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ALER'S HISTORY

OP

MARTiSBURG AND BERKELEY CO,, f.VA.

Ccurt House, Martinsburg, Berkeley County.

©
ALER'S HISTORY.

OF

MARTINSBURG

AND

BERKELEY eQUNTY,
WEST VIRGINIA.

From the origin of the Indians, embracing their Settleme}its, Wars and
Depredations, to the first White Settlement of the Valley; also
including the Wars between the Settlers and their mode
and manner of living. Besides a variety of valua
ble information, consisting of the past and
present History of the County, including
M complete sketch of the late Wars,
Strikes, early Residents, Organi
sations, etc., accompanied by
personal sketches andiii-
teresting facts of
the present
day.

BjjF. VERjYO.Y ALEB.

Price $2.00 ; Sold Only by Subscription.

PKIHTED FOR THE AUTHOR BY
THE MAIL PUBLISHING COMPANY,
HAGERSTOWN, MD.

Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1838, by
F. Vbknok Alee,
in the Office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington.
All Rights Reserved.

PREFACE.

In idle wishes fools .supinely stay,
Be there a will, then wisdom finds a w.^y.
— Burns.
^^~ N presenting this work to the public I feel
that a great responsibility has been undertaken.
It may, no doubt, meet with the harsh criticism of
many ; but as a consolation I feel satisfied that
nothing but facts have been stated, and that every reader
interested in the growth, prosperity and history of
Berkeley County will appreciate this honest attempt. I
have ventured this work on the market, feeling confident
that the interested class — the people that have labored
for our City and County— the ones that owe and feel a
debt of gratitude to their forefathers for the present
stage of their existence and welfare of the County — will
sustain me in my efforts.
The present generation, now enjoying the benefits of
this soil, perhaps, have a very small concei)tion as to the
manner in which it was settled, cultivated and reared to
its present state of prosperity. Perhaps many may doubt
the credibility of these chapters, but I would ask a peru
sal and careful examination of early history, and by in
formation from our old citizens, you will find my collec
tions have not fallen far short of facts. Several attempts,
in various ways, have been made to give a history and
reminiscence of our County ; but as yet none had been
published full and complete, until the introduction of
this work. It will be found to contain from the origin
of the Indian and White Settlers, and their early war
fares, to the present day, accompanied by a complete
history of both Martinsburg and Berkeley County.

Preface. 11
For days, weeks and months, and at times into the mid-
hour of night, constant and laborious work has been a
theme and pleasure, to dive into the torn and rusty
pages of an old Court docket — some half-printed histo
ries, published over half a century ago — or some old
newspapers upon which ink was almost invisible, and
then to scan the hand- writing of years gone by, that one
would hardly recognize as the English language.
To the following gentlemen, Berkeley's most able and
respected citizens, I owe a debt of gratitude for their as
sistance in the work of publishing this small history :
Senator C. J. Faulkner, C. W. Doll, Esq., James M.
Vanmetre, Esq., Capt. Wm. Hoke, Hon. E. B. Faulk
ner, J. W. Curtis, Esq., and Stuart W. Walker, Esq.,
who acted at times as my critic and rendered valuable
assistance. Considerable information has been taken
from a small history of the valley published by Safnuel
Kercheval in 1833.
I look around me and see the young of both sexes with
hearts bounding high with hope, forms elastic with
health and eyes bright with the enjoyment of life, and
then the thought of the rude settlements, life and civili
zation of our fore-parents touches the tenderest chord.
To tell them of how they performed the journey of life,
hand in hand, interrupted now and then by the savage
warfare, and after all lived in harmonious companion
ship, I have published this work. It has been with me
an honest and earnest task, in the object of which I am
sure you will feel interested. I only hope that you will
find little to criticise and nothing to condemn, in the na
ture and style of the means by which I have sought to
accomplish it.- Then I shall feel that my undertaking
has been crowned with success by a non-condemnatory
people in a worthy and honest purpose.
Yours very truly,
F. Veknon Alee.

CONTENTS

PAGE.
Introductory  15
CHAPTEK L
Origin of the Indian Settlements. The different Tribes. Their
Wars, Customs, Habits, etc  25
CHAPTER II.
First Settlements of the Valley. Locations, Land Titles, Dwellings,
etc  32
CHAPTER III.
The Indian Warfare. Forts Established, etc. The Wars between
the Settlers and Indians, and the manner in which they carried
on their Barbarism  38
CHAPTEK IV.
Houses, Furniture, Diet and Dress of the early Settlers. Interest
ing and amusing Scenes of centuries back of our Foreparents... . 47
CHAPTER V.
Northern Neck of Virginia. Berkeley County laid off. The Laud
Grants, etc., from Lord Fairfax's time to the establishment of
the County  .-.  54
CHAPTER VI.
Martinsburg established. The Lots laid off by the first Commission
ed Sheriff. Sale of Lots, with terras to purchasers  61
CHAPTER VII.
Report of Hon. C. J. Faulkner on Adjustment of the Boundary Line
between Virginia and Maryland  67
CHAPTER VIII.
Historical Sketches of the early Inhabitants, etc., by the late Horl.
Charles .lames Faulkner  87
CHAPTER IX.
Slavery— Mode and Manner of Punishment— Freedom  200
CHAPTER X.
The late War of the Rebellion. The diff'ereut Companies of Berkeley
County, Federal and Confederate, with full Names, Happenings,
etc  209
CHAPTER XI.
Historical Reminiscence of Martinsburg from 1835 until the year
ISfil, by John, W. Curtis  249

Cmdenis. 13
CHAPTER xn. PAGE.
Commencing and ending of Strikes. A full and complete detail of
the Happenings, Incidents, etc  300
CHAPTER XIII. -
Life of the late Hon. Charles James Faulkner, by Col. Frank A. Burr. 314
CHAPTER XIV.
The Churches— Organization and present Condition  343
CHAPTER Xy.
Berkeley County in 1810. Topographical Description. Natural
Curiosities. Mineralogy and Lithology. Inhabitants, Towns, ~
Manufactories, etc  :  36(;
CHAPTER XVI.
Present situation of the Town and County— Journalism in the
County— County Court and Officials — Martinsburg Schools —
Heme Organizations, Lodges, etc  377
CHAPTER XVII.
Personal Sketches of the Enterprising Public and Professional Men
of the present day  397
CHAPTER XVIII.
Biography of Martinsburg's Business Men  412

INTRODUCTORY.

' HE Indian origin and settlements contained
in the following chapters will be found to em
brace every particular trait and detail so famil
iar to the race. Berkeley County, without doubt,
will be found to be among the most historic pages of the
world' s history. For centuries its soils were inhabited
by the most barbarous races, whom, it seems, carried out
the habits and customs of ages past to their fullest ex
tent. From what particular part of the old world the
aboriginals found their way to this continent is a ques
tion which has given rise to much disquisition among
philosophical and learned historians. However, it ap
pears to be a settled opinion that America first received
its inhabitants from Asia, and in Mr. Snowden's History
of America many able and ingenious arguments are ad
vanced in support of this opinion. This is a matter,
however, familiar to our people of the present day, and
to describe the customs of the old world, from whence
they originated, will perhaps, prove of interest to the
reader. Mr. Snowden states :
"The custom of scalping was a barbarism in use with
the Scythians, who carried about them at all times this
savage mark of triumph. A little image found among
the Kalmucs, of a Tartarian diety mounted on a horse
and sitting on a human skin, with scalps pendant from
the breast, fully illustrates the custom of the ancient
Scythians, as described by the Greek historian. The
ferocity of this race to their prisoners extended to the
remotest part of Asia. The Kamtschatkans, even at the
time of their discovery by the Russians, put their priso
ners to death by the most lingering and excruciating tor-

16 lairodiictory.
ments. A race of the Scythians were named Anthropo
phagi, from their feeding on human flesh. The people
of Nootka Sound still make a repast on their fellow
creatures. The savages of North America have been
known to throw the mangled limbs of their prisoners
into the horrible caldron and devour them with the same
relish as those of a quadruped."
These usages were continued for centuries, and have
been described by many as of a horrid experience.
Among the aboriginal Americans these i)ractices are said
to be in fall force at the present day.

FIRST SETTLExMENT OF VIRGINIA.
After giving the foregoing brief sketch of the i)roba-
ble origin of the Indians in America, it is deemed an im
portant part of this work to give a brief history of the
first settlement of Virginia, and the laws then in force,
which will not be unacceptable to the general reader.
The author, having access to the large law libraries of
Faulkner & Walker, has been enabled to gain much val
uable information, and would refer the reader wishing
to make a deeper research, to Hening's Statutes at Large,
vol. 1, page 57.
Charters to two separate companies called the "Lon
don and Plymouth Companies," for settling colonies in
Virginia, were granted by James I, King of England, on
the 10th day of April, 1606. On the 20th of December,
1606, Capt. Christopher Newport was sent to Virginia
by the London Company with a colony of one hundred
and five persons, and instructions to settle on the island
of Roanoke, now in North Carolina. However, by stress
of weather, they were driven North of their destination,
and entered Chesapeake Bay. From here they ascended
what they called the James River, and on a beautiful
peninsula commenced the settlement of Jamestown about
May, 1607. This was the first permanent settlement in

Introductory. 17
the country. King James granted several subsequent
charters to the company for the better ordering and gov
ernment of the colony, "and in the year 1619 the first
legislative council was convened at Jamestown, then
called 'James City.' " The following is the commission
to Sir Francis Wyatt, the first Governor under that ordi
nance and constitution, to call a meeting of the Generals,
Assembly :
"J'Ae Treasurer and Uompany\H Commission to Sir-
Francis Wyatt, Governor, and Council, which saidi
Council are to assist the Governor in the administration!
of justice, to advance Christianity among Indians, to-
erect the colony in obedience to his majesty and in main
taining the people in justice and christian conversation,
and strengthening them against enemies. The said Gov
ernor, Council and two burgesses out of every town, hun
dred or plantation, to be chosen by the inhabitants, to
make up a General Assembly, who are to decide all mat
ters by the greater number of voices ; but the Governor
is to have a negative voice, to have power to make orders
and acts necessary wherein they are to initiate the poli
cy of the form of government, laws, customs, manner of
trial and other administration of justice used in England,
as the company are required by their letters patent. No
law to continue or be of force till ratified by a quarter
court to be held in England and returned under seal.
After the colony is well framed and settled, no order of
quarter court in England shall bind till ratified by the
General Assembly."
"Dated 24th July, 1621."
'¦'¦instructions to Governor Wyatt."
"By instructions dated 24th July, 1621 : To keep up
religion of the Church of England as near as may be ; to
be obedient to the King and do justice after the form of
the laws of England, and not to injure the natives ; and
to forget old quarrels now buried.
"To be industrious and suppress drunkenness, gaming

.1-8 Introductory.
and excess in deaths ; not to permit any but the Coun
cil and heads of hundreds to wear gold in their cloaths
or to wear silk till they make it themselves.
' 'Not to offend any foreign princes ; to punish pira
cies ; to build fortresses and block-houses at the mouths
of the rivers.
"To use means to convert the heathens, viz., to con
•verse with some ; each town to teach some children fit
for the college intended to be built.
"After Sir George Yeardley has gathered the present
year's crop, he is to deliver to Sir Francis Wyatt the
hundred tenants belonging .to Governor's place; Yeard
ley' s government to expire the 18th November next, and
then Wyatt to be published Governor ; to swear the
Council. "George Saudis appointed treasurer, and he is to put in
execution all orders or court about staple commodities ;
to whom is allotted fifteen hundred acres and fifty ten
ants ; to the marshall, Sir William Newce, the same ; to
the company's deputy the same; to the physician five
hundred acres and twenty tenants, and the same to the
secretary. "To review the commissions to Sir George Yeardley,
Governor, and the Council, dated 18th November, 1618,
for dividing the colony into cities, boroughs, &c., and to
observe all former instructions (a copy whereof was sent)
if they did not contradict the present ; and all orders of
court (made in England.)
"To make a catalogue of the people in every planta
tion, and their conditions ; and of deaths, marriages and
christenings. "To take care of dead persons' estates for the right
owners ; and keep a list of all cattle, and cause the sec
retary to return copies of the premises once a year.
"To take care of every plantation upon the death of
their chief ; not to plant above one hundred jjounds o^
tobacco per head ; to sow great quantities of corn for

Introductory. 19
their own use, and to support the multitudes to be sent
yearly ; to inclose lands ; to keep cows, swine, poultry,
&c., and particularly kyne, which are not to be killed
yet. "Next to corn, plant mulberry trees and make silk,
and take care of the Frenchman and others sent about
that work ; to try silk grass ; to plant abundance of
vines and take care of the vignerors sent.
"To put prentices to trades, and not let them forsake
their trades for planting tobacco or any such useless
commodity. "To take care of the Dutch sent to build saw-mills, and
seat them at the falls that they may bring their timber
by the current of the water.
"To build saw-mills and block-houses in every planta
tion. "That all contracts in England or Virginia be per
formed, and the breaches punished according to justice.
"Tenants not to be enticed away ; to take care of those
sent about an iron work, and especially Mr. John Berke-
* ley, that they don't miscarry again, this being the great
est hope and expectation of the colonies.
"To make salt, pitch, tar, soap, ashes, &c., so often
recommended and for which materials had been sent ; to
make oyl of walnuts and employ apothecaries in distil
ling lees of beer and searching after minerals, dyes,
gums and drugs, &c., and send small quantities home.
"To make small quantity of tobacco, and that very
good ; that the houses appointed for the reception of
new-comers and public storehouses be built, kept clean,
&c. ; to send the state of affairs quarterly and a duplicate
next shipping.
"To take care of Capt. Wm. Norton and certain Ital
ians sent to set up a glass house.
"A copy of the^treatise of the plantation business and
excellent observances made by a gentleman of 'capacity

20 Introductory.
is s«nt to lie among the records, and recommended to
the councillors to study.
"Mr William Clayborne, a surveyor, sent to survey the
planters' lands and make a map of the country.
"Chief officers that have tenants reprimanded for
taking fees, but require that the clerks have fees set for
passes, warrants, copies of orders, &c.
"Governor and Council to appoint proper times for
administration of justice, and provide for the entertain
ment of the Council during their session, to be together
one whole month about state affairs and lawsuits ; to
record plaints of consequence ; to keep a register of the
acts of quarter sessions and send home copies.
"If a Governor dies, the major part of Council to choose
one of themselves within fourteen days, but if voices be
divided the Lieutenant Governor shall have the place,
and next the marshal], next the treasurer, and one of
the two deputies next.
"Governor and chief officers not to let out their tenants
as usual.
"The Governor only to summon the Council and sign
warrants and execute, or give authority to execute"
Council orders, except in cases that do belong to the
marshal], treasurer, deputies, &c.
"The Governor to have absolute authority to deter
mine and punish all neglects and contempts of authority
except the Council, who are to be tried at the quarter
sessions and censured. Governor to have but the cast
ing voice in Council or court, but in the Assembly a neg
ative voice.
"That care be taken that there be no engrossing com
modity or forestalling the market.
"All servants to fare alike in the colony, and their
punish tnentjf or any offences is to serve the colony in
public works. ,
"To see that the Earl of Pembroke's thirty thousand
acres be very good.

Introductory. 21
"To make discoveries along the coast and find a fish
ery between James River and Cape Cod.
"As to raising staple commodities, the chief officers
ought to set examples and to aim at the establishment
of the colony.
"Artd lastly, not to let ships stay long, and to freight
them with walnut and any less valuable commodity.
The Governor administered the following oath to the
Council :
"You shall swear to be a true and faithful servant
unto the king's majesty, as one of his Council for Vir
ginia. You shall in all things to be moved, treated,
and debated in that Council concerning Virginia or
any the territories of America, betweeh the degrees of
thirty-four and forty-five from the equinoctial line
northward, or the trades thereof, faithfully and truly
declare your mind and opinion, according to your heart
and conscience ; and shall keep secret all matters com
mitted and revealed to you concerning the same, and
that shall be treated secretly in that Council, or this
Council of Virginia, or the more jjart of them, publi
cation shall not be made thereof ; and of all matters of
great importance, or difliculty, before you resolve
thereupon, you shall make his majesty's Privy Coun
cil acquainted therewith, and follow their direction
therein. You shall to your uttermost bear faith and
allegiance to the King's majesty, his heirs, and lawful
successors, and shall assist and defend all jurisdictions,
preheminences, and authorities granted unto bis ma
jesty and annext unto the crown against all foreign
I)rinces, persons, prelates or potentates whatsoever, be
it by act of parliament or otherwise ; and generally,
in all things, you shall do as a faithful and true ser
vant and subject ought to do. So help you God and
the holy contents of tliis book." •
The foregoing instructions were drawn up by the
Council, and it appears, Avere intended as the general

22 Introductory.
principles for the government of the colony. They go
far to prove that hopes were entertained that the Indians
were disposed to be at peace, and evidences an amicable
state of feeling towards the natives. Unfortunately
their hopes were blasted, for lo ! in less than one year
after, this state of peace and tranquility was changed
into one of devastation, blood and mourning. On the
22nd of March, 1622, the Indians committed the most
bloody massacre on the colonists recorded in the annals
of our country. This year has been stated by historians
as the American revolution, and was remarkable for
massacres of the colonists by the Indians, which were
executed with the utmost subtility, and without any re
gard to age, sex or dignity.
In 1623, the following year, the Colonial General As
sembly, by statute, directed "that the 22nd day of March
be yearly solemnized as holliday," to commemorate the
escape of the colony from entire extirpation. These
bloody massacres produced, on the part of the whites,
a most deadly and irreconcilable hatred toward the na
tives, and accordingly, we find that a long continued and
unabating state of hostility was kept up. At the legis
lative session of 1628, laws were enacted in relation to a
defense against the savages. About one hundred years
later the Indians were driven east of the Blue Ridge
Mountains, and scattered over the surrounding country,
hence, their origin on Berkeley soil.
The foregoing extracts are considered sufficient to
enable the reader to form some opinion of the spirit,
character and customs of the early settlers of our coun
try ; particularly as it relates to their sufferings and
difficulties with the Indian tribes, and goes far to prove
their origin in our country and the veracity of the con
tents of this book.
Some may ask, of what interest are the extracts from
Hening's Statutes at Large? In return I would ask, who
would place confidence in my work without it was based

Introductory. 23
on a reliable foundation ? The extracts, after given a
study and careful consideration, will prove of much in
terest and enable the reader to form a quaint idea of the
origin and introduction of our laws, customs, religion,
habits, manufactures, etc., of the present day in our
country and county.
Prior to the Independence of the United States, the
popular branch of Virginia Colonial Legislation was
known as "The House of Burgesses." It enacted its
laws under the provincial charter granted by the English
government, to whom its allegiance was due. The
"House of Burgesses," by its enactments from time to
time laid off the territory into counties, as the interests
of its increasing population demanded.
At a session of the legislature, Frederick and Augusta
were laid off about the year 1738, and included all the
vast region of country west of the Blue Ridge mountain.
Previous to that time the county of Orange included all
the territory west of the mountains, and was taken from
Spotsylvania in 1734, which had previously crossed the
mountain and took in considerable part of what is now
known as Page County. Sjpot'sylvania was laid off in
1720, and was reduced by the laying off of Frederick
in 1738. The first court of justice was held in this county
in 1743. The county of Hampshire was next taken from
Frederick and Augusta in 1753. The first court held in
this county was in December 1757. Berkeley and Dun-
more were taken from Frederick in 1772, and in 1777 the
name of Dunmore was altered to Shenandoah.
I deem it a particular and interesting part of this work
to give the dates of the establishment of these counties,
as the following chapters in various ways relate
to them. It will be noticed that Berkeley was among
the earliest, and many incidents happened on its soil,
before the laying off of other counties. It included all
that territory composing Jeffersod County from 1772
until 1801, a period of nearly thirty years. Martinsburg

24 Introductory.
was laid off in the month of October, 1778, by Adam
Stephen, Esq., and consisted of one hundred and thirty
acres. In October, 1786, Charlestown (then in the county
of Berkeley and now the seat of justice for the county of
Jefferson) was established. It consisted of eighty acres,
and was laid off by Charles Washington, a brother of
the illustrious George Washington. He laid off his own
land into lots and streets, and in honor of his act the
town bears his christian name to the present day. In
the month of October, 1787, Middletown, (now called
Gerardstown,) in the county of Berkeley, was estab
lished, with one hundred lots laid off by Wm. Gerard.
Darkesville, also in Berkeley County, was laid off in Oc
tober, 1791. The establishment of these towns are among
the earliest of the valley.

CHAPTER I.
ORIGIN OF THE INDIAN SETTLEMENTS.
p^pROM ancient history it appears that this entire por-
i^l tion of country (Berkeley County) was inhabited by
various tribes of Indians. From the best evidence ob
tained from deep researches, we find tiie settlement of
this valley and present county was commenced in the
year 1732. Long and bloody wars were carried on by
contending tribes of Indians known as the Delaware and
Catawba tribes. They were engaged in these wars at the
time the valley was first knowji by the white pf'ople, and
continued for years after the county was numerously
inhabited bj' white settlers.
The two great branches of tlie Potomac and Shenan
doah rivers seem to have been the favorite places of resi
dence of the Indians. Along these streams are to be
found numerous &igns and relics at the present day. In
the bank of the river, a short distance below the forks,
human skeletons and articles of curious workmanship
are constantly being unearthed. Indian mounds are
scattered over the entire county, and it is no unusual oc
currence to hear that Indian jiipes, tomahawks, axes,
utensils, etc., are being yt-t found. Their cups and pots
were made of a mixture of clay and shells, and though
the vi^orkmanship Avas rude, yet they were strong in tex
ture. There are many other places on all our water
courses, to wit. Cedar Creek, Stony Creek and Opequon,
as well as the larger water courses, that exhibit evidences
of ancient Indian settlements.
This portion of the country was inhabited chiefly by
a tribe known as the Tuscarora Indians, their x)lace of
residence being on Tuscarora Creek, from which the

26 Origin of the Indian Settlements.
creek derived its name. Along this stream are a num
ber of Indian graves now marked, while many have
been plowed down. Skeletons and bones of unusual size
have been turned up by the plow. It appears to the author
that no reflecting man can view so many burying places
broken up — their bones torn up with the plow — reduced
to dust and scattered to the winds — without feeling some
degree of melancholy regret. It is to be lamented for
another reason. If those mounds and places of burial
had been permitted to remain undisturbed, they would
have stood as lasting monuments in the history of our
country. Many of them were doubtless the work of
ages, and future generations would have contemplated
them with great interest and curiosity. But these mem
orials are rapidly disappearing, and the time, perhaps,
will come when not a trace of them will remain.
It is in no way wonderful that this unfortunate race of
people reluctantly yielded, and with all their force re
sisted the intrusion made upon their rightful and just
possessions by peojjle who were strangers to them from
a foreign country. But, perhaps, this was the fiat of
Heaven. In the creation of this globe God probably in
tended it should sustain the greatest possible number of
his creatures. And as the human family, in a state of
civil life, increases with more rapidity than a people in
a state of nature or savage life, the law of force has been
generally resorted to, and the weaker compelled to give
way to the stronger. It is a fact undeniable that the
greater portion of our country has been obtained by the
law of force. However, as a matter of consoling reflec
tion, there are some exceptions to this arbitrary rule.
Several respectable individuals of the Quaker society
thought it unjust to take possession of these lands, and
adopted measures to effect some way of compensating
the Indians for their just rights. Upon inquiry no par
ticular tribe could be found that claimed a priority over
the soil. It was considered by the various tribes a com-

Origin of the Indian Settlements. 27
mon hunting ground, and neither claimed authority to sell.
To confirm the authenticity of this statement it is
deemed proper to publish the following letter, written
by Thomas Chaulkley to a monthly meeting that was
held on Opequon on the 21st of May,* 1738, and is a
strong evidence. The following is from the original
copy: "Virginia, at John Cheagles, 21st May, 1738.
" Jb Friends of the Monthly Meeting at Opequon :
Dear friends who inhabit Shenandoah and Opequon :
Having a concern for your welfare and prosperity, both
now and hereafter, and also the prosperity of your chil
dren, I had a desire to see you, but being in years and
heavy, and much spent and fatigued with my long jour-
neyings in Virginia and Carolina, makes it seem too hard
for me to perform a visit in person to you, wherefore I
take this way of writing to discharge my mind of what
lies weighty thereon ; and
"First. I desire that you be careful (being far and back
inhabitants) to keep a friendly correspondenbe with the
native Indians,, giving them no occasion of offense, they
being a cruel and merciless enemy, where they think they
are wronged or defrauded of their rights, as woeful ex
perience hath taught in Carolina, Virginia and Maryland,
and especially in New England, etc.; and
"Second. As nature hath given them and their fore
fathers the possession of this continent of America (or
this wilderness) they had a material right thereto in jus
tice and equity ; and no people, according to the law of
nature and justice and our own princiijle. which is ac
cording to the glorious gospel of our dear and holy Jesus
Christ, ought to take away or settle on other men's lands
or rights without consent, or purchasing the same by
agreement of parties concerned ; which I suppose in your
case is not yet done.
"Thirdly. Therefore my counsel and christian advice
*The people of that day numbered the mouth.

28 Origin of the Indian Settlements.
to you is, my dear friends, that the most reputable
among you do with speed endeavor to agree with and
purchase your lands of the native Indians or inhabitants.
Take example of our worthy and honorable late proprie
tor, William Penn, who by his wise and religious care
in that relation hath settled a lasting peace and com
merce with the natives, and through his prudent man
agement therein hath been instiumental to plant in peace
one of the most flourishing provinces in the world.
"Fourthly. Who would run the risk of the lives of
their wives and children for the sparing a little cost and
pains? 'I am concerned to lay these things before you,
under an uncommon exercise of mind, that your new and
flourishing little settlement may not be laid waste, and
(if the providence of the Almighty doth not intervene,)
some of the blood of yourselves, wives or children be
shed or spilt on the ground.
"Fifthly. Consider you are in the province of Virginia,
holding what rights you have under that government,
and the Virginians have made an agreement with the
natives to go as far as the mountains and no further ;
and you are over and beyond the mountains, therefore
out of that agreement, by which you lie open to the in
sults and incursions of the Southern Indians, who have
destroyed many of the inhabitants of Carolina and Vir
ginia, and even now have destroyed more on the like
occasion. The English going beyond the bonnds of their
agreement, eleven of them were killed by the Indians
while we were traveling in Virginia.
"Sixthly. If yoLi believe yourselves to be within the
bounds of William Penn's patent from Kirtg Charles the
Second, which will be hard for you to prove, you being
far southward of his line, yet if done that will be no
consideration with the Indians without a purchase from
them, excei)t you will go about to convince them by fire
and sword, contrary to our principles ; and if that were

Origin of the Indian Settlements. -29
done they would ever be implacable enemies and the
land could never be enjoyed in i)eace.
"Seventhly. Please to note that in Pennsylvania no
new settlements are made without an agreement with the
natives, as witness Lancaster County, lately settled,
though that is far within the grant of William Penn's
patent from King Charles the Second ; wherefore you
lie open to the insurrections of the Northern as well as
Southern Indians ; and
"Lastly. Thus having shown my good will to you and
to your new settlement, that you might sit '-very one
under your own shady tree where none might make you
afraid, and that you might prosper naturally and spirit
ually, you and your children ; and having a little eased
my mind of that weight and concern (in some measure)
that lay upon me, I at present desist and subscribe my
self, in the love of our Holy Lord Jesus Christ, your real
friend, T. C."
This good man proves, through his most excellent let
ter, that Quakers were among our earliest settlers, and
that they were early disposed to do justice to the natives
of the country. It is highly probable that the white
people might have obtained possession of the soil grad
ually without so much loss of blood if they had first
adopted and adhered to this humane and just policy of
purchasing the Indians' lands.
Historians and records give considerable evidence of
proof that repeated purchases were made, covering the
lower portion of the county, while records show that
nearly all of the upper portion was purchased. Tradi
tion relates that several tracts of land were purchased by
Quakers, near what is now known as Apple-Pie Ridge,
and that the Indians were never known to disturb them
while residing on the land so purchased.
It, however, affords matter of curious speculation and
interesting reflection to the inquiring mind, to notice in
this chapter several of the wars that took i^lace in and

30 Origin of the Indian Settlements.
near this county. That nations are frequently urged to
war and devastation by the restless and turbulent dispo
sition so common to mankind, particularly among their
leaders, is a question of little doubt. The glory and re
nown (falsely so termed) of great achievements in war, is
probably one principal cause of the wars frequently car
ried on by people in a state of nature.
We have already stated the Indians that inhabited this
portion of the country were known as the Delawares and
Catawba tribe. Tradition relates that these two tribes
of Indians exterminated a tribe called the Senedos that
resided on the Shenandoah River, near this county. An
aged Indian frequently visited the settlers, and on one
occasion informed an old settler, Benjamin Allen, that
these "tribes of Indians had killed his whole nation,
Avith the exception of himself and one youth ; that this
bloody slaughter took place when he (the Indian) was a
small boy." From the tradition it is probable the affair
took place some time shortly after the middle of the
seventeenth century. Tradition also relates that an old
Indian visited Mayor Andrew Keyser' s grandfather, of
Pennsylvania, and asked for something to eat, appear
ing to be much agitated. After refreshing himself he
Avas asked what disturbed him. He replied, "The South
ern Indians — Delawares and Catawbas — have killed my
whole nation." History states that evident signs of the
truth of this tradition are yet to be seen — that near the
place of residence of the Senedos, on the north fork of
the Shenandoah River, an Indian mound, Avhen first
seen, was 18 or 20 feet high, but is now ploughed down.
The Delawares were af terAvard in constant wars with
the Catawbas, and at times infiicted the most cruel pun
ishments. The former, we are told, AA^as a much larger
and stronger tribe than the latter, and tortured the Ca-
taAvbas to death with all the wonted barbarity and
cruelty peculiar to the savage character.
A party of Delaware Indians, as tradition relates.

Origin of the Indian Settlem.ents. 31
crossed the Potomac near Oldtown, in Maryland, with a
female Catawba prisoner. A short distance from this
place occurred a very remarkable instance of their sacri
fices. They cruelly murdered their prisoner and moved
on. The next day several of them returned and cut off
the soles of her feet in order to prevent her from pursu
ing and haunting them on the march.
This great tribe made the last sacrifice of their Catawba
prisoners, near Pennsylvania. A number of prisoners
were slowly tortured to death, and during their pro
tracted and cruel sufferings their tormentors used the
most insulting language, tantalizing and threatening them
with the terrible vengeance of their nation as long as they
could speak.
This bloody tragedy soon reached the ears of the Gov
ernor of Pennsylvania, and he at once commanded and
required all the authorities, both civil and military, to
interpose and prohibit a repetition of such acts of bar
barity and cruelty.

CHAPTER II.
FIRST SETTLEMENTS OP THE VA.LLEY.
IpN the year 1732, Joist Hite Avith his family, and his
1^ sons-in-law,viz: George Bowman, Jacob Chrisman and
Paul Froman, Avitli their families ; Robert McKay, Robert
Green, William Duff, Peter Stephens, and several others,
making sixteen families in all, removed from Pennsylva
nia, cutting their road from York and crossing the Co-
horigoruton* about two miles above Harper's Ferry.
Hite settled on the 0})equoTi. Peter Stephens and several
others settled at Stephensburg and founded the toAvn.
The several families settled in the same neighborhood,
adjoining each other, AA'here tliey could find wood and
water most convenient. The most authentic information,
handed down from one generation to another, leads us to
believe that Hite and his party of immigrants were the
first settlers west of the Blue Ridge.
John and Isaac Vanmetre next obtained a warrant
from Governor Gooch for locating 40,000 acres of land,
in the year 1730. They sold or transferred part of their
warrant to Joist Hite ; and from this warrant emanated
several of Hite's grants. Of the titles to the lands on
which Hite settled, with several other tracts in the neigh
borhood of Stephensburg, the originals are founded on
this Avarrant. In 1734 Richard Morgan obtained a grant
for a tract of land in the immediate neighborhood of
ShepherdstoAA'u. Thefirst settlers on this tract numbered
about tAventy-five.
Tradition relates that a man by the name of John How
ard, and his son, previous to the first settlement of our
*Cohongoruton is the ancient Indian name of the Potomac, from its
junction with the river Shenandoali to the Alleghaney Slountalus.

First Settlements of the Valley. 33
valley, made explorations and discovered the charming
South Branch Valley. They crossed the Alleghaney
mountains, and on, the Ohio killed a very large buffalo,
Avhich they skinned, and stretching his hide over ribs of
wood made a kind of boat. In ihis frail bark they de
scended the Ohio and Mississippi to New Orleans, where
the French apprehended them as suspicious characters^
and made them prisoners. HoAvever, they were dis^
charged, from whence they crossed over to England.
Lord Fairfax,* living in England at the time, heard of
Mr. Howard's arriA-al, and sought an interview with him.
Mr. Howard gave him a description o'f the fertility and
immense value of the South Branch, Avhich determined
his lordship to secure it at once in manors. Notwith
standing the selfish monopoly on the part of Lord Fair
fax, numerous tenants were induced, by the great fertility
and value of the country, to take leases, settle and im
prove the lands. At an early period many immigrants
settled on Capon, (anciently called Cacaphon, which is
said to be the Indian name) ; also on Lost river. Along
Back Creek, Cedar Creek, and Opequon, pretty numer
ous settlements were made. The tAvo great branches of
the upper forks of the Shenandoah were among our ear
liest settlements. Surveys were made on a warrant along
the Opequon, north of Winchester, to Apple-Pie Ridge,
by an enterprising Quaker, named Ross. Numerous im
migrants of the Quaker profession removed from Penn
sylvania, and as early as the year 1738 held regular
monthly meetings on Opequon. ' The west side of the
Shenandoah below the forks were first settled by over
seers and slaves. Another survey was granted, which
lies immediately below the above lines, running a con
siderable distance into the county of Jefferson. The
greater portion of the country betAveen North mountain
and the Shenandoah River, at the first settling of the
*The reader should note Lord Fairfax, as considerable mention is made
in the following chapters.

34 First Sttilements of the Valley.
valley was one vast prairie, and afforded the finest pos
sible pasturage for wild animals. The country bounded
in the larger kinds of game, such as the buffalo, elk,
deer, bear, panther, Avild-cat, wolf, fox, beaver, otter,
and all other kinds of animals, wild fowl, etc., common
to forest countries, were abundant.
The country, now the county of Shenandoah, between
^the Fort and North Mountains was also settled very
'early. The settlements through the valley progressed
without interruption for about twenty-three years. The
Indians suddenly disappeared in the year 1754, and
-crossed the Alleghaney mountains. Settlers west of the
-Alleghaney moved into their midst and invited them to
IQOve off. The Indians did not object to the Pennsylva-
nians settling the country, from the fact of William
Penn' s treatment toward them. They believedall Penn' s
men to be honest, virtuous, humane and benevolent ; but
fatal experience taught them quite a different lesson, and
they soon found Pennsylvanians Avere little better than
others. The native's held in utter abhorrence the Vir
ginians, whom they designated as "Long Knife," and
Avere literally opposed to their settling in the valley.
Tradition informs us of the fact, that the Indians and
white people resided in the same neighborhood for sev
eral years after the first settlement, and that the Indians
were friendly and peaceable. During this period many
good, substantial dwelling houses had been erected, and
the settlements Avere in a flourishing condition.
Some years previous to the first settlement of the val
ley, a man by the name of John Vanmetre, from New
York, discovered the fine country on the Wappatomaka,
(the ancient Indian name of the South Branch of the
Potomac.) He was a kind of Avandering Indian trader,
and became well acquainted with the Delawares. A
company was formed among them, and under his com
mand marched to the South for the purpose of invading
ithe Catawbas. However, the Catawbas had anticipated

First Settlements of the Valley. 35
them and encountered and defeated them with immense
slaughter. When Mr. Vanmetre returned to New York,
he advised his sons, that if they ever migrated to Vir
ginia, to secure a part of the South Branch bottom. He
described it as "The Trough," and the finest body of
land he had ever seen. One of his sons, Isaac Vanmetre,
who was about to migrate, took his father's advice, and
about the year 1736 or 1737, settled in Virginia. Mr.
Vanmetre returned to NeAv Jersey shortly af terAvard, and
in 1740 came back, only to find other settlers on his place.
He went back to New Jersey again, and in 1744 returned
with his family to make a permanent settlem^ent. In the
meantime a large number had settled in the neighbor
hood, and already much progress could be noted.
Maj. Isaac Hite once stated, "that numerous parties
of Indians in passing his grandfather' s house on Opequon,
would call, and that but one instance of theft was ever
committed." The Indians charge the Avhite people with
teaching them the knowledge of theft and other vices.
After the chiefs had received information of a theft search
was made until the article found, and the one in posses
sion of it was punished severely. These facts go far to
show their high sense of honesty and summary justice.
An educated old Cherokee chief in a conversation with
Col. Barrett, one of the commissioners for running the
boundary line of Indian lands in 1815-16, remarked :
"That before their fathers were acquainted with the
whites, the red people needed but little, and that little
the Great Spirit gave them, the forest supplying them
with food and raiment ; that before their fathers were
acquainted with the white people, they never got drunk,
because they had nothing to make them drunk, and
never committed theft because they had no temptation
to do so. It was true that when parties were out hunt
ing, and one party was unsuccessful, and found the game
of the more successful party hung up, if they needed
provision they took it ; and this Avas not stealing^t Avas

36 First Sdtlernents of the Valley.
the law and custom of the tribes. Red people never
swore, because they had no Avords to express an oath.
The red people meet once a year, at the feast of new corn,
extinguish all their fires and kindle up a new one, the
smoke of which 'ascends to the Great Spirit as agreateful
sacrifice. Now what better is your religion than ours %
The Avhite people have taught us to get drunk, steal, lie,
cheat and swear, and with a knowledge of these vices
they uphold them ; therefore, we are injured by acquain
tance Avith them."
To say the least of this untutored old man, his opinion,"
religion excepted, was well founded and conveys a severe
rebuke upon those who boast of superior advantages of
the lights of education and a knowledge of the religion
of God. From this digression let us again turn our at
tention to the early settlers.
In 1768 many of them were giving their time and atten
tion to rearing large herds of horses, cattle, hogs, etc.
Some of them became expert, hardy and adventurous
hunters, and depended chiefly for support and money-
making on the sale of( skins and furs. Considerable
attention was given to the culture of the pea vine, which
grew abundantly fat in the summer season. The Hites,
Frys, Vanmetres and others raised vast stocks of horses,
cattle and hogs in those days, upon which Lord Fairfax
highly commented at times.
The majority of our first immigrants Avere princijially
from Pennsylvania, composed of native Germans or Ger
man extraction. A number, however, were direct from
Germany, and several from Maryland, NeAv Jersey and
' New York. These immigrants brought with them the
religion, ci;istoms and habits of their ancestors. They
constituted three religious sects, viz: Lutherans, Men-
onists and Calvanists, with a few Tunkers, and were very
strict in their worship.
Land Avas the object Avhich invited the greater numbei'
of these people to cross the mountain ; for as the saying

First Settlements of the Valley. 37
then Avas, "itAvas to be had here for the taking up."
Building a cabin and raising a crop of grain, however
small, of any kind, entitled the occupant to four hundred
acres of land, and a pre-emption right to one thousand
acres more adjoining, to be secured by a land office Avar-
rant. This right was to take effect il there hapjiened to
be so much vacant land, or any part thereof, adjoining
the tract secured by the settlement right. There Avas, at
an early period of our settlements, an inferior kind of
land title, denominated a "tomahawk right," which was
made by deadening a few trees near the head of a spring,
and marking the bark of some one or more of them with
the initials of the name of the person Avho made the im
provement. These rights were often bought and sold.
Those who Avished to make settlements on their favorite
tracts of land, bought up the tomahawk improvements,
rather than enter into quarrels with those Avho made
them. Other improvers of the land with a view to actual
settlement, and who happened to be stout veteran fel
lows, took a very different course from that of purchas
ing these rights. When annoyed by the claimants under
the tomahaAvk rights, they deliberately cut a few good
h-ickories, and gave them Avhat was called in those days
" a laced jacket," or a sound whipping.
The buildings occupied a low situation, and the tops
of the surrounding hills Avere the boundaries of the tracts
to Avhich the family mansion belonged. Our forefathers
were fond of farms of this description, and believed that
they Avere attended with the convenience, "that every
thing comes to the house doAvn hill."

CHAPTER III.
THE INDIAN WARFARE.
^apBOUT the year 1756 this whole frontier Avas left ex-
^j^ posed to the incursions of the Indians and French,
who had returned to this neighborhood after the defeat of
General Braddock by the French and Indians combined.
In the spring of the year a pa^ty of fifty or more Indians,
with a French captain at their head, crossed the Allegha
ny Mountains, committing on the white settlers every
act of barbarous Avar. Capt. Jeremiah Smith, living in
Avhat is now knoAvn as Frederick County,. raised a party
of tAventy men and marched out to meet the savages. At
the head of Capon River he fell in Avith them, when a
fierce and bloody battle was fought. Smith killed the
captain with his own hand. After having killed five
other Indians and wounding a number, the savages gave
Avay and fled. Only tAvo of Smith' s men Avere killed. On
searching the body of the Frenchman a commission and
written instructions were found in his possession to meet
another party of about 50 Indians at Fort Frederick*, to
attack the fort, destroy it, and bloAV uj) the magazine.
Fortunately, the other party of Indians Avere encountered
loAV down on the North Branch of the Capon River by
Capt. Joshua LeAvis, with a party of IS men, Avhen one
Indian was killed and the others broke and ran off.
Previous to the defeat of this party they had committed
considerable destruction of the property of the white
settlers, and took a Mrs. Horner and a girl about 13
years of age prisoners. Mrs. Horner AA^as the mother of
seven or eight children, and never returned to her family.
*Fbrt Frederick is situated about 12 miles from Miirtinbburg, in Mary"
land.

The Indian Warfare. 39
The girl, Sarah Gibbons, was a prisoner 8 or 9 years be
fore she returned home.
These Indians dispersed into small parties, and carried
the work of death and desolation into several neighbor
hoods, in the counties now Berkeley, Frederick and
Shenandoah. About 18 or 20 of them crossed the North
Mountain at Mill's Gap, in the county of Berkeley, killed
a man by the name of Kelly, and several of his family.
This massacre occurred about one mile from Gerards
town. The Indians then passed on to the present site of
Martinsburg. About two miles from the latter place a
stockade was built, and known as the John Evans fort,
in which the neighboring people generally took shelter.
(The land on which this fort stands is now situated south
of our town, and owned by a Mr. Fryatt.) A small party
of Indians attacked the dwelling house of a Mr. Evans,
a brother to the owner of the fort ; but being beaten off
they went in pursuit of a reinforcement. In their ab
sence, Mr. Evans and his family made their escape to the
fort. The Indians returned and fired the house, which
was situated three miles south of town, near the Big
Spring. These Indians took a female prisoner ,on the
same day, at John Strode' s house. A boy by the name
of Hackney, on his way to the fort, met and advised her
not to go to the house, as Strode' s entire family had gone
to the fort, and the Indians had possession of the house.
She disregarded the advice of the boy, went to the house,
was seized by the Indians and made a prisoner. The boy
Avent back to the fort and told what had happened ; but
the men had all turned out to bury Kelly, and Avent in
pursuit of the Indians, leaving nobody to defend the fort
but the Avomen and children. Mrs. Evans armed herself,
and called on all the women, avIio had firmness enough to
aim, to join her ; and such as Avere too timid she ordered
to run bullets. She then made a boy beat "to arms" on
a drum. The Indians became much alarmed at this, and
after firing Strode' s house made a hasty retreat, Avhen

40 The Indian Warfare.
they discovered the party of Avhite men just mentioned
and fired upon them, to no effect. The latter finding the
Indians too sttong for them, retreated to the fort.
After a captivity of three years, the girl spoken of as
being made a prisoner, returned to her home. Mrs.
Evans is the great-grandmother of our worthy and esti
mable citizen, Mr. James M. Vanmetre, now living a
short distance south of town, and other brothers scattered.
Tillitson Evans, six brothers, and many others of her
great-grand children are living at the present day.
The Indians, from thence, passed on to Opequon, and
the next morning attacked Neally's fort, massacred most
of the people, and took a number of prisoners, among
whom Avere a Mr. Cohoon and Avife, and a family of small
children. Mrs. Cohoon being unable to travel fast
enough, her husband was forced ahead, in order to mur
der her. Cohoon, however, heard her screams, and that
night made his escape.
The Indians proceeded as far as the vicinity of Fort
Pleasant* with several prisoners, and then divided them
selves into two parties, in order to watch the fort. At a
late hour in the night, Mrs. Neff, a prisoner, escaped to
the fort and informed the inmates of the Indians where
abouts. On the following day another party joined the
fort, and on the next morning sixteen men, well mounted
and armed, left the fort Avith a vicAv to attack the Indi
ans, Avho AA'ere soon discovered by their camp fires. The
whites separated in tAvo parties, intending to close in
upon the Indians, but however AA-ere discovered by the
latter, Avho Avere alarmed by the barking of a dog. The
Indians cautiously moved off betAveen the two parties of
Avhite men unobserved, and taking a position betAA^een
them and their horses, opened a most destructive fire.
The whites stood their ground Avith great firmness and
*rort Pleasant was a strong stockade with block houses, erected on the
lands formerly owned by Isaac V.inmotrc, on -the South Branch of the
Potomac.

The Indian Warfare. 41
bravery, and a desperate and bloodj'^ conflict ensued.
Seven of the whites w^ere killed and four Avounded.
Three Indians fell in this conflict and several Avere seri
ously wounded. The men of the fort Avere compelled to
retreat, and their horses AA^ere secured by the victors.
Just before this action commenced, Mr. Vanmetre, an
old man, mounted his horse, rode upon a high lidge, and
witnessed the battle. He returned Avith all speed to the
fort and gave notice of the defeat. He Avas killed by the
Indians in 1757.
Near about this year a Mr. Williams resided on Pat
terson's Creek. Heariiig of the approach of the Indians
he repaired with his neighbors to Fort Pleasant for secu
rity, a distance of nine miles. After remaining here a
few days, supposing their houses might be revisited with
safety, Mr. W., with seven others, crossed the mountain
for that purpose. On reaching the creek they separated
and Mr. Williams went to his farm alone. Having tied
his horse to « bush he commenced salting his cattle,
when seven Indians stepped between him and his horse
and demanded a surrender. His only answer Avas a ball
from his rifle that laid one of their number Ioav to the
ground. The Indians then retreated to the housf>. and
barricading the doors began firing through the AvindoAA's.
Mr. Williams hid behind a hominy block in a corner,
from which he fired at his assailants through the cracks
of the building, as opportunity offered. In this Avay he
killed five out of the s^ven. The remaining two Avould
not give up their prey, but resolved to proceed more cau
tiously, and going to the least exposed side of the house,
one Avas raised u^ion the shoulders of the other to an
opening in the logs some distance above the level of Mr.
Williams, who consequently did not observe their manoe
uvre, andin this AA-ay the Indian shot him. His body AA'as
instantly taken, cut in quarters and hung to the four
corners of the building. His head was stuck upon a
fence stake in front of the door.

