol lection, without names or dates. At some period during the war of 1812, a considerable British force commanded by a naval officer of rank, effected a landing from Lake Ontario, at some point within the county of Jefferson or Oswego, The Commodore and the British commander had formed an ac quaintance, and become warm personal friends some years be fore, whUe stationed in the Mediterranean. The landing was made under cover of tho darkness of night, and Commodore Woolsey, aware of their approach, had collected and taken command of a small party of riflemen, which he bad station ed in a good position for properly receiving the enemy ais 526 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP, soon as they were beyond the reach of their boats. The Brit ish came, and found themselves suddenly confronted by the Americans, Com. Woolsey issued his orders as if to a large force, ordering those in front to stand firm, and directing two large imaginary flanking parties to secure positions which cut off the enemy's retreat, those in front now opening a dead ly fire. The Commodore to make victory sure and quick, in thunder tones now ordered his whole force to " charge bayo net." The British have too often turned the tide of battle by the bayonet not to feel a dread of the weapon when turned against themselves by superior numbers, and. those Amer icans, now to save themselves from entire destruction, cried for quarter, threw dtfwn their arms and surrendered. The British commander was conducted to the Commodore, when a mutual recognition took place. " Commodore," said he, " I am happy to be permitted to renew our former ac quaintance, although under unfavorable circumstances, but this is the first time I have ever known riflemen to " charge bayonet I" Whether the ruse oi the Commodore was a stratagem conceived at the moment, or was the result of hab it, as mari-nes do carry bayonets, is now a question difficult to be answered. The British force became prisoners of war, and then their boats, aboard which was a large quantity of arms and mUitary stores, were easily taken. David W. Childs was a native of Pittsfield, Mass., a son of Dr. Childs, a celebrated physician of that place, and a broth er of the late Lieut. Gov. Childs of that state. For several years he was a lawyer, and ranked among the more prominent citizens of Utica. He died at his native place, whither he had gone for the benefit of his health, JiUy 27, 1826, aged forty-five years. WUliam Jones, a brother- of Dr. Jones, late a President of Texas, was for several years actively engaged as a surveyor and engineer in and around Utica, Many vil- XXIII.] UTICA. 527 lage surveys of lots, streets, &c,, and the maps of property were made by him. He was a highly respected and useful citizen, and died Dec. 14, 1827. aged thirty -five years. JIaj. Benjamin Hinman, the father of John E. Hinman, mayor of Utica, was a n'ative of Connecticut, and served with mueh credit during the Revolution, as an aid to General Greene. He also lost a handsome fortune through the vicis situdes of the war, and his devotion to the cause of his coun- try. In 1793, he removed to Herkimer, and in 1798, re moved to Utica. He was a man of sound judgment, most correct morals and habits, and was highly respected as a man, a patriot and a citizen. He died at Uniontown, Pennsylvania, while upon a jour ney to New Jersey, April 7, 1821, aged sixty-six years. His aged widow stiU survives in the state of Illinois, and is in the enjoyment of a handsome bounty from government on ac count of her husband's revolutionary services. It was mentioned in the obituary of Major Hinman, that he had never drank one glass of ardent spirits in his Ufe. In sketching the foregoing notices of prominent men in Utica. it struck the mind of the author most forcibly, as it nq doubt will that of the reader, how large a number in propor tion to the whole were eut off by death hardly past the me ridian of life, and in the midst of active usefulness. Utica- has ever been a healthy location, and the cause of this early mortaUty is inexplicable. In the histories of the various churches and notices of the institutions, societies, incorporations, etc., the author has ta ken pains generaUy to give the names of their founders and early officers, that " honor may be given where honor is due," and also that by a reference to them the names of the promi nent and active citizens, at the various periods named, may be ascertained This has been the author's motive ingivlng.ia 528 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. some instances, long lists of names, and these to the future historian of Utica, if any there ever shall be, will be of more value than many pages of incidents and events without such exact data. This is the author's apology, if one is needed, for these lists and the frequent repetition of the same names. To show the extent of population, and relative taxation in the vUlage of Utica in the year 1800, the names of the taxable inhabitants and the tax paid by each are given from the village tax list of that year. John Post paid a tax of S 2,00 ; Daniel Budlong and Ramsey & Co. S 1,25 each ; Samuel Carrington, John Hobby, Richard Smith, Nathaniel Butler, § 1,12^ each ; Benjamin Walker, John House, Moses Bagg, Bryan John son, Proprietors of tlie Hotel, Francis A. Bloodgood, William Halsey, § 1,00 each; 0. & J. Ballou, John Smith, John Bis sell, Talcott Camp, Clark & Fellows, Samuel Hooker, 87^- cents each ; James S. Kip, Joseph Ballon, Nichols (Bagg's house), Nathan Williams, Gurdon Burchard, William Williams, WUliam McLean 75 ets. each ; administrator of Daniel Banks, John Bellinger, 62^ cents each ; Silas Clark, Peter Smith, Worden Hammond, Remsen, Barnabas Brooks, John C. Hoyt, Peter Cavender, James P. Dorches ter, Watts Shearman, Erastus Clark, 50 ets. each; S. P. Dy gert, Samuel Forman, Clark, John Curtiss, Benjamin Ballou, Jr., Charles Easton, o7J ets. each ; J. D. Petrie. Matthew Hubbell, J. Becking, Benjamin Ballou, Widow Murphy, Jeremiah Cowden, J. Bissell, Samuel Rugg, Jeptha Buell, Stephen Potter, Samuel Garritt, Jonathan Foot, Jo seph Pierce, G. Boon's house, Apollos Cooper, John Watley, Gideon Burchard, 25 ets, each ; William Pritchard, James Bagg, Barnabas Cooper, John Cooper, Simeon Jones, Van Sykes, 12^ ets. each. Total S 40,00. The vUlage ex tended at that time no farther west than the west line of lot .ninety-seven. XXIU.] UTICA, 529 As questions relative to the titles of the land upon which Utica is built, are of considerable interest to her present and future owners of real estate, the writer has compiled the main facts and circumstances upon which those titles rest. For many years past the original settlers of a large portion of the city, or their heirs and grantees, have been compelled to de fend suits brought against them by Mrs, Martha Bradstreet. and, although she has sometimes obtained verdicts, yet those verdicts have never enabled her to obtaih possession of city property after having been reviewed by the higher tribunals. The territory upon whieh Utica stands was granted by the crown of -Great Britain to Joseph Worrell and others, by Letters Patent, dated -January 2, 1734, certain quit-rents be ing reserved to government as before stated. It was the practice of the Colonial Governors and other officers of the Crown in the Colonies, to procure patents of large tracts of wild land, to be granted to a certain number ¦of persons, and then to take assignments of the patents to themselves, thus obtaining those immense estates which have made so much trouble to their posterity. The Home govern ment, at different times, instructed the Oolonial government not to grant more than 1000 acres, -(at certain periodschang- ed to 2000 acres) of wild land to any . individual. To evade these instructions, those high functionaries prooured a cer tain number, generally of obscure persons, (the number was in proportion to the size of the tract they wished to secure), to apply for a patent of the tract, with an agreement that when obtained, it was for certain nominal considerations arid favors, to be transferred to the officer, he giving all iiecessa- ry instructions how to proceed, and furnishing the money to pay the usually large fees and expenses to other crown offi cers. These large fees and a desire, may be, to do the same thing, operated to keep the other officers quiet and prevent 34 530 ^ ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [CHAP. their informing their masters across the Atlantic of these rascaUties, After all the necessary petitions, surveys and other re quired formalities, the patent was graciously granted to the petitioners. This done, they were collected, may be for a feast and general merry-making, and the patent and the thousands of acres it covered, were conveyed to him for whom they were originaUy intended. In this way Governors, Lieut. Governors, Surveyors General, Secretaries, and Councils would gravely perform their various parts in the granting of patents, in the name of their sovereign, to companies of hum ble subjects, when in fact they were for the benefit of them selves. Sometimes private persons of great wealth and in fiuence, were aUowed to act the same farce, and it was in this way that nearly all the large tracts granted previously to the Revolution, were obtained, and in some instances they exceed 100,000 acres in extent. It was in this way that '• our well-beloved William Cosby, Captain General, and Governor in Chief of New York and New Jersey," etc., etc., gravely granted 22,000 acres to Joseph Worrell and others, when the grant was in trust for himself and for his own ben efit. This tract immediately tdok the name of Cosby- manor, and the title remained in Gov. Cosby and his grantees and heirs, until sold for quit-rents as hereafter stated. The " WiUiam Cosby, Sheriff of Amboy " named in the patent, was another person, a relative of Gov. Cosby. It was in this way that Sir William Johnson obtained those large tracts, owned by him, and now lying in Fulton, Montgomery, Her kimer and Oneida Counties. Gov. Cosby took the office of Governor on the 1st of Aug., 1732, and died in New York, March 10, 1736. His widow, the daughter of Lord Halifax, remained in this country sev eral years, and afterwards returned to England, where sh« X.VIII.J UTICA. 531 was living as late as 1766, Gov, Cosby left two sons and two daughters. Sir William Johnson was agent for Mrs. Cosby, and for several years was the medium of a negotiation between her and Oliver Delancey and others, for the sale of her estates in the valley of the Mohawk, The quit-rents reserved in the patent were never paid, and accumulated to a large sum before the land was ordered sold . for their payment. On the 7th of May, 1772, Daniel Horsmanden, Esq., chief justice of the colony of New York, issued a warrant to Philip Ten Eyck, Esq., sheriff of Albany. County, directing the sale of Cosby's manor, for arrears of quit-rents, and accordingly, on the fourth- of July following, the manor was sold at public salo to Col, (afterwards Gen,) PhUip Schuyler, for £ 1387, 4s. Td., and on the 20th of July a deed of conveyance was exe cuted by the sheriff to Col, Schuyler, Col, Schuyler, how ever, purchased the same for the joint benefit of himself, Gen. John Bradstreet, Rutger Bleecker, and John M, Scott, each paying one-fourth of the purchase money, but, the last three for various reasons, not wishing to be known in the transac tion, the deed was drawn to Col, Schuyler. The reason Gen. Bradstreet assigned for wishing not to be known as the pur chaser, was, that he feared it might giye offence to the Duke of Grafton, who, or some of whose family had, or were sup posed to have, an interest in Cosby's manor. Lord Augustus Fitzroy, third son of the Duke of Grafton, while upon a visit to America, became acquainted with the family of Gov. Cos by, and"through the intrigues of Mrs. Cosby, (according to the colonial historian. Smith,) he was united to the oldest daughter by a private marriage, at Fort George, in New York, To save the G6vernor from the wrath of the Duke, then a favorite of George II., and to blind the relatives, a mock prosecution was instituted against Parson CampbeU, 532 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [CHAP. who had scaled the walls of the fort and solemnized the nup tials, without the license or publication of banns, against the usage, although not against the la-ws of the colony of New York. Col. Schuyler in his answer, filed March 3, 1789, to a bill in chancery, filed in 1788, by Mr. and Mrs. Evans (du Bellamy), to compel him, as executor of Gen. B.'s will, to dis cover and convey under the will, thus speaks of the purchase ; •¦ Said lands having been advertised for sale for the payment of quit-rents, I (Col. Schuyler) proposed to Gen. Bradstreet to become a partner with me and others in the purchase, to which Gen. B. agreed, and that I for myself and in behalf of Gen. B., together with Messrs. Bleecker and Scott having purchased Cosby's manor, (excepting 100 acres,) Gen. B. paid through my hands as his agent for his share, and I admit that I hold or claim in trust for the representatives of Gen. B. or for the purpose of his will, the proportion of said purchase specified." Gen. Bradstreet died Sept. 26, 1774, and by his will dated the 23d of the same month, after devising an improved farm (no part of the land in question,) to a son of Col. Schuyler, devises " all the rest of his real estate to his two daughters, equally to be divided between them as tenants in common in fee" — charging the same with £100 per annum, to be paid to their mother, and then the wiU proceeds : " notwithstan ding the former devise for the benefit of my wife and daugh ters, I empower my executors to do all acts, and execute all instruments which they may conceive to be requisite to the partition of my landed estate, and I devise the same to them. as joint tenants, to be by them sold at such time and in such manner as they shall think most for the interest of my daugh ters, to whom the nett produce shall be paid in equal shares." He appointed Col. Schuyler and WUliam Smith, of New York, his executors. The two dauehters of Gen. Bradstreet were x.xiu.J UTICA. 533 Martha Bradstreet and Agatha, the wife of Charles du Bel lamy, whose true name and that by which he was afterwards known was Charles John Evans. The wife of Gen. John Bradstreet had had by a former marriage with Colonel John Bradstreet, a son and daughter, the son. Major Samuel Bradstreet, of the fortieth regiment of foot, and the daughter,- Elizabeth, the wife- of Hon. Peter Livius, chief justice of the Province of Quebec. Major Sam uel Bradstreet, son of Col. and step-son of Gen. John Brad street died previous to 1781, leaving two children, one Mar tha Bradstreet, born on the island of Antigua, W. I., August 10, 1780,.,and married to Matthew Codd, in Ireland, April 16, 1799, and who with her husband came to America, in the fall of the latter year, and the other was Lieut. Samuel Brad street of the twenty-fifth regiment of foot, who also came to America. The widow of Gen. B, died March 31, 1782, Martha Bradstreet, daughter of Gon, Bradstreet, died un married, March 22, 1782, and by her will, dated May 15, 1781, devised in fee (after her mother's death.) one-third of her estate, real and personal, to her (step) sister, Elizabeth ' Livius, " to be at her own disposal, and independent of her husband, by will or otherwise ; " one-third to Samuel and Martha, children of her late (step) brother, Major Samuel Bradstreet, equally to be divided, and to the survivor, in case either should die under 21, but the income to be expended during their infancy, in their maintenance and education ; and the remaining third to her sister Agatha du Bellamy (Evans) for life, and in case she survived her husband then in fee — she appointed Sir Charles Gould sole executor, and authorized him to sell and dispose of such real estate as sho was entitled to in North America and elsewhere, and to ex ecute conveyances for the same. It seenis that Dec, 19, 1 786. a voluntary partition of Cosby's manor was made by and be- 534 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [ciIAP. tween Gen. Schuyler, representing three-quarters (his own, and those of Gen. B. and Mr. Scott,) and Rutger Bleecker the owner of the other quarter, that a map was made and the several lots marked thereon with the names of Schuyler, Bleecker, Bradstreet and Scott. In 1790, Charles John Evans (du Bellamy), and Agatha, his wife, one of the daughters and devisees of Gen. Bradstreet and Sir Charles Gould, executor of the wUl of Martha Brad- Street (the other daughter) by Daniel Ludlow and Edward Gould, his attorneys, conveyed by deed with warranty to Stephen Potter (father of the late Wm. F. Potter), four hun dred acres, Lot 97, Cosby's manor. (In 1816, WUUam F. Potter, devisee of Stephen Potter, conveyed to Henry Hun tington about 70 acres, known as the " Huntington property.") The Evans and Gould also conveyed 150 acres, part of lot 89 to Peter Bellinger, Nov. 16, 1791 ; also 11 1 acres in lot 95 to John Bellinger and Benj. Hammond, June 17, 1797 ; also 200 acres in lot 95 to Augustus and Thomas Corey, July 25, 1791 ; also eighty-nine and a half acres in lot 95 to John Post, July 13, 1792. July 19, 1794, Mrs. Agatha Evans (before named) in her own right and Sir Charles Gould, executor (as aforesaid), by Edward Gould, his attorney, conveyed by deed with cove nants of warranty and for quiet enjoyment to James S. Kip, lot No. 96, Cosby's manor. (April II, 1795, J. S. Kip con veyed 117 acres to Apollos Cooper, known as the Cooper farm.) There may have been also other conveyances from Evans and Gould,- which have not been found by the author, but those above mentioned cover lots 95, 96 and 97. In the suits brought by Mrs. Bradstreet against the occu pants of lands in Cosby's manor, it has been insisted that the conveyances by Daniel Ludlow and Edward G^iuld, and by Edward Gould, as attorneys for Sir Charles Gould, executor sxiii.] UTICA. 5.35 of Martha Bradstreet, were not valid conveyances, beca'ase no authority or power of attorney for that purpose from Sir C. Gould had been produced or shown to have ever existed, and because Sir C, Gould could not have legally delegated to another the power he possessed, under the will of Martha Bradstreet, to sell her real estate. Previously to the convey ances by Evans and Gould, in and subsequently to 1790, the " Bradstreet lots " were a wilderness, unoccupied, except by a few squatters who had made small " clearings.'' Gen. Schuyler, as executor and trustee of Gen, Bradstreet" (William Smith having taken sides with England and gone to Canada, at the commencement of the Revolution, where he died), seems to have been conscious of th6 responsibilities, moral and legal, and the difficulties eonnected with his posi tion in relation to the Bradstreet property, and from 1784 to 94, he sought the advice ofthe most eminent lawyers, among whom were Samuel Jones, Riehard Harrison and Alexander Ilamilton, as to the manner in which he eould " put the sev eral heirs (of Gen, B.) in possession of the estate, with saftty to himself and in conformity to the will" of Gen, B, On the 16th of May, 1794, Gen. Schuyler, as executor of Gen. B., executed to Agatha Evans, daughter of Gen. B. (C. J. Evans having died Aug. 9, 1793), and Edward Gould, attor ney for Sir C, Gould, executor of Martha B,, the other daughter, a deed, which recites the wills of Gen, B,, and 3Iartha B,, that Gen. Schuyler "was seized in fee as tenant in common in trust for Gen, B, of one-fourth part " of Cos by's manor ; the death of Wm. Smith, his eo-exeeutor ; the de vises of Martha B. to Mrs, Evans, Mrs, Livius and to Mar tha and Samuel B, (before described) ; the partition before named ; and then states that to invest Mrs. Evans with her proportion under the wills of Gen. B. and Martha B, and to in vest Edivard Gould with the remainder in trust, for the per- 536. ANNALS OF ONEIBA COUNTY. [CIIAP. sons entitled thereto under the will of Martha B,, and in consideration of ten shillings, he (Gen, Schuyler), " doth grant, bargain, sell, alien, release and confirm " two-thirds (undivided) to Mrs, Evans,, and the remaining one- third to Edward Gould, in trust, to sell and convey the same, and di vide the proceeds (after deducting expenses^ between Samuel and Blartha B., and Mrs. Livius, Mrs, Livius died May 4, 1795, without descendants, and left a paper purporting to be a will, dated May 25, 1794 (her husband being then alive), by which she constituted Martha Bradstreet (her niece), sole heir toiher real and per sonal estate, to be paid and delivered to her at the age of twenty-one, or upon the day of her marriage, provided sho married with the consent of Mrs, Livius' executor. Sir Charles Morgan (who by the way is. the same person as Sir Charles Gould, so frequently mentioned before), but in case of said Martha's death under twenty-one, or marriage without isuch consent, then her brother, Lieut, Samuel Bradstreet, was to be sole heir to Mrs, Livius' property. Martha Bradstreet married Mr, Codd without the consent of Sir C, Morgan, butsubsequently on the 4th of June, 1800, he gave her a certificate expressing his wilUngness to consent to an^ ratify her marriage as far as he had p©wer then to do so. On the 17th of June, 1817, Mrs, B, obtained a decree of divorce from Matthew Codd, and subsequently obtained an act of the Legislature of New York authorizing her to re sume her maiden name, Martha Bradstreet. July 26, 1802, Lieut. Samuel B, released to his sister Martha Codd, what ever interest he might be entitled to claim under the will of Mrs, Livius, by reason of her marriage without the consent first obtained of Sir C, Morgan, In 1800, Edward Gould (the before-named attorney of Sir C, Gould, as executor of Martha B, (the elder) alias Sir xxm] UTICA. 537 C. Morgan, executor of Mrs. Livius) became bankrupt, and under an order of the court of chancery of New York, ou the 22d of October, 1804, he executed a deed to « Martha Codd, late Martha Bradstreet, wife of Matthew Codd of Utica, New York," reciting the deed to him from Schuyler of May 16, 1794. that since that date Mrs. Codd had become entitled to the share of Mrs. L ivius, thereby conveyed to him in trust, nvt already sold and converted into money, and conveying to her (Mrs. Codd) aU the real estate held by him (E. Gould) at the time of his becoming bankrupt, with covenant of war ranty, but providing that he (Gould) should not be held per- .sjjnaUy responsible for any of said real estate which he may have sold prior to his bankruptcy. The terms of this deed were prescribed by the order or decree of chancerj'. Mrs. Martha Bradstreet, formerly wife of M. Codd, sister of Lieut Samuel B., daughter 'of Major Samuel B., grand daughter of Col. John B., step-grand-daughter of Gen. John B.. niece of 3Irs. Livius, step-niece of Martha B. and Mrs. Evans (du BeUamy), is the person who has for many years pressed her claims to a share, of Cosby's manor in Utica. and the foregoing are the facts upon which those claims are based, as weU as those upon which the occupants defend their titles and possession. The share or quarter of Cosby 's manor belonging originaUv to Rutger Bleecker, is the property known as that ofthe late John R. Bleecker (fether-in-law of Hon. Horatio Seymour), and his sisters, Mrs. Elizabeth Brinkerhoff, Mrs. Blandina Dudley, and Mrs. Maria MUler. The quarter of the manor originaUy owned by Gen. Schuyler was divided into lots, and a part of them leased or sold by the Gen. in his life time, and the remainder has since heen sold by his heirs. Mrs. Ham ilton, widow of Alexander HamUton, now ^ijoying a ripe age of a little short of an hundred vears. and Mrs. Cochran of 538 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Oswego, are daughters of Gen. Schuyler, and but a few years since sold the last of their lands in West Utica. The real estate in West Utica, known as the Varick and Mann prop erty, the Breese estate, that of A. B. Johnson, &c., belonged to Gen. Schuyler. The quarter of the manor which belonged to John Morrin Scott, was all conveyed by him and his rep resentatives many years since. The growth of Utica has ever been slow, sure and steady. Iler business men have ever owned a large share of the lot^ and buildings, have proceeded in their various vocations and enterprises with caution and discretion, have ever done busi ness almost exclusively upon their own capital, and conse quently have not experienced the reactions and revulsions under whieh most other places of its size have suffered. The beginnings here were truly small, and the prospects were lim ited. In 1793 or 94, when the late Jason Parker arrived here on one occasion with the great western mail from Alba ny, it was discovered that it contained six letters for the in habitants of Old Fort Schuyler, This remarkable fact wa.-* heralded from one end of the settlement to the other, and soHie were incredulous, until assured of its reality by that most veracious Dutchman, John Post, the post-master. At that time the arrival of six letters in one mail was an event of real importance. About this time Mr. Parker had in his employ a young colored man (for this was a slave-holding community then) and a darker dog, a large noble fellow, and by these the mail was dispatched to Fort Stanwix, over a road which had been improved but little since the Revolution. Tray with the mail lashed upon his back and Jack whistling by his side, performed the trip within the contract time, to wit: up one day and back the next. In the Western Sentinel, Sept. 23, 1795 (the earliest No. known to be extant), are found the following advertisements : xxm.] uncA, 53§ '' Parker's Mail Stage from Whitestown to Canajoharie." (Here follows a woodcut of a coach and four-^the coach of a pattern long since lost from the earth, the^ coachman with cocked hat, and the only modern representation of the horses is in the Dutch toys, of the real peg-leg order), " The mail leaves Whitestown every Monday and Thursday, at 2 o'cloek, P, M,, and proceeds to old Fort Schuyler the same evening ; next morning starts at 4 o'clock, and arrives at ¦Canajoharie in the evening ; exchanges passengers with the Albany and Cooperstown stages, and the next day returns io old Fort Schuyler. Fare for passengers ^ 2,00, way pas sengers four cents per mile, fourteen pounds of baggage gratis — 150 weight rated the same as a passenger. Seats may bo had by applying at the post-office, Whitestown, at the house •of the subscriber old Fort Schuyler, or at Capt. Roofs, Cana joharie. August, 1795. JASON PARKER," '' Letters remaining in the post-office, old Fort Schuyler : peti|le is dds ^bee -vlio base EMMih re gard finr pwarihing, or fin- aay &aag lint Ae 'wndd.'" — Vide 3dTaLSoe.HffiLN.T- KMr. Tkj^inlaidedtobeBK- detatoodtb^tiie peo^feof UtKa V0e p^aiEaafy nici^^iis, be-was dodbflesB miptaliai HeaaiyevajpageofbisjoncBal bears eradenee that be v^ a atan of lajmntnraBd bigolied ¦¦hid, aad ^w AingB, aad pasans, and Ae snail &eMe cboicbes of Aa£ dacf, efpedbl!^ Aoee not «f Ae ''^aoifBg OEda-,°° -wiA a iriatn mieeraUj' bfeared and pcgoffieed. Fraa Ae best aaAodty, Ae s-vAor IE salisSed tbat tiie eariy iabahiiafts cf Utiea apy eciated id^jiBB and idi^D^ pnvi- le^s, as gOMcdlf ae Aey do mw, HMd pidiabif mare so, Ast they 'were m tbe babit, of Heetiag in private bosses ox eves- i^Sjfiir psjET ai^ BoaalaKeliigs,aadftrx^^^aBse^iv^ saam, aad in de scbool bo&se ob JXain Street, on Loid^ da|^ fiar paiGe wrardiqL aad vboi bd prcadhcr vas prra^t Sir pn^er a^ emjEo^Ke neeti^s. FroB'Ae dtarsets- of Mr. Ta^R^ re^iads lespeEti^ oAer seriMBS of Ae eona- tj, A^ are ^aitted eBtinfy, as not aititled to "fuA and eiedit,'° and as aaja^ to a peo^ gaaerally ^ti^idded far fkir iat^ds^aad tbeir aMsal and xd^DBS fiicE, Tbe'iisi; &aiBed boiee ia Utiea s si^posed to have beea erected by CcL JidoaBdEi^ei^-ii^aBibe sriA ade of Wbites- botoSbeetjB^oaar ae^Aeate ^iJtme^ tr^oBaadUact ssEa&?s ^bspB. BeaenPotta seeled a fiamed boase abont vuii.] UTICA, 549 the same time, whioh is yet standing, near the residence of the late F, W. Potter, Col, Bellinger's tavern house, buUt uu the opposite side of the street, at a very early period, is now the rear wing of tho New England House, Thon, as in all new countries, every man in a certain sense, was a tavern kocpor, who had room, provisions and hay, with whioh ho I'ould accommodate '• movers " and persons travelling upou business. In these notices of men, things, and events, tho author i.s sware ho has boon extremely scatta-ing, and has mixed up ingredients which have no apparent afiinity, but ho has pm thom down something in tho order in whioh he found them. and soiuo of tliem camo to hand after others had been con signed to the printer, and this must be his apology for, it may 1)1'. a few slight discrepances. If he has omitted any whom he should have named, tho omission was unintentional, aud happened from non-suggestion or want of data. The following are sorae of the events worth montioniiig which have occurred in Utica, in compai'atively modern llmos : — Maroh 26, 1S2S, a largo meeting was hold in behalf of •ho (Greeks, which resulted in vory liberal contribution? for that, people. On the 9th of September, 1831, a large meeting of tho cit- ixoii.s of Utioa was held at the Court House, in behalf of the Poles then engaged in their last struggle for liberty against Uus.*,in. lion. Nathan WUliams, chairman, and G^en. Joseph Kirkland. secretary. An address and resolutions were adopted, and Messrs. A. B. Johnson, D. Wager, T. H. Hub bard, Joseph Kirkland, Montgomery Hunt, Horatio Sev mour, AVilliam J. Bacon, Rudolph Snyder, Jaines S, Porter, Abraham Culver, E. B. Shearman, Ammi Dows, A. Munson, J .Mcttregor, Aug. Hulburt, James Piatt, John Newland, 550 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTT. [CHAP. E. A Maynard, T. R, Walker, and Dr, J, McCall were appointed a committee to raise funds for the Poles, and trans mit the same to Gen, Lafayette, who had consented to be come the medium of communication between the Americans and that people. The following is his letter acknowledging the receipt of those funds : " Paris, November £9, 1831. " Gbntlemen : — The resolutions, the address, the donation of SOT-l.SQ and the letter which my American fellow citizens of Utica have been pleased to send to me, could not fail to excite those feel ings of admiration, pride and gratitude, the more gratifying to m-y heart when I remember tlie situation of your part ofthe country in the years 1777 and 1794, as well as the welcome bestowed upon me six years ago in your flourishing and beautiful town. The unhappy downfall of Poland will have been known in Utica long before this answer can reach you. But while we have to mourn together over the fate of that heroic nation, and to hope the day of justice shall again rise upon them, 'H'e find some consolation in the thought that the appropriation of fraternal relief could never be so seasonable as it proves to be in their present circumstances. I have requested the American committee that had framed the first address to the sym- liathy of the citizens of the United States, to assist me iu the judi cious distribution of the money entrusted to my hands. AVe meet every week, and there is an understanding between us, the Frencli committee and a committee of the Poles already arrived in this cap ital. Accounts of those proceedings have already been transmitted to New York. Every mark of yonr so long experienced affection and confidence, is to me a most precious treasure. I beg you, gentlemen, to receive yourselves, an& to transmit to the citizens of Utica, the homage of my grateful and affectionate respect. LAFAYETTE." " The Gentlemen ofthe Utica Committee." ' The original of the foregoing letter was preserved in a handsome frame in the Common Council room, until that room and its contents were destroyed by fire. xxirt.]! UTICA, '55T June 25th, 1831, Clinton Market was opened. On Sunday, the 12th of July, 1832, the Asiatic cholera made its appearance, and four persons died during the day, A large portion of the citizens soon left, stores and shops, and even most of the churches, were closed, and nearly all business, except that relating to the sick and the dead, was suspended. From .that time to the 7th of August the dis ease raged, there being 20 1 cases and sixty-three deaths re ported, the latter with seven not reported, or which occurred subsequently, making a total of seventy deaths, July 17th, Ezra S, Cozier, an old and highly respected citizen and a magistrate for many years, fell a victim to the disease, in the forty-eighth year of his age. He devoted his time to the L-are of the sick, to attentions to the bereaved, and the burial if the dead, and in about one hour after visiting the hospital, v,'ai in his grave. He was President of the village several years, and was a man of sound judgment, strict integrity,' and great amiability of heart. The Encampment, Chapter and, Lodge of Masons, of which he had been long a niember, uni ted in erecting a monument over his grave. January 13, 1834, a public discussion of the questions of '• Colonization and Anti-slavery,'' was brought to a close in the Pirst Presbyterian Church, having been commenced in the Reformed Dutch Church, December 31, and continued upon the 3d, 7th, 8th, 9th and 10th inst., with mueh Zealand talent displayed. July 3 1, Town clock completed on Bleecker Street Church. Nov. 18, Parker and Seymour's fiouring mill, at foot of G-enesee Street, below the bridge, destroyed by fire. • • October 21, 1835, the first Anti-slavery State Convention ever held in this- State, convened at the Bleecker Street Presbyterian Church, This was at an early period in the abolition agitation^ — and there were then but about twenty 552 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAF. avowed abolitionists in Utiea. It having been understood that such a convention was to be called at this place, a large meeting of citizens of all classes was held at the court house, at which speeches were made, and a series of temperate and dignified, yet high-toned resolutions were adopted, urging and warning the abolitionists against calling the convention at this place. Notwithstanding this and the remonstrances of the press, etc., the convention was called at the court house, that building having been granted by the Common Council by a vote of 7 to 4 — the Mayor, Hon. Joseph Kirkland, vo ting in the negative. October 17tli, another large meeting was held at the court house, of whieh Rudolph Snyder was president; J. C. Devereux, Ephraim Hart, E. S. Barnum, KeUogg Hurlburt, Adam Bowman, Nicholas Smith, and J. B. Pease, vice presidents ; and Isaiah Tiffany and Wm. C. Noyes, secretaries. Samuel Beardsley, Joshua M. Church, R. B, Bliller, Chauncey Rowe and B, B, Lansing were tho committee, and reported resolutions condemning the action of the Common Council, as an usurpation of power, and an in dignity to the citizens, approving the course of the Mayor and the minority of the Council, and declaring that the meet ing would " not submit to the indignity of an abolition as semblage being held in a public building of the city, reared as this was, by the contributions of the citizens, and designed to be used for salutary public objects, and not as a receptacle for deluded fanatics or reckless incendiaries," and that it was the " incumbent duty of every citizen to make use of all lawful and proper measures to arrest the disgrace which would settle upon the city, by the public assemblage of the convention appointed to be held on the 21st inst," and that this-meeting adjourn to meet at the same place (courthouse) on the 2lst inst,, at 9 A, M, -On the 20th, a meeting was held at the court house by XXUI.] iJTic-A. 55S those who claimed not to be abolitionists, but who were iu favor of " maintaining the supremacy of the laws at all times, and under all circumstances, and who were opposed to any abridgment of the right of free and temperate discussion guaranteed by the constitution.'' Bradford Seymour was chosen chairman, H. Nash, E. M. Gilbert, and Dr, J, P, Batchelder, assistant chairmen, and John Bradish, Jas, Sayre, and James McGregor, secretaries. On motion of Harry Bushnell, Dolphas Bennett, Horace M, Hawes, T, B, Dixon, Di', J, Rathbun and Andrew Hanna were appointed a com mittee, who reported resolutions declaring the right of free dom of speech, and of the press, and of {he people peaceably to assemble ; in favor of maintaining the supremacy of tlio laws by all legal and proper means, and as the only basis upon which our institutions and liberties can safely rest, and of resisting every attempt to invade said right, and promising protection to every American in the free, temperate and un restrained use of the same, and to that end pledging their lives, fortunes and sacred honor. The first resolution was adopted amid mueh confusion, and pending the second, tho meeting adjourned in a row. The officers signed a statement declaring that the assertion of " some vile calumniators " that " this meeting was designed to favor the schemes of the abo litionists" was " a base falsehood." October 21, at 9 A. M. the meeting of citizens was held at the court house according to adjournment with the same officers. The Anti-slavery convention consisting of about 600 delegates, from all parts of the state, met and organized rather hastily, at the Second Church, on Bleecker Street, fey calling Judge Brewster of Monroe County to the chair, and Rev. Oliver Wetmore, of Utiea, was chosen secretary. The day had been ushered ia by the firing of cannon, and thousands flocked to the city from the country and neighboring counties. At the Democratia 554 ANNALS OP ONSSBA COUNTY, fCHAP, County Convention at Hampton, Oetober ISy a resolution bad been adbpted; on motion of Major John- D. Leland, declaring "that the citizens of Utica owe it to themselves, to the State and to the Union, thait the contemjdated convention of incen diary individuals is not-permitted toassemble within its cor porate bounds ; thattheir churches, their court, academy and school roomsibe closed against these wicked Or deluded men, who, ¦whatever may be their pretensions, aa:e riveting the fetr ters of thebond-men and enkindling the flames of eivil strife." The meeting at the court house appointed J. > Watson Williams, Chester Hayden, Geo. J. Hopper, Rutger B, Miller and Harvey Barnar^ a committee, who reported resolutions re-affirming the positions of the former meetings respecting the holding of an Abolition Convention in Utiea, and;advising the appointment of a committee of twenty-five to advise the delegates to that Convention ofthe state of public feeling and sentiment here, and to urge and remonstrate against the as sembling of such convention, and to "warn them to abandon their pernicious movements," etc, etc, iThe eommittee of twenty-five, consisting of Chester Hayden, R, B. Miller, S, Beardsley, Ezra Dean, William Tracy^ J. W, ' Williams, E, A, Wetmore, A, G, Dauby, 0, B, Matteson, G. W, Hubbard, J, D, Leland, Benjamin Ballou, Aug. Hickox, A, B- Wil liams, Julius' A, Spencer, H. Barnard, T, M, Erancis, B, P. Cooper, L Tiffiiny,©.. Wager,. T.S. Gold, A. Blakesley, Bur ton Hawley, Jesse N-ewell and J. H.i Dwight, proceeded to the chureh, attended by a large, concourse of people. After. considerable violence ' sflid force, i an entrance; was elTeeted, amid the greatest noise and confusion,-' The; resolutions of the court-hoBse meeting were read to the Convention, and then the latter was brokten tup amid^a scene, of uproar, threats of violence and imprecations upon the delegates, who were all driven from the house;! :a»d subsequently &om the city. The xxm.] oncA. 555 church was locked and the key taken by G. A. Mann, the agent of the owner of the buUding, and the committee and crowd returned to the court house. At this day these pro ceedings seem strange. The author only designed to give the more proininent facts without " note or comment," as forming an item in the history of Utica. As might have heen antic ipated, hundreds became aboUtionists, merely from sympathy. January lOth and 1 Ith, 1836, snow feU four feet in depth. Sleighing for four months afterwards — hay thirty doUars per ton in AprU. May 5. — Great break in the canal near NaU Creek. July 22. — First engine run over the Utica and Schenectady EaU Road, and Aug. 2, first train of passenger cars arrived at Utica. September 26. — Snow an inch deep. Dec^ember IS. — First burial in the new or west burial ground. On the 31st of March, 1537, the -great fire ' occurred in Utica, the largest which has ever occurred in the place. It e<3mmeneed at No. 53, lower corner of Genesee and Broad Streets, in a row of old wooden stores, which extended down Genesee Street, about half way to the square. These were ouickly swept away, aud the brick stores below were soon ic flames, and their contents, not burned in them, were pUed in front iu the centre of Genesee Street. There being ,-i strong east wind, a sheet of flame was carried nearly across Genesee Street, and soon the fine brick stores on that side -s-ere in flames. Large quantities of goods which had heen nlaced in the centre of the street, melted away under the arch of fire above them. Soon the few buUdings on Broad Street. west of John, and on John below Broad, were in ashes, ex cepting only the fire proof store on John Street, of E. B- Shearman. On the east side of Genesee the fire extended '-'56 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [CIIAP. down to and including the stores fronting the square, excep ting that on the corner of John Street. On the west side of Genesee the fire extended from No. 54 inclusive, to the cor ner of Whitesboro, (two stores on that corner, the site of the log cabin had been burned a few months previously.) des troying ten stores, and the four story temperance house, kept by Captain William Clarke. On Whitesboro Street every thing was destroyed east of the brick dwelling, on the corner of Burchard Street, including " Burchard's Inn,'' upon the site of the McGregor house, and also the small buildings and fixtures in the city garden. The loss for a plaee of its size, was immense, but in the end, the fire, as is generally the case. was the means of greatly improving that part ofthe town. July 25, 1837, Daniel Webster delivered a speech in Steu ben Park. , June 27, 1839. — Pirst train of cars over Syracuse and Uticu Rail Road. September II. — President Van Buren visited the city. August 8, 1840. — Log cabin upon corner of Genesee and Whitesboro Streets completed. August 3, 1841. — Captain William Clark, an old and highly respected citizen, died. Capt. Clark held a lieutenant'^ and captain's commissions in the twenty -third regiment U. S. Infantry, during the war of 1812— he was severely wounded at the battle of Queenston, and received a pension for the remainder of his life. February 5, 1842. — Mohawk bridge at foot of Genesee St carried away. July 17, 1843. — Military Encampment in Utica. July 19. — John Q. Adams visited the eity. January 9, 1844. — Moses Bagg, (Jr.) an old resident and long the proprietor of Bagg's Hotel, died, aged 64. June 19. — Ole Bull's concert. xxm.] mcA. 557 Oetober 19.-— -Thomas James, and Marj- his wife, resident' in the place for many- years« died, aged fortj-nine, and were buried in the same grave. Sept. 16, 1S45. — Fair of State Agricultural Society com menced. May 9. IS47. — ^WhUe Bev. Mr. Corey was baptiting in the Mohawk, a portion of the bridge broke down, and about twenty persons were precipife3>ted into the 'water or npon the w>cks at the flix»t of the hutment. W. O. Smith was killed *nd several injured to a greater or less d^ree. July 4. — Mr. Wise ascended in a baUoon. ^lay 21. ISjI. — ^President FiUmore visited tiie city. During the year 1S50 and winter of 15-31. a lai^ numl^r of "iii-?5t disastrous Sres occurred in the city, nearly aU of which were tbo works of incendiaries. Jnne 5, 1551, James J". Orcutt was convicted at Rome, before Judge Allen, of ar- 5. in in the first degree, inhuming the barns ete. of Butterfield i: Col, in rear of the National HoteL in the htst spiring. Others are indicted tor simUar offisnces: Orcutt wis sen- roneed to be executed on the Ist of August, hut has been re prieved by Gov. Hunt, untU tiie 24th of Oetober next. Re wards amounting to 8 700. had been ofiiered bj the Common r jur;eU for tbe detection of the o&nder& To aUow tiie inteUect of the reader to rest from the con sideration of the -sreightier matters of history, the foUowing -advorrisomonc is ^ven, as rofening to an instance - of the im- pariing and aoi'iisition of knowledge under pecnUar eircom- sta-jees." - 3Ir. Winfield wishes to inform the eitiiens of Uac» and ¦vieinitv. thai he vrill gire an ExAibieioH of his d^school. on Thur^ay Eveuin^ March 12th (1846), at tiie 3Ieehsaiics' HaU. Doors open at 7 o'elodk, and performance at half past 7. Admittance 2-5 ets." §58 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP This is sufficient to keep the great fcMs, the' dogrsckool at No. 22 Post Street, and the public exhiMtioHoi the do^, in remembrance, and with these, the details will be transmit ted by tradition and sangj from generation to generation. Mr. Winfield as a professor of Canagogy, and as a friend to dog and man, received from the citizens of that period many attentions, although he possessed a skin no darker than many ef the great men of antiquity; HISTORY of THE COSPDRATION. As before stated, the eastern line of Whitestown, originally crossed the Mohawk at the fording place, near the log cabin of Mr. Cunningham, which stood at the lower end of Genesee Street, near the site of the Rail-road depot, thus leaving old Eort Schuyler viUage in two towns. Upon the formation of Oneida County, in 1798, the east line of Whitestown and the county, was carried eastwardly to its present location, at the east line of the city. On the 3d of AprU, 1798, an act was passed entitled " Act to vest certain powers in the freeholders, and inhabitants of the village commonly known by the name of old Fort Schuy ler." The first section is as follows : " The district of coun try contained within the following boundaries; to wit : begin ning at a point or place on the south side of the Mohawk River, where the division line between lots No. 97 and 98, in Gosby's manor strikes the said river, thence running souther> ly in thesaid division line to apoint in the same forty chains southerly of the great road leading to Fort Stanwix, thenee east thirty-seven degrees south, to the easterly ,, line of the Gounty of Oneida, thence northerly in the said county line to xxin.J v-ncK.- 55^ the Mohawk river, thenoe westerly up the waters- thereof to tho place of beginning, shall hereafter be known and distin guished by the name of the village of Utica." This is the first act of incorporation of Utica. and gave the inhabitants the right to elect five freeholders as trustees, who had the powers then usually granted to small incorpora ted villages respecting roads, estraj-s, pounds, etc., etc. At a meeting of the citizens previously held to consider the ques tion of incorporation, Utioa was proposed as a name by tbe late Erastus Clark, and adopted, but the reasons for the se lection, and the other names proposed, if any, are matters lost and forgotten. As the records of the village'for the first seven years are also lost, it is not known what was done or who were the viUage officers, excepting that Francis A. Bloodgood was treasurer in 1800 and 1801, and Talcott Oamp in 1802. The act of incorporation has been consider ed somewhat anomalous, because in its title only the name of " old Fort Schuyler" is given, and in the body of the act only that of Utica The west line of the village crossed Whitesboro Street a few feet west of its intersection by "\'arick Street. April 9, 1805, a new charter, more comprehensive in its provisions and powers, was granted to the viUage, and its bounds were extended so as to include lots 98 and 90. By this act five " discreet freeholders " were to be annually cho sen as Trustees. At the first election, held at the school house May 7, 1805, the old trustees presided and Ab'm. Varick, Jr., acted as clerk, and upon counting the baUots Erastus Clark, Jeremiah Van Rensselaer, Jr., Nathan Wil liams, Francis A. Bloodgood and Jerathmael Ballou were lieclared elected trustees. The new board at their first meeting May 13th, appointed David W. Childs, clerk, with a salary of $ 5,00 for the year, Isaac Coe, tresauror, and Wordea -5^ ANNALS OF oSEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Hammond, coUector. They also voted to appoint •' twenty- five able bodied men as firemen," and Gurdon Burchard. Daniel Budlong, John Hooker, Ezekiel Clark, John Hobby, Abijah Thomas, Moses Bagg, Jr., John C. Devereux, Wm. FeUows, Thomas Ballon, Worden Hammond, Ebenezer B. Shearman, Henry Trowbridge, Thomas Walker, Ralph W. Kirkland, Hugh Cunningham, James Bloodgood, Aaron Eg gleston, Judah Williams, Elisha Capron, Rufus Brown, Jas. Van Rensselaer, Oliver Babcock and Benjamin Ballou, Jr.. were appointed Mr. Walker is now the only individual of this number residing in the city, if not the only one living. The fire regulations included only lots 93, 94, 95, 96. Voted that the seal of the trustees " be a heart, with the letter F in the centre." June 3. — Voted that the assize of bread for the ensuing month be as follows : Wheat fourteen shUUngs per bushel, a loaf of superfine wheat flour, to weigh two pounds ten ounces. for one shilling, and other sizes in proportion : a loaf of com mon wheat flour, to weigh three pounds three ounces, for one shilling, with a fine of five doUars for seUing at a higher price, for each ofience. The " assize of bread" was regulated and published monthly, as long as Utica was a vUlage. May 6, 1806. — The old trustees were all re-elected. May 5, 1807. — 3Iessrs. Clark, Van Rensselaer. Ballou. WiUiams and John Hooker were elected trustees, and Geo. Richards appointed clerk, and Abraham D. Van Horne, vU lage attorney. July 13.^ — Memorandum : " Joshua Ostrom and John Culver are appUcants for the next vacancies in the fire com pany." March 7, 1808. — Voted to pay three doUars and six cents for expense of watch for winter of 1805-6. May 3, 1808. — Messrs. Hooker and BaUou, and Morris S. xxm,] UTICA. 564 MUler, John BeUinger and Nathaniel Butler, were elected trustees. In September of this year, a fire engine is first mentioned upon the records preserved, whieh a committee is directed to examine and to make necessary repairs. About this time it appears from memoranda upon the records, that Lewis Ma comber, Walter King, Ira Merrill, Jesse Newell, Watt.s Sherman, Reuben Brown, Lynott Bloodgood, J, H. Beach, John B. Mitchell, John Osborn, Henry B. Gibson, Nathan iel Butler, WUliam Winne, D, W, Childs, Anson Thomas, William Williams, John Bradish, and John Camp, jr,, were applicants for appointments as firemen, Thomas Walker was clerk of the fire company several years, and once a quar ter was required to report all absentees from fires and regu lar meetings, and at the option of the trustees, they were expelled from the company, unless they could make a good excuse. The trustees for 1809, were Messrs. Hooker, Bal lou, Bellinger, Talcott Camp and Solomon Wolcott. January 2, 1810, the trustees "voted that the village pump be put in complete repair, and that a contract be made with some faithful person to keep the same in repair one year." This pump was in the centre of Genesee Street, nearly on a line with the south side of Whitesboro Street, January 11," voted to employ three watchmen for patrol ling the streets," and William Jones, Nitus;Hobby, and Wing were employed, at six shillings per .night, A formidable code of instructions and regtdations was adopted for the government of the watchmen, which are entered at length upon the records. They were required to watch from Judge Cooper's to Morris S. Miller's, at the lower end of Main Street. May, 1810, Messrs. Camp, John C. Hoyt, J, C. Devereux, R. Snyder and Ab'm, M, Walton were elegted trustees. 36 562 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. November 16. — The sum of $ 1,000 having been raised by subscription for purchasing a new fire engine. Watts Sher man, Esq., was appointed agent of the vUlage, to proceed to New York or Philadelphia, and purchase one at a price not exceeding ^1,200. Aboutthis time several buildings were burned, as was supposed by incendiaries, and a reward of $ 150 was ofi'ered for their detection. May, 1811, -^Messrs, Camp, Devereux, Van Rensselaer, Frederick White and Ebenezer B. Shearman were elected trustees. At the annual meeting of freeholders and inhabitants, May 5, 1812, Messrs. Camp, Van Rensselaer, Shearman, Arthur Breese and Thomas Skinner were elected trustees, and voted to erect a public market, at an expense of $ 300, of wood, with stone foundation, to stand " on the public square be tween Mr. Moses Bagg's tavern and the store of Mr. Dever eux.'' This is the square in front of Bagg's Hotel. May, 1 8 1 3. — Messrs. Camp, Shearman, Moses Bagg, Mont gomery Hunt and Seth Dwight were elected trustees ; S. Dwight, clerk. The question of location of the market after wards caused considerable excitement, and subsequently a special town meeting was called to consider the question of removal, but the majority were still in favor ofthe first loca tion. However, at a special meeting, Nov. 2, 1814, the mar ket was ordered to be removed to the corner of Division and Water Streets. The trustees this year were Messrs. Camp, Van Rensselaer, Williams, William Winne and Samuel Stocking. J. H. Ostrom, clerk. This market building is now a part of the City Coffee-house, kept by Mr. Boston. May, 1815. — Abram Van Santvoord, Aug. Hickox, Gur don Burchard, Jason Parker and William Geer were elected trustees. In 1815 and '16, the trustees issued considerable sums in TUXMU] UTICA. 563 B-mall bills, called " shin plasters," varying in denomination from three cents to a dollar. In this, they only followed a custom. prevalent among banks, cities, viUages- and individu als throughout the country. May, 1816. — Messrs. Snyder, Burchard, Geer, Ezra S» Co zier and Hickox were elected trustses, June 13, 1816, the trustees voted to number the buUdings o,a Genesee Street. On the 7th of April, 1817, a new aet of incorporation passed the legislature, and. by, which the west line extended fifty chains south of the-" great road to Bort Stanwix," and thenoe east thirty-seven degrees soutfe to the county line. By this act the- village was divided into three 'wards as fol lows : all east of a line beginning at the river in the. centre, of Genesee Street, thence up Genesee to Jiohai, thence up John to the centre of Broad, thenee down Broa;d to. the. centre of First, thence southerly in the middle of First Street to the south line oi thevillage; was the first ward. All between the west line of tbe first ward' and a line beginning at the south line of the village -in the centre of Genesee Sti:eet, and thence north in the middleof Genesee to a point on a line with the centre of Hotel, thence down the centre of. Hotel Street to and across Whitesboro and along the east wall ofthe York House to the river, was- the second ward; and all west of the last described lina was- the third ward. The officers author ized by this- charter, w«re a president, six trustees-, a; supervi sor, a derk, treasurer, eoUectOE, three assessors and two con stables. By the same act " that part of Whitestown, inclu ded within th'e limits of the village of Utica," was "created into a separate town by the name of Utiea." Trustees in 1817, K S.- "Cozier,' William WiUiams, Jere miah Van Reasselaer, A. Van Santvoord, Erastus Clark, John C. Hoyt, 564 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAF- In 1818, Messrs, Van Santvoord, Rudolph Snyder, Cozier, Enos Brown, Marcus Hitchcock, J. E. Hinman. In 1819, Messrs, Cozier, Hinman, David P. Hoyt, Gurdon Burchard, Snyder, Wm. Alverson. In 1820, Messrs, Cozier, Hinman, James Hooker, Abm, Culver, Ezekiel Bacon, Thomas Walker. Bach ward elected two trustees under the charter of 1817, and their names are given in the numerical order of their wards. The following is a list of the presidents of the village from 1805 to 1831, inclusive: Jeremiah Van Rensselaer, Jr, 1805 and '6; Erastus Clark, 1807 ; Morris S, Miller, 1808; Tal cott Camp, 1809, '10, '11, '12 '13 and '14; Abraham Van Santvoord, 1815; Rudolph Snyder, 1816 and '20; Nathan Williams, 1817, '18 and '19 ;' William Clark, 1824, '25, '28, and '29; EzraS. Cozier, 1821, '22, '23, '26, '27, '30 and '31. Mr. Snyder is the only one of the number now residing in Utica, Utica received a city charter by an act of the Legislature passed February 13, 1882, The city was divided by Genesee Street and the Erie Canal, into four quarters or wards, the north-east quarter being the first ward, the north-west quarter the second ward, the south-west quarter the third Ward, and the south-east quarter the fourth ward. The officers elected under the charter were a mayor, four justices, one supervisor and three constables for the city, and three aldermen, one as sessor and three inspectors of election in each ward. Those appointed by the common council were city clerk, attorney, treasurer, overseer of the poor, street commissioner, survey' or, county and city collectors, two police constables, watch men, etc, etc. The amount of the city tax was limited at $ 8,000, By the school law of 1 843, two school commissioners are elected annually, who hold their offices three years. J -unEA. 5o5 Ob the night ec-tc>rs of deetiim Sar ^idi -wazd. Each 'ward elects one aldaman every year, who holds his c^iee fbr two years ] and the eommon eoosol apptHnt the derk, ciu^ ^igii^ra* c^the £ie AepuimeaA. watchmen, etc. The foUowing is a list €£ the mayns <^ Utica. with the •real of tiieir appointment or election. Joseph Kirkland, 566 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY, [chap. 1832, '34 and '35 ; Henry Seymour, 1833 ; John H, Ostrom, 1836; Theodores. Gold, 1837; Charles P. Kirkland, 1838 j John C. Devereux, 1839 and '40; Spencer KeUogg, 1841 ; Horatio Seymour, 1842 ; Frederick HoUister, 1843 ; "IjVard Hunt, 1844 ; Edmund A. Wetmore, 1845 and '46 ; J, Wat son Williams, 1847; Joshua A, Spencer, 1848; Thomas S. Walker, 1849 and '50 ; John E, Hinman, 1851, Previously to 1840, the mayors were chosen by the common council, and subsequently elected by the people. POPULATION OF UTICA AT VARIOUS PERIODS, It has always been supposed that there was a considerable error in the footing of the census of 1840, as is manifest by a comparison with that of 1845, In 1813 .. ., 1700 In 1829 ... . 8010 " 1816 .. ..' 2861 " 1830 ... 8335 " 1820 ., .. 2972 " 1835 ... . 10,183 •¦ 1823 ., .. 4017 " 1840 ... . 12,782 •• 1825 ., .. 5040 " 1845 ... . 12,190 " 1828 .. .. 7466 " 1850 ... . 17,556 CHURCHES, Previously to the organization of any church in Utica, and some time before 1800, several of the more prominent citizens of various sects and creeds, believing in the propriety and beneficial influences of religious observances, agreed to hold meetings on Sunday, which should be free from sectari- XXIII.] UTICA. 567 anism, and that they would officiate in their various services.. These meetings were held for some time in the school house, where the services of singing, prayer and the reading of a sermon were conducted by men not " in the succession," and, as being " neither one thing nor the other," Blair's sermons were selected for the preaching. But this, like all efforts of the sort, was destined to fail, for some gentleman discovering or imagining that he discovered something counter to his the ological views in one of Dr. Blair's sermons, the union was dissolved, and the church was resolved into its original ele ments. First Utica Presbyterian Church. — On the 2 1 st of August, 1794, the Rev, Bethuel Dodd, a licentiate of the presbytery of New York and New Jersey, was ordained the first pastor of the United Society of Whitestown. The members of this society resided in the villages of Whitesboro and old Fort Schuyler and the country adjacent, and at an early period meetings were held occasionally in the latter village, and, sub sequently, the meetings of this church were held alternately at the two villages. In 1803, " Tfie First Presbyterian Society of Utica "was formed. Stephen Potter and Ebenezer Dodd, the only elders of that church in Utica, presided at the organization and the election of trustees. First trustees : Jeremiah Van Rensse laer, Erastus Clark, Talcott Camp, Apollos Cooper, Benja min Ballou, jr., Benjamin Plant, John C. Hoyt, Nathaniel Butler and Solomon P. Goodrich, Rev. Mr. Dodd died April 11, 1804, aged thirty-seven years, and the Rev. James Carnahan, a licentiate of the presbytery of New Brunswick, and now the venerable president of Nassau Hall College, of Princeton, N, J,, was on the second of January, 1805, or dained pastor over the united Presbyterian churches of 568 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP, Whitesboro and Utica, Mr. Carnahan preached alternately at Whitesboro and Utica until 1812, when ill health comT peUed him to resign his charge. (See History of Whitestown for a more extended account of this church before the di vision). On the 3d of February, 1813, the union of the two churches was dissolved, and on the 4th of the same month, the Rev. Henry Dwight was installed pastor of " The First Utica Presbyterian Church and Society," he and Rev. Mr. Frost, pastor of the church in Whitesboro, exchanging every alter nate Lord's day. Mr. Dwight was dismissed from his charge on the 1st of October, 1817, on account of ill health, having been entirely disabled for several months. On the 4th of February, 1818, Rev. Samuel C. Aikin, a licentiate of the Presbytery of Londonderry, N. H. (and now Of Cleveland, Ohio), was ordained pastor of the church, and discharged the duties of his office with great fidelity, and to the acceptance of his large and increasing congregation, until 1836. On the 9th of May, 1836, Rev. John W. Fowler was in stalled. His successor, Rev. Charles S. Porter, was installed pastor ofthe church and society on the 23d of March, 1842. Rev. William H. Spencer was ordained as pastor, January 13, 1846, and dismissed at his own request in Oetober, 1850. Rev. Philemon H. Fowler, the present pastor, commenced his labors about the 1st of January, and was installed pastor, February 10, 1851, in Concert Hall. Sermon by Rev. Prof Hopkins, of Auburn. The author has been unable to learn the number of members at the time of the organization of the church. During the ministry of Mr. Dwight it numbered about 200, and since its organization about 1600 persons have united upon profession and otherwise. Present number of resident members about x.'ciii.] UTfiCA. 569" 460. In 1826, this church 'with the othersi ib this sectioUi ' enjoyed an extensive revivail of religion. Kev. Charles G. Finney commenced his labors in this society about the 1st of February, and the number of converts in the village was es timated at 500, of whom more than 100 united with this, church that year, upwards of fifty with the Second church, forty with the Welsh Congregational church, many with the: Baptist and Methodist churches, and others of this number united with these churches during the next year. Thia church has also enjoyed revivals at other periods. In 180,7, the ehurch completed its first house of worship, of wood, a very handsome building for the time, and which was occupied nearly twenty years. In 1826, the wooden church edifice, until then occupied, was cut into two parts, one of which is. now the Mansion House, corner of Fayette and Washinglion Streets, and th^i other the large dwelling on, Whitesboro Street, in front of the tannery of the late David P. Hoyt. The society erected in its place on the west side of Washington Street, just below Liberty, the large and beautiful brick church, which was destroyed by the incendiary's torch on the night of the 12th of January, 1851. This building was dedicated Nov. 8, 1827, and was an ornament to the city, and a monument ofthe enterprise and liberality of the chureh and. society. Its cost was about $30,000, and when destroyed: contained an organ which cost $4j000. Its tower and spire were t-yo hundred and fifteen feet in heighth and served as a landmark for the- country around for several miles. The church is erecting during the present summer (1851), a cred itable successor- to, the building destroyed, upon the north-west corner of Washington and Columbia Streets, 73. by 104. feet,- with a buiWing for 'session room, etc, adjoining. Wit a brick tower abouit 100 feet high, surmounted by a spire of' the same heightl)^' a,nd the differe8.ce in the elfevation of. the- wo ANNALS OF ONEiBA COUNTY, [CHAP. site, the steeple' of the new church wiU exeeed that of the former -by about^five feet. Its estimated cost is $40,000, Trinity [Episcopal) ^Church. — The following extracts arc taken.from the records of this church, " -In the year 1 798, the village of Utica was called old Fort-Schuyler, and consisted only in-a.few scattered houses and shops. -No place of worship had been erected, nor was any minister settled in the place. The inhabitants were of different sects of religion, chiefly Pres- , bytei:ians and a few -Episcspalians,'' -In this year the Rev. Philander Chase, a deacon-and missionary of-the Protestant Episcopal Church i(now the Rt. Rev, Bishop of Illinois), on his way westwapd visited the plaee, collected the few Episco palians, and formed them into a society, " and persuaded them to meet together every Sabbath, and read the prayers of *he church and sermons." " This was ¦ done for some time, but other persuasions increasing fest, and the 'Presbyterian minister of Whitesboro being engaged to preach here regu larly, these meetings >werediscontinued. In 1803, the place had greatly increased in population, the Presbyterian minis ter attended 'once in two weeks, but no house of' worship ha-d yet been ereeted, and the meetings were held in the school room, which became crowded." On the 24th of Maiy, 1803, a meeting of the Episcopalians in the place was called, at which 061. Benjamin Walker, William Inman and Abram M, Walton were appointed a committee to solicit subscriptions for buUding a church. The following persons in a short-time subscribed for this ob ject : B, Walker, W, Inman, A. -M, Walton, Bryan Johnson, John Smith, James Hopper, Aylmer Johnson, Matthew Codd, Nathan WiUiams, John C, Devereux, Jeremiah Van Rensselaer, John Post,. Samuel Hooker, Francis A. Blood good, John Hooker, Hugh White, Peter Smith, John axiii.j 'VTioA. 5*71 •s ¦Swartze, Jonas 'Piatt, Thomas R. Gold, Wm, luman, for W,R,, Silas Hamlin, C. C. Broadhead, Charles Z. Piatt, Wm, G. Tracy, -Marcus Hitchcock, Nathan Butler, Charles Walker, John 'Curtiss, Amos Bronson, David Trowbridge, Frederick White, Aaron Eggleston, Hugh White, jr,, Elizur Moseley, Preserved Hickox, P, S. SoUlon, Thomas Jones, Total amount subscribed $2;072,50. June 1st, the subscribers decided to build, and appointed Col. WaHter, Wih. Inman and N. Williams a committee to procure plans and estimates. The plan and estimates of Samuel and-John Hooker at $4,200, were accepted, and they contracted to go forward with the work to the extent of the subscriptions, with the hqpe that funds sufficient would be procured from other sotMtees. August 14, 1804, Trinity Church was organized, according to law, at a meeting in the school house, aad Abram M, Walton and Nathan Williams were chosen church-wardens, and Wm, Inman, Charles Wal ton, John Smith, Benjamin Walker, Samuel Hooker, Ayl mer Johnson, James Hopper and Edward -S-mith, vestrymen, August 25, 1804, $1028 had been collected, and $1,045,69 expended upon the house. , A committee was at this time ap pointed to censult the Rt,. Rev, Bishop Moore, " as to the propriety of engaging a minister for one year," engaging to pay him $500, Soon after, the Rev, Jonathan Judd was en gaged as minister for a part of the time, he preaching the oth er part in Paris, In September, 1806, the chureh was con secrated by the Rt, Rev, Bishop Moore, although then, and for several years afterwards, the edifice was in a very incom plete state. Upon the same occasion, Mr, Amos, G, Baldwin, of Stockbridge, Mass., was ordained, a deacon, and eighteen persons were confirmed. In the latter part of 1806, Rev. Mr. Baldwin succeeded Mr. Judd, and May 18, 1808, he was instituted as rector of the -church. In 18D8, Sir James 572 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [CHAP, Puitney and lady Pultn«-y gave the chtutch 265 acres of un improved land, a part of the Puitney estate, in Eaton, Mad ison County. During the winter of 181ft, this church occu pied the Presbyterian house of worship, and during the fol lowing season the church (edifice was complieted, January 7, 1811, thirty-one pews were sold for $1,142, and a yearly rent of $235, was reserved, and this year Trinity Church of' New York gavethis church four lots in that eity, then renting for $255, and the Eaton lands were sold under an sffit of the Legislature, From Easter, in 1813, the rector officiated two-^ thirds of the time. May 12, 1818, Rev. Mr, Baldwin resign ed his charge, and Aug. 22, 1819, Rev. Henry Moore Shaw received a call to the vacant rectorship, which he accepted. May 22, 1821, Rev. Mr. Shaw resigned his charge, and May 29, the Rev. Henry Anthon received a ©all, and was institu ted rector. Sept, 26. January 19, 1829, Rev, Mr, Anthon resigned his charge, to accept the rectosship of St. Stephen's Church, New York City, and May 15thfollowing, Rev, Ben jamin Dorr received a call to become his successor. October G, 1835, Rev. Mr. Dorr, resigned his charge, and January 16, 1 836, Rev, Pierre A, Proal, D. IX, the present incunv bent, became rector of the church. In 1833, the ehurch edi fice was, in the language of its records, " elongated," ani made much more commodious, and otherwse improved. In June, 1851, the building was found to be unsafe, and services- were discontinued until it shall have been thoroughly re-- paired. Number of communicants reported in 1842, 142 ; in 1846,, 127 ; in 1850, 145.. First ( Welsh) Baptist Church. — This-church isthe oldest regular church organizatioo in the city, although the Pres byterians and Episcopaliaais held religious meetings- previ- XXIU.) tTlCA. 6fo ously toi its foPnaation. in 1799, 1800 and 1801, several Welsh Baptists emigrated to this place, and soon .eommenced religioos' meetings, with se!f vices in the W^h language. On the 12th of Sept, 1801, twenty-two persons met at the log house of ^ohn WiUiams, upon the road opposite the Lu- ¦natic A'syluffi, and formed the First Baptist Church of Utica. Of their nuse/ber were. Elder James Harris and Elder John Stephen's, who officiated as ministers. In 1806, Abraham WiUiams, James Morgan and WUliam Francis were elected the first truces, and within this year the church erected a house of worship. This house was erected on the west side of Hotel Street, where the firie Canal now runs. Previously to lie construction ofthe canal, it was removed to the site of their present church on Broadway, and afterwards was convert-ed into a dweUing on Charles Street. Joseph Harris and John Reed were chosen the first deacons. The records are incom plete and the names of none but the foUowing ministers have been obtained, in addition to Elders Harris and Stevens. In 1 806, Elder Abraham Williams, who had been licensed and ordained by the church, tn 1814, Elder Stevens returned from Xew York, and hecame a second time pastor — and at the same time Elders David Griffiths and Joseph Richards, and subsequently Elder David Michaels, were members of and preached to the church. In 1 836, Elder WiUiam H. Thomas ; in 1841, Elder WUUam F. PhUUps; in 1845, El der David PhilUps ; in 1848, Elder Hugh Hughes, became pastors. In 1850, Elder David Jenkins, the present pastor, took charge of the church. AU the services of this ehurch have continued to be conducted in the Welsh language. Its house of worship stands upon the west side of Broadway, a short distance below Liberty Street, and having heen en larged and repaired, weU accommodates the ehurch and setn- etv- The church numbers about 100 communicants. 57-i' ANNALS OP ONEIDA COtTNTY. [CH'AP, The Rev; David Griffiths was for man^ years well known in Utica, as a Welsh Baptist preacher^ and although never pastor of this- church, he often supplied them when destitute of a- pastor. The following is copiedt from the handaome monument over his grave-; Mewn Coffadwriaeth amiy-'dlweddar Ba»eh. Dafydd Gruffydd uc o weinidogion y Bedyddwyr yn preswylio yn Ffrankffort. Yr Hwn a fu Farw Khag, 27, 1840, yn-68 ain, mlwydd a deng mis Oed. Brodor ydoedd o Sir Benfro Deheub'arth Cymru efe a ymfudodd i America -ynyfiWyddyn, 1818. Yma Gorphwys mewn hun felys Un a weision dawnus ne Yn y ddugell rho'wd ei briddeU. Newid pabell wnaeth efe. Bros heu byngeiau Calfin golau Hoff y seintiau dygal sel : Moli'r Drindbd am y cyramod- Yn ddiddarfod 'nawr a wnel. Welsh- Congregational- ChurcJi. — In i801, ten Welsh Congregationalists residing in Utica, united with the Pres byterian church in Whitesboro, In 1802, several Others ar rived from Wales, andthe Rev. Daniel Morris came from Philadelphia, and those just arrived, and the ten first named in all frora fifteen to t'speaty in numbevj' constituted. a WelsL Congregational Church, which was the second regular ohurch organization in Utica. Until 1804, the chureh held its meetings in private houses, but within this year they erected a small framed house of worship, on the site of their present house, on the corner of Washington and Whitesboro Streets, and which wae the first church completed in the village. Subsequently, a larger framed house was erected in its place, and which in xxm.] UTICA. ^ 57^, 1834, was replaced by the-present neat and' commodious brick edifice. In 1810, Rev. Mc, Morris resigned his charge and for sev eral years the church was suppUed by Rev, John Roberts, by Rev, WiUiam Pierce of Steuben, and by John Roberts and Rowland Griffiths,- licentiates, members of the church, but who were never ordained. Subsequently the*following cler gymen were pastors of the church forthe periods -stated, viz': Rev. Howell R. Powell, for one year. Rev. Benjamin Powell, for several years. Rev, Robert Everett, for about ten years,- Rev, James Griffiths, for about sixteen years. Rev, Evan Griffiths, the present pastor, commeneed his la bors in 1849. The church is- in a harmonious andf flourish ing condition, and has a large congregation. Its- services have ever been conducted in the Welsh language.- Present number qi communicants about 300. Mr, John Hughes was a worthy member of this church, and although not an ordained preacher, it is said that he fre quently preached in the absence of a pastor. The following is copied from his tomb stone: '- In memory of John Hughes, a native of South Wales, who- de parted this Ufe, September 8d, A. D. 1831, Ae, 62,- Mewn rhyfel bu'fe yma'n hir Yn colli ac yn ennill tir ; Ond' nawr gorphenodd ar ei waith, Ac aeth yn deg i ben ei daith. Second [Broad Street) Baptist Church. — On the 23d of September, 1819, at a regulaj- meeting of the First (Welsh) Baptist Church a vote was adopted that the church take into consideration until the next meeting, " the propriety ef giving S76 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. permission to all such as feel disposed to enter into covenant ¦as a second church," etc. The reason given for this step was, the inconvenience under which many of the members suffer ed, from the fact that a part of the services were in a lan guage they could not understand. October 7, the church voted, that all who were disposed so to do, should have the approbation of the church in uniting to form the Second Church, and accordingly seventeen members, seven males and ten females, were dismissed for that purpose. (Of this number was Elder Hammond, who died August 20, 1820, aged sev enty-nine years). David Reed and John Grey were appoin ted deacons. Within the same month the new church exten ded a call to the Rev, Elijah F. Willey, of Lansingburgh, to become their pastor, which was accepted, and he commenced his labors on the second Lord's-day in November, 1819. Elder WiUey resigned his charge January 1, 1827. The fol lowing is a list of the clergymen who have been pastors of the church, with the dates when they Vere called, and when they resigned their charge, Eev, John C. Harrison, called Jnly g!0, 1827, Resigned June 5, 1828, '¦ William Hague, " Nov, V7, 1828, " Aug. 30, 1830. " Elon Galusha, " Dec, 27, 1830, " April 18, 1833, " Edward Kingsford, " Mch,31, 1834, " Dec, 31, 1835, " Thomas Wilkes, " May 30, 1836, " May 1, 1837; " Baniel Eldridge, " Aug. 1837, " June, 1841. " Dudley C. Haynes, " Oct, 4, 1841, " Oct. 30, 1843. " HoratioN. Loring, *¦' Nov. 8,1844, Died Aug. 14, 1847. " Edmund Turney, " July 9, 1848, Resigned June 2, 1850. Kev. Thotoas O. Lincoln, the present pastot was called to the charge of the church on thp 4th of August, 1850, and having resigned his charge in" Manchester, N. H,, he imme diately entered upon his labors here. XXIII.] ' UTICA, 577 On the 26th of January, 1820, the church and society be came incorporated under the statute by the name of " The Second Baptist Society of the village of Utica," David P, Hoyt and Edward Gilbert, presiding officers, and John Gray, David P, Hoyt, William Francis, David Reed and Edward Gilbert were eleeted trustees. On the 15th of February following, the trustees voted, " that this society immediately take the most efficient measures to procure a site in some centtal place in the ¦villsige of Utica, and build a handsome meeling-house, or house of public worship, sixty feet long tind forty feet wide," Consequently, a lot was purchased (the site of their present church edifice on Broad Street), and a house of 'worship erected during the spring and summer of 1820, In 1826, the trustees were increased to nine, and the following persons constituted the board that year, viz, r Alexander M, Beebee,' Thomas H, Whittemore, D, P, Hoyt. John Baxter, Benjamin Ballou, Wm, Francis, ¦John B. Hinman, Edward Bright, sen., and Da'vid Reed. In 1830, the houae of worship was repaired and improved, by changing the pulpit from rear to front and constructing a gallery. June 21, 1847, the board of trustees, by a com mittee, reported, that the time had " eome when the chu^ieh ought to erect a new house of 'Worship,'' and this was followed immediately by the action of the church, and, in August following, contracts were made for the erection of the present beautiful house On Broad Street. This honse having been completed and entirely paid for, was dedicated September 21, 1848. Present number of communicants about 1 75. St. John's [Catliolic) Church. — This church Was organ ized in 1819, and was the first Catholic church formed in Central or western New York, since the settlement of the country. Its first church edifice was of wood, and 'vrtiich 87 578 ANNALS OF- ONEIDA COUNTY, , [oiIAP, about ten or. twelve years since, was removed across Bleecker Street; and the present large edifice erected in its place. The late Johu C, Devereux was the greatest benefactor of this church, having contributed over $ 12000 towards build ing the brick house of worship. In connection with this church is an orphan asylum under the management of sev eral Sisters-of Charity, and adjoining there is a day school for boys and girls. The church is the largest in the city, and on Sundays, and other days, when open for service, is generally filled to overflowing. Many attead here from con siderable distances in the surrounding country. First Metlwdist Episcopal Church. — The Methodists have had religious services in Utica since 1808, and a con gregation was constituted in that year, but no records have been found of a regular organization for many years subse quently. The earliest written evidence upon the subject which the author has been able to discover, is the record of a quarterly meeting conference, held October 12, 1822, at the " Utica Station," of which Rev. George Peck was chairman-, and Thomas Christian, secretary. Mr. Goodenough was ap pointed steward in Slayton's Bush, Mr. Tisdale in Frank fort, Reuben Mather in Schuyler, and Andrew Nash in Utica. This society, by the name of " First Society of the Methodist Episcopal Chureh," was organized, under the statute. May 23, 1826^ and Thomas Christian, James C. Belong, Jacob Snyder, Erastus Cross and Trustham Dun-- ham, elected trustees. Their present brick house of worship on Bleecker Street, was erected in 1826, and dedicated Feb ruary 22, 1827. The small brick chapel, previously oiccupied by this church, on the corner of Main and Third Streets, was erected in 1816, but was abandoned on accovmt of its being too small for the congregation and its location so far xxm.] UTICA, 579- from the centre of the village. The following clergymen have been pastors of the church, nearly or quite in the order in which their names are given, and they have generally re mained two years each, viz, : Rev. Messrs. Benjamin Pad dock, George Harmon, Zechariah Paddock, E, Bowen, Mr. Stone, Z. Paddock, Dan Barnes, Joseph Castle, William N. Pearne, Schuyler Hoes, Bostwick Hawley, D. W. Bristol, David A. Shepard, Horatio R; Clark. Rev. WilUam Wyatt, the present pastor, took charge of the church in August, 1 849. The society is in a prosperous condition, and its house is well filled. Present number of communicants about 330, Universalist Society. — The First Universalist Society of Utiea was organized November 21, 1825, under the ministry of the Rev, John S, Thompson, Messrs, Andrew S. Pond, Daniel James, John R, Ludlow, John Hickox and Roswell Woodruff, were elected first trustees; John R, Ludlow, treasurer ; John King, clerk, Ezra S. Barnum and William Stevens were elected deacons, A number of years after wards, it was discovered that there had been some informality in the early proceedings, and accordingly a re-organization was legally effected July 10, 1837, Messrs, Woodman Kim ball, Thomas L. Kiiigsley, Joseph P, Newland, Orrin Mar shall, Alvin White, Benjamin F, Jewett and Orrin Hutchin son, were elected trustees. The church erected by the Universalists on Devereux Street, was dedicated March 18, 1830, and remained in their possession until March 28, 1845, when it was sold under the foreclosure of a mortgage. From that time, the society ceased to act. The pastors were Rev. Dolphas Skinner, from 1827 to 1837 ; followed by Rev. 3Iessrs. A. B. Grosh, M. B. Smith, T. D. Cook, W. Andrews and H, B, Soule, The Universalists again commenced regular worship in 580 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, -[CUAT. Mechanics' Hall, October 1, 1848,' " The Central Universal ist Society of Utica, N.Y.," was organized April 23, 1849, Messrs, Ezra S. Barnum, Grove'Penny, Benjamin F, Jewett, 'David Owens, Alvin White, D, V, W, Golden and L, M, Taylor, are the present trustees. Rev, Eben Francis, the present pastor, commenced his labors in October, 1848, In the present summer (1851), the society are engaged in the erection of a substantial church edifice of stone, in the Gothic style of architecture,' covering an area 45 by 75 feet, with towers of the same material, projecting from the front corners, carried to the heighth of about sixty feet,' This building stands upon Seneca Street, near Columbia Street, fronting Genesee Street and will be an ornainent to the city, and highly creditable to the taste and spirit ofthe society. The corner-stone was laid on the 15th of July, and a box depos ited within it, containing many interesting relics. Rev. E. H. Chapin, of New York, delivered an. address upon the Welsh Calviiiistic Metlwdist Church. — This church was organized February 21, 1830, by ten persons of this denomi nation from Wales. The author has been unable to find any records of this church, or to learn much of its history. Upon its foi^mation, Robert I. Jones, Evan Roberts and Richard Hughes, were chosen elders. Rev. Benjamin Davis became pastor in 1830, and remained five or six years, and was suc ceeded by Rev. William Williams, who remained several yeajs. Rev. David Stevens was the next pastor, and re mained from bne to two years, and was succeeded by Rev. Morris Davis, then just arrived from Wales, but who was removed by death in a short time. Rev, Morris Roberts and Rev, WiUiam Rowlands have also been pastor?. Rev. Messrs. Enoch Samuel and David Lewis are the present XXIII.], UTICA, $81 preachers. In 1830, the society erecte.d a brick chapel pn Seneca Street, which was much enlarged in 1846, an3 is now a large and convenient house. The church numbers abbu.t 190 communicants. The Calvinistic (sometimes called Whit field) Methodists are the followers of Calvin, with respect to the points of doctrine whioh distinguish his disciples from those of Arminius and Wesley. Reformed Dutch Church. — " The Reformed Dutch Church of Utica", was organized October 26, 1830, with forty mbm- < bers. Its first officers were Abraham Varick -and Geprge M, Weaver, jr,, elders; and Nicholas G, Weaver an^ Richard Vaughan, deacons. When this information. was obtained in 1849, its officers were George M. Weaver, Justus H. Rath bone, Rufus Northway and Thomas H. Wood,, elders; and WUliam Waleott, Thomas E. Ckrke, N. * F. Vedder and William J. Bacon, deacons. In 1830, its house of worship on the corner of Broad and John Streets, was erected at a cost of about $ 15000. The Rev, George W, Bethune was the first pastor, and commenced his labors November 7, 1830. The Rev. Henry Mandeville commenced' August 17, 1834, and resigned his .charge for a professorship in Hamilton College, and Rev. John P, Knox became his successor, July 5, 1841. Rev. Charles Wiley, the present pastor, entered upon the duties of his office, June 15, 1845. The house of worship of this church is a neat and commodious structure, with no attempt at ornament or show on the outside, but its interior is one of the most pleasant in the city. The, church and society have ever included their full share of the intelli gence and moral worth of the community, a,nd haye Remanded in their' pastors the most respectable talents and rank in their profession, and while they have exerted a conservative influence over others, they have begn preserved from fanat- '582 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP icism and instability on the one hand, and their opposites, anti-nomianism and inactivity, on the other. Present num ber of communicants about' 225, Ebenezer Baptist Church. — "The 'Ebenezer Baptist Church of the city ' was organized in the school room, then their place of meeting, No. 10 Fayette Street, on the 10th day of January, 1835, with seven members, five males and two females. Joseph Goodliff was chosen deacon, and Wil liam Towers, clerk. Thomas Hill, one of the little band, was unanimously chosen pastor, and was accordingly ordained. May 11, 1835, to fill that office, in which he remains to this day. In 1836, they built the house in which they now meet, on the south side of Columbia, between Broadway and Cor nelia Street." This church belongs to that class known as " Anti-inisslon Baptist Churches," as they' do not fellowship or co-operate with Missionary, Bible, Tract, Sunday School, or Education Societies. With respect to baptism and com munion, they agree with the other Baptist churches in the city, and are " High Calvinists," as that term is generally understood, beUeving in " special election," " particular atone ment," " total depravity,'-' " perseverance of saints," etc. Bleecker Street Baptist Church. — On the 3d of December, 1837, the Broad Street Baptist Church adopted resolutions approving an effort to sustain preaching in West Utica, upon the ground then recently given up by the Third Presbyterian Church (the Third Church was dedicated January 10, 1833), and appointing Deacon Asa Sheldon, A. M. Beebee, Palmer Townsend and Edward Bright, jr., a committee (in connec tion with Francis Wright, Deacon Harlow Hawley and Alfred Corban, not members of the church), to raise funds for that object, aild superintend the interests connected therewith, un- xxm.] UTICA. 5S3 til the 1st of May then next. Meetings were commeneed in the building known as " Old Bethel," . on the corner of Fayette and Varick Streets, and such clergymen as could be procured, were employed from week to week. In January following (1838), a protracted meeting was commenced in that plaee, and the indications and interest were so favor able, that shortly afterwards Elder Jacob Knapp, the distin guished revival preacher, was procured to conduct the meet-^ ings. Such was the progress of the work, that in a few days the " Old Bethel" would scarcely hold one in ten of those who came, and an invitation to occupy the church then known as the Second Presbyterian Church on Bleecker Street (now occu pied by this church) was' accepted, and the latter house was soon filled to overflowing. That was a time never to be for gotten by those who then resided in Utica, Religion, the meetings and the progress of the revival, engrossed the time, the thoughts and conversation of the mass of the population, and all classes, ages and conditions, came under their influ ences. Such was the crowd at the Second Chtlrch, that the First Presbyterian Church kindly opened the doors of their house, and, for some time, that house was equally as well and uncomfortably filled, while hundreds were unable to gain an admission even'there. The meetings were brought to a close about the middle of March, and the number of those hope fully converted was estimated by some as high as eight hun dred, and by others at a thousand. On the 21st of March, 1838, a meeting was held at tho dwelUng of Edward Bright, jr,, of which Deacon Asa Shel don was chosen chairman, and Horace H, Hawley, secretary. Eleven persons (five males and six females) presented letters of dismission from Baptist churches — (seven from the Broad Street and four from the Trenton Village Churches) — all of which were approved as regular. This meeting voted': 584 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAF, " That we form ourselves -into a church by the name of the Rethel (Baptist) Church of Utica," Asa Sheldon and Pal mer Townsend we,re chosen deacons, and H,. H, Hawley, church clerk, and Messrs. Townsend and Bright were ap pointed a committee " to prepare a code of Articles of Faith and Practice, and report at the next meeting," In the first year the church received 125 members, eighty by baptism, forty- two by letter, and three by experience, July 26, 1838, the church was recognized as a regular church in fellowship with the Baptist denomination, by a council of delegates from other churches in the vicinity, August Sth the church and society were incorporated under the statute and Messrs. Edward Bright, jr,, John Reed, Palmer Town send, Morven M, Jones, Francis Wright, Mancer M, Backus and Elihu Stone elected trustees. In 1839, the church erect ed the house of worship on State Street, (dedicated Aug, 7), now owned by the Methodist Episcopal Church, at an expense of over $ 4,000, for a large proportion of whioh, they were in debted to the liberaUty and good will of persons belonging to other societies. Upon the removal of Deacon Townsend to New York, Harlow Hawley was chosen deacon, July 6, 1838, For several years this church was the station of the American Bethel Society, and a committee of its members, during the season of navigation, visited the boats lying in the city on every Lord's day morning, and invited boatmen and passen gers to attend the meetings, , For two or three years it was also aided in its funds by the New York State Baptist Mis sionary Convention, On the 1st of January, 1845, the ehurch removed to its present house on Bleecker Street, having ta ken a lease of the former lessees, and in Feb., 1847, the church purchased this house of Mrs, Dudley of Albany, Since then the house has been very much improved and re paired inside and out, and by the erection of a spire in place xxm,] UTJOA. 585 of the one blown off in the fall of 1834. This house was erected by the Second Presbyterian Church, and dedicated August 24, 1826, and by that body occupied untU about 1839, and subsequently it was occupied by a Congregational church under the care of Rey. Messrs. TheodorcSpencer and C. Edwards Lester, and afterwards by the Westminster Church, and for a time was unoccupied. The church under notice have enjoyed several revivals, the results of protracted meetings. Since its forigation ahout 378 have been added, by baptism, and the largest number of baptisms reported (since its first year), were in . 1847, fifty-seven, and 1848, eighty-four. Present number about 350. The venerable Deacon Asa Sheldon, died March 19, 1848, in the 88th year of his age, having been a member of the Baptist Chureh sev enty-four years, Inthe spring aud summer of 1838, Mr, Coroden H. Slaf- ter, a member of the HamUton Theological Institution, preach ed to this church, and on the 23d of August -he was ordained by this church as a missionary to Siam, where he died April 7, 1841. October 1, 1838, Rev. L. O, Lovell became pastor and resigned his charge January 27, 1840, On the Oth of December, 1839, Mr, Edward Bright, jr. (then of the firm of Bennett & Bright, booksellers and publishers), was licensed by this church to preach the gospel, and on the 17th of April following received a call to become pastor of the church, and was ordained as such on the 3d of June. On the 12th of November, 1841, Rev. Mr, Bright resigned his charge, and on the 14th of the same month Rev. Daniel G, Corey, the present pastor, received a call to the office, and entered upon its duties the first Lord's day in January, 1842. During his pastorate, thus far, he has baptised 236, and 144 have been added by letter. (The Second Presbyterian Church was organized May 6, 5'86 ANNALS OF ¦ONEIBA COUNTY. [Cll.iP. 1824, under the pastoral eare of Rev, 'S, W, Brace, and erected the house of worship, as before .stated, on Bleecker Street, in 1826. On the 7th of March, 1831, this church and society were re-organized under the name of the " Bleecker Street Presbyterian Society." After Mr. Brace, Hev. Dirck C. Lansing, D. D., was pastor for several years, and Rev. Mr. Savage was pastor in 1837-8. The church being largely in debt, the house of worship was sold at some time not far f^pm the re-organization, and became the prop erty of Mrs. Blandimi Dudley of Albany, and six individ uals Ln the church took a lease Ksf the house for t'Wenty years send became responsible for the rent, etc.) Grace [Episcopal) Church. — This •church Jvas organized in May, 1838. At the time of its institution there were but^ tweisty-'six persons in the congrega/tion of a sufficient age to read the services of the chureh, and a much smaller number of communicants. First Vestry : Dr. P. B. Peckham and Ziba Lyon, war dens ; Messrs. Samuel Beardsley, John E. Hinman, J. Wat son Williams, James M. Stocking, Alex. S. Johnson, Charles S. Wilson, Isaiah Tiffany and James M. Lewis. Rev. Albert Clark Patterson was chosen the first rector. Soon after its organization, the church took measures for the erection of the small chureh edTfice of wood upon the south east corner of' Broadway and Columbia Street, and in 1842, a considerable addition was made to this building. The chureh is now preparing to erect one of the most expensive and beautiful church edifices in central New York, one which shall in architectural design and execution, and in the quality of material, be an honor to the city and to tbe enterprising society by which it is erected. From the period of its organ- iaation, this chureh has always been in a most flourishing xxm,] imcA, 58r «ondition, with frequent accessions to its members and an increasing congregation. Rev, George Leeds, the present rector, enteted upon the duties of his office in 1 843, Number of communicants reported in 1842", 96; in 1846, 132; in 1850, 157. St. Raid's [Episcopal) Chiirch. — Rev, Marcus A, Perry, rector, was organized several years since in West Utica, and Occupies the building known as "' Old Bethel," on Fayette Street. Number of communicants reported in 1850, 18. This church designs soon to erect a house of worship in the west part of the city. Calvary [Episcopal) Church. — This is a newly organized church upon " Corn HUl," and is under the care of Rev. Wm, A, Matson, This church is erecting during the present summer (1851) a small church edifice of wood; in that section of the city, St. Joseph's [German) Catholic Church. — This church was organized Oetober 15, 1840, and is located upon Fayette Street, at its junction with Whitesboro Street, When formed, the church included about sixty families, and now numbers about 200 families, all natives of the German States, and its services are conducted' in the German language. I, N. Lanzer, Joseph Masseth, sen,, John Paul, Ignatius Meyers and Matthias Fritz, composed the first committee, having charge of the property. Rev, Joseph Prost became rector in 1842, and remained one year; Rev, Adelpert In- nama became his successor in the summer of 1S43, and he was succeeded by Rev, Florian Schwenninger in' August, 1844, 58§ ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP, German LutJieran Church. — This chureh by the name of " The United Evangelical Lutheran and German Reformed Congregation of the City of Utica," was organized on the 15th of May, 1842, at its place of meeting, the " Old Bethel,;' on Fayette Street, West Utica. It was formed with fifty-six communicants, all natives of Germany, and its services have ever been conducted in the German language. Its first offi cers were, Charles A. Wolf, sen., and Michael Breitenstein, elders ; and John M. Hahn, Daniel Beeker and John G,, Hoerlein, trustees. Present officers (1851), Henry Frank furt, John Seng and George Neeger, elders ; and DanieJ Becker, Paul Agne, John Beisiegel, Lewis Martin, John Blaas and John Spindler, jr., trustees. Their first house of worship was ereeted upon the south side of Columbia Street, upon the eastern side of the site of St, Patrick's Church, at a cost of about $2000, and was dedicated September 28, 1844, and, with other buildings, was destroyed by the hand of the incendiary, on the night of the 28th of February, 1851. The church,- during the present season, is erecting a commodious house of worship of brick, upon the south-west corner of Cooper and Fay Streets, at an estimated expense of about $ 4000. The present pastor. Rev. A. Wetzel, has devoted his time and talents to the welfare of this church ever since its formation, and he enjoys, in an eminent degree, the love and respect of the pastors and members of the other evangelical churches in the city, as well as of the citizens generally. During a considerable portion of the time, he has taught a day school for the benefit of the children of the members of his society, and a flourishing Sunday school is eonnected with the church. Amid the many discourage ments arising from the loss of the house of worship, the pov erty of most of the German emigrants, and the fact that our G erman population is gathered from nearly every state in Xxm.] UTicA. 589 the Germanic confederacy, with their peculiar national and local views and prejudices, he has ever labored on zealously, peacefully and successfully, in the humble sphere of his vo' cation, although his talents and acquirements would Tvell grace some of the higher positions in our country. Cherish ing such views of the pastor, the citizens of Utica hav.e, to a limited extent, contributed to the funds of the church, for building their houses of worship. Present number of com municants, -165^ Westminster Presbyterian Chwch.r— At the time of the dissolution of the Second Presbyterian Church, it was evi dent, that there was in the city sufficient material, in a dis connected state, to form an efficient Presbyterian Church. On the 25th of January, 1839, a Congregational Church was organized, and held its meetings, for a period, in the " Second Church," on Bleecker Street, and for a while in the Museum Building, the Museum having been removed to the " Exchange Building ; " but for reasons unknown to the author, this church was dissolved. On the 6th of May, 1844, " The Westminster Pres^terian Society of Utica " became incorporated, at a meeting held in the old " Second Church," which house they occupied tbe remainder of that year. On the 23d of July, the church was organized with 70 members. On the 1st of January, 1845, the church purchased, and took possession of the house of worship erected by the Universal ists on Devereux Street, which was subsequently enlarged by an addition to the rear, and otherwise much repaired and beautified. This house was erected in 1829-3b. Messrs, Sylvester Aylsworth, Theodore Pomeroy, Silas Gaylord, S. Z, Haven and Hugh Rendell, were chosen elders, upon the formation of the church. Rev, Joshua H, Mcllvane, the first pastor, was installed February 5, 1845, by the Pres* 590 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. fcHAP. by tery of Albany, and resigned his charge October 1, 1847. Rev. Hugh Dickson, the present pastor, entered upon, tho duties of his office, August 1, 1848 (installed Oetober 31, sermon by Rev, Dr, Sprague, of Albany), and under his min istry, the church has been highly prosperous, and the congre gation has increased to such an extent that the house is fre quently crowded. This chureh is in connection with the " Old School" General Assembly, Present number of com municants about 125, State Street Methodist Church. — The "Bethel" Baptist Church having found it very difficult to sustain a church of that denomination in West Utiea, while they were compelled to make up a considerable deficiency at the end of each year, and more of its members residing east of Genesee Street than in the section of their loca.tion, decided upon removing to Bleecker Street, about 1st of January, 1845, For a consid erable part of the next year and a half, their house of wor ship on State Street, was occupied by an Anti-slavery Baptist Society, under the care pf Rev, Mr, Grosvenor, On the 1 st of August, 1847, the State Street Methodist Episcopal Church was organized, with seventeen communicants, and soon afterwards purchased this church edifice. The first trustees were, Frederick Humphreys, H, C. Stearns, J. S, Kirk, Wm. Roberts and Mordecai Wing ; and Moses Sipher, H. C. Stearns and Thomas Ward, sen., were first stewards. Rev. Joseph Hartwell was assigned by the Conference to this church, on the 4th of August, 1847, and remained two years, and Rev. Isaac Foster, the present pastor, commenced his labors in August, 1849. Present number of communi cants about 130, This chureh is in- a flourishing condition, and under tlie peculiar organization of the Methodist Church, wiU, doubt- xxuk} UTICA.. • 50>V less, contin'ue to prosper. The erection ef three extensive manufacturing establishments, and. the grea.t increase in other branches of business in West Utica*, with the large increase of population, have rendered this field an excellent -one for an additional evangelical church, Israelites.. — "Beth Israel^" JeWs' Synagogue, was estab lished on the 1st of Oetober, 1848, and included about twenty famUies, Its first trustees were Harris A, Hershfield, Max Levy and Eleazer Hart, This association fitted up arid oo- eupies the small wooden hotsse of worship, near the corner of Whitesboro and Hotel Streets, and every " seventh day," a considerable number of these descendants of Abraham repair to their " Beth," to worship ,the God of their fathers, after the manner of the law delivered to Moses, Most of this people in this city are from the German States and Poland, whence they have fled to this country, to enjoy the right of worshipping God according to their own law; aaid to escap© the esaeiions of the tyrants who rule their native lands. Rabbi Pinkus Rosentoll leads them in their worship, and they now number about forty fa-mlMes, , Welsh Methodist Episcopal Chm-.ch.'—^h.e Welsh Meth odist Episcopal Church was formed about the 1st of Septeni? ber, 1849, with twenty-seven, member's, and for the "first eight months occupied a room on Liberty Street. Its first officers were, Jo-hn Perry, Thomaa Morris, John H, Jones, William W. Jones, Evan E. Jones, and Thomas Hughes, trustees ; John Perry, steward ; and Wm, Davies, secretary. On the 1st of May, 1850, the church purchased the building, on Washington Street, known as the " Coramercial Lyceum," and have fitted up and since occupied the. same as a house of ¦worship. The Eev, Messrs, Rees Davies and Thoma9 S92 ANNALS op ONElDA COUNTY. [CHAP, Hughes w*e preachers ofthe church until May 1, 1850, and since then Messrs, Davies and Hughes and B.ev. John Jones have had th'e joint charge of the church. Present number of 'communicants about fifty. The services are conducted ih the Welsh language, T'here have been. Within a, few years, tWo other Welsh churches in the city, one an off-shoot from the Welsh Con gregational Church, which eitected the house now occupied by the Jews, and the other from the Welsh Baptist Church, and held its meetings onthe corner of Broadway and Pearl Street, Happily, however, the difficulties in which these churches originated, have been healed, and upon their dissblution, most of their members returned to the old folds, and the two parent churches are progressing in harmony, St. Patrick's Catholic Church. — This church was organ ized on St, Patrick's day, March 17, 1850, and is located in West Utica. A temporary church edifice was erected on Columbia, west of Varick Street, for the accommodation of the congregation roi til their ^new house shall be completed. The congregation is composed mainly of natives of Ireland. An elegant church is in course of erection, upon the corner of Columbia and Huntington Streets. Its material is brick above the basement, its style of architecture Gothic, and is to cover an area 64 by 120 feet, with a tower and spire ISO feet in heighth. The Rev. Patrick Carraher is pastor, and it is mainly through his exertions that a congregation has been collected; and the funds secured for the erection of the church. The ceremony of laying the corner-stone of this church took plaee on the evening of July 30, 1851, the Rt. Rev. Dr. McClosky officiating.. A box was deposited containing a Variety of coins, the names of the executive of the state and XXIII.J UTICA. 