42 The Indian Warfare.
In the year 1757, a numerous body of Indians crossed
the Alleghany, and, as usual, divided themselves into
small parties, hovering about the different forts, and
committing many acts of murder and destruction to
property. Near about the year 1758, a party of about 50
Indians and 4 Frenchmen penetrated into the neighbor
hood of Mill Creek, now in this county. This was a
pretty thickly settled neighborhood, and among other
houses, George Painter had erected a large log one, Avith
a commodious cellar. On the alarm being given, the
neighboring people took refuge in this house. Late in
the afternoon they were attacked. Mr. Painter attempted
to fly, but had three balls shot through his body and fell
dead. The others surrendered, and the Indians then
dragged the dead body back to the house, threw it iu)
plundered the house, and set fire to it. While the house
was in flames, consuming the body of Mr. Painter, they
forced from the arms of their mothers four infant chil
dren, hung them up in trees, shot them iu savage sport,
and left them hanging. They then set fire to a stable,
containing a parcel of sheep and calves, thus cruelly and
Avantonly torturing to death the inoffensive dumb ani
mals. The Indians then made a hasty retreat, taking
Avith them about 48 prisoners. After six days' travel
they reached their villages west of the Alleghany moun
tains. A council was held and determined upon to sac
rifice their helpless prisoner, Jacob Fisher, a lad 12 or 18
years old, who was, with his parents and other children,
taken captives. They first ordered the boy to collect a
quantity of dry Avood. The poor little felloAV shuddered,
burst into tears, and told his father they intended to
burn him. "I hope not," said his father, and adA'ised
him to obey. When he had collected a sufficient quan
tity of wood to answer their purpose, they cleared and
smoothed a ring around a sapling, to Avliich they tied
him by one hand, then formed a trail of wood around the
tree and set it on fire. The poor boy AA-as then compelled

The Indian Warfare. 43
to run around in this ring of fire until his rope wound
him up to the sapling, and then back until he came in
contact with the flame, whilst his infernal tormentors
were drinking, singing, and dancing around him with a
horrid joy. This was continued for several hours, during
which time the savages became beastly drunk, and as
they fell prostrate to the ground, the squaws would keep
up the fire. With long, sharp poles, prepared for the
purpose, they would pierce the body of their victim
when he flagged, until the poor, helpless boy, fell and
expired with the most excruciating torments. The family
were compelled to be witnesses of the heart-rending
tragedy. These outrages of the Indians drove many of the white
settlers below the Blue Ridge, and broke up the settle
ments through this locality. About the year 1758 there
were two white men who disguised themselves in the
habit of Indians, and appeared in the neighborhood of
the i^resent site of Martinsburg. Supposed to be Indians
they Avere pursued and killed, and it Avas no uncommon
thing for scoundrels and rascals to act in this manner.
Their object Avas to frighten people to leave their homes,
that they might rob and plunder them of their valuable
articles. At Hedge's fort, on the present road from Mar
tinsburg to Bath, Avest of Back Creek, a man was killed
while Avatching the spring. In the years 1773-74, nu
merous conflicts and bloody battles occurred betAveen
the whites and Indians. About the 1st of May, 1774,
during Gov. Dunmore' s reign, the whites Avere growing
in strength, and in large numbers commenced war on the
savages with marked effect.
MASSACRE AT FORT NEALLY IN 1756 — ROMANTIC STORY
OF ISABELLA STOCKTON, OF BERKELEY COUNTY.
[Extract from an historical address delivered by the
late Hon. Charles J. Faulkner, at the UniA-ersity of West
Virginia, in June, 1875 :]
"There is one incident connected Avith the early his-

44 The IndioM Warfare.
tory of the county in Avhich I reside which may possibly
prove interesting to the fairer portion of my audience.
It rests upon authentic evidence. I spoke of the mas
sacre of Neally [Fort, on the Opequon Creek, in the
county of Berkeley. It Avas about daylight, on the 17th
of September, 1756, that a roving band of Indians sur
prised that little fort and murdered and scalped all they
found in it. On their return from this bloody work they
passed the house of Wm. Stockton, east of the North
Mountain, who, about one hour before their arrival, un
conscious of danger, had gone with his wife about two
miles distant to perform the last duties to a dying neigh
bor, leaving their children at home. The Indians seized
two of these children, George, a boy of fourteen years,
and Isabella, a girl then ten years of age, and carried
them off as captives to the north. George, who Avas ^
youth of remarkable energy and spirit, after a captivity
of three years, made his escape and returned to his home
in Berkeley County, AA'ith his feelings deeply embittered
against the Indians and their allies, the French. Isa
bella Stockton, after being Avith them something up
wards of a month, was sold by them to a Avealthy Cana
dian trader, Avho took her to his home near Montreal,
and being touched by the artless manners and prepos
sessing qualities of the child, bestowed, Avith his wife,
every care on her education and training Avhich the con
dition of the countrA^ then permitted. At sixteen years
of age she had developed into a girl of extraordinary
beauty and attractions. At this time there arrived from
France a nei>hew of the trader of the name of Jean Bap-
tiste Plata, a young man highly educated and of the no
blest and most chivalric traits of character Living in
the same house with Isabella, a mutual attachment soon
sprang up between them, and in about one year he made
known to his uncle his [jurpose to ask her hand in mar
riage. The uncle approved his purpose, and the young
man opened tlie subject to Isabella. She told him that

The Indian Warfare. 45
she could not disguise from him her deep attachment to
him, but she felt compelled to disclose to him what she '
had never before breathed to any human being — some
thing of her early history. When but ten years of age
she had been torn as a captive from her parents by the
Indians, and had been sold to his uncle. The images of
her dear father and mother had been continually present
to her mind from that day to this. Her dreams had
kept their faces and features as fresh and vivid in her
memory as if she had seen them every day, and she did
not feel that she could, with satisfaction to hi-rself,
change her relations in life until she had once more revis
ited her home in Virginia, and if her parents Avere still
alive, to ask their consent to the proposed marriage.
The young Frenchman promptly offered to take her to
her parents, not for a moment doubting that they would
cordially ratify his union with their daughter He ac
cordingly procured the necessary horses from his uncle,
and they started on their long and perilous journey.
They arrived safely in the county of Berkeley, and he
delivered her into the embraces of her astonished and
delighted parents. For a few days all was gladness and
joy. But as soon as it was communicated to them that
the young Frenchman Avas engaged to and desired their
daughter in marriage, then all the animosity of the per
secuted settler sprang up in their bosoms. A Frenchman
at that day was more hateful to a West Virginia back
woodsman than even a Shawnee Indian, for they regarded
them as the instigators and fomenters of 'all the cold
blooded murders and barbarities which had drenched
their settlements in blood. His proposal of marriage
was rejected ; he was even ordered to leave the house,
but he lingered long enough in the neighborhood to ma
ture an arrangement with Isabella by which he might
effect her escape and both return to Canada. Availing
himself of the opportunity when the father and George
were absent on a hunt across the North Mountain, the

46 The Indian Warfare.
two lovers started upon their journey northward. The
day after their departure the father and son returned,
when the enraged father, discovering the flight, gave his
orders to the fiery and impetuous George to go imme
diately in pursuit and "to bring Isabella back, dead or
alive, for he would rather see her a corpse than hear of'
her marriage Avith a Frenchman." MeauAvhile the fugi
tives had crossed the Potomac ; they had forded the
Juniata, and they had reached the Avest bank of the Sus
quehanna, in the county noAV called Lycoming, in Penn
sylvania, where they were detained by a sudden rise in
the waters of that river. Here the furious and maddened
' George, whose temper had not been improved by a three
year's servitude among the Indians, overtook the aston
ished lovers. The scene that followed was as brief as it
was bloody. He demanded the return of his sister. She
refused to go back. Her lover interposed, and in two
minutes the brave and chivalrous Frenchman lay a bleed
ing corpse in the arms of the agonized Isabella. History
does not inform us Avliat disposition was made of the
dead body of Jean Baptiste Plata, but the lovely Isabella,
crushed in all her earthly affections, was brought almost
a raving maniac to her father" s house. Ten years elapsed
before her mind recovei'ed its accustomed tone and vigor,
when she married a gentleman of the name of Wm.
McCleery, and they removed from Berkeley to Morgan-
town." However, for quite a lengthy period afterward the In
dians continued hostile and bitter in their dejpredations.
Powerful armies of the whites were raised, and have at
last succeeded in almost terminating Indian existence.

CHAPTER IV.
HOUSES, FURNITURE, DIET AND DRESS OF THE
EARLY SETTLERS.
CORRECT and detailed view of the origin and
mode of living, and their progress from one condi
tion or point of wealth, science and civilization, to
another, is always highly interesting, even when received
through the dusky medium of history. But when this
retrospect of things past and gone is drawn from the rec
ollections and experiences of old and venerable citizens,
and handed down to the rising generation, the impres
sions it makes on the heart are of the most vivid, deep
and lasting kind. The municipal, as well as ecclesiasti
cal institutions of society, whether good or bad, in con
sequence of their long continued use, give a corresponding
cast to the public character of society, whose conduct
they direct, and the more so because in the lapse of time
the observance of them becomes a matter of conscience.
The settlement of a new country in the immediate neigh
borhood of an old one, is not attended with much diffi
culty, because supplies can be readily obtained from the
latter ; but the settlement of a country very remote from
any cultivated region, is a very different thing ; because
at the outset, food, raiment, and the implements of
husbandry, are obtained only in small supplies and with
great difficulty. The task of making new establishments
in a remote Avilderhess, in time of profound peace, is
sufficiently difficult ; but when, in addition to all the
unavoidable hardships attendant on this business, those
resulting from an extensive and furious warfare with
savages are superadded ; toil, privations and sufferings,
are then carried to the full extent of the capacity of men

48 Houses, Furniture, &c., of the Early Settlers.
to endure them. Such Avas the wretched condition of
our forefathers in making their settlements here, and to
all their difficulties and privations, the Indian war was a
weighty addition.
The following history of the poverty, labors, suffer
ings, manners and customs, of our forefather.", will
appear like a collection of "tales of olden tim^es," with
out any garnish of language to spoil the original portraits,
by giving them shades of coloring which they did not
possess. A spot was selected on a piece of land for their habita
tion, and a day appointed for commencing the Avork of
building their cabin. The fatigue party consisted of
choppers, whose busine>s it was to fell the trees and cut
them off at proper lengths— a man with his team for
hauling them to the i)lace and arranging them — and a
carpenter, if he might be called such, Avhose business it
was to search the Avoods for a proj^er tree for making
clapboards for the roof. The materials for the cabin
were mostly prepared on the first day, and sometimes the
foundation laid in the evening ; the second day was
allotted for the raising. In the morning of the next day
the neighbors collected for the raising. The first thing
to be done was the election of four corner men, Avhose
business it was to notch and place the logs, the rest of
the company furnishing them Avith the timbers. In the
meantime the boards and puncheons Avere collected for
the floor and roof, so that by the time the cabin was a
few rounds high, the sleepers and floor began to be laid.
Openings were afterAvard made for the door, windows
and chimney. The roof was formed by making the end
logs shorter until a single log formed the comb of the
roof. On these logs the clapboards were placed and lap
ped over each considerable distance, which Avere held in
their proper places by logs being placed upon them.
The Germans were more uniform in the building of
their cabins, and their barn was usually the best build-

Houses, Furniture, &c., of the Early Settlers. 49
ing on the farm. Their dwelling houses Avere seldom
raised more than a single story, Avith a large cellar un
derneath. In the upper floor garners for holding grain
were very common. A piazza was a very common appen
dage, in which their saddles, bridles and very frequently
the wagon or plow harness Avere hung up.
In the above has been given a description of the dwel
lings of the early settlers, and to make mention of the
furniture, diet and dress used in those days may proba
bly prove of interest. The furniture for the table for
several years after the settlement of this locality consisted
of a few pewter dishes, plates and spoons, but mostly of
wooden bowls, trenchers and noggins. If the latter were
scarce, gourds and hard- shelled squashes made up the
deficiency. The iron pots, knives and forks were brought
from the east side of the mountains, along with the salt
and iron, on pack-horses. The table was generally fixed
in one corner of the stove room, with permanent benches
on one side. Their beds were filled with straw or chaff,
with a fine feather-bed for the covering.
These articles of furniture corresponded very well with
the articles of diet on which they were employed. Hog
and hominy Avere proverbial for the dish of which they
were the component parts. Johnny cake and pone were,
at the outset of the settlement of the country, the only
forms of bread in use for breakfast and dinner. At sup
per milk and mush were the standard dish. When milk
was not plenty, which was often the case, owing to the
scarcity of cattle or the want of proper pasture for them,
the substantial dish of hominy had to supply the place
of them. Mush was frequently eaten with sweetened
water, molasses, bear's oil, or the gravy of fried meat.
Every family cultivated an acre or more, which they
called "truck patches," and raised a variety of vegeta
bles. The natural result of this kind of rural life was to
produce a hardy and vigorous race of people. It was

50 Houses, Furniture, &c., of tJie Early Settlers .
'this race of people Avho had to meet and breast the vari
ous Indian Avars and the storms of the revolution.
On the frontiers, and particularly amongst those who
were much in the habit of hunting, and going on scouts
and campaigns, the dress of the men, resembled partly
that of the Indian and the civilized nations. The hunt
ing skirt was universally worn. This was a kind of loose
ilrock, reaching about half way down, with large sleeves
.'-and a belt. This skirt was generally made of linsey,
sometimes of coarse linen, and a few of dressed deer
skins. A pair of moccasins answered for the feet much
better than shoes, and were made of , dressed deer skin.
In the latter years of the Indian Avar the young men be-
« came^^ilamored of the Indian dress, and adopted it almost
>. antaTely. The reader Avill, naturally, desire a sketch of the dress
adopted by the women ; and the younger minds will more
especially desire an idea of the weddings of those days.
A description of the ceremony adopted will, doubtless,
prove very interesting, in which will be described also
*he women's dress :
For a long time after the first settlement of this loca!lity,
"the inhabitants in general married very young. There
was no distinction of rank and very little of fortune.
On these accounts the first impressions of love resulted
in marriage, and a family establishment cost nothing
more than a little labor. The practice of celebrating the
marriage at the house of the bride began at an early
¦period, and it should seem with great propriety. She
was also given the choice to make the selection as to who
should perform the ceremony. In those days a wedding
engaged the attention of a whole neighborhood, and both
old and young engaged in the frolic with eager anticipa-
' tion. This is not to be wondered at, when it is told that
a wedding was almost the only gathering which was not
accompanied with the labor of reaping, log-rolling, build-
. ing a cabin, or planning some scout or campaign.

Houses, Furniture, &c., of tlie Early Settlers. 51
On the morning of the wedding day, the groom and
his attendants assembled at the house of his father, for
the purpose of reaching the mansion of his bride by noon,
which was the usual time for celebrating the nuptials,
and Avhich for certain must take place before dinner. Let
the reader imagine an assemblage of people, without a
store, tailor or mantuamaker, within an hundred miles,
and an assemblage of horses, without a blacksmith or
saddler within an equal distance. The gentlemen dress
ed in shoepacks, moccasins, leather breeches, leggins,
and linsey hunting shirts, all homemade. The ladies
dressed in linsey petticoats and linsey or linen bed-gowns,
coarse shoes, stockings, handkerchiefs, and buckskin
gloves, if any ; if there were any buckles, rings, buttons
or ruffles, they were relics of old times, family pieces
from parents or grand-parents. The horses were capari
soned Avith old saddles, bridles or halters, and pack-
saddles, with a bag or blanket thrown over them— a rope
or string as often constituted the girth as a piece of leather.
The march, in double file, was often interrupted by the
narrowness and obstructions of the horse paths, as they
were called, for there were no roads. These difficulties
Avere often increased, sometimes by the good, and some
times by the ill will of neighbors ; by felling trees and
tying grape vines across the way. Sometimes an ambus
cade was formed by the wayside, and an unexpected dis
charge of several guns took place, so as to cover the
wedding company with smoke. Let the reader imagine
the scene that followed this discharge— the sudden spring
of the horses, the shrieks of the girls, and the chivalric
bustle of their partners to save them from falling. Some
times, in spite of all that could be done to prevent it,
some Avere thrown to the ground ; if a wrist, elbow, or
ankle happened to be sprained, it was tied with a hand-
herchief, and little more was thought or said about it.
Another ceremony commonly took place before the
party reached their destination When the party w^ere

52 Houses, Furniture, &c., of the Early Settlers.
within about a mile of the bride's house, two young men
would single out to run for the bottle ; the worse the
path, the more logs, bush and deep hollows, the better,
as these obstacles afforded an opportunity for the greater
display of intrepidity and horsemanship. The English
fox chase, in point of danger to the riders and their
horses, was nothing to this race for the bottle. The start
was announced by an Indian yell, when logs, bush, mud-
holes, hill and glen, were speedily passed by the rival
ponies. The bottle was always filled for the occasion^
and there was no need of judges. The first that reached
the door was handed the prize, and returned in triumph
announcing his victory over his rival by a shrill whoop.
The bottle was given the groom and his attendants at the
head of the troop, and then to each pair in succession, to
the rear of the line. After giving each a dram, he'placed
the bottle in his bosom and took his station in the com
pany. The ceremony preceded the dinner, which was
a substantial backwoods feast of beef, pork, fowls and
sometimes venison and bear meat, with plenty of cab
bage, potatoes and other vegetables.
After dinner dancing commenced with four handed
reels or square sets and jigs, and generally lasted until
the next morning. About 9 or 10 o'clock a deputation
of the young ladies stole off the bride and put her to bed.
This would be unnoticed by the hilarious crowd, and as
soon as discovered a deputation of young men in like
manner would steal off the groom and place him snugly
by the side of his bride. Thejdance still continued, and
when seats happened to be scarce, which was often the
case, every young man, when not engaged in the dance,
was obliged to offer his lap as a seat for one of the girls,
Avhich was sure to be accepted. During the hilarity the
newly married couple were_not forgotten. Late in the
night one would remind the company that the new cou
ple stood in need of refreshments. The bottle was then
called "Black Betty," which Avas sent up the ladder.

Houses, Furniture, &c., of the Early Settlers. 53
generally accompanied by a quantity of beef, bread, pork
and cabbage sufficient to afford a good meal for half a
dozen hungry men. During the festivity "Black Betty"
was called out, and in taking a dram they would say,
"Here' s health to the groom, not forgetting myself, and
here's to the bride, thumping luck and big children."
Being in perpetual hostility with the Indians, big chil
dren were considered of much importance, and this ex
pression was thought to be of a very proper and friendly
wish. It often happened that some neighbors or rela
tions, not being asked to the wedding, took offense, and
as a mode of revenge they adopted the plan of cutting off
the manes, f oretops and tails of the horses of the Avedding
company. The feasting and dancing often lasted several
days, and on their return the race for "Black Betty"
was the same as before. After these ceremonies several
days rest were required before they could return to their
ordinary labors.
Some of my readers may doubt the veracity of this
statement, but I Avould state, that in presenting this
book to the public, I have tried to give the facts as cor
rectly as possible. This extract has been sketched from
an old history published in 1833, and is vouched for by
several very old citizens You may ask Avhy this un
pleasant portrait of our forefathers has been presented ?
In turn I would ask why are you pleased with the his
tories of the blood and carnage of battles, and delighted
with the fictions of poetry and the novel romance ? It
is a true state of society and manners which are fast van
ishing from the memory of man, depicted Avith a view
to give the young people of to-day a knowledge of the
advantage of civilization.

CHAPTER V.
NORTHERN NECK OF VIRGINIA.

mn^^

as^JHARLES II, King of England, granted to the ances-
^^ tors of the late Lord Fairfax all the lands lying be
tween the head-Avaters of the Rappahannock and Potomac
to Chesapeake bay. This immense grant included the
territory now comprising the counties of Lancaster, Nor
thumberland, Richmond, Westmoreland, Stafford, King
George, Prince William, Fairfax, Loudon, Fauquier,
Culpeper, Madison, Page, Shenandoah, Hardy, Hamp
shire, Morgan, Berkeley, Jefferson and Frederick. It is
said that the first grant to the ancestors of Fairfax was
only intended to include the territory in the Northern
Neck, east of the Blue Ridge ; but after Faixfax dis
covered that the Potomac river headed in the Alleghaney
mountains, he returned to England, and instituted his
petition in the Court of King's Bench for extending his
grant into the Alleghaney mountains, so as to include
the territory composing the present counties of Page,
Shenandoah, Hardy, Hampshire, Morgan, Berkeley, Jef
ferson and Frederick. A compromise took place between
Fairfax and the Crown, but previous to the institution
of Fairfax' s suit, several individuals had obtained grants
for large bodies-of land west of the Blue Ridge, from the
colonial government of Virginia. In the compromise it
was expressly stipulated that the holders of lands, under
what Avere then called the King's grants, Avere to be
quieted in their right of possession.
Joist Hite and his partners had obtained grants for a
large body. Fairfax, under the pretext that Hite and
others had not complied with the terms of their grants,
took it upon himself to grant away large quantities of

Northern JSeck of Virginia. 55
these lands to other individuals. This high handed pro
ceeding on the part of his Lordship, produced a laAv suit,
which Hite and his partners instituted in the year 1736,
and in the year 1786 it was decided. The i)laintiffs re
ceived a large amount of money for the rents and profits,.
and a considerable quantity of land.
In the year 1736 Fairfax entered a caveat against Hite
and his partners, alleging that the lands claimed by them
were within the bounds of the Northern Neck, and con
sequently his property. This was the beginning of the
controversy, and led to the suit instituted by the latter.
However, all the parties died before the suit was decided.-
The immense Fairfax estate has passed out of the hands
of Fairfax's heirs. The lands, (as observed in a preced
ing chapter,) were granted by Fairfax in fee simple to
his tenants, subject to an annual rent of two shillings
sterling per hundred acres, which in the aggregate
amounted to a very large sum. To this Fairfax added
and required the payment of ten shillings sterling on
each fifty acres (Avhat he termed composition money,)
and which Avas paid on issuing the grant. In the year
1742 he opened his office in the county of Fairfax for
granting out land. xV few years after he removed to the
county of Frederick, and settled at what he called
"Greenway-Court," about 12 or 14 miles south-east of
the present Winchester, where he kept his land office
during his life. He died in the autumn of 1781, very
soon after the surrender of 'Cornwallis. It is stated that
when he heard of the capture of Cornwallis, he called his
servant to assist him to bed, saying, "It is time for me
to die." He never left his bed again until consigned to
the tomb. He had, prior to his death, made a donation
to the Episcopal society of a lot of land, upon Avhich a
large stone building was erected as a place of public
worship. To the church Avas attached a large burial
ground, in Avhich his remains were interred.
In the year 1785 the legislature of Virginia x^assed an>

56 Northern Neck of Virginia.
act in which, among other provisions, (in relation to the
Northern Neck,) is the following :
''And he it further enacted, That the landholders
within the said district of the Northern Neck shall be
forever hereafter exonerated and discharged from com
position and quitrents, any law, custom or usage to the
contrary notwithstanding." This action of the State
freed the people from a vexatious and troublesome tax
ation. Fairfax' s representatives soon sold out their in
terest in his private estate in this country, and it is be
lieved there is no part of this vast landed estate remain
ing in the hands of any branch of the Fairfax family.
Chief Justice Marshall, the late Raleigh Colston, Esq.,
and the late Gen. Henry Lee, purchased the right of
Fairfax's legatees — who were then in England — to Avhat
is called the Manor of Leeds, which contained about 150, - '
000 acres ; South Branch Manor, 55,000 acres ; Patter
son's Creek Manor, 9,000 acres, and various other tracts
of land of immense value, the most of which had been
leased out for long terms of lives.
This profligate manner of granting away land's in im
mense bodies was unquestionably founded in the most
unwise and unjust policy. Such are the blessings of
kingly governments. It tended more to tie and bind
down the speedy settlement and improvement of the
country, instead of advancing its interests for a more
rapid development. But, alas, the disgusting, high-
sounding title of "My Lord" is no longer applied to poor,
frail humanity.
It appears that Lord Fairfax, among others, Avas an
attentive officer in the time of the Indian wars. He had
more at stake and the command of greater funds than
any other individual of his day, therefore it behooA^ed
him to be active. The Indian hostilities retarded the
settlement of his large domain, and of course lessened his
revenue. It is said that he was remarkable for his eccen
tricities and singularity of disposition and character, and

Northern Neck of Virginia. 57
that he had an insatiable passion for hoarding up English
gold. He never married, and of course left no child to
inherit his vast estate. All his property, or the greater
portion of it, Avas devised to his nephew in England, the
Rev. Denny Martin, on condition that he would apiDly
to the Parliament of Britain for an act to authorize him
to take the name of Lord Fairfax. This Avas done, and
Denny Lord Fairfax, like his uncle, never marrying, he
devised the estate to Gen. Philip Martin, avIio, never
marrying and dying without issue, devised the estate to
two old maiden sisters, who sold it to Messrs. Marshall,
Colston and Lee.
It is proper, before the subject of Lord Fairfax's grant
is dismissed, to inform the reader that a few years after
the war of the revolution an attempt was made to confis
cate all that part of his landed estate devised to his
nephew, Denny Martin, (after Denny Lord Fairfax.)
But Messrs. Marshall, Colston and Lee having purchased
the estate, a compromise took place between them and
the State Government. The sale of the estate of Lord
Fairfax by his legatees in England, and the devise and
sale of the real estate of the late Col. T. B. Martin, is the
last of the history of the Fairfax interest in the Northern
Neck, a territory comprising about one-fourth of the
whole of the present limits of Virginia.
BERKELEY COUNTY LAID OFF.
The two counties of Frederick and Augusta Avere laid off
at the session of the Colonial Legislature in the year
1738, and included all the vast region of country west of
the Blue Ridge. Previous to that time the County of
Orange included all the territory west of the mountains.
Orange was taken from Spotsylvania in the year 1734,
the latter having previously crossed the Blue Ridge and
took in a considerable part of what is now the County of
Page. Previous to laying off the County of Orange the
territory west of the Blue Ridge, except the small part

58 Northern Neck of Virginia.
which lay in Spotsylvania, does not appear to have
been included in any county.
Thus it appears that a little more than one hundred
years ago Spotsylvania was a frontier county, and that
the vast region west of the Blue Ridge, with its millions
of people, has been settled and improved from an entire
Avilderness. The country for more than a thousand miles
to the west has been, within this short period, rescued
from a state of natural barbarism, and is now the seat of
the fine arts and sciences, of countless millions of wealth
and the abode of freedom, both religious and politi
cal. Judging from the past, what an immense prospect
opens itself to our view for the future. Within the last
half century this great portion of country has poured
out thousands of emigrants, Avho have contributed to-
Avards peopling the North, East, South and West, and
immigrations still continue.
It has been already stated that Frederick County was
laid off in the year 1738. Berkeley was taken from
Frederick in the year 1772. The first Sheriff was Adam
Stephen, Avho was constituted and appointed by a com
mission from the Governor for Berkeley County on the
18th day of April, 1772. A number of justices were ap
pointed for the county, and their commi'ssion for their
appointment is herewith given, as taken from the origi
nal copy now on file in the Clerk's Office, which doubtless
will prove of interest to the reader :
"¦Berkeley County, s. s.
"Be it remembered that at the house of Edward Bee-
son, the Nineteenth Day of May, Anno Domini 1772, a
Commission of the Peace and a Commission of Oyer and
Terminer from his excellency Lord Dunmore dated the
17th Day of AjDril in the year aforesaid directed to Ralph
Wormley, Jacob jHite, Van Swearengen, Thomas Ruther
ford, Adam Stephen, John Heavill, Thomas Swearengen,
Samuel Washington, James Hourse, William Little,
Robert Stephen, John Briscoe, Hugh Lyle, James

Northern Neck of Virginia. 59
Strode, William Morgan, Robert Stogdon, James Seaton,
Robert Carter Willis, and Thomas Robinson, Gentle
men and also Dedimus' s for administering Oaths, directed
to the same Persons or any two of them ; where pro
duced and read, whereupon the said Van Swearengen,
having first taken the usual oaths to his Majesty's Per
son & Government repeated and subscribed the Test
taken, the Oaths of a Justice of the Peace, of a Justice
of the County Court in Chancery & of a Justice of Oyer
and Terminer, which were administered to him by the
said James House & William Little, he the said Van
Swearengen, then administered the same oaths unto
Thomas Swearengen, Samuel Washington, James Hourse,
William Morgan, William Little, James Strode, Robert
Stephen, Robert Stogdon, Robert Carter Willis, & James
Seaton, who severally took the same & Repeated & Sub
scribed the Test : Court Proclaimed, at a court held for
Berkeley County the 19th Day of May, 1772. Present :
Van Swearengen, James Strode,
Thos. Swearengen, Robert Stephen,
Samuel Washington, Robert Stogdon,
James Hourse, Robert C. Willis,
William Morgan, and,
William Little, James Seaton,
Gent. Justices.
William Drew Avas the first clerk of the Court, and
was appointed by a commission from Thomas Nelson,
Esq. James Theith, John Magill, George Brent, George
Johnston, Philip Pendleton and Alexander White were
the first attorneys licensed to practice law in the court
of the colony. Alexander White was' appointed the
first deputy attorney for this county under commission
of the Attorney General of the colony. In those days
when courts of law were resorted to as a means of jus
tice, it vras to be had at but little trouble, and the offen
der was dealt with in the most strict and hurried man
ner. In looking over the first court docket of this

^0 Northern Neck of Virginia.
county the author could surprise the people of the pres
ent generation Avere he to make mention of the most cruel
manner in which punishments Avere infiicted. Slavery
Avas then carried out in its true sense, regardless of na
ture or humanity. Again, it is much of a curiosity to
see the manner in which the proceedings Avere conducted.

CHAPTER VI.
MARTINSBURG ESTABLISHED.
pARTINSBURG was established in the month of
% October, 1778, and Avas named after Col. T. B.
Martin, of Avhom mention has been made in the previous
chapter as the last holder of the estate of this portion of
country prior to its being laid off. The following is an
extract from the law at the time our present city was es
tablished :
"Whereas it hath been represented to this present
General Assembly that Xdam Stephen, Esq., hath lately
laid off one hundred and thirty acres of land in the
county of Berkeley, where the Court House now stands,
in lots and streets for a town, etc.; Be it enacted, etc.,
that the said one hundred and thirty acres of land laid
out into lots and streets, agreeable to a plan and survey
thereof made containing the number of two hundred and
sixty-nine lots, as by the said plan and survey, relation
thereunto being had, may more fully appear, be and the
same is hereby vested in James McAlister, Joseph Mitch
ell, Anthony Noble, James Strode, Robert Carter Willis,
William Patterson and Philip Pendleton, gentlemen,
trustees, and shall be established a town by the name of
Martinsburg." Tradition relates an animated contest that took place
between Sheriff Adam Stephen and Jacob Hite, Esq., in
relation to fixing the seat of justice for this county and
by which the latter lost his life. It may probably prove
interesting to the reader :
Hite contended for the location thereof on his own
land at what is now called LeetoAvn, in the county of
Jefferson. Stephen advocated Martinsburg, and pre-

62 Martinsburg Established.
vailed upon it until Hite became so disgusted and dis
satisfied that he sold out his fine estate and removed to
the frontier of South Carolina. His removal proved
fatal, for he had not long settled in that State before the
Indians murdered him and several of his family in the
most shocking and barbarous manner. It is said thaf
the evening before this bloody massacre took place, an
Indian squaw who Avas much attached to Mrs. Hite,
called on her and Avarned her of the intended plot, and
advised her to remove with her little children to a place
of safety. Mrs. Hite immediately communicated the in
telligence to her htisband. He would not believe the
information, observing "the Indians were too much
attached to him to do him any injury." The next morn
ing, however, Avhen it was fatally too late to escape, a
party of Indians, armed and painted in their usual war
dress, called on Hite and told him they were determined
to kill him. It was in vain that he pleaded his friend
ship for them and the many services he had rendered
their nation. Their full purpose was fixed and nothing
could appease them but his blood and that of his inno
cent, unoffending and helpless wife and children. They
commenced their barbarous work by the most cruel tor
tures, cutting him to pieces, a joint at a time, and while
he was thus in the most violent agonies they barbarously
murdered his wife and several of her little offspring.
After they had dispatched Mr. Hite, his wife and sev
eral of the children, they took two of his daughters, not
quite grown, and all of his slaves as prisoners. They
also carried off what plunder they choose, and their booty
was considerable. Mr. Hite kept a large store and dealt
largely Avith the Creek and Cherokee tribes. It was
afterward stated that a man by the name of Parish, who
was an intimate friend of and went to Carolina with
Hite, grew jealous of the latter's popularity with the In
dians, and instigated the savages to commit the murder.
On the 20th day of August, 1779, on motioii of Adam

Martinsburg Established. 63
Stephen, Sheriff, the plat for Martinsburg Avas ordered
to be recorded, with terms to purchasers, as folloAvs :
"The purchasers of any of the lots in the above town is
to build on the purchased lot a good dwelling house, to
be at least twenty feet long and sixteen feet wide, with
stone or brick chimney to same, in two years from the
time of iDurchase, and, on failure, the lot to return to the
proprietor." The first court was held in the dwelling house of Ed
ward Beeson, situated on the land now owned by Mr. A.
J. Thomas, at the north end of the city. The building
was a rude log house and consisted of one story and a
half. The first Court House erected was built of stone,
(and a very odd looking one at that,) and located where
the present fine structure now stands. The first jail was
a log building, erected in the middle of the Square, with
the Market House attached to the rear end. The first
church built Avest of the Blue Ridge Mountain is the one
standing at the present day on Tuscarora, about tAvo
miles from the city. The Falling Waters church was
the next. A number of the buildings, solidly constructed
of stone and of early date, are yet standing at an age of
over one hundred and fifty years, and presenting an air
of defiance to the ravages of time. From their present
state there is but little doubt that they will perhaps
stand the trials and tribulations of the world for centu
ries to come.
Among the early settlers a number of old commissions
were issued by prominent Governors and Lieutenant
Governors of Virginia, appointing sheriffs, justices and
overseers of the poor, dated from the expulsion of
George, Earl of Dunmore, his Majesty's Lieutenant Gov
ernor of the colony of Virginia, and Vice-Admiral of the
same, in 1772 to the Governorship of Henry A. Wise in
1859. There are two papers signed by Patrick Henry,
the young orator who rebelled against the British Ministry
and stirred within the breast of the American people an

64 Martinsburg Established.
independence that led to deeds of valor. These Avere dated
"Council Chamber, AVilliamsburg, Dec. 9th, 1776." The
next was signed by Thos. Jefferson, who afterAvard be
came President, and as an example for model simplicity
but few after Presidents have ever attained to. This
paper bears an impression of the first wax seal of the
Virginia Commonwealth. Benjamin Harrison was the
signer of two commissions. Beverly Randolph (1788,)
James Wood (1793,) and Robert Brooks (1799,) also sent
commissions. Among the number are the Avell -known
signatures of Jno. Tyler, who succeeded Harrison as
President, and James Monroe, also afterAvard President.
Among the signatures of the Governors discernible were
the names of Geo. W. Smith, James Barbour, James P.
Preston, Lieutenant Governor Peter V. Daniels, Lieu
tenant Governor Tate, John Randolph, Henry A. Wise,
(Virginia's AViar Governor,) Tillitson Tozewell and James
McDoAvell. Among the men were statesmen and patriots
whose noble traits are revered by many of the Virginia
people. Many pages of American history have been
scattered broadcast containing their acts of heroism and
manliness. Among the early residents were three noted generals
of the revolutionary war— Horatio Gates, Alexander
Stephen and Charles Lee. As an evidence of the well-
known eccentricity of the former, is the following ex
tract from his will, copied from the original, and on file
in the office of the County Clerk :
"I desire, most earnestly, that I may not be buried in
any church or church yard, or within a mile of any
Presbyterian or Anabaptist meeting-house ; for, since I
have resided in this county, I have kept so much bad
company when living that I do not chuse to continue it
when dead. I recommend my soul to the* creator of all
worlds and all creatures, who must, from his visible at
tributes, be indifferent to their modes of worship or creeds
whether Christians, Mohammedans or Joavs ; whether

Martinsburg Established. 65
more or less absurd ; as a Aveak mortal can no more be
answerable for his persuasions, notions or even scepti
cism in religion, than for the color of his skin."
The will Avas presented to the Berkeley County Court
for record April 15th, 1783, in his own hand-Avriting.
Another extract is taken from the County Court records
under date of NoA^ember 20th, 1776 :
"Proclamation being made for the trial of a negro man
belonging to General Horatio Gates, committed to the
goal of this county, and for breaking open the cellar of
the said General Gates and feloniously taking from
thence a chest of money and clothes ; who being brought
to the bar and it being demanded of him Avhether he was
guilty of the offense whereAvith he stands charged, or
not guilty, he says he is guilty. It is, therefore, the
judgment of the Court that he be remanded back to the
goal from Avhence he came, and there to continue till
the third Friday in December next ; then from thence to
be taken and hanged by the neck till he is dead. It is
the opinion of the said Court that the said slave is worth
seventy pounds." MAJOR GENERAL ALEXANDER STEPHEN.
Each one of these noted Generals was cashiered.
Alexander Stephen for becoming drunk and neglecting
to bring his troops forward to the support of the balance
of the army at the battle of Monmouth. His remains
lie buried upon the premises of the late Hon. C. J. Faulk
ner, on the south edge of town. A monument was com
menced to his memory, but Avas advanced no further
than the placing of three broad stones. It was supposed
that the other portion was used to a more appropriate
purpose. MAJOR GENERAL CHARLES LEE.
Gen. Lee was at one time a rival of Gen. Geo. Wash
ington, and an aspirant for the position of Commander-
in-Chief of the army, and while the latter modestly urged
upon Congress to relieve him from the resijonsibility and

66 Martinsburg Established.
appoint some one Avhom he imagined could more credi
tably fill the position, the former, by intrigue and with
importunity, sought and failed to obtain it. This led
Gen. Lee to entertain feelings of envy and hatred toward
Gen. Washington, much to the latter's regret, who did
his utmost to dispel them. Gen. Lee at this time lived
about ten miles from Martinsburg, in a long, low house,
the back room of which Avas his bed-room, the next the
dining-room, then ,the kitchen, in which his slaves and
dogs remained, and in front was a sort of sitting or re
ception room. Gen. Washington at one time, with the
intention of trying to regain the good will of Gen. Lee,
wrote to him informing him that, trusting that it would
be agreeable, he Avould do himself the honor of dining
with him on the following day. Upon his arrival, hoAv-
ever, he found the house closed, and fastened to the front
door was this message : "No bread or bacon cooked to
day." There wasn't much of the boasted hospitality of
the dominion exhibited by this, but it is excusable from
the fact that General Lee came from England and had
not been a resident of the Commonwealth long enough
to become addicted to the habits of the ijeople.
The three heroes — Gates, Stephen and Lee — Avere in
the habit of frequently meeting at the residence of the
latter, iu the summer and fall of 1782, and crack jokes,
drink wine and compare notes of their army experience.
Upon one occasion, after a lengthy sitting and free in
dulgence in the spirits, which were ardent. General Lee
obtained the floor and remarked : ' 'The County of Berke
ley is indeed to be congratulated. She can claim as citi
zens three noted Major Generals of the revolutionary
Avar. You, Stephen, distinguished yourself by getting
drunk when you should have remained sober, and AA^as
cashiered for advancing when you should have been re
treating, while your humble servant covered himself with
glory and laurels and was cashiered for retreating when
he should have been advancing."

CHAPTER VII.
REPORT OF HON. C. J. FAULKNER ON ADJUST
MENT OF THE BOUNDARY LINE BETWEEN
VIRGINIA AND MARYLAND.
?HE State of Maryland, in 1832, set up a claim to a
k considerable tract of territory on the north-Avest
border of Virginia, including a part of the Northern
Neck. It was then the late Hon. Charles James Faulk
ner distinguished himself, and won the respect and es
teem of his people. Maryland pushed the claim with
much earnestness, and the Executive of the State in
appointing a commission to collect and embody the nec
essary testimony, on behalf of Virginia, selected Mr.
Faulkner. This gentleman, in taking up this interesting
question, worked with an untiring zeal and energy, and
on the 6th day of November, 1832, made a most able re
port on " the settlement and adjustment of the western
boundary of Maryland." The author deems it of suffi
cient interest to every Berkeley citizen, to insert in this
work the report in full. It is as follows, from the origi
nal copy :
''Report of Charles James Faulkner relative to the
Boundary line between Virginia and Maryland :
Martinsburg, Nov. 6, 1832.
Sir : — In execution of a commission addressed to me
by your Excellency, and made out in pursuance of a
joint resolution of the General Assembly of this State,
of the 20th of March last, I have directed my attention
to the collection of such testimony as the lapse of time
and the nature of the inquiry have enabled me to procure
touching "the settlement and adjustment of theAvestern
boundary of Maryland." The division line which now

68 Boundary Line.
separates the two States on the west, and Avhich has
heretofore been considered as fixed by positive adjudica
tion and long acquaintance, commences at a point where
the Fairfax stone is planted, at the head spring of the
Potomac River, and runs thence due north to the Penn
sylvania line. This is the boundary by which Virginia
has held for near a century ; it is the line by which she
held in 1786, when the compact made by the Virginia and
Maryland Commissioners was solemnly ratified by the
legislative authorities of the two States.
An effort is now made by the General Assembly of
Maryland, to enlarge her territory by the establishment
of a different division line. We have not been informed
which fork of the South-Branch she will elect as the neAV
boundary, but the proposed line is to run from one of the
forks of the South Branch thence due north to the Penn
sylvania terminus. It is needless to say that the substi
tution of the latter line, no matter at which fork it may
commence, would cause an important diminution in the
already diminished territorial area of this State. It
would deprive us of large portions of the counties of
Hampshire, Hardy, Pendleton, Randolph and Preston,
amounting in all to almost half a million of acres — a sec
tion of the CommouAvealth which, from the quality of its
soil, and the character of its population, might well ex
cite the cupidity of a government resting her claims upon
a less substantial basis than a stale and groundless pre
tension of more than a century's antiquity. Although
my instructions have directed my attention more partic
ularly to the collection and preservation of the evidence
of such living witnesses "as might be able to testify to
any facts or circumstances in relation to the settlement
and adjustment of the western boundary," I have con
sumed but a very inconsiderable portion of my time in
any labor or inquiry of that sort, for who indeed, now
living, could testify to any "facts or circumstances"
which occurred nearly a century ago ? And if such indi-

Boundary Line. 69
viduals were now living, why waste time in taking depo
sitions as to those "facts,"' in proof of Avhich the most
ample and authentic testimony Avas taken in 1736, as the
basis of a royal adjudication ? I have consequently
deemed it of more importance to procure the original
documents Avhere possible; if not, authentic copies of
such papers as Avould serve to exhibit a connected view
of the origin, progress and termination of that contro
versy with the Crown, which resulted, after the most
accurate and laborious surveys, in the ascertainment of
those very " facts and circumstances" which are now
sought to be made again the subjects of discussion and
inquiry. In this pursuit I have succeeded far beyond
what I had any ground for anticipation ; and from the
almost forgotten rubbish of past years, have been ena
bled to draw forth documents and papers whose interest
may survive the occasion which redeemed them from
destruction. To enable your Excellency to form a just conception of
the Aveight and importance of the evidence heroAvith ac
companying this report, I beg leave to submit with it a
succinct statement of the question in issue between the
governments of Virginia and Maryland, with some ob
servations showing the relevancy of the evidence to the
question thus presented.
The territory of Maryland granted by Charles I, to
Lord Baltimore, in June, 1632, was described in the grant
as "that region bounded by a line drawn from Watkins's
point on Chesapeake Bay to the ocean on the east; thence
to that part of the estuary of Delaware on the north
which lieth under the 40th degree, where New England
is terminated ; thence in a right line by the degree afore
said, to the meridian of the foundation of the Potomac ;
thence following its course by its farther bank to its con
fluence." {MarshalV s Life of Washington, ml. 1, ch.
II, pp. 78 — 81, l.s^ edition.)
It is plain that the western boundary of this grant was

&

70 Boundary Line.
the meridian of the fountain of the Potomac, from the
point where it cut the 40th degree of north latitude to
the fountain of the river ; and that the extent of the
grant depended upon the question, what stream was the
Potomac? So that the question now in controversy
groAvs 'immediately out of the grant. The territory
granted to Lord Baltimore was undoubtedly within the
chartered limits of Virginia : {See Lit Charter of April,
1606, sec. 4, and t?ie 2d Charter of May, 1609, sec. 6 /
1st Hen. Stat, at Large, pp. 58 — 88.) And Marshall says
that the grant "was the first example of the dismember
ment of a colony, and the creation of a new one within
its limits, by the mere act of the Crown ;" and that the
planters of Virginia presented a petition against it,
" which was heard before the privy council (of England)
in July, 1633, when it was declared that Lord Baltimore
should retain his patent, and the petitioners their remedy
at laAV. To this remedy they never thought proper to
resort." Whether there be any record of this proceeding ex
tant, I have never been able to learn. The civil war in
England broke out about ten years after, and perhaps
the journals of the proceedings of the privy council were
destroyed. Subsequently to this, we are informed by
Graham, the planters, " fortified by the opinion of emi
nent lawyers whom they consulted, and Avho scrupled
not to assure them that the ancient patents of Virginia
still remained in force, and that the grant of Maryland,
as derogatory to them, toas utterly void, they presented
an application to the Parliament, complaining of the un
just invasion which their privileges had undergone."
{Graham's History, vol. 2, p. 12.) But as the Parlia
ments of those days were but the obsequious ministers
of the Crown, that application, it is presumed, likewise
shared the fate of their former petition to the privy
council. The present claim of Maryland, then, must be founded

Boundary Line. 71
on the suiiposition that the stream which we call the
Potomac was not ; and that the stream now called the
South Branch of the Potomac, was in fact the Potomac
intended in the grant to Lord Baltimore. I have never
been informed which fork of the South Branch she claims
as the Potomac (for there is a North and a South fork of
the South Branch) ; neither have I been able to learn
what is the evidence, or the kind of evidence, on which
she relies to ascertain that the stream which is now
called the Soutli Branch of the Potomac, but Avhich at
the date of the grant to Lord Baltimore was not known
at all, and when known, known for many years only as
the Wappacomo, was the Potomac intended by Lord Bal
timore' s grant. For this important geographical fact I
refer to the numerous early maps of the chartered limits
of Virginia and Maryland, some of Avhich are to be seen
in the public libraries of Washington and Richmond.
The question, Avhich stream Avas the Potomac ? is sim
ply a question which of them, if either, bore the name.
The name is matter of general reputation. If there be
anything which depends wholly upon general accepta
tion which ought and must be settled by prescription it
is this question AAjhich of these rivers Avas and is the Po
tomac? The accompanying papers, it is believed, Avill
ascertain this fact to the satisfaction of every impartial
inquirer. In the twenty-first year of Charles II. a grant was
made to Lord Hopton and others of what is called the
Northern Neck of Virginia, which was sold by the other
patentees to Lord Culpeper, and confirmed to him by
letters patent in the fourth year of James II. This grant
carried with it nothing but the right of soil and the inci
dents of ownership, for it was expressly subjected to the
jurisdiction of the government of Virginia. Of this
earlier patent I believe there is no copy in Virginia. The
original charter from James II. to Lord Culpeper ac
companies this report, marked No. 1. They are both