593 eity, bishop of the diocese, pastor of the church, and a variety of newspapers, etc. New York State Lunatic Asylum. — This institution al though located partly in Whitestown and partly in New Hartford, is more generally considered in connection with the city of Utica, and the account given seems therefore more appropriately placed in this chapter. In 1830, acting Governor Throop, in his annual message, called the attention of the Legislature to the number, condi tion and wants of the insane poor in this State, and sugges ted the establishment of an asylum for their " gratuitous care .and recovery," He states that by the census of 1825, there were then 819 insane persons in the State, of whom 263 pos sessed means for their own support, 280 were in jail or sup ported by charity, and 348 insane paupers were at large, " a terror to others, and suffering in addition to mental derange ment, all the privations attending penury and want," In the Assembly this subject was referred to a select committee, whojm the 17th of April reported " that the general expedi ency, and indeed necessity of another Asylum seem manifest from a bare examination of the facts," This brought the subject before the public, and another committee was ap pointed, of which Hon, A, C, Paige was chairman, and by whom extensive examinations with reference to the insane and lunatic asylums were made, and an elaborate report presented in March, 1831, In each of the years 1 832-3-4-5, committees were appointed, who reported in favor of Legis lative action, upon the subject, but no laws were then enact ed. In 1834, Gov, Marcy in his message niade a powerful 38 594 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. appeal to the Legislature upon the same subject. In 1836, the Oneida County Medical Society, by its delegate Dr. J. McCall, brought the subject before the State Society, by whom a memorial was sent to the Legislature ; and also made a di rect communication tothe Legislature by a petition drawn up by Dr. C, B, Coventry, March 30, 1836, an act was passed for the e-stablishment of the New York State Lunatic Asylum-, which authorized the appointment of three commissioners to purchase a site at an expense not exceeding $ 10,000, and also for the appoint ment of three commissioners to contract for the erection of the Asylum, and appropriated $50,000, for that purpose, Messrs. N. Dayton, C, McV'ean and R, Withers, the com missioners appointed by the government to procure a site, re ported to the Legislature, in February, 1838, that they had not been able to select and secure one, although they had bar gained for the necessary grounds at Watervliet, but which the owner had finally refused to sell upon the terms agreed upon. In the summer of 1837, the present site of the Asy lum was purchased, including, a farm of about 130 acres, for $1&,300, of which thestate paid $10,000, and citizens of Utica $6,300. In the latter part of the same summer Capt William Clarke of Utica, Francis E. Spinner of Herkimer and Elam Lynds were appointed commissioners to superin tend the erection of the necessary buildings. After visiting various institutions ofthe kind, the plans drawn by Captain Clarke, after being submitted to most of the state officers and the legislative committee, were adopted, the four main buildings commenced, and at the close of 1838, $46,881,79 of the appropriation expended. That plan " consisted of four buildings, the size of the present front building, each 550 feet long, to be located st right angles, facing outward, and to be coanected at the angles by verandahs of open lattice xxul] UTICA. 595 work, the whole inclosing, an octagon^ ar^a, of above thirteen acres, not including above two and a half acres covered bj the buUdings. The estimated expense ifhoUtof brick, was $431,636j hut no estimate of the expense of hammered stone of which the main, building was finaUy constructed was then given." In M-ay, 1839, $75,000, were appropriated towarda completing -' the main buUding occupying the principal firont, and for protecting the foundations then laid of the other buU dings-, and in 1840, $75,000j and in 1841, $75,000, were ap propriated by the Legislature for completing the main edifice, making $285,000, including the $.10,000 for purchase of site. On the 6th of January, 1842, ths commissioners repoi^d that nothing remained to be done to put the institution in op eration, but the laws necessary for its organization, and an appropriation for furnishing the buUding. During the erec tion of the buUding, Messrs. Lynds and Spinner had been removed, and Messrs. W. H. Shearman and Anson Dart ap pointed, and subsequently Messrs. Clarke and Dart were re placed by Messrs. James Piatt and Theodore S. Faxton. In May, 1841, Messrs. Da'vid RusseU, W. H. Shearman. N. Devereux, Dr. C. B. Coventry and T. S. Faxton, were hy act of Legislature, appointed trustees of the Asylum, and were required to report a system for the government, disci pline and management of the institution, and regulations for admission of patients. They, by a eommittee, visited four teen of the twenty simUar institutions in the 'United States, and January 12, 1842, reported a system which was mainly adopted. April 7, 1842, an act to organize the Asylnm.was passed, and by which Nicholas Devereux, Jacob Sutheriand, Charies A. Mann, Alfred Munson, Charles B. Coventry, Abra:iam V. WUliams, Thomas H. Hubbard, T. Romeyn Beck and David Buel were appointed managers. By this act $^5,000, wera granted for purohaging, furniture, fixtures, 596 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY, [CHAP. stock, books, food, fuel, medicines and enclosing and impro ving the grounds — audin 1843, $16,000 were appropriated for a drain extending to the river, supplying the building with water and various improvements to the building, etc. The managers organized as a board in April, 1842, and on the 9th of September following, appointed Dr. Amariah Brigham, superintendent ; H. A, Buttolph, M, D., assistant physician; E. A, Wetmore, Esq,, treasurer; Cyrus Chat field, steward, and Mrs, Chatfield, matron. On the 16th of Jailuary, 1843, the asylum was opened for the reception of patients, and during the first year 276 were admitted. It was soon discovered that the building erected would soon be entirely inadequate for the wants ofthe insane poor ofthe state, and accordingly in 1844, the managers submitted to the Legislature a plan for enlarging the Asylum, advising the abandonment of the original plan of four buildings, and the erection instead of two wings of brick at right-angles with the main building, each 240 feet long and thirty-eight feet wide, at an estimated expense of $80,000. For this purpose $60,000, were granted by the legislature in 1844, besides $4,000 for the purchase of grounds adjoining and in front of the Asylum, making the entire farm and grounds 133 acres, and for additional furniture and fencing; and in 1836, $17,000 were appropriated for completing the wings, $15,000 for furniture, furnaces, fixtures, etc., $5,000 for bringing a supply of Water into the buildings, and $3,000 for various other purposes. The water is supplied at the rate of about thirty gallons per minute, is forced by pumps, propelled by water about half a mile and raised 95 feet into a reservoir in the attic of the rear building, from whence it is distributed to every part of the establishment. Since this institution went into operation it has fully an swered the expectations of the public, and earned for itself an XXIU,] UTICA. 597 honorable rank among institutions of the k;ind in the United States — and so long as it holds its present position it wiU be an object of special interest to all who feel a kind wish or possess the least sympathy for the most unfortunate of their feUows. From her liberal benefactions, although none too much so, when the number and claims of the insane within her limits are considered, the Empire State had a right to ex pect something worthy of her position in population, enter prise and wealth. The managers of the Asylum have been men of liberal and enlarged views, and their measures and policy have been humane, energetic and discreet. The former and present superintendent, upon whom the management, care and responsibility of this great institution mainly rest, have been men eminent in their profession, and their annual reports show the great success which has resulted from their wisdom and skiU. On the Sth of September, 1849, Dr, Brigham was removed by death, and on the third day of November following, Dr, Nathan D, Benedict, of Blockley Hospital, Philadelphia, was appointed superintendent, and entered uponthe duties of the office on the 8th of December, Dr, George Cook, first assis tant physician, was the acting superintendent from the death of Dr. Brigham, until the arrival of Dr. Benedict, The managers in their next report to the Legislature, thus speak of Dr. Brigham : " He appUed himself to the task with un tiring and unyielding devotion. He performed labors, and surmounted difficulties of which the public knew but little, but which might weU have disheartened a less determined man," The annual report to the Legislature embodies the reports of the superintendent, treasurer, etc., and these contain a large amount of valuable and interesting general infotmation «nd staiistics relating to the institution and the insane. From 598 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. fCHAP. the report dated February 25th, 1851, the following statis tics are copied, but the limits of the author forbid his giving many of the interesting and curious details it contains : MALES, FEMALES; TOTAL, Patients remaining at close of last year, - - " " " Admitted during year. Total during year, Of this number there were discharg ed within the year, recovered, - 94 Much improved. ImprovedUnimproved, Died, Total, Remaining, 202 227 429 Ofthe 171 discharged cured, 124 had been insane less than one year, and twenty-one for one year, nine for two years, seven for three years, two for each four and five years, one for six years, and in five cases the period of insanity had not been ascertained. Of the fifty-one deaths, thirteen were from dysentery, twelve from chronic mania^ one by suicide, and twenty-five were from fifteen other forms of disease. The 816 patients were classified under fifteen forms of de-- ' rangement, besides eight cases of " feigned insanity," Of these 816 cases, 378 had been insane less than a year when admitted, 277 from one to five years, eighty-four from six to ten years, forty-four from eleven to twenty years, twenty-on» 226 223 449 185 182 367 411 405 816 94 77 171 4 4 8 26 23 49 51 57 108 34 17 51 209 178 387 xxm,] UTicA, 599' from twenty-one to sixty-five years, and in twelve cases the period was unknown. From January 16, 1843, to December 1, 1850, total number admitted, 2,743, Discharged, recovered. 1,188 " improved. 468 " unimproved. 338 Died, - - ' - 320 2,314 Remaining - - - - 429 When it is considered 'that all of this ¦number were laboring' under disease, frequently in its most complicated form, added to the difficulty of treating insane patients and of reaching mental maladies, the wonder is that So , small a proportion should have terminated fatally. Of the whole number 1,622 have been supported by counties or towns in this State, 1,121' by friends. From Oneida Coun'ty 287 have been admitted, of whom 154 have been a public charge, and 133 supported' by friends. The report shows that those Counties nearest' the Asylum send the largest number in proportion to their population, Madison has sent 102, Chenango 87, Jefferson 94, Herkimer 79, Erie 55, St; Lawrence 46, Dutchess 33, Delaware 21. Of the whole number 582 have been admitted' in winter, 693 in spring, 735 in summer, and 733 in autumn. As to age when admitted 9 were under 15 years, 300 from 15 to 20, 953 from 20 to 30, 706 from 30to-4'0;45i from 40' to 50, 213 from 50 to 60, 101 from 60 to 70, 7 from 70 to 80, and 3 over 80. By occupation 581 were farmers, 179 la borers; 71 merchants, 65 scholars, 47 joiners, 42'clerks, 16 clergymen, 24 lawyers, 20 physicians,- 19 teaoheTs, 36 shoe- mabers, 30 blaekshiiths, 4 seh'OOrboys,--1167 were women en->> ^0 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, fCHAP. gaged in " house work," 52 school girls, 35 talloresses, 32 in structresses, 28 milliners, 21 mantua mak,ers, 10 factory girls, and two each music teachers and seamstresses. The remain der are classified as belonging to 62 different occupations, with from one to eighteen individuals to each. Among the various " probable causes " of insanity, the following are se lected : III health, 448 cases ; religious anxiety, 205 ; loss of property, 97 ; puerperal, 115; intemperance, UO; disap pointment in love, 65 (39 males and 26 females !), Millefism, 43 ; perfectionism, Ucense question, Fourierism, preaching six teen days and nights, mesmerism, visiting, smoking, anti-rent ism, Rechabiteism, Mormonism, and study of phrenology each one, unknown 804, For the remainder, seventy-one causes of insanity are given, and from this it would seem that excess in any thing, will turn the brain and upset the mind. Of the insane, a considerable share possess a strong propensity to suicide. Of the 8 1 6 in the institution within the year, sixty -six ¦ (twenty-two males and forty-four females) were of this class. The constant and sleepless watchfulness, the anxiety, the labor and care with respect to these. Dr. Benedict in this report says : " form a burden whioh they alone know who bear it,- increased by the necessity of carrying at all times, amid sur rounding sadness, a cheerful countenance over a heavy heart." The following is copied from this report because it shows sin gular phenomena with respect to this most unfortunate class : '•¦ The successful attempt at self destruction, before reported" (included in the 51 deaths) " was made on the 12th of July, (.1850), by a female patient qf our most intelligent class. Her melancholy end became known to her companions "with whom she was a favorite, and on the foUowing day two other patients on the same hall were over-heard devising a plan fpr thpir own death. About this time the suicidal propensity prevailed extensively, and seemed to be epidemic. There xxm,] UTICA, 601 were admitted during the month of July, the- large humber of forty-four patients from different portions of the State, nineteen of whom were suicidal. . Several of these had at tempted suicide immediately previous to admission — one by suspension, which was discovered before ' life was entirely ex tinct,, to whom animation was with difficulty restored. An other by cutting her throat in a most shocking manner, and others by poison. Two patients who had long been in the house and never exhibited suicidal propensities attempted it during this month, though they had no knowledge of the vio lent death that had occurred in another portion of the buU ding. On the 13th of this month, ignorant of the occurren ces of the previous day, they attempted strangulation, and so persevering were they in subsequent attempts, that they could only be preserved by mechanical restraint. On the same day a female attendant took' an ounce of tincture of opium, ' because she liked it,' without however any apparent inten tion of self-destruction. She had been an active and faithful person, and still continues in the service of the institution, useful and trusted. On the 17th, a patient, beUeved to be entirely ignorant of all that had occurred previously, at tempted strangulation, and continued to repeat the attempt until restrained by mechanical means. On the 20th, a pa tient tried -to open a vein in her fleck, and on the 22d anoth er, who knew of the suicide, and was no doubt influenced by it, attempted her destruction. From the 14th of- Jnly, four teen attempts were made, by eight different persons, and twelve others in whom the propensity was strong, required constant observation. The suicidal epidemic. prevailed from the 12th to the end of July, after which time it gradually subsided, and left the minds of most of the patients. No suicidal attempt was made in August in any portion of the house," 602- ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [CHAP, The treasurer's report for the year shows receipts to $69,- ^53,08, Of this $36,607,52 was received from towns and' counties, $23,520,30 from- fri-ends of private patients, $9,272.^ 85 from the state, for officers' salaries, furniture and support' of insane convicts. The expenditures were $65,028,25, of which $22,687,99 was for. provisions and household stores, $10,644,51 for attendants, labor, etc., $4,637,74 officers' sala-' ries, $6,132,78 for furniture, $5i8'26,89 fuel and lights, Messrs, Devereux, Mann, Munson and Beck still remain in the board of managers, and Messrs, Sutherland (deceased), Coventry, -Williams, Hubbard and-Buelhave been succeeded by Messrs. WUliam B. Welles, Silas D. Childs, S. Newton Dexter, Joel A, Wing and Jaines S, Wadsworth, Mr. Chat field was succeeded as steward by John M. Sly, and he by Robert J. Norris, Esq., of Augusta, and the latter by Morti mer Rhodes, the present steward. The internal management of the institution is conducted in accordance with the suggestions of the most extended ex perience and the latest improvements and discoveries in sci ence and the treatment of mental diseases, as well as upon the principles of the broadest philanthiiopy and benevolence.' Within the recollection of multitudes now living, the insane were treated as the forsaken of A COUNTY. [t'HAP. Qct?:ei^&, is [i^ll of the. ,h|sipi;y of Esquiife Root, possess,ed ,J>y tho-anthOiT-: .:,„.' ' , ,. ,:¦ ; "bi^d at, Vernon, August 15, 1845,' WiUiam Koot, Estj., aged sev- eti,ty-8ight years-. ' , Tlie deceased iras no ordinarj^ man. Born in Great Earncgton, Maafe., he came into- the couuty-of; his last residence about fifty years algo, and was one of the earlicsit »»t,^er3 of the town of Vernon, En^ : '- " HaVrb, 179^, 12.midn)gfe. Y';^ear Father :— I am sprry to leave you^but regardthe aeparatipa , your departure with -iji)%,to jEngland would create betsir^ijp^y^elf and him who/has Ipngoccupied the strongest affeptiflps gfAnx h«%rt, a gteat affliction. Asa/aiAcr you haye my jore^will ever ha,ve it. AS,a /lasSa^il La Ndu'resl'e'has my^ Acari— nfust 'cbntrtoi it. ^*^e npt alarmsid,* ^Ere' 'breakfast pas,se3^;d-morr6w, I- shall be on toy •Way tb America — from which- placfe you shall hear from me. - r " Affectionsjjt^y, fai-AW^ll, ¦ -il '(! .:c'i 'I , "Celeste, " <; "^one to America I Marry La Nouresse J, Never! ,My carriage I ^ My pistols ! Ho. there, pe Nair ! , Quick, you . f'De Nair has gone, too, master, and broken the heart of hig poor, mother.]' _^.,,, ^ -J „^j^5 ' ' '' ;,, , " To the ship then — let us away — police." '' O, the ship has gone— been gone tWo hours ! " CHAPTER 11, . Four years -had elapsfed, A gentleman and lady were seen walking albng the beach of one of the sweetest-little lakes in the State of New York, called Oneida, A bbnvehient Ibg house,' not splendid like -a city mansion, but comfortable, stood a little distance from the shore. The forest around them Was echoing with the sound of the ''axe and the falling trees, Out upon the bosom of the lake danced the canoej as llie waves sped before the wind. Here and there iu'the dis tance around them^nlalnd, the smohe curled as it ar'b^b. and p&rted upon the air, showing' that they were not altbgether alone. Were they happy ?¦ Listen. - -; - -. Said, La Nouresse, as he fixed his soft expressive eyes ifpon Celeste : '¦'.-¦.¦' ;i .:. . . . Isu ;; ; _ .' i- ,.. 3BIK,} ; VBKOSa. 6K^ i "I^Qoi' j«at8 have now passed sirayanee «e 1^ onrhoiiie in Fi^ne^ tdl 4ne IVve^ are jou happy — da yoa -i^re& oot- adveatarel" -ihave bat one amswer fo^T^ and ae they say^ tlie Kiief langoaga of the lieart is esj^tessed in song, I will answer JOO." Then in » -foiee mdodioiiK and dktinet as tiie harp, site sang : " L^ fsAeis se«lc,'iii wealth or &mc. A ^piendid patt wiierewi to tread ; rd rather wear a loKiier DamSk tnth love'is eaehantmeat round it shed. Fame's but » G^t to gild the grave, '• AndirealUt can never cabu the breast; But love, a halciyon on li^'s wave, Baih power to aoothe iss stri^ to t^f" "^ And have joa no 'widi te esehange our rude dwel^ng and these- trOd seaiea, &r Ae^etj or letiienient of jour native " O ! notthe sraBes of oth^r lands, Thai^ brand wUle oer feet mij roam. Can e'er nnfie aie geual bands t3>at bott our hearts .to J ^5&gaSi'saBg Celeste in ibe SKoue sweet T(uo&-^%nt added-^ ''Stiiiraia baippsrhere^" as dbegentlj leaned her bead apon tiie Iniast of ber hnsband. La Nearest felt the blood itsh te Ids &ee^ as bSs WbSA -nbiiatedtotbe ma^e power of that love 'whi^ had trans planted tiie angdn: brabg firom tbe soil of her birth and ell- tare— samrahded by aU tiie tdvantage^ of wealth and ^ tHS^m,' nite a fint^n dim^ and npon a,'inlde(^iBS boO, isab- jeet to deprivation and many bard^^ :Aad vben be n- 668 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP fleeted that, in flying from home and a father's stern com mand, to escape the doom of a union with a nobleman, be cause she loved an untitled, unwealthy merchant, he was proud of his seclusion. That being was a treasure, which titles and wealth could not estimate. Once Celeste had written to her father. She had painted the scenes in which she moved, with all the poetry and ro mance of life. She represented her situation with that en thusiasm which it inspired in her own heart. She made her home in the " American wilderness," a transcript of Eden be fore the expulsion. To that letter an answer was sent full of bitter unforgive- ness. It was b, severe blow to the gentle heart of a daugh ter. But she reasoned correctly, that, as to the choice of her life's companion, if she had made that life a delight, the com plaints of her father, however well designed, were unreasona ble — filial love cannot ask the sacrifice of a life to the pleas ure of another's will. Life is our own — its happiness ot^r owu. CHAPTER III. Another four years had passed away. It was late at even ing. The gentle breath of spring, perfumed by the fragrant wild flowers, that adorned the luxuriant openings, and that crept to the very threshold of the happy cottage, was mo ving across the bosom of the lake and wildly murmuring in ripples along the shore, while the voice of the night bird was heard in echoes among the forest hills. Upon the floor ofthe cottage danced a bright-eyed little boy, whom his mother in her forgiving love had named La Fargo, after his unforgiving grandfather, and upon the grass plat in front of t^e dwelUng iu many gambols frolicked the dogs, who had not yet retired, and with all, it was a happy scene. tXV.] • VERONA. 669 A coach is seen far away down the road, leading from the Mohawk turnpike, and running for many miles upon the lake shore. Nearer it approaches, until near the house of La Nouresse it stopped, and the driver called out : " Can you direct us to the residence of a gentleman whose name is La Nouresse, any where in these parts ! " " I have the hopor to be that person," was the reply. In a moment the coach stood before the door, A gentle man alighted. He was apparently about fifty-five years of age, richly dressed and wealthy. The darkness obscured his face, and he was not recognized by the owner of the dwelling, who politely invited him to walk in, while himself directed in securing the beasts. A shriek from his wife soon called La Nouresse into this house again. On entering the door he saw the stranger prostrate upon the floor, and his wife in a swoon by his side. The man was dead ! He had discovered himself to his long absent daugh ter, and being overcome by the intenseness of his feelings, fell at her feet ; ' uttering the first and the last, the only words — "Daughter?" "forgive!" Deep was the affliction of that little family that night. Long and tenderly with tears sat Celeste by the cold form of her father. That sweet word " daughter," and the sweeter word "-forgive," were oft pronounced amid the disturbed slumbers of the night. The last tribute of respect had been paid to the departed father. Upon examining his papers, a will, prepared previ ously to iffs departure from France, was found duly attested, making Celeste the heir. of one million francs and all his es tates at Havre. Besides this, among his papers addressed to his daughter, which he had prepared previously to leaving, and, during hia 670 ANNALS OF ONEIDA ooniiTr.. [chap. voyage, to provide against sudden deatb, was a full expres sion of his entire approbation of the marriage of Celeste with La Nouresse, and an account of the great injury, done him by the nobleman who had- won his eonfider-ice, and through whose influence he had, by misguided ambition, been induced to attempt her compulsory union with .a villain, instead of being united to the worthy person of her heart's first choice. Five years more had passed. La Nouresse had dispoced of his property in Araerica, and was among the wealthiest, most respected merchants in Havre. One of hi.s daughters is the happy wife of an American merchant — a son of a New England mechanic, who resides in New York. That merchant with his lady, visited the shores ofthe beautiful lake this summer. Such are life's changes and romances. In some respects, the truth was stranger than the fiction. After De Wardenou and '• Celeste " had interelianged vows of eternal constancy, tho girl's friends to prevent their mar riage, confined her in a convent. But love not only laughed at the locksmith, but triumphed over the vigUance of the lady superior, she escaped, they were married, and embarked for America, Ho had a handsome fortune at command, which he invested in merchandize and brought to New York. Here misfortune overtook him, and he nparly lost his all when they emigrated to the vicinity of the Oneida Lake. Even here trouble sought them out. A lovely IMtle child, their first born, sickened and died, in 1797. No cofiiu could be procured. Its little cradle -was substituted. A fewyears after, when the Western Inland Look Navigation Company were about erecting a structure at the Oak Orchard, in ^Wfh'i • VKaoNA. . 67t' ^>^Vg-^r &er,foan^^n they di^nt^red a cradle con taining the skeleton of a ehild. This, no donht, was U^e ramaws of the duld of Pe Wardenou, the first. deceased from a natural caose, within the limits of Yerona. The next death in the town was that of Abigail Newland, dMghter of <^osiah JSTewland, but the time of her decease has not been asoertsdned. . The Koyal Block House was built on a slight elevation on the^wth side^ and near where Wood Greek enters the Onei da Lsti:e. The ditph, about ten feet deep, enclosed an area some le^ht rods square. Since Mr. Jackson settled at this- plape in 1796, the creek has been constantly encroaching upon its. site, so that at this time but a small portion of the southern ditch remains, the bed of the creek occupying al most the entire gronnd of the fortification. In a very feic years, every vestigt^wiU have been sw^pt away. Tradition saj^ that on the retreat of St. L^er from Fort Stanwix, a party from the fort had a skirmish at this place with the re- trea^g fbe,.and that a niunber were kiUed and buried on the bank of the creek, and that the creek in-changung its channel exposed their -bones to view. The soathem' part of this town wasa part of what was termed at the ^me of ite sale .in August, 1797, " the late On«ida Reservation." , A large proportion was bid off by those-vtho intended to become actOal settlers. Aecordin^y in the spring of 1798, this section of the town was settled by scores of hardy indnstrions pioneers. Many of them had one or two. years previously moved into the older settled towns in the coonty, and awaited tiie sale of the Reservation. Among these eadly settlers were Rnssell Brooks^ Martin Langdon, Noab Langdon, Samael Avery, Joseph Samea, JohffBosworth, Oliifei: Pomeroy, Itiiamar Bay, JBleasar £1- Ca^-J^iaher EXGa, Jedediah Phelps, Steph^t Benedict, Jabes 672 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COTOJTT. [CHAP. Loomis, Jonathan Warren, John Tilden, John R. Todd, Levi Skinner, Lieut. BUlington, Peter Wheelan, Robert Robbins, Rodman Clark, Caleb Clark, Solomon Bishop and Moses Brown. These are now all dead, but many of them left children, who yet occupy the homesteads of their fathers. Of those now living, and yet residing' in the town, are, Simeon Parsons, Joseph Couch, Benjamin Blackman, Achus Rathbun, Artemas Brewer, Nahum Joslin, Elias Cagwin, Daniel B. Cagwin, Dr. Alexander Whaley ; Joseph Grant now resides in Oswego, and Gideon Todd in Vernon. In his youth the author knew all of the above-named early set tlers, and with many of them was well acquainted. If any names have been omitted it has not been intentional, but from the want of recollection. Some of those named came a little later than the year 1798, but they 'were all very early settlers. It is believed that they all or nearly all emigrated from Massachusetts and Connecticut, quite a number from Berkshire, Massachusetts. At this place the author presumes that his readers will justify him in again departing from his rule, to speak but in genera] terms of the living. The widow Elizabeth Whaley Matteson was born May 23, 1751, and resides in this town. Consequently she entered upon her hundredth year the 23d of May, 1850, and retains her faculties in a good degree- She is a woman of great piety, and at the age of ninety-five used to walk to and from church frequently in pleasant weath er, a distance of two miles. She has now partially lost the use of her limbs. The author called upon her in September, 1849, and found her knittingj^ and he listened to a recital of some of the eventful scenes of her life. She resided at Montville, nine miles from New London, when the infamous Benedict Arnold took and burned the place, and her husband' ahd a brother bel9nged to the garrison. The brother was xxv.] VERONA. 673 severely wounded, while her husband escaped unhurt. From where she was, she could plainly see the flashes of the guns on the shipping. To use her own comparison, " she had seen boys for amusement throw grains of powder upon live coals and their flashing quickly one after the other resembled the flashes of the gate," The author remarked to her, that in her lifetime she had doubtless experienced many trials, but that she was now in the retention of her faculties, enjoying a good old age, surronnded with many comforts, when she al most interrupted him, with the exclamation of the Psalmist, " Goodness and mercy have followed me all the days of my life,"* The first framed house built in Ihe town Was buUt by Rol> e^rt Robbins. By an act ofthe Legislature passed February 17th, 1802, the town of Verona was formed ftom the town of Westmore land, the first town meeting to be held kt the house of Martin Langdon. This house stood aboHit half a mile west of the ground now occupied by Verona Village, and on the rise of gtound a short distance east of what is known as the Langdon school house. When the town was organized, it contained but 102 families, and 439 inhabitants. The first town meet ing was held March 2d, 1802, Jedediah Phelps, Esq,, was chosen supervisor, and Eleasar EUis, town clerk. Esquire Phelps was elected to the office of supervisor for five succes sive years. Stephen Benedict, Esq, succeeded him, and was chosen for thirteen successive years. Esquire Benedict was succeeded by Joseph Grant, Esq,, who held the office for one year, and was succeeded by Esquire Benedict for one year, * Since penning the above she has departed t6 her rest. She had previously expressed the wish to her former pastor, Mr. Brainardi not to pray that she might live longer, as she wa.s ready when her M-aster called. She died July 27th, 1850. 43 674 ANNALS OF ONEUJA COIINTY. [cBAP- T^-Plxt two years.>J-adgeL®t%ftiSifjil6ndstucc.e,ede4.in beepr in^Mm in the#seemdaB;t, and thgitwo fijliftwing ygpjfs^Estpire, !^nedtoi'8*#i6n!te>were , supQessful; .sBhus eveiii^abalanoed 'wexe, these twQ.'popular men qf tthe. d'emocEatie. pa^tyj^whiA, wasjpre4njBinant-in Yeronai,.; .,,: , v , .j ¦.,«! : .f»» i- nThgjfirstelection itt; town ^astheld April .iOth, 10{^ . The demoeratio tigket ireceivedifeictyrflne votlg^ and the federal twentjB-eighti., Jilt shpuld he bQt.itejin. mind ithatthi* was u; . "--1j.™ i;.r ,: -'j Two men were killed in the north part of this town at the. raising, df a ^padl'.barn. A portion of-the hWAJiiug was rais ed, and left in an insecure condition. This was obs^ijffitd and theiwarning given, bnt it was unjheededj and soon ajhegt fe.ll kiUing one (instantly, and so wounding Jhg 9;feejF that he lived but a few da^.a ift giieat disfiregs, t Their.,;names-pid^ the date. have not jibeg-ibl^ned, but: the event; is believed to have oc; ejirredtpreviau^y to 1805. i;_ , , s-jc. wt- -s - ¦••, InAagus^ , 1-805, the. tpphijisfey!er,}Of thfepogts virulent cba^Qteir,:,commenced its rav^ages in thjsjtewn^andin its pro- g^essa appealed:! highly contagious. tj Itit intToduotio.n was pjoyidential. Miss Elizabeth Day, daughster of Ithamar Dayj of this town,, had been Tcsiding-, some time with friejids in ,Litehfii5ldj; Herkimer County, and in that vicinity . therp had been esses jof.,tyfhijs- The dayiwSfe Jxed for her fetuni teeher paEents, and on ;the, morning .of whiohsihje felt s%htly iadispo|epi)g;, Anxious tOj get. home,i she stai|ted on hossSback, b.ut before one hajf q| (th^-jjourneyfWsfeaGcompl ished, almost violent fever was raging inwardly, while outwardly she was uSiprotected from the-scorching rays of an Ajigust;«an* Osi her'way, shecalled for a few minutes at a relative's.' but no importunities could induce her to. forego .r^aphing honie |hat XXV.] VERONA. 075 afternopn. She did so, but it was only to lie down on a sick bed never to rise. From her, the disease spread, and for, about a year was very prevalent. It was believed there were about 100 cases, and in its victims, it nearly or quite. decimated the whole population. No particular causes comld be assigned for the virulence of the disease, other than those cO'mmon to the settlement of all new countries. The cutting away of the timber and let ting in the rays ofthe sun, might possibly have increased the malaria of the wet lands, and most of the inhabitants were living in log houses, and although of recent date, the work of decay had rapidly commenced upon them. At this time there were very few inhabitants except in about one-third of, and in the south part of the town. Among the early victims of the disease was Capt, Oliver Pomeroy, an uncle ofthe author, who died October 9 th, 1805, aged thirty-one years. The disease was principally among the younger heads of families, and unmarried young people. Prom the first settlement the progress of improvement was most rapid. In passing through the town (as the author did frequently the first ten years after its settlement), the blows of the sturdy axeman greeted the ear on every side, and the sounds of the falling trees which came "Crackling, crashing, thundering down," were not few nor far between. Soon luxuriant fields of wheat^ corn and oats, were waving in the breeze, and in many the golden pumpkin, that luxury of the new settleiaent, dotted the fields far thicker than the blackened stumps. The north and north-westerly parts of the town were very thinly settled up to the completion of the middle section of the Erie Canal in 1820. This section of the town lying be tween the Canal and Wood Creek on the north, and the Oneida Lake on the west, is very level, with but barely fall 676 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. enough to the north and north-west to allow of its being drain ed. The soil is rich, much of it alluvial, and when it comes to be properly tilled and drained, will be excellent for meadow and pasturage, and in many sections good for grain. This part of the town was very heavily timbered with beech, ma ple, elm, oak, ash, hemlock and with some cedar and pine. The Erie Canal nearly divides the town into equal sections. That part lying southerly and easterly of it is not hilly, but is mostly undulating, rising in swells one above the other towards the south. Verona, as a farming town, has few equals in the county, particularly in the older settled parts, where her farmers admit of no superiors, in the neat and orderly arrangement of their farms, or in the quality and quantity of products. Villages. — Yerona Village is six miles south-westerly from Rome, on the road leading from Rome to Oneida Cas tle. This road runs near, in its whole distance, where once ran the trail of the Oneidas to Fort Stanwix, It is believed that Shubal Brooks felled tbe first tree at this place in the fall of 1797. Doct, Brundage was the first physician who came to the town, and he located in this vUlage, on the corner where now stands Munger's tavern. This place was for many years quite generally known as " Hand's Village," thus named from Capt, Ichabod Hand, who many years kept an excellent public house at this place. There are in the viUage two churches, Methodist and Presbyterian, a post-office, three physicians, two stores, two taverns, a tannery, with all the difierent mechanics usually found in a country village. Durheimville. — This village is located on the west line of xxv.] VEnoNA. 677 the town on the Erie Canal and on the east side of the Onei da Creek. It was named from Eber Durham, who removed from ManUus, Onondaga County, to this plaee in 1826. When he arrived there were four log houses in the bounds of the present viUage. By his energy, activity and enterprise, soon a flourishing viUage sprung up. One of the important ingredients in this rapid growth was the surplus water, here let off from the canal in large quantities, which Mr. Durham leased and extensively appUed to hydraulic purposes. This source of prosperity is now dried up, as the canal officers have found by experience that the rents iUy paid for the damage to navigation, in times of low water, caused by the lessees drawing too closely to turn their machinery. These remarks are not intended for particular application to this place, hut as generaL The water now flows over a waste weir into the channel of the Oneida Creek, and is of no use whatever. The enterprising inhabitants have, however, en deavored by the use of steam to make up the loss of water power. There are now in the place a steam grist and flouring miU, and a steam saw-mill, besides two saw-mUls carried by water from the Oneida Greek. Sanford's tannery is doing an ex tensive business, he having in the year 1S49, tanned thirty thousand sides of sole leather, averaging sixteen pounds each- He tans for a commission of five cents per pound. The glass fiictory in this viUage Ls doing a good business. Itis owned by three brothers, the Messrs. Fox. It is kept in blast from eight to ten months in the year, and makes about sixteen hundred boxes oi window glass, of fifty feet each, per month, averaging at wholesale three doUars per box. A continuous plank road extends from this plaice, via Oneida Depot, Oneida Castle and Vernon to Utica. An iron foundry in the viUage, principaUy employed in the 678 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTT. [CHAP. manufacture of stoves, does a very fair business. There are two houses for public worship. Baptist and Methodist, two physicians, two dry-goods stores, two taverns, nine grocery and provision stores, tbree ware-houses, with various me chanics, etc., etc, with a population of five to six hundred in habitants. In 1816, Calvin W. Baker was married at this place. It was the first wedding of a white couple solemnized between the Oneida Castle and Oneida Lake, Four miles easterly from DurhamvUle is the Dunbarton Glass Factory, a flourishing establishment, where a large amount of superior glass is manufactured annually. One mile east, is Higginsville, a small village, at the junc tion of the Erie and Oneida Lake Canals. The Oneida Lake Canal was originally owned and constructed by a company, but has been purchased, and is now owned by the State. This canal running in a north-westerly course divides the north section ofthe town into two nearly equal parts. New London. — This village contains about 100 dwellings and between 5 and 600 inhabitants, Ambrose Jones who first settled at this point on the Erie Canal in 1824, is still living in the town of Vienna, In the place are a dry-goods store, a number of grocery and provision stores, two public houses, and the usual varie ty of mechanic shops. Since the construction of the Erie Canal, the principal business of the place has been the ship ment of lumber to the eastern markets. Much of the lumber is drawn to this place by teams during the winter, and upon the opening of the canal is sent on boats to its various plaees of destination. About 4,000.00& feet were shipped here during the year 1849. Boat building is also extensively carried on at this place. XXV.] VERONA. 679 Some years when the demand has warranted -it, as many as fifty boats, of the various kinds used for freight, have been built in a year. About eighty canal boats are owned by the inhabitants of the village. James I. Carley keeps a large storage and forwarding house, and from his long experience, and an extensive ac quaintance, almost monopolises the business of the place in that line- Ratlihunville. — At this place Achus Rathbun, a member of the society of Friends first settled. His son, Solomon Rath bun, is now the business man of the place, and deserves great credit for his perseverance in continuing and increasing his business, after having his establishment twice destroyed by fire. He has a large flouring mill, woolen factory and store. Rathbunville is the name of the post-office. Tilden HUl is the name of a locality in the south-east part of the town, although it does not aspire to the dignity of a village. Its inhabitants are farmers, and few as pleasant lo cations can be found in the county. The scenery is pictur esque and beautiful. Here the venerable Artemas Brewer, one of the pioneers of the town, resides in a substantial brick mansion. A man named Strallon, first bought and moved upon the hill. Merrit Clark moved to the hill in 1798, and opened a small store and commenced the manufacture of pot ash. This the author believes was the first store in Verona, but possibly is mistaken. Mr. Clark built a small framed dwelling so near the standing timber that in cutting it away a tree unluckily fell upon the house and broke in a portion of the roof The disaster was not repaired for years, the busi ness was discontinued, and the merchant left for parts un known, Mr. John Tilden from whom the hill took its name, 680 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTV. [CHAP, moved here in 1800. At the timo the following anecdote was told of him. After he had purchased but before he removed, he came up to view his farm, and satisfying himself, he went to Vernon VUlage to spend the night. Capt. Benjamin Pier son. then kept the tavern, now known as the stage house. Mr. TUden informed mine host that he wished to stop with him for the night but that he had spent his money, so that he had not a dollar, nor a two shilling piece, nor even a six penny piece left, but that the biU should eventually be paid. The Captain seeing no appearance of poverty on the part of his guest, and knowing he had purchased a farm in the vi cinity, readily told him he could stay. He had supper, lodg ing, breakfast and horse keeping. In the morning as about to leave he enquired the amount of his bUl. It was made out without any expectation of its^being paid at that time, but to the surprise of our landlord and his attendants, the wayfarer drew from his pocket a stocking weU filled with half doUars, and paid the bill, convincing the landlord that he was a man of truth, for in the capacious wallet, there was not a dollar, two shiUing, or six penny piece. Stacy's Basin is the name of a small viUage on the Eric Canal, between HigginsvUle and New London, and is about the size ofthe former place. Sconandoah. — This vUlage is located in the south-west cor ner of the town, on the creek of this name, and near where it empties into the Oneida Creek. The late Samud, S. Breese, formerly had a cotton factory at this place, but it has been discontinued for several years, Mr. Breese's mansion was beautifully located in a grove, and few more pieturesque eountry seats were seen in the county. The water power at xxv,] VERONA, 681 this place was first used by the celebrated Sconandoah, by the erection of a grist and saw-mill for the use of his tribe and the very few whites located at the time in the vicinity. The line between this town and Vernon passes through the vil lage, leaving however but a small portion of it in Vernon, GEOLOGy, The surface of this town, in common with many others in the county, bears evidence that at least large portions of it were'once covered with water. The appearances alsoandi- cate that the subsiding of the waters was not uniform and gradual, but that for a long period they remained stationary, and then by some mighty convulsion its outlets became low ered or changed, so that large sections were at once drained and eventually became dry land. The ridge known in tho town as the " Irish Ridge," as well as the sand banks on the road from Verona Village to Durhamvillo, give at least strong evidence in favor ofthe theory. Iron ore of the best quality found in this region, is very abundant in this town. It is of that kind termed rock ore, and has been extensively used in the Westmoreland, Taberg, and other furnaces. There is so mueh lime mingled with it, that in its use, it fluxes the furnace sufficiently, without the aid of those sub stances resorted to in the use of many other varieties of ore. This ore was discovered by the late Jedediah Phelps, Esq,, who had entered into a contract' with the owners of certain lots of land, that he should have a certain per cent of all mines and minerals for the discovery. Whether this was b»t a life intesrest, or whether it accrues tahis heirs, the author ia 682 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. uninformed. The ore bed is about half a mile north of Ver ona Village, and is extensive east and west, Jhe Syracuse and Utica rail road passes over it. An extensive quarry ofthe very best stone for building haS been opened in the south-west section of this town. The seams are so straight and perpendicular that, used in a ¦w^all it nearly equals in appearance the best cut stone. Some of the strata are of a yellowish cast, and slightly softened on the surface, but the inside is blue, very hard, and of great strength, and other strata are blue and clean upon the surface. The academy, Dr, Case's store, and the bank at Vernon Vil lage, and deacon Cobb's dwelling house at the Oneida Depot, are built of this stone. The rail road passing directly past the quarry, this stone has been conveyed by cars as far west as Syracuse, notwithstanding the contiguity of that city to the Onondaga limestone. It is also conveyed by teams to the surrounding towns to face the underpinnings! of the best houses. Such is the reputation of Tipple's stone quarry that it is becoming quite a source of profit to its owner, A ledge of granite rock crosses quite aseetion of this town. It commences north of the road leading from Verona Vil lage to Clark's settlem-ent, and crosses this road at a place known as the stone pound. Its course from its commence ment is south-easterly, leaving this town and passing into Westmoreland a little east of the Verona Spring. It con sists of blocks of various sizes, many of which are too heavy to be removed until broken up by drilling and blasting/ It is valuable for building purposes. The Verona Medicinal Spring rises in the bed of a small stream where it passes over the last mentioned ledge or quar ry. It was discovered by the early settlers in the neighbor hood, but about twenty years since was brought into more xxv.] VERONA. 683 general public notice ; since which the stream has been turn ed in another channel, and a bathing house erected over the spring, and a large and extensive boarding house built a few rods distant. Its patronage has not however equalled the investment, still the water has been gradually gaining in pub- lie favor. It is believed that if valetudinarians were only seeing health, instead ef fashionable amusements, this would rank as high as any in the state, for the cure of scrofula and cutaneous diseases. In 1850. a " Water Cure " establishment was added, which .has increased the boarders and visitors greatly beyond any former year. The mineral water is any thing but palatable, and the gay and dissipated seek more pleasant beverages and congenial locations. The following analysis of the water was made by Dr, Josi ah Noys, late Professor of Chemistry, in Hamilton College, Where his qualifications are known his correctness as a scien tific chemist is appreciated : " A gallon of water contains muriate of soda 720 grains, muriate of lime with a little mag nesia 68 grains, sulphate of lime 60 grains, I have not de tected any iodine, yet think the water contains it, from its beneficial effects in scrofulous complaints. The water ap pears to be nearly saturated with sulphurated hydrogen, but I have not attempted to ascertain the quantity. From what Ihave seen of its salutary operation I am confirmed in the high opinion I first formed of its medicinal properties, es pecially in scrofula, diseases of the skin, and many diseases of the stomach. The Harrowgate water, England, is very simi lar to the Verona Spring," r>.ELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. Thefirst sermon preached in the town, was by the Rev. 684 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Joseph Avery, of Tyringham, Berkshire County, Massachu setts, while upon a visit to his son, the late Samuel Avery, one ofthe first settlers. The first preacher employed by the people was a Mr. Masey, a candidate for the ministry, who preached a portion of the time in this, and the other portion in an adjoining town, for one season. The next was Stephen WUliams, from New Hampshire, who (unknown to this people) had been silenced for immor aUty. He was a man of good talents, and, until his charac ter became known, an acceptable and popular preacher. He however refused to administer the ordinances. When hisi standing became known, hewas dismissed by the people, when he returned to the association to which he had belonged, made a humble confession, and was restored to his office. The first church organization in town was August Sth, 1803. It was a Congregational ehurch formed by the Rev. Peter Fish and the Rev. Timothy Cooley, missionaries, the one a Congregationalist, the other a Presbyterian. It consis ted of twenty-three members, thirteen males and ten females. The ordinances were administered upon the occasion. In November, 1806, the first religious society was formed " to provide the privileges of the gospel for themselves and families." The articles of agreement were signed by sisty- five heads of families. A peculiar blessing seems to have followed those who made this early eff'ort, and rested on them selves and families. In many instances the truth of the proverb of the wise man was verified, " he. that watereth, shall be watered also himself." In the autumn of 1805, a revival commenced in that part of Westmoreland, now known as Lowell, and spread into the eastern part of Verona, although not into the western part, and about forty were added to this church. This was the fruit of the labors of a Methodist preacher, who preached statedly at XXV.J VERONA. 685 LoweU for a short time. On the 23d of September, 1807, the Rev. Israel Brainard was installed, and set over the church. He continued his labors with this people about thir ty years, and was then dismissed frona his charge. He yet lives and resides near the line between this town and Vernon, Although to some extent superannuated, he occasionally preaches to the destitute. In 1817, there was a general revival, and more than one himdred were added to this church, and a number to the Baptists. In February, 1818, the church placed itself amenable to the presbytery, retaining its congregational form and mode of government; In a new year's sermon pi^eached January 1st, 1825, by Mr. Brainard, he stated that 300 members had belonged to its communion. The church and society had previously built a convenient and good sized meeting house, some two miles east of Verona Village. In 1828, the church and so ciety divided, forming a second Congregational church and society, who built a new house for worship in the village. This state of things remained until June, 1837. During the continuance of the two societies, the Rev. Mr. Brainard preached to the first, and the Rev. Messrs, Luther Myrick, E, Spencer, and Lewis to the second. In June, 1837, the two churches and societies happily united, and only occupy the house for worship in the village. Since the union the Rev, Messrs, Benjamin Lockwood, Charles F. Butler, Washington Stickney, Henry Kendal and Nathan Bosworth have been the preachers, and the Rev. J. S. Bar- teau is the present pastor. The church at this time num bers about 144 members. Seventh-day Baptists. — In the year 1805, Daniel Wil-, 636 ANNALS OP ONKIDA COUNTY. [CHAP.