72 Boundary Line.
recited in the colonial statute of 1736, (1 Rev. Code, ch.
89.) The tract of country thereby granted Avas "all that
entire tract, territory and parcel of land lying and being
in America and bounded by and Avithin the heads of the
rivers Tappahannock alias Rappahannock, and Quir-
iough alias Potomac rivers, the course of the said rivers
as they are commonly called and known by the inhab
itants and description of their parts and Chesapeake
Bay." As early as 1729, in consequence of the eagerness with
which lands were sought on the Potomac and its tribu
tary streams, and from the difficulties growing out of
conflicting grants from Lord Fairfax' and the Crown, the
boundaries of the Northern Neck proprietary became a
subject which attracted deep and earnest attention. At
this time the Potomac had been but little ex]plored, and
although the stream itself above its confluence with the
Shenandoah was known as the Cohongoroota, or Upper
Potomac, it had never been made the subject of any very
accurate surveys and examinations, nor had it yet been
settled by any competent authority AA'hich of its several
tributaries was entitled to be regarded as the main or
pricipal branch of the river. It became important, there
fore, to remove all further doubt upon that question.
In June 1729, the Lieutenant Governor of Virginia ad--
dressed a communication to the Lords commissioners of
trade and plantation affairs, in Avhich he solicits their at
tention to the ambiguity of the Lord proprietor's char
ter growing out of the fact that there Avere several streams
which might be claimed as the head springs of Potomac
River, among which he enumerates the Shenandoah,
and expresses his determination "to refuse the suspen
sion of granting of piatents, until the case should be fair
ly stated and determined according to the genuine con
struction of the proprietor's charter." This Avas fol
lowed by a petition to the King in council, agreed to
by tlie house of burgesses of Virginia, in June 1730, in

Boundary Line. 73
which it is set forth, among other matters of complaint,
"that the head springs of the Rappahannock and Poto
mac are not yet knoAvn to any of your Majesty's sub
jects ;" that much inconvenience had resulted to grantees
therefrom, and praying the adoption of such measures
as might lead to its ascertainment to the satisfaction of
all parties interested.
Lord Fairfax, who, by his marriage AAiih the only
daughter of Lord Culpeper, had now succeeded to the
proprietorship of the Northern Neck, feeling it like
wise due to his grantees to have the question relieved
from all further difficulty, preferred his petition to the
King in 1733, praying that his majesty Avould be pleased
to order a commission to issue, for running out, marking
and ascertaining the bounds of his patent, according to
the true intent and meaning of his charter. An order
to this effect was accordingly directed by the King ; and
three commissioners Avere appointed on behalf of the
Crown, and the same number on behalf of Lord Fairfax.
The duty Avhich devolved upon them Avas to ascertain
by actual examination and survey, the true fountains of
the Rappahannock and Potomac Rivers. To enable them
more perfectly to discharge the important trust confided
to them, they Avere authorized to summon persons before
them, to take depositions and affidavits, to search papers
and employ surveyors, chain-carriers, markers, and other
necessary attendants. The commissioners convened in
Fredericksburg, on the 26th of September, 1736, and pro
ceeded to discharge their duties, by taking depositior^s,
appointing surveyors, and making every needful and
requisite preparation for the survey. They commenced
their journey of observation and survey on the 12th day
of October, 1736, and finished it on the 14th of Decem
ber, of the same year ; on which day they discovered
what they marked and reported to be the first fountain
of the Potomac River. Separate reports were made by
the commissioners, which reports, with all the accom-

74 Boundary Line.
panying documents, papers, surveys, plans, &c., AA^ere,
on the 21st of December, 1738, referred to the council for
plantation affairs. That board, after hearing counsel,
made a report on the 6th day of April, in which they
state, "that having examined into the several reports,
returns, plans and other papers transmitted to them by
the commissioners appointed on behalf of the Crown, as
likewise of Lord Fairfax, and having been attended by
counsel on behalf of your Majesty, as likewise of Lord
Fairfax, and having heard all that they had to offer
thereupon, and the question being concerning that boun
dary which ought to be draAvn from the first head or
spring of the river Rappahannock to the first head or
spring of the river Potomac, the committee do agree
humbly to report to your Majesty as their opinion, that
within the Avords and meaning of the letters patent,
granted by King James II, bearing date the 27th day of
September, in the fourth year of his reign, the said boun
dary ought to begin at the first spring of the Soutli
Branch of the river Rappahannock, and that the said
boundary be from thence drawn in a straight line north
west to tlie place in the Alleghany Mountains where that
part of the Potomac River, which is now called Cohon
goroota, first rises.'''' The Cohongoroota is known to be
the stream which the Maryland writers term the North
Branch of the Potomac, but Avhich is recognized in
Virginia, and described on all the maps and surveys
Avhich I have ever yet seen, as the Potomac River, from
its first fountain, where the Fairfax stone is located, to
its confluence Avith the Shenandoah ; there being, prop
erly speaking, no such stream as the North Branch of
the Potomac. This report of the council for plantation
affairs was submitted to the King in council on the 11th
of April, 1745, and fully confirmed by him, and further
order made, directing the appointment of commissioners
to run and Avork the dividing line agreeably to his de
cision thus made. Commissioners were accordingly ap-

Boundary Line. 75
pointed, Avho, having provided themselves Avith surveyors,
chain- carriers, markers, &c., commenced their journey
on the 18th of September, 1746. On the 17th of October,
they planted the Fairfax stone at the spot which had
been described and marked by the preceding commis
sioners as the true head spring of the Potomac River,
and which has continued to be regarded, from that pe
riod to the present time, as the southern point of the
western boundary betAveen Maryland and Virginia. A
joint report of these proceedings was made by the com
missioners to the King, accompanied Avith their field
notes ; which report Avas received and ordered to be filed
away among the records of his Majesty's privy council.
Thus terminated, after a lapse of sixteen years, a pro
ceeding which had for its object, among other matters,
the ascertainment of the first fountain of the Potomac
River, and which resulted in the establishment of that
"fact" by a tribunal of competent jurisdiction. This
decision has now been acquiesced in for near a century ;
and all the topographical description and sketches of the
country have been made to conform to it. I say acqui
esced in, for it is impossible to regard the varying, fluc
tuating legislation of Maryland upon the subject, at one
session of her General Assembly recognizing the line as
noAV established, {see compact of 1785, session Acts of
1803, 1818 and others,) at another authorizing the ap
pointment hi commissioners to adjust the boundary, as a
grave resistance of its conclusions, or such a continual
claim, as under the usage of international law would bar
an application of the principles of usucaption 2iRdi pres
cription. {See Vattel, p. 251. Grotius, lib. 2, cap. 4.
Wolf us. Jus. Nat. par. 3.)
Jurisdiction in all cases relating to boundaries betAveen
provinces, the dominion and proprietary government, is
by the common laAv of England exclusively vested in the
King and council (1 Ves. sen p. 447.) And notwith
standing it may be a question of boundary between the

76 Boundary Line.
Crown and a Lord proprietor of a province, (such as that
between Lord Fairfax and the Crown,) the King is the
only judge, and is jjresumed to act with entire im
partiality and justice in reference to all persons concern
ed, asAvell as those who are parties to the proceedingbefore
him, as others not parties Avho may yet be- interested in .
the adjustment. {Vesey, ib.) Such is the theory and
practice of the English Constitution ; and although it
may not accord precisely Avith our improved conceptions
of juridicial practice, it is nevertheless the law which
must now govern and control the legal aspect of the pres
ent territorial dispute between Virginia and Maryland.
It does not appear by the accompanying papers, that
Charles Lord Baltimore, the then proprietor of Maryland,
deputed an agent to attend upon his part in the exami
nation and survey of the Potomac River. It is possible
he conceived his interests sufficiently protected in the
aspect which the controversy had then assumed between
Lord Fairfax and the Crown. Certain it is, that it no
where appears that he ever considered himself aggrieved
by the result of that adjustment. That his government
was fully apprised of what was in progress, can scarcely
admit of a rational doubt. For it is impossible to con
ceive that a controversy so deeply affecting not only the
interests of Lord Baltimore, but all who Avere concerned
in the ])urch-dse of land in that section of the country,
and conducted Avith so much solemnity and notoriety,
could have extended through a period of sixteen years,
without attracting the attention of the government of
Maryland — a government ever jealous because ever doubt
ful of the original tenure by which her charter was held.
But had Lord Baltimore even considered himself ag
grieved by the result of that settlement, it is difficult
now to conceive upon what ground he aa^ouIcI have ex
cepted to its justice or questioned its validity. Could
he have said that the information upon which the de
cision Avas founded Avas imperfect ? Or that the proceed-

Boundary Line. 77
ings of the commissioners Avere characterized by haste,
favoritism or fraud ? This the proceeding of that board
still preserved, would contradict. For never was there
an examination conducted with more deliberation, pros
ecuted with more labor, or scrutinized with a more jeal
ous and anxious vigilance. Could he have shown that
some other stream ought to have been fixed upon as the
true head spring of the Potomac ? This, it is believed,
is impossible, for although it maybe true that the south
branch is a longer stream, it nevertheless wants those
more important characteristics which Avere then consid
ered by the commissioners and have been subsequently
regarded by esteemed geographers as essential in distin
guishing a tributary from the main branch of a river.
{See FlinC s Geography, vol. 2, p. 88.) Lastly, would he
have questioned the authority of the CroAvn to settle the
boundaries of Lord Fairfax' s charter without having pre
viously made him a party to the proceeding ? I have
before shown the futility of such an idea. Besides, this
would have been at once to question the authority under
which he held his own grant, for Baltimore held by vir
tue of an arbitrary act of the second Charles. His grant
was manifestly made in violation of the chartered rights
of Virginia, and carried into effect not only without the
acquiescence, but against the solemn and repeated re
monstrances of her government. Was Virginia consulted
in the "dismemberment" of her territory? Was she
made a party to that proceeding by which, "for the first
time in colonial history, one uoav province Avas created
within the chartered limits of another by the mere act of
the Crown?" But the fact is that Charles Lord Balti
more, who lived for six years after the adjustment of this
question, never did contest the jn-opriety of "the boun
dary as settled by the commissioners, but from all that
remains of his views and x)roceedings, fully acquiesced
in its accuracy and justice. {See treaty withtlie Six Na
tions of Indians at Lancaster in June, 1744.)

78 Boundary Line.
The first evidence of dissatisfaction with the boundary
as established, which the researches of the Maryland
Avriters have enabled them to exhibit, are certain instruc
tions from Frederick Lord of Baltimore, (successor of
Charles) to Governor Sharp, which were presented by the
latter to his council, in August 1753. I have not been
able to procure a copy of those instructions, but a recent
historian of Maryland, and an ingenious advocate of her
present claim, referring to them, says. "His instruc
tions were predicated upon the supposition that the sur
vey might possibly have been made with the knowledge
and concurrence of Tiis predecessor, and hence he denies
fhe power of the latter to enter into any arrangement as
to the boundaries, which could extend beyond his life
estate, or conclude those in remainder." {M^Mahon's
History of Maryland, p. 53.)
What were the precise limitation of those conveyances
made by the proprietors of Maryland, and under which
Frederick Lord Baltimore denies the poAver of his prede
cessor to enter into any arrangement as to the boundaries,
which could extend beyond his life estate, I am not able
to say — my utmost researches having failed to furnish
me with a copy of them — but they were so far satisfac
tory to his Lordship's legal conceptions, as to induce
him to resist even the execution of a decree pronounced
by Lord Hardwicke, in 1750, (1 Ves. sen. pp. 444: — 46)
upon a written compact as to boundaries, which had
been executed by his predecessor and the Penns, in 1732.
To enforce submission to that decree, the Penns filed a
bill of reviver in 1754, and after an ineffectual struggle of
six years. Lord Baltimore was compelled Avith a bad
grace to submit, and abide by the arrangement as to the
boundaries which had been made by his predecessor.
To this circumstance, iu all probability, was Lord Fair
fax indebted for his exemption from the further demands
of the proprietor of Maryland. For Lord Frederick, no
ways averse to "litigation, had by this time doubtless be-

Boundary Line. 79
come satisfied that the power of his predecessor did not
extend beyond his life estate, and might even conclude
those in remainder. Be that as it may, however, certain
it is that the records of Maryland are silent upon the
subject of this pretension, from September 1753, until
ten years subsequent to the compact betAveen Virginia
and Maryland in 1785.
An opinion prevails among some of our most distin
guished jurists, resting solely upon traditionary infor
mation, that about 1761, Frederick Lord Baltimore
presented a petition to the king and council, praying a
revision of the adjustment made in 1745, Avhich petition
was rejected, or after a short time abandoned, as hope
less. If there ever Avas such a proceeding, I can find
nothing concerning it in the archives of Virginia.
Be that as it may, it is certain that ever since 1745
Lord Fairfax claimed and held, and the commonwealth
of Virginia constantly to this day has claimed and held
by the Cohongoroota, that is by the northern branch, as
the Potomac ; and whatever Lord Baltimore or his heirs,
and the State of Maryland may have claimed, she has
field by the same boundary. There was no reason why
Lord Fairfax, being in actual possession, should have
controverted the claim of Lord Baltimore, or Maryland.
If Lord Baltimore or Maryland, ever controverted the
boundary, the question must, and either has been deci
ded against them, or it must have been abandoned as
hopeless. If they never controverted it, the omission to
do so, can only be accounted for, upon the suppo
sition that they know it to be hopeless. If Maryland
ever asserted the claim — seriously asserted it, I mean —
it must have been before the revolution, or at least during
it, when we all know, she was jealous enough of the ex
tended territory of Virginia. The claim must have had
its origin before the compact between the two states, of
March 1785, {See 1 Rev. Code, ch. 18.) We then held
by the same boundary by which we noAv hold ; we held

80 Boundary Line.
to Avhat %oe called and now call the Potomac ; she then
held to Avhat we call the Potomac. Is it possible to doubt
that this is the Potomac recognized by the compact?
That compact is now 47 years old.
I have diligently inquired whether, as the Potomac
above the confluence of the Shenandoah was called the
Cohongoroota, the stream now called the south branch
of the Potomac ever had any peculiar name independ
ently of its relation to the Potomac — I mean, of course,
auy peculiar, name known to and established among the
English settlers — for it is well known it bore the Indian
name of Wappacomo. 1 never could learn that it was
known by any other name but that which it yet bears,
the south branch of the Potomac. Now that very name
of itself sufficiently evinces that it Avas regarded as a
tributary stream of another river, and that river the Po
tomac, and that the river of Avhich the south branch was
the tributary, was regarded as the main stream.
But let us for a moment concede that the decision of
the King in council was not absolutely conclusive of the
present question ; let us concede that the long acqui
escence of Maryland in that adjustment has not pre
cluded a further discussion of its merits ; let us even
suppose the compact of 1785 thrown out of view, with
all the subsequent recognitions of the present boundary
by the legislative acts of that State, and the question be
tween the two streams now for the first time presented
as an original question of preference ; what are the facts
upon which Maryland Avould rely to show that auy other
stream than the one now bearing the name is entitled to
be regarded as the main branch of the Potomac ? It
were idle to say that the south branch is the Potomac
because the south branch is a longer or even larger stream
than the north branch, Avhich Virginia claims to hold
by. According to that sort of reasoning the Missouri,
above its confluence with the Mississippi, is the Missis
sippi, being beyond comparison the longer and larger

Boundary Line. 81
stream. The claim of the south branch, then. Would
rest solely upon its greater length. In opposition to this
it might be said that the Cohongoroota is more frequent
ly navigable, that it has a larger volume of water — that
the valley of the south branch is, in the grand scale of
conformation, secondary to that of the Potomac— thai ¦
the south branch has not the general direction of that"
river, which it joins nearly at right angles — that the-
valley of the Potomac is wider than that of the soutiv
branch, as is also the river broader than the other. And
lastly, that the course of the river and the direction of
the valley are the same above and below the junction of
the south branch. {See letters accompanying this re
port. No. 26.) These considerations have been deemed
sufficient to establish the title of "the father of waters"
to the name which he has so long borne. {See History
and Geography of Western States, vol. 2, Missouri.)
And as they exist in an equal extent, so should they
equally confirm the pre-eminence which the Cohongo
roota has now for near a century so proudly and peace
fully enjoyed.
The claim of Maryland to the territory in question is
by no means so reasonable as the claim of the great Fred
erick of Prussia to Silesia, which that prince asserted
and maintained, but which he tells us himself he never
would have thought of asserting if his father had not
left him an overflowing treasury and a powerful army.
With this brief historical retrospect, presented as ex
planatory of the accompanying testimony, I will now
lay before your excellency, in chronological order, a list
of the documents and papers referred to in my prece
ding observations.
No. 1. Is the original grant from King James II to
Thomas Lord Culpeper, made on the 27th September, in
the fourth year of his reign.
No. 2. Copy of a letter from Mayor Gooch, Lieuten-

82 Boundary Line.
ant Governor of Virginia, to the lord's commissioners
for trade and plantation«<, dated at Williamsburg, June
29th, 1729.
No. 3. Petition to the King in council in relation to
the Northern Neck grants and their boundaries, agreed
to by the house of burgesses June 30th, 1730.
No. 4. The petition of Thomas Lord Fairfax to his
Majesty in council, preferred in 1733, setting forth his
.grants from the crown, and that there had been divers
¦disputes between the Governor and Council in Virginia
•and the petitioner, and his agent, Robert Carter, Esq.,
touching the boundaries of the petitioner' s said tract of
land, and praying that his Majesty Avould be pleased to
order a commission to issue for running out, marking and
ascertaining the bounds of the petitioner's said tract of
land. No. 5. A copy of an order of his Majesty in his privy
council bearing date 29th of November, 1733, directing
William Gooch, Esq., Lieutenant Governor of Virginia,
to appoint three or more commissioners, (not exceeding
five,) who in conjunction with a like number to be named
and deputed by the said Lord Fairfax, are to survey and
settle the marks and boundaries of the said district of
land, agreeably to the terms of the patent under which
the Lord Fairfax claims.
No. 6. Copy of the commission from Lieutenant Gov
ernor Gooch to William Byrd, of Westover ; John Rob
inson, of Piscataway, and John Grymes, of Brandon,
appointing them commissioners on behalf of his Majesty,
with full power, authority, &c. , &c.
[I have not been able to meet Avith a copy of the com
mission of Lord Fairfax to his commissioners— they were
William Beverly, William Fairfax and diaries Carter.
It appears by the accompanying report of their proceed
ings that "his lordship's commissioners delivered to the
King's commissioners an attested copy of their commis
sion," which having been found upon examination more

Boundary Line. 83
restricted in its authority than that of the commission
ers of the Crown, gave rise to some little difficulty which
Avas subsequently adjusted.]
No. 7. Copy of the instructions on behalf of the right
honorable Lord Fairfax to his commissioners.
No. 8. Minutes of the proceedings of the commission
ers appointed on the part of his Majesty and the right
honorable Thomas Lord Fairfax, from their first meeting
at Fredericksburg, September 25th, 1736.
No. 9. Original correspondence between the commis
sioners during the years 1736 and 1737, in reference
to the examination and survey of the Potomac River.
No. 10. The original field notes of the survey of the
Potomac River, from the mouth of the Shenandoah to
the head spring of said Potomac River, by Mr. Benja
min Winslow.
No. 11. The original plat of the surA-ey of the Potomac
River. No. 12. Original letter from John Savage, one of the
surveyors, dated January 17, 1737, stating the grounds
upon which the commissioners had decided in favor of
the Cohongoroota over the Wappacomo as the main
branch of the Potomac. The former, he says, is both
wider and deeper than the latter.
No. 13. Letter from Charles Carter, Esq., dated Jan
uary 20, 1737, exhibiting the result of a comparative ex
amination of the north and south branches of the Poto
mac. The north branch at its mouth, he says, is tAventy-
three poles wide, the South branch sixteen, &c.
No. 14. A printed map of the Northern Neck of Vir
ginia, situate betwixt the rivers Potomac and Rappahan
nock, drawn in the year 1737, by William Mayo, one of
the King' s surveyors, according to his actual survey in
the preceding year.
No. 15. A printed map of the courses of the rivers
Rappahannock and Potomac, in Virginia, as surveyed

84 Boundary Line.
according to order in 1736 and 1737, (supposed to be by
Lord Fairfax's surveyors.)
No. 16. A copy of -a separate report of the commission
ers appointed on behalf of the Crown. [I have met with
no copy of the separate report of Lord Fairfax' s commis
sioners.] No. 17. Copy of Lord Fairfax's observations upon
and exceptions to the report of the commissioners of the
Crown. No. 18. Copy of the report and opinion of the right
honorable the lords of the committee of council for plan
tation affairs, dated 6th April, 1745.
No. 19. The decision of his Majesty in council, made
on the 11th of April, 1745, confirming the report of the
council for plantation affairs, aiiid further ordering the
Lieutenant Governor of Virginia to nominate three or more
persons (not exceeding five) who, in conjunction with a
like number to be named and deputed by Lord Fairfax,
are to run and mark out the boundary and dividing line,
according to his decision thus made.
No. 20. The original commission from Thomas Lord
Fairfax to the honorable Wm. Fairfax, Charles Car
ter and William Beverly, Esqs., dated 11th of June,
1745. [Col. Joshua Fry, Col. Lunsford Lomax and Maj.
Peter Hedgeman, Avere appointed commissioners on the
part of the Crown.]
No. 21. Original agreement entered into by the com
missioners preparatory to their examination of the Po
tomac River.
No. 22. The original journal of the journey of the com
missioners, surveyors, &c., from the head spring of the
Potomac in 1745. [This is a curious and valuable docu
ment, and gives the only authentic narrative noAv extant
of the planting of the Fairfax stone.]
No. 23. The joint report of the commissioners ap-

, Boundary Line. 85
pointed as Avell on the part of the Crown as of Lord Fair
fax in obedience to his Majesty's order of 11th April,
1745. No. 24. A manuscript map of the head spring of the
Potomac River, executed by Col. George Mercer of the
regiment commanded in 1756 by Gen. Washington.
No. 25. Copy of an act of the General Assembly of
Maryland passed February 19th, 1819, authorizing the
appointment of commissioners on the part of that State,
to meet such commissioners as may be appointed for the
same purpose by the Commonwealth of Virginia to set
tle and adjust, by mutual compact between the two gov
ernments, the western limits of that State and the Com
monwealth of Virginia, to commence at the most western
source of the north branch of the Potomac River, and to
run a due north course thence to the Pennsylvania line.
No. 26. Letters from intelligent and Avell informed in
dividuals residing in the country watered by the Poto
mac and its branches, addressed to the undersigned, sta
ting important geographical facts bearing upon the pres
ent controversy.
There are other papers in my possion not listed nor
referable to any particular head, yet growing out of and
illustrating the controversy between Lord Fairfax and
the Crown ; these are also herewith transmitted.
There are other documents again not at all connected
with my present duties, which chance has thrown in my
way, worthy of preservation in the archives of the State.
Such, for example, as the original "plan of the line be
tween Virginia and, North Carolina, which %oas run in
the year 1728, in the spring and fall, from the sea to
Peters' s Creek, by the Hon. Wm. Byrd, Wm. Dandridge
and Richard Fltzwtlliams, Esqrs., commissioners, and
Mr. Alex'r Irwine and Mr. Wm. Mayo, surveyors, and
from Petexs' s Creek to Steep Rook Creek, was continued
in the fall of the year, 1749, by Joshua Fry and Peter
Jefferson.''''

86 Boundary Line.
Such documents, should it accord Avith the views of
your excellency, might be deposited with " the Virginia
Historical and Philosophical Society," an institution of
recent origin, yet founded upon the most expanded views
of public utility, and which is seeking by its patriotic
appeals to individual liberality, to wrest from the rava
ges of time the fast- perishing records and memorials of
our early history and institutions.
With sentiments of regard, I am, very respectfully,
your obedient servant, Charles. Jas. Faulkner.
To John Floyd, Esq., Governor of Virginia.
The controversy between the two States pended for
some time after Mr. Faulkner's report, and in addition
to Col. John B. D. Smith, of Frederick, and John S.
Gallaher, Esq., of Jefferson, were appointed commission
ers on the part of Virginia.

CHAPTER VIII.
HISTORICAL PEN SKETCHES OF THE EARLY
RESIDENTS OF BERKELEY COUNTY,
WITH HAPPENINGS, Etc.
BY THE late HON. CHAS. JAMES FAULKNER.
^pHESE papers were preioared and written over fifteen
^1^ years ago, and like nearly all of Mr. Faulkner's
writings, relate in some manner to Berkeley County.
Among the papers, the author found one package marked
"Memorabilia" — or things to be remembered. Mr.
Faulkner prepared these sketches to accompany the
"Berkeley Centennial Celebration," but the pamphlet
was never published. HORATIO GATES,
A Major General in the army of the United States.
He was a native of England. He was with Braddock at
the time of his defeat, 1755, and was shot through the
body. He then purchased an estate in Berkeley County,
Virginia, where he resided until the commencement of
the American war in 1775, when he was appointed by
Congress Adjutant General, with the rank of Brigadier
General. The success Avhich attended his arms in the
capture of Burgoyne in October, 1777, filled America
with joy. Congress passed a vote of thanks, and ordered
a medal of gold to be presented to him by the President.
August 16th, 1780, he was defeated by Cornwallis at
Camden. He was superceded by General Greene, but in
1782 restored to his command. After peace, he retired

88 Historical Pen Sketches.
to his farm, called "Traveler's Rest," in Berkeley Coun
ty, where he remained till 1790, when he went to reside
at New York. He died on the 10th of April, 1806, aged
77 years. ALEXANDER WILSON,
Born in Paisly, Scotland, July eth, 1766— emigrated
to the United States, July 14th, 1794— settled in the
County of Berkeley, now in West Virginia, shortly after
his arrival, as a weaver. His residence here was marked
by great poverty, and does not seem to have left very
pleasant impressions on his mind, if we may judge by
the following lines extracted from one of his poems —
Farewell to Virginia— to Berkeley adieu,
AVhere, like Jacob, our days have been evil and few,
So few— they seemed really but one lengthened curse,
And so bad that the Devil only could have sent worse.
He was a man of unconquerable resolution and energy,
and of enthusiastic devotion to natural science. He had
completed the seventh volume of his great work on orni-
tholigy before he died, and Avas engaged, when seized
with his last illness, in collecting the materials for the
eighth volume. Of the many active men whose biogra
phies are before the public, there is not joerhaps one
whose life presents such heroic resolution in the pursuit
of science. He died August 23, 1813, and AA-as buried in
Philadelphia. DR. RICHARD McSHERRY
Was born in the County of Berkeley, upon the farm
known as "Retirement," near LeetoAvn, on the 28th of
May, 1792, and was the eldest son of Richard and Anas-
tatia McSherry, Avho both lived and died on the estate.
He was educated* at an academy at Fredericktown, Mary
land, then at Hagerstown, and lastly at Georgetown Col
lege, D. C, where he Avent through a full course of
instruction. He commenced the study of medicine under

Historical Pen Sketches. 89
Dr. Samuel J. Creamer, a graduate of Edinburg, and a
very accomplished physician, residing at Charlestown.
From thence he went to Philadelphia, and entered the
office of Prof. Nathaniel Chapman, of the University of
Pennsylvania, at Avhich University he graduated in med
icine in 1810. Meantime, Avhile attending the lectures,
the war of 1812 broke out, and he joined a company from
his native county, and marched to encounter our British
invaders ; and upon the death of the medical officer at
tached to the command, he was commissioned in his
place, and served as a surgeon in the army until the end
of the war. In 1816, he commenced the piactice of his
profession in Martinsburg, and erijoyed an extensive and
lucrative practice until 1871, AA-henhe withdrew from the
practice. He was married in January, 1817, to Miss Ann
C. King, daughter of Mr. George King, GeorgetoAvn,
whose family were of the early Maryland colonists. He
died in Baltimore, at the residence of his son, on the 20th
of December, 1873, and his remains Avere interred in the
Catholic cemetery of Martinsburg,
No man enjoyed a more enviable reputation than Dr.
McSherry. Asa physician he stood in the first rank of
his profession and by constant study, kept progress Avith
the advance of medical science. His mild and amiable
temper, bland and courageous deportment to all, made
him a general favorite. His reading extended beyond
the scope of his profesSi'^nal studies, and his familiarity
with history and general literature, made him at all
times an agreeable companion. He was kind and charit
able, and bore throughout life a reputation of unsullied
integrity. JOHN iVIYERS.
Born in the County of Berkeley, about the year 1765,
and lived all his life in the mountainous districts of the
county. He was a man of striding appearance, about
six feet, four inches in height, Avith no superfluous flesh,
and with a countenance indicating great natural intelli-

90 Historical Pen Sketches.
gence and intrepid daring. His Avhole life Avas spent in
hunting bears, deer and other game of the forest. He
was universally known by the name of "Hunter John
Myers." The chase Avas his pastime and his means of
support. His rifle was unerring in its aim, and rarely
did a wolf, bear or deer escape him. There was a savage
wilderness in his features, which indicated very clearly
hoAv little he had mingled in the haunts of civilized life.
If he was not the original from which the novelist Cooper
painted his celebrated character of Natty Bumppo, or
Leather-Stocking, he has by the force of imagination
delineated with extraordinary accuracy the hunter of
Berkeley. Myers, like Leather-Stocking, stands half way
between savage and civilized life ; a man with all the
freshness of nature about him, and whose like is only
to be seen at this day, amidst the Avild and unbroken
forests of the Avest. He died about the year 1835.
CHARLES D. STEWART.
For nearly half a century this gentleman held the office
of deputy Sheriff of this county. Each successive senior
magistrate as he attained the Sheriffalty, was pleased, as
the law then stood, to farm out for a flxed compensation
the discharge of its duties to one so distinguished for his
honesty and humanity as Charles D. Stewart. Few men
ever passed through so protracted an official service with
so little complaint of his conduct. He was prompt in
the execution of process, tender, yet firm and decided,
and he administered his charities so quietly and silently
that his left hand scarcely knew what his right had be
stowed. He died of the cholera in 1854.
RAWLEIGH COLSTON
Was born in England ; married Elizabeth Marshall,
sister of Chief Justice John Marshall ; purchased a large
estate upon the Potomac River in the County of Berke
ley, upon which he erected a handsome mansion. He,
in conjunction with his brother-in-laAvs, John and James
Marshall, purchased from the devisees of Thomas Lord

Historical Pen Sketches. 91
Fairfax, all their proprietary rights in the Northern
Neck of Virginia. Lord Fairfax being an alien at the
period of our revolution, and the State of Virginia treat
ing him as such, and alien creditors and landlords having
acquired rights under the treaty of peace of 1783, and
Jay's treaty of 1764, much perplexity and difficulty ex
isted in this and other counties embraced in the North
ern Neck as to their land titles. These difficulties were
adjuted by a compromise between those purchasers and
the Commonwealth of Virginia, made on the 10th of
December, 1796, by which the State confirmed the title
of all persons claiming under Fairfax to the lands which
had been specifically appropriated or reserved by Lord
Fairfax or his ancestors for his or their use ; the pur
chasers relinquishing their title to all the Avaste and un
appropriated lands in the Northern Neck. Under this
compromise, patents were issued without controversy for
all lands not then covered by patents from Lord Fairfax.
Mr. Colston was a man of literary tastes, and of large
commercial information, and took an active interest in
the cause of religion. On the 13th of June, 1814, he was
elected president of a Bible Society then organized in the
County of Berkeley, and his address to the public in
support of that cause, published in the Martinsburg
Gazette, of that period, is a document marked by literary
ability and deep Christian feeling. He died in 1823, and
was buried at Honeywood, his county seat, in this
county. He left a large family of sons and daughters, among
whom Avere Edward Colston, a representative in Congress
¦ from this district ; Mary, a lady of extraordinary beauty
and accomplishments, married to John Hanson Thomas,
of Maryland, a lawyer of great genius and promise, Avho
died in early life, and Susan, married to Benjamin Wat-
kins Leigh, one of Virginia's distinguished sons.
LIEUTENANT DAVID HUNTER,
Son of Col. Moses Hunter, was born in Berkeley county.

92 Historical Pen Sketches.
When quite a young man he Avas appointed an officer in
the United States army, and Avas assigned to duty on the
northern frontier. He Avas killed on the 11th of Novem
ber, 1813, near Williamsburg, on the shores of the St.
Lawrence, Canada. He was advancing Avith great intre
pidity upon a formidable column of one of the best ap
pointed detachments of the British Army, under a show
er of musketry and grape shot scarcely ever equaled,
and Avas exhorting his men to behave in a cool and de
termined manner, when he was struck by a canister shot,
which in a few minutes terminated his existence.
DANIEL BEDINGER
Was born in Berekley County. When in his sixteenth
year he ran away from home and joined a company of
volunteers and served throughout the revolutionary war.
He Avas captured at the battle of BrandyAvine on the 11th
of September, 1777, and Avas detained as a prisoner of
war until the British army evacuated Philadelphia in the
summer of 1778. After his exchange as a prisoner of
AA'ar, although he had suffered incredible hardships du
ring his captivity, he promptly returned to the army. —
He bore the rank of ensign during the Avar, and was ap
pointed Navy Agent at Gasport, Virginia, by President
Jefferson, and remained in office during his administra
tion. When the old frigate Constitution was dismantled
he purchased the masts, Avhich were used in the portico
of the house vAdiich he built near ShepherdstoAA'n, and
which house, then the property of Edmund I. Lee, who
had- married his daughter, was, by order of General
Hunter, burned during the late civil war. He AA-as a man
of vigorous and original mind, Avitli a decided talent for
poetical satire, and lines from some of his poems are,
after a lapse of nearly half a century, in the memory of
many persons. He died at his residence near Shepherds-
tovA'n in March, 1818, aged 54 years.
ABRAHAM SHEPHERD,
A captain in the revolutionary war. He volunteered as

Historical Pen Sketches. 93
a private in June, 1775, in the Berkeley County company,
commanded by Hugh Stephenson. He Avas elected a
lieutenant of that company in the place of Lieut. Thomas
Hite, who declined the commission, and marched Avith
the company to Boston in July, 1775. At the expiration
of its term of service, which was one year, he AA'as com
missioned the senior captain in a rifie regiment comman
ded by Col. Hugh Stephenson. He Avas very energetic
infilling his company, having enlisted out of the old
company twenty men to serve for three years, and return
ing to Berkeley in a short time enlisted seventy-one and
marched them to the field of operations in the north.
On the 4th of October, 1776, he arrived with his company
at Bergen Point, opposite New York, Avhere he found
Col. Rawlings in command of the regiment, Stephenson
having in the meantime died. On the 12th of Novenber
he Avas engaged for three successive days in severe skir
mishing at King's bridge. On the 16th he was engaged
in a severe action Avith the enemy, in which Col. Raw-
lings and Maj. Williams Avere severely wounded and
taken from the field, and the command of the regiment
devolved upon him. Finding himself overpowered by
superior numbers he returned slowly to Fort Washing
ton, about half a mile distant from the scene of action.
The fort was captured and all in it made prisoners of war.
Cap. Shepherd remained a prisoner until May, 1778. He
then returned to Berkeley County and remained there
until 1779. In the meantime the fifteen Virginia regi
ments were, by a resolve of Congress, reduced to eleven,
and many of the officers became supernumerary. Capt.
Shepherd called upon Gen. Washington and claimed his
right to be in active service as a senior captain in the
Virginia line. Gen. Washington regretted the necessity
that compelled so many valuable officers to retire as su
pernumeraries, and added that if the country should
hereafter Avant their services they Avould be notified to
join the army. Capt. Shepherd consequently retired

94 Historical Pen SketcJies.
from active service as a supernumerary for the remain
der of the Avar. He received a letter from Gen. Wash
ington but two months before the General's death, speak
ing of him as a "valuable officer in the revolutionary
war." He never filled auy public civil employment, but
Avas an active supporter and liberal contributor to local
improvements. He died on the 7tli of September, 1822,
in the 69th year of his age.
PHILIP NADENBOUSCH,
Born in Bedford, Pa., on the 20th of October, 1773,
emigrated to Berkeley County on the 4th day of July,
1799. He was commissioned a magistrate in 1807, and
was tAvice commissioned sheriff of Berkeley County. He
Avas the presiding justice of the county court for more
than twenty years. He died on the .'')th day of  1863.
He bore the reputation of an intelligent magistrate and
of an upright man. LEVI HENS HAW,
Born in Berkeley County on the 22d day of July, 1769.
He Avas for many years an active magistrate and member
of the County Court of Berkeley, and in 1821, 1822, 1830
and 1831, was elected a member of the House of Dele
gates of Virginia. He was highly respected and esteem
ed, and died at his residence on Mill Creek in the County
of Berkeley on the 9th of September, 1743.
JOEL WARD
Was born in the County of Berkeley on the 4th of May,
1781. He was for many years one of the most infiuen-
tial citizens and magistrates in the county. The grasp
and power of the intellect were admitted by all who come
into contact with him. He was in 1819, 1820 and 1828
elected to the legislature from this county, and ahvays
discharged his public duties Avith singular fidelity and
conscientiousness. He resided near Bunker Hill, on Mill
Creek, where he died on the 17th of February, 1837.
REV. BERNARD C. WOLFF, D. D.
Was born in Martinsburg, Berkeley County about

Historical Pen Sketches. 95
the year 1795. He Avas the son of George Wolff, Esq.,
one of our most conscientious and respectable magistra
tes. When the Avriter of this sketch first became ac
quainted Avith the son in 1822, he Avas Avorking at his
trade of saddler in Martinsburg, then in the 2Sth year of
his age. His intelligence, extensive reading and liter
ary attainments, Avere the subject of general remark ;
while his frank and fascinating manners, social tempera
ment public and unaffected piety, made him a universal
favorite. Every enterprise looking to the educational
moral and religious interests of this community found
in him an ardent advocate and energetic supporter. It
Avas therefore not a matter of surprise when it became
known, that he, then in the 36th year of his age, decided
to devote himself to the office of the holy ministry. —
After several years of preparatory study in the theolo
gical seminary of the German Reformed Church at York,
Pa., he received a call to the reformed Church at Easton,
in that State. In this field he labored for nine years,
and in the spring of 1845 was called to take charge of the
Third Reformed Church in Baltimore. A vacancy occur
ring in the theological seminary at Mercersburg, he was
elected to fill the vacant position, and in 1854 entered
upon his duties as professor of dogmatic and pastoral
theology. Owing to declining health, he resigned his
professorship in 1864, and removed to Lancaster city. —
Here he devoted much attentionto the interests of Frank
lin and Marshall College. About two years before he
died, he was attacked with paralysis and his active labor
on earth ceased. Gradually failing in his physical
strength, but with his mental powers still active, he
calmly and peacefully departed this life on the 31st day
of October, 1870, Avhile the last rays of an autumn sun
was illuminating the western sky with a flood of
glory. Bernard C. Wolff was no ordinary man. He AA^as the
model of a christian gentleman, always kind and cour-

06 Historical Pen Sketciies. *
teous, yet firm and decided in his principles, and untir
ing in his Avork. His views of the ministry were of the
most exalted character, and bis conduct and conversa
tions in the life fully corresponded with his concep
tions of its divine mission on earth.
COL. DAVID HUNTER
Was born in York, Pennsylvania, on the 3rd of May,
1761. Sometime during his early boyhood his parents
came to Virginia and settled near the site of Martins
burg, on what is still known as the "Red House Farm."
The precise date of his coming is unknown, but there is
reason for believing that the settlement was made du
ring the Governorship of Lord Dunmore, and before the
establishment of Berkeley County in 1772.
David, the youngest son of the family, acquired the
rudiments of his education, in a log school house loca
ted near the present crossing of Queen and Burke streets,
Avalking the whole way from his father's house (about
two miles to the northAvard) through unbroken forests.
Of his earlier life the traditions are few and vague and
scarcely worth reading. He was for sometime employed
as deputy assistant in the Clerk's office of Berkely
County, held by his brother, Moses Hunter, between the
years 1735 and 1748. About the year 1787 or '88 he went
to England on some business connected Avith the inter
ests of his family, and after his return about 1792, he
married Elizabeth, eldest daughter of Philip Pendleton,
and sister of the late Philip C. Pendleton. The county
Clerkship becoming vacatit by the death of his eldest
brother, David Hunter, competed for the place Avith
Major Henry Bedinger. Bedinger Avas elected by the
vote of the magistrate, but it being apparant that some of
the electors had been controlled by improper influences,
the election was contested by Col. Hunter in the courts.
After several years of litigation his case was sustained,
and he was put in possession of the office in 1803, and
held it until his death. About the year 1811 Avhile Avalk"

Historical Pen Sketches. 97
ing out Avith some friends on the Walnut Flats, near
Stephen's Dam, he attempted to leap a narrow gulley,
fell and broke his leg, from the effects of which he was
lame for life. Hence the cane and limp which are re
membered by all who knew him in his latter days.
As the floAver of his life passed during the interval be
tween the Revolution and the War of 1812, Colonel Hunter
was never in the military service and his title was proba
bly derived from a commission in the militia, and while
he was one of most generally esteemed and influential
men in the district, the possession of the responsible and
(then) lucrative Clerkship, effectually debarred him from
seeking political distinction, then, as now, more honora
ble than profitable. He was nevertheless, like most of
the gentlemen of his circle at that day, a strong Federal
ist, and when that party rejoiced in the downfall of
Napoleon Bonaparte in 1818, he was chosen to preside at
a barbecue dinner given in honor of the event by 'the
Federalists of Berkeley and adjacent Counties of Virgin
ia and Maryland. This celebration took place on the
16th of September, 1813, at Swearengen' s Spring on the
Potomac River above Shepherdstown, and was cleverly
caricatured as "the Cossack Celebration" in some satiri
cal verse written by a gentleman of the opposite party,
and well remembered to this day. The motives and jus
tification of the assembly are set forth however, in a
document, still extant, bearing evidences of the sincerity
and ability of its framers, and well worth perusal at this
day. Colonel Hunter died on the 22nd of March, leaving a
large family of sons and daughters, only one of whom it
is believed, is still living.
Prom the traditions of his earlier life, we learn that
Colonel Hunter Avas a person handsome, athletic and
graceful, courteous and dignified in maiiner ; in conver
sation full of humorous and entertaining anecdotes, the
result of travel and observation, rather than reading and

98 ' Historical Pen Sketches.
books. He Avas especially remarkable for his strong
practical sense and keen insight into character, rarely
erring in his judgment of men with whom he came in
contact ; yet kindly and generous withal — leaving the
impression both in physique and character, of one of the
finest types among our early settlers.
]\IAJOR GENERAL THOMAS SIDNEY JESSUP
Was born in the County of Berkeley, in 1788 and en
tered the army in 1808 as a second lieutenant of the sev
enth infantry. So rapid was his promotion, that in 1812
l\e was brigade major, and acting adjutant general to
TBrigadier General Hull. In 1813 he was major of the
19th infantry ; transferred in 1814 to the 25th infantry
as brevet lieutenant colonel, for distinguished and
meritorious bravery in the battle of Chippewa, of the
5th of July, 1814. In November of the same year, he
was breveted colonel for gallant conduct and distin
guished skill in the battle of Niagara, of the 25th of July,
1814, in which he was severely wounded. On the reduc
tion of the army in 1815, we was retained in the first
infantry, and in 1817 was lieutenant colonel of the third
infantry. In 1818 he was appointed adjutant general
with the rank of colonel ; and the same year, Quarter-
malster General, with the rank of Brigadier General ; and
was breveted Major General in May, 1828, for ten years
meritorious service. He was assigned to the command
of the army in the Creek nation, Alabama, in 1836, and
succeeded Gen. Call in Florada on the 8th of December,
1836 ; was wounded in action with the Seminole Indians
near Jupiter Inlet on the 24th of January, 1838 ; and was
succeeded by Col. Z. Taylor on the 15th of May 1838 ;
whereupon he returned to the duties of his department,
which he managed with distinguished ability.
He continued at the head of the Quartermaster' s de
partment of the United States, until the period of his
death, which occurred on the 10th day of June, 1860. —
The writer of this sketch, who Avas himself at one time

Historical Pen Sketches. 99
Chairman of the committee on military affairs of the
House of Representatives, knew Gen. Jessup well, and
had an opportunity of estimating his valuable services to
the country. To his fine military capacity in the field,
he added great administrative ability. In the manage
ment of the vast concerns of the Quartermaster's depart
ment, he evinced great foresight, but the labor developed
upon him by the Mexican war, in managing the details
of the campaign in a far distant country, can only be
properly appreciated by those who shared in its difficul
ties and responsibilities. A grateful country must ever
bear in honorable remembrance the services of the vet
eran soldier and gentleman whose name and fame will
go down to posterity as a portion of the brightest mili
tary records. ROBERT COCKBURN, JR.,
The son of Robert Cockburn, of Cockburn Hill, east of
Martinsburg, was born in 1775. When I first knew the
father he was, at least 80 years of age. His long, flowing
white hair, covering his shoulders and reaching far down
his back, and his snowy beard sweeping to his waist,
gave a striking and picturesque appearance to the old
man. It was said, that he had been college-bred ; that
he had been educated in the best schools in Scotland and
that he had amassed a rich fund of classical lore and his
torical knowledge.
"Cockburn Hill," as it was then called, with its exten
sive orchard of cherries was well known to every boy in
Martinsburg ; and often has many an idle and truant
urchin roused the excitable temper of the old hermit by
pillaging his fruit before it was quite ripe. When ma
tured and proper to be eaten, no one could be more
generous and liberal than he was in the license granted
to gather it.
He had two sons, Adam and Robert. Adam was a
dull and stupid boy ; Robert the genius of the family,
.and upon him did the hopes of the old man repose. He

100 Historical Pen Sketches.
was smart, loquacious, disputatious, and brimful of
egotism, pertness and conceit. He had an extravagant
idea of his scholarship and of his poetical talents. He
selected the vocation of a schoolmaster. The birch and
the ferule were no idle implements in his hands. He
was self indulgent to his own vices, but inexorably severe
on the peccadilloes of his pupils. He had all the learn
ing at that period of our educational history, deemed
necessary to an instructor of youth.
'Twas certain he could write and cypher, too,
Lands he could measure, terms and tides presage
And e'en, the story ran, that he could guage.
In arguing, too, the parson owned his skill.
For e'en tlio' vanquished he could argue still.
But it was not in his character of a schoolmaster that
he became entitled to be noticed in these humble
sketches. His gay, frolicsome and social temper — his
familiarity with all games and pastimes at rural enter-
taiments, his capacity for extemporaneous rhyming —
made him the hero of all apple-butter boilings, quilting
parties, cotillion assemblies and corn-husking festivities,
for miles around. No party was deemed complete unless
graced by the presence of " Bob Cockburn." He sang,
played on the fiddle, told funny stories and extemporized
verses for the relief of those who were amerced in poetical
forfeits. But such a round of dissipation in those days
of apple-jack and whisky — when no temperance lecturer
had ever been heard of in the land — in the course of a
few years began to tell on the habits of the frolicsome
pedagogue — his nose began to blush — his eyes became
weary and inflamed — and he soon fell under the domin
ion of that tyrant who has never been known to show
mercy or compassion to his helpless victims.
Bob was a patriot as well as a poet ; at least I am jus
tified in thinking so from a poem of his which I have
seen in an old number of the Martinsburg Gazette and
what is the only specimen of his poetical genius which