^ liams, of this denomination, removed from Hopkinton, Rhodo Island, to the west part of the town of Rome, near what is- now called Rathbunville, in Verona, He had a family of seven sons and one daughter, two of the former and the lat' ter coming with him. Within the succeeding four years the remaining five sons had moved into the vicinity, a part in Rome and a part into Verona, In the same period of time, his brother, Joshua Williams, with a large family of sons and daughters, had removed from Hopkinton, and settled on an adjoining farm in Rome, These two families formed a colony of twenty-four persons, all of the name of Williams, Although not quite all professors of religion, they were all firm believers in the observance of the Sabbath as set forth in the decalogue and as practiced fromi whence they emigra ted. In 1809, these twenty-ft)ur persons formed themselves into a family association for reUgious improvement and Sab bath worship. From this germ thus formed has sprung the two seventh-day Baptist churches of Verona, In 1 820, they with others of the same belief, were constituted a church, numbering fifty-one communicants. In March, 1828, they organized a society under the style of " the first seventh-day Baptist society of Rome and Verona," numbering ninety members. The next year the society erected a house for public worship, although not large, it -was respectable and convenient. From the first this body had been supplied with but itinerant preaching. In 1837, Elder John L. Kenyon became their first settled pastor. At the commencement of Mr, Kenyon's pastorate, the church numbered 116 members. This year the second seventh-day Baptist church of Verona was organized at Durhamville, with forty-one members, sixteen of whom were* taken from the first church, the original body at this time taking the name of the first chureh of Verona, although some XXV.] VERON.!, 687 of its m-3mber3 yet reside in Rome, Soma of the descen dants of the original WUUams emigrants are prominent mem bers in the second church. About two years of faithful pastoral labor closed the earth ly career of Elder Kenyon. He died in 1839, greatly la mented. In 1841, Charles M. Lewis was ordained, and became pas tor of the first church. At the time of his ordination tbis ohurch numbered 141 members. In 1847, Elder Lewis re moved to Newport, l^hode Island, and Elder Christopher C, Chester, from that State, assumed the pastoral charge of this people, and still labors with them. In 1849, the church num bered eighty-two, their numbers having been reduced by re movals to Lewis County and the western states. The second church has thirty-one members. This year (1850) the sec ond church are erecting a ho'use for worship about one mile east of Durhamville, These two societies are all of the de nomination in the county, bat this is no evidence but that their belief is founded in truth, /l contrary position would place Mahomedanism higher than Christianity, and Paganism higher than either. As to the question whether the distinc- . tive portion of their belief is founded in truth or error, the au thor has nothing to say. That they are conscientious no one can doubt. Maintaining as they do a belief that it is a duty to observe a day of worship different from that observed by all those around them, and strictly adhering to their belief, are evidences of their integrity and stedfastness, and " ao worship they the God of their fathers." The denomination have four associations in the United States, The eastern, central, western and south-western, which meet annually. They have also a general conference which meets onee in three years. Their belief except as to the observance of the .638 ANNALS OF 0NEl!DA COUNTY. [CHAP. Sabbath is the same as that 'of the great t/ody of the Baptists. Methodists.-^the Methodists have three societies in the town. The society in Verona Village has stated preaching by a local preacher. They erected a neat and commodious house for Worship in 1830. I'his society sustains a respecta ble standing and has a good congregation. The society in New London in 1843, purchased the meet ing house previously occupied by Rev. Mr. BlSiinard, took it dKjwn and removed it to that village. In its re-erection its external appearance was much improved. They have a good congregation and have the only house for worship in the village. There is a society in Dui-hamville who have a small house for worship in that place, Baptitts: — There were formerly two Baptist churches in the town, but the second church in the vicinity of Higgins ville has lost its visibility, or became merged in the Baptiist church at Oneida Depot, formed about the commencement of the year 1847. Baptist Ohurch at DurJiamvillc. — In 1811, Eliphalet Frazee removed to this place, and was the first settler of the village. In 1812, he with Benjamin Newcomb, Dyer D. Ransom, Roswell Barker, and a few others, all Baptists, set Up and maintained religious worship Statedly until 1815, when they were organized into a church of twelve members. Mr. Newcomb preached to them the most of the time until 1819, when he was ordained and became the pastor of the chnrch. At the time of his ordination the church numbered thirty six members. The church Was highly prbsperous tinder his tninistratlon. XXV.] VERONA. 669 In 1833, they raised a meeting house, thirty-eight by forty- ¦eight feet, with a steeple, and in 1834 it was completed. The church this year numbered 150 members. Elder Newcomb Was very active and energetic in procuring the ways and means for the erection of this house, but the Great Head of the Church, for whom he had so zealously and successfully labored, in His wisdom, called him from bis labors ere he had onee broken the bread of life to his flock within its walls. Death closed his labors in the church militant in March, 1834, and the first sermon preached in the house was at his fune ral. Sixteen years have not effaced his memory, and he is yet spoken of with great feeling and affection. Dyer D. Ransom had, previously to the death of Elder Newcomb, removed to Peterboro, Madison County, where he was ordained to the ministry. After the death of Elder Newcomb, he returned to Durhamville, and beeame the pas tor of the church, and continued as such eight years. The church maintained its numbers during his pastorate. He was succeeded by Seymour W, Adams, from Vernon, a young, but popular preacher. He remained but one year, in which time he received ordination. He was succeeded by Elder R, Z, Williams, and he by William J. Loomis, Who preached to them sixteen months. He was succeeded by Elder Albert Gole one year. In February, 1850, the present pastor. Elder Harry White, came to preach to them. In September, 1850, this body re ported 120 members to the Oneida Association, and Rev. Messrs, Harry White, R. Z, Williams and B. C, Crandall as members of the church. Several members of this ehurch re^ siding in the vicinity of Oneida Depot, have become mem bers of the church at that place. In 1850, Elder D. D. Ran» 8om was reported as a member of the church at the Depot, 44 690 ANNALS- OF ONEIDA COtJNTY. [CHAP. CHAPTER XXVI Tbis town was organized in 1807, by the name of Orange ;^ in 1808, the name was changed to Bengal; and finally in 1816, to Vienna, It comprises townships No. 9 and 10 of Scriba's^ Patent, and is apart ofthe original grant to- Nicholas Roose velt of New York, The latter not complying with the terms- of salcj a large share of his pmrchase was re-sold to George Scriba, a native of Germany, but then a merchant in New York, and the remainder, including this town, was subse quently sold under proceedings in Chancery against Roose velt; and General Alexander Hamilton, John Lawrence and John B. Church, became the purchasers. The face of the land in the- western part ofthe town is com paratively level, in the north-east it rises into hills, while the southern portion slopes gradually to the Oneida Lake, The soil in the northern part is a light sandy loam, with oak openings; in the eastern part, on the banks of Fish and Wood Creeks, alluvion, which is annually inundated, and is not inferior to portions of the flats of the Mohawk, About" one-tenth of the whole town is of a light sandy soil, with clay at a short distance below the surface, and here both kinds of pine are indigenous. In the south part of the town is a con siderable section of yellow or pitch pine plains. Previous tei the use of coal in the propelling of steam vessels, large quan tities of pitch pine from these plains were eut into cord wood XXVI,] VIE.XNA, 691 and taken to Albany on the Erie Canal, and used for that purpose. The native forests of this town, except the plains. were composed of a large propostion of evergreens, hendock and white pine. Most of the pine, both yellow and white, ha» heen sawed into boards and plank, or manufactured into shin gles, for the use of the- surromiding country, or sent hy the Erie Canal to the eastern market. The hemlock isnow fol lowing the pine to the tide water, and the increasing demand in market, and the large quantities used in plank roadsjuow the popular hobby of the day, bid fair soon to strip the for ests of their gian* hemlocks. The " maple flats," in the north western part of the town, are- worthy of notice. They- com prise a strip of land two miles in length, and about one in breadth, mostly timbered with rock maple — Whence the name. In viewing this place one is reminded of a stony beach, and the resemblance is nearly perfect. It is supposed by many that this was formerly the shore of the lake, althoagh now at an elevation of a hundred feet above it ; centuries, however, must have elapsed since this was thus covered with water. The maples are of the largest sise, and a large- amount of. maple sugar is manufactured annually. It wiU be, in the opinion of many, well for the interests ofthe inhabitants when the last boat load of lumber for- market shaU have left the town. Just so long as lumber is depended upon as a staple, so long wiU agriculture, the only sure and great source of prosperity, be neglected. The soU' of this town is capable of great improvement, and when her &rmers look to it alone for all their income, give dieir farms tiieir undivided attention^ then -wUl they become doubly prosperous. In the vicinity of Vienna VUlage, and along the shore of the lake, it has the appearance of s3i older settled eountry. We here see signs of husbandry not easUy to be. mistaken The farms of Messrs. Parker. Matoon, BaUey, Wadhams. 692 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP- Rae, McLaughlin and Bushnell, among others, give sufficient evidence of the capability of the soil for producing. This can be made a good fruit growing town ; its proximity to the lake being a preventive against the early frosts which so often destroy the hopes of the pomologist in this northern latitude. Agriculture is beginning to receive the attention it demands, and not without bringing its reward. There is a good quarry of building stone in the east part of the town, near the place long known as Parker's tavern. This town is in part bounded by the east end of Oneida Lake. Large quantities of bog iron ore have been raised from the marshes on its shore, and used in different furnaces. Oneida Lake is a handsome sheet of water, twenty-one iniles in length, and from three to seven in breadth. It freezes over about the Ist of January, and the ice is sufficiently hard for crossing with teams until the month of April, at which time it generally breaks up and floats down the Oneida Riv er which is the outlet, or is piled in huge masses on the shore by the force of the wind. The view from the north side of the lake is truly beautiful, the hills of Madison and Ononda ga rising in the distance, with their waving fields of yellow grain and green forests, with the clean sheet of water inter vening, now " calm and motionless," now lashed into fury by the winds and storms. Since the improvement of the Onei da River a new impetus has been given to navigation on the lake. A number of steamboats have been built to ply up on its waters ; and it is not uncommon to see thirty or forty boats in a single tow, freighted with the products of the far west. The trade is being diverted frpm the old channel in no small degree ; being twenty^five miles nearer, it is a gain of nearly a day's time, over the Syracuse route, besides saving toll, etc. A stage leaves McConnellsviUe, on the arrival of the Rome and Watertown cars from the east, for the lake. It i,s XXVL] VIE.VNA. 693 but a short drive of four or five miles, most of the way over a plank road. By the last census this town contained 2,867 inhabitants, and 640 voters. There are in the town thirty-seven saw mills, two grist-mills and eight shingle-mills. The first settlers of the town were Timothy Halstead, Mr. Fisher, Mr. Jarvis, Peter Gibbons, Isaac Babcock, Alexan der Graves, Jonathan Graves, Eliakim Stoddard, Allen Nich ols and David Stone. Mr. Jarvis buUt the first framed barn in town. There is some difficulty in ascertaining the precise time when the first settlers moved into the town. Eliakim Stoddard moved to Camden in 1799 ; in 1803 he removed to A'ienna, where he resided five years, then returned to Cam den. He was the first supervisor of this town. As in all new settlements, the first inhabitants were trotibled with the wild tenants of the forest. Messrs. Halstead and Fisher, on a certain occasion, were hunting bears. They started one in a swamp on the lake shore, and after following it a short dis tance, and in passing a place made hollow by the roots of a tree partly turned over, Mr. Halstead broke through to his armpits, when out sprang the bear. They succeeded in kil ling it and left ; but had not proceeded more than eighty rods, when they found where the she bear and two small cubs resided, under the roots of another fallen tree. They effect ed a dislodgment of the old one, who shared the same fate as its mate, and secured the two little now orphan cubs. It was a very cold day, and to preserve the Uves of the little fel lows, Halstead placed one in his bosom and Fisher the other in his pocket. They were, however, so little inured to the cold, that before the hunters reached home, they were both dead. Our hunters however consoled themselves with the reflection, that they had four less of these troublesome neighbors than in the morning. 694 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP, After Mr. Eliakim Stoddard had removed to known as Lairdsville, and, soon after commenced keeping'ia public house, better known in the ear ly days as a log tavern, and Pelatiah Rawson also came this year. Thus far the settlement of the town, had been confined to Dean's Patent, but in this year Deacon John Blair settled on the farm lately purchased by Esquire Mills, the house on this farm being the first north of that of WiUiam Griffin, on the road to Hampton. ' It is beUeved; there was no other in habitant in town this year excepting those on ;Dea,n's Patent. 718 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. In 1789,the town commenced settling more rapidly. John and Nathaniel Townsend, brothers, arrived this year, and John settled on the farm now owned -by hia son of the same name, and Nathaniel uptm thefacih of the late JuUUs Cur tiss. Benjamin Blackman also came the same year, and Cap tain John Vaughan, Josiah Stillman, and a number of others, came in this or the year following, and settled in that vicin ity. Nathan Loomis also settled on the farm now owned by Benjamin and Tyler Seymour. As the history of the farm thus early settled by Mr. Loomis is peculiar, it is given in this place, Mr. Loomis resided upon it for but a short pe riod, and sold it to Adonijah Strong. Mr. Strong cleared up much of the farm, and built a framed house and barn, and about 1797, sold out to Captain Peabody, grand-father of Abraham H. Halleck, Esq. The price is not precisely recol lected, but is believed to have been $2,300. Eighteen hun dred dollars were paid down, and a writing given by Peabody forfeiting the previous payment, and giving Strong the right to re-enter and disposses, if the balance was not paid by a specified day. The money being due, and Peabody absent at the east, it, from some casualty, was not forthcoming at the time, and Strong, taking the advantage given in the writing to the letter, re-entered and took the crops growing on the premises, except a very small quantity of wheat, which was harvested by Peabody in the night time. Peabody brought an action in a court of law, but the artfully drawn instrument precluded his recovery. He now made an agent of a son-in-law, who filed a bill in Chancery for the recovery of the payment. After years of delay in that almost inter minable, though now obsolete court, a decree was obtained ordering Strong to refund the f 1800 and interest. By this time, the expenses, costs, etc, incident to tho suits and the " law's delay," had drawn the whole from Strong, so that he XXVIU,] WESmORELAKD, 719 was now compelled to sellthefarm a second time, to raise the money to pay the decree. This done, Peabody's agent set about paying, up the expenditures he had made in and;aboiut the several suits, and when completed, he had not, a dollar left for his principal. This is. a striking illustration of the old fable, in which the title to an oyster was contested, when it was decided, that the officers of the court should have the meat, and each of the litigants one half the shell, - ' This year Joshua Green, with a family of sons and daugh ters, removed from New Marlborough, to Dean's Patent Ho settled and lived many years on the farm now owned by Luther Hunt, and his oldest son Israel, upon the farm now owned by Hector W, Roberts, Joseph Blackmer, sen,, and his son-in-law. Captain Amos Smith, from the same place, settled, this year upon the road, now the plank road, one and a quarter miles west of Lairds ville. John Morse came this year, and soon after '• took up" the lot, the farm of the late Janies J. Curtiss, It is believed, that the section of the town in which Hampton Village is located, was also settled in 1789 ,The late Daniel Seely was the first settler in this section. He took up, and resided a number of years on the farm which has since, and until re cently, been owned by Samuel Halleck, and on which the De Laney Institute is now situate, A Mr, Blodget is believed to have been the first settler in Hampton Village, Elijah Smith and Samuel Starr located in that place early. There is a deed on record in the county clerk'sioffice, executed in October, 1797, by George Washington and George Clinton, to said Smith and Starr, for 153 acres of land.. This deed included the present farm of Capt. Noadiah Judson, and extended as far east as the nprth and south road, forming the four corners in the centre of Hamptoa. There is also another, deed on record, executed by Washing- 7'20 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP," ton and Clinton, to John Baxter, of 259 J acres of land, dated September 2d, 1799, which was but a little more than three months previous to Gen, Washington's death. This deed included the farm of the late Jared Chittenden, Esq, The farm on which the late James Tompkins resided, now owned by Francis Watson, was held by a deed from Wash ington and Clinton, executed by Clinton as the attorney for Washington, Gen, Washington and George Clinton (the latter the first governor of this state, which office he held about twenty-one years, and died while vice-president) owned considerable tracts in Cox's Patent, Deeds from them are also found upon record given to Joseph Blodget for 358 acres, and Daniel Babcock, Asa Turner, Stephen Hutchin son, John Babcock and Ebenezer R. Fitch, for 152 acres, all which was held-in a horizontal position, and just as it -was discharged, Judson, not knowing the state of things, stepped before the -muzzle and reeeived the charge -in his groin, -The wound was a very, severe one, but the wad was extracted, and for several days he -was thought to be doing well. Suppuration taking place, and the main artery of the leg having been injured by the powder, it burst, and he bled so rapidly,-that hisf(ather,-who was immediately called from the barn near by, -did not arrive in the heuse until he had expired. The public being so wellsatisfied that the oc- onrrence was purely accidental, -although the result of care lessness on the part of all concerned, no -legal proceedings were had iu the matter, Orrin -L, Fenton, -aged twenty-five years, -who resided witk his father, Amariah Fenton, one mUe west of Lairdsville, ac- -cidentally shot himself, June 4th, 1843- He went out with XXVIII.] WESTMORELAND. 73 1 his rifle to shoot crows, and when about a quarter of a milo south of his father's house, in getting over a fence, his rifle went off, and the ball entering his head juSt back of the right ear, passed out about three inches above. Its course was so near the inner surface of the skull, that it cracked it from one orifice to the other. A variation of half an inch outwardly, and he would have been unharmed. He fell entirely uncon scious, and so remained about twetfty-stwo hours, when he ex pired. A Heroine. — Mr. Samuel "Bailey was an early settler about three miles and a half north of Hampton, on the road from that place to Rome. One day -when Mr. Bailey was absent, his wife heard a dismal squeal from one of their hogs, some sixty rods distant in the woods, by the side of the road towards Hampton. She immediately ran to ascertain the cause of the trouble, and found their porker in the clutches of a huge bear. Armed with nothing but a club, picked up for the oc casion, she beat off thcTsear from the swine. Bruin, however, retreated but a few feet, seeming Itfth to leave the repast upon which he had but just commenced, Mrs, J3ailey, undaunted, took a position between the two, the bear making various an gry demonstrations, by growling and showing his ivory. The woman, however, was determined to maintain her right of property in the mangled domestic -animal, at the hazard even iof her life. How long her tour of duty lasted she could not determine, as minutes seemed hours. The bear made no ef fort to attaek her, but seemed intent only upon regaining its prey and dinner, but the up-lifted club every where met him as he attempted it. Opportunely, a man, on horseback, made his appearance, and perceiving the dilemma of the woman, immediately gave the alarm to two carpenters who were at 732 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [CHAP, work for Mr. Bailey, a short distance from his house. The three soon reinforced our heroine, when the bear finding the odds so strongly against him, beat a hasty retreat into the forest, thus relieving the faithful sentinel, and leaving her mistress of the field. Few instances can be found of greater heroism than here displayed, and none but the woman fitted for the settlement of a new country, would have dared dispute for the prize with the most savage of all the denizens of the Ameriean forest. In thelatter part ofthe summer of 1796, a most virulent dysentery swept off many children and a few adults in the town. It was the most sesrere upon Itean's Patent, although at the time no local cause was suispected. The author well recollec,ts that in his neighborhood, two died in each of three famUies, so near the same time, that the six were buried in three coffins, and all within a few days, and he further recol lects of hearing his father state, after the disease had abated, " that fifteen had died within call of his house," and that in a sparse popi»lation, much more so than at present. This was the same year that the diseaiSeprevailed in Floyd, In 1760', General Amherst with a British army of 10,000- men, on his way to complete the conquest of Canada (Quebec having been taken the preceding year), marched through Oneida County, on his way to Oswego. From old Fort Schuyler he kept across the eountry to Oneida Castle, His route was through what is now the south-west part of West moreland, parallel with, and about half a mile south of the present plank road. In a piece of wood-land, south of the author's residence, this oldmUitary road can still be distinct ly traced, for the distance of about sixty lods. When the land was first cleared upon this road, remains of cause-ways- xxvm,] WESTMORELAND. 733 made by the pioneers ofthe army, for the passage of baggage wagons and artillery, were discovered, and in other places the ruts made by the wheels were plainly to be seen. What was singular, when the land 'over which this road ran was first cleared of its timber, "Canada thistles immediate ly made their appearance in a mamber of places, and these were the only ones known in the vicinity, -for the first twenty years after the settlement of the town, Qiiere : had their seed lain upon the -surface of the ground for thirty years, and then, when the timber was cleared away, and they were reach ed by the rays of the sun, were they capable of germinating ? The following is a list of twenty persons who moved into town within the first ive years of its settlement, with the ages of eighteen at the time of their decease, and of two yet living. Their names are inserted in the order, or nearly so, bf their arrival. Notwithstanding the hardships they endur ed, it is remarkable thait such a number could be selected from so small a popalatioB, whose ages averaged over eighty- five years. James Dean, died in the 76th year of his age. Jonathan Dean, " 81st 11 Eunice, his wife, " 83d ¦ ii SUas Phelps, •' 87th a Lucy his wife, " 97th a Nehemiah Jones, " 79th ii Anna his Wife, " 82d il Mary, relict of Ephraim Blackmer, " 86th ii Joseph Jones, " 79th U Joseph Blackmer, " 81st ii John Townsend, " 8^d il Benj. Blackman, (yet living) 90th 734* ANNALS OF ONEIDA COtfNTY. [cHAP, Amos Smith, died in the 84th year- of his age, John Vaughan, " 88th " Benjamin Waters, " 101st « Stephen Brigham, " 96th " Alexander Parkman " 82d " Amos Dodge, (yet living) 93d " Peleg Havens, died in, the 87th " David Hawkins, " 82d Ihe ffrst death in this town was that of Oren Jones, an in fant, a few months old, son of Nehemiah Jones, and brother ofthe author, who died March 29th, 1788, At the time of writing the notices of Kirkland, and of the death by drown ing of Miss Tuttle, it was supposed that hers- was the first death pf a resident within the county, but the precise time cannot be ascertained, nearer than that it was in the same spring, and probably later than that of this infant- The wri ter's mother, has often said in his hearing, " that leaving her- friends in New England, and enduring all the privations of the new settlement, never caused her a tear, until after the death of her babe, and then the reflection that it must be buried withput a coffin, as boards could not be procured near er than the German Flats (and- from the breaking up of winter, the roads and streams were nea.rly or quite impassa ble), caused- her to weep-" But her trouble, on this account, was of short duration, for. Esquire Ephraim Blackmer soon put her mind at ease, by telliiig her, that he. had the sleigh box in which they removed into the country, and which he would use for the purpose, and from it he made a very decent coffin. The first death of an adult in town was that of Pelatiah Rawson, father of the late Pelatiah Rawson, a graduate of Hamilton CoUege, and a teacher in seminaries at Whitesboro, Rome and Clinton. The elder Mr. Rawson resided about XXVin.] WESTMORELAND. 735 half a mUe south-east from the Hecla Works, and died very suddenly in the summer of 1789. The first marriage in the town was that of Mr. Samuel Hubbard of CUnton; and Miss Mary Blair, eldest daughter of Deacon John Blair, already named. It was solemnized March 23d, 1790, by Rev, John Sargeant, the Indian Mis sionary, in the rude log cabin of the settler, which stood near the- first framed house north of William Griffin's, on the Hampton road. It can not now be • ascertained thai-there were any other marriages in town previously to the settle ment of Mr. Bradley, By his entries, on the church book, it appears that October 17th, 1793, he married Mather Bos worth and Bathsheba Deming ; February 24th, 1794, Daniel Williams and Lovina Hovey ; May 8th, 1794, Peter Pratt and Dblly Smith ; Angust 17th, 1794, Samuel' Cornwell and Hannah Finney; November 12th, 1794, Asahel Porter and Abigail Smith, These were probably all the marriages in town within the flrst eight years after its settlement The first merchant in Westmoreland was Abraham Van Eps. who, as will be seen by his biograph jt.in the history of Vernon, here very early established himself in business. It has Been stated as a fact, that, although a considerable number of merchants and mercantile fi*ms commenced'business in this town within the forty years after its setdement, all, with the exception of Mr- Van Eps, faillfed. Lest this should go to the discredit of the town, the writcFgives the reasons, as related by a citizen of an adjoining town, who had attentively observed the business operations of those merchants a considerable number of years. It should be borne in mind, that, in those days, almost-all business was conducted upon credit system. as the merchant purchased upon credit in New York, and sold his goods upon a year's credit, the pay-day arriving in the spring or fall. The individual referred to stated. '¦ that- ¦7S'6 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [ClIAP, the Westmoreland merchants had been in the habit of selling their goods at such high prices, that they drove the indepen dent farmers to Utica and other places where they could pur chase much cheaper, retaining but the Very poorest class of customers, a considerable proportion of whom eventually failed to pay, which in the end hrcke down the merchant" For the last quarter of a century, a new class of merchants have secured a good share of the business of their townsmen, and have well sustained themselves. RfiLlGiefUS SOCIETIES. There are nine houses of public worship in this toWn, viz , three for Methodists, three for Baptists, two for Congrega tionalists and one Friends' meeting house, Twp of these houses, that of the Baptists in Lairdsville and that of the Congregationalists in Lowell, are at present unoccupied. The first religious society formed in town, the " First Con gregational Church in Westmoreland," was constituted Sep tember 30, 1792, bythe Rev, William Bradford, he acting moderator of the meeting. At its formation, it included fif teen members, eight males and seven females, and Nehemiah Jones was the first clerk. On the 14th of May, 1793, the church gave Mr, Joel Bradley, a native of -Hampden, near New Haven, Connecticut, a call to become their pastor, and he was ordained, and settled July 16th of the same year. Upon the occasion of the ordination, Rev, Ammi R. Robbins preached the ordination sermon. Rev, Samuel Kirkland gave the charge, and the Rev, Dan Bradley gave the right hand of fellowship. The first deacons, Thomas Halbert, sen,, and Nathaniel xxvm.] WESTMORELAND. 737 Townsend were appointed October 10th, 1793. Deacon Halbert, sen., held the office until November 1st, 1822, when, as a peculiar coincidence, his son; Thomas Halbert, was chosen in his place, and he held the office at the time of his death in the summer of 1851 — an office which was filled by those of the same name for more than fifty-seven years. The late Deacon Halbert, at his decease, and his wife, were the oldest members of the church, having joined June 6, 1800, Mr. Bradley continued his pastoral labors until April 7th, 1800, when he was dismissed by the advice of a councU, convened for the occasion. This was very much to the grief of the church, by whom he was greatly beloved and esteemed. The causes which led to his dismission were a division in the society, and the erection of two meeting houses in 1798^ one, their present house at Hampton, the other upon " South Street." Heart-burnings and bickerings continued between the north and the south, and Mr, Bradley could no longer be useful. This state of things continued until 18,03, when the two portions united, and agreed to occupy the house at Hampton as their place of worship, and the south sold their house tt^the Methodists, Mr, Bradley was afterwards settled as pastor at Ballston Springs, where he continued his labors for a few years, when his health having failed, he was obliged to discon tinue preaching. He returned to Westmoreland, and united with his old church again as a private member, but, in a short time, he removed to Clinton, without, however; changing his church relationship. In October, 1822, his health ha'ving partially recovered, and having received an invitation to settle at OrviUe, now DeWitt, Onondaga County, he was dismissed to that ehurch, and was subsequently installed over the .church at;that place, ¦ He died August 3d, 1824, and his funeral was attended just 47 7)38 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. a year from the' daydf his installation. The Rev, Hezekiah Woodruff of Manlius, preached both the installation and fu neral sermons. His death was very sudden, as his disease, the- typhus fever, did not assume an alarming form until within three hours of his decease, when it arrived at its crisis. and) he sank in that length of time into the arms of death. He left on his table an unfinished sermon, from the text, " Why stand ye here aU the day idle.'?i He was most emphat icaUy a good man. We have penned the foregoing, with the most hallowed feeling of veneration for him who preached to usthe'first sermon, and was our first pastor. From 1800: to- 1804, the church was 'without a pastor- A Mr, May preached to them for a short time, and the Rev. Robert Porter, preceptor' of Hamilton Oneida Academy, sup plied them about ayear, but for a considerable portion of the time they were without stated preaching. In Aprilj 1804, they gave Mr, James Eells a call to be come their pastor, whioh was accepted, and he was ordained July 1 1th- of the same year- The council; which assisted in his ordination, were the Rev, Messrs. Steele, Kirkland, Nor ton, Spencer, Johnson, Woodward and Knapp. June 10th, 1821, the church paid out of their treasury twenty dollars for foreign missions, which was their first con tribution to that object, Mr- Eells was dismissed from his charge February 10th, 1825. He had- been-a successful pastor and preacher, and inring his-ministration, of more thantwenty years, the church had been largely increased, but as the records of the church for twelve years of the- term are lost, the extent cannot be ascer tained* After the dismissal of M-r, EellSj he removed to Ohio, where heresided-arnumber of years. He is nowsuperannuatedand resides' in Auburn in this state; xxvm,] WESTMORELAND, 73& The Rev. Abijah Crane was installed soon after Mr, Eells was dismissed, and continued as pastor untU June 17, 1832^ when he was dismissed, Edward Faiichild was installed July 3^ 1833, and with drew February 26th, 1836. John IngersoU preaehed as stated supply from March, 1836, to March, 1838. Rev. Nathaniel Hurd became the stated supply March, 1838, and left March, 1841. The present pastor, the Rev. Franklin A. Spencer, com menced his labors with this people AprU 1st, 1841. Hewas instaUed in September, 1850. This was constituted a Congregational churoh, in 1819, it adopted what was then known as the " accommodating plan,'' a plan partly Presbyterian and partly Congregational, In November, 1821, that plan was abandoned, and the plan of the 6neida Presbytery adopted. The church has more re cently discontinued its connection -with the Presbytery, and is now a purely independent Congregational body. At Uiis time (1851) it numbers about 200 members. An independent Congregational Church was formed about 1 820, in Lowell, and in 1824, the church and society erected a very respectable house for worship. The Rev, Mr, Holmea, an EngUsh clergyman, was their first pastor, and during; his stay the congregation was quite large, and the church and society flourishing. After a few years he left, and was suc ceeded by Mr, Jackson, also an English clergyman. He re mained but a few years, when thisbody began to decline, and in a few years more became extinct Their house of worship was sold in 1850, Methodists. — The Episcopal Methodists had a claM in 1^8 town at a very early period^ and whieh ffi believed t» fiO ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. fcHAr, have been gathered between 1795 and 1798. They were suppUed by circuit preachers, and here justice requires the remark, that these indefatigable, itinerant heralds of the cross, and of the discipUne of Wesley, did much in propaga ting the gospel in this town. This society met for worship in private dweUings, untU about the time that the Congre gational society became united in occupying the house in Hampton, when the Methodists purchased their house upon "South Street" They occupied this house untU 1835, when they deemed it ad'visable to divide the society, one portion erecting a house for worship in Hampton, the other in Lairds- vUle. The society in Hampton was much the largest of the two, and has a commodious house of worship, which has been recently refitted and improved. The society in LairdsvUle for a whUe flourished, and had many additions, but for a few years past has been smaU. In the winter of 1850 and '51, this society experienced a revival, and received considerable accessions to its numbers. The society has had preaching one half of each Lord's-day since its formation, by the preacher ha'ving both the societies in charge, but who is located in Hamp ton, The foUowing clergymen have officiated in the two socie ties since their organization, -viz.: Rev, Messrs, Harvey, Simon, EverdeU, Fox, Freeman, Paddock, Foster, Matteson and Row, The third Methodist society is located in LoweU, and wa.'^ organized, and erected a house of worship in 1838, Gethsemane [Episcopal) Church at Hampton, This church was organized about the commencement of the year 1842, and for a time was suppUed by the Rev, Stephen Mc- Hugh of Oriskany, Subsequently the Rev- Mr, Staples took charge of the church, and was succeeded by Rev, Mr, Spal ding, the present incumbent. In addition to their labors as pastors of this church, Messrs, McHugh, Staples and Spal- xxvm,] WESTMORELAND, 741 ding have had the principal charge of the DeLaney Institute, an academy in this viUage. The institute is under the aus pices of the Episcopal denomination, and has at present about forty-pupils. The church are making arrangements to erect a house for worship the coming year, Tlia First Baptist Church was constituted Majrch 17th, 1803, with eleven members, seven males and four females. One of this number, Elijah Waters, is yet living in the north part of the town. He is now ninety-one years of age, and can read the finest print without glasses, never having been under the necessity of using them. In March, 1804, Mr, Ora Butler came to preach to them, and was ordained, and became their pastor the same year. He continued as their pastor until his death, in February, 1811, During his labors the church and society erected a small house for worship in Lairdsville. He was a good preacher, and during most of his pastorate, the chureh was prosperous. After the death of Elder Butler, Elders Hascall, Gorton, Kincaid, Wade, Phileo, Beach, Lallatt, Bicknell, Green, Simmons, Reed and Belden preached to this people for different periods. Besides Elder Butler, Messrs, Kincaid and Simmons were called and ordained over this church. Messrs, Kincaid and Wade are now missionaries in India, Although this body has become extinct, and their house of worship left desolate, yet it has not been inaptly termed the "mother of churches," Tha Vernon, Verona, second Westmoreland and Clinton churches were, at different times, taken from it The parent stock had so often been bereft of its branches, and its limits become so circumscribed, that at length it lost its visibility. It was the fifth church of the denomination constituted in the coun ty, those at Whitestown, Deerfield, Paris and Sangerfield only being its seniors. 742 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP, Second Baptist Church. — This body is located in the north-easterly part of the town. Previously to 1817, this part of the town was comparatively new, yet a few of this de nomination had settled here, and united with the first Bap tist church. In the winter of 1817 and '18, a revival of re ligion was experienced in this section, and conference and prayer meetings were frequent, and well attended. The mem bers belonging to the first church living here, were remote from the place of worship at Lairdsville, made a request to that body for permission to organize as a branch church. The request was granted, and on the 21st of February, 1818, the branch was organized with five male and seven female members. Before their constitution as an independent church, twenty-eight had been baptised and added to the branch, the fruits of the revival. On the 20th of June, 1818, a council from the Baptist churches of Whitestown, Westmoreland, Western and Vero na, gave this body fellowship as a church in gospel order. It consisted of forty-eight members, twenty-two males and twen ty-six females. In 1819, they erected a small but convenient house for public worship. The church was prosperous and united for the first seventeen years after its formation. In 1836, an unfortunate division occurred, from a difference in theological views. The division was mutual, the aggrieved members retiring and organizing the Old School Baptist church. Since then, this body has enjoyed a good degree of harmony and unanimity of sentiment. Since its organization 437 members have been connected with this church, 261 by baptism and 176 by letter. It now numbers about 100 com' municants. For the first eight years and a half it had no pas tor, but was supplied with preaching, a part of the time, by Elders Phileo, Douglass, and Hearsey. Elder Caleb Read took the pastoral charge in the spring of 1826, and remained XXVIII,] WESTMORELAND. 743 seven years. He was succeeded in the spring of 1833, by Elder Amos P. Draper, who preached three years. In the fall of 1836, Elder John Ormsby took the charge and eon tinued untU the spring of 1838. In the aprisg of 1838, El der C. Read resumed the pastorate, iind continued two years. In the ^ring of 1840^ Elder Denison Alcott assum ed the charge, and continued for nine years, John M, Shot- well, a licentiate, preaehed from the spring of 1849 untU the spring of 1850, Four members of this church have been licensed preachers, two of whom, James Bicknell and Amos P, Draper, were ordained. Old School Baptist Churcli. — As mentioned in the histo ry of the Second Baptist Church, a portion of that body, by mutual consent, retired, and formed this church, March 5th,~ 1836. It numbered at that time about seventy members. Elder James Bicknell, who had been previously ordained, left with them, and became their pastor. In 1838, the ohurch and society built a house for public worship, forty by fifty-six feet. It is finished in a neat, plain, yet substantial manner. Elder Bicknell still continues their pastor. The point in doctrine distinguishing them from the church they • left is " particular atonement," and it is still all that severs them from the great body of the Baptist denomination. This ehurch has ever been fiourishing, receiving considerable additions, still the removals to other parts have been such, that in numbers it is but Uttle larger than when first formed, it has now between seventy and eighty members. Their house of worship is about one and a half miles north of the second church. These bodies have had considerable addi tions this winter (1850 and 1851), 744 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. BIOGRAPHV. James Dean, the first settler of Westmoreland, was born at Groton, Connecticut, in the month of August, 1748. Of his early youth nothing-is known, excepting that he was destined as a missionary to the Indians, and at the age of twelve years was sent to reside at Oquago on the Susquehanna, with an Indian missionary, named Mosely, who was then laboring with a branch ofthe Oneidatribe,located at that plaoe. He soon became master of the Oneida tongue, and was adopted by a female native as her son. To this mother he ever man ifested an ardent attachment. His acquisition of this lan guage was of great nse to him and his country in after life. Learning it when thus young, while the organs of speech were flexible, he was enabled to speak the language most fluently. The Oneidas said he was the only white person whom they had ever known, who could speak their language so perfeetly that they could not at once detect him, although he might be hid from view, but him they could not detect. How long he resided in Oquago is unknown, but in those few years, under the instruction of Mr. Mosely, he fitted himself to enter college. He was a raember of the first class whicli formed and graduated dt Dartmouth, His freshman year in that institution, was before the completion of a building for the use of the students, and the class used to study and re cite in a rude shelter, formed by placing slabs against the trunk of a large prostrate pine. In this poor apology for a college dormitory, young Mr, Dean studied and slept the first summer he spent in his collegiate course. He graduated just previously to the commencement of the war of the Rev olution, In 1774, the leading citizens of each colony were endeav oring to ascertain the sentiments of all classes of people, rela- .xxvm,] WESTMORELAND, 745 tive to the portending contest ; and the peculiar fitness and qualifications of Mr, Dean, recommended him to the conti nental Congress, then just assembled, as a suitable person to ascertain those of the Indians in New York and Canada, and the part they would probably take in the event of a war with the mother country. In order to disguise the object of his mission, it was arranged that he should a.ssumo the character of an Indian trader, and he was accordingly furnished with such goods as were then carried into the Indian country for the purposes of trade. He was also for that purpose furnish ed with letters, invoices and other papers from a well known house iii Boston, then engaged in the Indian trade. Thus fitted out, he commenced his expedition to the six nations, and their branches, andthe tribes connected with them, living in Canada. In the course of his travels in Lower Canada, he was arrested by the British authorities as a spy, and taken to Quebec, where he underwent a most rigid examination. His self possession was equal to the crisis, and, aided by his pa pers, ho was enabled perfectly to quiet their suspicions, and was dismissed, they having been successfully overreached by but au inexperienced hand in the art of honorable dissimula tion. It was during this expedition, tha tthe subjeet of this notice first visited Oneida Castle, and for the first time trod upon the soil of Oneida Count}'. At the commencement of the war of the Revolution, Mr. Dean was retained in the public service, with the rank of ma jor in the staff, as agent for Indian affairs and interpreter; T he selection was most fortunate. He was stationed during most of the war at Fort Stanwix and Oneida Castle. His position was often a most trying one, although entirely de void of opportunities for distinguishing himself or gathering laurels on the battle-field. This to the soldier is a cheerless position ; but as a true patriot, he remained at his post during 746 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. the whole contest, rendering the most important services to his country. The New York Historical Society have ob tained all of General Gates' papers, public and private, and among them are a number of manuscript letters from Mr. Dean, written during the eventful campaign of 1777, at Sar- To give a specimen of his duties the following is related, Nicholas Sharp, long known to the early settlers of the coun ty as " Saucy Nick," and as the worst Indian in the Oneida tribe, was during the whole contest true to the cause of the colonies, and one of the most active and reliable scouts in his nation. Shortly before the burning of Cherry Valley by the Indians and Tories, November Ilth, 1778, Mr, Dean dis patched Nicholas to Canada, to learn what he could of the designs and plans against the fronfiers. By means now un known, the scout ferreted out the whole plan of the expedi tion against that devoted settlement, from the Canadian In dians. The day fixed for the attack was so near, that it was necessary to make all haste to give the warning in time to save the plaee, and such was the celerity of Nicholas in re turning to Oneida, that upon his arrival he was entirely ex hausted, and for two or three days unable to walk. As no time was to be lost, Mr, Dean immediately dispatched Scan andoa to give the timely warning to Col, Alden, the com mandant at Cherry Valley. That officer unfitted by intem perance for his responsible position, heeded not the warning, believing that the severity of the season precluded the possi bUity of an attack. The inhabitants were therefore suffered to remain in their houses, and the gate of the fort left unfas tened, Onthe very night named by Nicholas, Cherry Val ley was burned, and the few of its inhabitants who escaped the tomahawk and scalping knife were carried into captivity. Col, Alden was among the slain. 2.XVm,] WESTMORELAND, 747 The great body of the Oneida tribe were induced by Mr. Dean, aided by Mr, Kirkland, to remain neutral, at least as far as appearances were concerned. In feeUng, with a few exceptions, they were with the Americans, and some of them did good service at Oriskany, Stone Arabia and some other places. The siege of Fort Stanwix, and the battle of Oriskany, oc curred during an absence of Mr, Dean down the Mohawk. On his return with the command of General Arnold, intend ed for the relief of the garrison, he passed the battle ground still strewn with the corpses of those who had fallen in the conflict, unburied where they fell. Such was the terrible ef fluvia, the wind being in the west, that when he arrived at the eastern border of the field he held his handkerchief to his face, and put his horse to its utmost speed to gain the wind ward side of that dreadful field, "where friend and foeman undistinguished lay festering," At the close of the war, Mr, Dean was present at a feast given the Stockbridge Indians in Massachusetts, General Washington gave orders to one of the contractors at West Point to furnish the provisions. An ox weighing 1,100 pounds was barbacued for the occasion. The principal men in the vicinity were present. Mr, Dean and the Rev, Mr. Sergeant (missionary to the Stockbridge Indians, in this eounty) presided at the table. After the feast, the Indians performed the ceremony of burying the hatchet, as a token that war was past, also some other of their national ceremo nies, for the gratification of their guests. Mr. Dean, ever after the war enjoyed the confidence of the Oneida tribe. On the 30th of December, 1783, he sent letters, and an address from them, to the board of the mission ary society in Scotland, asking that Mr. Kirkland should be -continued as a missionary. 748 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. In 1785, he was at Oneida, and received an address from the celebrated Brant, which he forwarded to Congress, re questing among other things, that Col. James Monroe, Major Peter Schuyler and Mr. James Dean, would be present at a council and conference with the Shawnees and Cherokees, to be held at Buffiilo Creek. For his services, the Oneidas gave Mr, Dean a tract of land tvi'o miles square, the title to be confirmed and ratified by the state. This was probably in 1783. He cho.se for its location ¦I tract upon the north side of Wood Creek, in the present town of Vienna, In the spring of 1784, he left Connecticut with Jedediah Phelps and Andrew Blanchard, in company, to commence the settlement of his land. The day of starting is not known, but they left Schenectady4khe 3d of May, and arrived at Wood Creek the 13th, Without knowing it, they undoubtedly passed Judge White, while he and his sons were engaged, upon the Shoemaker farm, in planting their crop of corn. After Mr. Dean and his party arrived at Wood Creek, they built a log house and a shop for Mr. Phelps, who was a brass-founder and silver-smith, and intended to work for the Indians. During the snmmer they made a small clearing, and although now covered with a second growth of timber, it still retains its name of "Dean's place." In the spring of 1785, the place became inundated to such an extent, that for three weeks they were obliged to live in the garret of their log cabin, and for the purpose of cooking their meals, they de scended from their loft into a canoe by a ladder, and then rowing to the shop, used the forge as their only fire-place above high water mark. On the subsiding of the water, the party were fully satisfied that the selection was an unfortu nate one, and unfit for the commencement of a settlement. Jlr, Dean stating this to the Indians, they agreed he might change the location to any point upon the west side of the XXVni.J WESTMORELAND. 749 " line of property " between Brothertown upon the Oriskany and Wood Creek. He selected his land so as to include the , falls of the creek, since known as Dean's Creek. To render such location certain, the survey, as appears from the descrip tion of his patent, of the east line of the patent commenced in the -creek, and thence run north and south, to the north and south bounds of the tract. He located his patent in the fall of 1785, and, as before stated, settled upon it in February, 1786. At this time he was unmarried, but in the fall of that year he visited Connecticut, and was married to Miss Lydia Camp on the Ilth of October. Mr. Dean's energies were now directed to clearing a farm, inducing settlers to remove to his patent, and in building mills for their accommodation. Success crowned his efforts, and it was but a few years before every lot offered for sale was " taken up " by an actual settler, Tbe incidents contained in the three foUowing chapters oc curred at about this period, and they are here transcribed as they were written out by the author and published a -few years since in most of the papers of the county. AN INCIDENT IN THE EARLY HISTORY OF ONEIDA COUNTY, Fifty years since the settlement of Dean's Patent, in the town of Westmoreland' (then a significant name), was the "far west," Where is it now ¦? Almost at the foot of the Rocky Mountains ! Wonderful people these Yankees — these Americans! What inthe old world took almost as many centuries, has been accomplished in this brief space of-'time- • As every thing that tends to preserve from oblivion any 750 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP; traits ofthe savage character, as exhibited in the noble Oneidias> then the lords of this and the adjoining county of Madison, or the "hair-breadth escapes" of our first settlers, wUl be read with interest by the present, if not the rising generation, the writer has attempted to preserve one of those thrilling in cidents with which those times were replete- " Truth is strange, stranger than fiction," The faets set forth in the fol lowing incident can be vouched for, by a few living in this vicinity. The Hon, James Dean was the pioneer settler of Oneida County; he was the first Yankee who had the hardihood to commence a settlement west of the German Flats, on the Mo hawk, While but, a lad nine years old, he was sent by his father to reside with a branch of the Oneida tribe of Indians, then living at Oquago,, on the Susquehanna, He soon learned their language, and beeame a favorite with the Indians, He was adopted as a son by a squaw, in the place of one she had lost in battle, and to this woman he ever afterwards gave the endearing appellation of mother. After a few years' resi dence, his father took him home and- finished his education at Dartmouth College, About this time, the Oneidas broke up their settlement on the Susquehanna, and joined the main body of their tribe at Oneida Castle, The war of the Revolution now broke out, carrying with it many of the horrors of a civil war, added to the cruelty of the tomahawk and scalping knife of the savage, so freely used by the British on our defenceless frontier. Judge Dean was stationed, during the whole of the war., at the Oneida Castle and Fort Stanwix (now Rome),, with the rank of Major, on account of the influence he possessed over the Indians. He succeedied' in keeping most of the Oneidas from any acts of hostility. He was very useful in ferreting out and giving, useful information of many plots of the: leas xxvm.] WESTMORELAND. . 751 friendly tribes. After the peace of 1783, the Oneidas gave him his patent of two miles square, which was subsequently ratified by the State. In. 1 784, he removed from Connecticut and commenced the settlement of Oneida County, Two or three years after this, a party of the OneidaS' went to the Cahoes, on their annual fishing expedition- The fishery belonged to the Mohawk tribe, yet they gave their neighbors the privilege once in each year of repairing thither to catch what fish they chose — this privilege having been handed down from time immemorial. The party had the means of procu ring the fire-water of the white man, of which they made' too free a use. On their return, some where in the valley of the Mohawk, they took possession of a blacksmith's shop, in the absence of the owner, using the fire for the purpose of cook ing- On the return of the owner, he sat about dispossessing his noisy tenants. They objected and refused, A scuffle and fight ensued, in which our son of Vulcan plied his ham mer so freely as to cause the death of one of the party. They- then took their dead eomrade,broughthim to the Oneida, and he was buried in the same ground where the grass had for ages grown on the graves of his fathers, A council fire was now lit up, the well-known conch sounded, and the tribe were soon collected- in council. By an ancient law of the Oneidas, if any of their tribe were murdered by a member of another tribe with whom they were at peace, the first person of the tribe passing through their territory was to be execu- tedi, to appease the relatives in the tribe ofthe murdesed. The councU, after a full consultation and: mature dehbera tion, kl which their order and decorum should ever put to blush some of the late legislative proceedings of the less civ' iliaed (in this respect) white man, it was decreed that said law-should' be enforced on. the whites. Ignorant of the murder, or doinge of the council, Judge 752 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAF, Dean, having business to transact in the vichiity, was the first white who passed through Oneida Village. Again the smoke arose over the council cabin, and the tribe again assembled in council. After a lengthy sitting, in which the friendship of Judge Dean to the Indian, and his having been adopted by their tribe, had been duly considered, and after the coun cU had expressed their regret that he should be so unfortU' nate as to bring himself within their law, it was resolved that their ancient law must be enforced. In pursuance of their resolution, Powlis, one of their bravest warriors, and long known as the personal friend of the Judge, was selected as the executioner, together with the requisite assistants, and was instructed to do his duty faithfuUy. Soon after this last council, some friendly Indian conveyed to Judge Dean the circumstances which I have detailed, and he without men tioning it to his wife, or any friend, proceeded to settle and arrange his business, under a strong conviction, that, at best, the tenure of his life was very precarious. Fleeing frora the e.'cecutioner of the law, is an act of meanness and cowardice, of which in the opinion of the savage, none but the pale faces or women would ever be guilty. Judge Dean was therefore determined to convince them he could meet death like a Christian, which religion he profess ed. But a few days intervened, when, after he had retired to rest with his wife and infant child, he was startled from his -slumber by the well known death whoop, near his dwel ling. He then briefly stated the case to his dearly beloved wife, exhorting her to fortitude, in the trying scene he was confident would soon commence. The space was brief, ere his accustomed ear caught the soft aud stealthy step of the Indian, at the door ; the door opened, and Powlis, with his tomahawk, as his badge of office, entered, followed by three or four assistants. The Judge met them on the threshold, and XXVin.] WESTMORELAND. 753 calmly, without the relaxation of a muscle, invited them into another room. : He then commenced in the Indian tongue, and told them he had been informed, and well knew their errand. He told them it was wrong to put him to death for the crime of an other, a person he did not know, and over whom he had no control ; that it would displease the Great Spirit for them to visit on the innocent, the punishment due the guilty, that he had ever been the friend of the red man. He then made a pause. Powlis and his assistants went apart and held a con sultation. Powlis then informed him, as the result of their deliberations, that he must die, that his face was pale, that the murder was committed by a pale face, they belonged to one nation, and of course came within their law. Judge Dean told them their words were all wrong, that the murderer was a Dutchman, and did not speak tke same language he did, that he could not understand their talk ou the Mohawk, that he, Powlis, might as well be called a Seneca or Tuscarora, be cause his face was red, that they must not make him respon sible for the doings of all bad white men. Furthermore, he told them he belonged to the Oneida tribe, that his adoption had been sanctioned at the council of their chiefs and braves, and of course he could not be responsible, nor come within the rule. Another consultation was then held by the Indi ans, when Powlis informed the Judge that his arguments had all been thought of, and considered by their council, and his words were like the bark of the laeech tree, very smooth, yet they did not heal their wounded nation, the blood stain was on their tribe, and it must be washed away — die he must As a last resort, the Judge appealed to Powlis on account of the friendship that had long subsisted between them, that they had warmed at the same flre and eat of the same venison, and would he now raise his hand to take his life ? 48 754 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [c'HAP. Powlis here interrupted him, and said that when he thought of his friendship, his heart was soft, it was like a child's. But' shall it ever be said of Powlis, that he, will not do his duty to his tribe, because it is his friend that Stands in the way. No brave will enter the door of Powlis, if he does not do his duty, but will point to his dwelling and say, that is the wigwam of a woman, and as he spake his black basilisk eyes began -to light up with excitement; already had the tomahawk began to raise for the perform ance of its work ; already had the Judge reckoned his course on earth as run, and his mind bade farewell to all he held dear on earth — when the quick and almost noiseless tread of the moccasin caught his ear, the door opened and in rushed his adopted mother, with a friend, and stood between him and Powlis. After observing the Judge for a moment, she commenced — " my son, I am in time, I am not too late. the tomahawk is not yet red with your blood." She then turned to Powlis, and after eyeing him closely, if possible to scan his feelings, she again commenced, and said that, " soon after ho and his assistants had left the Oneida, she got information of tho doings of the council, and of their departure to execute its decree, that she immediately summoned her friend and followed with the swiftness of the deer, that she had come to claim her son, that she had adopted him to fill the place of her young brave who died in battle, that his adoption had been sanctioned by the council, that the law would not take a son from her for the crime of a white." She was calm, sho quailed not at the fierce look of Powlis, when he told her to be away, to be gone, that she was a squaw, that the decisions of the council should not be defeated by a woman, that she had better be at home pounding corn, and waiting upon her hus band, and again began to brandish his tomahawk as if impa tient of this new delay in the sacrifice of their victim. The XXVra.] WEST.-ttORELAND. 755^ mother and herfriend now each produced a knife, bared their bosoms, when the mother said, " if you are determined to take his life, you can only do it by passing over our dead bodies; if the floor is to be stained with his blood, it shallbe mingled with ours ; his blood shall not run alone." When Powlia saw the determined and courageous bearing of the women, he beckoned his companions one side, and the result was to de fer proceedings for that night, and refer the raatter again to the tribe in council, when the mother should have an oppor tunity to be heard, and as thie subject was never again heard from, it was presumed the mother's entreaties prevaUed. While the name of Pocahontas has beem handed down to pos terity, and is familiar to every school boy, for her noble daring, in preserving the life of Capt. Smith, the name of this heroic mother, who- saved a life equally valuaible and dear, has been lost. The part which Powlis took in the transac tion never caused any interruption to the friendship alluded to, for during the remainder of his life, he made the Judge an annual visit, enjoj?ing without restraint his hospitality for i three or four days at a time. CHAPTER II. In this chapter I shall notice an incident in which Judge Dean's life was jeopardized, not by a tribunal, acting under the Indian code of laws, yet from the violence of individual resentment none the less dangerous. As late as 1792 or 1793, an Indian who had by some means the Dutch name of Han Yost appended to him, and who married a grand-daughter of the celebrated Scanandoa, was discovered about noon, by Judge Dean and family in the highway, some fifty or sixty rods from his house, coming towards it on the run, evidently intoxicated, and giving the 756 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. death whoop, that dismal yell which has caused many a bold heart to quail. When arrived at the house, he immediately entered, passed through the kitchen, to the sitting room, where Judge Dean was, and demanded money which he pre tended the Judge owed him. Judge Dean told him he owed him nothing, that he had ever paid his red brothers every cent that was their due, that he had never speculated out of the Indians. Han Yost replied, that if the Judge would not let him have the money he would take his life, and drew his knife, that constant companion of the savage, and made towards him. Mrs. Dean, who, though in feeble health, was a woman possessed of uncommon strength and fortitude of mind, now caught up one of those long heavy iron handled shovels, that graced the corners ofthe broad backed fire places of our early settlers, and placed herself directly between her husband and Han Yost, and was evidently about to strike a blow which would probably have cleft the skull of the savage considering the weight of the weapon, and the cause which nerved the arm that wielded it Judge Dean, quick as thought, foreseeing and wishing to avoid future consequences, said, " my dear, don't strike, don't strike," which stayed the arm that held the weapon. She, however,kept her post between her husband and his foe, kept the Indian at bay, while the Judge coolly drew his handkerchief from his pocket, wrapped it around his hand, then quickly darted past his wife, and succeeded in securing the knife. Judge Dean was now on equal ground, and as his opponent was too far intoxicated to make a very stout resistance, he shortly had him confined in the cellar, where the fumes of the liquor soon caused him to fall into a sound sleep, from which he did not awake until the next morning. At that time he humbly begged to be re leased, and promised to behave better in future. After hav ing regained his liberty, he very humbly asked the Judge's XXVIU.] WESTMORELAND. 75? pardon, and said " he never could be thankful enough that they had prevented his taking the life of his very good friend," CHAPTER III, It had been a cold rainy day, in the month of November, the year not now known, neither is it necessary for our pur pose, any further than to say it was soon after the white man had commenced his depredations upon the dense forests of Oneida. I say it had been a cold rainy day, and when the evening sat in, large flakes of snow were seen intermingled with the rain, such a storm as would admonish the most har dy of the necessity of seeking an early shelter. Judge Dean, before retiring to rest, looked out on his little " improve ments," and saw that the snow was in a measure gaining the ascendancy, for the blackened stumps -and logs stood out in bold relief on the white ground work. Long after the Judge had retired to rest, he heard a noise at his door, as if same person was trying to gain admittance. He continued to listen, and at length became satisfled that it was some benighted son of the forest, partially intoxicated, and as the door was securely bolted, he made up his mind he would not be troubled or disturbed at that late hour, excu sing himself, that the Indian might have obtained his lodg ings where he did his liquor. After hearing the fruitless ef forts continued some fifteen or twenty minutes, the Indian ev idently gave up his efibrts as if discouraged. The Judge then heard in the low, soft, guttural and plaintive sounds of the Oneida tongue, an appeal which thrilled through his bo som, causing the blood to course swiftly and warmly to his heart. Literally translated, it was—" Alas ! must I then perish, at the door of my friend ! " 758 ANNALS «r ONEBBA COUNTY. ['CHAP, What an appeal! to use an expression "of Burns on a dif ferent occasion ; " compared to this" the studied and finished periods of pathos, " are tame," It is hardly necessary to add that nothing further was re quisite to open the Judge's h^art, his door, his fire, and his pantry. Judge Dean received repeated evidence of the confidence ¦of his fellow citizens. For a number of years he was one of the Judges of the Oneida Common Pleas, and he was twice honored with a seat in the House of Assembly. As a magis trate, he was upright and impartial. In politics he was ar dently attached to the federal school. He was twice married. By his first marriage (which has been mentioned) he had six children, four sons and two daughters. His eldest son, James, was educated at Union College, and chose the profession of law, whieh he practiced a number of years. He was elected to the Assembly, and took his seat in that body in 1820, He was afterwards ap pointed a Judge of the County Courts, and more subsequent ly was eleeted County Clerk, which office he held for one term. He resided many years in Utica, where he died May 22, 1841, aged fifty-three years, Luke C. the second son of the Judge, is a farmer, and resides in the old family mansion. John, the third son, was also a farmer. He died in July, 1849, aged fifty-seven. Electa, the oldest daughter, is the wife of Hon, Joshua A, Spencer, of Utica, Mary, the youn gest daughter, is the relict of the late Augustus G. Morrison, and resides in the vicinity of her father's former residence. The author believes he is but rendering a just tribute to de parted worth in speaking of the two deceased sons, James and John, They were his earliest school-mates, and during XXVIII,] WESTMORELAND, 759 their lives conadered as among his choicest friends. Honest and without guUe, they were ornaments to society. James possessed of all that fortune could bestow, was ever affable and kind, John, in the latter part of his life, had the misfor tune to have his usefulness impaired to some extent, by in juries resulting from being kicked by a horse, yet, through life, he was the noble, benevolent friend and benefactor of his raee. Judge Dean was quite an extensive farmer. The evening of his life was spent in that pleasant quiet, rendered thrice welcome from the eventful vicissitudes of its ante-meridian portion. His first wife died July 3d, 1814. He was again married to Cynthia Phelps, (widow of Joseph Phelps), who survived him a number of years. He died September 1 Oth, 1 823, in the seventy-sixth year of his age. Judge Dean was a good scholar, and as a writer his style was beautiful and chaste. After the close of the Revolution ary contest, he wrote a lengthy essay upon the Indian myth ology. The manuscript was lent tp President Dwight, but never returned. This work, upon which much time and labor had been expended, and which no doubt contained much that would be valuable, is now probably lost to the world. He was a firm and professed believer in the Christian religion. The following obituary of Capt John Vaughan, wUl be read with interest It is believed, that no other family in this county, and probably very few in this country, can show such a number of descendants from the same father and mother. The obituary was at the time cut by one of his neighbors from the Utica Patriot, but does not contain the xconth or year of his decease, and the author has been unable 760 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. to ascertain' the time, nearer than that it was between Janu- ary^nd July, 1820, and probably in May. His wife survived him. " Died.— On the 9th inst., in the town of Westmoreland, Captain John Vaughan, aged eighty-seven years and eight months. He was born in the year 1733, At the age of twenty he married Ann Beebe, and lired with the wife of his youth sixty-seven years. By her he has the foUowing descendants, most of whom, it is believed, are riow liv ing, viz: Children - - . . - 14 Gi-and Children, 134 Great-grand Children, - - - 236 Great great grand Children, . . - 8 Total, . - - - - 382 Pvovidonce had bestowed on him a firm constitution— great bodily activity— a commanding stature, and strong powers of mind. At the age of twenty-two, he commauded as a captain, at the northward, in the old French war ; and in our revolution he was found flghting for the liberties of his country at Boston, New York and West Point. He was always a patriot. He died in the hope and in full faith of the gospel of our Redeemer." Isaac Jones was born March 6th, 1750, about thirty mUes south of Boston, in Bristol Gounty, Massachusetts. During most of the Revolution he was engaged in the transportation of military stores. Near the commencement of 1777, he changed his residence to New Marlborough, Berkshire Co,, Mass. He still . continued in the service of his country, until nearly, or quite to the close ofthe war. In 1787, hav ing previously married, he removed to CUnton, and com menced upon the farm owned for many years by Captain Aaron Kellogg, and now by his son, Hiram H. Kellogg. He remained there but a short time, and then removed to West moreland, He was the first supervisor of this town. He xxvm.] WESTMORELAND, 761 rendered himself conspicuous by his zealous advocacy of the democratic platform, when he had as coadjutors but two vo ters in this town. He was a man of strong native powers of mind, and great independence of charaeter. He died on the 16th of Oetober, 1808, in the town of Vernon, whither he had removed a few years previously, Joseph Jones, a brother of Isaac, was born at the same place, February 21, 1757, and removed to New Marlborough, about the same time. He came to Westmoreland in the spring of 1787, and resided for many years a few rods west of the Baptist meeting house in Lairdsville. He held the office of supervisor four years, that of a justice of the peace more than twenty years, and for a considerable period was post master and town clerk. Daring the time he was a justice of the peace, he was the only acting magistrate in his section of the town, when the duties of the office were very considera ble. Notwithstanding his early advantages had been so lim ited, that he had the benefit of but two days' attendance at school, stUl by his unaided application, he well qualified him self for the offices conferred upon him by his fellow citizens. He died in Vernon, March 3, 1835, inthe seventy-ninth year of his age. In copying the following obituary notice of his honored father, the author beUeves no apology is necessary. It was written by the younger Judge James Dean. " Died. — In Westmoreland, on the 19th of December, 1838, Captain Nehemiah Jo.ves, a patriot of the Revolution, and one of the pioneers of central New York, aged seventy-eight years and six months. " The triumph of his country's arms having rendered his services in the ' tented field ' no longer necessary, the subject of this brief no tice, with the enterprise characteristic of the sons of New England, 762- ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. ' [cHAP. removed, in January, 1787, with hi? faniUy and, a numerous circje of relatives, from the state of Massachusetts, to that part of Whitestown, since called Westmofelanc[ (then an almost uhbrbken foresf), 'where he continued to reside from that time till his death. Beirig of a stu dious and contemplative turn of mind, he early acquired from read ing and reflection, an ample fund; of UseTul knowledge, which com bined with his native kindness of heart, and peculiarly jdey,Qtioiial feelings, rendered his society and conversation highly interesting and instructive. The loss of hearing, liqweverj, an(| other bgdily infirpi- ties, withdrew him some years since from the scenes of active Iffe, and greatly abridged His social intercourse ; but through the favor of Providence his powers of mind remained unimpaired until near the closeoflife. ,,,, , ._; ;. . , . i, " Haying a .happy talent of versification, lie employed muchofilus thne during this interval iri composing lijrmns and other deyptioaal pieces. Indeed his pen was atall times .a ready resource ;' so' that, though deprived in a gi'eat degi'ee, by his deafness, of the pleasures of canversatioB, he never sunk into!Hs*lfessness and gloom, but greet ed every one, who called on him: both 'Old aadiyojin^j with a look beaming with, happiness, and r^dolei^t.of,the purest Ioye, In the vigor of manjqod he em|iraoe,^, the religion ^f, Jesus, a,nd exemplified its spiiit and its power, in' his daily w the hospital (.which was the Friend's meeting bouse), where he remained until his whole term as prisoner amounted to ten months and, twenty days, when he was exchanged. When first confined, there were but eight- inmates in the prison, but in autumn the nuraber had in creased to more than thr-ee hundred. During the whole time of his- imprisonment, there was- but a solitary successful attempt to escape, and. that- by a single individual. Another attempt was made by a very active young man by the name 772- ANNALS OF ONEIDA ffOUNTY-. [CHAP. of Squires. He had observed! that the rubbish had: so accu mulated in one corner of the yard that he could by getting upon it, scale the nine feet board fence by which it was sur rounded.; He preparedi himself by putting on two suits of clothes, so as not to suffer from cold -if he had to lie in the field over night, 'He watched his opportunity when the sen tries were on the opposite side of the prison, when he suc ceeded in clearing the fence. But as ill luck would have it, an old tory on the outside saw him leap from the fence, who immediately set up- the hUe arid cry of "stop thief" The inhabitants in the vicinity not understanding the deeeptio.n, turned out in the pursuit, and the poor fellow was soon re captured. When brought backj the Hessian sergeant, who commanded the guard, was determined to take his life, and made several thrusts at him with his sword, but the strength and quantity of Squires' clothing, eifectually resisted its blun ted point, and preserved his life. After the cold weather of autumn had come on, anbther plan was contrived, by which a considerable number hoped eventually to get clear of their hated prison. The guard house stood so near, that a plank from orie of the upper win dow's would reach its roof, from -whence they could escape to the ground on the outside of the yard. One dark night, tbe four-who were to be the pioneers in this projected escape sue-' ceeded in thus getting outside the yard without alarming the sentries. After three days, almost famished with cold; and hunger, they returned and gave themselves up. They said they had searched in vain, for a boat to convey them to the main land, but had failed, as they were all secured by the British. They had not dared ^to call on a'ny of the inhabi tants', for fear of falling into the hands of the tories. ' They had even- explored the banks of the Harlem River without any better success. XXVIII.] WESTMORELAND. 77^ The. 'winter of 1 779-80, was the coldest known since the- settlement of the United Sta|es, ' |!ven,th« mention of the "ha,Td" winter" wiUyet cause a shudder to' run through the nerves of the iron men of the Revolution, ! The, ^prisoners had, by some means, learned thiat the rivers by which .^New York Island was surrounded, were so frozen, that- the heavi est, teams could pass in ;Safety. Now .they :thou-ght -was their time, but how tp get cleMofthe guard was thequestion. The scaling system had not proved successful, they therefore ,now determined to undermine.^ All the trenching tOQls possessed were a mason's trowel -and - a shoe hammer, and ; with these the work was commeneed in earnest, and day after day it progressed. From the old gentleman's description, the mari ner of excavating was soraewhat ludicrous. The head work men Ittosened the earth and cast it behind, as near to himself as he cpuld J the next on 'his knees with his face towards the first did the same, and SO' on, until the line reached from the extremity to the cellar When thus paraded, they com menced putting the , earth back with their hands on each side, until it reached the cellar. As ; the mine increased in length more hands were added, so that the distance the dirt had to be nioved, did not in the least retard their work. The- digging was easy, the, soil being light and sandy. Np fears were entertained that th|e-. passage would become filled by its caving in, the surface being so firmly frozen. By theijr, perseverance theyhad cleared out their trench fifty feet in length, find this they were confident leaohed outside the yard. They then commenced pefforating th^i frbzen sur face, and succeeded until light began to shoa'itself. AlLnow became 'highly elated, and only .waited a favorable opportuni ty to Open the avejnue, and again breathe the fUncontamina- ted air of heaven. But how bitter the disappointment. The very day after the so near eomple|iop; of their labors, arid, as 774 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. they had fondly anticipated, the completion of their odious confinement, they were visited by the officer of the guard, who discovered this new outlet to the prison, and made it se cure against all future attempts in that way. The prisoners were entirely satisfied that treachery had been at work, and that some one of their own number was the traitor. Suspi cion fell on an individual, but as the proof was exceedingly slight, the matter soon passed over. Their sufferings from cold were every day growing more intense. There were no fire places in the building, and only one box stove in one of the large rooms. Their cooking had to be done in the basement over fires kindled upon the ground. Their supply of fire wood was so stinted, that after cooking, there was barely enough left to warm up the stove once in twenty-four hours. The rest of the time they were entirely without fire. Grown frantic and desperate, they now re solved upon a more daring and desperate movement to re gain their freedom, or to die in the attempt. Their guard consisted of twelve men, two of whom were constantly on duty. Their plan was to take advantage of some dark night, while all but the two guards were asleep, when a sufficient number were to attack and overpower those two, and the main body of prisoners were to rush into the guard house, seize the arms and conquer as they best could their waking owners, and then scatter in all directions so as to elude pur suit. Death, under any circumstances, they preferred to their present bondage. Upon the day preceding the very night in which their forlorn hope was to give the signal and com mence the attack, they were astonished to find their guard increased to sixty men, and the sentries doubled. Thus were they again defeated by a Judas, Their rage could with dif ficulty be restrained, but who the traitor was no one knew. Their suspicions as to the person before mentioned were TSVm.] WESTMORELASD. 77o Strengthened. They took him to the fifth story, and in formed him that his hour was eome, that this betrayal of his compamons had been ascertained, and that they had decided to diTOw him headlong from one of the windows. The evi dence against him however was so slight that the more mod erate and eantious of the jwisoners advised ddaj in the eie- -eution of this threat until his gnUt had heen more satisfacto rily established, and this advice was finally acceded to. The proof was soon fortheomin^ but the - bird had flown." for a few days afterwards he was taken from prison bv a British officer, and set at liberty. Soon afterwards, Mr. B. was removed to the hospital as before stated. Here an angel of mercy in the form of woman tippeared and administered to his every want. A good whig mstron dafly came to the hospital -with a cup of tea or c-ci- fee for each prisoner. She also went her daUy rounds among the good whigs then in the city to coUect fr«sh provisions fox the snfierers. and it seemed with success, for there was no lack of good things for the sick in the hospital After Mr. S. had partially r^ained his health, he 'was retained by the surgeon as an assistant, and did not again retum to the prison until his exchange, which took place in February. While he was narrating to the -writer the acts of kindness of "hat - angel woman." and describing the ;oy she infused into all hearts when she went her daUy rounds upon her errands •of mercy, the big tears glist^ied in his age-bedimmed eyes. and trickled do-sm his wrinkled cheeks. Whether she re- -reived any compensation in tiiis world is not known, bat we know great must be her reward in heaven. "While in the Sngar House, the treatment of the prisoners by the different seigeants of the guard was 'various. Some ~howed aU the hard-hearted ferocity of the hireliDg, unfed- ing soldier, -rhiie others possessed the irilk of human kind- 776 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP, ness. The guard was principally' furni^ed by the Hessipi regiments. One sergeant, n,am^cl Brown, by his hnmanity endeared himself to all theiprisoners. Hoi showed every in dulgence in his, power, and p^ten, while -he eommandj3,d,. tjlie guard, he permitted them i;Q gointp^he, yard for , the benefit of fresh air, where he frequently allowed tliem 1;o ,w;^l,k fpr half an hour. But the fortune of war changed sidjes. Mr. Bell was at the taking of Cornwallis. When the British ar my marched out of their lines to ground thf ir atms, he saw many guardsmen of the Sugar House, and among the rest Sergeant Brown, Upon recognizing each other, the sergeant ran from the ranks and embracing the subject of this notice, kissed him, .saying, in broken : English, " I- prisoner np'W, I, treat American prisoners kind, hope they treat ine good,"^ All that Mr, B. could do in return fo.r.the kindness of the Hes- . sian sergeant was to- assure hira pf his Ibesife wishes. Mr. B. , soon marched, back into. the country, and never a,gadnsaw the warm-hearted Hessian. It will be perceived by the dates, that .-Mr. Bell,, survived but afew months q,fter'he narratted the foKegoing inpi§;§nts of the Sugar House. ¦ The following inscription is f i-om, the monument erected to his memory in the cemetery near Lairdsville, - "PHINEAS BELL^ • ¦ ; A Patriot, of the Revolution, '¦ ¦ ' ¦ . Died, May 13,th, 1845, . , Aged 84 years, ,,: Me was one of tlie:flrst to take up arms in defence of his country at the early age of 15 years , and served faithfully to the elQse of the perilous contest, has since ¦been the recipient of-the 'bounty of a gratefufpeople, lived Jong to -enjoy . '. ' ¦ i . ^, it, apji^ied full of honors .and- of years,/' , XXVIIL] WESTMORELAND. 777 John Townsend, Esq., settled in this town in 1790, and lo- * cated on the flats formed by the "gulf brook" here entering the valley of the Oriskany from the west, and in the south west part of the town. The " Townsend flats," the name ap plied to that section, have ever been noted for their fertility and beauty, and in productiveness they are unsurpassed in the county. Esquire Townsend was a man of great moral , excellence, beneficence and purity of character. By industry and economy he secured a liberal competence "for his decli ning years. For his Revolutionary services he drew a pen sion of which he considered himself but the almoner to bestow for the spiritual and temporal good of his follow men. Past the meridian of life he made a profession of religion, which ho adorned by a correct walk and deportment. He was liberal and charitable in his views towards the several religious de nominations around him. He died in the 83d year of his age, full of years and ripe for a better world. The following obituary notice is of the second centenarian in the town, " Died,— At ¦Westmoreland, on the 17th of October, 1846, Henuv Fkaxcis Aaron Keckland, aged 100 yearsand 5 months. Mr. Keck- land was a native of Germany, came to this country as a soldier in the armyof Gen, Burgoyne, -was made prisoner at Saratoga, afterwards enlisted into the American service, continued a faithful soldier during the war, and, as he was proud to say, marched into New Yorlt witli Gen, 'Washington, when the city was evacuated by the British, and was honorably discharged." SCHOOLS. , From its earliest settlement the inhabitants of Westmore land have shown a liberal spirit in the education of their chil- ¦778 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. dren. In a number of instances, they did not wait until saw mills were built, so that a framed school house could beierect-*" ed, but rude log houses with bark roofs were hastily thrown up, to accommodate their children while acquiring the rudi ments of an education. As early as 1792, a school was taught in a log building which stood near the present bury ing ground, a short distance west of LaiTdsville. The teach er was Calvin Butler, brother of the Jate Deacon Salmon Butler of Clinton. This is believed to have been the first school taught in the town. In 1793, a iog school -house was built in -Lairdsville, and some time in 1 794, a teacher was hired for a year. He was competent, and bis pupils advanced rapidly, but after seven or eight months of his year had elapsed, it was discovered that he was intemperate, and that he was occasionally partiaUy intoxicated in school hours, -For several days, upon one oocasion, he carried about one of his eyes all the hues of the rainbow, received in a drunken brawl at a neighboring public house. In the spring of 1795, a number of the patrons of the school believing that such examples to their children should be no longer tolerated, a, meeting was notified to take the matter into consideration. The meeting was a protracted one, partof the district strong ly advocating the. continuance of the school, while the other part were equally tenacious for dismissing a teacher whose walk before his pupils was so irregular. The arguments, pro and con, having been exhausted, it was ibund upon taking the vote upon the motion for dismissal, that there was -a tie. The vote not being carriedto dismiss theteaeber, the advocates for conitinuing the school moved an adjournment, whioh was carried ^and they dispersed to their homes. Not so with the opponents of the school. Some of the leading spirits passed "round the word to their friends to remain after the adjourn ment. They did «o, and after the teacher's friends had ali ¦xxvm.] -WESTHORELAND, 779 left and were ont of sight, they carried out the books and stationery to a secure place, and then kindled a fire in the building, and did not retire until the destroying element had ^0 far progressed as to prelude aU possibility of its being quenched, thus most efiectually 'dismissing the drunken 'School teacher. ViLiASES, — Hamdon is the most 'centrally located and is the largest village in the town. Here are the Congrega tional and Methodist houses for public worship, the West moreland post-office, two dry goods «,nd a drug store, two taverns, an extensive 'carriage shop, three boot and shoe shops, two harness and -saddlers' shops, a tailor, milliner, a.nd a small tarmery. Last year (1850), Smith, Buell and Co,, erected and put into operation a furnace for the man' Hifaoture of malleable iron. It is doing a large business, -casting many 'of the articles formerly made of wrought iron, which is a great saving in labor and price to the oonsumer, in comaparison to their manufacture by the black smith. Hampton was forraerly celebrated as the plaee where the democratic county conventions were held, and many a knotty political question ha« here been settled satis factorily to the party, and a majority ©f the voters. No point in the county is as near the centre of the population as this ; but geographically Rome has the advantage, and the facilities the rail road have afforded that plaoe, have caused the an cient council ground at Hampton to become neglected. Hampton is located in the easterly part of the town, and is on a \gravelly plain of some seventy rods width, having '" Dean's Creek " oa its south, and " Sucker Brook " on it.s north side. 780 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. , JkJM^e/^.-— This is a business, pei|tre; jiurjihe, north-westerly- part ofthe town, where the plank rpad from !l^pme to -Madi son crosses thq ... rpa^i^rom Hampton ,, tp Veirona and ; New Lpndpn, Here are ,the; Lpwell pqst-OifiSce,, Methodist -and Congregational houses for worship , (the lattgr-nov^; obsolete), with carriage maker, blacksmith and shoe shogs, a store and tavern, Hecla T^?'/i5,— Early in the present century, a blast fur nace was erected and wen.t into operatipn at. this place, ' It was known as t^e " Westmoreland Furnace,!' and was carried on by , a company, the partners of -which changed several time.s. 'The ore, of; which there were two: beds witMu Jess than one mile, with a small proportipn fromthe Verona .beds, was used in the manufacture of iron, until thes forests in the vicinity were almost extirpatpd; for coal. The first building was of wood, which in ,a- few years gave, place- tp a substan tial stone structure, , After having, been ia operation abput thirty years,, the scarcity of coal caused the business tot be elpsed for a few years. ' IPor the few years past the business has been ; revived, the furnace haying been converted into a cupola for using pig iron. The acting partners are A. P. and Bradford Seymour, sons of one pf the - partners of the fornier concern. Tbe-qastingsatthe'present time are of the lighter class,. such as butts, all kinds of hinges and fastenings for doors ^nd window blinds, gate hangings and fastenings, coflee mills, etc., etc. .. The business is -extensively carried on, the articles manufactured are of the first quality, and find/a ready sale in b^th eastern, and western niarkets, and as far south as Philadelphia. .There are -a dry goods store and various meehanics, the most of whora are emplpyed by the company. The whole .establishment is conducted on pijre temperance XXVIII.] WESTMORELAND. 7S1 principles. The Hecla post-ofBee was established at this place in the spring of 1851. Lairdsville. — Here is a post-offiee named in honor of the late Samuel Laird, the first settler at this place, and who for many years kept a public house. For some years. Laird's was the most noted tavern west of Albany. Mr. Laird, it is believed, was the first Yankee who ever opened an inn on the then great leading route west of the Hudson River. A few years later " Oaks' Stand " in the town of Phelps, in the - Genesee Country," was probably equally well kno-wn. Quite early Isaac Jones opened a second public house at this place, and it is believed that either of these houses did more of the legitimate business of tavern keeping, to wit : " the accom modation of travellers," than is done at the present time, in all the public houses between the Oneida Castle and Utica. The Erie Canal and the Syracuse and Utica Rail Road have so diverted the business, that, like many other of the small places on the Seneca Turnpike, it has retrograded for the last twenty -five years, and landed property inthe vicinity has materially decreased in value. A tavern stand and small farm one mile west of Lairds ville, which in 1808 sold for $2,700, and in 1815, for $4,250, were sold in 1850, for $2,150. At present, the Methodist house of worship is sustained, Iso a small store, tavern, and a few mechanics. 782. ANNALS OS ONEIDA COUNTY.. foHAP.. CHAPTER XXIX. WHITESTOWN. In this town was commenced thefirst pei-manent settle ment of the county, or in the state, west' of the Dutch settle ment in the valley of the Mohawk; Soon after the close of the Revolutionary contest; the attention of the " sons of the Pilgrims'* in New England, was called towards western New York, as an exceUent field .forthe display of Yankee en terprise. As early as the French and Indian war of 1756. the coltfnial soldiers under Lord' Amherst had penetrated through the wilderness, by the way of Otsego Lake and Oneida Castle to Oswego, or with another portion of the same army had ascended the Mohawk to Fort Schuyler (now Utica), thence through what are now parts of New Hartford, Kirkland, Westmoreland' and Vernon, to join their comrades at Oneida. These soldiera, on their return, made a glowing report of the beauty and fertility of the wild lands through which they passed, and their accounts were fully corroborated by the Indian missionaries. But the eventful times prece ding and during the Revolution, called the attention of all to the securing of that dearer, richer boon — Liberty. During that contest, the soldiers of New England again visited central and western New York, composing ia part the garrison of Fort Stanwix ih the campaign of 1777, and a brigade of Massachusetts troops under Gen. Larned, was with Gen. Arnold when he raised the siege of that for- XXIX.J -WHITESTOWN. 783 tress. In 1787, when Gen. SuUivan administered that thorough chastisement to the Indians, New England fur nished at least a full moiety of his army. At the close of the war, the beauties of the valleys of the head waters of the Mohawk were remembered. Hugh White removed from Middletown, Connecticut, in May. 1784, and arrived in what is now Whitestown on the Sth of June, He came by water to Albany, crossed by land to Schenectady, where he purchased a batteau, in which he made passage up the Mohawk River, to the mouth of the Sauquoit Creek. His four sons, a daughter and daughter in-law accompanied him. When he left Middletown he sent one of his sons with two yokes of oxen by land to Albany, who arrived there about the same time as did his father. As the family proceeded up the Mohawk in the boat, their teams kept even pace by land, and when they arrived at Shc/emalxrs, a few miles below Utica, on the south side ofthe river, they found many of the farms in that vicinity unoccupied, and the charred remains of dweUing houses and out-buildings told a fearful tale of the ravages committed by the tories and savages. Judge White, looking to the means for the future subsistence of his house hold, stopped at this place, tiUed one of the vacated field? and planted it with corn. At the proper season, the father and sons returned from their new home at the mouth of the Sauquoit, and hoed this field of corn, and in the fall they were repaid for their labor with a bountiful crop. It was harves ted and brought up in their boat. Judge White was born February 15th, 1733, making him fifty-one years of age at the time of his removal. It was not, therefore, the ardor and restlessness of youth which induced him to emigrate, but that spirit of enterprise and perseverance which looked forward to the future prosperity of himself and family. The precise time at which he arrived at the plaee 784 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. where the field of corn was planted, can not now be ascer tained, but it was just before " pinkster " (Whitsunday), a moveable feast which comes six weeks after " paas " or "poss," i, e, Easter-day, which would bring his arrival there at about the 20th of May, " Paas " and " pinkster " are days noted in the annals of the Dutch, and were observed with many pe culiar customs and ceremonies. Judge White had five sons, Daniel C, Joseph, Hugh, An sel, and Philo, Ansel is yet living on Long Island, He resided a great number of years upon the farm, yet occupied by his sons, about half a mile from Whitesboro ViUage, upon the road to Middle Settlement, Philo, the youngest, died April 12, 1849, aged eighty-two years. He was about six teen years of age at the time of his emigration to Whitesbo ro, and up to the time of his death resided upon his farm, .-^till farther upon the road to Middle Settlement than that of Ansel. The Judge had also three daughters, Rachel, Aurelia and Polly. Inimediately after the Revolution, Judge White became one of the purchasers of Sadaqueda "-Patent, jointly with Zefhaniah Piatt, the father of the late Judge Jonas Piatt, Ezra L'Hommedieu, and Melancthon Smith. By an ar rangement between the proprietors, it was agreed that they should meet on the land in the summer of 1784, -and make a survey and partition. Upon the arrival of Judge White, at the mouth of the Sauquoit, a bark shanty was erect ed for a temporary residence. During the summer the pat ent was surveyed into four sections, and the particular sec tion of each owner was decided by lot. The section drew by Judge White being all intervale, he purchased of Smith the lot drawn by him in its rear, which extended to the south line of the patent upon the hill. By this last purchase the Judge XXIX.] WHITESTOWN. 785 hecame the.bwner in all, of about fifteen hundred ajcres, com prehending aU ,the land on both sides of Sauquoit Creek, from the corner formed, by the road to theOneida ;Factories, and the Utica road to the corner where the late Lewis Berry for many years resided in Whitesboro, and extending back on the hiUs more than a mile from the village: n . After the Judge had obtained this division and purchase, he at once proceeded to locate a site for a dwelling. The place' selected was upon the bank, which forms the eastern termination of the ¦village gr^en in Whitesboro, and about six rods southerly from the Utica road. The house erected was peeuUar. He dug into the bank so that the lower story was underground, and then the upper was built in true prim itive log house style. The ridge pole for the support of* the roof was upheld by forked trees, cut and set in the ground, - and, the roof was composed of slabs, split for thslt pu];pose from logs. This was the first house erected on the Indian -J and mUitary road between old Fort Schuyler (Utica) to Fort Stanwix. The Judge and his family resided in their new domicU .until a better one was erected, cutting and clear ing away the forest, and making preparations for the ensu ing season. About four acres were cleared, it' being the lot on which the court house and jaU, the dweUings of Jesse Ives, Alvan Bradley and the antiquated gambrel roofed, house soon after erected by the , Judge as his family maasion, now stand; and extending back towards the canal. The manner in which this field was cleared showed that they were no very great adepts in clearing new land, for they drew all the logs and rolled them off the afore-mentioned bank, not, making even one of those massive log heaps, to be burnedjjwhich ex perience teaches is the true way to rapidly fit a piece iof heavily timbered forest for agricultural purppses. * In Janu ary succeeding, he returned to Connecticut and> brough;t on 50 J 786 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. ,[CIIAP. his wife with the remainder of his family. "After a lapse of more than sixty years our people can hardly appreciate the trials, perplexities and privations to which the pioneers of Oneida County were subjected. The inventions of' the last half century, thp locomotive and steamboat, have ren dered emigration into the uninhabited wilderness, a matter comparatively of little hardship, and we now bid farewell to the friend bound with his famUy to the distant fields of the far west, and expecting to ereet his cabin scores of miles be yond the smoke of any neighbors' cottage, and perhaps thou sands of miles from the home of his childhood, very much as we exchange salutation with our neighbor who is leaving his home on a visit for a week," The early settlement of the " Whitestown eountry " as a large section of central New York was then termed in New England, was attended with hardships, trials and perplexi ties, of which it is difficult for us now to form an adequate idea. For the first two years of Judge White's residence at Whitesboro, the nearest mill was situated at Palatine, a dis tance of about forty miles. This distance, it must be borne in mind, or at least a cpnsiderable portion of it, was then traversed only by an Indian path, perfectly impassable by any wheeled carriage, and barely permitting ahorse to tliread hi.-= way through it. And the early settlers of the county used often to speak of carrying bags of grain upon their backs to Palatine and the German Flats, to be ground, and then re turning with, the flour in the same manner. In 1788, tho mill situated on the Sauquoit, upon the road from Whites boro to Utica was erected. It was built by Judge White, tke late Amos Wetmore and John Beardsley; and for many- years was known as Wetmore's mill. This was the first mill which graced the imm«cnse water power of Oneida County. For the following history of this mill, the author is indebted X-'^"'^-] WIMTE.STOV.'