Historical Pen SketcJies. 101
has survived "the wreck of the matter and the crash of
worlds." I can only take a short extract from it.
It was written in June, 1818, one of the gloomiest pe
riods of our last war with Great Britian. Norfolk, Ports
mouth and all the toAvns and cities on the Chesapeake
Bay and James River were threatened by a powerful
navy and military force of the enemy. Two of the flnest
companies from "old Berkeley " were then at the scene
of battle, encountering the pestilential air of the swamps
of Norfolk, and the fire of the enemy, in protecting the
sacred soil of Virginia from invasion, pillage and mur
der. The poem commences by representing a Berkeley
youth deeply enamored of a charming girl dwelling on
the crystal Avaters of the Tuscarora. He voavs his love
in most passionate terms ; declares that for years her en
chanting image has wholly absorbed his heart, and asks
in a delirium of despair, what he shall do to assure him
of the reward of his long and devoted affection for her.
The Tuscarora maiden, in the spirit of Boadicea, thus re
plies to him : If j'ou sincerely wish my favor
Then you possess a patriot mind ;
Your country droops, advance to save her.
Nor sighing, linger here behind.
Hear the inspiring shouts of praise —
On to glory ! — loud they call j-pu !
See youthful heroes crowned with bays
Their envied lot may yet befall you.
Robert Cockburn died on Cockburn Hill in 1834, in the
49th year of his age.
JOHN R. COOKE
AVas born in 1788, in Bermuda, the son of Dr. Stephen
Cooke and Catharine Esten. He came, with his parents,
to Alexandria, thence to the vicinity of Leesburg, where
his father had a jolace called the '"Forest." He never
went to college, as his eyes suddenly failed him whilst

102 Historical Pen Sketches.
preparing for it. He settled in Martinsburg about 1810,
where he commenced the practice of laAv. In 1814 he
was elected to the House of Delegates from the county.
He married in Martinsburg a daughter of Col. Philip
Pendleton, and continued his residence there for a period
of nearly twenty years. He subsequently removed from
this county to Winchester, thence to Baltimore and
thence to Richmond. Enjoying a high degree of popu
larity, political position might with him have been a mat
ter of easy attainment, but, earnestly devoted to his pro-
fession,he resisted the appealsof thatcharacterwhichwere
frequently made to him. He was, with great unanimity,
elected a member of the Constitutional Convention of
Virginia of 1830, and there exhibited the nerve and abil
ity to grapple with such intellectual giants as Leigh,
Upshur, Randolph and Tazewell in the discussion of the
great question of extended suffrage and equal represen
tation before that body. His professional abilities were
of the highest order and universally recognized. In the
celebrated Randolph will case, argued in 1836, his great
and peculiar powers of argumentation were strikingly
exhibited. E. V. Sparhawk, the reporter of that trial,
a very competent judge, and who heard all the argu
ments in the case, thus speaks of Mr. Cooke's effort:
"It was a masterly production. He classifies and ex
pounds his facts with great strength and clearness, and
arranges his authorities and arguments in the most for
cible manner. His method of arguing is superior to any
man at the bar. Instead of dividing his strength upon
the separate points, his whole speech was but one point,
for the support of which all the other various facts and
considerations of the case were brought together in pyra
midal strength and harmony."
Mr. Cooke was a bold, trenchant and vigorous writer.
His able and elaborate pamphlets published iu 1825 en
titled "The Constitution of 1776," followed by "The
Convention Question," iu 1827, and then again by "An

Historical Pen Sketches. 103
Earnest Appeal to the Friends of Reform" in 1828, at
tracted the attention of the whole State to him and
largely contributed to the passage of the law organizing
the Constitutional Convention of 1829 and 1830, of which
he himself was an active and conspicuous member. Mr.
Cooke opened the " great debate" in that body by an
unsparing attack upon the then existing constitution of
Virginia, and asserted for himself, beyond all question,
the position of leader of the friends of reform in a body
confposed of the ablest men from Western Virginia.
In 1835 he yielded to the importunity of his friends
and very reluctantly accepted the Whig nomination for
Congress in this District. Once accepted, however, he
entered into the canvass with his usual and characteristic
energy and pluck. His address to the people in the sev
eral Court Houses of the district were models of lucid
statement, pungent, invective and eloquent demonstra
tion. The writer of this heard his address in Martins
burg. The court-room was crowded to excess. Not a
man stirred or left the hall during the two hours that he
was speaking. It was one of the most logical, perspicu
ous and powerful arguments that he ever hurled from
the hustings.
No one was better qualified to judge of his intellectual
merits than the late James Marshall, of Winchester. In
1866 he thus spoke of Mr. Cooke to a friend :
" The finest faculty of his mind was his power of rea
soning — his clearness of judgment. His narrative in a
case was the best I ever knew. It might be said of him
as Webster said of Hoffman, that his case " once stated,
Avas already argued." He was very rash in his charities,
unbounded I may say in liberality. His power of labor
was very uncommon. I never saw such great labor. He
had the clearest mind I ever saw. If a witness or any
one in a case was acting dishonestly, \q attacked him
without mercy. He was remarkable in philippie. He
had a very keen appreciation of equity, morals and man-

104 Historical Pen Sketches.
ners, and if they Avere Avanting on such occasions he con-
ceiA^ed a great contempt for the individual and denounced
him bitterly and powerfully. He had a great practice."
David Holmes Conrad, in a letter, refers to him as
" the model of lofty courtesy, chivalry and generosity."
Another said that when he died "he did not leave an
enemy on the bosom of the spacious earth."
This apparent hyperbole is undoubtedly near the truth.
He was a man of extraordinary suavity and amenity — of
unvarying sweetness of temper. In social life he rarely
exhibited any feelings of anger, and was characterized
by a remarkable patience and benevolence. His gener
osity knew no bounds. He seemed to place no value
upon money. He gave it away to everybody and to
every object.
He died in the city of Richmond in December, 1854,
in the 67th year of his age.
MAGNUS TATE
Was born in Berkeley County in 1760. He was a man
of superior intelligence and a farmer by occupation. He
Avas twice elected from the county to the House of Dele
gates of Virginia, in 1797 and 1798. He was commis
sioned a magistrate in 1799, and tAvice commissioned
Sheriff of the county in 1819 and 1820, and elected to the
House of Delegates in 1803, 1809 and 1810. He had much
of the old Virginia character about him in his tastes and
habits. He was fond of dogs and horses, and in his
younger days a keen fox hunter. His house was the
abode of a generous hospitality, and the lovers of whist,
music and the dance could alAvays find an opportunity
there to gratify their appetites for pleasures.
In January, 1815, he announced himself a candidate
for Congress for the district composed of the counties of
Berkeley, Jefferson, Hardy and Hampshire, and he Avas
triumphantly elected. His address to the freeholders of
the district prior to the election is all that now remains
of this gentleman to show the temper of the man and

Historical Pen Sketches. 105
the character of his intellect, and certainly his descend
ants have no reason to be ashamed 6f it, either upon the
score of its sentiments or of its ability. We give it
entire :
" To the freeholders of the district composed of the coun
ties of Berkeley, Hampshire, Hardy and Jefferson :
Fellow Citizens :— I offer myself to your considera
tion as a candidate to represent you in the next Con
gress of the United States. It is passible the curious
may be disposed to inquire why I have become a candi
date without the sanction of a committee. To this in
terrogatory I answer that the recent method of nomina
ting candidates by committee, however highly I may in
cline to appreciate the practice, is, nevertheless, as it
seems to me, no way jjreferable to the ancient custom
which everyone understands. Again, I have been in
duced to declare myself at this time and in this way by
the request of my friends, who think with me it is the
wish of a majority of the freeholders of the district. If,
however, we should be mistaken in this particular, Avhat-
ever the result may be, I will cheerfully submit to when
fairly ascertained on the day of election. All I desire is
to give the people an opportunity of making a selection,
and all I ask is an unbiased expression of public opin
ion. This manner of proceeding appears perfectly con
genial with the first principles of our government, with
all our political institutions, and consequently can be
liable to no rational objection. Here, perhaps, it may
not be improper to premise that I trust my deportment
on this occasion will be found fair and manly, and that
if I should meet with an opponent he shall receive from
me all the politeness and decorum due from one gentle
man to another.
To those gentlemen in the upper parts of the district
with whom I have not the pleasure of a personal ac
quaintance, I am pursuaded I shall be exonerated from
the charge of egotism and of complimenting myself when

106 Historical Pen Sketches.
they are informed that I am a farmer, in the middle
walks of life, and that if honored with their suffrages
my circumstances are such that I will neither be driven
from the path leading to the prosperity of our country
by want or poverty, nor allured from it by avarice or am
bition. Citizens of the district, if an ardent attachment to my
native soil ; if many friends and relatives whom I esteem
and venerate ; if a numerous progeny intertwined with
every moral perception of my heart ; if either or all these
considerations firmly combined can rivet a man to his
country and to liberty — these motives, these induce
ments, which, in my estimation, are the most powerful
that can operate on the human mind, shall be left by
me, as pledges."
He was associated in his legislative labors with such
men as Henry Clay, Daniel Webster, John C. Calhoun,
William Lowndes, John Randolph, William Gaston,
Philip P. Barbour, Henry St. George Tucker and a host of
others, all members of that House almost equally distin
guished by their geniuses and reputations. In those
days the committees of the House were few and small,
and the active business of the body was left in the hands
of its leading statesmen. Not as now, when every man
in Congress, no matter how inferior, must have his hour,
and grind out that hour in a written speech, whether lis
tened to or not, or whether written by himself or by a
clerk in the departments. The rule now is to put every
member on some committee. The rule then was to put
on committe duty only the most competent and distin
guished. Mr. Tate lived almost two and a half miles southwest
from Martinsburg, on a farm since purchased by Wm.
Walker. He left a large family of sons and daughters.
He died on the 30th of March, 1823.
JOHN BOYD,
Father of Gen. Elisha Boyd and a native of England,

Historical Pen SketcJies. 107
Avas one of the earliest settlers in the County of Berke
ley. He acquired his land in this county by original
grant from Lord Fairfax, the patents of which are still
preserved by his descendants. He resided near the North
Mountain, about five miles west of Martinsburg. He was
a man of herculean frame of body, and some anecdotes
are related of his hand to hand conflicts with the Indians,
which demanded all his activity and strength, but in
which he was generally victor.
He was married about the year 1754, to Sarah Gryfyth,
a native of Wales, and died in the year 1800, leaving
eight children, born in the following order, to wit :
Charles, Margaret, Fulton, John, William, Rachel, Bay-
ley, Elijah, Mary, Munf ord and Elisha ; the first born on
the 13th of April, 1756, and the last on the 6th of Octo
ber, 1769.
His widow, Sarah Boyd, survived him some years, dy
ing in 1806. With the exception of Elisha, the children
were among the earliest emigrants to Kentucky. It is
said that Hon. Lenn Boyd, of Kentucky, for several years
Speaker of the House of Representatives, was one of
that stock, and his striking resemblance to Gen. Boyd
in stature, feature and general appearance would seem
to confirm that remark. WILLIAM SMITH,
most generally known as "Burgess Billy Smith," was
born in Sleepy Creek about the year 1747, in that por
tion of the colony of Virginia which was subsequently
embraced in the County of Berkeley. He had an insa
tiable ambition to become a member of the legislature.
Shortly after the creation of the County of Berkeley in
1772 he became a candidate for the House Burgess, and
continued his candidacy, without success, for several
years, from which he acquired the soubriquet of " Bur
gess Billy." After the revolutionary war was ended and
the State constitution of 1776 was adopted, dividing the
legislative department into a Senate and House of Dele-

108 Historical Pen SketcJies.
gates, he pressed his claims for election , to the House of
Delegates from year to year, but still without success.
When Morgan Avas formed into a separate county in 1820
he regularly entered the field every year for a seat in the
legislature. At the April election in 1830 the aspirations
and struggles of a long life were gratified by an election,
. but the adoption of the new constitution in the follow
ing August set aside the election and dashed and disap
pointed the hopes of his life. He never afterward had
the heart to aspire to the place, and died a few years
afterward, deeply impressed with the incapacity of the
people to select competent and i^roper agents to serve
them. He Avas a man of remarkable astuteness and cun
ning, and although unable to read or write, no one was
ever found smart enough to take advantage of those de
ficiencies. He was said to have been the first child born
in the Sleepy Creek Valley. HENRY CLAY.
When this illustrious statesman Avas Secretary of State
under the younger Adams, and when, like the an tiered
monarch of the forest, he was almost driven to bay by
the fierce blood-hounds of party under the foul and loath
some cry of "bargain and corruption," he sought, in
July, 1827, a temporary refuge from this pitiless storm
of calumny in a visit to some of his cherished friends in
Berkeley County. He spent some days in Martinsburg,
and it is needless to say that he was received here with
all the enthusiasm due to his exalted genius and patriot
ism. He decided to pay a brief visit to the Berkeley
Springs, and a gentleman noAv residing in our county,
accompanied him in a carriage. When, about 2 o'clock
in the day, they reached what Avas called the Halfway
House, a sort of tavern kept by Dick Sheckles, a man of
enormous proportions, fat and unwieldy, and weighing
near four hundred pounds, they found the old landlord
sitting in the shade before his house, indulging in his
usual habit in the hot days of summer, of keeping him-

Historical Pen SketcJies. 109
self cool by burying his feet in the earth and piling it
up around his legs nearly as high as his knees. The
arrival of the carriage did not in the least disturb the
placidity of the unwieldy landlord. When Mr. Clay ap
proached the house his traveling companion presented
him to Mr. Sheckles, saying : " Permit me to introduce
to you the present Secretary of State, Henry Clay, of .
Kentucky." With that the old gentleman gazed for a
moment at the tall, spare and erect figure before him,
and rising to his feet said : ' ' Did you say this was Henry
Clay, of Kentucky ? Why, I tfhought he was a great big
man like a king 1 " "No, Mr. Sheckles," said Mr. Clay,
" you are more kingly in your proportions than I am.
You see in me nothing but a broken down public ser
vant, worn almost to a skeleton by State and the calum
nies of my enemies."
In May, 1844, Mr. Clay was invited by a public mass-
meeting of his friends in this county to visit Martins
burg and to partake of the hospitalities of the county.
We take an extract from the letter of invitation, as it
contains some facts worthy of remembrance :
Martinsburg, Va., March 14th, 1844.
To the Hon. Henry Clay :
Sir — The County of Berkeley boasts of some historical
recollections connected with your fame, which she is not
disposed shall at the present period be lost sight of or
forgotten. She looks with a becoming pride to that sa
gacity which prompted her sons some twenty years ago
to seek to give in your person that direction to public
sentiment which it is now receiving from the patriotism
and sagacity of the whole Union. It was here, in this
very county — by action of the people in primary assem
bly, on the 14th of June, 1824, that your name was first
presented to the people of Virginia, as a candidate for
that exalted station, for which you uoav stand nominated
in the hearts of near two millions of your admiring coun
trymen. It was here — in this county — that the electoral

110 Historical Pen SJietcJies.
ticket Avas framed and announced, which presents your
claim to the suffrages of your native State. The short
period which elapsed after the annunciation of that
ticket, connected with the circumstance, that your claims
were brought in competition with an elder of the Repub
lican party, holding the same general principles of policy
with yourself, and also a native of this State, prevented
your receiving that support in this commonwealth, which
none at that time denied to be due to your patriotism,
exalted character and eminent public services. Still
Berkeley by her recorded vote, preferred you then, as
she has ever preferred you since and as she prefers you
now, to all living statesmen, as the representative of her
principles in the administration of the national govern
ment. She gave you her confidence without reserve in
1824, and she has continued that confidence without
change or shadow to the present hour. She has with an
abiding faith sustained you amidst all the fierce and
bitter conflicts of party, confidently looking forward to
the day now reaching its meridian splendor — when your
name would kindle its just enthusiasm in every patriotic
bosom, and all sections of this vast country hail you as
the hope of this great Republic.
The invitation Avas declined for the reason set forth in
his reply :
Washington, D. C, May 1st, 1844.
Gentlemen :
I feel greatly flattered, honored, and obliged by the
invitation which you have transmitted to me to visit
Berkeley County and partake of its hospitality, and by
the friendly sentiments which accompany it. I feel,
with gratitude, and acknowledge with pleasure, my great
obligations to Berkeley, for its uniform and ardent at
tachment and confidence for me ; and I should be most
happy, under other circumstances, to meet and exchange
friendly salutations with my fellow citizens of that coun
ty ; but considerations, both of a public and private

Historical Pen SketcJies. ill
nature, in my judgment, require of me hereafter to avoid
attendance upon large assemblages of my fellow citizens
and I hope that the determination, to which I have come,
on that subject, will command the approbation of you,
gentlemen, and of those whom you represent. So numer
ous and constant are my occupations and so frequent
have been the invitations which I have received, and am
still receiving to public assemblages, that I am compelled
to be much briefer, in my replies, than I would wish
to be.
I pray you gentlemen to accept yourselves and tender
to those whom you represent my respectful and grateful
acknowledgments. I am Avith great respect.
Your friend and obedient servant, H. Clay.
Mr. Clay's second visit to the County of Berkeley was
in January, 1848. He was then going to Washington to
argue a case before the Supreme Court of the United
States. Having some days to spare, he determined to
spend a short time in this county, with a friend. The
presidential question was then agitating the public mind,
and it had not been determined whether the nominee of
the Whig party would be General Taylor or himself.
The private mansion at which he stopped was freely
opened to all his friends and there are many now living
amongst us who will remember with delight, the wonder
ful power and fascination of his conversation, when in
unrestrained intercourse with his friends.
He spoke with his characteristic frankness and free
dom of the pending Presidential canvass ; made no secret
either of his work or of his expectation of receiving the
nomination of the approaching Whig convention ; read
a correspondence between himself and Gen. Z. Taylor,
embracing several letters in which the old hero of Buena
Vista whilst freely conceding the superior party claims
of Mr. Clay to the nomination, and expressing his indi
vidual wishes that he might receive it, declares that he

112 Historical Pen SketcJies.
had no agency whatever in having his name presented in
competition with Mr. Clay's, yet with modest firmness
stated, that it was not his business to interfere with the
progress of public sentiment, and the convention must
be left free to make its selection in the best interests of
the party and country.
The writer of this has never known Mr. Clay to be
more joyous and cheerful than upon the occasion of this
last visit to the County of Berkeley. He felt indeed
that he was in the house of his frieiids. He seemed
eager to promote universal enjoyment around him. He
encouraged the dance, music — caressed the children, told
amusing anecdotes to the ladies ; and when in his graver
moments, he retired to the library, and there, surrounded
by many of our citizens, portrayed the characters of our
leading public men and expatiated upon what he deemed
the true policy of the Government, all felt thatthey were
in the presence of a patriot, orator and statesman, of
whom the country might indeed be justly proud.
I have pondered over the inquiry, Hoav was it that this
bold and unequalled leader of a great party, this noblest
type of American manhood, this most prominent orator,
patriot and statesman of his day, could never reach the
goal of his lofty and honorable ambition — the Presidency?
Was he too bold, too independent, too little of the poli
tician to suit the then cravings of party cupidity ? Is it
a position only suited to men of inferior and moderate
abilities ? Are all of our really great men to be hereafter
excluded from the enjoyment of its honors ? Was it
attributable to the secret infiuences of rival candidates,
that Mr. Clay lost his nomination ? Was it to be ascribed
to that natural jealousy which great, brilliant and com
manding minds attract ? Was it to the office seeking
demagogues who fill our conventions, and who are ever
on the alert to find out whom they think the most
"available" candidate, without regard to merit? Or
was it to that caprice and ingratitude which so often

. Historical Pen SketcJies. 113
darkens the history of Republics, and which causes them
to banish from their confidence, a citizen because they
are tired of hearing everybody styling him ' ' Aristides
the Just ?" These are questions which it may be well at
some future day to consider, and to find their solution if
possible. MARTIN VAN BUREN,
Eighth President of the United States, made a visit to
Martinsburg in 1830, whilst Secretary of State under
General Andrew Jackson. He stopped at the Globe
Hotel, then kept by William Kroesen. The writer of
this sketch made a respectful Call upon him, and spent
a pleasant evening in his company. His trip was one
simply of recreation. He spoke of the pleasure which
he derived from his excursion, and was emphatic in his
praise of the soil and scenery of this Valley. He was
not at that time much of a favorite with our people, of
either party, and but little enthusiasm was manifested
at his presence. FISHER AMES.
This distinguished orator and statesman, at the close
of the session of Congress of 1796, being then in feeble
health, paid a visit to the warm springs in the County of
Berkeley, in the hopes of obtaining some relief from his
increasing debility. He thought he derived much benefit
from drinking the water ; also from our pure and fresh
mountain air, and relaxation from the unremitting cares
of public life. In this visit he was the object of the most
friendly and respectful attention, individual and public.
Contrary to his expectations, he found many friends of
the Washington administration during this visit, not.
withstanding the lead taken by the Representatives of
Virginia in opposition to that policy. In one of his let
ters from Berkeley he observes "Virginia has been mis
represented to us, as much as the measures of govern-

114 Historical Pen SketcJies.
ment have been to them ; and many good men are here
to be found friendly to the federal cause."
From his visit to Berkeley in 1796 his health continued
to decline, with partial and fiattering intermissions untij
death. He was a striking example of magnanimity and
patience under suffering. Retaining always , the vigor
and serenity of his mind, he appeared to make those re-
fiections which became his situation. When speaking
-of his illness, he observed, ' ' I trust I realize the value
•of those habits of thinking which I have cherished for
:-3ome time. Sickness is not wholly useless to me. It
lias increased the warmth of my affection for my friends.
It has taught me to make haste in forming the plan of
my life, if it should be spared, more for private duties
and social enjoyments, and less for the splendid empti
ness of public station, than yet I have done."
After an extreme debility of two years, the frame
which had so long tottered was about to fall. With
composure and dignity he met the approach of his disso
lution. Fisher Ames will ever rank among the great statesmen
of this country. Excepting Daniel Webster, I know of
no public man of the North whose fame rests upon a
more indisputable basis of genius and merit. His speech
in the House of Representatives on the British Treaty of
1790 has been regarded as one of the finest specimens of
Congressional eloquence ever uttered in that body — and
many passages of it of surpassing brilliancy are remem
bered and quoted to this day, although near a century
has elapsed since they Avere delivered.
WM. H. CRAWFORD,
In his visit to the Berkeley Springs, spent several days
in Martinsburg, going and returning in the summer of
1824. He was in the early part of that year, beyond all
question, the most formidable candidate for the Presi
dency. He had withdrawn from the canvass in favor of

Historical Pen Sketches. 115
Mr. Monroe and was considered in some sense his des
tined successor. He Avas nominated as such by a Con
gressional caucus on the 14th of February, 1824— that
being the mode which up to that day had been adopted
by the Democratic party to indicate its choice for the
Presidency. But the powerful opposition of four Demo
cratic competitors— Calhoun, Jackson, Adams and Clay
— followed by a severe attack of paralysis, blasted his
prospect of election, he receiving but the solid votes of
Virginia and Georgia and portions of the votes of New
York, Maryland and Delaware.
It was to get relief from this crushing affliction that he
visited the Berkeley Springs in the summer of 1824. But
the healing waters of those celebrated springs were im-
poetnt to give the desired relief. During his passing
visits to Martinsburg he received the warmest sympathies
of its citizens, who vied with each other in showing him
•every attention and respect.
THOMAS DAVIS, M. D.,
Was born in Kentucky, and Avas a favorite prot6g6 of
the distinguised Dr. Lewis Marshall of that State. He
became a resident and citizen of this county about the
year 1820. He practiced his profession as a physician
for about ten years in Martinsburg, but his excessive
devotion to literature and history caused him to become
indifferent to the practice of his profession, and after his
marriage to the daughter of a very wealthy farmer of the
county, he abandoned it altogether and retired to the
country. He was a man of acute and powerful intellect,
of extensive reading and a vigorous and forcible writer.
In literary attainments and in profound historical re
search, he was almost without an equal. He left here
for Natchez in 1843, with a view there of resuming the
practice of his profession. Within a month after his
arrival there, the yellow fever broke out with fearful
mortality, and he fell a victim himself to the fearless

116 Historical Pen SketcJies.
discharge of his professional duties. The writer of this
paid a visit to his grave in January, 1845, and dropped a
tear to the memory of one of the noblest and truest of
men. He founded the Martinsburg Library, which for
so many years was supported and cherished in this place ;
and in the important session of 1831 represented this
county, with signal ability, in the House of Delegates of
Virginia.

'o'

JOHN S. gallaher
Was born in Martinsburg, Berkeley County, Va., De
cember 1st, 1796. His only school education was ob
tained between the ages of five and twelve, in the old
stone school house in the north-eastern portion of the
town, under the tuition of "an excellent Irish gentleman
of the olden time," Capt. Jas. Maxwell, long the County
Surveyor. On the fourth day of April, 1809, he entered
the printing office of Mr. John Alburtis, editor of the
Berkeley and Jefferson Intelligencer, afterwards the
Martinsburg Gazette.
After an apprenticeship of five years, Mr. G. worked a
few weeks in Baltimore, principally upon Nile's Regis
ter. In August, 1814, being in CharlestoAvn, in charge of
the Far mef s Repository, while its editor, Capt. Rich
ard Williams, was in the military service at Norfolk,
Mr. G. joined the volunteer rifle company of Capt.
George W. Humphrey's, and served a month. In the
course of this service the company had part in the sharp
conflict at the White House Bluff, on the Potomac, in
which Com. Porter undertook, with a few small field
pieces and some riflemen, to stop the British vessels then
descending the river, ladened with flour and other stores
captured at Alexandria. On the conclusion of his mili
tary service, Mr.. G. worked about a year in the office of
the National Intelligencer, the model newspaper con
ducted by those well known gentlemen, Messrs. Gales
and Seaton.

Historical Pen SketcJies. 117
In May, 1821, Mr. Gallaher, with his younger brother,
Robert, (who died in August following, after only four
days' sickness, of a malignant fever then prevailing,)
commenced the publication of the Harper' s Ferry i?Vse
Press, now the Virginia Free Press — a paper which ac
quired great popularity. Mr. G. also published for four
years, a literary paper called The Ladies'' Garland.
In 1827 he purchased the Farmef s Repository, at
Charlestown, and merged it with the Free Press, now
published by his brother, H. N. Gallaher, and his nephew,
W. W. B. Gallaher.
In the spring of 1830, Mr. Gallaher was elected a mem
ber of the Virginia House of Delegates, Avith the veteran
Daniel Morgan as his colleague. The amended Consti
tution of 1829 being adopted, this election of delegates
was set aside, and in October, 1880, John S. Gallaher and
Edward Lucas were chosen. In this first session under
the new Constitution, much of the legal talent of the Old
Commonwealth was in requisition, and it was deemed no
light honor to be a colleague of such men as Benjamin
Watkins Leigh, Richard Morris, Thomas Marshall, Jas.
M. Mason, James McDowell, etc.
Mr. Gallaher was re-elected for four successive terms,
Avith slight opposition, except in 1833, when, having
given a "State's Right's Vote" (in the nullification era),
which displeased some of his ultra Whig supporters, a
spirited canvass ensued, but he was re-elected by an
increased majority. In the spring of 1835 he declined
further legislative service, and removed to Richmond to
take chief management of the RlcJimond Compiler,
which he held for nineteen months.
At the close of his term, the eldet Governor Floyd, in
1832, appointed Charles James Faulkner, of Berkeley,
John S. Gallaher, of Jefferson, and John B. D. Smith, of
Frederick, Commissioners to settle, in conjunction with a
like number from Maryland, the boundary line between
the two States, but Maryland did not appoint Commis-

118 Historical Pen SketcJies.
sioners, and nothing was done. Mr. Faulkner has since
had the matter in charge under a new appointment, and
has made much progress in the collection of interesting
data. In January, 1837, Mr. Gallaher purchased a third in
terest in the Richmond Whig, and for three years was
associated with those eminent journalists, John Hamp
den Pleasants and Alexander Moseley. In 1840 he sold
his interest in the Whig to his partners, and published
for nine months a popular campaign paper — the Yoeman,
in support of Harrison and Tyler. In the contest of
that year the AVhigs came within 1,400 votes of carrying
the State.
In the autumn of 1841 Mr. Gallaher returned to Jeffer
son, in connection with his favorite Free Press, and in
the spring of 1842 Avas again elected to the House of
Delegates, and served two sessions. In 1844 he was
nominated for the Senate by a Whig convention, and was
elected in the then Democratic district of Jefferson, Fred
erick and Clarke, by a majority of 62 votes, in opposi
tion to John Bruce, a gentleman of ability and scholarly
attainments — his laredecessor, Robert Y. Conrad, an
eminent lawyer, having declined a re-election. This dis
trict, the same year, gave Mr. Polk a majority of one in
the Presidential election.
In connection with Mr. Gallaher' s career as a State
Senator, it may not be out of place to mention, that near
the close of President Tyler's term, in a conversation on
the subject of the annexation of Texas, so confident was
the President of the success of that measure, and of the
consequent Avar with Mexico, that he offered Mr. G. a
command in the army. This compliment was respect
fully declined, for tAvo reasons ; first, that his term of
civil service had not expired, and secondly, that his
military aspirations had been satisfied with the command
of a well- drilled company of rifiemen at Hai-per' s Ferry.
In 1848 Mr. Gallaher was again nominated for the Sen-

Historical Pen SketcJies. 119
ate, and after an active canvass, was defeated by a
majority of 22 votes, the principal opposition to him
being on account of a school bill for the County of Jef
ferson, matured by him and carried through both Houses.
Jefferson County having an area about 25 miles square,
is particularly well adapted to an experiment with free
schools ; and the system, by the aid of the remakable
John Yates, a wealthy land holder, and the largest tax
payer in the county, was successfully put into active
operation, and resisted several attempts to repeal the
act. Mr. Gallaher, in his retirement, had the proud sat
isfaction of seeing 27 schools, free for the poor, firmly
established and successful until broken up by the disas
trous four years' war, which also destroyed the labors of
forty years of his life.
On the 22nd of October 1849, Mr. Gallaher Avas ap
pointed by President Taylor to succeed that eminent ac
countant Peter Hagner, as Third Auditor of the Treasury,
who had held the position from its creation in 1817, a
period of 32 years. Declining health was the cause of
Mr. Hagner' s retirement.
Mr. Gallaher served as Auditor through President
Taylor and Fillmore's terms, and was removed in April
1858, by President Pierce, to make room for Francis
Burt, of South Carolina, a personal friend of Jefferson
Davis, then Secretary of War. This change was made
in opposition to the wishes of many prominent Demo
cratic members of Congress, Avho were satisfied with the
incumbent, and strongly protested against his removal.
Being prevented by the exigencies of the war from re
turning to Virginia, as he desired to do, Mr. Gallaher,
accepted a position in the office of the Quartermaster
General, at Washington, which position he continued to
hold until a few months before his death, Avhen age and
disease rendered him unable to discharge its duties.
He died at his residence in the city of Washington on
the 4th of February 1877, and his remains Avere conveyed

120 Historical Pen SketcJies.
to the Presbyterian church in Charlestown and interred
ifi Edge Hill cemetery, in sight of his beloved hills, and
beneath the soil of his native State.
No one took a livelier interest in the "Berkeley Cen- '
tennial Celebration" than Mr. Gallaher. It seemed to
touch the innermost chords of his heart, and to wake up,
in vivid coloring, all the reminiscences of his early life.
He anxiously desired to be present at the ceremonies of
the day, but circumstances put it out of his power. For
a few Aveeks preceeding the celebration scarcely a day
passed that the Chairman of the Committee on Corres
pondence did not receive some communication from him
— referring in that kind and genial spirit, so character
istic of the man— to those old citizens of the county,
whom he had known, loved and respected in his younger
days. It is due to him and cannot fail to interest our
readers to make some extracts from this correspondence.
Washington, D. C, June 13, 1872.
Hon. C. J. FaulJcner, CJiairman, Martinsburg, W. Va.:
Hear Sir : I am proud of my native county and have
had frequent occasions to refer to her honored history.
It Avould be egotistical' in me to recount the ordinary
events of my school-boy days during my attendance un
der twelve years of age in Capt. James Maxwell's old
school house, in the northeastern portion of Martinsburg,
over the site of which the locomotive now pjlles its busy
wheels. The teacher being an adept in mathematics, and
County Surveyor, had a number of grown up young men
as students. I recollect Tillitson Fryatt, Robert V.
Snodgrass, Jacob Myers, Dennis McSherry and Lawrence
Wilmer among these. Three of them I met, after a lapse
of twenty years, in the legislature of Virginia.
Among my earliest recollections of eminent public
men I may cite a discussion at the old Court House in
Martinsburg between Alfred H. Powell, Federalist, and
Henry St. George Tucker, Republican, for the position
of State Senator. It was a rich, intellectual treat to me.

Historical Pen SketcJies. 121
a discussion between two courteous and polished gentle
men, strongly impressed on my youthful memory as a
model of forensic eloquence. Both these gentlemen were
afterward eminent members of the national House of
Representat Ives .
My memory naturally carries me back to the era in
which prominent men of Berkeley were in the vigor of
life and usefulness, such as Col. Elisha Boyd, Judge
Philip C. Pendleton, Col. William Gregory, Maj. An
drew Waggoner, Maj. Jas. Faulkner, Capt. Rob't Wil
son, Capt. James Mason and others, who were in mili
tary service in the war of 1812.
Among the regular army officers of 1812 who Avent to
the northern frontier from Berkeley, I remember Capt.
Lewis B. Willis, Capt. Hiram Henshaw, Lieuts. John
Strother and David Hunter, the latter of AA'hom was
killed in Canada.
I cannot omit a reference to an early friend who kindly
stimulated my ambition Avhen struggling with adverse
fortune— I mean the late John R. Cooke, eminent at the
bar, and in the Constitutional Convention of Virginia —
a gentleman in every sense of the term, "with a heart
open to melting charity." Nor do I forget -my appren
tice days on the old Martinsburg Gazette, published by
John Alburtis, one of the most even-tempered gentlemen
I ever kneAv, and Avho, like my old teacher, Capt. Max
well, seemed ever gratified at my success.
Well do I remember the venerable Edward Beeson —
Beeson's mill, Beeson's orchard, (from which urchins
like myself, of tender years, often were supplied with
fruit) and Beeson's meadoAv, on Tuscarora Creek, upon
which an Indian tribe of that name had frequent san
guinary battles with other tribes. The tradition on this
subject is sustained by the frequent finding of arrow
heads and various implements of Indian Avarfare. Other
objects of interest abound. This recital may not be
worth the time to read it, but the very suggestion of

122 Historical Pen SketcJies.
one's birth-place awakens memories of hills and valleys,
teeming fields and gushing fountains, such as old Berke
ley is blessed with most abundantly.
It would be interesting to ascertain how many uoav
survive who trod those hills and valleys and laved In
those waters, Just one hundred years ago !
Yours truly,
John S. Gallaher.
In another letter of the following day he mentions :
"Ephraim Galther, the dignified and gentlemanly pro
prietor of the Globe Hotel ; Philip Nadenbousch, long, a
magistrate, whose sons worthily represent the name ; Col.
George Porterfield, also a popular magistrate and
the Chesterfield of the County Court; Charles D.
Stewart, for over fifty years the faithful deputy
sheriff of the county ; Rev. William Riddle, the
preacher and teacher ; Michael McKewan, Luke
Pentiney, Alexander Cooper, Thomas C. Smith, Dr.
Erasmus Stribling, Dr. J. S. Harrison, Jacob Hamme,
Geo. Doll, Geo. Wolff, Adam Young, Wm. Somerville,
the well remembered postmaster ; Conrad Roush, An
thony S. Chambers, James P. Erskine, Jacob Poisal,
John H. Blondell, W. Long, Ezekiel ShoAvers, John
Stewart, Conrad Hogmire, Daniel Burkhart, John Mat
thews—but my pen must stop ; columns would not suf
fice to make up the record of my old friends and ac
quaintances." John S. Gallaher Avas a man of strong and vigorous in
tellect, disciplined and improved to the highest point of
Avhich It Avas susceptible. His judgment Avas sound,
practical and discriminating ; his temper mild, just and
generous ; his habits those of constant and assiduous
labor. Free from his business employments he delighted
in history and Belles Letters, and his taste in literature
was refined and chaste. He was patriotic and public
spirited, and liberal In allhisA'ieAvs of national and State

Historical Pen SJtetcJies. 123
policy. He Avas a careful and correct, but not dashing
and flowing writer. He had none of the qualities of a
public speaker, yet he always had at command such a
fund of practical good sense, and was so familiar with
the recognized maxims of human life that a few short,
pithy sentences from him from the stump reached their
mark more effectually than more accomplished oratory,
and his sayings were remembered and treasured up by
his audience. He was kind, grateful, charitable and
whole-souled, and was universally esteemed for his in
tegrity and for his merits and attainments as a self-made
man. FELIX GRUNDY
Was born on Back Creek, In the County of Berkeley,
on the 11th of September, 1777. His father was a native
of England, who settled in early life in the valley of Vir
ginia. In 1780 he* removed to Kentucky. The early
childhood of Mr. Grundy was passed amid the perils and
sufferings of Indian warfare. A striking picture is given
in his own eloquent language in a speech delivered by
him in the Senate of the United States in February, 1820,
from which, however, we can only take a very short ex
tract :
" Mr. President, I Avas too young to participate in these
dangers and difficulties, but I can remember Avhen death
was in almost every bush, and every thicket concealed
an ambuscade. If I am asked to trace my memory back
and name the first indescribable impression It received it
would be the sight of my eldest brother, bleeding and
dying under the wounds Inflicted by the tomahawk and
scalping knife. Another and another Avent in the same
way. I have seen a wIdoAved mother plundered of her
whole property in one single night, and from affluence
and ease reduced to poverty In a moment, and thereby
compelled to labor AvIth her own hands to educate her
last and favorite son, who now addresses you."
He Avas educated at BardstoAvn Academy, studied laAA^,

124 Historical Pen SketcJies.
and soon became distinguished at the bar. He com-*
menced his public career at the age of twenty-two, as a
member of the convention for the revising of the consti
tution of Kentucky ; was afterward, for six or seven
years, a member of the legislature of that State. In 1805
he Avas elected one of the judges of the Supreme Court
of Kentucky, and was soon after made Chief Justice. In
1807 he removed to Nashville, Tenn., and became emi
nent as a lawyer. From 1811 to 1814 he was a represent
ative in Congress from Tennessee, and during that period
gave to the war measures of President Madison against
Great Britain such ardent support that he was familiarly
know as the "war hawk" of democracy. From 1829 to
1838 he was United States Senator, and in the latter year
was appointed by President Van Buren Attorney Gen
eral of the United States ; in 1840 he resigned this posi
tion and was again elected Senator. * He died at Nash
ville, Tenn , Dec. 19th, 1840. Whilst a member of the
Senate he made a visit to Berkeley County to examine
the spot where he had passed his early boyhood. But
he found nothing but a dilapidated stone chimney to
mark the place where had stood the cabin Avith its clap
board roof which had shielded his childhood from the
storms of winter. MICHAEL ROONEY
Was born in Ireland. His enemies contended that he
had been a Corsair in early life, bat this Avas believed to
be an Idle slander. Certain It is that he spent some years
amidst the perils of the sea, in the British service, and
he there acquired the reputation of an expert sailor and
skilful navigator. He was familiar Avith the dead lan
guages and thoroughly versed in some of the higher
branches of mathematics. He emigrated to the County
of Berkeley about forty years previous to his death, and
purchased a large body of land on Cherry Run In that
county, his dwelling-house having been built on the
Avestern side of that small stream. He Avas one of the

Historical Pen SketcJies. 125
most zealous and indefatigable magistrates of the coun
ty, and took special and peculiar pride in the discharge
of all the duties of that position. When the County of
Morgan was formed in 1820, and Cherry Run made the
dividing line between it and Berkeley, thus throwing
him into the County of Morgan, he promptly abandoned
his substantial residence in that county and erected a
new dwelling house on the Berkeley side of that run, a
few yards distant from his former residence, that he
might preserve his domicil in Berkeley and continue his
magisterial functions. His strange and peculiar features
and appearance, and his indomitable will and imperious
temper; the ardor with which he entered into the exam
ination of every case before him, and the sharpness and
point Avith which he commented upon the law and facts
as they arose in the progress of the trial, made his court
at the old Robert Snodgrass tavern, on Back Creek, a
place of great attraction and resort for the neigborhood
for many miles around. He was elected high Sheriff of
the county, and died in 18 — , leaving a will emancipating
his slaves, providing for their transportation to the colo
ny of Liberia, and appointing Chas. James Faulkner his
agent, with full power to carry his benovelent views into
effect. But a testator often intends what he cannot ac
complish. He could emancipate, but he could not trans
port without the consent of his freedmen. They received
their emancipation papers with becoming gratitude, but
they declined his generous offer to transport them across
the ocean to that fiery continent from which their ances
tors had been probably torn more than a century before.
They concluded that this country was quite good enough
for any white or black man to live in.
GEORGE PORTERFIELD
Was born in Berkeley- County in the year 1740; in
early life he was once or twice exposed to the imminent
risk of losing his life from the Indians then inhabitating
or making incursions into this county. His brother

120 Historical Pen SJietcJies
Charles, then a youth about twenty years of age, was
killed not far from his father's house by a body of In
dians who had the previous day attacked Nealy's fort,
near the Opequon, massacred the inmates and took off
several prisoners on their retreat. Mr. Porterfield was
among the most popular magistrates of the county, and
when acting as senior justice of the county court, pre
sided with unusual dignity. HeAvas Sheriff of the county,
and in 1808 and 1810 one of its representatives in the
legislature. In 1814 he Avas elected chairman of the
meeting for the organization of the Berkeley County
Bible Society. He was remarkable for the equanimity
of his temper and for his invariable courtesy, pleasant
address and politeness. He died In 1824.
MARIA COOPER.
Born in Berkeley County ; a lady of great intelligence,
brilliant conversational powers, and of great religious
fervor and piety. No person was ever more universally
loved and esteemed in this community ; and of the hun
dred and eleven estimable persons who fell victims to
the cholera pestilence in the fall of 1754, there was not
one whose death was so universally lamented. She left
a will, bequeathing a large portion of her estate to chari
table purposes. Among seven other bequests contained
in her will was one for the founding of an academy in
Martinsburg ; but this, with all the other bequests in
her Avill for charitable purposes, was declared by the Su
preme Court of Appeals of West Virginia, to be invalid
and thus, an institution which in anticipation of this
fund, and to do honor to her memory, was incorporated
as the Martinsburg Cooper Academy, perished under the
illiberal policy and stern decree of the court. She pub
lished some time before her death a small work compos
ed of original and selected matter, that gave evidence of
high literary taste, and which proved that she Avas as
graceful in composition as she Avas brilliant in conA-er-

Historical Pen SketcJies. , 127
satlon. She died in October, 1854, of an attack of the
cholera. JAMES STEPHENSON
Was born on March 20, 1764. He commanded a com
pany in the disastrous defeat of General Arthur St. Clair
in 1791, when thirty-eight officers and five hundred and
ninety-three men were slaughtered by the Miami In
dians, and twenty- one officers and two hundred and forty-
three men were badly Avounded. He Avas present at the
quelling of the whiskey insurrection in Pennsylvania,
and was promoted to the office of Brigade Inspector. He
served in 1800, 1801 and 1802 as a delegate from Berke
ley County to the Virginia Assembly, and was "a repre
sentative in Congress from this district from 1803 to 1805,
from 1809 to 1811, and again from 1822 to 1825. He
raised a large and interesting family of children, boys
and girls, and lived In the house uoav owned and occu
pied by D. H. Conrad. He died in August, 1838. An
anecdote is told of an arranged duel between Major
Stephenson and General Darke, both men of tried and
approved courage. They Avere to fight with swords.
Stepenson, who was a small man, came to the ground
armed with a rapier. Darke, a man of gigantic propor
tions, brought with him a broad sword, as large as an
ordinary mowing scythe. When the seconds were about
to place them in position for the combat the disparity
of size of both the men and of their weapons was so Irre-
sistalaly ludicrous that the seconds burst into an uncon-
trolable fit of laughter, which soon communicated its
effect to the principals ; the duel was averted, all points
of honor settled and the two brave old soldiers shook
hands and continued Avarm friends the rest of their lives.
JOHN MILLER
Was born on the Tuscorora Creek in Berkeley county.
He was distinguished for his courage as an officer In the
last war with Great Britain ; soon after the struggle he
was appointed Register of the Land Office, in Missouri ;

128 Historical Pen Sketches.
subsequently elected Governor of the State, and was a
Representative In Congress from 1837 to 1843. Died near
Florissant, Missouri, March 13, 1846.
WILLIAM CREIGHTON,
Born in Berkeley county, Virginia, October 29, 1778 ;
graduated at Dickenson College when quite young ;
studied law and was admitted to the bar at the age of
twenty ; in 1798 he settled in Chillicothe, Ohio, devoted
himself to his profession, and holding many positions of
public trust. He was the first Secretary of State, for
Ohio ; and was a Delegate in Congress from 1813 to 1817,
and again from 1827 to 1833. Died at Chillicothe, October
8, 1851, having for many years previously declined all
public office. JOHN KERNEY
Was born in Berkeley county. The following extract
is taken from an original certificate executed on the 17th
of June, 1791, by William Darke, late Lieutenant Colonel
commanding in Virginia Line, now in the possession of
the writer of this sketch :
"I was, and am well acquainted with Captain John
Kerney, of the county of Berkeley, Virginia ; he en
gaged in the American service as first Sergeant to a com
pany in July, 1775, in Col. Hugh Stevenson's regiment of
infantry ; he was taken prisoner at Fort Washington,
suffered a long and painful imprisonment after which he
continued in the American army and behaved as a brave
and distinguished soldier, ' til he was appointed a lieu
tenant in a State Regiment, commanded by Col. Joseph
Crockett, after which he succeeded to the command of a
company in said regiment, and served until it was dis
banded, which was not until the end of the war. During
his whole service, he merited the esteem of his superior
officers, and of his country."
Subsequent to the war, he returned to the county of
Berkeley, held the position of a justice of the peace and

Historical Pen SketcJies. 129
member of the County Court, until about the year 1805
he emigrated to Kentucky, Avhere he died.
NATHANIEL WILLIS
Was born in Boston, June 1780. When tAventy-one
years of age he established the first newspaper in Mar
tinsburg, which was called the Berkeley Intelligencer.
He continued to edit that paper until 1803, when he sold
out to John Alburtis, left Martinsburg, removed to Port
land, Maine, where he established the Eastern Argus.
He was an active journalist for many years. He finally
moved to Boston and died there May 26, 1870, nearly
ninety years of age. It has been supposed by some that
his distinguished son, N. P. Willis, the poet and jour
nalist, was born whilst his father resided in Martinsburg,
but this is an error. N. P. Willis was born in Portland,
Maine, Jan. 20, 1806. WILLIA.M ALBURTIS
Was born in Martinsburg, and commissioned 2nd
Lieutenant of infantry in the regular army of the United
States on the 8th of March, 1827 ; promoted to the rank
of first Lieutenant in July 1839 ; commanded in sortie
from Fort Brooks, Orange Creek, March 2nd, 1841,
against the Seminoles ; was breveted as captain in
August 1842, "for gallantry and good conduct in Avar
against the Florida Indians ;" was killed 11th of March,
1847, by a cannon shot at the siege of Vera Cruz.
JAIVIES R. STEPHENSON,
Son of Major James Stephenson, born in Martinsburg ;
entered the military academy at West Point in 1818 ;
graduated with great distinction, and commissioned sec
ond Lieutenant of infantry in July 1822 ; promated to a
first lieutenancy October 1825 ; commissioned a captain,
December 1834. Died 26th of November, 1841, at Pilat-
lea, Florada. MAJOR ANDREW WAGGONER, JR.,
Son of Major Andrew Waggoner, of Revolutionary

130 Historical Pen SJietcJies.
memory, Avas born near Bunker Hill, in the County of
Berkeley, on the 24th of October, 1779. I have no Infor
mation of his occupations and employments in early life.
He was elected a member of the House of Delegates from
this county, 1811. When war AA'as declared in June 1812,
by the United States against Great Britain, all the heroic
qualities of his nature, and which he had so largely in
herited from his gallant father, promptly developed them:
¦ selves. He first volunteered as a private, soon was pro-
¦ moted to a captaincy, and then commissioned as a major
of infantry. He was on Craney Island, In command of a
Vbattallon of the 4th Reg. of Va. Infantry, when the at-
>tack upon that Island was made by a combined military
¦and naval British force, on the 22nd of June 1818, and
¦although from the successful operations of the Artillery
in repelling the attack, both by land and Aviter, the in
fantry was not called Into action, yet, all were impress
ed with the daring courage, and animated by the noble
patriotism which he displayed on that occasion. He had
to an extraordinary degree, the confidence of those under
his command. Popular In his manners — frank and man
ly in his bearing — decisive in his movemens — with a face
beaming with intrepidity and devotion to his country,
he was the idol of the soldiery. No one doubted, had
the enemy reached the Island, how gallantly he Avould
have borne himself amidst the storm of battle.
After the war he removed from the County of Berke
ley, to the vicinity of Point Pleasant, in Mason County,
Virginia, to take possession of some valuable land on the
Ohio River, in that county, which had been granted to
his father in consideration of his Revolutionary service.
He was elected a member of the House of Delegates of
Virginia, from the County of Mason in 1836. He soon
became as great a favorite among the members of the
Legislature, as he had been among the soldiers. All
local measures for the benefit of his constituents were
carried without opposition and almost by acclamation.