.N. 787 to a case reported in Caine's Cases- in Error (vol. 2, p. 87), an abstract of the facts stated iu which is here given. These facts appear at this time as very singular, and show a curious state of things, but they are given as fpund, without farther " note or comment." The case shows that on the 13th of May, 1788, Hugh ¦\Vhite, sen., and Amos Wetmore agreed to buUd a grist-mill y on Wetmone's land, near the line between their farms, on the f?auquoit, of which White and Wetmore were to own eacL one-fourth, and John Beardsley, mill-wright and builder, to own one-half They had verbally agreed in 1 787 to buUd the mUl, The mill was erected in 1 788, In the latter year tho} also erected a saw-mill near by, and each owned one-third The water was taken from the Sauquoit to the mills, on Wet-"' more's land by a canal. In 1791, Beardsley sold his shares iu the mills to Wetmore, for $ 600, and soon after White sold Wetmore his shares for $ 187, the mills 'being greatlj out of repair — but the latter reoeived no deed from White, and nothing was said upon either sale respecting the water. W^etmore soon fully repaired the mills, and put a pair; of stones into the grist-mill, and- a year or. two afterwards the mills were burned down. Wetmore immediately rebuilt them and enjoyed them peaceably 'till, 1797, when Hugh White, sen., threatened to cut down the dam and deprive Wetmore of the use of the water, 'unless he (Wetmore), would become a Presbyterian, and join the congregation un der the charge of the Rev, Bethuel Dodd, and would also build a dam and turn one half of the water of the creek over a meadow contiguousto the Sauquoit, and adjoining to the dam erected for the use of the miUs,' which meadow Hugh White, sen,, had conveyed to his son Hugh White, jun,, in 1794. In September and October, 1797, the dam was cut through three times, permitting the wat«r to escape. So- 788 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP, anxious had been H, White, sen,, in 1 788, to have the grist and saw-mills erected, that he offered Wetmore and Beardsley the water forever and a ' barrel of pork,' if they alone would buUd the mills and not trouble him with them. After being in law several years, the Court of Errors decided in 1805, that Wetmore was entitled to use the waters of the creek for the mills, although they were not particularly specified inthe sale by White or Beardsley to him," Previously to the erection of this mill, the early settlers in very many instances bad to resort to the samp mortar, tho pattern of whioh they borrowed from the aborigines, to re duce their corn to a proper consistency for the making of hominy. It may be well to describe the manufacture of thi.s mortar, A white ash log about three feet in length and some fifteen inches in diameter was selected, and to render the ar ticle more ornamental, one was selected, if possible, containing a circular bulge for the top of the mortar. To hollow it out with a proper taper required some little ingenuity and pa tience, but every obstacle could be easily surmounted by Yan kee perseverance. Coals of fire were placed on the upper end and with the aid of a hand bellows, of which there was at least one in every neighborhood, the coals were kept alive and burning. Water was applied if necessary to prevent inequal ities or burning too far on one side. As the cavity increased iu depth, the quantity of coals was decreased, so that a perfect taper from top to bottom was acquired. Many and many a good meal of hominy were made from corn pulverized in such mortars by the first settlers of Oneida, The little remnant of the Oneida aborigines left, near the western line of tho county, yet continue the use of such mortars, believing that meal manufactured in them makes a richer and better " hom iny," than if ground in a mill. As low down the' Mohawk as Palatine, the agriculture of XXIX.] wnrrESTOWx. 7Se the Dutch hiid in a great measure been suspended hy thefre- quont inoursions of the hostUe Indians, and the more savagt- tories. and for several years the whole produce of the country was barely sufficient to meet the demand created bv the emi gration which immediately fbUowed Judge White. The ¦want of animal food -was severely felthy the settlers. Tht- war had exhausted fiearly all the stock of cattle aud sheen iMi the Mohawk, and the few that remained were preserved wirli great care for restocking the country, being too valuable t J be kiUed for present use. During the summer of 17S4. the stock of meats brought with them, furnished them with abundance, and in the succeeding -winter the demand had bix-n supplied by the game taken in the forest PhUo. tht- yo-:ingeii sou of Judge White, was particularly useful in the taking of game. To use his own expression. ¦• he was the hunter and fisherman for the whole famUy." He was sixteen yejirs of age when he arrived, a time of life when the gun and iiiiing rod are pecuUarly attractive, and many were the --tring? of spv^-kled trout he brought to the fiunUy. and his r-rowesi as a hunter was frequently rewarded with saddles of venLs>n taken upon his fathers domain, and as he told the author manv a good fat buck had he shot upon the farm up on which he afterwards lived. In the spring of 17S5. the i-;2eoi:s were so plenty in the woods, and they were so easUy t;.ken as to suggest the idea of preserving a stock of summer provisions from them. With this yiew they took great num bers, and separatiug the breasts from the remainder of the 1-odies, salted down one or two barrds of this singular species of salt meat This answered as an apology for something tetter : and those who ate it. declared that although not as palatable as some deUcacies whieh might be named, it tasted nearly as weU as the salt with whieh it was preserved, besides conveying the idea of - actual meat victuals " to boot TMs 790 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. -is but one small specimen of the thousand inconveniences fvhich the early settlers had to encounter. But they were met and endured with a good nature, and a disposition to make the best of them, which divested them of half their force and weight. As the settlement of the country pro gressed, these deprivations gradually disappeared, while the recollection of them, for many a year, furnished amusement : and the themes for many a pleasant social meeting to those who had endured them. The settlement of Whitestown soon began to progress rap idly. As a means for inducing his acquaintances in New England to emigrate. Judge White used to send to them, when opportunities offered, the largest and handsomest stalks of wheat, corn, oats, etc., also samples of his best potatoes and onions, as evidence of the productiveness of the soil. These so far excelled any thing they had been accustomed to .see, that very soon many came to see the country, and in gen eral were so well pleased that they located in the vicinity. In a few years, Whitesboro had become a flourishing village. Among the pioneers of Whitestown, the names of Amos Wet more, Jonas Piatt, George Doolittle, Thoinas R. Gold, Reu ben Wilcox, Arthur Breese, Enoch Story, Elisur Mosely, Ca leb Douglas, William G. Traey, and Gerrit G. Lansing are conspicuous. The author has not been able to ascertain the precise years in whieh these several persons removed to the town. Amos Wetmore came in 1785 ; Thomas R. Gold in 1792; and Ozias Wilcox came the same season, but later than Mr. Gold. The author has been unable to obtain materials for as com plete biographies of these individuals as he desired. Jonas Piatt. — Herkimer County was organized by an act p'assed February 17, 1791, and Mr. Piatt, -who had then XXIX.] WHITESTOWN. 791 lately established himself at Whitesboro, at that time in the bosom of the wUd uncultivated western forests," was appoint ed clerk of the new county, which office he held until the formation of Oneida County, when he was appointed elerk of thelatter. In 1809, Mr. Piatt was elected by the federal ists to the State Senate, from the old western district, which previously had been strongly repubUcan, On the Sth of Jan uary, 1810, he was nominated as the federal candidate for governor. The particular reasons for this nomination are thus given by Judge Hammond. [Political Histoi-y N. Y, vol. l,p. 279.) "He was a pioneer in the country west of Albany, for although Whitesboro, his place of residence, ia now quite in the interior, and rather easterly of the centre of population, in 1790, or aboutthat time, when Gen. Piatt es tablished himself there, it was a frontier settlement He had. therefore, grown up and grown great with the great west. Probably the hope of obtaining a strong vote in the old wes tern district, which until the last election has been consider ed the strong-hold of republicanism, was one reason for the selection of a candidate residing in that district, and the unexpected success of Mr. Piatt, in his election as senator, was proof of his personal popularity and indicated him as the most suitable candidate residing in that quarter for the office of governor." D. D. Tompkins was, however, elected by a large majority,. In the winter of 1814, Mr. Piatt was appointed to the of fice of judge ofthe Supreme Court of this State, in plaee of Smith Thompson, raised to the office of chief justice upon the elevation of Judge Kent, to the chancellorship. His term in the Senate had but just expired. The following portrait of Judge Piatt at about this period is drawn by Judge Hammond, (Vol, 1, p, 347,) " Mr. -Piatt, who. at this time, may be regarded as the most inflnen- 792 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. tial man in the federal party, was a lawyer, who had been in extensive practice, and though his' talents were not •brilliant, they were of a character highly respectable ; his morals were perfectly pure ; though he possessed a deep intense tone of feeling and a high sense of personal honor, he had acquired, apparently, an entire control over his passions ; his quiet and calm deportment indicated a contemplative and considerate iiiind'not liable tobe hurried into the adoption of Ui-adjusted plans; or to determinations which might lead to actions in discreet or ill-advised. His address was unobWusive, modest and conciliatory. He had a high regard to courtesy and pro priety, as well in respect to political conduct as in the private and social concerns of life." While in the Senate, during the stormy sessions of 1810, 'H,'12and'13, he Was the most active and influential inember of his party in that body. -Judge Piatt retained his seat upon the bench until, with his colleagues. Judges Spencer, Van Ness and Woodworth, he was " constitution alized out of office" by the constitution of 1821. Upon the re-organization of the Supreme Court, Messrs, Spencer, Piatt and Woodworth were nominated as Judges by Gov. Yates, but the Senate, for the reasons that Messrs. Spencer and Piatt had opposed some of the more lib eral features ofthe new Constitution, and were therefore ob noxious to the republican party then strongly in the ascen dant ; . and that there was a strong desire (or overruling poli cy) that new men should be placed in most of the more prominent positions,' rejected them, and John Savage and Jacob Sutherland were appointed in their place. Upon resuming his position in private life. Judge Piatt found his pecuniary affairs involvedin ruin, as a result of his devotion to his duties upon the bench. In this he was not alonoj for several of the early judges of our Supreme Court xxis,] wnriESTOwN, 793 became reduced to penury, were compeUed by their necessi ties to resign their offices, and died almost or quite in want, because of the inadequacy of their salaries. Judge Piatt returned to the bar with all the ardor and in dustry of youth, as far as possible to secure a future compe tency, and soon found a fuU flow of business. Although in his younger years, he had in his native composition a large amount of fire, he had now by the force of discipline become one of the most cool, as well as powerful and successful advo- c.ates. The confidence of juries in his candor often enabled him to bear away the palm from able yet more ardent com petitors. After a few years he removed to Plattsburgh, where he died. In the meridian of life. Judge Piatt pro fessed the reUgion of Jesus. He was a member and after wards an elder in the Presbyterian church in Whitesboro. Judge Piatt had in his employ, for a long time, a col ored man, named Dempsy Slater, who resided in Deerfield. During the time that the Rev. Mr. Carnahan preached iu Whitesboro, Slater sickened and died, and the judge accom panied Mr. Carnahan to the funeral. Scarcely a word passed between them until they had proceeded about one half the distance, when Judge Piatt, with great solemnity, remarked. ¦ I had now rather be Dempsy Slaterthan Alexander, Julius Csesar, or the greatest man who ever lived. He has been in my ser-vice several years, and never intentionally wronged mc out of a cent. He was an honest man, and a devout Chris tian, and I doubt not his happy spirit is now in Heaven. The life of such a man does more to convince me of the truth of the Christian religion than aU the books I ever read." Gen. George DooUttle was an orderly sergeant in the con tinental army of the revolutionary war. A shoemaker by trade, he carried his " kit " of tools through the whole of that 794 ANNALS OF ONEIDA GOCNTT. [CHAP. contest.' Whenever not upon a march or on duty, hewas ever ready to unpack his tools) and mend' his compatriots boots and shoes. In this 'way he earned money, which was carefully saved. With snch habits he could scarcely fail of being successful in after life. He removed to Whitestown at - an early period, and with -Ms" little capital thus obtained, sat up the tanni'ng, currying and shoe tmakingibusiness. He was the first brigadier-general of miHitia, commissionedi in the county. He was the first general overseen by the author, and with the uniform of his grade, a coat trimmed with yel low buff, and under clothes of the same, General Washington could not have shown to a better advantage in the eyes ofthe boy of eight years. The general Was a highly respectable and estimable citizen. The following obituary notice of Gen, Doolittle, published in the Utica Christu^-n Repository, ipTJila>rch, 1 825,;cPn tains many facts relating to ;his history : "DiED.^At "Whitesboro, onthe 21st of February, 182-5, /General GEpEGE Doolittle, aged, 65 years. General Doolittle was among tiie first settlers in this now rich and populous country. He -emigra ted from Middleto"Wn, Conn., the place of hi^ nativity, thirty-nine .years -ago. He lias throngh life stfstaiaed a fair moral cha.r-acter. He was distinguished as a man of profound judgment, of great inde pendence of- mind and "unbending , integrity, -.jile spent almost .si.x years of his life in the seryice of his country, during the struggle which gave birth to our independence, He'Eas'beeu elected a mem ber of the Legislature of this State,- and Tias held the o'fflfce-'of super visor in this' town' for imore than twenty yea¥s. As -k husbstad and father he waS' respected and beloved. -Hei Masileft; a beloved wife, ten children, and twentyreight grand^cj}ildreni,and,ja niitnifrpas cir^ cle of rg] ations. and friends to lament his sudden departure. He united, with the church in this place about 't'welve yeai-s since. .^le -was soon after elected bya unanimous -s'ote of the church to the of fice of Ming elder,' and'-as' such has been a- valuable Cotfn'seliof J and a-g-reai'blessing to the chUrcli,- -. - ^ - . . - XXIX.] WHITESTOWN. 795 " On Sabbath evening he attended a conference meeting, returned bome with his wife and family in perfect health, manifested much interest in the revival which exists among us at this time, and ex pressed his hope that it would extend. Before retiring he called his family together, and prayed with unusual fervor with them. He retired to rest as well as usual ; at one o'clock he was seized with an apoplectie fit ; he spoke a few words, but soon became insensible, and on tjie succeeding evening expired," Dr, Elizur Mosely was for so many years post-master at Whitesboro, that when he left the office he was the oldest post-master in the United States, He was appointed sheriff of Oneida County, January 1, 1799, and held the office until Xovember 5, 1800. In 1798, he was an assistant justice of the county court, -Thomas R, Geld was an eminent lawyer, and as an advo cate, for many years, stood at the head of his profession in the eounty, and indeed central New York,' He represented this district in Congress in 1810, '11, '12 and '13, and such were his habits of industry there, that it was said of him, that be was the last to retire and the first up in the morning, of any member of that body. He was elected to the State Senate in 1796, and held the office four years, and in 1800 he was chosen a member of the councU of appointment. His opportunities, as an early settler, with his untiring assiduity, enabled him to accumulate a handsome fortune. He was liberal and public spirited. After the erection of the first Presbyterian meeting house dn 1803, it became necessary to level the ground around it. On this occasion, Mr. Gold drove the oxen attached to the plow, while Judge Piatt and several others, unused to the employment, used the spade and shovel. During Mr, Carnahan's pastorate over the united ..societies of " Whitestown and Old Fort Schuyler," he preached 790 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. a portion of the time on Lord's-day, in the morning at Whitesboro, and in the afternoon at Fort Schuyler now Utica. Deacon Thurston, an eminently good man, rich in faith, yet poor in this world's goods, used to walk from Whitesboro to Fort Schuyler during the intermission, so as to lose no portion of the services of thesanctuary. Mr. Gold, witnessing the deacon's faithfulness, purchased and presented to him a good horse, saddle and bridle. William G. Tracy was among the earliest merchants in Whitesboro. He soon established the reputation of an hon est, fair dealer, and this charaeter he well sustained for a long series cf years, and Tracy's store was much resorted to on account of the probity of its proprietor. It may not be entirely uninteresting, to give a little incident to show the price of calico in the first year of the present century. In the spring of 1800, the eldest sister of the author having arrived at the age of fourteen, was presented with a new dress as a birth-day present. Her father purchased it at Tracy's, and, while being made, the house of the dressmaker was burned, and with it the new dress. Tracy's store was again resorted to, and another dress procured of the same quality as the first. In consideration of the hard fortune of the former, Mr. Tracy kindly deducted the odd pennies in the price per yard, and this circumstance enables the author to recollect the price. The first was six shillings and six pence per yard, and the second six shillings. A better and liandsomer article of calico, equally durable, can now be pur- ehased for from ten to twelve and a half cents per yard. Arthur Breese was a respectable lawyer, and for a number of years, after the organization of the county, was surrogate. ( Vide Utica.) XXIX.] WHITiESfrOWN. 797 Henry R. Storrs was not one of the earliest settlers of Whitfestown', but became one of its most prominent citizens. He was a native of the state' of Conneeti'cutj and-was a grad uate of one of its colleges. After his' removal to the county, he soon became one of the brightest ornameiuts of its baiyand for bold, commanding eloquence, stood unrivaled iri central New York. He was first judgeof the OneidaCpunty Courts for one term, and twice -represented the county ;in the House of Representatives of the United States; Ho there became acquainted with Henry Clay,' and their acquaintance soon ripened into a friendship, personal and poUtical. A few years since, while Mr. Clay was upon a visit to the western part of the sta^e, and subsequently to the -death of Judge Storrs, a committee of 'Mr. Clay's friends in the county, pre sented him with an invitation to visit the county, and pattake of their hospitalities in the city of Utica, Pre-engagements prevented an acceptance of the invitation, and in his letter so informing the committee, he took the Occasion i to advert to Judge Storrs in a most feeling and appropriate manner, A fewyears before his death. Judge Storrs removed to the city: of New York, and commenced' the practice of the la'W, In this wider sphere, he had but commenced winning and receiving the golden opinions of the city, when he was cut "down by the bursting of a blood vessel, while but in the me ridian of life, " '- • In this connection,. it may be proper to mention ^-Ephraim Webster, who, for many years, was distinguished as a member of the Onondaga nation of '-lodians, and,, for many years,- as Indian agent and interpreter. He: was born in 1752, at Hempstead, New Hampshire. In4773,with-his father,- he removed to the banks of. the- Hudstm, in this state; and,- in -1778, he enlistted-into .the army dfsthe Uiiited States.-a-nd 79i ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY- [CHAP, served to the close of the revolutionary contest. Returning to his home, he found that the quiet pursuits of agriculture were incompatible with his roving disposition and love of adveature. Furnished with a small stock of goods, he left home for the purpose of trading with the Oneidas, with whom- he had had some acquaintance during the war. This was probably in 1784, as he was present at the treaty of Fort Stanwix of this year ; and after surmounting many difficul ties in ascending the Mohawk, his partner having become discouraged and returned home, Webster located himself at Oriskany, where he established a trading house. Here he remained two years, doing a successful- business and master ing the Indian language. In the spring of 1786, he accepted an invitation from the Onondagas, to remove his goods and business to Onondaga, There he remained the remainder of hi.s life. He was adopted into the Onondaga tribe, married an Indian woman, by whom he had several children, and re- ' ceived 640 acres of land, the title to which was confirmed to him bythe state. During the Indian war of 1788-94, he- was employed, on account of his knowledge of Indian lan guage and customs, to gain intelligence in the country of the Miamis. In 1812, with the commission of captain in the militia, he proceeded to the Niagara frontier, with about 300 Onondaga warriors, under their chief La Fort, who waa elected also head war-chief of the six nations, and who fell at Chippewa. Webster acted as interpreter between General Brown and the Indians, and La Fort died in his arms. Webster died at Tuscarora in 1825, and was buried at Onondaga. For many years he conformed to the habits and dress of the Indians, to such a degree that it was difficult to distinguish him from a native. Upon one occasion, before the British had surrendered Oswego under Jay's treaty, he was suspected by an officer, at that pkce, of being a white XXIX.] WHITESTOWN. 790 man and spy, but sueh self-possession and self-command had he acquired, that although plied with liquor, and many de vices were resorted to, to throw him off his guard, he was discharged as a real Indian, After the death of his Indian ivife, he married a white woman of a very respectable family. At the period of the first settlement of Whitestown, tho Indian title had not been extinguished to any portion of the country westward ofthe " line of property," Most ofthe Oneidas, it was known, had, during the war just terminated, maintained their professions of friendship for the Americans in a consistent and honorable manner. But the fact was also well understood, that the other tribes of the six nations still felt the smart of the blows inflicted upon them at the battle of Oriskany, and by the more recent expedition of Gen. SuUivan into their country, and secretly desired an opportu nity to take vengeance upon the countrymen of those who chastised them. This rendered Judge White's position upon his removal to the Sauquoit that of a frontier settler, and re quired the exercise of much prudence and sagacity in his inter course with his red neighbors. He soon acquired their good will, and was so fortunate as to inspire them with very exalted ideas of his character and prowess. For a few years after his arrival, quite a number of the Oneidas resided at Oriskany, where an Indian clearing of more than 200 acres, now a part of the " Green Farms," had been made long before the Revo lution. The intercourse of himself and family, with this lit tle settlement was of the most friendly character, but it was marked by an incident which illustrated, it may be, the lurk- in" feeling of jealousy as well as the sentiments entertained for him by these his only neighbors. At the time Judge White's arrival, an old chief, named Haa Yerry, resided at Oriskany, who, during the war had acted 800 ANNAiS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. with the royal party, and who had been dubbed with the title of " Colonel," probably from his having 'held a commission of that grade fromthd king: - One day heoaUed upon the Judge with his wife, arid a mulatto woman belonging to him, named Lane, who acted as. hi's interpreter. After some little cbnver- satiOn,-the; Colonel interrogated the Judge with :" Are you my friend ?" "Yes," replied the Judge. " Well, then," said the Colonel, " do you believe I am your friend?-" '*' Yes, Han Yer ry," was the reply," I believe you are." The Colonel then re joined, "Well, if you are my friend, and you believe I am your friend, I Will tell you what I want, and then I shall know whether you speak true words:" " Arid what is it that you want," inquired the> Judge, ^The Colonel then pointed tb a little grandchild, the daughter of 'one of his sons, then be- tweeri two and three years old, and said : " My squaw wants to take this pappoose home with us to stay one night, and bririg her home to-morrow ; if you are my friend, you will now show me," The feelings of the grandfather at once up rose in his bosom, and the child's mother started with horror and alarm at the thought of trusting her darling prattler with the rude tenants of the forest. The question was full of interest. On the one hand, the necessity of placing un limited confidence in the savage, and entrusting the welfare and the life- of his grandchild with him; on the other, the certain enmity of a man of influence in his nation, and one who had been the open- enemy of his countrymen in their rOcerit struggle. But he made the decision with a sagacity that showed he properly estimated the character of th© per son with whom he was deali'rig, : He believed, that by placing implicit confidence in him, he should command the sense of honor which seems peculiar to the uncoritaminated Indian. He told him to take the child ; and as the mother, scai:oely .saffering it to -be parted from her. relinquished it into the XXIX.] WHITESTOWN, 801 hands of the old man's wife, he soothed her fears with his assurances of confidence in their promises. That night, how ever, was a long one ; and during the whole of next morning many and often were the anxious glances cast up the path way leading from Oriskany, if possible to discover the Indi ans and their little charge, upon their return to its home. But no Indians came in sight. ' It at length became high noon ; all a mother's fears were aroused, she could scarcely be restrained from rushing in pursuit of her loved one. But her father represented to her the gross indignity which a sus picion of their intentions would arouse in the breast of- the chief; and half frantic though she was, she was restrained. The afternoon slowly wore away, and still nothing was seen of her child. The sun had nearly reached the horizon, and the mother's heart had swollen beyond further endurance, when the forms of the friendly chief and his wife, bearing upon her shoulders their little visitor, greeted its mother's vision. If a mother reads my tale, she can tell more perfect ly that mother's feelings, as she clasped the little one once more to her bosom, and felt its warm heart pulsate to her own. The dress which the child had worn from home had been removed, and in its place, its Indian friends had substi tuted a complete suit of Indian garments, so as to com pletely metamorphose it into a little squaw. The sequel of this adventure was the establishment of a most ardent attachment and regard on the part of the Indian and his friends for the white settlers. The chUd, now Mrs, EelLs of Missouri, the widow of the late Nathaniel Eells of Whitesboro, still remembers some incidents occurring on the night of her stay in the wigwam, and the kindness of her Indian hostess." « Another anecdote pf Judge White may not be uninteres ting in this connection. An Oneida, of rath«r athletic form. 51 802 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [CIIAP. waa one day present at his house with several of his compan ions, and at length, for amusement, commenced wrestling. After a number of trials had been made, in which the chief came off conqueror, he came forward and challenged the set tler to a clinch with him. This was done in a manner, and with a degree of braggadocio, that convinced the Judge that if he refused the encounter, it would subject him to the con stant inconvenience of being broW-beaten by the Indian, and cost him the trouble of being believed a coward. In early manhood he had been a wrestler, but he had become quite corpulent, and for years unused to any athletic feats. Ho felt oonseious, however, of great personal strength, and he concluded, that even should he be thrown, yet as a choice of evils, the being thrown would be a lesser one, than the ac quiring of a character of cowardice by declining. He there fore accepted the chaUenge, and took hold with the Indian, and by a fortunate trip, succeeded almost instantly in throw ing him. As he saw him falling, in order to prevent the necessity of ever making another trial of his powers, and of receiving any new challenge, he contrived to fall with all his weight, he then constituting an avoirdupois of some 250 lbs., upon the Indian, The weight for an instant drove all breath from the poor fellow's body ; and it was some moments before he could get up. At length he slowly arose, shrugged his shoulders with ' an emphatic, ' Ugh ! you good fellow, tco much.' I need not add, that he was never afterwards chal lenged to wrestle with an Indian." — Tracy's Lectures. Judge White's opportunities in early life for obtaining an education were limited. In his manners he was somewhat rough and repulsive, yet there was more of the " milk of hu man kindness " in his heart, than he was usually accredited with, except by those intimately acquainted with him. A few incidents wiU more fully Ulustrate his character. xxix,^ ,., wiistT^^ToyyfNj,, ; . , ^03 The E^ti^ignmer of; Mr. ,gi^nfihan'8:pasJiorate . in. Whites boro, he wishing to obtain pasture? for his-, epw, caHe^d-upon Capt ! Hugh ; White, who said hejhadj none ,to -^,^,6, but ;'i|hat his fairer, the Judge,* had plenty, and ailAfi^eJ ltSr.,i^'G'a(rnahan to apply to him. He did so, and was mefe^ -vnth the ; reply, "/No! no! I hay© none to spare,: very, scant; myself." Mr- Garnahan mentioned the blunt refusal', to a neighbor, who laughingly remarked; that the Captain had given, him .the ad vice in sport, and. that'he, knew the Judge "v^ould, refuse."^ A few mornings afterwards the, Judge rode his pacing nag to Mr. Carnahan's door; and rapping with ' his whip, and upon the .appearance of Mr. Carnahan, said, "I haye alot iClpseiby you here, turn in your cow and welcome, as long- as y oif please." Upon emminationj Mr. Carnahan found .first rate pasture, with plenty of water and shade, and although suffi cient for; half a dozen, his cow was the only occupant duiing; the season. In the-fall, when Mr, Carnahan called to pay for the pasturage, the money was as abruptly refused as was the pastnre. A snmmer or two afterwards, the cow failing in her milk, Mr. G,arnahan decided to -make;beef of her. This, intention coming to the ears ofthe Judge, he rode to- Mr. Carnailian;s door as upon the former occasion, andsaid^ "'I.heaEi you are gpingto fafyour cow— too late beginning-— ypu must do the best you can — -turn her into my meadow-— and give her,a^ much corn-meal and pptatpesassho will eatA-dpn't ^e^ afraid — what you put in, you will eat out," and off he uode, without waiting for thanks. .. - ijJ -i Upon another , occasion he alsos volunteerefil his aid, -One of his neighbors had lost his horse, and i^ was not found for several weekg. As soon as the Judge heard o£ it, he rpde to the neighbor's, leading a horse, and said, 'f you have, l&st yonr horse— here is one — take him and use him uivtU you fijid 804 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [CHAP, your own — ^when you are not using him turn him into my pasture— it is near at hand." F'or a number of years, the Judge kept for his own use an easy going, stout grey horse, which in the day time was kept tied in the shade of a maple tree, near his door, so as to be ready, whenever he wished to visit his laborers. If, perchance. this should meet the eye of any who were acquainted with him and his manner of riding, it is presumed that the figure of the «ld gentleman ambling along upon the grey horse, through the streets, and around his farm in his own peculiar manner. will be brought vividly to view. The house and maple tree yet stand, while the " horse and his rider " have long since ceased fo exist. Judge White's intercourse with the Oneida Indians was most friendly. Indeed, he had been at his new home but a few months, before they proposed to him to become a member of their tribe. The Judge had the sagacity to see, at once, that policy required him to accept the proffered compliment, and a day was soon appointed for the imposing ceremony. At the day, Seanandoah, Col, Han Yerry, Good Peter, and some other chiefs and Indians appeared at the residence of the Judge, and with much pomp, circumstance and mystery, he was duly initiated into the Oneida tribe. If, by Jay's treaty, the British had not been induced to give up the posts held by them on our northern frontier, and their intrigues with the Indians had not been discontinued, his Oneida citizenship might have proved as beneficial as that of a Roman, anciently. It is not now known, that he deriyed any particular benefits from this relation, other than the friend ship of the Indians, and his share of the salmon caught at the first fishing of each season at Tegesoken (Pish Creek). The next spring after his adoption, Judge White was notified to attend the fishing at the forks of that creek. At the appointed ^^^^-] WHITESTOWN, 805 time, h.e and several of his sons, Philo the fisherman of course included, took their batteau, ascended the Mohawk to Fort Stanwix, from thence across to and down Wood Creek, up Fish Creek to the fishing ground, where the ceremonies of catching the first salmon of the season were witnessed, and after receiving the proportionate share for eaoh member of his household, returned to Whitesboro, A more particular de scription of this custom of the Oneidas wiU be found in ajiother plaee. In a few years after the arrival of Judge White, the set tlement of Whitestown had so far progressed, that it was thought advisable to organize a company of militia, and Gov. ^Jeorge 'CUnton was applied to, to commission therequisite officers. The governor informed them, that, if a company of thirty men could be mustered, commissions .should be issued tbrthwith. The names of the required number were soon procured, and with the advice of Col, Staring, who com manded the regiment to -shich the company was to be at tached, the names for the commissions were, forwarded, ¦WnUiam Colbrath, previously a resident of Herkimer, but who had removed within the beat of the company, was cap tain, bnt the name ofthe lieutenant cannot now be ascertained. Judge White was anxious that his son, Hugh, should receive the ensign's commission, but Col. Staring, who was well acquainted with the sons, said, " No, no, Hugh is not de poy ; Daniel is de poy !" and Daniel C, received the commission, Daniel C. died early some tume previously to 1800. He had, however, lived to receive a colonel's commission, and commanded a regiment of militia, which met in Whitesboro. He was the father of the Hon. Fortune C. White, a man of prominence in the county, and who has been brigadier-gen eral, member of Assembly and first judge. He now resides at Yonkers, upon the Hudson river. ^6 ' ANNALS OF ONEIDA 'COUNtY. [cHAP. The first persotowhd died in Whitestown was Mrs. BlaeKsly, who resided with and was the aunt of Judge White. She was interred in the'orch'ard noW owned by Harvey Bradley, The authoif has' been unable to ascertain the time of her death;' but' it was within a very few years after the fiifst ar rival of Judge White.' • " The first child 'bbrn- in' th-e town, or indeed of Yankee parentage in the county,' was Esther White, daughter of Daniel C, White, who was born in 1785, She was after wards the'Wife of the' Hon, Henry R, Storrs, whom she still survives', ' ' INDIANS. It has heeti ineideri tally mentioned, that a branch of the Oneida tribe of Indians resided at Oriskany. When Judge White'Settled in' Whitestown, they occupied six Itfdges or vii^^kms.' Col, Han Yerty resided in a log cabin, which 'stood just back ofthe hotise formerly occupied by Mr, Charles Green, on the' easterly side of the ''Oriskany' Creek, The other five cabins siood on the westerly side of the' creek. Col, Han Yerry had two sons, Cornelius and Jacob, and one daughter, l)olly, who mariied orie of the Denny family at Oneida, Hendrick Smith, who afterwai'ds lived in the south part of Vernon at the Indian orchard, was the head of one bf the families on the west side of the creiek, Corrielius, lliti Yerry 's eldest son, has been mentioned, as the avenger o^ blood, in'tlie'histdry'of' Augusta, ' Col, Han Yerry, as isefpre stated, iri 'the Revolution es poused the' eanse ' ef "th'e king, A feW months after the *arri¥^l of Judge White at Whitesboro, his son Philo called at the colonel's house at Oriskariy, btit found -that'the family XXIX,] WHITESTOWN. 807 were all absent, except the colonel's wife. After talking awhile upon various subjects, the woman proceeded to remove the bunk and bedding from one corner of the room, and then taking up a portion of the floor brought to light a ten-gaUon keg, which she soon unheaded. This keg was fiUed witli ¦silver plate, which she carefully took out, piece by piece, and exhibited to her guest. Some of the articles were very val uable, and among them was a heavy and highly ornamented silver tankard. After thus showing the ware, it was care fully returned to its hiding-place. In looking about the room, Philo counted eight brass and copper kettles, of vari ous sizes, and about the premises were many kinds of farm ing utensils. As Mr, White was subsequently passing down the Mohawk, he called at th« public house kept by the widow of Gen, Herkimer ; and, in conversation with the widow, he mentioned the keg of silver plate, and particularly the mas sive tankard, describing many of its ornaments. From this description, the widow, at once, recognized it as one which had been pillaged from her house during the war. It is probable, that the plate, kettles and agricultural implements were plundered from the suffering inhabitants of the valley ofthe Mohawk, The precise year in which the Indian settlement at Oris kany was broken up, or whether they all left at the same time, has not been ascertained ; but it is certain that they all left previously to 1793, ¦RELIGIOUS SOCIETIES. On the 1st of AprU, 1793, a meeting was held to take measures for organizing a religious society, and Thomas R, 808 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Gold,' Aaron Clark, George Doolittle, Jonas Piatt, Stephen Potter, Joseph Root, Reuben Wilcox and David Williams were appointed a committee to draft a constitution. This committee,. doubtless, performed their duty, but the result of their labor is lost. The society, by the style of " The United Presbyterian Societies of Whitestown and Old Fort Schuyler," was in corporated shortly after and the following persons were elected its first trustees, viz. ; Jonas Piatt, Joseph Root. Thomas R. Gold, Amos Wetmore, David Williams, John Post, Elizur Mosely, Stephen Potter, Enoch Story, Reuben Wilcox, Arthur Breese, Erastus Clark and SUas Clark. Part of the trustees resided at each place, Messrs. Post, Potter, E. Clark, and perhaps others at Old Fort Schuyler. At the close of half a century, from the formation of the church, the Rev, Walter R, Long, then its pastor, preached two sermons appropriate to the occasion. The " concluding reflections " contain such a condensed and beautiful history of the church, that they are given entire, with a few slight omissions ; '• In closing this historical research, mingled emotions cf gratitude, love and praise, have been inspired by the review. We have learned that more than half a century since, when this country was comparatively new, some of the flrst settlers organized themselves into a reUgiou& and ecclesiastical so ciety ; called a pastor, the Rev, Bethuel Dodd, who was set tled over them, August 20th, 1794, This was the first Pres byterian church west of Albany. Fourteen persons were received into the communion, January 1st, 1795. The first house of worship was dedicated in 1804, and the pastor's funeral attended in it a few weeks after. Three houses of worship have been erected by the united societies, two in Whitesboro and one in Utica, at an expense of more than ^¦'^^^¦1 WHITESTOWN. 809 % 15,000, Five pastors have officiated successively in this church, two of whom have gone to their rest. Statistical facts furnish ample occasion for gratitude and praise. This ehurch commenced with fourteen members. About 800 have been added by profession, 317 by letter. Total 1,117. 491 have been dismissed to other churches, to form new ones. Sixty-four have died whUe conneeted with tbe chureh, and thirty have been excluded. Ten revivals of religion have been enjoyed, some of which, were of great, power and, inte rest. They are like so many verdant spots, upon which the eye looks back with inexpressible delight. Though numeri cally this church is not as large as in the palmiest days of its prosperity, when, in 1832, it, numbered 393, stiU its members are more numerous, than in the days, of Messrs, Dodd and Carnahan, and for some years, after Rev, Mr. Frost was set tled over this-church. There were 133 on the catalogue at the elose of the fiftieth year since the church, was formed, while there were but 129 members-connected with the united chnrch of Whitestown and Utica, at the time of the amicable division in 1813. When Mr, Frost was settledj over this church, there were only about fifty members living in the vil lage of Whitesboro, and of these only four were male mem bers. The society was feeble. There was no separate or ganization as long as Mr, Carnahan remained.^ There were only, five male members in Utica; but there wew some twelve or more active, intelligent, pious females, and through their influence the Gospel was introduced and maintained- When Mr, Dodd was settled here, Utica was hardly in ex istence, and formed no part of his charge. As it increased, he preached there occasionally, perhaps once a month, and then once in two weeks, and before his death one-half the time. Thus we see that from the grain of spiritual seed sown here more than fifty years since, a large tree has grown 810 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [uHAP, up, beneath whose branches, hundreds, nay thousands, have sat and been refreshed with the dews of Heaven, This is properly the parent church of four separate eeelesiastieal or ganizations around it, which number in the aggregate several hundred communicants. Thus the parent tree has been an nually scattering its foliage and sowing its seed, to make glad the wilderness and cause the desert to rejoice. Thus it i.=i with the handful of corn, and thus it is with the Gospel seed sown in God's moral vineyard. About 1000 are conneeted with the branches of this church. They are for the, most part furnished with spacious and commodious houses of wor ship, " We cannot but admire the spirit of self-denial and noble- hearted benevolence of the pioneers of Whitestown, aind that of their children upon whom their mantles have fallen. For God's providential care let us make suitable expressions uf gratitude. From the history of the past, may we not, after the expiration of fifty years, set up our Ebenezer, a half-cen tury memorial of the watchful guardianship of a kind Pro vidence, and inscribe apon it, ' Hitherto has the Lord helped it.' " The five pastors alluded to were Bethuel Dodd, James 'Carnahan, John Frost, Ira Pettibone, David S. Ogden. The Rev. Bethuel Dodd came to Whitestown and preached in the public house of Goi. Daniel C. White, August 20th, 1794, His text was Acts x, 29, " I ask therefore for what intent ye have sent for me ? " He was ordained by the -Presbytery of Albany in an arbor formed near where the court house now stands, upou which occasion the Rev, Mr, McDonald preached, Mr, Dodd died April 12th, 1804. The Rev. James Carnahan was next called, and was or- ,dained January 2d, 1805. On account of iU health, and by the united request of himself and society he was dismissed, xxix,] WHITESTOWN, 811 October 25th, 1812, The Rev, Mr, Carnahan is now presi dent of Nassau Hall, New Jersey. Rev, John Frost was called November 4th, 1812, and was ordained March 17th, 1313, and wa's dismissed on account of having been appointed general agent for the Oneida Institute, February 5th, 1833, Mr. Frost afterwards was settled at Waterville, and died in Whitesboro. December 16th, 1833, a call was given the Rev, Ira Pettibone, who was ordained February 4th, 1834, and was dismissed at his own request, February 3d, 1836, The Rev, David S, Ogden received a, call and was installed December 28, 1836, dismissed on his own request October 3d, 1841, The Rev, Walter R, Long, the present pastor, was installed February 20th, 1845, The first meeting house was ereeted in 1803, and dedicated in 1804, The text of the dedication sermon was Psalms cxivii, 20, " the Lord hath not dealt so 'with any nation,'' The house was sixty by for ty-five feet, and cost $ 4,508,45, The present brick church was erected in 1834, and dedicated in the fall uf the same year. Rev, Mr, Aiken, of Utica, preaching upon the occasion. Costs 5, 105, The four churches that have been formed from this churcli are the following: February 3d, 1813, the church was divi ded, and fifty-seven members set off to the Utica church, March 18th, 1830, forty-four members were dismissed to form a church at New York Mills, The chureh at New York Mills now numbers 342 communicants. In 1832, the ehurch at Oriskany was formed, taking fifty members from this body. December 26th, 1837, fifty-nioe persons with drew, and formed a Congregational Church in Whitesboro. It is believed, that the subject of slavery had much to do with this last secession. Mr. Long, in his half century ser mon, says, " of this secession he would record as little as pos sible. The historian, who shall preach a centennial discourse 312 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. a half century hence, will.be able to give a more impartial account of the whole matter, when the parties acting in it shall have been saved by grace.'' The Congregational socie ty have erected a small but convenient house of worship. Abolitionism has more troubled this Presbyterian chureh and society than any other in the county-" If the foUowing resolution passed by the session, December Ilth, 1835, had been adhered to, much trouble might have been saved. " Resolved, That light and love, free remonstrance, and frequent suppUcation to God, are the weapons of our warfare against slavery. We believe it our duty, perseveringly to use such weapons while a vestige of it is left, and these we believe will be niighty through God, to the demolishing its strong-holds. We do, therefore, earnestly recommend to the brethren of this church, to treat this subject in such a man ner as shall convince men that in all their measures they are prompted by pure benevolence, a regard for the best inter ests of master andslave, and that their reliance is upon Him who heareth praycK, and who regards the rights of the poor." In 1796, the Rev. Stephen Parsons, a Baptist Minister of 3IiddletowB, Connecticut, having many acquaintances and ,some relatives in the '¦' Whitestown country " visited the place. During this, visit he baptised five persons. In June 'if the same year he revisited the place, an dthe five individuals whom he had baptised during his first visit, with two others, met at the house of Caleb, Douglass, on the 18th of June, 1:796; and after spending a part of the day in prayer and conversation, entered into covenant with each other to. walk together as a ohurch of Christ, Elder Parsons being pres ent gave them the hand of fellowship as a Christian church. The transaction was one of great simplicity, and was very much in accordance with primitive usage. Elder Parsons, having been instrumental in organizing the church, was sO: ^^IX.] WHITESTOWN. '813 licited by many persons to remove, and settle in the place as a minister, and in September of the same year he arrived with his family. In the December foUowing, the church ex tended him an invitation to become their pastor, whioh was accepted. This was the first Baptist Church organized in .the county of Oneida, and Elder Parsons the first Baptist ininister. Among the number' first baptised, was Caleb Douglass, an excellent man, and the chureh eleeted him their clerk, and their first deacon. During several years the chureh increased in numbers and influence, gradually and slowly, Whitesboro was at this time the centre of influence to a wide extent of eountry, and this church was for several years the spiritual home of Baptist members, living in many towns around. Beginning with seven members, it had at the end of five years increased to forty-nine. This brings us to a period when other churches began to be formed in the new and sparse settlements of the surrounding country. In 1801. -six member,s were dismissed, to join with others in forming a eliurch in the town of Steuben, and in October of this year a council fellowshipped a church there of sixteen members. In these early days the churches, in the language of the times, "kept open doors " for the improvement of the gifts of their members, and they were accustomed to exhort one an other, and those who met with them to seek " the pearl of .great price." Deacon Douglass, as he was then known, was frequently amid the destitution of that early day, called upon to conduct public worship, and was finally approved by the church as a minister of the gospel. He was publicly ordained January 7th, 1802, by a council called from the first and second churches in Hamilton, first and second in Litchfield, and the churches in Paris, Sangerfield, Steuben and Schuy ler, In December following, Elder Parsons resigned his pastoral charge, and on the 14th of January, 1803, Elder 814 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. J^CHAP, Douglass was invited to the pastorate thus made vacant, and the invitation was accepted in May following. In March. 1803, six members were dismissed to unite in forming a church iii Westmoreland. In May, of the latter year, Elder Parsons took a letter of dismission and removed to Mexico, in what was then called the " Black River Country." It must bo borne in mind that the town of Mexico at this time covered a large portion of Jefferson, Lewis and Oswego Counties, and a considerable section of Oneida. Elder Parsons was a laborious and useful minister in the new settlements upon the Black River until 1820, when, from the effects of a faU in his barn, he died. He was pastor of this church six years. ¦ The first mention of any method for the support of the Gosi^el is in June, 1814. A committee was then appointed to draw up and circulate a subscription for that purpose. The late Dr. Charles Babcock, of New Hartford, was a member of that eommittee. In May, 1815, Elder Elon Galusha was with the church for the first time. The first Lord's-day in September is mentioned as a pecu liarly interesting day. Elders Galusha and John Peck and ninety members being present at the com-munion. In May, 1816, Elder Douglass requested to be released from the responsibilities of the pastoral ofl5*e. He had been pastor thirteen years, in which seVonty-one persons had united with the church by baptism. Upon the first Lord's- day, in March preceding. Elder Galusha had been received us a member of the church, and in May he became its pastor. The years 1815, '16 and '17 were years of much religious interest, during which sixty-five were admitted by baptism ; and in 1820, it is inferred that a powerful revival was expe rienced, as seventy-three persons were admitted by that ordi- XXIX,]' wurrBSTOWN. 815 naaoo. This is the largest namber ever req^ved iato the chuitih in one year, with the esceptioa of 1838.; . . In Decem'berj 1817, a coiumuI waa caUed tareopgnixe.thc ohurch in Bome, as arsgulu-lj orgauixed Baptist Qhurch. Another was called in IS 18, to organise a church in the north part of Westmorelahd.' -¦•¦< In the years 1825,^6 and '27 there- were large additions hy baptismsi In August, 1827, Elder Douglass and &mi^' were dis missed from the church, and removed to Gorham, Ontario County. • ' In the springof 1831, Elder Galusha resigned th^ pastoral charge, whioh he had held for fifteen years. His ministry had been succe^ul, and the church had become a leading one, and exerted a wide; influence. Elder Galusha was suc ceeded immediately hy the Rev. A, L. GoviU, who was a successful and laborious pastor and minister. He was the son of the Rev. Lemuel CoviU, who died on the £eld of his labors as a missionary in Canada, Elder A, L,, CoviU was pastor nearly si^ years, when he suddenly terminated this relation, and removed to Albany, aud keeame the pastor of the first church in that city. After laboring in that ohurch a faw years, hia earthly stewardship was dosed, aud he caUed to receive the reward of a £iithfal minister, ¦ The church, after a saUsfoctory trial, settled as its next pas tor the Rev., Giessen P. Sheldon, He was young, and this was his first settlement. He commenced his labors in 1837, and ended them in 1843. Daring his mimstry large addi tions were made to the church upon pro&ssiw. of &ith. In i SoS, eighty-two persons were received by baptism, the J^^ trest number ever received in any year. In September, ISiS, Mr. Sheldon resigned his connection with the church as pas tor. During his labors here he acquired the reputation of- a 816 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. good man, conscientiously and ardently devoted to the service of Christ. He afterwards became pastor of a church in Ham ilton, and at this time is pastor of a flourishing church in Buf falo. Immediately upon his resignation, the Rev. Jireh D. Cole received, and accepted a call from the church to become its pastor. He eontinued his labors until May, 1848, when he resigned. In 1849, Mder Samuel* R. Shotwell was pas tor, but in 1850 and '51, no pastor was reported, the church having been supplied by several preachers. Since the most of this work was printed. Elder WilUam Clark of Cazenovia has accepted a call to become pastor of this chureh, and will enter upon his duties in ¦October of this year (1851). From the organization of the church in 1796 until July 1846. a period of fifty years, 752 members had been received intoit.» fellowship by baptism, and 43 1 by letter, making a total of 1 183 members. Of this number, 626 had been dismissed tfv other churches. According to the minutes ef the annual .session ofthe Oneida Baptist Association, held in -September. 1 846, this church then had 260 members. Within the suc ceeding five years, up to September, 1851, the church has re ceived forty-nine by baptism, and dismissed 123, by letter, to other churches, many of the latter having united with ,the newly formed church at Walesville. Present number of communicants 154. The church during the first half century of its existence had six pastors, viz: Elders Parsons, Douglass, Galusha. Co- vill, Sheldon and -Cole. They were all good men, with rep utations unblemished, and of exemplary lives. Three of them have completed their labors upon earth, viz ; Elders Parsons. Douglass and Covill, while the remaining three are yet ac tively engaged in the ministry. The church has been great ly blessed in her pastors. It has had also, for short periods, the services of Elijah F. WUley, Eleazar Savage, Calvin G. XXIX.] WHITESTOWN. 817 Carpenter, Demas Robinson and some others. The church has received by baptism the foUowing persons, who have en tered the ministry, viz : Elders Douglass, Lathrop, Howard, Carpenter, Bronson, Curtiss, Kingsley and Gross. Rev. MUes Bronson, a member of this church, has been for many years past a missionary in Burmah. Probably there are few churches whioh have enjoyed more uninterrupted pros perity for fifty years ; few that have enjoyed more " refresh ings from the presence of the Lord ;" few that have been as free from unhappy divisions and discord. It has sent out into the world a large representation, (626 having been dis missed by letter), a goodly number who have gone to aid in the formation of other churches, and to labor for the promo tion of the kingdom of the Redeemer. Of fifty years, there were but seven in which the church was not enlarged by ac cessions upon profession of faith and baptism. The house of worship now occupied by the church and so ciety is the third erected upon the same ground. The first was removed and converted into a dweUing, because too large ; the second was removed and formed into a store, because too smaU; the third now occupied is a neat and comfortable house of worship, sufficiently large for the necessities of the society. Of a truth the site is a place where prayer has been wont to be made from the beginning. In view of the history of the church its friends may well say with adoring gratitude, 'what hath God wrought." Sl. Peter's (Episcopal) Churcli, Oriskany. — The Rev. Wil Uam A. Matson, missionary. There are forty families eon nected with this church, and thirty-five communic»its. The date of its formation has not been ascertained, stiU it is known tobe among the oldest and influential societies of the denom ination in the county. 'i 818 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CIIAP. St. John's [Episcopal) C/iwrc/*, Whitestown, has also the services of the Rev, William A, Matson, missionary. This body is comparatively in its infancy, having been organized but about ten years. It has a congregation of twenty-five families, and numbers twenty-two communicants, Walesmlle Baptist Chvrcli.. — Within, the year 1850, a Baptist church was constituted at Walesville, in Whitestown, and Peckville (in Westmoreland), It has erected a small but neat house for public worship, equi-distant between those two villages. It stands on the east side of the Oriskany Greek, within the limits of Whitestown. In September, 1851, this church reported Elder John M. Shotwell as its pastor, and forty-nine communicants. There is a large and respectable society of Episcopal Mclh,- odists in the village of New York Mills. They have a com modious house for public worship, and have exerted a wide spread and healthful influence ever since the commencement of the flourishing village where the society is located. There is a smaller society of Methodists witli a house for worship, located in the westerly part of the town, near Col man's Mills. It is a part of the charge of the clergymen lo cated at Westmoreland, As will be seen, by reference to the introductory chapter, in 1784, at the time of the arrival of Judge White, Mont gomery County included all of this State west of Albany Co. ; and that by the law of 1788, dividing the town of German Flats, and forming Whitestown as one of the towns of Mont gomery County, this town was bounded on the east by a line crossing the Mohawk River, " at the fording place near^ and XXIX.J WHITESTOWN. 8 19 the east side of the house of William Cunningham," and run ning north and south to the north and south bounds of the State, and including all of the State west of that line. Wil liam Cunningham's house stood nearly upon the site of the store of Stephen Comstock, upon the west side of Genesee St., and about equi-distant from Whitesboro and Water Sts. It can not at this time be ascertained with precision how many white inhabitants were within the town at the time of its organization, but the number has generally been estima ted at less than 200. The obituary notice of Judge White. published in Spaffm-d's Gazetteer of New York for 1813. says, "Whitestown then (1788) contained less than 200 in habitants,"^ a territory, which " according to the census of ISIO, now contains 280,319 inhabitants." In the winter of the year previously (1787), there were but f^even houses within the present limits of Whitestown, five at Rome, three at Oriskany, three at Utiea and three in West moreland, all log cabins, small and cheaply constructed. Neither can the population ofthe original territory of Whites- town when formed, be ascertained from the census of 1850, a^ the before mentioned east line intersects several counties, and a portion even of the present territory of Oneida County lies ou.«t ofit — but the author believes his estimate within bounds when he places it at 1,400,000. This is rather a formidable population of a township of but about sixty years' growth. In the first years of its settlement its location was any thing but inviting, and none but Yankees would have sought here quiet homes for themselves and families. In the common language of those in New England who had children or friends settled here "they had gone way up among the Indians, in the Whitestown country," and but a few years later the Dutch aud the " dimocrats " of York State were bugbears, almost as formidable and equally as wicked as the "heathen ing-ins." 820 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. The author well knew a good woman (for she was his mother), who, after a residence of several years in this section, returned to her native place in Connecticut, to visit her aged mother. The aged woman, among other objections to a residence in this state, stated to the daughter that there were, as she was told, " many democrats up in York State, and she did'nt see how a democrat could ever go to heaven." The first town meeting in Whitestown was held at the barn of Needham Maynard, Esq., upon the road leading from Whitesboro to Middle Settlement. The eastern limits of Whitestown remained the same until the formation of Oneida County, in 1 798, when they were ex tended eastwardly some two miles to the present eastern boun dary of the city of Utica, upon the Herkimer Gounty line. Whitestown has been a halfshire town of Oneida County since May, 1802, the county courts having previously been held at Rome. During 1802, they were held at Whitestown, and subsequently the terms (three in each year, in May, Sep tember and December), were held alternately at the two places, beginning at Whitestown in May, 1803. In the minutes of the December term ofthe common pleas for 1801, it appears thatthe court were then informed by G. G. Brodhead, Esq., sheriff, that the jail in Whitestown had been completed, and that the prisoners from this county had been removed from the Herkimer jail to the new jail, and an order was accor dingly entered that the next term of the court be held " at the school house near the jail in Whitestown.'' By an act passed April 2, 1806, the board of supervisors was author ized to raise $4,000, to build two court houses, one at Rome and one at Whitesboro, and they were soon afterwards erect ed. As previously stated, the first term of a court of record ever held within the limits of the county, was held in the meeting house in New Hartford (then Whitestown), on the XXIX.] WHITESTOWN, 821 third Tuesday (21st) of January, 1794, Present, Henry Staring, Jedediah Sanger, Wm, Feeter and Amos Wetmore, judges and justices, William Colbrath, sheriff. Judge Staring continued in office until after the erection of Oneida County, but soon after resigned. As would have been more appropriately stated upon the preceding page in the history of the Presbyterian Church, the settlement of Whitesboro had become so well established, that in 1786, the inhabitants had formed a religious society. This was in accordance with the sentiments and usages of the pilgrims. This society employed the Rev, Dr, Hillyer of Orange, New Jersey, as its pastor and spiritual guide. Very soon in the history of Whitestown and the other por tions of the county settled by emigrants from New England, these ambitious, energetic and persevering Yankees began to exert an influence and acquire a controlling power over the less active inhabitants residing lower down the Mohawk, The author has not learned, that these Yankees held any of the prominent offices while Whitestown was a part of Mont gomery County, but as soon as Herkimer County was organ ized, they seem to have claimed, and in some way taken the ¦• lion's share," and this is not here mentioned boastingly or approvingly, but as historic truth. The few scattered set tlers liable were warned to '' appear armed and equipped as the law directs for mUitary duty " at Herkimer, and for two nr three years, and those only, were they kept by the Dutch men at the hft of the company. Soon, however, they claim ed and took, whether in the minority or majority, the right of tl^e company and regiment, and with it a good share of the offices. This illustrates the spirit whieh characterized the first settlers of Oneida County, and also the difference between them and their seniors upon the Mohawk. And if the Yankees took the lead of the Dutch, the settlers of 822 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Whitestown took the lead of their brethren in Paris, West moreland, Rorae, Floyd, Sangerfield and Steuben, and in this their talents, wealth and circurastances favored them. Upon the organization of Herkimer County in 1791, Jonas Piatt of Whitestown, was appointed clerk, and soon after. Judge AVhite was appointed county judge, and previously to 1794, Jedediah Sanger was appointed a judge. In 1794 (and may be earlier), Arthur Breese was deputy clerk, and to most in tents and purposes, the clerk's office was kept in Whitesboro instead of Herkimer. In 1794 and '95, Jedediah Sanger was sole member of Assembly from Herkimer Gounty. In 1796, Jedediah Sanger, and in 1798, Thomas R. Gold, were elected senators for four years, and in 1797, Messrs. Isaac Brayton, Arthur Breese and Henry McNiel were member.? of Assembly. In the winter of 1798, before Oneida County was organized, Jedediah Sanger and Hugh White were judges; Jona-s Piatt, clerk; William Colbrath, sheriff; and Henry McNiel und Nathan Smith, members of Assembly, of Herkimer County. In 1794, Amos Wetmore, Needham Maynard and Elizur Moseley of Whitestown ; Alexander Parkman and Ephraim Blackmer, of Westmoreland; Moses Foot and David Ostrom, of Paris ; Ebenezer Wright and Jedediah Phelps, of Steuben; and Edward Paine, Seth Phelps, Samuel Sizer and probably some others within the present limits of Oneida Gounty, were assistant justices and justices ofthe peace. There were doubtless other offices held by Yankees, while this section was in Herkimer County. Upon the organization of Oneida Gounty in 1798, Jededi ah Sanger, Hugh White and David Ostrom were appointed judges ; William Colbrath, sheriff ; Jonas Piatt, Clerk ; Thomas R. Gold, district attorney; Arthur Breese, surro gate; Messrs. Sanger and Gold were senators ; David Ostrom and Henry McNiel, were elected members of Assembly ; all 'fSIX.] WHITESTOWN. 823 of whom resided in Whitestown ; whUe James Dean of West moreland and George Huntington of Rome, judges, and Abel French, member of Assembly, were the only recipients of the spoils in other sections of the county. Many of these retain ed their offices for considerable periods {vide Usts of judges, clerks, attorneys, etc). James Cochran (mentioned in his tory of Utica) was member of Congress, from this district in 1798: Col. Benjamin Walker, in 1800; Thomas R. Gold, !?04: Wm. Kirkpatrick, 1806; Nathan WiUiams, 1808: Thomas R. Gold, 1810, '12 ; Morris S- MUler, 1814 ; Henry R. Stoors, 1816, '18 and '24; Joseph Kirkland, 182-.^. Judge Sanger was elected senator from this district in 1 SOO ; Henry Huntington, in 1804; Wm. Floyd, 1807: Francis A. Bloodgood, in 1808, '12 ; Jonas Piatt, in 1809 ; Henry Sey mour, in 1815 ; Ephraim Hart, in 1816 and 1820; besides from one to half a dozen others in each year as vacancies occurred, from other sections of this, then the great western .senate district. In 1800, T. R. Gold was chosen a member of the Council of Appointment. Fromthe Western '•'• Centinel]' pubUshed at '• Whitestown," of September, 1 795, the foUowing Whitestown advertisements are taken, showing the business men, and the kinds of trade and business carried on at that early day : " Kyte & Stark weather -wiU pay the cash for any quantity of good clean Salts of Lye Whitestown, Aug. 31, 1795." Thomas R. Gold offers for sale 7 lots in the MUitary Tract, 6^ lots in the "4th Town of the 20 Townships," and "9,180 acres in the 7th Tonmship, 4th Range, Genesee." " To be let, a Farm upon Bowen's Creek, near Esqr. Sayle's, in German- town. Enquire of Wm. Green." " Save your Flax Seed! An Oil MUl wiU, without doubt, be erected in the course of a few months, if duly encouraged by the several gentlemen in the vicinity of Whitestown. who it may benefit." " Far Sale^ 824 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP, the Dwelling-House and Farm, situate on the New Genesee Road in Whitestown, lately occupied by Enoch Grannis, being an excellent stand for a Tavern and Store, Enquire of T. R, Gold, Att'y, or Thomas Jenkins & Sons," " WanT-ed A GOOD faithful Man to attend a Saw Mill on Oriskany Creek, Apply to the Subscriber at Col, D, G, White's, in Whitestown, Wm, Green," "John Russell, Windsor Chair Maker, has established his business a few rods west of the Meeting House in Whitestown," '¦ Wanted Immediately, an active Boy, as an Apprentice to the Tay- loring Business, Joseph Blake," " To be Sold, a Farm in Whitestown, lying on the great road leading from Old Fort Schuyler to the Genesee River, containing 100 acres, 40 acres improved, and Framed House and Barn, Jed'h San ger," Boardman & Dewey occupy nearly a column with an invoice of their Stock in Trade, among which are " Cloths, Cassiraers, Yorkshire Plains, Thicksets, Shalloons, Durants, Plain Black Galimanco, Striped Do,, Black Russell, Tabor- etts, Bandanno Hdkfs,, Black Mode, Wildbore, Rattinetts, Men's and Women's Buckles," &c, &c, ; among articles for male and female wearing apparel, and among the miscellanies are " Brass Nubs, Raizors, Iron Dogs, Franklin Stoves, Hard Soap, Drawn Boot Legs, Felt Hats, W. I. Rum, Rub- stones, Bibles, Spelling Books," &c. &c. ; and they announce to " their customers in general, that they have removed their Store from the house of Mr. Caleb Douglass to their new Store at a place formerly known as Pool's Landing," and that they "will receive in payment Wheat, Rye, or Barley: Money wUl not be refused. Whitestown, July 27, 1795." " Webster's SpeUing Book for sale at the Printing Office," " Fulling Mill. Notice is hereby given to the Public, that the Subscriber is about to erect a Fulling Mill in the town of Spipio, and county of Onondaga, where he designs to XXIX,] WHITESTOWN. 825 carry on the Clothiers Busiiiess in all its various branches. by a weU-informed workman in said business, &c. Amaziah Hutchinson." Salt. — The information contained in the foUowing extracts from the journal of the Committee of Safety of this State in the Revolution, was new to the author, and is believed to possess interest sufficient to warrant its publication; but this is all that he has learned respecting the subject It is found under date of February 7, 1777. The committee appointed to devise ways and means for manufacturing salt within the state, produced a sample of salt " made of the water of certain springs at Oriskie (Oris kany), about ten mUes to the eastward of Fort Schuyler (Stanwix), and reported that from information, it appears to the committee that nine gallons of water will make two quarts of salt." " Resolved, that said eommittee devise ways and means to make further experiments, in order to ascertain the quality of said water at Oriskie, and if they are of the opinion that salt can be manufactured with advantage, that they proceed, without delay, to procure materials and employ proper per sons to carry on the same." x MANUFACTUEES. New York Mills. — The " upper nulls " of this company be ing in the town of New Hartford are noticed in the history of that town. 826 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. The New York Mills, for the manufacture of cotton goods, may well be reckoned as among the pattern factories of the Empire State. The manufacturing is carried on in two large stone buildings, to which are attached a machine shop, offices, shops, store, out-buildings, all in the most neat and complete order. System is manifest in its every department. Twen ty-five thousand yards of 4-4 superfine sheetings are manu factured weekly. It employs 325 operatives in and about the premises. Forty bales of cotton of 430 lbs, each are used weekly. About S 1,250 are paid in that time for labor. It gives employ to twelve machinists. Machinery of the latest and most perfect models is constantly taking the place of that which perhaps but a few years before was considered at the height of perfection. The Oneida Factory. — This mill is a large substantial stone building with office, shops, boarding houses, etc., con neeted. It manufactures 20,000 yards of 4-4ths sheetings per week, with 160 operatives, and pays $350 weekly for labor. Villages. — Whitesboro has one of the handsomest loca tions in the county. It is a level plain of sand and gravel, elevated a few feet above the Mohawk Flats adjoining. The village contains a considerable number of handsome dwellings, three taverns, two dry goods stores, two grocery and pro vision stores, the Whitestown post office, the bank of Whites- town, Presbyterian, Baptist and Congregational houses for worship, and various mechanics. Although situated upon the Erie Canal and Syracuse and Utiea RaU-road, its loca tion but four miles from the city of Utica, is at this day an unfortunate one. For a considerable number of years from XXLX.] WHITESTOWN. 827 its commencement, it was ahead of Utica in population and business ; but whUe its neighbor has become a city, Whites boro has for the last twenty-five years but sustained its pre- ¦vious size. The court-house, although it is stiU nominally the half-shire of the county, is not now used for courts, and as a court-ho'ose and jail are now in the course of erection at Utica, the court-house and jail at this place will soon be useless as such. The inhabitants early bethought themselves to orna ment their streets with elms and other forest trees, which have now become large and almost venerable iu their appear ance, and add greatly to the beauty of the place. It is a quiet, lovely village, and no more desirable plaee for a vil lage residence can be found in the county. The denomina tions having houses for worship, have ever sustained excel lent pastors. Just below the viUage is what was formerly the " Oneida Institute " of Science and Industry, under the patronage of the Presbyterians ; but an unfortunate abolition difficiUty arose, and the institution which had flourished for a time, decUned, and at length was purchased by the Free will Baptists, who have now a very flourishing and valuable school. The institution occupies three large commodious buildings of wood, with a small farm attached. There is also in the vUlage an academy in a fair condition. Few places of the size can be found which could boast of such an array of men of talent as Whitesboro, the most conspicuous of whom were Jonas Piatt, Thomas R. Gold, Theodore Sill, Henry R. Storrs, -Fortune C. White, and, for a short time, Samuel A. Talcott. These were prominent namesf not only in central New York, but throughout the state, and a portion of them were not unknown to fame in our national legislature. New York Mills. — It is but little more than a quarter of a century since the plat of this village was used for agricul- 828 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. tural purposes. The erection by Benjamin Marshall, an English capitalist, of the extensive cotton manufacturing establishment, known as the New York Mills, gave the first impulse to the plaee. It now contains between 1,500 and 2,000 inhabitants. It contains Methodist and Presbyterian houses for worship. Although manufacturing of cotton is the great business of the village, still it has a full share of mer chants and mechanics, and a temperance tavern. The statistics of these mills are given in another place. New York Mills post-offiee is located here. Yorkville is a small village hardly separated from the New York Mills Village, except by the Oneida Factory, and the dwellings and other buildings attached to it. Here are a public house, a grist and fiouring mill and a saw mill. Oriskany. — This village is situate at the confluence of the Oriskany Greek and Mohawk River. This was one of the earliest settled places in the county, and probably contained the first merchant ever located in it. That merchant was the late Abraham Van Eps, who is more particularly noted in the history of Vernon, and who established a small trading house at this place in the spring of 1785 ; and from information recently obtained, it seems, as previously stated in this chapter, that Mr. Webster established here a depot for Indian goods at even an earlier period. This is now a plaee of considerable business. There are here two respect able houses for public worship. Episcopalian and Presbyte rian, the Oriskany post-office, and a fair mercantile and me chanical business is carried on, but the most important branch of business is its manufactory of woolen goods, A brief account of its operations subjoined, was kindly fur nished by S, Newton Dexter, Esq,, its enterprising agent. -XXIX.] WHITESTOWN. 829 At this place, the brave Gen. Herkimer encamped, with his Uttle band of heroes, on the night previous to the Oris kany battle. Daring the enlargement of the Erie Canal, a large quan tity of human bones have been exhumed, which, no doubt, from the ornaments found with them, were of aboriginal origin. The foUowing, from the Oneida Morning Herald, gives some account of those remains. DISCOVERY OF ABORIGINAL REMAINS AT ORISKANY. " Oriskany, October 27, 1849. '¦ Messrs. Editors : — In excavatiag for the enlarged canal, we have discovered some ten or more skeletons of the Aborigines, and -with them not a few ornaments and medals. The remains are very much decayed, and exhibit evidence of having been interred a very long time. The bodies appear to have been placed in troughs , prepared in the Indian mode of forming canoes ; that is, by burning a log to a flat surface, -and then keeping the flre in the centre from the cavitj-. Faint traces of wood at the sides ofthe skeletons and also coals seem to warrant the correctness of my suggestion. I have assisted in re moving a number of them, and found iu two instances three or four bodies placed heads together, and the limbs radiating from a centre. We found three, a man, woman, and child. The head of the woman lying between the mau's arm and side near the shoulder, and the child's head apparently on her bosom. The man with a portion of the contents of his medicine bag, consisting of the bones of a bird or animal, uniformly of a bright green color, well polished and wound with bark or skin to protect the Indian beauty and semi-transparency. The woman's ornaments, consisting of beads about the size of peas, and variously colored, some of them still retaining the sinew on which they were strung. Together with these I found a rosary of beads, ap parently of ebony, about half an inch in diameter, though so frail as tofallintodust on the slightest pressure. These were strung on a brass chain, some of the links still being in the beads. Among these, and probably attached to the rosary, was a medal of the reign of George the 1st, 1731. Several medals have been found with date,s 830 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP, 1731 to '36, and one with, I think, a Spanish inscription. Ihave one handsome medallion head of George the King of England on one side ; on the other, an Indian shooting a buck -vrith a bCW andawow from behind a tree. There is no date on it, Itis about the size of a dollar. The ear and nose ornaments are made of the celebrated red pipe- stone. Some pipes have been found, one splendid one, speaking la- dian-wise, and no small potatoes a-ny wise. I think it equal to any in Mr, Catlin's Gallery. The remains of one Indian have been found in this vicinity 'with portions of a blanket, ¦«'hich together with the hair seemed quite sound, though tlie skeleton was a good deal deoom- po.sed, yet not appearing as old as those Ihave been describing, I have spun the yarn long enough, " Krogan Rex,'' The Oriskany ManufactU7-ing Company was incorporated in 1811, and is believed to be the oldest woolen manufacturing company now in being in the United States, The capital is $1 10,000, whioh has been all paid in, and is divided into 2000 shares of $55 each. The buildings are situated in the village of Oriskany, upon the margin of the Erie Canal, This com pany have eight set of cards, and a proportionate number of spindles and looms, and manufacture about 100,000 yards of 6-4 goods, broadcloths and tweeds annually, and consume about 200,000 pounds of wool in the manufacture of these goods. The company employ about 120 hands. This com pany has been kept constantly in operation since its com mencement, although often subjected to great losses from the precarious nature of the business, i Atthe time of the incorporation of this company, our, dif ficulties with Great Britain had assumed a threatening aspect, and a number of the prominent public men of that day were induced, from truly patriotic motives, to embark in the busi ness of manufacturing woolen goods, in the hope of doing something to render their country independent of England for a supply of clothing. The most prominent gentlemen XXIX,] WHITESTOWN. -831 engaged in ;4rst starting this; company, were Seth Capron, Jonas Piatt, Thomas R. Gold, Ne^tpnyMann, Theodore SiU, Nathan WiUiams, ..WiUiam G. -Tracy, , DeWitt Clinton,, A,in-, brose Spencer, John Taylor and Stephen Van Rensselaer. The satinetts made by this company sold readily at $4,0-0 per yard, and their broad cloths from $10,00 to $12,00 per yard, but to counterbalance these prices^ for thefirst four years after they commenced operations', they paid an average of §1,12 per pound for their wool. The. company now pay out about $5Q0 weekly for labor. The Dexter Manufacturing Company is situated on the Oriskany Greek in the town of Whitestown, and village of Pleasant Valley. It commenced operations in 1-832, under what is called the general act for .incorporating manufactur ing companies, passpi in 1811. It has a nominal capital of $100,000, divided into 1000 shares of $100 each. The main buildings are of brick and stone, and the factory is 200 feet long, there are seven sets of cards, and a proportionate num ber of spindles and looms. This company manufaeture beau tiful long shawls, broad -cloths and tweeds, and consume abo'U.t 175,000 pounds of wool annually ; and employ about 110 persons in the various branches of its business. The cbmpanyhas gone steadily on since it commenced, and with varied success. The company pay out about $430 weekly for labor., The Wfiitestown Manufacturing Company is situated in the viUage of Walesville inthe town of Whitestown, has a capital of $12,000, and is carried by the waters of 'the Oris- kanv Creek. It manufactures tweeds and flannels, and con sumes about 45,000 pounds of wool annually, and employs about seventy-eight persons. -,,...,,, / 832 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Since the histories of Bridgewater and Kirkland were in type, the venerable men named in the following obituary no tices have deceased and therefore they have a place here. "Akother Revolution.^ry Soldier Gone. — Died on the 28th of .Tuly, 1851, in Kirkland, Noah Clark, in his 88th year. Mr. Clark was a soldier in the war of the Revolution, and was at Yorktown atthe surrender of Lord Cornwallis. He had resided in this county about 61years,andlivedtoseeafamily of six children grow up to maturity about him. His wife died last February, since which time the old gen tleman has gradually failed, till at last death released him from a life, which age and painful inflrmities had rendered hardly desirable. " Three of his sons are the proprietors ofthe extensive cotton facto ries in Kirkland, known as Clark's Mills." " Still Another Revolutionary Soldier Gone. — Died, at his residence in Bridgewater, on Friday, July 18, 1851, Abraham Monro k, aged 92. Mr, Monroe, at the early age of 16, enlisted into the Ameti- can army, and was a soldier under Gen, Gates, atthe surrender of Bur goyne, He was a native of New Hampshire, and removed to Bridge- water while it was a wilderness, and was one of the pioneers in its set tlement. Fortunate in securing one of the flnest locations in this re gion, Mr. M, had the sagacity to be content with his first choice, and remained upon it to the day of his death. " For several years past he received a pension for his Revolutionary services, the need of whichhe fortunately did not feel, having by his temperate and industrious habits secured to himself and family a com petence at an early day. He was a whig of '76, and a whig of '51 . His lastpresidential vote was given ts Gen. Taylor. Although for years nearly isolated from society by age and infirmities, his meraory of the scenes and events of the Revolution remained unusually distinct and vivid to the last. A great concourse of people testified their respect by attending his funeral solemnities, which were held ia the Congrega tional church at Cassville, on the Sabbath succeeding his death." [Correctio'n,— Ou page 783, first line, for " 1787," read " 1778, "J xxx,] IHDLANS, 838 CHAPTER XXX. ' INDIANS. The author had intended to give a mueh more extended notice of the aboriginal inhabitants of this part of our coun try, the Six Nations, than his limits wUl admit of, and had collected many materials for that purpose. The Iroquois or Six Nations, caUed their race the On-gue Hon-we, i. e. " Men surpassing all others,'' The name " Indians " has never been recognized by them, but was given them by foreigners. Those tribes of the Ongue Honwe, known to us as the Eive, and later as the Six Nations or Iroquois, are (or were) known among themselves as the Ko-nosh-i-o-ni (Schoolcraft) ; Ago-nea-se-ah (Macaulay) ; Ho-de-no-sau-nee (Seneca : Mor gan) ; or A-ga-nus-chi-o-ni ; Let-e-nugh-sho-nee ; Gwhun-nugh- sho-nee or Haugh-gogh-nuch-shi-o-nee, (various authors) ; be ing the same word or idea with the dialectical modifications incident to several tribes ; and the signification of whioh is " People of the long house,'' or " People of many fires.'' This name of the Iroquois, like our national motto, E PluriLus Unum, is beautifully significant, and refers to the union of the several tribes, thus forming the " Long house ; " with the Mohawks at the eastern, and the Senecas at the western doors. With the Indians the fire upon the domestic hearth stone was invested with a pecuUar sacredness, and they look ed upon their confederacy as the union of" many fires "or homes. The Powhattans called them Mas-saw-o-meeks ; the Leni • 834 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP. Ijenape (Delawares) called them Meng-wee or Mingoes. By the Dutch and early English writers they were called Ma- quas, and at a later period Mohocks, and from the French they received the name of Iroquois, a name of more frequent and'general use by writers of all nations, than any other. Until the Tuscaroras joined the confederacy they were called by the English the Five Nations. It is supposed by many that the Iroquois succeeded a people who were farther advanced in arts and civilization, who were the builders ofthe fortifications, mounds and other structures, the ruins of which are found in western New York and Ohio. To the latter the name of " Mound Builders " has been very confidently applied by certain learned pundits of the country who have, in connection with their Scandina vian researches, given the subject some attention. The origin of the Iroquois is unknown, and probably will ever remain so, as all that we really know of their history prior to the discovery of America has been gleaned from tra ditions current among them. According to early writers it- was believed that they emigrated from the country around Montreal, that they were dependents of the Algonquins, but becoming troublesome to their masters, the latter drove them from the country, but they finally conquered their masters attd destroyed their power. David Cusick, the Tuscarora historian, has written out a tradition as to their origin, which was formerly current among all the tribes, and which was probably founded in truth. According to this, the Holder of the Heavens took the Indians out of a hill near the Oswego Falls, and leading to and down the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers to the sea. There they became scattered, but their great Leader brought six families back to the vicinity of the jnnction of the Hudson and Mohawk, and then proceeding westerly he planted the Five Nations, the Mohawks, Onei- XXX,J INDIANS. , -835 das,' Onondagas, Senecas and Cayugas, by leaving a family at the location of each, giving them names and slightly chan ging their language. ' •'With the sixth family he proceeded on " between mid-day and sun-setting." to the Mississippi River, which payt of them crossed upon a grape vine, bnt the vine breaking, those on this side travelled easterly to the neigh borhood of the ocean, and settled upon the Neuse River in North Carolina, This last was the Tuscarora tribe. The tradition is highly poetical, and in some respects beautiful, but is too highly colored with supernatural manifestations to be fully and easily understood. As to the'population of the Iroquois in earlier times, we have no certain data, hut their numbers were doubtless much over-rated. In 1677, they were estimated at 2,150 warriors, or 10.750 souls ; in 1756, at 1,200 warriors, or 6,000 souls; iu 1760, at 7,500 souls ; in 176.4, at 7,750, In 1776, it was es timated that 1,5,80 warriors took sides with the British, and 230 were friendly to the Americans, which at the same ratio as above, wauld give 9,050 souls. According to a census ta ken in 1 845 (under a law of this state) of those residing within this state, with estimates and data as to those of the Six Nations residing out of this state, they then included 6,942 souls, of whom 4.836 were within the limits of the United States, and 3,843 were within this state. Of the latter number were 2,441 Senecas, 398 Onondagas and 281 Tuscaroras, being the three tribes which had then remained whole; also 210 Oneidas, 123 Cayugas, 20 Mohawks and 260 St, Regis, etc. The St, Regis tribe was composed orig inally of those members of the other tribes who embraced the Catholic faith and under the influence of the French re moved to the borders of Canada, and their land is now inter sected by the Canada line. Of those out of the state there were (in I §42) 722 Oneidas at Green Bay, about 2G00 836 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Mohawks and Cayugas in Canada, a few Upon the Alleghany River in Pennsylvania, and some scattered in the far west. The main body of the Oneidas, a few Tuscaroras, and one or two of the St. Regis tribe took sides with the Americans in the revolution. Col. Louis of St, Regis rendered the Amer icans efiicient service at Fort Stanwix and elsewhere. All the others of the Six Nations joined the British, and became the scourge of the frontiers of the Mohawk, Hudson and Pennsylvania, The Iroquois confederacy was probably at the heighth of its power when the Dutch commenced their settlements upon the Hudson about 1610, and retained their ascendancy, with little diminution, down to the close of the last "old French war," or about 1760, The Five Nations, by their energy and valor, their eloquence in council and skill in diplomacy, be came the most powerful people in central North America. They carried their arms to the Straits of St. Mary's, to the foot of Lake Superior, and under the walls of Quebec, where they defeated the Hurons under the eyes of the French ; they annihilated the Eries, the Gahquas and the Susquehannocks, and the Munsees ; they put the Manhattans and the Metoacks they subjected the Leni Lenapes (Delawares), the Nanticokes under tribute, they spread terror and destruction over New England, they crossed the Appalachian chain, and descended like furies upon the Cherokees and Gatawbas. Capt. Smith encountered their warriors in Virginia, and La Salle saw them upon the banks of the Illinois. " Nations trembled when tbey heard the name of the Konoshioni." According to the before-mentioned tradition, as to the ori gin of the Six Nations, as recorded by Cusick, after planting xxx. ] INDIANS 837 the Mohawks, the "company journeyed westward two day? and a half, and came to a creek called Kaw-na-taw-ta-ruh, i. e. " Pine woods." (This creek, according to Cusick, is a branch of the Susquehannah, having its head in Col. Allen's lake ten miles iniles south of Oneida Castle.') The second family were di rected to take up their residence near that creek, and they were named Ne-haw-ve-tah-go, i. e. "Big tree" (the Oneidas), and their language was changed." In conclusion, he says '• but the six famiUes did not go so far as to lose the understanding of each other's language." The history of the Oneidas, from the settlement of this country by Europeans to the commencement of the revolu tionary contest, is similar to, and inseparably interwoven with that of their confederates. Prior to the conquest of Canada, the French left no means untried to induce them to connect their interests with theirs, to seduce them from the interests of the Dutch and English, to acquire a foothold upou and dominion over their territory, and to secure their trade. The Six J^ations, when left to act independently, ever acknow- edged themselves as the allies of, and as owing allegiance to the Dutch and afterwards the English, and that allegiance was constantly strengthened by new treaties and promises on one side, and by protection and presents on the other. The Jesuit missionaries were a ready and powerful means used by the French to acquire an influence over the In dians, and a constant source of trouble and anxiety to the English. As early as September 1667, a Jesuit mission was established at Oneida by Father Jacques Bruyas, It was named St. Francis Xavier. The Oneidas, as well as all the other tiibes of the Five Nations, had been visited by the Jesuits for about twenty-five years previously, but their main labors had been performed at Onondaga, where were at various periods, extensive mission establishments. 838 ANNALS OF ONErtA COUNTY. The Mohawks ind Oneidas were called by ekrly French wri ters, the inferior, and the Onondagas, Cayugas and Senecas the superior Iroquois, probably on account of their location, but there Was a tradition that the former had been an ofi'-shoot from the latter. The Jesuit relations (Journals,) for 1668-9: speaking of the Oneida's say, " the Nation of Oneida is about thirty leagues towards the south and west from the Mohawks and 140 from Quebec ; are of all the Iroquois theieast tract able, and the arms of the French not yet having penetrated so far, they fear us only through the experience of their n^eigh- bors the Mohawks, This nation (Oneidas), which despise.'? the others since their defeat, is in a disposition contrary to the Christian faith, and by its arrogance and pride, tries the pa tience of a missionary very sorely. It was necessary that Divine Providence should assign tliem a peculiar man, and choose for them a spirit who might by his mildness conquer or allay their wild and fierce disposition. Father Bruyas has been the man destined for their service, but his labors have generaUy been rewarded only by rebuffs and contempt, * * * The number of baptized amounts already to near thirty, most of whom are already in glory," This gives us an insight into the di'stinctive features of the Oneida character at that peri od. From 1671 to '96 Father Millet labored at Oneida, and the mission was represented as flourishing, but these missions among the Iroquois began to decline about the year 1700. The English forbid the French to visit the Indians, and those among them, missionaries and traders, were ordered out of their territory. The- history of the Jesuit missions among the Iroquois, Would form a volume of great interest. Some thirty or fOrty years since, the remains of three per sons were brought to li^t by the overturning of a tree upon the hill near HamUton College. The middle one was buried with his head in an opposite direction from the other two. *^^-] njDUNS. E33 and upon his breast was found a small metal cross. From a weU known custom among Catholics, this individual was doubtless a priest, but who, or when, or how he died is left for conjecture. Schoolcraft, in his " Notes on the Iroquois." says that he re-, quested several Oneidas to pronounce their name, or what is nearly synonymous, the name of the Oneida stone — ^which they did as foUows ; O^i-o-ta-aug ; O-ne-u-ta-aug ; O-fie-yu- m-aug. '¦'• The terminal syllable aug seems to be a local par ticle," giving the word a definite meaning, as tlie stone, thus distinguishing the ancient monument of the Oneidas from all other stones. The syUable ta carries the idea of life and with O-nia a stone, the whole word means " People of the Stone " — and with that poetic fancy which characterizes the Iroquois, the name is applied indiscriminately to the Onei das and TJie granite bowlder. May be, they fancied that the stone bore to themselves something of the relation of the soul to the body, and was therefore a part of their being. The author's recollection as to the language of the Oneidas ex tends back to a time when they were not the poor, broken scattered people they now are, when that language was as soft and musical as the tones of a flute, instead of the rough. gutteral jargon of the present day. The different ways of pronouncing the word Oneida at present is, doubtless, correct ly given. In olden time their name was by their orators and warriors pronounced O-ne-i-ta, with the third syllable accent" ed, and the whole spoken in the softest manner possible. The aug was in common conversation either omitted, or pronounc ed so much like a mere aspiration as to be detected with dif ficulty. Early travellers and writers speak of the Oneidas as the most polished, possessing the finest forms and as being the most prepossessing in manners and appearance of any of the 840 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY, [cHAP Iroquois tribes. Smith, the colonial historian, quotes fron^ a letter written it 1748 by the Rev, Mr, Spencer, a mission ary among the Oneidas at Ononghquage (Oquago, formerly a village in the town of Windsor, Broome Co,), as follows : " The dialect of the Oneidas is softer than that of the other nations, and the reason is because they have more vowels and often supply the plaee of harsh letters with liquids," According to the tradition of Cusick, the Oneidas first set tled upon one of the head-waters ofthe Susquehannah, called Kaw-nah-taw-te-ruh (variously spelled), about ten miles south of Oneida Castle, The "earliest recollected residence" of the Oneidas was upon the southern shore of Oneida Lake, near the mouth of the Oneida Creek, Here they construct ed fortifications, remains of which have been found since the country was settled by whites. From the last named place the Oneidas removed to the neighborhood ofthe recent loca tion of the Stone in the present town of -Stockbridge, Madi son Gounty, to a place called Ca-nagh-ta-ragh-ga-ragh, (This name i,s, however, spelled in divers ways). From the sim ilarity in names there is some reason for supposing that this is the location mentioned by Cusick in the tradition of the origin of the tribes. It is believed, that their removal tc this place v/as before the formation of the Iroquois confede racy, Pyrlaus, a Duteh missionary among the Mohawks at Fort Hunter, wrote between 1742 and '48, that the result of his best conjectures and information was that the Iroquoi-^ league or confederacy was formed about " one age,, or the length of a man's life " prior to the arrival of the Dutch, in 1609, which would fix the date at about 1530-35. The town of the Oneidas at this place was in a valley south of the com manding eminence upon which the Stone rested, but in the immediate vicinity. The corn hills upon their ancient fields are still visible, although a new forest has grown up since XXX.] INDIANS. 841 those fields were cultivated. Upon counting the rings show ing the annual growth of trees in this forest, we are taken back to the year 1550, showing that it is over 300 years since the Oneidas ceased to cultivate those fields. The next re move of the Oneidas was to Ca-no^a-lo-a, the site of Onei da Castle. The signification of this name is " Enemy's head on a pole," and it is spelled in a great variety of ways by dif ferent persons, but' Ga-no-wa-lo-a is believed to be correct. The Oneidas resided in this place in 1609, when the Dutch settled upon the Hudson. In--1677, they were visited by Wentworth Greenhalgh, who says in his journal : "the Onyades have but one town " * * it is newly settled, double stockaded, with but lit tle cleared ground, so that they are forced to send to the On- ondagoes to buy corn. The town consists of about 100 houses, and they are said to have about 200 fighting men. Their corn grows around about the town.'' A report made to the French government in 1736, says : "the Oneidas (called by the French Onoyants), number 100 men or 100 warriors. They have for a device a stone in a fork of a tree, or in a tree notched with some blows of an axe." In 1763, Sir Wm. Johnson in a statement of the number, etc., of the Indians within his department says: " Oneidas: 250 men, two vil lages, one twenty-five miles from Fort Stanwix, the other twelve miles west of Oneida Lake, with emigrants in sev eral places towards the Susquehanna River." In the wars between England and France, and those be tween the French government in Canada and the Iroquois, the Oneidas bore their part, and although not so renowned for their cruelty and savage treatment of enemies as the Mo hawks, or prowess in battles as some of the other tribes, they were not deficient in bravery, were more cool in the midst of a contest, and excelled in the arts of diplo-mao-y, and in, posi- 842 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. tions where the mental, instead of the physical powers, were called into action. A report to the French government of the affairs of New France j(Canada), in 1664-5, states that this nation "dialled Oneida, which has no more, at least, than 140 warriors, and has never wished to listen to any negotia tions for peace" (with the French, being allies of England) ; "on the contrary it has always embarrassed affairs when they appeared about to be arranged," Like all barbarians the Iroquois were easily influenced by promises and bountiful presents, and in the latter, especially those which pleased the fancy and tastes ofthe Indians the French were always more liberal .than the English, The French desired to secure the territory and trade of -the Indians, pretending that the Iro quois were within the dominions of the French king, hoping to make good this pretence by conquest and treaties. They established trading honses and forts upon the southern shore of Lake Ontario, and sent great numbers of missionaries, agents, spies and traders to the Indian villages. On the other hand, the Iroquois annually met the Dutch and English governors at Albany, " to brighten the chain of friendship," to receive presents, re-acknowledge their allegi ance to the British, From the first the Iroquois had always been in heart and in fact the allies of the Dutch, and after wards of the English — together they fonght against the French and their Indian allies and of the English they re ceived arms, ammunition, food and clothing. But upon retarn- ing from those - re-unions," the Iroquois found at their homes the wily agents of the French, who with showy presents and alluring words, added to the blandishments of their military trappings and the imposing forms of their religion, often al most turned the " untutored minds" of the poor Indians, and extorted from them privUeges and promises which they did not fally understand, which at heart they did not wish nor intend ^^¦1 INDIANS. 843 to yield' or pefiofm, and which in the enS wel-e 'construed to mean far more, instead of less, than was warranted by the letter. In some way these deaUngs with the French would ciome to the ears of the English, a new council would be called at Orange (Albany), or if the Indians feared or were unwiUing to attend there, then at one of thelndian viUages, and new mu tual promises of friendship and allegiance were made, the de signs of the French were explained and the French agents were ordered to leave the Indian territory under pain of death or a 'dungeon. As a result, the Indians refused the privileges, or neglected to perform the promises extorted by the French, The 'French noW attempt to chastise the Iro quois for 'their bad faith, and fbr that purpose marched into their ceuntry with a force of soldiers and Indians, burn their villagesand strong-holds, kill their women and old men, and carry their warriors to Canadato be held as hostages, or deliv ered to the Indian allies as victims for torture. To revenge such injuries, the -Iroquois, in several instances, put to death the Jesuit missionaries who had remained in their country, ¦Previously tothe 'French war of 1755, the Dutch and Eng- glish were guilty of the most blame-worthy supineness and negligence in not better protecting the Iroquois from the in roads of the French, The foregoing is an imperfect but truth ful view of the doings and policy of the Dutch and English, the French and the Iroquois, for a period of one hundred years. At times, conscious that they could gain nothing, let whichever party be victorious, the English or the French, that continual contests were destroying their warriors and influence-, and drawing the whites upon their territory, they attempted to occupy a neutral position or negotiate indepen dent treaties of peace, but policy and interest forbid their be ing allowed these privileges. In January 1666, the French dispatched a force of 500. 