Historical Pen SketcJies. 131
It being understood that he was on Craney Island, during
that battle, a resolution Avas introduced into the body,
without his knowledge, to vote him some signal honor
for his assumed services in that conflict. But he prompt
ly put a stop to the intended complimentby saying : "It
is true I was on that Island during the attack ; but my
command Avas not called into action. The artillery did
the work, and I cannot be the instrument of robbing
Major Faulkner who had supreme command of the ar
tillery, of the honor and merit which belong to him."
After this frank and manly declaration, all further pro
ceedings in his honor, were dropped.
His estate was contiguous to Point Pleasant, the county
seat of Mason, and he was almost a daily visitor of that
interesting and old fashioned Virginia town. No man
in the county was more generally loved and respected,
and none whose sudden death was more universally la
mented. He Avas killed on the 30th of March 1863, by a
Are from a detachment of Federal soldiers, stationed in
that neighborhood, as he was passing from the town to
his farm. His son, Charles B. Waggoner, was a member
of the recent Constitutional Convention of this State,
and now holds an important office in the county.
CHARLES ROBERTS
Was chiefly remarkable for his longevity. He Avas a
native of Oxfordshire, in England, but had resided In
this county about eighty years. He died in Berkeley
County, Feb. 17th, 1796, aged 116. During his life, he
never knew sickness.
CAPT. NAPOLEON B. HARRISON, U. S. N.,
Youngest son of Dr. John S. Harrison and Holland
Williams Stull, was born in Martinsburg, Va., February
19th, 1823. Entering the naval service of the United
States as Midshipman February 28th, 1838, he acquired
experience in his profession under various commanders
in the West Indies, Brazil, the Coast of Africa and the
Pacific Squadron. In 1844 he was promoted to the rank

132 Historical Pen SketcJies.
of Passed Midshipman, and under Commodore Stockton,
during the Mexican Avar, he was distinguished among
the younger officers for courage and ability. He here
took part in the land expedition which rescued General
Kearney's command from a desperate position and on
another occasion, having volunteered to carry an impor
tant message to a distant command in an open boat, he
was carried out to sea and unable to make land for five
or six days. The violence and persistence of the storm
was matched by the firmness and skill of the young sailor,
who finally brought back his boat and crew unharmed.
In 1850 he was on duty at then Washington Observa
tory and in the year 1853 promoted to a lieutenancy and
served as naval store keeper in the East Indies, Japan
and on the coast of Africa.
In 1862 Lieut. Harrison was jjlaced in command of the
gun boat "Cayuga," attached to the Mississippi Squad
ron under Com. Farragut. In his dispositions for for
cing the passage of the river, the Commodore arranged
his fleet in three divisions, and in this programme, the
Cayuga being a light armed vessel of only seven guns,
stood last in the first division.
This undistinguished position was a source of great
mortification to her gallant commander, who, neverthe
less prepared to do his duty with patriotic resignation.
In the meantime Capt. S. P. Lee, who had volunteered
to lead the attack, objected to Capt. Bailey making the
"Oneida" his flagship, fearing that the presence of the
Diyision Commander would obscure his own position.
Bally promptly ordered the Oneida to the rear of his
division, and proposed to Lieutenant Harrison, to make
the "Cayuga" his flagship.
This unexpected transfer to the van of battle and post
of danger was hailed with great delight. Just before day
break on the 28d of April, 1862, Lieut. Harrison led the
advance of the national fleet. Passing Forts Jackson
and St. Philip, with their hundred blazing guns, the

Historical Pen SketcJies. 183
"Cayuga" rushed Into the midst of the enemy's fleet of
iron-clads, rams and fire ships above the forts, and there
sustained herself for half an hour unsupported.
During this brief and unequal fight, she repelled all
attacks and destroyed three vessels of the adverse flotil
la, and when relieved by the advance of the national ves
sels, she passed up the river with forty shot holes in her
hull and rigging, and only six men wounded. She next
covered the encampment of the Chalmette Regiment
with her guns, and forced it surrender, with six thous
and men. Next day, alone, she attacked the Chalmette
Batteries, and persisted tmtil the Hartford tfame up and
the Batteries surrendered.
Captain Bailey, in his official report says : ' 'From
first to last, Lleutanant Commander Harrison showed a
masterly ability in steering his vessel i)ast the Forts
under a hurricane of shot and shell, and, afterwards, in
maneuvering and fighting her among the gun-boats, I
cannot say too much of him."
The chivalric courage and intelligent coolness exhibi
ted by Commander Harrison in this tremendous engage
ment, impressed all who were near him, and won for
him the respect and admiration of the whole service.
The following characteristic anecdote is currrent among
his brother officers : During the hottest fire he found a
gunner skulking ; seizing the recreant by the collar, and
dragging him before Captain Bailey, he said, "Captain,
here's a fellow skulking ; shall I shoot him or boot him?"
The commander recommended the lighter punishment
and the man was expedited back to his post with a vig
orous kick. The remedy was efficacious and the man
stuck to his gun af terAA-ard doing good service.
In recognition of his conduct in this engagement, Lieu
tenant Harrison was advanced to the rank of Commander,
his commission bearing date July 15th, 1862. <
He was soon after ordered to the "Mahaska," of the

134 Historical Pen Sketches.
James River fleet, and rendered efficient service during
McClellan's operations at Harrison' s Landing.
Late in the same year, in command of the flagship
"Minnesota, he was Avith the North Atlantic Squadron,
and took an active part in the naval operations on the
coast of South Carolina, terminating in the evacuation
of Charleston.
After the peace Commander Harrison had charge of
the navy yard at Portsmouth, New Hampshire, where
he remained until 1868. On the 28th of April, this year
he was commissioned Captain, and soon after ordered to
duty at the Annapolis Navy School as Commandant of
Midshipmen. From here, one year later, he was order
ed to the command of the "Congress," flagship of the
North Atlantic Squadron. While at Key West the
"Congress" encountered a terrible norther, and in his
solicitude for the safety of the vessel, Captain Harrison
so exposed himself to the storm that he died two days
after. His remains are buried in Oak Hill Cemetery, George
town, D. C, and he leaves behind him the reputation of
a gallant, able and faithful officer and an honorable,
amiable and agreeable gentleman.
LEWIS P. W. BALCH,
The first Judge appointed for the Berkeley circuit after
the close of our late civil war. He was far advanced in
life Avhen elevated to the bench, but preserved much of
the vigor and eccentricity of his mind. He was eminent
ly fitted to perform the duties expected of him at that
sad period of our history. He was a slave to popular
prejudice, intolerent in his opinions and overbearing In
his conduct. He was Inordinately vain of his judicial
position, and brought his authority to bear on the unfor
tunate rebels, if not with the bloodthirstlness, certainly
with all the buffoonery and vindictiveness of a Jeffrey.
The character of his judicial administration may be in
ferred from the folloAving extract from ohe of his opin-

Historical Pen SJietcJies. 135
ions : ' 'Common fame is prima facie ground for putting
a person on trial for an offense. It is the duty of a mag
istrate to arrest on such evidence, and the onus proban-
di of innocence is on the accused." There was much
freshness and originality in the character of his mind,
while his heavy and grotesque figure, his bombastic and
theatrical airs upon the bench, with the quaint and char
acteristic opinions to which he gave utterance, offorded
a rich fund of entertainment to the usually crowded
court room. A keen sense of the ludicrous was irresista-
bly inspired by his appearance. He presided on this
circuit from March 1865 to March 1866 ; but even his
own party could tolerate him no longer. An accurate
sketch of his personal appearance, has been preserved
by one of our best native artists, and as we have rarely
had such a specimen of judicial eccentricity, if not
monstrosity, in this section of the country, he may be
regarded as the natural outgrowth of the diseased and
disjointed period in which he officially flourished ; it is
hoped, that the picture may be engraved and perpetua
ted, as a reminiscence of times never to be seen again.
He died at his residence near Leetown, in the County
of Jefferson, in 1868. REV. WM. HILL, D. D.
Was born in Virginia on the 3rd of March, 1709. In
1785, he entered Hampden Sidney College. He gradua
ted at that college in 1788, and was licensed to preach
the gospel by the Presbytery of Hanover, July 10th, 1790.
Immediately after his license, he settled in Berkeley
County. His stated field of labor Avas missionary ground,
and though his labors here were prosecuted through
many discouragements, they were marked by great vigor
and boldness, and Avere followed by highly important
results. He had already acquired a high reputation as a
commanding and effective pulpit orator. In January
1800 he left his residence In Berkeley County, and took
charge of the Presbyterian Church in Winchester. In

186 Historical Pen SketcJies.
1816 the degree of Doctor of Divinity Avas conferredupon
him by Dartmouth University. He died on the 10th of
November 1852, in Winchester, in the 84th year of his
age. His funeral sermon Avas preached by the Rev. A. H.
H. Boyd, D. D.
His power as an extemporaneous preacher AA'as very re
markable. He had not the learning and the close logical
reasoning of Rice, nor the chaste and flowing style of
Speece, nor the splendid imagination of Kirkpatrick ;
but there was a combination of excellencies in his preach
ing which made him a great favorite. His commanding
person, his clear and powerful voice, the vividness of his
conceptions, the distinctness and pungency of his ap
peals, and the deep earnestness visible in his counte
nance and manner of delivery, impressed his audience
with the conviction that vA-hat he said Avas truth, and
such truth as involved their most vital interest.
THOIVIAS WORTHINGTON
Was born in the County of Berkeley in 1796 ; emigra
ted to Ohio, and settled In Ross County in 1798. In 1808
he was a member of the State Constitutional Convention.
He Avas a Senator in Congress, from Ohio, from 1803 to
1807, and again from 1810 to 1814, when he resigned ; and
from 1814 to 1817 he AA'as Governor of Ohio. After his
retirement from that office, he was appointed a member
of the first Board of Canal Commissioners in which
capacity he served until his death, which occurred 1827.
THO.MAS VAN SWEARINGEN
Was born in Berkeley County, Virginia, and elected
a representative in Congress from 1819 to 1821. He died
in 1823 from a fatal bilious fever, AvhIch carried off the
most prominent citizens of Shepherdstown.
WILLIAM MACKEY
AVas born near Belfast in the north of Ireland in 1738.
He emigrated to this country about 1762, landing at

Historical Pen SJietcJies. 137
Philadelphia, and thence removing to the Cumberland
Valley, Pa. He volunteered in the Revolutionary army
in the beginning of the war, Avas promptly commissioned
as captain, and continued in service until its close. At
the battle of Brandywine, he fell, severely wounded,
charging at the head of his company.
The battle of Brandywine (so called from the small
creek near which it occurred) was fought on the 11th of
September, 1777, and was one of the most interesting of
the early conflicts of the Revolution. It grew out of the
determination of General Washington to save, if possi
ble, from capture, the city of Philadelphia, then the
capital of the States, and the seat of the Continental
Congress. If the magnitud« of the prize at stake, the
number of the troops engaged and the character of the
military leaders on both sides, could give dignity to any
battle, this possessed those elements in an eminent de
gree. General Sir Wm. Howe, aided by Lord Cornwallis
and Gen. Knyphausen, had landed from the British fleet
a well disciplined and admirably equipped army of 18,000
men — looking to the capture of Philadelphia. General
Washington, assisted In his command by Gens. Green,
Wayne, Muhlenburg, Sullivan. Stephens andMaxvvell,
with an inferior force of 13,000 poorly equipped men,
was equally determined to save the city. The hostile
armies met near the Brandywine Creek. The battle Avas
fierce and bloody. On our side there Avas a loss of 1,000
killed and wounded. On the side of the British but
546 killed ahd wounded, this disparity of loss resulting
from the superior arms and equipments of the enemy.
Among the Avounded was the Marquis de Lafayette.
Our army was defeated, Philadelphia fell into the hands
of the enemy. Washington made a masterly retreat and
few prisoners were taken— none but those Avho Avere left
severely wounded on the field of battle. Among those
was Capt. Wm. Mackey. After several months Impris
onment, he A\-as exchanged, when he joined his regiment.

138 Historical Pen Sketches.
still suffering from his Avounds, and continued in service
until hostilities ceased.
Shortly after the close of the war he removed to Mar
tinsburg, where he continued to reside until his death.
He had two children, William Mackey, and Sarah, mar
ried to James Faulkner. His residence was in the house
directly opposite the Episcopal Church in Martinsburg.
After the termination of the Revolutionary war, being
entitled by his service and position to be a member of
the Society of the Cincinatti, composed exclusively of the
officers of that army, who had served until the end of
the Avar, he received his diploma as such, which bears
the honored signatures of George Washington, as
President and General Henry Knox, as Secretary and
which may be seen gracing the walls of Chas. James
Faulkner, bis grandson, at Boydville.
As there may not be any future occasion to refer to
this Society of the Cincinnatti, an institution which has
excited so much attention and even hostile discussion in
this country, a brief reference to it may not be uninter
esting. It Avas an association founded by the officers of the
American Revolutionary Army, after the peace of 1783.
Its object was to commemorate the success of the Revo
lution and to perpetuate sentiments of patriotism, be
nevolence and brotherly love, and the memory of hard
ships experienced in common. The original draft of the
Constitution was made by General Knox and it is still
extant. At the second general meeting of the Society in
1787, V/ashington Avas elected President General, and
Avas re-elected tiienially during his life. He Avas suc
ceeded by Hamilton and the Pinckneys, and the Society
Avas in all its vigor during the last visit of Gen. Lefayette
to the United States, In 1824-5, Avho Avas then its only
surviving Major General. It has branches in several of
the States, but the general Society meets trienlally in
New York, of Avhich Hamilton Fish is at this time the

Historical Pen SJietcJies. 139
President. It admits of honorary membership, among
Avhom are to be found the names of Benj. Franklin,
Andrew Jackson, Winfield Scott, Z. Taylor, U. S. Grant,
etc. The oldest male decendant of any officer of the
Revolution is entitled to regular membership.
William Mackey died in Martinsburg in 1812, and was
buried with military honors. His wife preceded him to
the grave a few years, she having died on the 23 of Oct.
1810. His will bears date the 28th of April, 1812, and is.
recorded in the Clerk's office of the County Court of
Berkeley. By it, he devises his property generally to
his grandson, J. H. Mackey, and his military lands in
Ohio, to which he became entitled by virtue of his Revo
lutionary services, to his grandson, Charles James
Faulkner. The Martinsburg Gazette, of Friday, the 23rd of Oc
tober, 1812, contains the following notice of his death :
"The deceased was born in Ireland, though no native
son of America was ever more attached to the institutions.
of this country. He was one of the few surviving heroes
of the Revolution that gave independence to the coun
try. He entered the contest soon after the commence
ment of hostilities, and continued his useful services in
the arduous struggle until our liberty Avas established.
No one of equal grade rendered greater service to the
country, and but few suffered as much. Blest with a
strong constitution and filled with that ardor and enthu
siasm, so natural to his countrymen, his zeal Avas uncon
querable. At the memorable battle of BrandyAvine he
had the command of a company, posted in one of the
most important and dangerous situations ; this pOst was
supported by Capt. Mackey and his brave company, un
til every individual in it, except himself and one of his
subordinates Avere killed. In this dreadful conflict Capt.
Mackey was shot through the breast and made a prisoner.
He was soon after exchanged, but a considerable time
elapsed before the severity of his wound enabled him

140 Historical Pen SJietcJies.
again to join the army. He was engaged iu many other
severe trials in which he was always distinguished for
his determined courage and usefulness."
COL. AVILLIAM CRAWFORD.
Was born in Berkeley County. During the French
war he distinguished himself by his bravery and good
conduct, and was much noticed by Gen. Washington,
who obtained for him an ensign's commission. He was
a captain in Forbs' expedition in 1758. He was half
brother to Col. Hugh Stephenson, of Berkeley county,
who commanded a rifle regiment in 1776. At the com
mencement of the revolution, he raised a regiment by his
OAvn exertions, and held the commission of Colonel in
the Continental Army. He was one of the bravest men
on the frontier, and often took the lead in parties against
the Indians, across the Ohio. In 1782, he accepted the
command of an expedition to ravage the Wyandott and
Moravian Indian toAvns on the Muskingum. On this ex
pedition he was taken prisoner and jxit to death by the
most excruciating tortures'.
Dr. McKnight, a fellow prisoner, Avho subsequently
made his escape, and who was an eye witness of the
scene, thus describes the death of the brave Col. Craw
ford : "He was stripped naked, severely beaten with
clubs and sticks, and made to sit down near a post which
had been planted for the purpose, and around which a
fire of poles Avas burning briskly. His hands were then
pinnioned behind him, and a rope attached to the band
around his AA-rist and fastened to the foot of a post about
fifteen feet high, alloAvIng him liberty only to sit down
or walk once or twice around It, and return the same
Avay. His ears Avere I hen cut off, and AA'hile the men
would apx)ly the burning ends of the poles to his flesh,
the squaws threw coals and hot embers upon him. For
three hours he endured these excruciating agonies with
the utmost fortitude. When faint and exhausted, he
commended his soul to God, and laid doAvn on his face.

Historical Pen SJietcJies. 141
He was then scalped and burning coals being laid on his
head and back by one of the squaws, he again rose and
attempted to walk, but strength failed him, and he sank
into the welcome arms of death. His body was thrown
into the fire and consumed into ashes."
COL. HUGH STEPHENSON,
Of the Revolutionary Army, born in Berkeley county.
In June 1775, under a resolution of Congress, he raised
a company of volunteers in Berkeley county to serve one
year in the Continental Army. William Henshaw, Geo.
Scott and Thomas Hite were elected Lieutenants of this
company. Among the ijrivates were Robert White, after
wards Judge of the General Court of Virginia ; Joseph
Swearingen, Gen. Samuel Findlay, Maj. Henry Bedinger,
Maj. Michael Bedinger, Abraham Shepherd and Nathan
iel Pendleton, Esq., of New York. A few days previous
to the departure of this company for Boston, Lieut. Hite
resigned his commission and Abraham Shepherd was
elected Lieutenant in his place, by the unanimous vote
of the company. The company marched to Boston in
July, 1775. Before the expiration of its term of service
General Washington recommended to Congress the rais
ing of a rifle regiment, which was accordingly organized
by the appointment of Hugh Stephenson as colonel,
Rawlings as lieutenant colonel. Otho H. Williams was
the senior captain of the regiment. In August, 1776,
Col. Stephenson died and was succeeded in the command
of the regiment by Col. Rawlings. Stephenson's will,
now on record in the County Court of Berkeley, bears
date the 20th of July, 1775, to Avhich there is a codicil
annexed, bearing date the 3rd of March, 1776, and ex
ecuted at "Roxbury Camp, New England." The will
was presented for probate on the 20th of November, 1776.
Among the executors appointed by the will is the name
of his half brother, Col. Wm. Crawford — the bravest of
Indian fighters, whose sad and excruclatlngdeath is men
tioned in another part of these sketches.

142 Historical Pen SketcJies.
REV. MQSES HOGE, D. D.
Born in Virginia, February 15, 1752 ; in 1787 moved to
the county of Berkeley. He resided in this county for
upwards of thirteen years, and acquired great popularity
as a minister throughout this section of the State. In
1801, in consequence of the failing health of Mrs.
Hoge, he left the county of Berkeley for a more southern
climate. In 1807, he was appointed President of Hamp
den Sidney College. In 1810, as a testimonial of his
great learning and eminence as a minister, the degree of
Doctor of Divinity was conferred upon him by the col
lege of New Jersey. He possessed a mind of uncom
mon vigor, caj)able at once of accurate discrimination
and profound research, and richly stored with scientific
knowledge. He died on the 5th of July, 1820, in the
69th year of his age. JOHN MORE
Was born in Berkeley county in 1788. He was a Rep
resentative In Congress from the State of Louisiana from
1841 to 1843, and again from 1851 to 1853. Died in
June, 1861. JOHN FRYATT SNODGRASS.
Born in Berkeley county, Virginia, March 2, 1804 ; was
a lawyer by profession, and practiced in Parkersburg,
Virginia. He was a member of the Virginia Constitu
tional Convention, assembled at Richmond in 1850, and
was a representative inCongress from 1853 until his death,
which occurred Avhile trying a case in Court in Parkers
burg, June 5th, 1854. A sketch of his private, professional
and political character may be seen in the Congressional
Globe of the 9th of June, 1854, made by Hon. C. J. Faulk
ner, then a member of the House of Representatives in
announcing his death to that body.
ALMON SORTWELL,
For many years principal of the Martinsburg Academy.
He was a native of one of the Ncav England States, but

Historical Pen SketcJies. 143
possessed but feAv of the characteristics of that steady
and cool headed people. Striking and intellectual in his
physiognomy, he labored under the same deformity in
one of his feet that tortured the soul of Lord Byron dur
ing his life. In many respects the temper and character
of the two men were not unlike. Fiery and intractable
in his temper, constantly laboring under the suspicion
that his club foot was an object of observation, his ex
treme sensitiveness especially in society, generated the
most painful feelings in those around him. And yet,
when he could forget his deformity, he was replete with
wit, vivacity and good humor. He Avas a profound
scholar, and did ample justice to the youths whose edu
cation was entrusted to him. He died in 1834.
JOHN STROTHER,
A son of Benjamin Strother, was born at Park Forest,
in Berkeley county, November the 18th, 1792. At thir
teen years of age he was placed in the county clerk's
office at Martinsburg, and became an inmate, of the family
of David Hunter, then clerk of Berkeley county. When
war was declared against Great Britain, in 1812, he vol
unteered for the defence of Norfolk, as second lieuten
ant in Capt. Faulkner's artillery company, but having in
the meantime applied for a commission in the regular
army, he received a notification of his appointment to a
lieutenancy in the 12th infantry, in camp near Fredericks
burg. He thereupon resigned his commission in the
State company, was succeeded by Edward Colston, join
ed his regiment on the Canada frontier, was engaged
under Wilkinson in the unsuccessful enterprise against
Montreal ; participated in the famous passage of the Long
saut of the St. Lawrence, and was in the command of his
company at the battle of Crisler's Field, where out of
twenty-four men present for duty, the company lost eight
killed and wounded. For good conduct in the battle, he
was promoted, and afterwards appointed adjutant of the
regiment. After the war, he returned to Martinsburg,

144 Historical Pen SJietcJies
and on the Sth of September, 1815, was married to Eliza
beth Pendleton, eldest daughter of David Pendleton. In
1829 he Avas elected clerk of the County Court of Berke
ley made vacant by the death of David Hunter, and held
that office until 1833, Avhen a change In the constitution
of Virginia making a new election necessary, he was
superseded by Harrison Walte, Esq. In 1832 he was ap
pointed by Judge Richard Packer to the Clerkship of the
Supreme Court of law and chancery for the county of
Berkeley, and continued in that office until by another
change in the Constitution it became elective by the peo
ple, Avhen he declined competing for the office, and re
tired from its duties after having been connected with
the Berkeley clerkship for forty-five years. Constrained
by the limited income of his office, and by ill-health,
brought on by the close confinement to his clerical duties,
he had some years previously, in 1833, opened a board
ing house at Berkeley Springs, and latterly, between
1845 and 1848, erected a large hotel at that place. The
remainder of his business life was devoted to that enter
prise. In the recent troubles which agitated the country,
he was a firm and intrepid champion of the rights of the
Union, and asserted his opinion with a courage that com
manded the respect of both friends and enemies. He
died at the Berkeley Springs on the 16th of January,
1862, in the midst of his family, his last words express
ing solicitude for his beloved country, and his absent son,
then serving in the Federal army. His remains were
carried to Martinsburg, Avhere they were interred with
masonic and military honors.
JOHN S. HARRISON
Was one of the most highly educated and accomplish
ed physicians that up to that day had sought a home in
Berkeley county. Descended from one of the most re
spected of the old families of Maryland, he was born on
West river, Anne Arundel county in 1790. At the age of
thirteen, he was sent to St. John's College, in Annapolis,

Historical Pen SketcJies. 145
and there spent six years in completing his elementary,
classical and scientific studies. At the age of twenty he
was sent to Europe, where he spent four years in the
medical and surgical instructions of France and England,
preparing himself for the practice of his profession. In
1805 he was married to Holland Williams Stull, the niece
of that distinguished patriot and hero Of the Revolution,
General Otho Holland AVilliams, after whom she was.
named. In 1806 he removed with his young bride to-
Martinsburg, which he sought as a permanent home, pur
chasing as a residence the property at the northwest cor--
ner of King and German streets, which he occupied dur
ing his life.
His pleasant and social manners, frank and m"anly de
portment, with the general recognition of his high
attainments in his profession soon introduced him to a
profitable practice ; and as there were no physicians at
that time in the county, beyond the limits of Martins
burg, his practice was soon co- extensive with the county.
His patients had unbounded confidence in his skill and
judgment and his opinion upon all medical questions
soon came to be regarded as oracular.
He was a man of ardent temperament and gave expres
sion to his views on all subjects with frankness and de
cision. He was a Jeffersonian Democrat, and regarded
as one of the acknowledged leaders and representatives
of that minority party in this county.
At that day what were called the "Federalists" had
complete control of the county. Most of its then leading
and influential families adhered zealously to the princi
ples of that party, such as the Pendletons, Hunters,
Colstons, Waggoners, Porterfields, Orricks, Newkirks,
Shearers, Snodgrasses, Campbells, Vanmetres, Gorrells,
Burns, Boyds, Tabbs, Stephensons, Wevers, Tates, &c.
There was much exclusiveness in the distribution of pat
ronage, and it rarely happened that one of the opposite
10

146 Historical Pen SketcJies.
party was honored by any official or political preferment.
The Federalists wrecked their party by violent oppo
sition to the war of 1812-13 with Great Britain. The
military and naval victories of that war and its glorious
and triumphant results utterly annihilated all opposition
to the conquering Democracy. From that time a more
conciliatory spirit Avas manifested by the ruling party,
and among the first evidences of that change of policy
was the recommendation in 1818, of Dr. Harrison for a
seat as a justice of the peace, upon the bench of the
County Court of . Berkeley. He accepted the position
and for near ten years discharged its duties with intelli
gence and promptness.
Upon the death of Maj. Faulkner in 1817, he qualified
under Ms will, as one of his executors, and by his kind,
generous and parental attention to the writer of this
sketch, justified the confidence reposed in him.
For some years before his death he was confined to the
house by a severe attack of gout, under which he suffer
ed until he expired in October, 1838.
He left a large and interesting family of children, some
of whom and the descendants of others are still in this
community. REV. ANDREW H. H. BOYD, D. D.,
Second son of Gen. Elisha Boyd, was born at Martins
burg, in the year 1814. He received his academic edu
cation at Martinsburg and Middleburg ; when fourteen
years old, he entered the junior class of Jefferson College,
and graduated with distinction in 1830. Shortly after
entering college he joined the Presbyterian Church and
resolved to preach the gospel. After graduation in Jef
ferson College, he spent two years at New Haven, to
perfect himself in particular studies ; completed a regular
course of theological education thereafter at Princeton ;
and subsequently visited Europe and attended lectures
delivered by the celebrated Dr. Chalmers and Sir Wil
liam Hamilton in Edinburg, Scotland. He was licensed

Historical Pen SketcJies. 147
to preach the gospel by the Presbytery of Winchester in
1837 ; entered upon his first charge over the churches of
Leesburg and Middleburg in 1888 ; accepted a call to
Harrisonburg in 1840 ; and to Winchester in 1842. He
Avas called, during all parts of his ministry to a number
of distinguished churches in the great cities, but being
wholly independent in his pecuniary circumstances, pre
ferred to remain in Winchester, to the people of which
city, and the County of Frederick, he exhibited a strong
attachment. His prominence as a citizen during the late
civil war, residing within the Confederate limits, caused
him to be seized as a hostage, and held in retalliation for
the arrest of other citizens attached to the cause of the
Union. He bore the illegal and unjustifiable imprison
ment consequent upon this seizure with all the patience
and fortitude of a Christian minister, but a fatal blow
was given to his health by the rigors of his long impris
onment. He never enjoyed a day of perfect health after
his restoration to liberty. His valuable ministry of three
and twenty years at Winchester was terminated after a
mournful and protracted illness on the 16th of December,
1865. A funeral address was pronounced over his re
mains by Rev. Joseph C. Stiles, of Georgia, which was
published in pamphlet form and is worthy of extensive
perusal. Dr. Boyd was a man of fine intellect. He was endowed
with quick and clear perception, a sound, discriminating
and comprehensive judgment, and especially with strong
and active reasoning faculties. He loved study and ever
felt both its necessity and obligation. He was a man of
extensive and useful information. On almost every
topic of literature and science he discoursed like one who
had given exclusive attention to those subjects, while in
his proper department of didactic and polemic theology,
ecclesiastical history and biblical criticism, few men in
the country had made such eminent attainments.
During his illness the presbytery met in Winchester

148 Historical Pen SketcJies.
and appointed a committee to convey to Dr. Boyd their
christian salutations and to assure him of their sincere
condolence in the painful and protracted trial which he
was then enduring. He received the distinguished atten
tion with such humble and touching gratitude to his
brethren, and in such calm and assured submission to the
will of God, that on the return of the committee the
chairman reported to presbytery that "he had seen Bun-
yan's Pilgrim on the banks of the river, joyfully await
ing his transportation to the opposite shore."
THOMAS MASLIN,
Son of Wm. and Ann M. Maslln, was born in Gerards
town, Berkeley County, on the 28th day of October, 1808.
At the early age of fifteen years and with but a very lim
ited education, he was placed in a store at Harper's Fer
ry and continued there and in similar situations until in
1880, when he removed to Moorfield. In 1831 he com
menced the mercantile business in that place without
capital and relying exclusively upon his own energy, in
tegrity and capacity for business. In this pursuit he
continued actively and successfully for a period of thirty
years. In 1837 he was commissioned a magistrate of
Hardy County, and continued to hold that office until the
magistry became elective under the constitution of 1850.
Under that new system he was elected to the same office,
and Avas made presiding justice of the County Court until
the County of Hardy was embraced in the newly created
State of West Virginia. When the Bank of the Valley
established a branch at Moorefield, in 1853, he was elect
ed a director and made President, and re-elected every
year until the bank was closed by the war. In 1861 he
was elected by an almost unanimous vote of the people
to represent the County of Hardy in the Virginia State
Convention, called together by the exigencies of the
opening civil war. In 1871 he was elected by a large
majority to represent the counties of Hardy and Grant in
the Constitutional Convention of West Virginia. He

Historical Pen SketcJies. 149
also filled various other offices In that county — AA'as trea
surer of one turnpike company and President of another.
He died at Moorfield on the 21st of September, 1878,
after a protracted illness of more than a year.
JOHNSTON MAGOWN,
For many years one of the most efficient and active
magistrates in the County of Berkeley. He resided in
Martinsburg, and kept his office in the frame building
attached to the Stewart Hotel. He was a man of strong
mind, with clever common sense views of the law. Few,
if any, appeals were ever taken from his decision, for all
had abounded confidence in his integrity and sense of
justice. He possessed much quaint and original humor.
His memory Avas stored Avith anecdotes, and being a bach
elor, with, none of the cares of a family about him, his
office, in which he also slept, was the regular resort of a
coterie of visitors during the long evenings in winter.
He died after a short illness, in 1836, to the regret of all
who knew him. MAJOR GEN, ADAM STEPHEN.
There is now upon the lands of Charles J. Faulkner
and within the recently enlarged limits of Martinsburg,
the remains of a monument, under which repose the ashes
of this distinguished soldier and patriot. By whom this
structure was erected — whether by the executors and
legatees of the deceased, or by the grateful contributions
of his countrymen, is not known. There is nothing in
the will nor in the detailed account of the executors to
throw any light on the subject. The design of the mon
ument is obviously a rectangular pyramid, with abase of
twenty feet square. Its supposed altitude from the ver
tex to the plane of the base may have been from six to
nine feet. It has now an elevation of a little more than
four feet. The large stones used in its construction —
some of them twelve feet In length, are hard sillclous
mountain stones, and must have been transported, at
great expense, from a distance, as they are not natives

150 Historical Pen SketcJies.
of this valley. I think a careful examination of the re
mains will lead to the conclusion (contrary to the present
popular belief) that the monument was once finished ac
cording to its original design, but being much exposed
and unprotected — a play spot for the boys — the apex was
first thrown off, and stone after stone injured and re
moved, leaving only what remains of the original struc
ture. It is at present within the limits of our city, and
since it has been in the possession of its present proprie
tor since 1339, (now thirty -three years ago) has been pro
tected from further injury.
General Stephen's life and fortunes are intimately iden
tified with the County of Berkeley. He was one of the
earliest immigrants to this locality — he became the own
er of large tracts of land in this neighborhood ; he was
one of the most active agents in having the County of
Berkeley established, and one of the most prominent
actors in its early civil and judicial history. It was upon
Ms land that the city of Martinsburg was located ; here
he lived a long and prosperous life, and in her soil have
his remains been interred. The people of Berkeley, there
fore, should feel an interest in learning something of his .
history, and a pleasure in seeing his memory vindicated
from any unjust and unmerited reproach cast upon it.
General Stephen was born about the year 1718, and is
believed to have been a native ,'of Pennsylvania. He em
igrated to this portion of Virginia about 1738, a few years
after the first settlements were made in this valley. He
must have derived the most of his land by direct grant
from Lord Fairfax. Military History.
The earliest notice we have of the military movements
of Adam Stephen, is in immediate connection Avith Wash
ington. Information reached the colonial authorities at
Williamsburg, that the French and Indians had taken
possession of the northwestern portion of Virginia, on
the Monongahela, murdering and driving aAvay the set-

Historical Pen SketcJies. 151
tiers of that section. The General Assembly authorized
the raising of six companies for the recovery of that ter
ritory. The command of this force was tendered to
Washington, but because of his you1;h he declined it in
favor of Col. Joshua Fry, an experienced English officer,
and Washington became Lieutenant Colonel. Stephen
had raised a company from the settlers hereabouts, and
by Washington's order, met Mm with his company at
Winchester on the 20th of March, 1754. This assembled
force started for the frontiers, but Col. Fry having died,
the command necessarily devolved upon Washington,
and Stephen, in June, 1854, was appointed Major. On
August the 14th, same year, the regiment was re-organ
ized with Washington as Colonel, Stephens as Lieut.
Colonel and Andrew Lewis as Major. They pursued
their difficult and wearisome march through the wilder
ness until they reached the Great Meadows, and there
unexpectedly encountered a hostile force, greatly supe
rior to their own, and were defeated in battle. They
took shelter in Fort Necessity, but they were, after a
gallant resistance, compelled to surrender, but upon
terms which allowed them to march out with fiying col
ors and with all the honors of war. Col. Stephen was
then placed in command of Fort Cumberland, the frontier
out post of that period. In 1755 he was in the memora
ble battle of the Monongahela, usually called Braddock' s
defeat, and was wounded, though not seriously. In 1756
he resumed his command of Fort Cumberland. In 1757
he accompanied Washington in his expedition to Fort
Du Quesne, where they recovered possession of th^t ter
ritory, and captured Fort DuQuesne, which they subse
quently named Fort Pitt, the site of the present city of
Pittsburg. In the same year he proceeded, by order of
Congress, to the South, to quell the hostilities of the
Creek Indians in that section. In August, 1763, the col
onial government ordered out a force of 1,000 men — 500
of whom were to be raised from this section of the colony

152 Historical Pen SketcJies.
and were placed under the command of Stephen, for ser
vice on the North-western frontier ; and 500 to be raised
in Greenbrier and the adjoining counties, and placed
under the command of Col. Andrew Lewis, to protect
the South-western portion of our territory. The object
of these expeditions was to repjel an attack upon our
people, by a formidable alliance of Shawnees, Delawares,
Wynadotts and other Indian tribes, acting in alliance
with Pontlac.
Sir Jeffery Amherst, then in command of all the British
forces in America, thus notices these expeditions in a
letter of the 27th of August, 1763, addressed to Sir Wil
liam Johnson, Superintendent of Indian affairs :
"An effectual stop avIU be put to these outrages ; par
ticnlarly as Col. Stephen with a body of 500 men of the
Virginia militia, is advanced as far as Fort Cumberland
and Bedford, with a view not only of covering the fron
tiers, but of acting offensively against the savages. That
public- spirited colony has also sent a large body of the
like number of men under the command of Col. Lewis
for the defence and protection of the South-west fron
tiers. What a contrast this makes between the Penn
sylvanians and Virginians, highly to the honor of the
latter ; but places the former in the most despicable light
imaginable." Again, in a letter of September the 14th, 1768, to the
same person, he says :
" The attempts against the Shawnees are certainly very
necessary, and I heartily wish Col. Stephen success in
his expedition. His chief danger Avill be his retreat up
the river."
Mr. Bancroft thus describes the sad condition of our
frontier in June, 1763, AvhIch It was the object of the
expedition under General Stephen to avenge and re
dress :
" Nor Avas its garrisoned stockades only that eucoun-
the fury of the savages. They roamed the AAilderness,

Historical Pen SketcJies. 153
massacring all Avhom they met. They struck down more
than a hundred traders in the Avoods, scalping every one
of them ; quaffing their gushing life blood, mutilating
their bodies. They prowled around the cabins of the
husbandman on the frontier, and their tomahawks struck
alike the laborer in the field or the child in the cradle.
They passed the mountains and spread death even to
Bedford. The unhappy emigrant knew not if to brave
danger or to leave his home and his planted fields for
wretchedness and poverty. Nearly five hundred families
from the frontiers of Virginia fled to Winchester, unable
to flnd so much as a hovel to shelter them from the
weather, bare of every comfort, and forced to lie scat
tered in the woods." {vol. 5tJi, page 124.)
After aiding to quell these hostile Indian movements,
Col. Stephen returned to the east and was placed in com
mand of Fort Loudon at Winchester, charged with the
protection of our entire Northwestern frontier.
All further dangers being removed from the frontiers,
our troops were disbanded and Col. Stephen, now a Brig
adier General in the State Militia, returned in 1768 to his
home in Berkeley County — after fourteen years of al
most continuous service in defense of the people and ter
ritory of Virginia.
That General Stej)lienat that period enjoyed in a high
degree the confldence of Washington is not only obvious
from the preceding narrative, but is further shoAvn by
the fact that when, in 1756, he was required to visit Bos
ton on important public business, he left Col. Stephen
in command of all the troops In the s-ervlce of Virginia.
In continuation of the history of his military service
we pass for the present over the intervening period of
time. At the commencement of the revolutionary Avar he was,
in December, 1775, commissioned by Virginia Colonel of
one of the regiments raised by that State. Isaac Reed
was at the same time chosen Lieut. Colonel, and Robt-

154 Historical Pen Sketches,
Lawson Major of this regiment. On the 13th of Febru
ary, 1776, he was transferred, with his regiment, to the
Continental line. On the 4th of September, 1776, he
was appointed by Congress a Brigadier General of the
Continental troops, and on the 9th of February, 1777,
promoted to the rank of Major General. Gen. Stephen
was with Washington in 1776, at the battles of Trenton
and Princeton — in his celebrated retreat of ninety miles
through the Jerseys — the most critical and disastrous
campaign of the war, but which was marked by brilliant
stratagems and daring exploits. He continued with him
in 1777, and at the battle of Brandywine was in ''com
mand of a division as Major General, giving entire satis
faction by his bravery and good conduct.
We now approach the most painful period of the mili
tary history of General Stephen. On November the 4th,
1777, was fought the battle of Germantown. Washing
ton was defeated. The enemy triumphed. Gen. Ste
phen was charged with " unofficer-like conduct," and
the specification was that he was " intoxicated" on that
day. He was found guilty and dismissed from the army.
The friends of General Stephen, whilst not questioning
a fact ascertained by a court of competent jurisdiction,
have neverthless complained of the harshness and un-
kindness of the sentence of dismissal. They thought in
view of his long and valuable military services and in
view of the further fact, that his intoxication in no wise
contributed to the disasterous befeat of that day, it
should have been overlooked, or a milder penalty inflic
ted. They say, further, that as strict a deciplinarian as
Washington Avas, he Avas more than usually severe and
exacting in this case, with a view of creating a vacancy
in that high grade of the army, for his friend and favor
ite, the Marquis de Lafayette. On the 26th of November,
1777, he wrote to the President of Congress, urging for
military and political considerations, the appointment of
Gen. Lafayette to a division of the army. This authority

Historical Pen SketcJies. 155-
was given to him by Congress on the 1st of December,
and in three days afterwards it was proclaimed in general
orders that he was to take command of the division re
cently under General Stephen, who had been dismissed
from the army.
I have read with great interest, the account of the
battle of Germantown, as given by our best historians to
see if our defeat was in any way attributable to the mis
conduct of General Stephen, or of the division of which
he had commanded, and I cannot find a single imputa
tion upon his conduct, personally, during the battle —
none upon his division except what is satisfactorily ex
plained. Washington Irving in his "Life of Washington," re
ferring to the delay of General Knox, in this battle, says:
"This half hour's delay of nearly one half of the army,
disconcerted the action. The divisions and brigades
thus separated from each other, by the skirmishing upon
Chew's house, could not be reunited. The fog and smoke
rendered all objects indistinct at thirty yards distance ;
the different parts of the army knew nothing of the posi
tion or movements of each other, and the commander-in-
chief could take no view nor gain any information of the
situation of the whole.
"Green and Stephen, with their divisions, having had
to make a circuit, were late in coming into action, and
became separated from each other, part of Stephen's
division being arrested by a heavy fire from Chew's house
and pausing to return it.
"At this moment a singular panic seized our army.
Wayne's division, which had pushed the enemy nearly
three miles, was alarmed by the approach of a large body
of American troops on its left fiank, which it mistook for
foes, and fell back in defiance of every effort of its officers
to rally it. In its retreat it came upon Stephen' s divi
sion, and threw it into a panic, being in its turn mistaken

156 Historical Pen Ske tcJies.
for the enemy ; thus all fell into confusion and our army
fled from Its own victory."
Mr. Bancroft, who may be regarded as one of the most
Impartial and perhaps one of the most censorious of our
historical critics, in describing that battle, utters not a
word in disparagement of Gen. Stephen.
" His (Washington's) plan was to direct the chief at
tack on the enemy' s right, to which the approach was
easy ; and for that purpose, to Greene, in whom of aU
his generals he most confided, he gave the command of
his left wing, composed of Greene and of Stephen, and
flanked by Macdougall's brigade."
Again, " Greene should by this time have engaged the
British right, but nothing was heard from any part of
his wing." Again, "and where was Greene? From
some cause, which he never explained, he reached the
British outpost three quarters of an hour later than the
troops of Washington ; then at a very great distance from
the force, which he was to have attacked, he formed his
Avhole wing, and thus in line of bg,ttle, attempted to ad
vance two miles or more through marshes, thickets and
strong and numerous post and rail fences. Irretrievable
disorder was the consequence ; the divisions became
mixed and the line was broken."
Again, "Greene on that day, ' fell under the frown' 6f
the Commander-in-Chief. Had the forces entrusted to
him acted as efficiently as the troops with Washington,
the day might have been fatal to HoAve's army."
Thus Greene and Woodford are censured by the histo
rian, for their conduct in this battle ; not a word of
censure is cast upon Gen. Stephen. From all which I
Infer, that whilst he may have been proved to have been
intoxicated on the day of battle, there is nothing in these
accounts to show that his intoxication disqualified him
for command, or that the country sustained any injury
from his Improper indulgence in the use of liquor.
Thus ended the military career of this distinguished

Historical Pen SJietcJies. 157
soldier, after a service of 14 years in fighting the French
and Indians, and tAvo in fighting the enemies of our lib
erty and independence. I have seen no evidence in his
previous career, and none in his subsequent life, that he
Avas habitually addicted to the use in excess -of ardent
spirits. For this one violation of military discipline he
seems to have been treated with unusual harshness.
Civil History.
After the return of Gen. Stephen from military servi
ces, in 1768, he gave Ms attention to his private affairs,
and was chiefly instrumental in having the county of
Berkeley created, by an act of the General Assembly.
Its limits were so arranged as to make the present site of
Martinsburg about the centre of the county. So perfectly
was this understood that the justices appointed by Lord
Dunmore assembled at that point on the 19 th of May,
1772, and formed the first court of the county. General
Stephen was one of the justices so appointed and also at
the same time commissioned first High Sheriff of the
county. Prompt arrangements were made for the erec
tion of all the necessary county buildings, and there
being no town then established, it was only known as the
Berkeley Court House. Gen. Stephen being withdrawn
from the county, by his services in the Revolutionary
army, no steps were taken for the establishment of a
town, until his return in 1777. In 1778 Martinsburg was
by an act of General Assembly laid out on 130 acres of
land, granted for that purpose by Gen. Stephen.
Mr. Bancroft, incorporated into his great historical
work, a letter df Gen. Stephen, written in advance of
the war, vindicating the position then being taken by
the colonies, that would have done honor to the patriot
ism and public spirit of a Henry or a Jefferson.
In 1788 Gen. Stephen and Gen. Darke were elected by
the voters of Berkeley county to the convention which
assembled in Richmond on the 2nd of June of that year
to determine whether Virginia would give her consent to

158 Historical Pen SketcJies.
the adoption of our present Federal Constitution. It is
difficult to imagine a higher and more important trust
that could have been confided to two of her citizens.
The convention was nearly equally divided on the ques
tion of the ratification or rejection of that Constitution.
In favor of its adoption were such men as Jas. Madison,
John Marshall, Edmund Pendleton and Geo. Wythe ;
for its rejection were such men as James Monroe, Patrick
Henry, George Mason and Theodore Bland. The vote
stood 89 for adoption, 79 against it. It is almost un
necessary to say that the delegation from Berkeley stood
by the Constitution in all their votes from the beginning
to the end of the session. For this alone, if for nothing
else, Ave owe them a debt of gratitude.
The speech delivered by Gen. Stephen in favor of the
adoption of the Constitution may be seen on pages 642,
643 and 644 of Elliot's debates of that convention, and
does great credit to his ability, eloquence and patroit-
ism. The speech is so honorable to him that it should
be incorpoT-ated into this sketch but it is too long for
present publication.
Gen. Stephen, died in Martinsburg in 1791, possessed
of a large real and personal estate. His will, bearing
date the 5th of June, 1791, was a;dmitted to record in the
Winchester District Court, at the September term, 1791.
He has left many descendants in the States of Virginia
and West Virginia, and many collateral relatives, the
grand children of his brother Robert.
Gen. Stephen, at his death, must have left many valua
ble papers in the hands of his executors, and especially
his military correspondence. But after inquiry I learn
that not a single paper has been preserved to throw light
upon his long and eventful career. A sketch of his life
can only be gleaned from the general histories and pub
lic records of the country. MOSES T. HUNTER,
Born in 1790, was the son of Moses Hunter, one of the

Historical Pen SketcJies. 159
early clerks of Berkeley, County, and one of the Presi
dential electors who cast the vote of Virginia for George
Washington. He was educated at Princeton, New Jer
sey, and after completing his collegiate course com
menced the study of law in Winchester, under Henry St.
George Tucker, his brother in-law, at that time one of
the most eminent and successful practitioners In Vir
ginia. When admitted to the bar he took up his resi
dence for a brief 'period In Martinsburg, but his tastes at
that time being more to literary than to legal pur
suits, he removed to his fine estate called the "Red
House" farm, inherited from his father, about one mile
north of the town.
The "Red House" was a well-known spot in the
annals of Berkeley County. It was, as stated, the prop
erty of his father, Moses Hunter, and it was here that
the court held its session from May 19, 1772, until by
virtue of a A?vrit obtained by Gen. Stephen from the Sec
retary's office its sessions were removed to Morgan's
Spring, near the present site of Martinsburg.
The jail, a temporary wooden structure, was located in
the public square, where the old market house subse
quently stood, near the property of Admiral Boarman.
The Clerk's office was at the corner of Queen and John
streets. Where the stocks or whipping post and pillory,
(an essential inheritance from our English ancestors)
were placed, I have no means of ascertaining. I can well
remember its dark and menancing outline when I was a
boy. It stood directly opposite the Court House door —
about thirty feet from the present curbstone, and more
than once have I witnessed the writhings and contortions
of human flesh, both of whites and blacks, under the lash
of the jailor, as I passed to and from old James Ander
son' s school house. The pillory as a punishment, Avas
established in England as early as the reign of Henry
III, and only abolished during the reign of the present

160 Historical Pen SketcJies.
Queen, Victoria, In June, 1837, a foAv years subsequent
to its abolition in this State.
The residence of Mr. Hunter In the country Avas In no
wise profitable to him. He had no taste for agriculture ;
he lived extravagantly, spent his money wastef ully ; and
his house and furniture having been consumed by fire,
he determined to return to Martinsburg and enter earn
estly upon the practice of his profession. His circuit
embraced the counties of Berkeley, Jefferson, Morgan
and Frederick ; especially the District Court of Chan
cery, held at Winchester, which had jurisdiction over
some fifteen or twenty counties. It was in Jefferson that
he seemed to make his deepest impression upon the pop
ular mind, and there, that he attained his largest and
most lucrative practice.
When I first recollect Mr. Hunter, which was in 1825,
he was of medium height and strongly tending to corpu
lency, but for a person of his bulk, active and alert on
his feet. His countenance, when in one of his gay and
pleasant humors, beamed with a benevolent expression ;
his eye sparkled with wit and intelligence, and his
demeanor was marked by courtesy and affability, but in
Ms crabbed and disagreeable moods — and they were by
no means uncommon — his face became as dark as a thun
der cloud, his tongue was tipped with venom and sar
casm, and his manners were repellant, morose and offen
sive. He had some of the finest qualities of an orator —
a rich and poetic fancy, a brilliant imagination, wit, hu
mor — a taste enriched by classical reading and high
powers of logical analysis. His voice was the most agree
able that I have ever heard at the bar — musical from its
lowest to its highest tones — and was admirably adopted
to give effect and emphasis to whatever he said, whether
in the department of wit, humor, sarcasm, pathos or de
nunciation. His powers of vocal mimicry were extraor
dinary, and if there was anything peculiar, quaint or lu
dicrous In the voice or deportment of the witnesses, he

Historical Pen SketcJies. 161
could reproduce them at the bar in a manner to covulse
the court room with laughter. He Avas the only lawyer
lever saw who could literally "laugh a case" out of
court. His keen sense of the ridiculous was such that
he would seize upon every incident in the prgress of a
trial that was capable of being perverted into a source of
humor and fun, and drive the poor plaintiff or defendant
out of court amidst the laughter of bench, bar, jury and
bystanders. His style of writing Avas rich, classical,
perspicuous and condensed,, the best specimens of which
that I have seen were his 4th of July oration delivered in
1825 and printed in the Martinsburg Gazette of that pe
riod, and his Masonic oration, delivered in 1826 in the
old Presbyterian church on King street, now a ruin. I
heard them both, and was delighted with their delivery,
and have often since read them with much pleasure.
When a youth, just from college, the writer of this
sketch would often saunter to the Court House to hear
the able lawyers then practising at this bar. The cases
which now dwell most especially in his memory were
those of James Parsons vs. James Gibson, and' William
Vance a's. James Parsons, all leading and influential men.
They were both celebrated causes and removed from
Hampshire to this county, and both cowhiding assaults
and batteries, growing out of the same ugly feud.
Among the counsel engaged were Alfred H. Powell, John
R. Cooke, Moses Hunter, Wm. Nayler and Elisha Boyd.
They gave rise to much eloquent speaking, but were
finally compromised to the satisfaction of all parties.
The case of Alexander Stephens and Isaac S. Lauckvs.
Matthew Ransone, was also among the causes celebres in
its day. Both plaintiffs and defendants were owners of
large merchant mills near Martinsburg, and all were men
of large influence and great wealth. Ransone was
charged with deliberately diverting the Tuscarora stream
so as to deprive the lower rival mill of its proper supply
of water. The case was fought with determined zeal and
11

162 Historical Pen SketcJies.
obstinacy on both sides. Cooke's opening AA-as in his
finest style of perspicuous narrative. Powell and Boyd
put forth their strongest poAvers in the defense. Hunter
commenced his closing argument with the quotation :
"When Greek meets Greek,
Then comes the tug of war,"
alluding to the Avealth, energy and influence of the con
testants, and followed it Avith one of the most striking
and masterly arguments that I ever heard at our bar.
' The jury brought in a small verdict for the plaintiffs —
^i)ut it was accepted without costs^a sort of drawn battle.
The first civil case in which I ever appeared at the bar
"^was an action of ejectment, brought by my client, Jonas
Hedges, vs. the well known Hunter John Myers, to re
cover a tract of land on the Meadow Branch, west of the
North Mountain. Both had patents for the same land,
but Hedges held the elder patent. The case was in the
county court. Hunter was my opponent. He vehemently
assailed the validity of the Hedges' patent for vagueness
in its entry and irregularity in its issue. He dwelt with
power and effect upon the ungenerous conduct of Hedges
in securing his patent in the manner he did, and upon
the noble and primitive virtues of the great Natty Bump
po, of Berkeley. It was in vain that I presented the
clear and indisputable law bearing on the subject — he
carried court and jury by storm. The law was submerged
under the flood of Ms eloquence. My client was turned
out of court. But his triumph was only short lived. I
removed the case by writ of supersedeas to the Superior
Court, where the ruling of the county court, admitting
improper evidence and giving wrong instructions, were
reversed, the verdict set aside and the case sent back
Avith such instructions as precluded all further contro
versy. Hedges recovered his land, Avith costs in both
courts. Some idea may be formed of the high poAA'ers of Mr.
Hunter, as an advocate and jurist, when we find the fol-

Historical Pen Sketches. 168
loAving notice of his first effort at the bar, in a AA'rItten
opinion, delivered by Chancellor Carr in the District
Court of Chancery, held at Winchester :
' ' These points were maintained with great ability, and
I must be permitted to say that I have seldom heard so
powerful an argument as that delivered by the opening
counsel. It gives me pleasure, in passing, to pay this
just tribute to the first essay in our court of a young
practitioner." A high compliment to be embraced in a judicial opin
ion from the pen of Dabney Carr.
Mr. Hunter was a Democrat, and as such, had giA'en
Ms ardent support to Mr. Clay in 1824. His speech in
support of the Kentucky statesman, in the Berkeley
Court House, Avas much admired at the time, and pre
sented some of the most captivating views of Mr. Clay's
noble and lofty character. But he had an unextingulsh-
able hatred to the Adams family, and when Mr. Clay by
his vote and influence made John Quincy Adams Presi
dent in 1825, Mr. Hunter gave Mm up and joined the cry
of that opposition, which in the language of Richard M.
Johnson, had combined to crush the administration for
the "original sin of its election, even tho' its acts should
prove it as pure as the angels of heaven."
Although the storm of political excitement was raging
wildly in the Spring of 1827, in Tennessee, Kentucky and
some of the Northern States, its influence was not felt in
the county of Berkeley. We had then no railroads, tel
egraphs, or telephones — few newspapers were taken
beyond the county, and outside intelligence reached us
slowly through the weekly or semi-weekly lumbering
stage coach. An evidence of the total absence of party
feeling is found in the fact that in April, 1827, Edward
Colston, Federalist, and a dayman, and Moses T. Hunt
er, Democrat, and a Jackson man, were both elected to
the House of Delegates without opposition, and with the
•concurrence of all the voters of the county.

164 Historical Pen SketcJies.
Mr. Hunter's career in the Legislature opened brilliant
ly, but terminated painfully. He made some speeches
which gave him high reputation — whilst his attic Avit,
his captivating conversational powers, >hls Avealth of an
ecdote and his pungent satire, made him a great favorite
In the social circle. But Richmond was not at that time
a safe place for one having the tastes and propensities of
Mr. Hunter. He relapsed into habits of dissipation,
under which his system became disordered, and he was
attacked with a serious, and which proved fatal malady.
He returned to Martinsburg in bad health and died,
after a long and painful illness, on the 4th of June, 1829,
at the residence of his brother-in law. Chancellor Tucker,
in Winchester, in the 39th year of Ms age.
There are some now living in this county, who can re
call with pleasure the many occasions when they have
hung with rapture upon the glowing eloquence, powerful
argument, brilliant and irresistable flashes of wit and
humor that marked Ms professional efforts.
EDWARD COLSTON
Was born at HoneyAvood in the County of Berkeley,
in 1788. He graduated with distinction at Princeton
College, New Jersey, in 1806. He passed through a reg
ular course of legal studies, municipal and international,
with no view to the piactice of the profession, but to
qualify himself for the intelligent discharge of any pub
lic duty which in a Republic like this, the people might
devolve upon him. He was an ardent Federalist, in
perfect accord with the predominant sentiment of this
county, and as a young man of talent and high promise,
was cordially welcomed as an important accession to the
party. At twenty -five years of age he was elected a
member of the House of Delegates ; and when but twenty
nine years old, elected a member of the United States
Congress from the district composed of the counties of
Berkeley, Jefferson, Hampshire and Hardy.
In June, 1814, he was married to Jane Marshall, daugh-

Historical Pen SJietcJies. 165
ter of Charles Marshall, of Fauquier Count}'. She died
on the 5th of March, 1815, in giving birth to a child, ten
months after marriage, and in the 21st year of her age.
The papers of that day are full of tributes to her many
virtues and entrancing loveliness. The child Avas burled
in the same grave with the mother.
When Mr. Colston took his seat in the 15th Congress
(1st Monday of December, 1817), he found himself asso
ciated in his legislative labors with many distinguished
men, among whom were Henry Clay, General Harrison,
subsequently President ; Henry Baldwin, John Sergeant,
Philip P. Barbour, John Floyd, R. M. Johnson, subse
quently Vice-President ; Henry St. George Tucker,
Charles Fenton Mercer, etc. Although but a young man
and a young member, he took an active and prominent
part in the proceedings of that body. His speeches on
the "Commutation of soldiers' pay," for relief to the
" Surviving Revolutionary soldiers," in favor of "the
Internal Improvement powers of Congress," upon "the
Migration of Slaves," upon "the Reduction of the Staff
of the Army," and especially his elaborate speech on the
resolution of the Military Committee condemning the
conduct of General Jackson, for the execution of Arbut-
not and Ambrester in the Seminole war, show not only
his ability and self reliance, but the extent of his infor
mation, and his capacity to take a leading part in any
dellberatlA'e assembly. He seems to have participated in
all the discussions of that body ; to have grappled in
debate Avith the foremost intellects, and to have main
tained his opinions with firmness and ability.
After the close of his most creditable service In Con
gress, Mr. Colston found it necessary, in consequence of
the increasing age and infirmities of his father, to give
his attention to the Honeywood estate in this county and
also to the extensive landed possessions of his father, in
Virginia and Kentucky.
Mr. Colston was elected to the House of Delegates from

166 Historical Pen SketcJies.
this county in 1823 and 1824, and Avas again a candidate
for Congress in 1825. In this contest he was defeated by
Wm. Armstrong of Hampshire. The Martinsburg Ga
zette of the 28th of April, 1825, iu referring to the defeat
of Mr. Colston :
"We were present on Monday last and heard Mr.
Colston address the voters. He exposed in a concise,
eloquent and convincing manner the glaring calumnies
that had been industriously circulated against him, and
left a deep impression on the minds of the people of the
gross injustice which had been done him by those slan
ders and which had resulted in Ms defeat."
No doubt Mr. Colston was grossly caluminated in that
canvass, but the real cause of his defeat was the disor
ganization and disruption of the party of which he had
been so conspicuous a member. The Federalists ceased
to exist as a National party after the close of the war
with Great Britain, and whilst that may not have been
the direct issue involved, yet he had been too distin
guished in its history, not to be made to share the conse
quences of its fall. Some amend, however, was made to
his disappointed ambition by his unanimous election to
the House of Delegates, in 1826, by the voters of Berke
ley. He Avas again re-elected in 1827, 1833 and 1834.
Whilst in Richmond he formed the acquaintance of
Miss Sarah Jane Brockenbrough, the intelligent and ac
complished daughter of Judge William Brockenbrough,
to whom he was married — from which marriage has re
sulted a highly educated and interesting family of sons
and daughters.
Mr. Colston was commissioned a magistrate of the
County Court in 1818, and no one could have taken a
more lively interest in the performance of its important
and responsible duties than he did. His intelligence,
his knowledge of law, his integrity, his high sense of
justice, gave to all his decisions, whether on the Bench
OS in pais, a weight and authority accorded to but few

Historical Pen SJietcJies. 167
of his brethren. He was also commissioned High Sheriff
of Berkeley County and acted as such in 1844 and 1845.
Although a Federalist and concurring with his party
in opposition to the declaration of war against Great
Britain, yet when war was declared by the constituted
authorities, he volunteered as a member of Captain Faulk
ner's Artillery Company, soon reached the rank of Lieu
tenant and was present, near Norfolk, when the combined
military and naval attack was made by the British upon
the defences of that important city. He bore the repu
tation of a brave and conscientious soldier.
Mr. Colston was a member of the Episcopal church — a
sincere and practical Christian and an ardent promoter
of all institutions and enterprises looking to the advance
ment of religion, and to the spread of the life saving
doctrines of the Redeemer of the world.
Mr. Colston died suddenly — unexpectedly, in the
twinkling of an eye — from some affection of the heart,
on the 23d of April, 1851. He left a will, devising his
whole property, subject to the payment of his debts, to
Ms estimable Avidow, Sarah Jane Colston, and appointing
her, Chas. J. Faulkner and his brother-in-law, Willough-
by Newton, of Westmoreland County, Va., exectitors of
Ms will.
An intelligent gentleman from Eastern Virginia, who
had just come from spending tAvo weeks at Honeywood,
thus speaks to the Avriter of this sketch, of Mr. Colston,
in 1838 :
"I consider EdAvard Colston, the finest specimen of a
country gentleman whom I have yet met in Virginia.
His manners are courteous, polite and dignified ; his con
versation highly instructive and interesting, and his hos
pitality free and cordial, without being oppressive. He
is fond of agriculture, history and general literature. He
has a noble inheritance and a magnificent library. He is
loved by all Ms neighbors, for his kindness and charities
and they look up to him as a friend, adviser and coun-

168 Historical Pen SketcJies.
sellor. He has a charming family and a delightful resi
dence. What more need any man want to ensure his
happiness in this world ?"
It is deeply to be regretted that Mr. Colston did not
himself cherish the views expressed by this intelligent
visitor. He was unhappily not content with the rich
blessings which then surrounded him. The activity of
Ms mind led him to engage in milling enterprises and
speculations. He became, in the honesty and unsuspect
ing integrity of his heart, the sport of fortune, and the
victim of accomplished villains, and that " noble inheri
tance" has thus passed from his widow and children, to
discharge forged obligations and unfortunate specula
tions in trade. JAMES FAULKNER,
Son of George and Rebecca Faulkner, was born on the
2nd of April, 1776, in the county of Armagh, Ireland, a
few miles from Newry. The family, as the name itself
sufficiently indicates, was of English origin, their ances
tor having emigrated to Ireland in the, reign of William
and Mary. Having been left an orphan by the death of
both his parents, at the early age of ten years, he accep
ted the kind offer of Richard McSherry, a friend of the
family, to accompany him upon his return to America.
They arrived In the port of Baltimore in the latter part
of 1786.
Richard McSherry had some years before emigrated
from that part of Ireland, and had gone to the Island of
Jamaica to improve his fortunes. He was a man of ener
gy and enterprise, and soon got occupation as the manager
of a large sugar plantation. He remained there for sever
al years, until he succeeded in accumulating quite a res
pectable fortune. He then visited the United States, and
purchased a fine farm in the then County of Berkeley,
near to the present village of Leetown. Not being able
to get Immediate possession of his purchase, he availed
Mmsels of the Interval to pay a visit to Ms old home in

Historical Pen SketcJies. 169
Ireland. It Avas upon his return from this visit, that the
boy Faulkner accompanied him to America. It Is said
that Richard McSherry was the first person who Intro
duced from Jamaica into this country, the tomato and
okra, as esculents for the table.
Young Faulkner Avas brought to Martinsburg and
placed under the charge of Michael McKoAvan, an Irish
man, who then kept a retail store in that toAvn. He re
mained In his service until he was of age, in 1797, Avhen
he purchased the property at the southeastern corner of
Burke and Queen streets, and commenced business on his
own account.
On the 15th of December, 1803, he was married to
Sarah Mackey, only daughter of William Mackey, of
Martinsburg. He was not particularly fond of the mercantile busi
ness, and from 1804 until 1808, he spent much of his time
in correspondence with Hon. James Stephens, and Hon.
John Morrow, the representatives in Congress from this
district ; with Henry Dearborn, the Secretary of War,
and President Jefferson, in endeavoring to gratify his
military tastes by procuring a commission In the regular
army of the United States. But our army was then small
— there Avere few vacancies or promotions, and his efforts
in that direction Avere unsuccessful.
Towards the close of Mr. Jefferson's administration in
1809, the relations between this country and Great Bri
tain had become very critical. The affair of the Chesa
peake had occurred ; the sensibilities of the nation were
deeply aroused by the habitual impressment of our sea
man ; by the contemptuous deportment of England to
our representatives, and by the destruction of our com
merce, and an intense war spirit prevaded the land,
which was alone held in check by the extraordinary in
fluence of Mr. Jefferson, and by his determined pieace
policy. It nevertheless became apparent to all men, that
unless Great Britain altered her conduct to this county,

170 Historical Pen SketcJies.
which Avas hardly anticipated, Avar would be inevitable
in a year or two. It was under these circumstances that
Mr. Faulkner, unable to procure a position In the regular
army, determined to organize a volunteer artillery com
pany in Berkeley County, to meet any of the probable
demands of war. This was promptly accomplished.
James Faulkner Avas elected Captain, Robert Wilson 1st
Lieutenant and William Long 2nd Lieutenant. Among
the names familiar to our people who thus volunteered
as privates, were John R. Cooke, Edward Colston, John
Alburtis, Alexander Stephen, William Campbell, James
Newkirk, Tillotson Fryatt, A dam Young, Jacob Snyder,
John Mathews, Jacob Poisal, Chas. Pendleton, James
Shearer, Nicholas Orrick, and some flfty others. It will
be conceded that no other vounteer company in the State
was better drilled ; was composed of more reliable ma
terial, or could boast of men more determined to stand
by their country In any hour of difficulty or trial.
On the 18th of June 1812, war was declared by the
United States against Great Britain. During that year
and the earlier part of 1813, the fighting was mainly con
fined to the Canada frontier, where notwitstanding some
brilliant victories upon our part, the British, aided by
the Northwestern Indians under Tecumseh, inflicted
some severe defeats upon our armies.
In the Martinsburg Gazette of the 7tli of February,
1812, Is found the following extract from an address to
the artillery company :
"You have upon two former occasions, volunteered
your services to the government, the commander hopes
your patriotic and military pride will not be damped by
the circumstance that you have not been ordered Into
actual service. He flatters himself that as there is now
every probability of a Avar that you will authorize him to
offer your services to march wherever you may be require
ed. He returns his thanks to those patriotic young men
not belonging to the company, Avho enrolled themselves

Historical Pen SJietcJies. 171
to march Avith him on a former occasion, and flatters him
self that they, and others who feel a desire to serve their
country in the ranks of its defenders, will come forward
and join the parade on Saturday, the 22nd Inst., the an
niversary of the birth of the immortal Washington.
James Faulkner,
Feb. 1th, 1812 Captain 1st M. Artillery.
As early as March, 1812, there were satisfactory rea
sons to believe that a formidable military and naval dem
onstration of the enemy would, in the course of the
summer, if not earlier, be made upon Norfolk and Ports
mouth, in Virginia. Accordingly general orders were
issued on the 24th of March, for the assembling of a con
siderable portion of the State militia at those points.
Among the companies so ordered into service was Captain
Wilson's Berkeley Artillery, for such it then was. Cap
tain Faulkner had been, early in March, promoted to the
rank of Major of Artillery, was thus separated from his
company ; and was ordered by Governor Barbour to re
port to him at Richmond, and to take command of all
the artillery, companies then assembled at the capital.
He reported to the Governor on the 10th of April, and
taking command of these companies he proceeded with
them to the seat of war.
Early in June Admiral Warren with a large naval and
military force arrived in the Chesapeake Bay ; the land
force being under the command of Gen. Sir Sidney Beck-
with. The appearance of this formidable force in the
Chesapeake Bay created much uneasiness in the more
considerable cities situated upon its waters. Baltimore,
Annapolis and Norfolk were threatened. But the fleet
directed its course toward Hampton Roads, and it was
evident that the cities of Virginia were to receive the
blow. About four miles Avest of Norfolk and commanding
the approach to that city, lay Craney Island. This was
the exposed outpost of our military line— the nearest in

172 Historical Pen SketcJies.
contact with the enemy— a position of great importance
as the key to the harbor, and which it was indispensa
ble that the enemy should possess before they could reach
the cities of Norfolk and Portsmouth.
Among the general orders issued by Major General
Taylor, Commander-in-Chief, on the 13th of June, are
the following :
"Major Faulkner of the regiment of Artillery will to-
morroAv take the command of all the artillery and fortifi
cations of Craney Island.
The commander of artillery will direct Capt. Wilson's
company of artillery to some place near the" entrench
ments in the rear of Fort Norfolk."
On the 22nd of June occurred the battle of Craney
Island. I am not disposed to repeat the details of that
battle. They can be seen in the various histories of the
late Avar with Great Britain, and in the recently illustra
ted history of that war by Benson J. Lossing, Avhich con
tains a xDortrait and autograph signature of Major Faulk
ner. It can also be seen in the elaborate report of a Com
mittee of the House of Delegates of Virginia, who Avere
appointed to take testlmoney, and to make a thorough
examination into the details of that battle, and which re
port, with the resolutions and evidences accompanying
it,, unanimously concurred in by the House, is the proud
est monument that could be erected to the memory of
Major Faulkner.
It is sufficient to say the battle of Craney Island was
Avon ; that It AA-as won exclusively by the artillery enga
ged In Its defence ; that a force of near 3,000 British
soldiers were signally repulsed ; that the cities of Nor
folk and Portsmouth were saved and that the results of
that battle were hailed throughout the country as a
National balm for our defeats on the northwestern
frontier. On the 5th of July Major Faulkner was placed In com-

Historical Pen SketcJies. 173
maud of Forts Barbour and Tar and a mile of breastwork
extending between the two forts, with his headquarters
at Norfolk.
Major Faulkner was not a man of robust constitution,
but rather of delicate physical organization, and the effect
of that low- land summer climate, with the fatigues and
exposures of the service, gave a shock to his system from
which he never recovered. He Avas an invalid from the
close of the war until his death, which occurred on the
11th of April, 1817, in the 41st year of his age. He was
buried with military and masonic honors In the Norborne
cemetery, where a granite monument uoav stands erected
to Ms memory.
Postcript. — When the facts connected with the battle
of Craney Island were under examination by the Legisla
ture of Virginia, Major Faulkner's official report of that
battle was not before the committee. Indeed, it was not
known that any copy of it had been preserved or was in
existence, as the substance of it had been incorporated
into the account of the battle as given by Major- General
Robt. B. Taylor, then Commander-in-Chief. Since that
that time a copy of it has been fojind, in the hand- writ
ing of the author, inclosed in a letter to Col. Elisha Boyd
under date of the 6th of July, 1818. It is deemed un
necessary to publish it in full, as in all its prominent
facts it is in harmony with the received histories of that
battle and in accord with the conclusions of the legisla
ture. Had it been before the committee it would have
removed all doubt upon one point upon which the com
mittee expressly refrained from announcing any opinion ;
that was to whom the credit was due for the successful
shot which sunk Admiral Warren's barge.
The committee say :
" Scarcely had the enemy been driven, by our well di
rected fire, from their assailing position on the land, Avhen
fifty of their largest barges, filled with men from the
ships supposed to contain about 1,500 sailors and ma-

174 Historical Pen SketcJies.
rines, begun to approach AvIthin the range of our artil
lery. They were advancing towards the island, in col
umn order, in two distinct divisions, one following the
•channel between the island and the main land, led on by
Admiral Warren's barge, the Centipede, a boat upwards
of fifty feet in length, rowing twenty-four oars, Avith a
brass three pounder in her bow, under the command of
Capt. Hanchett, of his Majesty's ship Diadem ; the other
directing its course to some point on the north of the
island. Whilst the barges were approaching. Captain
Emerson observed to Major Faulkner 'Are they near
¦enough to fire?' 'No, sir,' replied the commander of
artillery, 'let them approach a little nearer.' In a few
moments afterwards the word ' fire ' was given, when our
whole battery, except the disabled pieces, opened upon
the nearest division of boats a brisk and heavy discharge
of grape and canister. The barges, however, continued
to advance in the face of this destructive fire until they
could no longer maintain themselves under it, when the
Centipede and the boats immediately following her were
observed to change their direction toward the division of
barges aiming at the north of the island, at which mo
ment the Centipede was sunk by a shot from one of the
guns passing through the boat, in the wake of the after-
thwart, wounding several, and among them Capt. Han
chett, the commanding officer of the division, severely in
the thigh. At this time, so quick and galling was our
fire, that the enemy were thrown into the greatest con
fusion, and the order was soon after given for a hasty re
treat to the ships."
Again the committee say :
' ' Much of the eclat which attached to the guns under
the immediate command of Lieut. Neale, resulted from
the general impression and belief that it was a shot from
the 18-pounder which passed through and sunk the Cen
tipede. Whether that result was produced by a shot
from the eighteen, or one of the six-pounders, this com-

Historical Pen SketcJies. 175
mittee avIII not undertake to determine. There are strong
and confident statements and opinions sustaining either
view, which will be found In the appendix accompany
ing this report."
Had this re^Dort been before that body there could have
been no doubt announced on this point, for Major Faulk
ner expressly states in his report: "Captain Emerson
and Lieutenant Neale informed me that their guns Avere
pointed andin readiness to bear upon the leading boat,
which proved to be the Admiral's barge. I immediately
ordered them to fire, when the second fire of Lieut. Neale
had the desired effect and sunk the barge."
He concludes his report as follows :
' ' The officers principally enged in the action were
Captain Rook, of the ship Manhattan ; Lieut. Neale, of
the frigate Constitution ; Capt. Emerson, Lieuts. Howie
and Godwin and Sergeants Young and Butt, of the Ports
mouth Artillery, who, for their skill and bravery in re
pelling so large a force of the enemy, deserve the thanks
of the country. Lieuts. Shubrick, Saunders and Breck-
enridge, of the Constellation, with their crews, as brave
and determined a set of men as I ever saw, gave substan
tial aid and assistance in the defense."
MAJOR HENRY BEDINGER,
Was born at Little York, Pennsylvania, October 16th,
1758. His father emigrated to Berkeley County in 1758.
In June, 1775, he volunteered in a company raised in the
County of Berkeley, under the command of Capt. Hugh
Stephenson, which marched in July of that year to the
siege of Boston. At the expiration of one year, their
term of service having expired, this company was dis
banded. Immediately thereafter a rifie regiment was or
ganized, of which Hugh Stephenson was appointed Col
onel and Abraham Shepherd commissioned as senior Cap
tain of one of the companies. Young Bedinger was
commissioned as Third Lieutenant in this company, and
his original commission as such signed by John Hancock,

176 Historical Pen SketcJies
President of Congress, may be seen, framed and hanging
in the house of Ms grandson, H. B. Davenport, Esq., near
CharlestoAvn. After three days' severe fighting at King's
Bridge, this regiment, then commanded by Colonel Raw
lings, was forced to capitulate, and surrendered them
selves as prisoners of war in the capture of Fort Wash
ington. This occurred on the 16th of November, 1777,
and Lieut. Bedinger was confined as a prisoner on Long
Island until the summer of 1781. After having thus en
dured the rigor of Imprisonment for four years, he was
exchanged, and, returning to the army, he was commis
sioned a Captain in the 4th Virginia Regiment and or
dered to Yorktown, but before he reached that point the
surrender of Lord CornAvallis and his army had taken
place. At the close of the revolutionary war he returned
to ShepherdstoAvn, then in the County of Berkeley, and
there entered into the mercantile business. Upon the
death of Moses Hunter he was, in August, 1798, elected
Clerk of the County Court of Berkeley, when he removed
to Martinsburg, its county seat. Prior to this time he
had been elected and served one year as a member of the
House Delegates of Virginia. The validity of his elec
tion as Clerk of the County Court was vigorously con
tested by Col. David Hunter, his competitor for that
office. This led to protracted litigation, in which the
ablest counsel in the United States Ave'f e employed — John
Marshall, Luther Martin and Walter Jones being of the
number, and party spirit then running very high, Bedin
ger being a Jeffersonian Republican, and Hunter an ar
dent and prominent Federalist, the contest excited deep
interest throughout the country. The venue of the trial
of the case was changed by the General Court of Virginia
at its November term, 1799, from the Winchester District
Court to Staunton, but subsequently sent back to Win
chester. The suit resulted in a judgment, rendered De
cember, 1803, setting aside the election of Major Bedin
ger and the transfer of the office to- his opponent. Col.

Historical Pen SketcJies. 177
Hunter. Some of the remains of that litigation are to be
seen upon the records of our courts as late as 1830. He
was a member of the Society of the Cincinnatti, and his
diploma as such, handsomely framed, still adorns the
parlor of one of his decendants. After his amotion from
the office of Clerk, he removed to his fine estate "Pro-
tumna," five miles south of Martinsburg. He was a
careful farmer and an enthusiastic cultivator of fine fruits.
He possessed an extraordinary memory and delighted in
his hospitable mansion to dwell upon the incidents of
our revolutionary war. He could remember, with great
distinctness, even in very advanced life, the company,
regiment, rank and service of almost any officer in the
Virginia line, and it was through his retentive' memory
that many received that justice from their country AvMch
otherwise, from lost and mutilated records, they could
never have obtained. He bore the reputation of a pa
triot and good citizen up to the period of his death, which
occurred on the 14th of May, 1843, then nearly ninety
years of age. ALEXANDER WHITE
Was among the earliest of those who presented their
licenses and qualified as practitioners of law in this coun
ty. This was on the first day that the first court was
held in Berkeley county. May 19th, 1772. The proper
oath of an attorney-at-law was duly administered to him,
Philip Pendleton and four others. On the same day, as
the record reads.
"Alexander White having produced a commission from
the Attorney General of this county, appointing him
deputy attorney for this county, the same being read, he
having taken the usual oath, and sworn Deputy King's
attorney for this county."
Mr. White was elected the first member of Congress
from this District, under the present Constitution of the
United States. He was a man of marked punctuality
and system, and a slight evidence of this may be seen in

178 Historical Pen SJietcJies.
the fact, that he Avas the only member of Congress from
Virginia who was present on the first day of its session.
The Annals of Congress are meager in the debates of that
period, although accurate so far as they give the sub
stance of the remarks made — a practice that shouldnever
have been departed from. Mr. White took a prominent
part In all the debates of that term of Congress, and as
¦our enlightened statesmen Avere then laying the founda
tion of our legislative system, the subjects before them
were necessarily numerous, important and interesting.
He bore the reputation of a man of learning, of great
ability and of ardent patriotism.
Mr. White was re-elected to the 2nd Congress in 1791,
over his two competitors. Generals William Darke and
James Wood.
In 1798 he Avas commissioned as magistrate of Berke
ley county.
Mr. White was dragged from his retirement to repre
sent the county of Berkeley in the House of Delegates
of Virginia, during the important sessions of 1799 and
1800, when the celebrated report and resolutions of Mr.
Madison were the subject of such earnest debate, and
which gave such an impulse to the Revolution which
brought Mr. Jefferson into power.
As has been already stated Alexander White was the
first representative in Congress from this District under
the present Constitution of the United States. That
election occurred on the 2nd of February, 1789. At that
time no census had been taken of the population of the
States, and the Constitution provided "until such enum
eration was made," Virginia should be entitled to ten
members in the House of Representatives. The General
Assembly therefore laid off the State into ten districts,
making the counties of Berkeley, Hampshire, Shenan
doah, Hardy, Monongalia, Ohio, Randolph and Fred
erick the first district. It was from this district that Mr.
White was elected in 1789, and re-elected in February,

Historical Pen SJietcJies. 179
1791. After the census of 1790 was completed and Con
gress had fixed the ratio of reprsentatlon, Virginia be
came entitled to 19 representatives and the legislature
then divided the State into 19 districts making "Berke
ley and Frederick" the first District, which so continued
until after the census of 1800. The first election under
this apportionment was on the third Monday in March,
1793, when Robert Rutherford was returned. He was
re-elected in 1795, General Daniel Morgan in 1797 ; and
David Holmes, subsequently Governor of Mississippi
and U. S. Senator from that State, was then elected and
continued in Congress until the District was changed
under the apportionment of the census of 1800.
HON. ROBERT RUTHERFORD,
Of Berkeley was elected to the 3rd Congress in 1793,
from the District composed of the counties of Berkeley
and Frederick. He was re-elected to the 4th Congress
in 1795, thus serving four years as a representative in
Congress from this District. He was a candidate for re-
¦election to the 5th Congress but was defeated by General
Daniel Morgan. He contested Morgan's election before
the House, but the decision was in favor of the right of
Morgan to the seat.
Mr. Rutherford does not seem to have participated
very actively in the general debates of the House, and
yet, in January, 1794, he delivered quite an elaborate
speech on "The Commerce of the United States," andin
March, 1776, participated in the great debate of that
period upon the "Constitutional Powers of Congress,"
in reference to treaties and in April, 1696, gave his views
at large in opposition to the provision for carrying the
British treaty into effect. All his views would seem to
class him with the Democratic rather than the Federal
side of the House.
It might afford some interest to take a few extracts
from these speeches (especially as the reporter declares
them to be authentic, they "having passed the revision

ISO Historical Pen SketcJies.
of the Speaker") as illustrative of 'Mr. R's. vieAvs and
opinions, but they must be passed by for the present.
Feeling that he was, In his public course, acting in op
position to the recommendations of Washington, he thus
refers to their personal relations :
' 'Much stress has been laid on the patriotism of the
President, which makes It necessary for me to reply, lest
I may be taken for one uninformed. I have had the
honor of the President' s acquaintance well nigh, or quite,
forty years, and he has supported every character with
merit, dignity and unswerving attention. I have acted
with him on trying occasions, sometimes equal, often-,
times in a subordinate sphere, and tho' senior in point of
years, yet, I uniformly looked up to him as a parent —
my head and my guide ; yet I am independent of the
President — an unchangeable friendship excepted."
Judging of Mr. Rutherford by the impression made
upon me by his speeches in Congress I would say that he
was a man of strong and original mind — honest and sin
cere in all Ms convictions — upright and independent in
his bearing, but not of much mental cultivation, nor
deeply Imbued with the facts of history, nor the lessons
of statesmanship.
I have heard traditionally and seen In print many an
ecdotes of Mr. Rutherford illustrative of his homely
manners, the simplicity of his dress, the frugality of his
mode of living, and of Ms awkwardness in society, but
these stories may or may not be true — and as they touch
none of the substantial merits of a man — are not worthy
of being remembered or repeated.
GENERAL DANIEL MORGAN
Represented this county and district in the 5th Con
gress of the United States — that is from 1797 to 1799.
The military history of this distinguished soldier, has
been so frequently written and is so familiar to the pub
lic mind, that it need only here be briefly glanced at.

Historical Pen SketcJies. 181
He is mentioned in these sketches only because of his
connection with the County of Berkeley.
He was born in New Jersey in the year 1737. At the
age of eighteen, he emigrated to Virginia and obtained
employment from farmer Roberts, of Berkeley County.
He delighted in the management and use of his team,
and acquired throughout life, the subriquet of the "old
wagoner." He shared in the perils of Braddock' s de
feat, probably as a wagoner, and Avas wounded by a bul
let through his neck and cheek. The proflt of his busi
ness as a wagoner enabled him to purchase a tract of land
in Frederick County, where he lived at the commence
ment of the Revolutionary War. In June, 1775, he was
appointed a captain by Congress. He was in the expedi
tion against Quebec, and contributed to the capture of
Burgoyne. He defeated Tarlton in January, 1781, in the
battle of Cowpens, taking upwards of 500 prisoners. For
this action Congress voted him a gold medal. Soon af
terwards he retired from the army and returned to his
farm. The excise, or as it is most usually called '"The whis
key Insurrection," is an interesting episode in our early
history. It was the first open, defiant and formidable
oppo.sition of the Federal government, after the adoption
of our present constitution. It grew out of an act of
Congress imposing an internal revenue duty on distilled
spirits. Much dissatisfaction existed throughout the
United States at the imposition of this excise duty. But
it was in Western Pennsylvania, and especially in the four
counties of Alleghany, Washington, Green and West
moreland, that this dissatisfaction broke out in open re
bellion. The revenue officers were seized, tarred and
feathered. The houses and barns of those supposed to
be friendly to the Government were burnt. Many acts of
extreme violence Avere perpetrated. No civil process
could be executed. Lawlessness universally prevailed.
Armed bands of forty and fifty, and even as high as five

182 Historical Pen SketcJies.
hundred, were organized to resist the government. It
was boldly asserted that the insurgents could bring into
the field seven thousand well armed troops. It could not
be supposed that such men as President Washington
and Secretary Hamilton would tamely submit to see the
new Government thus paralyzed and defied in the per
formance of one of its most important and vital functions.
A proclamation Avas issued by President Washington,
calling upon the insurgents to disperse. This not being
obeyed, a recjuisltion was made upon the States of Penn
sylvania, New Jersey and Virginia for 15,000 troops to
crush the Insurrection. The requisition was promptly
complied with. General Henry Lee, of Virginia, was
placed in command of the army. Gen. Morgan was as
signed to the command of the Virginia troops. Hamilton
left the Treasury Department and remained during the
expedition at the headquarters of the commanding gen
eral. Washington proceeded toward the scene of strife
as far as York, and designed taking command in person,
but public business (Congress thenbeing in session) called
him to Philadelphia. The appearance of this formidable
army in the disaffected district under such able, popular
and experienced commanders soon brought the insurgents
to their senses. They rapidly disbanded and dispersed.
Some of the leaders were indicted for treason, but no con
victions followed, and Gen. Morgan, with a body of Vir
ginia militia, Avas left for some time in the disaffected
district to see that no further violence was attempted.
In 1797 Gen. Morgan was elected from the district com
posed of the counties of Berkeley and Frederick, as a
member of the 5th Congress. His opponent was Robt.
Rutherford, Avhom he defeated. The election was con
tested before the House, but the committee reported in
favor of Morgan, and as Rutherford did not appear to
contest the conclusions of the report, it AA'as unanimously
concurred in by the House.
General Morgan submitted no motion and made no

Historical Pen SketcJies. 183
speech during his term of service. He was a rough, un
educated man, and while _ he felt perfectly at home on
the field of battle, he, with sensible modesty, knew his
deficiencies in civil life, and felt like a child in the pres
ence of the enlightened statesmen then around him. But
if he did not know how to speak, he knew hoAv to vote
with his party, and if the records of Congress be searched
there will be found no name that adhered so loyally to
its allegiance to the Federal organization as Daniel Mor
gan. He had able and accomplished leaders in the per
sons of Harrison, Gray, Otis and Robert Goodloe Har
per, to point out to him the path of party duty, and he
followed them with the same unfaltering fidelity with
which he had followed Washington in the field of battle.
He voted for the bill to punish "usurpation of Executive
authority," and against the repeal of the alien and sedi
tion laws, and at the close of his term published an ad
dress to his constituents vindicating the administration
of the elder Adams. No one doubts that he Avas an hon
est and conscientious politician, however much they may
differ in opinion from him.
When, in view of a war AvIth France, a provisional
army was organized in 1798, President Adams favored
the appointment of General Morgan to its command, sub
ject, of course, to the supreme command conferred upon
Washington. But General Washington insisted upon
that position being given to Hamilton, which Avas ac
ceded to with a bad grace by Adams, as he hated Hamil
ton most cordially.
Morgan died in Winchester on the 6th of July, 1802,
aged 65 years. DAVID HOLMES,
Born In Winchester, Avas the son of Col. Joseph
Holmes, of Frederick County, Va., and a brother of
Major Andrew Hunter Holmes, so distinguished during
the recent war with Great Britain for his talents and
high military qualities. He was killed In the battle of

184 Historical Pen SketcJies.
MackinaAv, on the northern frontiers, on the 4th of Au
gust, 1814, and a sword voted to his heirs by the General
Assembly of Virginia, in consideration of Ms gallantry
and good conduct. Also brother to Judge Holmes, Avho
occasionally presided in this judicial circuit, and brother
to Ann Holmes, married to Gen. Elisha Boyd, of this
county. He was a member of the 5th, 6th, 7th, Sth, 9th
and 10th Congresses.
At the close of his service in Congress he Avas, in 1809,
appointed by President Madison Governor of the terri
tory of Mississippi, and Avhen admitted into the Union
as a State he was elected Governor by the people. He
was subsequently, in 1820, elected a Senator in Congress
for six years, from the same State, but resigned before
the end of his term of service. He died in Winchester
on the 20 th of August, 1832.
Although twelve consecutive years a member of the
House of Representatives, and six in the Senate, the
records of Congress show nothing but his votes. It does
not appear that he ever submitted a motion or made a
remark in either body. And yet there must have been
something very remarkable in the intellect and bearing
of a man who could, with a different constituency, thus
pass so triumphantly through all the stages of political
life, without any of the advantitious aids of public
speaking. When elected to the 5th Congress he Avas a
resident of Shenandoah. Gen. Morgan then represented
Berkeley and Frederick In that Congress. In 1799 (6th
Congress) Holmes having removed back to Winchester,
was elected from the district of Berkeley and Frederick ;
so in the 7th Congress he represented this district.
When the district Avas re-arranged after the census of
1808, he represented Frederick and Shenandoah from
1803 to 1809, thus consecutively representing three dis
tinct districts of the State within the twelve years of Ms
seryice in the House.
Gov. Holmes was a man of modest and retiring habits.

Historical Pen SketcJies. 185
but of cai)tivating manners, and bore the reputation of
marked ability and of great integrity of character. He
was the uncle of David Holmes Conrad, uoav residing in
this county, after Avhom he was named.
GENERAL ELISHA BOYD
Was born in the County of Berkeley, at the eastern
base of the North Mountain, on the 6th of October, 1769.
Up to the age of 14 he enjoyed only the limited means
of education which the common country schools of that
period afforded. During that time he attended a small
school not far from the present site of Martinsburg. Our
thriving town was then a forest, and whilst its eligible
locality, its gushing springs and valuable Avater power
invited to such a destiny, few, if any at that time, con
templated it as a seat of population, manufactures and
trade. In 1785 he was entered as a student of Liberty Hall
Academy, (so baptised amidst the revolutionary fires of
1776,) in Rockbridge County, Va., a most excellent and
patriotic institution then under the rectorate of the Rev.
William Graham, largely patronized throughout the
south, and yielding a rich harvest of patriots and states
men. Although bearing the modest title of an academy,
it had all the attributes of a college, Avith power to hold
land, confer degrees, etc. Like the great; Virginia State
University, springing from the germ of "Albmnarle
Academy," it groAv Into "Central College," and then
reached its present grand proportions ; so did this spir
ited academy, expanding in dignity, reputation and Im
portance, first develop into "Washington College," and
recently— in 1871— into "Washington and Lee Universi
ty." Amongst those Avell known in our State who were
associated with young Boyd as schoolmates, Avere Dr.
Archibald Alexander, of Princeton, Hon. John Baker, of
Jefferson County ; Chancellor John Brown, Judge John
Coalter, Col. James McDoAvell and many others distin
guished for their worth, learning and ability.