844 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUNTY. fOHAP. soldiers to chastise the Iroquois for their obstinancy in refus ing to permit the missionaries to remain among them — or as appears from a report to the Home government, upon the principle that " no advantage can be expected from these na tions (Iroquois), except in so far as we (French) appear able to injure them,'' This force attempted'to reach the Mohawks, but after almost incredible hardships and sufferings retreated t'o Canada after a few slight skirmishes. At the same time, most of the Oneida and Mohawk warriors were absent upon an expedition against a distant tribe called Wampum Makers, In the following summer the Five Nations sent delegations to Quebec to ask for peace. The French refused to make a treaty until they could send a number of Frenchmen into -the Indian country to learn what were the real motives of the natives in asking peace, and accordingly, a party was des patched for that purpose, escorted by the Mohawks then at Quebec, Upon their route the party learned that several French soldiers had recently been attacked while hunting near Lake Champlain, of whom several were killed and oth ers taken prisoners by a force of Mohawk warriors. Enrag ed at this information, the Frenchmen immediately retraced their steps, and ten Oneida chiefs, who had remained at Que bec, were put in irons at that place as hostages. A force of 300 men was now detached to chastise the Mohawks for this last outrage, but after proceeding a short distance they met a party of Mohawks on their way to Quebec with the French prisoners, taken while hunting as above stated, and as a con sequence the force again returned to Canada, A general peace was now '-^pretended" to be made between the French and all the Five Nations. The French, however, believing that the treaty would be made more permanent by a severe ehastisement of the Mohawks, immediately (October, 1666), xxt-l istitAsa. 845 s«it «fon« «f 1 IDOvQgttlaifi, Canadians and Indian^ agunst tbeaa. Tbe Mohawks learning of their i^pnadi, fled firom ^^ oastlfls, and tbe Froicb irreaked their 'vogeauee upon tb^ old men, -women and ehildiea, bouses, catfle and corn. In 1684, the government of Canada determined again to idiasUse the Iroqutu:^ for the murder of some itf &e misaima- ties,* the robbing and murdering vi several traders, and other injvrties and insults to the French ibnnd in their country. Tbe Frent^ bad continaed to sand Jeswts, traders and spies intone Indian oowktry, althou^ the govemment of New York bad made laws fiwbidding ihdr enterkig the territory <^tbe Iroqiucas, and the Iroqnois had promised not to pennit tbe Fr^neh to reraain among them. There was, however, al- w«ys a paity of ^preater or le^ intuenoe of^e natives inthe f^r^oh interest Tbe Ou^das and Mohawks do not seem in ^is instance t6 bave been conneeted with those mardeis and robberies, fbr bung nearer the fingUsb and Dutch, it is pre- snmed the Frenoh did not so fioely ventare among tiiem. La Barre. the governw of Canada, proceeded with a strong fi>ie» finr the purpose of attadai^ tiie Senecas. and after a danger ous voyage landed at Hon^y Bay, in Jefferson Co., where bis men, as be rc^ported, «aooanter«d disease and death, priva tions and safi[<»ing, in their worst forms. Here the Frenasure was so anpopalar with tbe army and people of Canada, tiiat be was treated with the greatest insdenoe a«l oonten^andbcwassoonaftemai^ieaailBd. Tbelndtan^ 1846 AKNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTT, [CHAH-, were coaxed' to enter into the treaty,- when many, of . them were anxious for war, and this too by a Geiieral at the head of an invading airmy, before a blow had been struck. La Barre pretended that he had not previously known that the 'Five Nations were united in a confederacy, and that to attack the Senecas, was to attack the whole. The Indians had agreed to the treaty, to suit their own purposes, and intended to observe it until they chose to do otherwise, a fact apparent to the whole French army, exeept its-weak commander, The policy of the English at this period is plainly seen in an ex tract from a report of Gov. Dongan, of New York, to the Board &i Trade, in 1687, " The Five Nations are the most warlike people ia America, and are- a bulwark between us- and tbe French, and all other Indians, They go as far as the south sea, the north-west passage (Mackinaw), and Florida, to war — and indeed they are so considerable that all the In dians in these parts are tributary, to them, I suffer no Chris tians to converse with them any where but at Albany, and that not without my license," In a report from the Governor of Canada to the government of France, made in 1685, after a full description Of tiie Iroquois, is the following: "It is necessary then to examine the most certain means of destroy ing and conquering their five villages, which according to the above estimate, may bring into the field about 2000, men bearing arms, and in a condition to go to war." For the next ten years a petty war of incursions aud excursions was car ried ori between the French and Indians. In 1696, Count Frontenac, Governor of Canada, deter mined to destroy the Onondagas and Oneidas. On the 27th of July, he landed near Black River with a foirce of about 3000 soldiers and Indians, and crossed the Oswego Biver, August 1. Grossing the Onondaga Lake, they erected a fort at the landing plaoe, and then advanced towards the Ono>a- XKX,J INDIANS. 847 daga castle. For several days they had seen evidences that the Indians were on the alert, and preparing for the invasion, August 3d, the army encamped at a place " caUed the salt springs, which," says the cbronicler, " they truly are, and produce salt enough to make us wish they were near Que bec," On the 4th the army formed in order of attack in two columns, with the Count carried in a chair between them, and advanced to the Onondaga village — but which, upon their ar rival, they found entirely deserted. The castle surrounded by a triple row of pickets, the cabins -and other buildings were heaps of smouldering rulns- The Indians had all fled into fastnesses of the forest. Immense flelds of corn exten ding from one to two leagues from the fort, large quantities of grain secreted in pits, furs and arms were destroyed by the French. The next day, a Frenchman, who had been a pris oner, and an Indian, arrived from Oneida with a belt of wam pum, asking peace which the Count told them they could only have by removing to Canada, where they would be pro tected upon lands which would be given. On the Oth, a force of six or seven hundred men under M, de Vaudreuil was de tached to proceed to the Oneida viUage, where they arrived early on the 7th. Upon approaching their viUage, the Onei das sent a delegation of chiefs and warriors to request the French commander not to march his force Within their town, as they feared his savages would destroy their corn, promising to comply in all things with the wishes of the Count as ex pressed to their messenger sent to Onondaga. Vaudreuil repUed, that it was useless for them to think of preserving their corn for according to the promise of their father. Count Frontenac, they should not want for food when they had re moved to Canada, and that he should therefore destroy it all, and that he should also destroy their fort and houses, as dweUings were ready for their reception. Upon entering 848 ANNALS OP ONEIDA COUMTY. [CHAP, their village, (Co-no-wa-lo-a), the French found but thirty or forty persoris, the head chiefs and warriors of the nation, all the other inhabitants having fled into the forests. They also found four French prisoners, among whom was a young French woman, who had just arrived from the Mohawks, and who reported that 300 English and MohaWks were on the way to defend the Oneidas and Onondagas. A Mohawk, who had the previous year escaped from Canada and given the English and Mohawks notice of an intended attack upon the latter, was taken near the Oneida Village, and soon after- wa,rds burned by his savage captors. Several of the Indians found in the village were sent after the fugitives with a hope that they would be induced to return, but without suc cess. During the Sth the French and their allies remained in the woods near the village, expecting the approach of the English, but none appearing they proceeded to destroy the fort, houses and corn-fields of the Oneidas, and on the 9th re traced their steps towards Onondaga. The French took with them thirty-five of the principal men of the Oneida nation, who were carried as captives to Canada. On the 12th (of August), Count Frontenac embarked his army upon lake Frontenac (Ontario), upon their return to Canada. The English at Albany and New York had had timely notice of the expedition under Frontenac, and George Fletcher called several meetings of his Council to talk of means for aidinL' the Iroquois, and they talked oi sending 400 men to Onon daga. The record of one of the meetings of the Council, says respecting this proposition: " The Council do approve there of, but afiirm the impossibility for want of money," &c. Sev eral members of the Council talked of loaning their personal credit to the colony for 200 pounds each, but while they were talking the French had come and gone. The Oneidas and Mohawks had sent some of their chiefs to Albany, asking for XXX,] ¦ mniANS. 849 men and arms for their protection,, knowing their inability to meet so large a force as was marching, against them. Up on the near approach of the French, the main body of the Oneida Nation had fled to Albany, where they arrived about the Sth of August, and messengers were. dispatched to bring the homeless Onondagas to that place also. Having lost their entire crops of corn, these two nations were, during, migst of the year following, dependent for support upon the govern ment and people of the colony of New York, and their fami lies remained at Albany and other places upon the Hudson, untU their castles and towns had been rebuilt. In 1687 the Seneca villages had been destroyed in the same manner, by an army under M. Denonville, and in 1690 Schenectady had been destroyed, and the Mohawks jeopardized and alarmed — and the latter raised but small quantities of grain — leaving only the Cayugas, who had not been over-run by the French, to succor and aid the other four nations. But the charge of invasion does not apply exclusively to the French. The Iroquois frequently sent out parties to the frontiers of Canada, and who often crossed the boundaries with hostile intentions ; and many parties of French, on both sides, were destroyed or made captives. It was the policy of the French to induce the Indians, as often as possible, to make their treaties in Canada, instead of upon their own territory. After the defeat of the Senecas by DenonvUle, and early in the year 1 688, the French invited about twelve hundred Iroquois to Montreal, to raake a treaty ; but while upon their way thither several of their number were murder ed by a party of Hurons. The Hurons were the allies of the French, but were opposed to peace, and their chief made the Iroquois beUeve that they had been instigated to these murders by tbe French. The Iroquois now resolved upon revenge. 54 8&'0 ANNALS or ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP On the the 26th of July, 1688, they landed upon the island of Montreal, and destroyed about one thousand of the inhabitants, burned their houses, sacked their plantations, and carried off twenty-six prisoners, who met death at the stake. In October of this year, they again descended like tigers upon the devoted inhabitants of the lower part of the island, and killed or carried into bondage a large number Death and desolation followed the Iroquois in these attacks, in their most dreadful forms, and mourning and misery were entailed upon .the French emigrants for long years afterwarde Ifhe destruction of Schenectady was thought to have been in retaliation for these incursions, as the English and Iroquoi.*! were allies, and the latter were, even in times of peace between England and France, incited by the former to hostility against the French of Canada, In 1698, a permanent peace waa established between Canada and the Iroquois, which continued until 1755 — the Iroquois as a people, maintaining a position of strict neutrality in the wars between England and France. Aa individuals and adventurers, a few of the Iroquois fought {inder the banner of either nation, but in their councUs the Indians had learned that victory to either side could confer uo benefits upon them. During this interval of peace, the French put forth many efforts to induce the Iroquois to remove to Canada, but with little success, as the Indians were too strongly attached to their old hunting grounds. In 1749, Father Millet established a mission station at La Pre sentation, called by the Indians Swegatchie (now Ogdens burgh), which he fortified. His object was to induce those of the Six Nations willing to embrace the Catholic faith to remove thither, and thus bring them under the dominion and influence of the French. In the course of about ten years, many families, including about three hundred souls, princi pally Oneidas and Onondagas, removed thither. Upon the X.XX ] INDIANS. 851 conqnest of Canada, this mission was broken up, aud the natives scattered. Up to this time, the Jesuits had main tained missions among the Onondagas, Cayugas, and Seneeas, with varied success. Prior to tbe French war of 1755, Sir William Johnson, Indian agent for the Northern Department, had acquired an influence among the Iroquois never enjoyed by another indi vidual. Under his influence the main -body of the IroquoiiS, excepting the Seneeas, became the allies of the English during the war ; but the Senecas and those who had removed tb the borders of Canada, under the influence of the Jesuits, fought under the French. After the conquest of Canada, the Iroquois remained at peace, until the commencement of the Revolution. The United Colonies felt the importance of ascertaining the sentiments of the Indians, and propitiating their good will, knowing with what power they might fall upon the fron tiers, if so dispdsed, The colonies, in the first instance, only desired to secure their neutrality, but if that should not be practicable, then they would reluctantly accept the aid of their arms. On the contrary, the British immediately sent agents among the Six Nations, to secure their active co-opera tion with their forces in the war ; and the bloodshed, rapine and destruction witnessed in the Mohawk Valley, and upon the frontiers of Pennsylvania, were the result. As evidence of the policy of the Americans, as above stated, the follow ing extracts from the records of the Continental Congress of July 17, 1775, are given : " Resolved, That Mr, Cushing, Mr. Henry, and Mr. Deane, be a committee to confer with Mr. Kirkland, and report what in their opinion is an adequate compensation for his services among the Indians." On the same day, the committee reported, Mr. Kirkland 852 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. bpiug present, and, in accordance with such report, Congress '• Biesahed, that there be, and there is hereby allowed to Reverend Mr. Samuel Kirkland, three hundred dollars to discharge the expenses he has been at among the Indians of the Six Nations, to defray the expenses of his journey from and to the Oneida Country, and that he receive the same ont ofthe Continental Treasury: and it is hereby recommended to the Commissioners of the Northern Department to employ the said Mr. Kirkland among the Indians of the Six Nations, in order to secure their friendship, and to continue them in a state of neutrality with respect to the present controversy between Great Britain and these Colonies." How different from the reward offered and paid by the British, of eight dollars a-piece for the scalps of the Ameri cans, without regard to age, sex or condition ! No wonder that it is hardly considered in the Mohawk Valley, even to this day, a crime to kill an Indian. The following letter written by Mr. Kirkland, to the New York Committee of Safety, a short time before he visited Congress, is characteristic, and reveals the then existing state of things — and it is presumed will be new to most of our readers : " Cherry Valley, 9th June, 1775. "Gentlemen : — This acknowledges the receipt of your favor with an enclosed paper, the authenticity of which I have no doubt. I am much emharrassed at preoent. You have doubtless heard that Col. Johnson has orders from government to remove the dissenting minis ters from the Six Nations, 'till the diffiouliies bet-vveen Great. Britain and the Colonies are settled— in consequence of whicli he has forbid my return to my people at Oneida. He has since given encouragement that I may visit them after the Congress ; but, to be plain, I have no dependence at all upon his promises of this kind. In particular he ap pears unreasonably jealous of me, and has forbid my speaking a word to the Indians and threatened me with confinement if I transgressed. xxx.] INDIANS. ¦ 853 AU he has against me I suppose to be this ; a suspicion that I have in- terpreted^to the Indians the doings ofthe Continental Congress, which has undeceived and too much opened the eyes ofthe Indians for Col. Johnson's purposes. I confess to you, gentlemen, that I have been guilty of this, if it bo any transgression. The Indians found out that 1 had received the abstracts of said Congress, and insisted on kno'w- ingthe contents, I could not deny them notwithstanding m-y cloth, though in all other respects I have been extremely cautious not to meddle in matters of a political nature, " I apprehend my interpreting the doings of the Congress to a number of their Sachems, has done more real service to the cause of the country, or the cause oftruth and justice, than i:500 in presenta would have effected. If you think proper you may acquaint yonr Provincial Congress with the contents of this, but you must be cau tious in exposing my name. You can not but be sensible my situation is extremely difficult. You may expect either to see or hear from me again very soon. Wishing you the blessings of peace, and that we may all be disposed to acquiesce in the divine government ; in utmost haste I subscribe, gentlemen, your ob't, and very humble servant, ' Samuel Kirkland. -" Tothe flommittee of Albany," Early in the year 1776, a councU was held at Fort Dayton (now Herkimer), in which all the Six Nations were repre sented by many of their chiefs and warriors, and Gen, Philip • Schuyler was the commissioner of the Colonies, under the authority of Congress, A treaty was here negotiated, in which all the Six Nations pledged themselves to remain neutral during tbe contest ; but in a short time they com menced their depredations upon the frontiers. The John sons at Johnstown, Walter Butler, Brant and others, had - exerted an influence which could not be overcome. The main body of the Oneidas (those living at Oneida Castle), a part of the Tuscaroras, and one or two members of the St. Regis tribe, however, began and continued the fiirm and faithful friends of the Americans, -during the entire. 854 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. Revolutionary contest. For this result we were mainly indebted to the wisdom, perseverance, and personal influence of Rev. Mr, Kirkland and Judge James Dean, As it was hardly in the nature of the Indians, especially the noble Oneidas, when their friends were suffering in the contest, to be restrained .within the bounds of neutrality, their active services were reluctantly accepted by Washington, Yet it remains to be shown, that the Indian allies of the Americans were ever guilty of those acts of cruelty and barbarism, which so indelibly tarnished the fame and flag of our foes, when committed by their allies, under the auspices and procure ment of the British Parliament, The Oneidas and Tuscaroras, when in service, were main' ly employed as scouts, in procuring and conveying intelli gence of the plans and movements of the enemy upon our frontiers, and in making an out-post at Oneida Castle, so that the enemy were compelled to take extended circuits in reach ing the Mohawk Valley, The colony at Oquago, supposed to have been Oneidas, and may be some others upon the Susquehannah, were doubtless in the employ of the British, and from whence the parties of Indians and infinitely more savage Tories, made their descents upon the frontier settle ments. In the latter part of 1778, Oquago (now Windsor, Broome Go,), was destroyed by the Americans. It is impossible, at this time, to do justice to the Oneidas, and other friendly Indians, who took part with the Americans, by recounting their deeds of valor, or recording the various services which they rendered. It is understood, that a con siderable party of them were with the American army at the battle of White Plains, and did good service. During the siege of Fort Stanwix, they were very useful in watching the eneiny, and conveying intelligence. Col, Louis, of the St. Regis, has been named as among those who rendered bene- XXX.] INDIANS, 856 ficial services at and in the vicinity of Fort Stanwix, at that period. Upon the retreat of St, Leger, a party of Oneidas hung upon his rear, adding to the panic and speed of his forces. Col, Louis received his title, with a commission, from Congress, on account of his attachment to the Americans. The great Scanandoa, '= The White Man's Friend," exerted his powerful influence at first, in inducing the Oneidas to remain neutral, and when that was impossible, by explaining the principles involved in the contest, and enlisting their warriors in behalf of the Americans. In October, 1780, when Gen. Robert Van Rensselaer pur sued John Johnson and his Tories and Indians up the Mohawk, he had with him about 200 Oneidas under Col. John Harper. They, however, gained no laurels in this expedition, because of the disgraceful management of Gen. Van Rensselaer, who, even after the British officers had in council decided to surrender, did not give them an opportu nity to do so, but by a suspicious supineness, permitted their whole force to escape. Col. Harper and his brave Oneidas were impatient to attack the enemy, and were highly incens ed at their General's movements — and Col. Harper would have made an attack, had it not been contrary to orders. In October, 1781, a force of from 700 to 1000 British- Tories and Indians — commanded by Major Ross, accom panied by the bloodstained Tory Major, Walter Butler, made a. descent into the Mohawk Valley, burning the few remain ing buildings in their way, killing several of the inhabitants in their houses, and carrying others into captivity in Canada. The brave Col. Willett, who was then at Fort Rensselaer, about twenty miles from where the British were known to be, immediately marched to Fort Hunter with all the force he conld mnster, amounting to 416 men. On the 25th of Octo ber, the battle of Johnstown was fought, in which the Ameri- 856 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHA?- cans were victorious, and the enemy put to flight. The enemy continued to retreat during the whole night after the battle, taking a route westward, about twenty miles north wardly of the Mohawk. Col, Willett had under his com mand a considerable force, (by some stated at a hundred and upwards) of Oneida and other friendly Indians, among whom was a Mohawk chief, commanded by Col, Louis, On the morning following the battle, Col, WiUett commenced the pursuit, and upon the arrival of his advance near the West Canada Creek, a smart skirmish occurred between them and the enemy. The British then crossed the West 'Canada Creek, about fifteen miles north of Herkimer, and near where that stream leaves Oneida county ; and the Tory Butler, unconscious of being within the reach of Ameriean rifles, dismounted and was in the act of drinking from a tin cup, when he was discovered, Anthony, a Mohawk chief, and Daniel Olendorf, well known upon the Mohawk river, were in advance of the main body, and recognizing the Tory leader, both fired across the creek, and Butler fell. The Mohawk, casting aside his rifle and blanket, plunged into the stream, tomahawk in hand, and when he came up to' the wounded Tory, found him reclining upon his, elbow, supporting his bleeding head. Seeing the Mohawk, Butler raised his hand and cried, " Spare me ! — give me quarters!" Remembering the destruction of Cherry Valley, and the leading part But ler had borne in that murderous attack, amid the unheeded prayers of mothers and tears of orphan children, the Indian replied, " Me give you Slierrey Falley quarters]' with the words burying his keen-edged tomahawk in his brain. Col, Willett and a number of his officers arriving, were informed by Olendorf of the near proximity of Butler, and they crossed the stream just as the Mohawk had drawn his knife to scalp the lifeless Butler, But perceiving his commander, Col. f-'fX.] INDIANS. 857' Louis, he asked, by a circular motion with his knife around the bleeding head, if he should do it ? Col. Louis asked Ooi. WiUett if Butler should be scalped, to which Col. WU lett replied " he (the Mohawk) belongs to your party ;" and an approving nod from the Savage Colonel was foUowed by the Mohawk's securing the usual trophy of Indian prowess. The Mohawk chief then appropriated to immediate use the uniform of the fallen Tory, and was soon strutting about, saying, " I be Brish ofser .'" Thus ended the days of one who even from childhood had been noted for his cruel and cold heart and savage temper — who had so often feasted hia eyes with the blood of his neighbors and those with whom he had been reared. His father, Col, John Butler, although an active Tory officer, had, it is said, some good traits — but the son none. It would be a grateful task to record more fully the ser vices of our Indian friends and allies in the Revolution ; but the particulars and data are lost or forgotten. But the great material fact that the Oneidas, a part of the Tuscaro ras, one or two of St. Regis, -and atleast one Mohawk, " did what they could" for us and our country in that dark hour, is engraven in indelible and imperishable characters upon the American heart. During the summer of 1777, while the army of St. Leger was approaching and at Fort Stanwix, and at various other periods during the war, the Oneidas and friendly Tuscaroras removed their families to Schenectady and Albany, where they were supported by our government. Game was render ed scarce in the forests, from the marching of so many hostile forces through them ; and the Indians had neither time nor qaiet in which to raise corn for their sustenance, which ren dered those measures for their support indispensible. At the close of the Revolution it became neeessarvfor oa-r 858 ANNALS or ONElDA COUNTY. [CHAE.- government to enter into treaties and various arrangements with the Indian tribes, with regard to their rights, lands, etc , and the terms under which, they were to be permitted to remain within the United States. Congress appointed com missioners for holding a convention with the Indians in the Northern and Middle Departments, and adopted a series of resolutions, fixing the basis of those treaties and arrange ments with the several Nations. Notwithstanding that most of these tribes had been hostile to the United States during the war, the policy of Congress was mild and humane ; yet this basis of arrangement recognized distinctions between them, founded upon their previous course and existing feel ings towards our government. Those resolutions were adopted October 15, 1783, As to the Oneidas and Tuscaroras, however, a different state of things had existed, and the following was the resolu tion respecting them : " Sixthly — And whereas the Oneida and Tuscarora tribe.? have adhered to the cause of America, and joined her armies in the course of the late war, and Congress have frequently assured them of peculiar marks of favor and friendship, the said commissioners are therefore instructed to re-assure the said tribes of the friendship of the United States, and that they may, rely that the land which they claim as their inheri tance will be reserved for their sole use and benefit, until they may think it for their advantage to dispose of the same." The commissioners appointed by Congress were Oliver Wolcott, Ricliard Butler, and Arthur Lee. A grand coun cil of all the Six Nations was called at Fort Stanwix, in 1784, and a treaty made by which the Six Nations (except the Mohawks) had reservations assigned them, and establishing the line between this State and the Oneidas, upon the " old - line of property" as fixed by the treaty of 1758. *^*] INDIANS. 859 The British treated th«ir Indian aUies with much indiffer ence after the war, excepting those who removed to Canada, the main body of the Mohawks and Cayngas and individuals of the other tribes, making no stipulations in thoir favor in the treaty of peace with our government. In the Indian wars from 17SS to '04, the Oneidas took no part, while the Onondagas and Sonecas joined tho western tribes, who de feated Generals 8t Clair and Harmer; but they were defeated and almost annihUtiti^d by G^n. Wayne, and many of those two tribes left their bones to bloach upon the banks ofthe Miiimi. Since thon none ofthe Six Nations residing within our limits have turned their arms ag.oinst us. In the war of ISl'i, the Oneidas, Onondagas, Cayugas andSonecss, took part with the United States, and did good service at Chippewa and Lundy's Lane. Thoy elected Hoh-a-hao-qua (La Fort), an Onondaga, their chief war captain, who was killed at Chippewa. Dostator, an Oneida' cliief, was also killed in the same action. Protestant Missions. — About the year 1700, efforts began to be made to establish Protestant missions among the Iroquois ; but for many years but Uttle was done but to ap point a few missionaries, who resided among the English and Dutch . and occasionaUy visited the 'various tribes. In 1712, Rev. WilUam Andrews wa« appointed a mission ary among the " Jlohocks and Oneidas " by the " Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts," under the auspices of Queen Anne, who felt a deep interest in the Six Nations. After a residence of six years among the Mohawks, visiting the Oneidas often, lie became discouraged and asked to be recalled, saying : '' there is no hope of making them better — ^heathen they are and heathen they still must be,'' evincing to ns less faith than some of onr modern missiona ries, who have labored more than six years before seeing a 860 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [OHAP. single convert. Afterwards the Rev. Drs. Barclay and Ogil vie, missionaries at Albany, eontinued to visit and labor with the Mohawks and Oneidas, among whom there were a con siderable number of Christian converts. The first regular Protestant mission established at Oneida Castle, was doubt less that of Rev. Mr. Kirkland, already noticed, although it is believed that the place received the occasional visits of missionaries, between 1700 and the date of Mr. Kirkland's arrival in 1766. Sir William Johnson, from the time of his arrival among the Mohawks in 1734 to his death in 1774, is said to have felt a strong interest for, and made many efforts to Christianize the Six Nations, and procure missionaries and teachers to reside among them. About the year 1756, several families of Oneidas and Tuscaroras from Oquago (then spelled Onohoghgwage), began to spend the winter in attendance at the Rev. Dr. Edwards' mission school, at Stockbridge, Mstssachusetts, and continued to do so for a number of years, and among others were there taught by Piev. Gideon Hawley. In 1748, Rev, Elihu Spencer (afterwards president of Dickinson's College, New Jersey) had been sent as a missionary to Oquago, but he was mnable to surmount the difficulties of his situation and returned. On the 22d of May, 1753, Rev, Mr. Hawley, Deacon Timothy Woodbridge and Rev, Mr, Ashley aad wife (the latter as interpreter, hav ing been a prisoner among the Indians), set out from Stock- bridge, on their way to Oquago for the purpose of re-estab lishing the mission at that place, where they arrived June 4th, after many hardships and troubles. Deacon Wood- bridge was induced to make the journey, on account of his great experience and wisdom, to aid in arranging questions respecting the mission, and returned in a few weeks. Mr. and Mrs. Ashley did not long remain, but returned to New England. Rev, Mr, Hawley remained several years,'and xxx. J INDIANS. 861 untU he was compelled to abandon the mission by. the events of the war with France. ¦ President Edwards took a deep in terest in this mission, and sent his son, a' lad of nine yeaSB, to learn the Indian language under the care of Mr. Hawley, but after remaining a year, his longer stay was considered unsafe, and he was intrusted to a faithful Indian, who re turned him to his father, carrying him much of the way upon his back. In 1770, Rev. Mr. Ashley was a missionary at Oquago, and he was succeeded by Rev. Mr. Crosby. Mr. Ashley mentions Rev. Messrs. Peter and Henry Avery, as mission aries among the Tuscaroras, Onondagas, and also at Oquago. The author, it wiU be seen, has omitted to name the Indians at Oquago, for the reason that he has not satisfactorily learn ed to what tribes they belonged, but he believes they were mainly Oneidas and Tuscaroras. By some authors they are caUed Oquagas. The labors of Mr. Kirkland have been noticed somewhat at length in the history of the town of Kirkland, but as a historic truth, the author would here re-state the fact, that Hamilton College was projected and founded for the special benefit ofthe Indians. Those of the Oneidas who became converts to Christianity under the ministry of the Rev. Mr. Kirkland, have been known as a distinct party in treaties, documents and convey ances as the -' Fii-st Christian Party of the Oneida Nation." But for several years Mr. Kirkland resided near Clinton, his labors had been divided, and the mission declined so that this party included but about one tenth of the nation. Rev. Mr. Jenkins labored as a missionary with this people for several years after the death of Mr. Kirkland In 1816, a mission was established at Oneida, by Bishop Hobart, of the Protestant Episcopal Church. In this year, 862 ANNALS at OMEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP Mr. Eleazar Williams was selected by tbe bishop to take the charge of the mission. He was the (reputed) son of Thomas WUUams, a distinguidied chief of the Mohawk branch of the St. Regis tribe, and was a descendant of Rev. John Williams, who^ with his family and parishioners, was taken captive by the French and Indians at Deerfield, Mas sachusetts, in 1704. Mr. Eleazar Williams had been libe rally educated (as a Presbyterian) for the purpose of being useful among his people — and now having become an Epis copalian, he was selected as a cateehist, lay-reader and school teacher at Oneida. (Rev. Eleazar WiUiams is the same person respecting whom so much has been said for a few years past, in the attempts to show that he is the lost Dau phin, the son of the unfortunate Louis XVI, whose fate has heretofore been enshrouded in mystery. Whether he should rightfuUy have been Louis XVII or not, is an interesting question, but now of Uttle practical importance.) Previous to the year 1816, a large portion of the Oneida Nation had continued firmly and obstinately attached to the religion of their fathers, and were known as the Pagan Party. Such was the success of Mr. WUliams, that on the 25th of January, 1817, a large number of the tribe sent an address to Gover nor DeWitt Clinton, in which they declared that they had fully and cheerfully embraced the doctrines of Christianity, abjuring Paganism, and requesting henceforth to be known and called the " Second Christian Party of the Oneida Nation.'' This address was adopted in council, and signed by eleven chiefs and head men On the 13th of September, 1818, Bishop Hobart visited the mission and confirmed 89 young persons, and in 1819, 56 more ; and, including these, there were upwards of 500 confirmed at this place during the eontinuance of the mission. In 1818, the Second Christian Party sold a piece of land, to enablo them to erect a chapel, xxx] INDIANS. 863 whioh was consecrated by Bishop Hobart, September 21, 1 8 19, by the title of St. Peter's Church. In 1 822, Mr. Solo mon Davis succeeded Mr. Williams, the latter having remov ed to Green Bay with a large portion of tho Oneida Nation, where he established a mission under the auspices of the Missionary Society of the Protestant Episcopal Church. In 1826, Mr. WUliams was ordained as a deacon, while upon a visit to Oneida Castle ; and, in 1829, Mr. Davis was admitted to the order of priests. In 1833, Mr. Davis removed to Green Bay, with another portion of the Nation, where the mission has been continued with success. In 1840, the house of worship before named was sold and removed to Vernon, where it was re-erected and has since been occupied by the Unitarian Society. Methodist Mission. — In 1829, a mission ehurch was formed at Oneida, by Rev. Dan Barnes, with twenty-four Indian members. The success of the mission was but small until 1841, when Rev. Rosman Ingals was appointed missionary at Oneida and Onondaga — he preaching three Lord's days at the former and one at the latter place each month. In August, 1846, Mr. Ingals was succeeded by Rev. Daniel Paneher, as missionary at both stations, since which the mission has been quite successful, and it is thought both stations will be soon able to sustain themselves. In 1841, a house for worship was erected at Oneida, but standing upon the lands sold in 1 843, was sold with them, and another house was ereeted in 1844. These missions at Oneida and Onondaga have been kept united, because the latter required the assis tance of the Oneidas, " who are by far the most susceptible of religious impressions and improvement." The Indians at Oneida support a common school, in which the children make good improvement, and which is attended by some of the " pale faced" chUdren living in the neighborhood. €64 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [cHAP, The author has not room to devote to a description of the peculiar manners, customs, religious belief and ceremonies, and superstitions ofthe Indians, for it' would require a vol ume. The once imposing ceremonies of their councils, their dances and songs for various occasions, their observances and mythology, are all fast becoming lost and forgotten among themselves, from neglect and disuse, because occasions for them cease to recur, and because they feel that as a people they are wasting away — indeed because they have ceased to be the Konoshioni, being broken, scattered and dispirited. The Iroquois all believed in witches, and about 1805, oc curred the last execution at Oneida for witchcraft. Two women suff'ered for this supposed crime, Han Yost, an In dian, somewhat noted in the Revolution, was chosen execu tioner, and he entered their lodge and tomahawked them ac cording to the decree of a council. Luke Hitchcock, Esq., then a lad, was present at the execution. Celebrated Oneida Chiefs. — If the pages of history do not show as long a list of most distinguished chiefs and warriors ofthe Oneida nation, as of some of the others, it ia because the names and deeds of their great men have not been pre served. Early writers upon t'ne Iroq-jols speak of the Onei das as displaying the greatest talents in council and diploma cy, while in prowess and courage they were equals with any of the Six Nations. According to tradition, Otatschechta was the chief or deleg'ate from the Oneidas, who aided in forming the confederacy of the Five Nations, and that the good spirit who presided over and directed their councils, ad dressed the Oneidas in concluding the ceremonies: ''and you Oneidas, a people who recline your bodies against the everlasting Stone that cannot be moved, shall be the second Nation, because you give -itise counsel." In 1655, Atondu- t-3ehan is mentioned by the Fr-snch as a distinguished Oneida XXX.] INDIANS. 865 chief, who had visited Canada, and exerted a powerful influ ence among the Iroquois. A long list of Oneida chiefs, who have attended councils and signed treaties and other papers for two hundred years past, might be made, but little or nothing else could be said of them. Among the chiefs who aided in enlisting the Oneidas in behalf ofthe Americans, during the Revolution, was one who has usually worn the sobriquet of Plattcopf He was the junior of Scanandoa, and is said not to have exerted an equal infiuence; but, notwithstanding, by the fire of his eloquence and the force of his reasoning, he often bound the attention and swayed the passions of the Oneida nation, British gold and ancient friendships often tempted the cupidity and loy alty of the Oneidas, but were as often; met by appeals and invectives of their' orators, who served the cause of truth and justice, by a recital of the wrongs, injuries and rights of the Colonists, Messrs. Kirkland and Dean kept these ora tors fully prepared with materials for their speeches, Scanandoa. — But the name which stands more prominent ly upon the page of history, and which will be remembered until the original inhabitants of this continent are forgotten, is that of Scanandoa, " the white man's friend," He was born about the year 1706, but of his younger days little or nothing is known. It has been stated, but upon wliat authority the writer does not know, that he was not an Oneida by birth, but was a native of a tribe living a long distance to the north-west, and was adopted by the Oneidas when a young man, (He may have belonged to the Necaria-' guas, who lived north of Mackinaw, but a considerable' body of whom came in 1722, and were adopted by the Six Nations aud soon became intermingled with them,) In his youth and earlier manhood, Scanandoa was very savage and intem perate. In 1755, while attending upon a treaty in Albany, 55 S66 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTT, [cHA?, he became excessively drunk at night, and 'in the morning found himself divested of all his ornaments and clothing. His pride revolting at his self-degradation, he resolved never again to place himself under the power of '-'-fire water]' a resolution which it is believed he kept to the end of .;hi3 life. In appearance he was noble, dignified and commanding, being in heighth much over six feet, and the tallest Indian in his nation. He possessed a powerful frame,' for at the age'of 65 he was a full match for any member of his tribe, either as to strength or speed on foot; his powers of endurance were equal to his size and physical power. But it was to his elo quence and mental poweis he owed his reputation and influ ence. His person was tattooed, or marked in a , peculiar manner. There were nine lines, arranged by threes, extend ing downwards from each shoulder, and meeting upon the chest, made by introducing some dark coloring matter under the skin. He was in " his riper years one of the noblest counsellors among the North American tribes ; he possessed a vigorous mind, and was alike sagacious, active, and perse vering. ' As an enemy, he was terrible — as a friend and ally he was mild and gentle in his disposition, and faithful to his engagements. His vigilance once preserved from massacre the inhabitants of the little settlement at German Flats ; and in the revolutionary war his influence induced the Oneidas to take up arms ia favor of the Americans." Soon after Mr. Kirkland established his mission at Oneida, Scanandoa em braced the doctrines of the Gospel, and for the rest of his life he lived a consistent Christian. He often repeated the wish that he might be buried by the side of his old teacher and spiritual father, that he might " go up with him at the great resurrection;" and several times in the latter years of 'his life he made the journey from Oneida to Clinton, hoping to die there. " Although he could Speak but little English, and Xxx. J INDIANS. '867 in his extreme old age waa blind, yet his company 'wa; songfat. In conversation he was highly decorous, evincing that he had profited by seeing civilized and polished societv. and by mingUng in good company in Ma better days." He evinced constant care not to give pain by any remark er reply. Upon oae occasion he was visited by a party of young ladies, who found him at his house reclining upon a. coach. He was then blind. After the introduction by Miss Kirk land, who was oae of the party, S(^nandoa asked, " are thu. ladies married P Upon being answered in the n^ative, ho responded, •• it is wdl, for there are many bad men I'- Miss Kirkland, who had seen much of tie chie^ said to her friends laat ifhe had received an affirmative answer, he would prol- ably have r-;ponded, "it is weU, if you have got good hus- i.ands.'' To . Prof Ncrton. of HamUton CoUege, upo:: rrceiviaET a sinJlar arswer, he responded, "itis vxil. tiiere a.'- many had :;•:/.>;«? ."' To a friend who called upon him a short time before Li;- dacease. he thus expressed himself by an interpreter : ¦* I am an aged hemlock : the 'winds of an hundred winters Liv? w'cistled thr.Dni'h my branches; I am dead at the top. The •eaeraiion i:- shieh I belonged have mn away and left me : vrhy I live, t'ne Great Good Spirit only knowe: pray to my Jesus that I may have j alienee to wait for mj appointed time to die." An eloquence and beauty of sentiment v^ci. i;ave been admired ly mUUons in many lands, and which have been seldom equalled by the most eloquent or bes: ot' ancienz or modern times. After listenics to the prayers read at his bed-side by his great-grandanghter, Scanandoa yielded np his spirit on ihe 1 1 th day of March, 1816, aged about 1 1 0 years. Agreeably to a promise made by the famUy of Mr. Kirkland, his remains were brought to CUnton, and buried by the side of 868 ANNALS OF ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP. his spiritual father. Services were attended in the Congre gational meeting-house in Clinton, and an address was made to the Indians by Dr. Backus, President of Hamilton Col lege, interpreted by Judge Dean, and after prayer, and sing ing appropriate psalms, the corpse was carried to the grave, preceded by the Students of the College, and followed in order by Indians ; Mrs. Kirkland and family ; Judge Dean ; Rev. Dr. Norton ; Rev. Mr. Ayres ; Officers of the College ; Citizens. Scanandoa was buried in the garden of Mr. Kirkland, a short distance south of the road leading up to the College. A handsome monument stands in the College burying ground, with the following inscription : " Skenandoa. This Monument is erected by the Northern Mis sionary Society, in testimony of their respect for the memory of Skenandoa, who died in the peace and hope of the Gospel, on the Ilth of Maroh, 1816. Wise, eloquent and brave, he long swayed the Councils of his Tribe, whose confidence and affection he eminently enjoyed. In the war which placed the Canadas under the cro'wn of Great Britain, he was actively engaged against the French ; iu that ofthe Eevoluti^on, he espoused' that of the Colonies, and ever after ward remained "a firm friend to the United States, Under the min istry of the Kev. Mr. Kirkland he embraced the doctrines of the Gospel ; and having exhibited their power in a long life, adorned by every Christian virtue, he fell asleep in Jesus, at the advanced age of one hundred years," Present Condition of Oneidas. — As has been stated, the great body of the Oneidas removed to Green Bay, at differ ent periods between 1822 and 1833; and families and small parties have emigrated since that period. By the Report of the U, S, Indian Agent in 1849, it seems that the Oneidas at Green Bay were still in a very prosperous condition. The old and familiar names of " First Christian Party," and " Orchard Party," were stUl retained, XXX.] - IIJDIANS. 869 the former beifig under the Episeopal and the latter under • Methodist missions. The schools of toth are taught in En^ gUsh, Those schools numbered 100 scholars. "The tribe is steadily advancing in civiUzation ; their farms improve in appearance year by year, and their nianner of living assimi lates more and more to that of the whites," The use of whis key seems to be the main hindrance to their advancement ; but their chiefs are adopting the wise policy of suppressing the traffic in the article among them. Those at Green Bay numbered in 1849 eight hundred and thirty-six souls. In 1845, there were upon the Oneida Reservation (in Lenox), at Oneida Castle, in all, thirty-one families of Onei das ; 71 males and 86 females ; total 157; besides owe Dela ware, one Mohawk, one St. Regis, and four Stockbridge. Of these 133 were still professed pagans, the remainder attending upon the Methodist mission. They own 421 acres of land, some of which is tolerably Well improved, considering. Sev eral of the Indians live in framed houses, some of which are painted ; and their farms show considerable industry. In October. 1851, the author visited this remnantof a once great nation. Upon entering their honses the females were uniformly found engaged in manufacturing various fancy arti cles, ornamented with beadsj^nd for sale upon the rail-road, or in making clothing for their families. Among other Indians he saw Daniel Scanandoa, a great-grandson of the chief / His mother was a Mohawk, which according to the Indian laws of descent would make him a Mohawk ; but he has doubtless been adopted by the Oneidas, His wife's mother, widow Betsey Denney, now aUhost 80, lives with him. She says her mother lived at Oquago, but marrying a Mohawk removed to the Mohawk Castle, below Pall HiU, where Betsey was born. Betsey says that during the Revolution she Uved near Niag ara, which shows that her father acted with the British. 870- ANNALS OF- ONEIDA COUNTY. [CHAP, Another relic of the past now living, is widow Jenny Doxta- der, in her 91st year. She was born at Oquago, where her mother resided and was married ; but her parents removed to Oneida, and during " the war at Fort Stanwix," her family, with many of the tribe, resided at Schenectady. She says that many of the Oneidas remained at Oneida Castle and Fort Stanwix during the war — that she well knew Mr, Kirk land and Judge Dean, She can speak very little English, (Christian Beechtree is a chief at present better known among the "whites" than the other chiefs of whom there are several. Sally, the grand-daughter of Scanandoa, once known as the -' Oneida beauty," and who married Han Yost, a somewhat noted Indian, is still living at Green Bay, past ninety years of age. When the author saw her, about fifty years ago, she possessed a very tall, graceful, yet majestic figure, with a face and carriage whioh might well be the envy of a modern bello. There are five families of the " Orchard P.arty" residing in the south part of Vernon. Indian Names of Persons. — In the early settlement of the country, the Indians frequently gave names to those with whom they had much intercourse, and these were generally significant of some trait or circumstance. The author has been able to preserve or procure kut very few, whioh are here given. To Judge James Dean they gave the name of Co- logh-qua-deal, i. e. Circle around the Sun ; to Abraham Van Eps — To-tinion-ton, i. e. Handsome Garter ; Nathan Davis — Scogh-nox,i,e,i^(3a; ; Daniel Petrie — Tah-une. i.e, Tl^^(Messrs. Davis and Petrie received their name while clerks for Mr. Van Eps). Samuel Laird — Sesse-lo-'wah, and his wife, Mrs. ^lary Laird — Conne-ah-quint, the names of a chief and his wife ; Salmon Laird — Law-ne-goh-lee, i.e. Good Heart ; Silas Phelps— Ki-an-de-lon-go, i.e. Smooth Wood; WiUiam Phelps — Oteali.e.Racoon ; Mrs. Jedediah Phelps — Yon-ga-nole, i.e. SXX.] INDIANS, 871 Sliower of Rain ; John Phelps— ToMon-go, L e. Duck. (This name was given him when a boy ; he used to ferry the Indi ans in a canoe across Fish Creek at, the, Forks,) George H untington — A-i-o, i, e. Handsome. To those acquainted with the persons named, these names will not fail to bring to mind some peculiarity or trait of character or manners. Names rf Localities. — Much confusion has grown out of the attempt to obtain the Indian names of lakes, streams, and places, owing to the differences in pronunciation in the several tribes, and also the fact that the same object wa.« known by a varietj' of names. For example the name of Oneida Castle is pronounced by the Oneidas, Ca-no-wa-lo-a ; by the Mohawks, Ga-no-wa-lo-har-la ; the Tuscaroras, Ka-no- w.a-no-hate ; the Onondagas, Ga-no-wi-ha ; Cayugas, Ga-no-a- o-a ; the Seneeas, Ga-no-a-o-ha ; — each signifying '• Enemy's- head-on-a-pole," The author gives the names of waters and places within the county, according to the best of his ability, with the significations, when known. The Onondagas call Oneida Lake, Se-ugh-ka, i, e. Striped with blue and white lines (waves) diverging and coming together again. It has also been called Techtroguen Lake ; Techiroguen Lake ; Kanoaloka Lake ; Onida-ho-go Lake ; Tsiroqui Lake ; but it is believed the Indians never call it Oneida Lake, Tege-soken, Fish Creek, i,e. Bet-ween the mouths. A-on-ta-gillon, Branch of Fish Cr'k, Creefc of poin* o/ro