186 Historical Pen Sketches.
He studied laAV in the office of Col. Philip Pendleton,
one of the earliest as well as one of the ablest lawyers
that ever qualified for practice in our courts. Mr. Boyd
was elected to the House of Delegates in 1797, with Rich
ard Baylor as his colleague, and also in 1796, with Wil
liam Lamon as his colleague. In 1798 he was chosen by
the County Court of Berkeley as its attorney for the
State, which office he continued to fill for forty years.
He was married in 1795 to Mary, the daughter of Major
Andrew Waggoner of revolutionary memory, by whom
he had one child, a daughter, Sarah Ann Boyd, who was
married to Philip C. Pendleton on the 25th of November,
1813. For forty years he gave Ms almost undivided time
to the practice of Ms profession and to attention to his
several farms in this county, varied at occasional inter-
A'als by military service, a seat in the House of Delegates
and Senate of the State, and in the Constitutional Con
vention. During all this time he had probably the
largest and most lucrative practice of any lawyer in this
section of Virginia.
Some years after the death of his first Avife he was, in
1806, married to Ann Holmes, daughter of Col. Joseph
Holmes and sister of Gov. Holmes and Major Andrew
Hunter Holmes. By her he had four children — Ann Re
becca Holmes, married to Humphrey B. Powell, of Lou
don County ; John E. Boyd, Rev. Andrew H. H. Boyd
and Mary, married to Charles J. Faulkner.
Mrs. Ann Boyd died on the 20th of July, 1819. An
eloquent and impressive funeral sermon Avas preached
over her remains by the Rev. J. B. Hoge, Avhich was
printed In pamphlet form, and copies of It are carefully
preserved by the family.
He had command of the 4th Regiment of Virginia mil
itia in 1814 during the war with Great Britain, when the
cities of Norfolk and Portsmouth were threatened by a
second attack of the British land and naval forces. The
Norfolk Herald, 1814, contains an interesting correspond-

Historical Pen SketcJies. 187
ence betAveen the officers of that regiment and Col. Boyd
when the term of service of that regiment was about to
expire. It bears date the 1st of August, at Camp Peach
Orchard. The officers say that they cannot permit the
occasion to pass by "without paying to Col. Boyd the
tribute of their highest respect and esteem." "They
have at all times felt confident that when the hour of
danger arrived that on his patriotism and courage they
could, with the utmost confidence, rely to lead them on
in defense of the country." They also take pride in de
claring that whatever military knowledge they have ac
quired is due to that strictness of military discipline^
which has uniformly characterized the 4th Regiment
since he had the command of it. "And If they ever
should again be called into the service of their country,
it is their wish that they should be placed under his com
mand." To this complimentary letter Col. Boyd re
plied, which is also published In the same paper. He
Avas subsequently elected a brigadier general by the Gen
eral Assembly of Virginia. He was a member of the
convention of 1829-30, which framed the first amended
Constitution of Virginia, serving in that body with Mad
ison, Monroe, Marshall, Giles, Tazwell, Leigh, Barbour,
Johnson and many other of the most distinguished men
of Virginia.
In the election which occurred after the adoption of
the "Amended Constitution" in 1880, he was chosen
without opposition, and by the unanimous vote of the
counties of Berkeley, Morgan and Hampshire, to a seat
in the Senate of Virginia.
He Avas commissioned a magistrate of the County of
Berkeley, in 1838, upon the resignation of his office of
State's attorney.
He was an earnest and sincere advocate for a reform of
the "Old Constitution" of Virginia, and for placing its
government upon a nio^e liberal and republican basis.
He Avas generally selecfed as Chairman of the county

188 Historical Pen SketcJies.
meeting held here, and a delegate to the State Reform
Convention. He took an active interest in the educational institu
tions of the county ; and had the principal agency in es
tablishing the Martinsburg Academy, not far from his
residence.. He was a third time married and then to Elizabeth
Byrd, of the Westover family, who died on the 16th of
November, 1839, leaving no issue.
Gen. Boyd departed this life on the 21st day of Octo
ber, 1841, and was buried in the family graveyard ad
joining Norborne Cemetery.
He was a man of vigorous mirid, and of indomitable
energy and perserverance. His power at the bar consis
ted in his unflaging attention to business, his thorough
caj)aclty to master details, and in his earnest, direct and
manly appeals to the common sense and intelligence of
courts and juries. He was a man of perfect system and
of extraordinary capacity for labor ; and he commanded
universal confidence by his stern and unbending integri
ty of character. HON. JOHN BAKER
Was born in Berkeley County, '.Virginia, about the
year 1769. He was entered as a student of Liberty Hall
Academy, Rockbridge County, Va., between the years
1783 and 1789, and among his fellow students of that
period, were Dr. Alexander, of Princeton, and General
Boyd of this county. He took up his residence in Shep
herdstown, on the Potomac River, then the most fiourish-
ing town in the loAver valley, and soon rose to the dis
tinction of an able and accomplished lawyer.
He was nominated by the Federal party, and elected
to the 12th Congress from the District of Berkeley, Jef
ferson and Hampshire, embracing the term from 1811
to 1818.
The Annals of Congress g\.\e wo veiiort of any speech

' Historical Pen SketcJies. 189
made by him, yet the Martinsburg Gazette, of January
the 24th, 1812, publishes some very forcible and eloquent
remarks made by Mm in Committee of the Whole, on
the 26th of December, 1811, in favor of pensioning the
surviving officers and soldiers of the Revolutionary War.
^he omission of this speech from the "Annals" is to be
explained by the fact, that it was delivered in the Com
mittee of the Whole, and no report, it seems, was usual
ly made at that time of speeches made in the Committee.
On the 4th of February, 1812, he presented a petition
from Jefferson County, asking Congress to make certain
improvements near Georgetown, that would give to the
farmers of the upper county a choice of markets for their
flour between Alexandria and Georgetown. It Avas sta
ted that 300,000 barrels of flour were then annually con
veyed to market by the river, in boats, and the trade
was increasing.
Mr. Baker was an ardent and uncompromising Feder
alist, and voted steadily with his party against a declara
tion of war against Great Britain, and all other measures
in aid of that belligerent movement. He was one of the
34 members of Congress who published, after the rising
of Congress, an able and elaborate defence of their op
position to the war. The Federalists of Berkeley were
much pleased with his votes and on the 12th of
August 1812, gave him a public dinner to express their
approval to his course in Congress. Among the toasts of
that occasion was the following :
"The war rashly and unnecessarily begun. May it be
speedily terminated by an honorable peace."
The sentiment announced in honor of Mr. Baker was
"A disciple of Washington and true to Ms principles."
In the summer of 1813 ShepherdstoAvn was visited by
a violent bilious epidemic, scarcely less fatal than the
yellow fever. Many of her most prominent citizens fell
under the terrible visitation. Among the number was
Hon. John Baker, who died on the 18th of August, 1828,

190 Historical Pen SketcJies.
leaving an estimable widow and an interesting family
of children. One of his daughters was married to T. W.
Gilmer, Governor of Virginia, and Secretary of the
Navy. Mr. Baker was universally respected for his high at-,
tainments as a lawyer — for Ms many virtues as a private
citizen — for his courage, firmness and consistency as a
politician. COL. EDMUND P. HUNTER
Was born in Martinsburg on the 24th of March, 1809,
and after enjoying the advantages of a collegiate educa
tion at Jefferson College, was admitted to the Berkeley
bar, in 1881. Shortly afterwads he became the proprie
tor and editor of the Martinsburg Gazette, and continued
as such until March 1845, when he was succeeded in the
control and management of the paper by James E. Stew
art, Esq.
On the 2nd of August, 1832, he was married to Martha
Crawford, daughter of Captain John Abell, an intelli
gent and highly esteemed farmer of Jefferson county.
The author of this sketch participated in the ceremony, as
first groomsman, and for some days enjoyed the kind
hospitality of that charming and interesting family.
This may be an appropriate occasion to notice very
briefly the history of that venerable journal. It was es-
tablised in 1801 by Nathaniel Willis, the father of the
distinguished poet, N. P. Willis and then called the
Berkeley Intelligencer. In 1808, he disposed of his in
terest in the paper to John Alburtis, who at first styled
it the Berkeley and Jefferson Intelligencer, but a news
paper soon making Its appearance in the recently formed
County of Jefferson, its name was changed to the Mar
tinsburg Gazette, which name it retained until the open
ing of our civil war, when its publication altogether ceas
ed. It Avas under the control of John Alburtis from 1803
until 1823, of Washington Evans from 1828 until 1833, of
Col. Edward P. Hunter, from 1838 to March, 1845 ; of

Historical Pen SJietcJies. 191
James E. Stewart and subsequently of Stewart & Gregg,
from March 1845 to March 1847. It then passed into the
hands of Charles H. Lewis, and lastly under the control
of A. T. Haupin, boasting, a continuous and prosperous
existence of sixty years.
In May 1832, he attended as a member the memorable
"Young Men's Convention," in Washington city, upon
AA'hich occasion Mr. Clay appeared before that body and
electrified it with one of his most eloquent and stirring
speeches. General Boyd having held the office of county attorney
for forty years, resigned it at tie March court, 1838,
when an animated contest took place for the succession,
between Edmund P. Hunter and David Holmes Conrad.
The power of appointment was then vested in the county
court, and the justices having been all summoned for
the purpose, a full court was present. The contest exci
ted unusual interest and for a time its result was deemed
doubtful. But Hunter obtained a majority of the votes
and was declared elected. It is unneceseary to say that
he filled the office for many years, not only with ability,
but with justice to the State and with judicious clemency
to the accused.
He enjoyed a high degree of popularity in the county,
and was elected a member of the House of Delegates of
Virginia, in 1834, 1835, 1839 and 1841. His course as a
member of that body gave great satisfaction to his con
stituents, as it was uniformly marked by dilligent atten
tion to their local interests, and by a faithful expression
in their sentiments on all the questions of State and na
tional policy.
He was Colonel of the 67th Regiment of Virginia mili
tia and took a deep interest in all the details of its or
ganization. When dressed in full military costume it
would be difficult to find a more striking realization of
imposing manhood than he presented.
He was an ardent and enthusiastic member of the

192 Historical Pen SketcJies.
Masonic order, and worthily rose to the highest honors
of the craft in Virginia.
He was in the latter portion of his life a sincere and
exemplary member of the Episcopal Church, and exhib
ited in his conduct, a thorough conviction of the truths
of revealed religion.
In September, 1854, the Asiatic cholera — that terrible
pestilence ''which walketh in darkness, and wasteth in
noonday" — struck the affrighted population of Martins
burg. There are those amongst us yet, who can well
remember the alarm and terror which its unwelcome ap
pearance excited here. Hundreds fled from the place
Avith precipitation. Many families Avhose wealth and
means ought to have caused them to stand by their
friends in their sad affliction, abandoned their homes for
the mountains and cities. The carnage was that of a
battle field. One hundred and eleven of our citizens fell
victims to its fury. Among the first of those who per
ished was the lamented Colonel Edmund P. Hunter, who
died on the 7th of September, 1854, in the 45th year of
his age.
Edmund P. Hunter was not endowed with any very
high or extraordinary quality of intellect, but he pos
sessed such a rare combination of excellent qualities,
both moral and intellectual, as more than compensated
for the want of any particular brilliancy of parts. He
was a man of sense and of good judgment ; lucid in his
mental perceptions, and capable of expressing his con
victions Avith clearness and force. Superior to all artifice
himself, he was proof against the arts of sophistry and
deception in others. He was a fair speaker and a sound
and manly reasoner, and these, with his open-heartedness
and honesty of character, made him always formidable
at the bar. He had something of his father's fondness
for broad humor and a joke, Avhich occasionally flashed
out in the trial of a case, but was more particularly ob
servable in the social circle. All his impulses were kind

Historical Pen SJietcJies. 193
and generous. His hospitality was proverbial. He was
a stranger to envy, hatred, malice, and all uncharitable-
ness. He was firm and steadfast in his friendship, and
ever outspoken and candid in the expression of his opin
ions. I dare not penetrate the domestic sanctuary and
speculate, to what extent, his loss must have agonized
that sacred circle ; but I can truly say, that his friends
and brethren of the bar have never ceased to lament the
day that deprived them of his joyous presence and at
tractive companionship. The sweet remembrance of the just
Shall flourish when he sleeps in dust.

GENERAL WILLIAM DARKE, A DISTINGUISHED WEST VIR
GINIA PIONEER.
\_By Virgil A.Lewis, of Mason City, W. Va.,in W. Va. School yournal.'}
In the settlement of the western wilderness, what is
now West Virginia can boast of pioneers whose names
are as honored and should occupy as high a place upon
the temple of fame as any that appear in the pages of
pioneer history. But alas ! many of them have been
lost in oblivion, while those known to us, some who
merit enduring monuments, scarce found a tomb. The
great Roman lyric poet informs us that, "The names of
the heroes who flourished before the days of Agamem
non were lost for want of a recording pen." This is true,
too, of many of those who first planted the standard of
civilization within the present confines of West Virginia.
What a valuable contribution to the literature of the
State would the record of their lives be ? But much is
irretrievably lost. Then let that which has survived the
lapse of a century, be carefully preserved and cherished
by a generation now enjoying the fruits of the toils and
privations of the men and women who reared the first
cabin homes withia the confines of the "Little Mountain
State." 13

194 Historical Pen SJietches.
On the bank of Middle Creek, a tributary of Opequon
River, in the southern part of'Berkeley County, stands
the little village of Darkesville, which was made a town
by an act of the Virginia Legislature December 7, 1791,
when Washington had served two years of his first term
as President of the United States. Who that now visits
the little town or sees dimly marked on the map of the
State, " Darkesville P. O." stops to enquire why it Avas
so called ? And who, that does, will not be surprised to
learn that it commemorates one of the most distinguished
names Avhich appear in frontier annals — that of General
William Darke.
He was born near Lancaster, Pennsylvania, in 1736,
and in 1741, when but five years of age, accompanied his
parents south of the Potomac, where they reared their
cabin home within a few miles of the present site of
Shepherdstown, noAV in Jefferson County, W. Va. Here
they were on the outmost boundary of civilization, while
to the west of them lay the vast, untrodden American
wilderness. Their nearest neighbors appear to have been
Thomas Shepherd, the founder of Shepherdstown, and
Robert Harper, whose name is preserved in that of Har
per's Ferry. Here, among wild solicitudes, young Darke
grew to manhood. Nature made him a nobleman ; he
was endowed with a herculean frame ; his manners
rough ; his mind was strong but uncultivated, and his
disposition was frank and fearless. From infancy he
was familiar with " war's dread alarm," for throughout
his youthful years he had listened to the recital of the
bloody drama then being enacted on the frontiers of
Virginia and Pennsylvania. This familiarity with the
story of savage warfare aroused Avithin him a spirit of
adventure and daring, and he longed to engage in ' ' strug
gles fierce and wild.'-' The opportunity soon came. In
the spring of 1755, General Edward Braddock arrived in
Alexandria, Virginia, with an army of two thousand
men, consisting of the 44th and 48 th Royal Infantry

Historical Pen SJietcJies. 195
Regiments. This force proceeded up the Potomac, and
at Fort Cumberland— now Cumberland City, Maryland
— was joined by a regiment of Virginia Provincials, in
the ranks of which were many Valley men, one of them
being William Darke, then but nineteen years of age.
The march into the wilderness began. Slowly the
splendid pageant moved on ; the long line of scarlet
uniforms contrasting strangely Avith the verdure of the
forest, while strains of martial music filled the air —
sounds so strange beneath the dark shades of the Ameri
can forest. It was the evening of the 8th of July, 1775,
when the English columns for the second time reached
the Monongahela, at a point ten miles from Fort Du-
quesne. On the next day a crossing was effected, and
once across the stream the order to march was given, but
scarcely was the column in motion when Gordon, one, of
¦the engineers, saw the French and Indians bounding
through the forest. At once a deadly fire was poured in
Tipon the English, who returned it with but little effect.
Braddock formed the regulars into squares, as though he
had been maneuvering in the fields of Europe, and thus
they were shot down in heaps. Of the twelve hundred
men who crossed the Monongahela, sixty-seven officers
and seven hundred privates were either killed or wound
ed. Braddock was among the fallen, and of all his aides,
Washington alone was left. Many Virginians were among
the dead, but a sufficient number were left — among
whom was William Darke — to form a line and cover the
xetreat of the shattered army back to Fort Cumberland,
whence Colonel Dunbar marched the regulars back to
Philadelphia, and the Virginians returned to their fron
tier homes, there to withstand a storm of warfare then
raging fiercer than ever before.
During the next fifteen years, Captain Darke Avas en
gaged in defending the Virginia frontier against the in
cursions of the savages, and associated Avith him in the
.same daring and noble work, Avere many destined to leave

196 Historical Pen Sketches.
a name behind them, and some to leave an impress upon
the age in which they lived. Among them were George
Washington, George Rogers Clark, William Clark and
Andrew Lewis.
When the storm of revolution came. Captain Darke
hastened to join the patriotic army in which, because of
meritorious service, he was soon promoted to the rank of
lieutenant colonel. He, together with the greater part of
his regiment, was taken prisoner at Germantown and de
tained on board a prisonship until November 1, 1780,
when he was exchanged and returned to his post in the
army. During the next spring he recruited his regiment
(known as the "Hampshire and Berkeley regiment") at
the head of which he marched to Tidewater, Virginia,
and was actively engaged during the siege of Yorktown,
at which place, on the 19th of October, 1781, he witness
ed the surrender of Cornwallis' army to the combined
forces of America and France. At the close of the Revo
lution, Colonel Darke, like his illustrious chieftain, re
turned to his home and engaged in agricultural pursuits
until called upon to serve his State in another capacity
than that of a soldier.
Soon it was seen that while the Articles of Confedera
tion had bound the country together in the time of war,
they were not adapted to the new order of things ; and
for the purpose of forming "a more perfect union," the
Federal Constitution was framed. Its firmest supporters
were the great men who had led the armies of the Re
public and achieved its independence.
The convention which assembled in Richmond in June,
1788, to ratify that instrument, was composed of some of
the most illustrious men of Virginia. The names of Mar
shall, Madison, Monroe, Mason, Nicholas, Henry, Ran
dolph, Pendleton, Lee, Washington, Wythe, Harrison,
Bland, Grayson and a host of others, shed a lustre on
the deliberations of that august body, which has never
been surpassed in the annals of the Old Dominion. The

Historical Pen SJietcJies. 197
debates display a degree of eloquence and talent, cer
tainly, at that time unequalled by any gathering of pub
lic men in this country. There sat General Adam Ste
phen, the founder of Martinsburg, and General William
Darke, as the delegates from Berkeley county. Both
were ardent Federalists, and both voted for the ratifica
tion of the Federal Constitution, despite the powerful
opposition at the head of which was the immol-tal
Henry. From the halls of the convention General Darke re
tired to his Berkeley county home, where he continued
his agricultural pursuits until the renewal of the Indian
war in 1791. With it came the call to arms and once
more General Darke, aroused by the military spirit within
him, entered the army as colonel commanding the Sec
ond Virginia Regiment. Descending the Ohio his force
reached Fort Washington — now Cincinnati — where the
army was collecting for invasion of the Indian county.
General Arthur St. Clair was placed in command, and in
October of the above named year the march into the
wilderness began.
On the 3rd of November the army encamped near the
present boundary line between Indiana and Ohio, on the
bank of the St. Mary's river, a tributary of the Wabash,
but which St. Clair believed to be a branch of the Miami
of the Lake. Here, at day break the next morning, it
was attacked on all sides by the combined strength of
the western tribes, at the head of which was the distin
guished chieftan Little Turtle, and for five dreadful hours
was continued a slaughter unparalleled in the annals of
forest warfare.
At the time of the attack Col. Darke's regiment,
together with tAvo battalions, occupied the second line,
and when the first gave way his regiment received almost
the entire shock of battle, the men executing every order
of command. During the dreadful hours which followed,

193 Historical Pen SJietcJies
he was the coolest man on that bloody and chaotic field,
and his escape seems to have been almost miraculous.
Possessed of a tall, striking figure, in full uniform and
mounted on horseback, he headed three desperate charges
against the enemy, in each of which he was a conspicu
ous mark. His clothes were cut in many places, but he
escaped with only a slight flesh wound. In the last charge
the ensign of his regiment, a youth of seventeen, was
shot through the heart and fell in the rear of the regi
ment, which was then returning to its original position.
An Indian, attracted by Ms rich uniform, sprang up
from the grass and rushed forward to scalp him. Col.
Darke, who Avas then at the rear of the regiment, sud
denly wheeling his horse, dashed at the savage and cleft
his skull Avith his broadsword. By this act he drew upon
himself the rapid discharge of more than a dozen rifles,
but escaped and joined his regiment, though forced to
leave the body of the ensign to the enemy. Among the
killed in this charge was Captain Joseph Darke, the
youngest son of the Colonel. At length the troops yet
alive began a rapid retreat which was covered by Darke' s
regiment to Fort Jefferson, a distance of thirty miles,
which they reached the same night. Here a council of war
was held and Colonel Darke urged the expediency of an
immediate attack, believing that the savages flushed with
victory were unprepared for a second contest, but he was
overruled. Stowed away among the archives in the office of the
Secretary of War at Washington, deposited there dur
ing the administration of that office by General Henry
Knox. "The Artillerist of Revolution," is a production
In Avhich is told a melancholy tale of sadness and woe.
It is the official report of General St. Clair, written after
the return of the shattered army to Fort Washington,
and bearing date November 9, 1791. In it he speaks at
length of the heroic bravery exhibited by his men when
hundreds of them were being shot down on the banks of

Historical Pen SJietcJies. 199
the St. Mary — falling under the fierce fire of an unseen
enemy— and then says :
"Colonel Darke was ordered to make a charge with a
part of the second line and to turn to the left flank of
the enemy. This was executed with great spirit, and at
first promised much success. The Indians instantly gave
way and were driven back three or four hundred yards ;
but for want of a sufficient number of riflemen to pursue
this advantage, they soon returned, and the troops were
obliged to give back in their turn. At this moment they
had entered our camp by the left flank, having pursued
back the toops that were stationed there."
From the same sad recital we are, told farther on, that
Col. Darke's Virginians made a second charge, in which
every commissioned officer of the regiment was killed
except three, and of them — Captain Greaton — was dan
gerously wounded. Of the Virginians Avho yielded up
their lives on that fatal field, eighty are said to have been
from Berkeley county, uoav in West Virginia. Long
years after the mournful story of their fall was rehears
ed around the hearthstones In the mountain homes of
West Virginia, old soldiers chanted "St. Clair's Defeat,"
which told in plaintive accents how
"We lost ui-ne hundred men on the banks of the St. JIary."
From Fort Washington Col. Darke returned to Berke
ley county, which he almost continuously represented In
the General Assembly until his death ' which occurred
November 20, 1801, when he found a grave near the spot
where early in life he had found a home.
Thus passed to rest a representative of the Pioneer
Age, which Avas to West Virginia what the Heroic Age
was to Greece. The men with whom he lived and acted
were as fearless and hardy a race as ever braved the per
ils of the wilderness. Time has Avaged a merciless war
fare upon the memorials of the age in which they lived,
and that which has survived should be placed beyond
the possibility of destruction.

CHAPTER IX.
SLAVERY— MODE AND MANNER OP PUNISH
MENT-FREEDOM.
ilSTORY records no data for the introduction of
Negroes, or slaves, that were held in bondage in
this county, earlier than the time of Lord Fairfax, about
the year 1788. It will be noticed that in several of Fair
fax' s grants, a number of slaves were included, at which
period he kept over a hundred at one time. They were
then sold and purchased at that day, in the same manner
as Ave Avould handle dumb brutes at the present day.
The earliest Court record concerning slavery, dates back
to April 17, 1772, when a commission was received by the
first justices who were appointed to transact the business
of the county, by the Governor of the Colony. The fol-
loAvIng is taken from the original copy, now on file in the
County Clerk's office :
" Virginia, set. : John, Earl of Dunmore, his majesty's
lieutenant and governor general of the colony and domin
ion of Virginia, and vice-admiral of the same. To Ralph
Wormley, Jacob Hite, Van Swearingen, Thomas Ruther
ford, Adam Stephen, John Neville, Thomas SAvearlngen,
Samuel Washington, James Hourse, William Little,
Robert Stephen, John Briscoe, Hugh Lyle, James Strode,
William Morgan, Robert Stogdon, James Seaton, Robert
Willis and Thomas Robinson, gentlemen of the County
of Berkeley ; greeting : Whereas, pursuant to an Act
of Assembly, made at a General Assembly, begun and
holden at the capitol, in the city of Williamsburg, in the
fifth year of his present Majesty's reign, entitled an act
for • amending the act entitled an act directing the trial
of slaves committing capital crimes, and for the more
effectual punishing of conspiracies and insurrections of

Slavery. 201
them, and for the better government of Negroes, Mulat-
toes and Indians, bond or free,' the governor, or com
mander-in-chief of this colony, for the time being, is
desired and empowered to issue commissions of Oyer and
Terminer, directed to the justices of each county, respect
ively, empowering them, from time to time, to try, con
demn and execute, or otherwise punish or acquit all
slaves committing capital crimes within their county :
Know ye, therefore, that I, the said John, Earl of Dun
more, by virtue of the powers and authorities to me given
by the said act, as commander-in-chief of this dominion,
do assign and empower you, the said [the above named
parties] or any four or more of you, whereof any of you,
the said [the above named parties] shall be one, justices,
in such manner, and by such ways and methods, as in
the said acts of the General Assembly, are directed, pre
scribed and set down, to enquire of and to hear and de
termine, all treasons, petit treasons, or misprisons thereof,
felonies, murders or other offences, or capital crimes
whatsoever, committed or perpetrated within the said
county, by any slave or slaves whatsoever ; for the better
performance whereof, you, or any four or more of you,
as aforesaid, are hereby required and commanded to meet
at the court house of the said county, when thereunto
required by the sheriff of the said county, for the trial of
any slave or slaves, committing any of the offences above
mentioned, and any such slave or slaves, being found
guilty, in such manner, and upon such evidence, as the
said acts of the General Assembly do direct, to pass
judgment as the law directs for the like crimes, and on
such judgment to award execution, or otherwise to ac
quit, as of right ought to be done, or to carry into execu
tion any judgment by you given on such trial. Given
under my hand, and the seal of the colony, at Williams
burg, the 17th day of April, 1772, In the twelfth year of
the reign of our Sovereign Lord, George the Third.
DUNJIORF."

202 Slavery.
The first offence committed and recorded is as follows :
"Phil, Sambo, Joe, Will, Jack, Sam, Anthony, Ede,
Hannah, Peggy, Betty and Peg, negroes, belonging to
Mathew Whiting, being bound to appear at this court
for stealing hogs, the property of John Cranes, appear
ed according to their master's recognizance ; on hearing
the same it is the opinion of the Court that the said Jack,
Joe, Phil and Will, are guilty of the said offence, and it
is ordered that the sheriff give them thirty-nine lashes
on their bare backs, at the public whipping-post, well
laid on, and that the others are not guilty ; ordered that
they be discharged."
To give the reader an Idea of the treatment toward
slaves, in this section of country, it may prove of inter
est to publish the following extract as told by Samuel
KercheA'al : ' 'My residence was in a neighborhood where
slaves and convicts were numerous, and where tortures
inflicted upon them had become the occurrences of almost
every day, so that they were viewed with indifference by
the whole population of the neighborhood as a matter of
course. I had not been long in my new habitation, be
fore I witnessed a scene which I shall never forget. A
convict servant, accused of some trivial offense, was
doomed to the whip, tied with his arms axtended up
wards to the limb of a tree, and a bundle of hickories
thrown down before him, which he was ordered to look
at, and told that they should all be worn out on him,
and a great many more, if he did not make confession of
the crime alleged against him. The operation then be
gan by tucking up the shirt over his head, so as to leave
his back and shoulders naked. The master then took
two of the hickories in his hand, and by forward and
backhanded strokes, each of which sounded like a wagon
whip, and applied AvIth the utmost rapidity and with Ms
whole muscular strength, in a few seconds lacerated the
shoulders of the poor miserable sufferer with not less
than fifty scourges, so that in a little time the whole of

Slavery. 203
his shoulders had the appearance of a mass of blood,
streams of which soon began to flow down his back and
sides. He then made a confession of Ms fault, one not
worth naming ; but this did not save him from further
torture. He put his master "to the trouble of whipping
him and he must have a little more." His trousers were
then unbuttoned and suffered to fall down about his feet ;
two new hickories were selected from the bundle, and
so applied, that in a short time his posteriors, like his
shoulders, exhibited nothing but laceration and blood.
A consultation was then held between the master and
the bystanders, who had been coolly looking on, in which
it was humanely concluded "that he had got enough."
A basin of brine and a cloth were ordered to be brought,
with which his stripes were wased, or salted as they
called it. During this operation the suffering wretch
writhed and groaned as if in the agonies of death. He
was then untied and told to go home, and mistress would
tell Mm what to do."
" It frequently happened that torture was inflicted
upon slaves and convicts In a more protracted manner
than that above described. When the victim of cruelty
was doomed by Ms master to receive the lash, several of
his neighbors were called on for their assistance. They
attended at the time and place appointed. A jug of rum
and water were provided for the occasion. After the
trembling wretch was brought forth and tied up, the
number of lashes which he was to receive Avas determined
on. Who should begin the operation was decided by
lot or otherwise, and the torture commenced. At the
conclusion of the first course the operator, pretending
great weariness, called for a drink of rum and water, in
which he was joined by the company. A certain time
was allowed for the subject of their cruelty "to cool,"
as they called it. When the allotted time had expired
the next hand took his turn, and in like manner ended
with a drink, and so on until the appointed number of

204 Slavery.
lashes were all imposed. This operation lasted several
hours, and sometimes half a day, at the conclusion of
which the sufferer, with his hands swollen with the cords,
was unbound and suffered to put on his shirt. His exe
cutioners, to whom the operation was rather a frolic than
otherwise, returned home from the scene of their labor
half drunk. Another method of punishment still more
protracted than this was that of dooming a slave to re
ceive so many lashes during several days in succession,
each whipping, except the first, being called " tickling
up the old scabs." Wagoners in the neighborhood have
been known to fasten the slaves, and, with a jug of rum,
amuse themselves by making the deepest scores on their
back for wages."
It has been stated by several in their writings that
through the Shenandoah Valley slaves were treated with
the utmost cruelty, and the further South it penetrated
the worse the barbarity.
The following is taken from an old court docket of
1792 : "At a court held in Berkeley County the 4th day
of November, 1792, for the examination of Nell, a Mulatto
Avoman slave, on suspicion of feloniously stealing from
Amos Davis one muslin sheet, one white linen sheet, one
girl's slipp, one flannel petticoat, a large shawl, one
white linen handkerchief ruffled, and one black lace tip-
pett. Present : John Cook, David Hunter, James Max
well, John Kerney and Nicholas Orrick, Gentlemen Jus-
tlces.i The Prisoner being led to the bar, and it being
demanded of her whether she was guilty of the facts
wherewith she stood charged or not guilty, said that she
was in nowise thereof guilty. Whereof sundry witnesses
Avere examined, on consideration of whose testimony,
and the circumstances attending the same, it is the opin
ion of the Court that she is guilty of petit larceny only.
Therefore It is ordered that the sheriff do take her to
the public Avhipping post and there give her thirty-nine

Slavery. 205
lashes on her bare back, well laid on, and then discharge
her." The old dockets show a number of similar cases, in
which both male and female were treated with the utmost
and most cruel barbarity.
I might here relate many other methods of torture,
such as the thumb screw, sweating, the birch, etc. ; but
it is enough — the heart sickens at the writing of such
cruelties. There are several incidents that occurred in
our present town, worthy of note, of which Capt. Wm.
Hoke, now living, is my informant :
For a long while a whipping post and pillory stood in
front of the Court House, (the present site) and was con
siderably used. It was afterwards removed to the East
side of the present jail, and stood between it and the
building adjoining, then used as the Clerk's office.
Capt. Hoke says he saw three negroes whipped here,
Hannah Henson, Taylor Piper and George Casion ; and
Jim Piper placed in the pillory. The pillory was built
above the whipping post, about ten feet from the ground
and had a small platform. It was composed of an upright
piece, and a top piece laid crosswise, in the shape of a
cross. In the top piece was a hole large enough to admit
the neck, while a smaller one on each side was made for
the two arms. Casion had committed a petit larceny of
some kind, and was doomed to the pillory for three or
four hours. The day was very rainy, and a number of
small boys formed a brigade, under the command of
Adam Cockburn, somewhat larger. They then proceeded
to rob the hen-nests that were expected to hatch in a
short while, and carried off the contents. With their
hats nearly filled with eggs, they marched to the pillory
and formed in a line in front. Here quite a lively time
was had by firing at Casion' s head, and occasionally,
when a rotten egg would strike, a loud yell went up.
In those days this was considered big sport, and partici
pated in by nearly all the boys of the neighborhood.

206 Slavery.
I asked the Captain whether the authorities made any
objection, to which he replied, "No, and I wouldn't
doubt but what the authorities put the boys up to it."
Many wars, bastiles, prisons, crosses, gibbets, tortures,
scourges and fires, in the hands of despots, have been
the instruments of spreading desolation and misery over
the earth. Those means of destruction, and their exten
sive use in all ages, are regarded as indices of the de
pravity and ferocity of man. From the bloodstained
pages of history, one now turns with disgust and horror,
and pronounces an involuntary anathema on the whole
of Ms race. The time came, however, in which the mas
ter and slave changed situations. The American Revo
lution was the commencement of a new era in the history
of the world. The issue of that eventful contest snatch
ed the scepter from the hands of the monarch, and
placed it, where it ought to be. In the hands of the
people. After the foreign war conducted by the United States
(which ended February 2, 1848,) the slavery question
was considerably agitated, and as years went by the dis
cussion of its merits increased in bitterness. As the
country grew rapidly in wealth and population, many
began to hope for some compromise that might preserve
the national peace, and deemed the abolition of slavery
expedient. As each presidential election went by the
issue became more clearly — that of slavery or freedom.
In 1860 Abraham Lincoln was elected President by the
Republican Party on a platform which, while leav
ing to each State the right to order and control its
own domestic Institutions, insisted that freedom was
the normal condition of all the territory of the United
States. On the other hand, the Southern States had
made the declaration that the election of a President
pledged to oppose the extension of slavery would be a
violation of their constitutional rights and a moral inva
sion of the slave States. In adherence to this declara-

Slavery. 207
tion, in December, 1860, South Carolina seceded from the
Union, and her example was foUoAved by Mississippi,
Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Texas, Virginia,
Arkansas, Tennessee and North Carolina. Shortly after,
(April following,) hostilities were opened by the Confed
erates and a severe conflict ensued. On the 1st of Janu
ary, 1863, President Lincoln issued the Emancipation
Proclamation. The Avar continued until April, 1865, in
the conduct of which nearly 1,800,000 Union soldiers had
been enlisted and a debt of $2,000,000,000 was incurred.
During this conflict the negro, (with all due respept to
his race) took Ms stand, and no sooner had the order "to
arms" been given than he had taken up in defense of the
Union. Numbers have fallen and shed their blood upon
the battle plain with a courage that far surpassed many
of the white soldiers.
A few weeks after his inauguration for the second
term, in April, 1865, President Lincoln was assassinated
at Washington, D. C, by J. Wilkes Booth, who was
hunted down and killed a few days later. Vice-Presi
dent Johnson became President, and the work of politi
cal reconstruction was begun. The Thirteenth Amend
ment to the Constitution, abolishing slavery within the
United States and places subject to their jurisdiction was
duly ratifled and proclaimed. In April, 1866, the Civil
Rights Bill was passed by Congress over the President's
veto, thus insuring protection to the freed slaves and giv
ing to the federal courts enlarged jurisdiction in the mat
ter. In the following June the Fourteenth Amendment
was passed, whereby equal civil rights were guaranteed
to all, irrespective of race or color.
At the present day this race of people is represented
in almost every trade and profession throughout the
country. Our county is largely inhabited by them,
among whom are to be found energy and enterprise.
Some OAvn considerable property and are well to do.
They have built and ably support churches and schools

208 Slavery.
of their own, and deserve much credit for the manner in
which they have prospered under such marked disad
vantages.

CHAPTER X.
LATE WAR OF THE REBELLION— BERKELEY
COUNTY'S SITUATION.
INTRODUCTORY REMARKS.
l^pISTORY Indicates that the old County of Berkeley
1^^ was well represented in the different Avars, for
nearly one hundred and thirty years past, which form so
important a part of the country' s history. First, in the
year 1755, the French and Indian war broke out, before
this county was formed, and the citizens of this section
shared in the disastrous defeat of General Braddock.
They afterwards served under George Washington, the
illustrious Colonel who built Fourt Loudon in the fall of
that year, and established himself at Winchester, Fred
erick County. A terrible conflict with the Indians fol
lowed, and these intrepid men took a gallant part, con
tinuing to serve their country against the frequent attacks
of the cruel savages, while their depredations lasted. In
1774, two years after the county was formed, a full rep
resentation of Berkeley's gallant sons shared in the
dearly bought victory over the Indian allies of the Brit
ish Government, at Point Pleasant. It occurred in the
Summer of that year, and was virtually the first battle of
the Revolutionary War. About eighty of the volunteer
soldiers from Berkeley, under Colonel Drake, were
killed in St. Clair's defeat by the Indians. The pages of
the country's history, during the Revolutionary War,
have been embellished and brightened by the heroic
deeds of many of Berkeley's patriotic sons, who aided
materially in the cause. The names of many of her gal
lant sons, who enlisted and served during the long, dark
days of that struggle, are not mentioned in history, but
14

210 War of the Rebellion.
its pages record their deeds. A number of them arose to
the highest distinction in the army. They were again
called upon in the War of 1812, and the county was rep
resented by about 200 men, in the troops which gained
©ne of the most brilliant victories of this Avar — at the
battle of Craney Island, June 22, 1818. In 1844-45, in
"the- Avar with Mexico, the valorous deeds of Berkeley
and Jefferson County men are an Important matter of
-history. Om tiie 17th day of April, 1861, Virginia passed the
•ordinance of secession at Richmond, and the people of the
State were called upon to take a decided stand upon one
^ide or other in this important issue. Credit must be
given those who, after a calm deliberation, and from
princixDles which their best judgment declared to be
righteous, took up arms, or exercised their best talents
in advocating the cause of the State. Too much credit
cannot be given to those who sundered the tender ties
that bound them to the homes of their nativity or adop
tion, sacrificed or endangered all their property interests,
and devoted their lives to the defense of the Union —
from a high sense of loyalty to the General Government.
" Greek met Greek," brother encountered brother, friend
stood opposed to friend upon many a hard-fought and
bloody battlefield on the soils of Berkeley and Jefferson
Counties, and southward in the valley. The adoption of
a neutrality was attempted by some, who, perhaps, were
the ones to suffer most in the sacrifice of property during
the Avar. They were looked upon with suspicion, and
little leniency was shown them by either party. The
character of the questions at issue were deemed to be too
grave and important to be regarded with indifference by
any citizen.
The minds of the grandsons of Berkeley Avere pervaded
in 1861, by the same spirit which animated the heroes of
1776 and 1812, and emulating their noble example, a full
representation volunteered AA'ho were v\'illlng to take up

War of tJie Rebellion. 211
arms, and, if need be, sacrifice their lives In defense of
the principles which they had adopted. These heroic
men enlisted on both sides. Men equal in intelligence
and courage, honesty of purpose and stubborn determi
nation, whose forefathers had fought side by side for the
independence of their country during the Revolutionary
War ; only differing, perhaps, in the circumstances and
influences which had educated them into a decided opin
ion upon the great questions then at issue. This state of
affairs Avas not by any means confined to Berkeley and
Jefferson Counties, as it was very general along the bor
der, and notably so here. These men, as heroes, met
each other In battle, and did not pause to consider
whether the quondam friend. In deadly array against
him, came there " through error, perversity, conscience,
weakness or chance," but duty of the hour which gov
erned them was to do or die for the cause AA'hich they
had espoused. GOING TO WAR.
Berkeley and Jefferson Counties saw much of the Avar,
being located at the northern portal of the Shenandoah
Valley — that bloody arena where so many tremendous
conflicts occurred. Details of the marching and counter
marching of armies, and their frequent engagements,
which are incident to this locality, can be read In many
a well-written work, and no attempt will be made to
record them here in full, but an account of some of the
interesting occurrences will be given.
The following reflections of "A Virginian," as he
leaves the home of his boyhood, to take up arms in de
fense of Ms country, against his native State, but echo
the sad thoughts entertained by thousands of others,
who, through a lofty devotion to principle, abandoned
their homes and cut asunder the closest ties of kindred
and friendship, to follow where their duty called them.
From the front porch of a house at Falrview, (on the
turnpike,) can be had a beautiful and comprehensive

212 War of tJie Rebellion.
view of the Shenandoah Valley, extending as far up as
the Massanutten Mountain, above Front Royal and
Strasburg. The toAvns of Willlamsport, Martinsburg,
and Shepherdstown are distinctly visible, while the sites
of Harper's Ferry, Charlestown and Winchester can be
distinguished. Upon this azure map the whole circuit of
the late campaign could be satisfactorily traced. An old
resident living near by stated to the author that he often
visited this spot, and that "each field, each house, each
clump of trees, recalled some friendly face, some youth
ful sport, some genial hour of past delight. There, from
childhood to maturity, I had lived, opulent in friend
ships and social sympathy. That fair valley was now
the land of mine and my country's enemies ; among them
I could see whole squadrons of my kindred and former
friends — the kindly and generous companions of the
olden times. It mattered little to me now how they came
to be there— through error, perversity, conscience, weak
ness or chance. The Potomac that flowed between us
now, rolled a fathomless gulf of blood and fire. On this
side I was alone. There was neither friend nor kinsman,
nor neighbor to Avhom I might turn for countenance or
counsel in those hours of soul-weariness, which oppress
one whose individuality is too heavily taxed. On this
side I found none nearer to me than the acquaintances of
yesterday, marching together as champions of a common
cause, but strangers to the heart. I felt the weight of
my position. I was an exile indeed — poor, weary and
dispirited. Yet I had taken m.y course after calm and
full deliberation. I had asked no man's counsel, and
confided my conclusions to one alone."
FIRST APPEARANCE OF "GRIM VISAGED WAR" IN
MARTINSBURG.
On the 13th of June, 1861, General Johnston, Avho in
command of the Confederate Army of the Shenandoah,
had occupied Harper's Ferry, after burning the railroad
bridge and other property at that place, retreated to

War of tJie Rebellion. 218
Winchester. At this time. General Patterson Avas ad
vancing, with his army, from Pennsylvania, en route
through Maryland, for Virginia ; General McClellan was
also on his way, through Western Virginia, toward the
valley. General (afterward "Stonewall") Jackson (in
anticipation of the arrival of the Federal troops) was
sent, with his brigade, to the neighborhood of Martins
burg, to aid Stewart's cavalry in destroying what they
could of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad stock, and
thus check the advance of these opposing armies.
What was known as the "Colonnade Bridge," a beauti
ful structure, erected in Martinsburg by the company as
an especial compliment to the city, Avas at that time des
troyed. The citizens who witnessed it avIII never forget
this, the first appearance in the city of the terrible reali
ty of the war which followed. The bridge was fired one
calm and beautiful evening, about eight o' clock, and the
saddening effect upon the minds of the large concourse
of people who Avitnessed the destruction Avas a lasting
one. After the burning of the bridge, the troops, by
fire, partially destroyed thirty-five large locomotives that
stood in the yards west of the bridge. This Avas a sad
error on the part of the Confederates, for there was noth
ing to prevent their running these engines to Winchester,
via Harper's Ferry and the Winchester and Potomac
Railroad. Some time afterward, these same engines had
their wheels furnished with broad iron tires, by the Con
federates, and Avere hauled a distance of twenty-tAvo
miles, over the Martinsburg and Winchester turnpike to
the latter place, Avhere they Avere put in repair and used.
Thirty-two horses were recjuired to each engine, to ac
complish this feat, and the task of getting them up the
hills, through the streets of the city, and on to the
straight road to Winchester was accompanied wit'h great
difficulty. At the same time the machinery of the rail
road shops was taken, and used in the arsenals at the
South during the Avar. It Is a remarkable fact that this

214 War of tJie Rebellion.
machinery and all the locomotives but one were regain
ed by the company after the close of the Avar.
ARRIVAL OF PATTERSON'S TROOPS IN THE CITY.
On the 2nd of July, 1861, Patterson and his troops
forded the Potomac at Willlamsport, and advanced, by
the main pike, towards Martinsburg, and Jackson, at the
same time, fell back toward Falling Waters, over the
main road leading from Martinsburg to that village. On
the morning of the 3rd of July, a company of Patterson' s
infantry encountered a small force of cavalry near a
school house, a few miles north of Martinsburg, where a
skirmish ensued, and one of the Confederates was killed,
the balance retreating. In the afternoon, the whole col
umn marched into Martinsburg, amid demonstrations of
joy and welcome on the part of the great majority of her
citizens. A detachment of troops was sent forward to
reconnoitre, and Jackson was encountered in a position
where he had formed his men in line of battle, with four
guns directly across the turnpike, along which the for
mer were advancing. A sharp encounter here ensued,
which lasted about an hour, when Jackson continued his
retreat, joining the main army under Johnston, at Win
chester. An order which had been Issued to Patterson to ad
vance to Winchester and give battle to the Confederates
under Johnston, Avas countermanded, and on the 9th of
July, the former renewed a previous application to trans
fer Ms army to Leesburg, making that his base of opera
tions, which was granted, but an order from General
Scott directed Mm to continue demonstrations iu front
of Winchester, until after the battle of Manassas, Avhich
was expected to occur on the 16th. On the 15th, Patter
son' s army i^roceeded to Bunker Hill, where it remained
two days ; thence to Charlestown, where they remained
in position until the 23rd, when they marched to Har
per's Ferry, and, the time of the three months men hav
ing expired, they returned home, many of them to re-

War of the Rebellion. 215
enlist for the Avar. It was on the 23rd, that the news,
so disheartening to the Union Cause, of the defeat at Bull
Run was received. AFTER THE BATTLE OF MANASSAS.
One of the saddest nights of the Avar, to many of the
citizens, AA-as soon after the first battle of Manassas. Two
brothers and a cousin fell in that fight, at almost the
same moment, and side by side. The brothers (Holmes
and Tucker Conrad) were the sons of an old and esteem
ed citizen — a lawyer of rare ability — Holmes Conrad,
Esq. Previous to Virginia's act of secession, Mr. Conrad
had taken an active part in favor of adherence to the
Union, and made a most eloquent and stirring speech in
the Court House, which had great influence, and wa^
afterward published in the National Intelligencer. His
two sons, both quite young, left their home without the
knoAvledge of their father, and nearly the first news
which reached him concerning them was the intelligence
of their death. One of the participants in the last sad
rite says : "We burled them, with their cousin. Captain
Peyton R. Harrison, together In one tomb
"By the struggling moonbeam's misty light ;
Our lanterns dimly burning !"
"This circumstance is worthy of mention, as the name
Avas a beloved one in our country, and, although Ave lost
many noble ones, on both sides, none more fair, bright
and promising than these."
A great awe seemed to have cjuelled the spirits of the
people at this time.
Those who had deceived themselves, or had been de
luded by others into the belief that the dismemberment
of the nation Avould be accomplished without bloodshed,
now began to realize the true character of the contest
that was opening. In the first ebullition of their zeal,
the elite of the Virginia youth had rushed to the field,
many serving as privates in the ranks. The slaughter

216 War of tJie Rebellion.
at Manassas fell heavier, proportionately, upon this class
than any other. In many an aristrocratic mansion, hor
ror and mourning veiled the joy of victory for a season.
GENERAL BANKS' RETREAT.
On the 25th of May, 1862, occurred Banks' disastrous
defeat by Jackson, at Winchester, and his retreat, via
the Martinsburg and Winchester turnpike, to the Poto
mac. Those who witnessed the rush of the panic-stricken
troops through Berkeley and Jefferson counties will nev
er forget it. Hundreds of wagons, loaded with commsi-
sary, quartermaster, medical, ordnance, and other mili
tary stores and supplies, were scattered all along the
route, greatly to the delight of many, who, on account
of the difficulty of obtaining them, had been living on
short rations, and with a scant supply of blankets and
clothing. Notwithstanding the efforts of the retreating
troops to destroy them by burning the wagons, many
of these supplies fell into the hands of those who no
doubt badly needed them. For some time afterward,
the skill of the dyer was called into requisition, to ob
literate the tell-tale material blue, and hardtack became
a popular article of diet. This celebrated retreat occur
red on Sunday — a day that seemed destined as a season
of excitement in this section. Early in the morning,
cavalrymen made their appearance in squads of two or
three, and about 11 o'clock a. m., four-horse Avagons,
carrying pontoons, filled AvIth absconding negroes, SAvept
through the streets at a full gallop. It Avas one of the
most disgraceful scenes of the war. In due time, the
General and Ms staff arrived, and dismounting at the
principal hotel in town, Avent into the parlor. Looking
into a mirror (the first glimpse, no doubt, which he had
caught of himself for several days) Banks remarked :
"Well, General, you do look Avorsted."
THE MARTINSBURG HOME GUARDS.
D. II. Strother, (Porte Crayon), In Ms "Personal Rec
ollections of the war," contributed to Harper's MoniJily,

War of tJie Rebellion. 217
has the following to saj', regarding this quasi- mili
tary band, that was organized in the'spring of ' 61 : ' 'Not
to fall behind the times, the citizens had formed a vol
unteer Home Guard, for the purpose of police duty and
watching over the general Avelfare of the community.
They kept their headquarters at the Court House, sat
up of nights, arrested each other, and eA'erybody they
found prowling about. It Avas shrewdly suggested that
the peace of the lonely village might have been better
preserved if everybody went quietly to bed and minded
their oavu business. But, in times of revolutionary ex
citement, people cannot keep quiet, even in view of their
own safety, and along the border every man seemed to
suppose he had the right to constitute himself a special
constable, to arrest and cross question every other man
he met, with whose business he AA'as unacquainted. One
night, Dick Ganoe, a harmless and well-meaning citizen
of the Home Guard, arrested a stranger who was riding
into town from the direction of Winchester. Dismount
ing his prisoner, Ganoe led the Avay to the Court House,
lounging along with his, musket under his arm, and his
hands in his pockets, as was Ms wont. The stranger,
who followed in apparent acquiescence, quietly drew a
pistol and blew the citizen's brains out, then mounted,
and continued his jouriiey northward. This shot also
terminated the volunteer labors of the Home Guards.
It abdicated, and was heard of no more."
EFFECT OF THE WAR ON THE CITY.
Business was almost entirely suspended iu Martins
burg during the first years of the v;ar, and at times a
great deal of distress prevailed, for lack of the necessa
ries of life, Avhicli were hard to obtain. Considerable
damage was done to buildings, but not as much as would
naturally be supposed, considering the fighting that was
done here, and the length of time the toAvn was occupied
by soldiers. From the commencement of the war to the
close, there were camps of either Union or Confederate

218 War of tJie Rebellion.
soldiers in the town. Every church and public building
was used as barracks, hospital or stable. The court house
was continually occupied by troops, during Avhich time
valuable papers and records were ruthlessly destroyed.
This unwarranted act has caused endless trouble, and it
is doubtful if the effects of it can ever be remedied.
Fourteen volumes of records of court proceedings and
deeds, and many valuable papers are missing from the
office of the Clerk of the County Court, and numerous
others are badly mutilated.
A great many self-appointed detectives, or spies, ex
isted at this time, who found excellent opportunities to
gratify some petty spite against a neighbor, and at the
same time cover themselves with glory and obtain great
credit for patriotism either in the Union or Confederate
cause, as the case might be. A short experience with
these enthusiastic reformers, however, and the investiga
tion of cases reported to them, led the officers In authori
ty, upon both sides, to treat them with deserved con
tempt. It frequently occurred that a change of occupants
would occur In the city several times In one day. At one
time, "Hampton's Brigade" (then under command of
General "Jeb" Stuart,) numbering about 3,000 cavalry,
came Into toAvn, and at noon they were driven out by the
cavalry under General Kilpatiick ; the latter was in turn
dislodged in the evening, and forced to retreat across the
Potomac at ShepherdstoAvn, fighting all the A\'ay — a dis
tance of ten miles. Quite a remarkable occurrence hap
pened upon this occasion. The only piece of artillery
that Kilpatrlck had Avith him was commanded by the
grandson of the late Philip C. Pendleton, then one of the
oldest and most respected citizens of the town. It was
planted on the eminence which is now occupied by Green
Hill Cemetery, and the first shot that AA'as aimed by the
young man at the Confederates, as they retreated south-
Avard, penetrated the cone of the roof of his grand

War of the Rebellion. 219
father's house, without, however, doing any material
damage. The citizens had many shells left Avith them as
mementos, during the frequent skirmishes that happen
ed about the town. One of them penetrated the walls
of the Catholic Church, without exploding, where it re
mained until several years after the Avar, before it was
removed. CARE OF THE SICK, WOUNDED AND DEAD.
After the battles of Antietam and Gettysburg, Martins
burg became one grand hospital. Many of the churches
were occupied in this way ; in many instances, their in
teriors were completely destroyed. The citizens were as
loyal as any situated near the border, andUnion soldiers
were as kindly treated, and as faithfully nursed, when
wounded, sick and suffering, as many of them could
have been in their own homes, and the same kindness,
was shown to those of the Confederate army. There are
many of them living to-day, who bless the good citizens
of Martinsburg for their unselfish acts of kindness at this
time. The honored dead of the contending armies lie
buried in the city cemeteries, and large numbers Avere
committed to their last resting place with the beautiful,
sublime service of the Episcopal church. At one time,
the rector of Trinity church was the only minister in
town, and officiated for all parties for whom his services
were required. The German Evangelical Church was
composed of Germans, or those of that descent, many of
whomAverein the United States service. On the even
ing of February 13th, 1863, Captain G. W. Hicks, of the
Ninth Virginia Infantry, arrived in the city, as escort of
a government train from Winchester, and quartered in
the church building OAvned by this society valued at
$3,500. Through the carelessness of the occupants, it
caught fire and Avas burned to the ground.
THE BLACK HORSE CAVALRY.
The renoAvned Black Horse Cavalry figured frequently

220 War of tJie Rebellion.
during the war In Berkeley and Jefferson counties. Their
organization AA'as commenced in Fauquier County, Vir
ginia, June 18th, 1859. The first service'wMch the com
mand Avas ordered to perform was to report to Governor
Henry A. Wise, at Charlestown, West Virginia, at which
point were being collected the volunteer companies of
the State, to insure the execution of John Brown and Ms
associates. A detachment of this company escorted the
prisoners to the place of execution, while the rest of the
command was employed in keeping the streets clear, for
it was feared, even to the last moment, that an attempt
would be made to rescue Brown. The day before the or
dinance of secession was passed by Virginia (April 16th,
1861,) orders were received by Lieutenant Robert Ran
dolph, commanding the Black Horse Cavalry, and by
Captain Turner Asliby, of the " Mountain Rangers," to
assemble their respective commands and proceed at once
to Harper's Ferry for the purpose of capturing the stores
and munitions of war stored there. After remaining there
for several days on picket duty they were ordered on
similar service to Berlin Bridge. They took a prominent
part in the battle of Manassas, and soon afterward were
selected as the body-guard of General Josep)h E. John
ston. Jackson was accompanied by this cavalry in his
expedition to Willlamsiwrt,. Martinsburg and Harper's
Ferry. They continued in the service during the entire
war, and became renowned for their exploits.
Considerable time and labor has been given to deep
researches concerning our military organizations during
the late war. The above mentioned cavalry was organ
ized in Fauquier County, but figured prominently in
Berkeley. The different companies organized in this
county, with the names of the participants, happenings,
etc., are given bglow. Among the names Included are
mostly those Avho enlisted at the time of organization.
A number of our men enlisted in other companies, but
in nowise pertaining to a Berkeley organization.

War of the Rebellion. 221
COMPANY C, THIRD REGIMENT, WEST VIRGINIA CAVALRY
—BERKELEY COUNTY.
^United States Army.]
The members of this company were enlisted in the
United States service, mainly from Martinsburg and
Berkeley County. This regiment was organized by the
consolidating of a number of companies that had already
seen much service, at CharlestoAvn, West Virginia, in
December, 1863. From there they marched to Parkers
burg, and thence were transported to Martinsburg. Here
it began its summer campaign under Sheridan, through
all of which it lollowed him, participating in all its bat
tles and skirmishes. The history of the regiment is
Avritten upon every page that records the conflicts and
victories of the Middle Military Division. Its story can
not be more eloquently told than in the simple list of
battles it has fought. Among the names upon its ban
ners are: Carter's farm, Newton, Winchester, Bunker
Hill, Martinsburg, Hagerstown, Hancock, Moorefield,
Martinsburg (second,) Bunker Hill (second,) Buckles-
town, Bunker Hill (third,) Stevenson Depot, Winchester
(second,) Fisher's Hill, Mount Jackson, Brown's Gap
(two fights,) Milford (two fights,) Front Royal and Mount
Jackson (second.) The enlistments were as follows :
Captain, Peter Tabler.
.First Lieutenant, John E. BoAvers.
Second Lieutenant, Albert Teets.
First Sergeant, Jas. W. Kneedler.
Second Sergeant, John Falkensteln.
Third Sergeant, Michael Ferrel.
Fourth Sergeant, Sylvester RIdgway.
Fifth Sergeant, Edmond Wagely.
Sixth Sergeant, Wm. Clendening.
Seventh Sergeant, Levi J. Welshaus.
Eiglith Sergeant, Edward N. Loy.
First Corporal, Levi F. Miller.
Second Corporal, Adam Wolf.

222 War of tJie Rebellion.
TJiird Corpioral, James O. Ross.
FourtJi Corporal, Alex. Horner.
Fifth Corporal. Ulysses Davis.
SixtJi Corporal, William Deets.
SeventJi Corporal, Benj. F. Statter.
EightJi Corporal, Franklin Spencer.
Bugler, David Kiser.
Bugler, Alfred Porter.

Anderson, Eri.
Anderson, Jas. W.
Allison, John.
Butt, David.
Burch, George.
Barthlow, William.
Bricker, Levi.
Butt, William.
Colbert, Jesse.
Colbert, Clarkson.
Cross, John A.
Cockran, Hiram.
Cockran, Charles C.
Crowe, James B.
Deets, James.
Fravell, John.
Fizer, John T
Frushour, Wm, A.
Fleming, Wm.
Gardener, John W.
Hart, Jacob H.
Hays, Jos. H.
Hower, Edmund.
Homer, Robert.
Jenkins, George.
Kline, John W.
Kiser, Isaiah.
Kiser, John.

PRIVATES. Lamaster, Theodore.
Lamaster, John H.
Lazzel, Wm. G.
Long, George.
Miller, Isaac.
Myers, Wm. C.
Myer, William.
Murphy, John W.
Murijhy, James W.
Murray, Samuel E.
Morgan, Edmund.
Morgan, Elijah.
Morgan, Robert.
Myers, Samuel.
Myers, Jacob.
Novington, John W.
Piles, Edgar C.
Price, George L.
Ridenour, James.
Ridenour, Charles.
Racey, William.
Ramsburg, Elijah.
Reynolds, Elijah.
Stansburry, H. R.
Stafford, John.
Shrout, AndroAv J.
Smith, John.
Stoneking, Lewis S.

War of tJie Rebellion.

223

Stoker, Thomas.
StraWson, H. W.
Street, William J.
Teets, Elisha.
Tichnal, Samuel.
Taylor, James.
Taylor, Samuel H.

Taylor, Ephriam.
Vanansdal, Jerry.
Woodward, Chas. W
Wise, Thomas.
Wister, Benj. K.
Welsh, Patrick P.
Welsh, Thomas S.

Benson, Joseph A.
Shaw, William B.

RESIGNED. Stahl, Jonathan.
Wade, Alexander.
PROMOTED.
Conger, Seymour B., to Perry, James S., to First
Major, .July 29, 1863. Lieutenant.
DISCHARGED.

Morgan, Enoch.
Perry, James S.
PuUin, William.
Prossman, William.
Roby, Middleton,
Rude, George AV.
St. Clair, James P.
Shaffer, Balser.
Statler, Andrew J.

Barnes, Lemuel.
BarthloAV, Joshua.
Curry, AlonzoH.
Deen, George W.
Green, David S.
Hart, Jacob.
Kines, W. E.
Mercer, Marshall.
McKinney, Alex.
Myers, Enos. TRANSFERRED.
Awman, Benjamin. Shaffer, David.
Hickman, Gilaspie. DESERTED. Smith, Mathias B.
Volgarmott, Moses.
CASUALTIES.
Dilly, John R., killed in action May 10, 1864.
Hoffman, John E., killed in action Nov. 24, 1863.
Johnson, Moses, died Oct. 9, 1862.
Light, Isaac J. killed in action April 24, 1862.
Mock, James M., " " Aug. 7, 1864.

Butler, Thomas J.
FItzpatrick, David.

224 War of tJte Rebellion.
Pitcher, John AV., killed in action Aug. 7, 1864.
Piles, Osborne H., died October 9, 1862.
Pitcher, Chas. W., died Nov. 19, 1864.
Siler, Philip, killed in action Aug. 7, 1864.
Slater, Henry M., killed in action May 10, 1864.
Teets, John, " " " Oct. 11, 1863.
Yoho, Ezra, " " " Aug. 7, 1864.
COMPANY B, FIRST REGIMENT, VIRGINIA VOLUNTEERS-
BERKELEY COUNTY.
[ United states Army.]
This organization Avas mustered in under Col. Ward
Lemon, and organized at Willlamsport, Md., May 17th,
1861. At the time of its organization it was composed
entirely of Berkeley County citizens. The company was
uniformed at Willlamsport, where it first entered service
to guard a wagon train to Martinsburg. They next re ¦
turned to the former place, from Avhence they were or
dered to Hancock, Md. Upon crossing the river they
Avere attacked by Ashby's Cavalry, when Lieutenant
Hancock was wounded.
The next order received was to proceed to Dam No. 4,
and upon their arrival they learned that the Confederates
were robbing the store of A. McQuilken, at Hard Scrab
ble. A number of the company were detailed and cross
ed the river, wounding two men and capturing a horse.
From here they again returned to Hancock, where they
had several skirmishes. From Hancock they were or
dered to Orleans Road, thence back to Willlamsport,
thence to Shaffer's Mill on the river, thence to Falling
Waters, and from here to Baltimore, Avhere they arrived
on the 5th day of February. Three days afterAvard they
were transferred to the 3d Maryland Regiment, under
command of Col. David D. Witt. From Baltimore they
Avere transferred to Harper's Ferry, on the 23d of May,
1862, and after a skirmish on Bolivar Heights, they fell
back to Maryland Heights. From here they proceeded
to Kernstown, thence to Cedar Creek, thence back to

War of tJie Rebellion. 225
Warrington, Va. At the latter place Captain Joseph
Kerns and Lieutenant James Fayman tendered their res
ignation. The company was them ordered to Little
Warrington, Va. Among the principal battles fought
upon its banners are : Cedar Mountain, Antietam, Win
chester, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Three Days
Fight at Gettysburg, Raccoon Ford, and others. Shortly
after these battles the company was divided — one half
serving under Grant, and the other half under Sherman,
until the surrender at Appomattox. The entire company
had bravely participated in all the important fights
throughout the war, and history records many valorous
deeds of this company, though their names are not men
tioned. Berkeley County was most ably represented, and
many of her noble and heroic sons have died upon the
field in the defense of their country. Like those of the
contending enemy, they believed their principles to be
just, and took up arms against friend or foe. As far as
the roll can be ascertained from surviving members, it is
given as follows :
Captain, Joseph Kerns.
First Lieutenant, James Fayman.
Second Lieutenant, John Lowman.
First Sergeant, D. J. Weaver.
Second Sergeant, Wm. Smith.
Third Sergeant, Robert Lowery.
Fourth Sergeant, Jerome E. Pompeii.
First Corporal, M. H. Harman.
Second Corporal, Robt. Thompson.
Third Corporal, Harry Strausbaugh.
Fourth Corporal, J. Lewis Cleary.
Fifth Corporal, Benj. Lowery.
PRIVATES.
Ashkettle, J. Bender, Jno.
Adams, Frisky. Bishop, Jno.
Batch, C. Burriss, E.

S26

War of tJie Rebellion.

Ball, Jno.
Bateman, C.
Brown, Wm.
Clevinger, R:
Coyle, James.
Colbert, Geo.
Cann, P.
dlaspey, James.
Dickerhoff, Isaac, killed.
Dailey, Arthur.
Denan, A.
Ditman, Jno.
Davis, Joseph.
Davis, Samuel, killed.
Ebaugh, C.
Espenhine, G.
Fahey, Thomas.
Finigan, Patrick.
Gagle, John.
GIser, Christopher.
Goodman, John.
Grace, Israel.
Grindes, R.
Harker, C.
Hipper, A., killed.
Henry, R.
Harman, Hewitt.

Henlane, Henry.
Ingless, Joseph.
Ingram, John.
Israel, Edward.
Johnson, John.
Jones, James.
Johnson, Wm., hung.
Killgore, C.
Korcross, John.
Lincoln, C.
Lupman, Daniel, killed.
Lowery, Benj., killed.
Lowery, Robert.
Murphy, Denis.
Mathews, Frank.
Martin, John.
Prescit, B. F.
Perkins, C.
Potter, R.
Shirk, John.
Sadler, John.
Smith, David.
Sisco, John, killed.
Sisco, Joseph.
Thompson, Samuel.
Unger, John.
Vanmetre, Isaac.

COMPANY " D," SECOND REGIMENT VIRGINIA INFANTRY—
"BERKELEY BORDER GUARDS."
[Confederate States Army.]
Under the supervision of J. Q. A. Nadenboush, Esq.,
this company was organized October 31st, 1859. It was
composed almost entirely of Berkeley men, who volun
teered their services in defence of what they deemed a
just cause. This company acted on duty during the
Brown raid, and stood guard at Charlestown during the

War of the Rebellion. 227
hanging of Brown's men, on the 16th of March, 1860,
It was first ordered into service by the Governor of Vir
ginia, to report at Harper's Ferry on the night of April,
1861. It participated in all the important battles fought
by the famous "Stonewall Brigade," and ably represent
ed its county. Among its ranks were Berkeley's most
gallant and heroic sons. Like all the different companies ,
the author has been unable to obtain the roll accurately,
and with the assistance of surviving members, gives it at
the time of organization, as follows :
Captain, J. Q. A. Nadenbousch, wounded at second
battle Manassas, August, 1862, — promoted Colonel Sept.
17th, 1862.
First Lieutenant, P. S. Cunningham.
Second Lieutenant, Robt. W. Hunter, promoted Ad
jutant-General. TJiird Lieutenant, Peyton R. Harrison, killed at first
battle Manassas, July 21st, 1861.
First Sergeant, Maj. Israel Robinson, resigned to take
his command in 67th* Virginia Militia Regiment.
First Sergeant, Jno. A. Dugan, wounded at first battle
Manassas, July 21st, 1861.
Second Sergeant, C. W. Welsh.
TJiird Sergeant, E. L. Hoffman, wounded at battle of
Kernstown, March 23rd, 1862, — promoted Captain.
Fourth Sergeant, S. H. Fowler.
FiftJi Sergeant, Holmes E. Conrad, killed at first battle
of Manassas, July 21st, 1861.
First Corporal, E. Ryneal.
Second Corporal, Wm. Kline, promoted Sergeant, Aug.
4th, 1861.
Third Corporal, T. Bentz. PRIVATES.
Armstrong, Jno. S., wounded at first battle Manassas,
July 21st, 1861.
Albin, Wm. B.
Austin, Thos.

228 War of the Rebellion.
Albin, James, killed at second battle Manassas, Aug.
27th, 1862.
Blake, V. B.
Brady, Peter.
Bell, Alfred.
Bales, Adam S.
Boyd, B. R.
Brocies, Wm.
Buchannon, Thos., wounded at first battle Manassas,
July 21st, 1861.
Barnett, A. J. , killed at battle Mine Run, November
27th, 1863.
Carlysle, Jas. A.
Cline, David A., promoted Corporal August 4th, 1861.
Conrad, H. Tucker, killed at first battle Manassas,
July 21st, 1861.
Cage, James.
Custer, Ephraim G., promoted Sergeant Aug. 4th, 1861.
Copenhaver, T.
Chambers, R. D.
Chambers, Jno. M.
Caskey, Wm.
Chevalley,  .
Day, Jas. W.
Drebbing, C. L.
Doll, R. M.
Dieffenderfer, Wm.
Dugan, Jas. A., wounded by accident in camp, June
28th, 1861.
Dandrigde, E. P., wounded at first battle Manassas,
July 21st, 1861.
Dalgarn, S. S., slightly wounded.
Englebright, Jno.
Earson, Joseph.
Fisher, James.
Fisher, John L., killed at battle Chancellorsville, May
3rd, 1862.

War of the Rebellion. 229
Fravel, Geo.
Fryatt, John T., killed at Manassas, July 21st, 1861.
Griffin, Michael, wounded at battle Cold Harbour,
June 27th, 1861.
Gardner, Jarvus.
Glass, G.
HoUis, T. W.
Hodges, N.
Homrich, Jas. M.
HoUis, J.
Hollis, T. P.
Halem, M.
Hill, Joseph.
Harrison, 
Hedges, Owen T., killed at battle of Gettysburg, July
23d, 1863.
Hunter, John C, promoted Sergeant, August 4th, 1861,
— wounded at first battle Manassas, July 21st, 1861.
Helferstay, 
Harman, Wm., Avounded at battle of Kernstown, March
23d, 1862.
Harrison, John S.
Hambleton, Wm., promoted Corporal, August 4th,
1861. Huff, Benj., killed.
Harley, Patrick, Avounded at battle Cold Harbour,
June 27th, 1862.
Joy, J. F.
Kilmer, George H.
Kearfott, William P.
Kearf ott, James L.
Kolner, L. K., wounded at battles of Payne's Farm,
Wilderness, and Seven Days' Fight around Richmond.
Kearns, Joseph, deserted.
Lewis, Walter, wounded at second battle Manassas,
August 27th, 1862.
Larkins, Thomas.

230 War of the Rebellion.
Leshorn, James W., wounded at first battle Manassas,
July 21st, 1861.
Light, William H., wounded at first battle Manassas,
July 21st, 1861.
Lewis, Lewis, killed at second battle Manassas, August
27th, 1862.
Leathers, John H.
Meachem, Richard, killed at battle Chancellorsville,
May 3d, 1862.
Maupin, T. A., deserted, June 30th, 1861.
Moody, John P.
Miller, Jonathan.
Matthews, Henry C.
McMullen, Charles.
Mclntire, JohnF., wounded at first battle Manassas,
July 21st, 1861.
MeCleary, Trip, wounded at first battle Manassas, July
21st, 1861.
McGeary, William, wounded at first battle Manassas,
July 21st, 1861.
Muhlenburg, Charles.
Marikle, John B., wounded at second battle Manassas,
August 27th, 1862.
Marikle, Thomas T. •
McWhorter, James W.
Marikle, Joseph S., killed at second battle Manassas,
August 27th, 1862.
Nicholson, Thomas.
Oden, Archibald.
Painter, Joseph.
Phillips, William.
Piper, John R.
Parker, Richard.
Rust, William.
Simmons, AV., wounded at first battle Manassas, July
21st, 1861 ; discharged Dec. 5th, 1861.
Scheig, George.

War of the Rebellion. 231
Staub, R. P. H.
Sailes,  , died of disease.
Suddith, Joseph.
Smith, John, deserted July 5th, 1861.
Smith, William.
Sherrer, George.
Suiter, Charles.
Siler, John.
Steward, T. W.
Staub, John F.
Smeltzer, C. W.
Saville, Albert, killed at second battle Manassas, Au
gust 27th, 1862.
Thrush, John M.
Titlow, R.
Vorhees, George F., wounded.
Weaver, Charles, Avounded by accident in camp, June
28th, 1861.
Weaver, George.
Webster, R. A.
Wolff, C. A.
Weaver, John, killed at second battle Manassas, Au
gust 27th, 1862.
AVhitson, Geo. D., wounded at first battle Manassas,
July 21st, 1861. MUSICIANS.
E. B. Hooper, Drum Major.
AVm. Hayden, Assistant Drum Major
E. G. Tabler.
Samuel Hutchinson.
Charles Shober.
While Jackson was retreating from AVinchester, by
direction of Capt. Hoffman, Lewis Lewis fired the first
shot at a Federal scout on the famous Fisher' s Hill, where
one of the most important battles was fought.

232 War of tJie Rebellion.
COMPANY "B," WISE ARTILLERY— BERKELEY COUNTY.
[Confederate States Army.]
This company was organized in November of 1859, im
mediately after John Brown's raid upon Harper's Ferry,
and was named in honor of Governor Henry A. Wise, of
Virginia. The first section of this battery was stationed
at Charlestown during the execution of John Brown.
On the evening of the 18th of April, 1861, Capt. E. G.
Alburtis received orders from Governor John Letcher, of
Virginia, to prepare his battery for the march and pro
ceed early the next morning, via. Baltimore and Ohio
Railroad, to Harper's Ferry, and there report for duty.
History records many heroic and valorous deeds of this
company, which participated in the most severe strugles
during the war. Its simple list of battles fought, as
placed among the names upon its banners are : battle of
Manassas, Williamsburg, Seven Pines, seven days' fight
around Richmond, Cold Harbor, Savage Station, Frazier
Farm, Malvern Hill, Second Battle Mannassas, Boons-
boro' Gap, Sharpsburg, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville,
Gettysburg, Chattanooga, Seige of Knoxville, Tenn., Wil
derness, Spottsylvania Court House, second battle Cold
Harbor, Drewey's Bluff, Five Forks, Siege of Peters
burg, A^a. The company surrendered with the Army of
Northern Virginia at Appomattox Court House, April
9th, 1865. The enlisments were as follows :
Captain, E. G. Alburtis, resigned 1861.
First Lieutenant, James S. Brown ; promoted Cap
tain, January, 1862 ; — wounded at battle of Sharpsburg,
June, 1862.
Second Lieutenant, Geo. H. Murjjhy, transferred to
cavalry, 1861.
TJiird Lieutenant,  AA'ItheroAv, resigned in 1861.
Lieutenant, J. C. Pelham, instructor; promoted Cap
tain and chief Stewart's Horse Artillery, 1861.
Surgeon, Dr. J. D. Newman.
Bugler, Jos. Sherrer.

War of tJie Rebellion. 283
Ensign, John R. O'Neal.
First Sergeant, Frank Smith, transferred.
Second Sergeant, Oliver King, "
Third Sergeant, Robert Lowery, ' '
Fourth Sergeant, John Maxwell, promoted Second
Lieutenant, January, 1862; — transferred to cavalry.
Fifth Sergeant, J. R. Couchman, promoted Quarter
master Sergeant, January, 1862.
First Corporal, Henry Wentz, promoted First Ser
geant, 1862.
Second Corporal, Barney Stewart, promoted First
Sergeant, May, 1861.
Third Corporal, JohnHines, transferred.
FourtJi Corporal, John S. Robinson, promoted Third
Sergeant, June, 1861.
Fifth Corporal, John H. AVeddell, promoted Second
Sergeant, November, 1861 ; promoted Second Lieu
tenant, June, 1862 ; promoted First Lieutenant for gal
lantry upon the field of battle. May 1st, 1863 ; wound
ed at United States Ford, May 3d, 1863 ; wounded A.pril
5th, 1365.
Sixth Corporal, Joseph Lantz, promoted First Corpo
ral, June, 1861, — killed at battle of Gettysburg, July 3di
1863. PRIVATES.
Alburtis, Samuel, transferred.
Auld, Charles.
Armpriest, AA^m.
Boyer, John A.
Blakeney, Edward.
Blakeney, Harry, wounded at battle of Antietam,
June, 1862.
Blanchfield, John.
Beard, Geo., wounded at Seven Days' Fight Around
Richmond, June 27th, 1862, — wounded in front of Ber
muda Hundred, February, 1865.
Bell, Harry, promoted Sergeant, 1862.

234 War of tJie Rebellion.
Britton, Edward, transferred to Cavalry.
Bowers, John, transferred.
Chambers, G. AV., wounded at battle of Spottsylvania
Court House, and died, June, 1864.
Clarke, Wm., Avounded Seven Days' Fight Around
Richmond, June 27th, 1862.
Conway, James, discharged.
Commiskey, Thos.
Cox, Samuel.
Cunningham, David.
Causemenia,  , wounded and died, June, 1864.
¦ Faulkner, E. Boyd, wounded at first battle of Manas
sas, July, 1861, — promoted Captain, 1861, — transferred.
Feaman, James, discharged.
Frazier, James.
Fiske, James, discharged.
Fultz, Thornton, discharged.
Gruber, J., discharged.
Hedges, B. S.
Herndon, Thomas.
Harley, James, killed, April 29th, 1863, at Chancel
lorsville. Helan, Patrick, discharged.
Hazard, Charles, killed at Cold Harbor, 1864.
Helferstay, AVm.
Hess, Aaron T.
Hill, Christopher.
Iradella,  , discharged.
Israel, Gilbert.
Johnson, Wm., discharged.
Kisner, Wm., discharged.
Kisner, AVash., discharged.
Kearns, Cyrus, promoted 3d Lieutenant, April, 1862, —
killed at Seven Days' Fight Around Richmond, June 28th,
1862. Kearns, Robert, discharged.
Keyes, John.

War of the Rebellion. 235
Lucas, Charles, killed, at Seven Days' Fight Around
Richmond, June 27th, 1862.
Lucas, Benj., promoted 1st Sergeant.
Lucas, O. M., promoted Corporal, January, 1862.
Lowery, Benj., discharged.
Lantz, Christian.
Lowman, James, discharged.
Lowery, Wm., discharged.
Landers, Michael, discharged.
Mahoney, Patrick, promoted Commissary Sergeant,
January, 1862.
McLaughlin, Franklin.
Mulligan, Patrick.
Murray, Patrick.
Moore, J.
Moore, Andrew M.
Markel,^ Samuel, promoted Corporal, 1862.
Mooney, J. B.
Myers, Wm.
Noland, Wm.
Palmer, Kearney.
Prior, Thomas.
Pendleton, P. C.
Rose, A. P.
Ryneal, P.
Ridenour, Martin.
Reardon, John.
Robinson, Edgar.
Reed, John.
Reed, J. F.
Stray er, A. P.
Sullivan, Edward.
Schultz, AVm.
Sisco, John.
Sisco, Peter.
Shea, John.
Seibert, Joseph.

236 War of tJie Rebellion.
Suter, T. C,
Scheig, Adolphus.
Strainey, Edward.
Titlow, Robt.
Tate, Robt.
Thomas, B.
Tabler, Martin.
Vogel, John.
Walker, E. M., promoted 1st Lieutenant, January,
1862, — transferred to cavalry.
Walker, G. AV., promoted Corporal, 1862.
AVert, H. T.
AVollett, P., discharged.
AVann, John.
Westphall, Chas., discharged.
Whitehurst, James, killed at Knoxville, Tenn., 1863.
Young, John.

COMPANY "B," FIRST REGIMENT, VIRGINIA CAVALRY-
BERKELEY COUNTY,
[Confederate States Army.]
About the year 1860 this company was organized, Avith
John Blair Hoge as Captain, and took an important part
in the battles of the late civil strife. Composed of loyal
and intelligent men, its part Avas well played. Upon its
banner are to be found the names of the largest and most
Importaant battles fought. The first conflict for which
they were ordered out, Avas the battle of Manassas, which
occurred July 21st, 1861. After this they were engaged
with the Confederate troops in the various long and
bloody battles fought. Among the number are : Battle
of Seven Pines, (or seven days fight around Richmond),
Wilderness ; Fredericksburg ; Second Battle of Manas
sas ; Antietam ; Gettysburg ; Spotsylvania Court House;
Petersburg, Five Forks, and others. Berkeley was ably
represented by this command, of Avliose number, many
have strewn the battle-Field with blood and life in de-

War of the Rebellion. 237
f ense of their just principles. AVith the army of Northern
Virginia, they surrendered at Appomattox, April 9th,
1865. The enlistments at the time of organization are as
follows :
Captain, G. N. Hammond, killed at Yellow Tavern,
May 12th, 1864.
First Lieutenant, AVm. K. Light.
Second Lieutenant, AVm. T. Noll, promoted as first
Lieutenant, — wounded at Gettysburg, July 4, 1863.
First Sergeant, John B. Seibert, discharged.
Second Sergeant, Charles Weller, discharged.
Third Sergeant, Robert H. Stewart, promoted as 2d
Lieutenant, — wounded at Mt. Olivet, October 10, 1864.
First Corporal, James N. Cunningham, promoted as
Captain, — wounded at Front Royal, August 21, and at
Rood's Hill, November 28, 1864.
Second Corporal, Aqulla Janney, detailed in Quarter
master's Department.
Third Corporal, James W. CushAva, promoted as 2d
Sergeant. PRIVATES.
Armstrong, Archibald, wounded at Spottsylvania, May
8, 1864,— killed at Martinsburg, July 1, 1864.
Auld. Thos. E.
Boley, Benj. F., Avounded at Rood's Hill, November
23, 1864.
Bowers, Richard H.
Boyd, John E., promoted as Fourth Sergeant.
Breathed, James W., transferred, — promoted as Cap
tain and Major of the Stuart Horse Artillery.
Bryarly, Robert P., promoted as Third Corporal,—
wounded at Tom's Brook, October 9, 1864.
Buchannon, J. C.
Burkhart, R. C.
Carper, Geo. W.
Catrow, John W., wounded at Slatersville, May 9, 1862.
Chapman, Jacob A., transferred.

288 War of tJie Rebellion.
Combs, J. L. E., bugler ; discharged.
Couchman, David, Avounded at Slatersville, May 9,
1862. Cunningham, Charles, killed at AA^inchester, Septem
ber 19, 1864.
Cunningham, AA^. L., wounded at Gettysburg, July 4,
1863. Cushen, R. D.
Cushwa, Daniel.
Cushwa, David, promoted as 1st Corporal, — wounded
at Rood's Hill, November 23, 1864.
Cushwa, Seibert
Frieze, A. J., wounded at Spottsylvania, May 9, 1864.
Frieze, George.
Gageby, John N., promoted as 1st Sergeant.
Gladden, George.
House, Thomas.
Janney, W. H. H.
Jefferson, William M.
Kearfott, James, killed at Rood's Hill, November 23,
1864. Kearfott, John P., wounded at Kennon's Landing,
June 5, 1864.
Kilmer, B. S., wounded at Mount Olivet, October 10,
1864. Kilmer, Daniel.
Kilmer, David, wounded at Yellow Tavern, May 11,
1864. Kilmer, H. D., transferred.
Lemen, W. M., Medical Sergeant.
Lyle, R. G., discharged.
Manning, Dennis, wounded at Raccoon Ford, October
13, 1863.
Marshall, Geo. W., promoted as 3d Sergeant,— Avounded
at Spottsylvania, May 9, 1864.
Marshall, Joseph, died from disease.
Mason, James A.

War of the Rebellion. 289
McClary, Geo. AV.
McKee, Mayberry.
Miller, Daniel.
Mong, Wendel, promoted as 4th Corporal.
Murphy, James B., killed at Rood's Hill, Sept. 19, 1864.
Murphy, Richard.
Myers, AV. H.
Payne, J. Trip.
Payne, Martin L., Avounded at Anandale, Sept. 1861,
at Spottsylvania, May, 1864, and at Cedar Creek,
February, 1865.
Payne, 0. F., wounded at Mount Olivet, Oct. 10, 1864.
Rainer, George.
Roberts, E. S.
Roberts, Geo. D.
Roberts, AVIUiam, wounded at Cedar Creek, October
19, 1864.
Roush, Charles, wounded at AVinchester, Aug. 28, 1864.
Seibert, Abraham, wounded at Manasses, July 21, 1861,
— discharged.Seibert, Eli.
Seibert, JohnB., discharged.
Seibert, Wendel, promoted as Second Corporal, —
wounded at Spottsylvania, May 9, 1864.
Shepherd, James, transferred.
Showers, George E.
Silver, Frank, wounded at Rood's Hill, Nov. 23, 1864.
Silver, Henry.
Small, David.
Small, William
Strayer, D. J. R., wounded at Manassas, July 21, 1861.
Strode, P. H.
Stump, JohnH., wounded at Yellow Tavern, May 11,
1864. Tabb, E. W. discharged.
Thatcher, David, killed at Buckland Mills, Oct. 19, 1868.
Thomas, Jacob.

240 War of tJie Rebellio7i.
AVeaver, Charles.
AVeaver, George, killed at Slatersville, Va., May 9, 1862.

COMPANY "E," SECOND REGIMENT, VIRGINIA INFANTRY-
BERKELEY COUNTY.
[Confederate States Army.]
This company was organized in the fall of 1859, in the
town of Hedgesville and vicinity, immediately after the
John Brown raid, when the Southern people became im
pressed with the idea that their institutions were men
aced by northern fanatics. M. C. Nadenbousch, Esq.,
was its first Captain, and R. T. Colston, a graduate of
the Virginia Military Institute, was First Lieutenant.
Capt. Nadenbousch having had no military traimng,
very shortly resigned, and Lieutenant Colston succeeded
to the captaincy and brought the company to a high
degree of proficiency. ' AVhen the war cloud burst. Cap
tain Colston was ordered to report, with his company, at
Harper's Ferry. Company "E" was assigned to the 2nd
Virginia Regiment, which formed a part of the famous
"Stonewall Brigade," and participated in all the battlesin
which that gallant corps was engaged. It contained with
in its ranks some of Berkeley' s bravest sons, always bear
ing itself bravely in every fight. The following is a roll of
the company, as near as can be gotten at this late day,
obtained from surviving members thereof :
Captain, Raleigh T. Colston, promoted to Lieut. Col.
in 1862,— to Col. in 1868, and killed at the battle of Mine
Run, Nov. 28d, 1863.
First Lieutenant, David Manor, killed at the first bat
tle of Manassas, July 21st, 1861.
First Sergeant, Wm. B. Colston, wounded at Kerns
town, March 23rd, 1862, —promoted to First Lieutenant,
April, 1862, — wounded at Fredericksburg, Dec, 15th,
1862,— promoted Captain, May, 1863.
Second Sergeant, John T. Hull, promoted Second
Lieutenant, April, 1862,— wounded at Chancellorsville.

War of tJie Rebellion. ' 241
TJilrd Sergeant, Chas. AV. Manor, wounded at first
battle of Manassas, July 21st, 1861,— promoted Orderly
-Sergeant, April, 1862.
FourtJi Sergeant, AV. H. Lingamfelter.
PRIVATES.
Bane, Newton.
Basore, Emanuel.
Blamer, James. '
Brown, Charles.
Criswell, John L.
Couchman, Geo. AV., wounded at second battle of
Manassas. Dugan, James L., lost arm at Seven Pines.
Eversole, John AV.
Eversole, Jacob H., wounded at Chancellorsville.
Eversole, Isaac, killed.
Fiery, Ja'mes, killed at Chancellorsville.
Guinn, James V.
Haines, John J., promoted First Lieutenant, April,
1862,— wounded at Fredericksburg, Dec. 15th, 1862.
Hill, Abraham.
Hull, Geo. AV., wounded.
Hull, Dallas, wounded at Port Republic.
Hunter, David, killed at Fisher's Hill, 1864.
Hunter, John A., detailed on signal service.
Jenkins, Asa.
Johnson, AVilllam.
Keisecker, Newton, killed at Chancellorsville.
Keyser, John, killed at Fredericksburg.
Lanham, Jeremiah.
Light, AVm. E.
Merchant, Isaac N., wounded at Chancellorsville.
Miller, Geo. AV., killed at first battle of Manassas, July
21st, 1861.
Myers, Cromwell L., wounded at Kernstown.
Miller, Harvey A.
Merchant, W. S., wounded at Cedar Mountain.

S42 lT*ar of tJie Rebellion.
O'Connor, Michael.
Pike, Frank, Jr., killed at Kernstown, March 23d, 1862.
Pryor, John, wounded on several occasions.
Porterfield, Milton, wounded at battle of Wilderness.
Porterfield, Alexander, killed.
Perregory, William.
Riddle, John, killed.
Rockwell, George W., promoted 3d Lieutenant, 1863.
Sperow, Jacob, killed at Kernstown, March 23d, 1862.
SperoAv, George.
Snodgrass, Porterfield.
Sharff, Nicholas.
Stuckey, Samuel A.
Stuckey, John AV., killed at second Manassas, 1862.
Small, Reuben.
Small, John M.
Turner, William, killed.
Triggs, Harrison.
Wilson, Valerius.
Weddell, Geo. AV., wounded at KernstoAvn, March 28d,
1862,— at Monocacv in 1864.

COMPANY "A," SEVENTEENTH BATALLION, VIRGINIA CAV
ALRY—BERKELEY COUNTY.
This company was organized in October, 1861, at Mar
tinsburg, principally of Berkeley County men, AAuth a
number from the surrounding counties. It was first sta
tioned at Martinsburg, and acted on picket duty along
the border, where it remained until about February 24th,
1862. From here they proceeded to and around AA^in-
chester, and afterward fell back up the valley. They
next went to Strausburg and Woodstock, afterwards
serving on picket duty several days at Millwood and
White Post. They were then ordered to Middletown,
Harrisonburg and Two Bridges, and from the latter place
a detachment of fourteen men were sent to Fort Repub
lic to guard the bridge and prepare it for burning. Here

War of tJie Rebellion. 243
they engaged in tAvo very severe fights, which occurred
on the 11th and 12th of May, at Cross Keys and Lewis'
Bottoms. From here they went down the valley in rear
of Jackson's army and fought at Winchester on the 24th
of May of that year, with a part of the company acting
on picket duty at Front Royal. They again returned
to the border and remained about three days, from
Avhence th6y fell back with Jackson, who then crossed
the Blue Ridge and went into Virginia. This company
participated in all the important battles fought during
the late civil strife, and many of Berekeley's brave and
heroic sons have fell within its ranks in defense of what
they deemed a just and worthy cause. It was known
during those days as the "Wild Cat Company."
It has been an impossibility to obtain its roll of mem
bers full and correct, as the author has been unable to
gain any other information than that given by several
survivors of the company. The following is a list of
Berkeley County men, with officers, etc., as can best be
ascertained :
Captain, G. AV. Myers, of Baltimore, Md.
First Lieutenant, George Wells.
Second Lieutenant,  Murray, of Baltimore.
PRIVATES.
Albain, 
Brittner, Thad, killed.
Blondel, Charles.
Bets, James.
Butler, John.
Carney, J. V., wounded at Darkesville, Sept. 17th,
1862. Chapman,  .
Gore,  , killed at Buckner's Station, May 28d,
1862. Hedges, Anthony, killed.
Kensel, John J.
Leech, Sid.

244 War of tJie Rebellion.
Miller, Harvey A.
Mingle, John.
McNemar, Michael, wounded.
Patterson, Frank.
Ronk, Benj., killed at Mt. Jackson, 1868.
Seibert, J. B., promoted Lieutenant.
Strode, Joseph.
Saderfield,  ¦ — .
Sayles, William.
Seckman, T.
Turner, John A., promoted Captain.
Teack, S.
Wilson, J. L., killed at AVarrlngton Springs.
This Company left Martinsburg with about 60 mem
bers, and was composed of men from Berkeley, Morgan,
Frederick and Jefferson Counties, with several from
Maryland.

THE BLUE AND THE GRAY.
I.
' By the flow of the inland river,
AVhence the fleets of iron have fled.
Where the blades of the grave-grass quiver,
Asleep ar"e the ranks of the dead ; —
Under the sod a,nd the dew,
AVaiting the judgment day ;
Under the one, the Blue ;
Under the other, the Gr.\a-.
II.
' There, in the robings of glorj-.
Those in the gloom of defeat.
All, with the battle-blood gory.
In the dusk of eternity meet ; —
Under the sod and the dew.
Waiting the judgment day ;
Under the laurel, the Bl-ue ;
Under the willow, the Gray.
III.
From the silence of sorrowful hours.
The desolate mourners go.
Lovingly laden with flowers.

War of tJie Rebellion. 245

Alike tor the friend and the foe ; —
Under the sod and the dew.
Waiting the judgment day ;
Under the roses, the Blue ;
Under the lilies, the Gray.
lA'.
' So, with an equal splendor.
The morning sun-raj'S fall.
With a touch, impartially tender,
On the blossoms blooming for all ; —
Under the sod and the dew.
Waiting the judgment day ;
Broidered with gold, the Blue ;
Mellowed with gold, the Graa".
A'.
' So, when the summer calleth.
On forest and field of grain,
With an equal murmur f alleth
The cooling drip of the rain; —
Under the sod and the dew.
Waiting the judgment day ;
Wet with the rain, the Blue ;
AVet with the rain, the Gray.
A'l.
' Sadly, but not with upbraiding.
The generous deed was done ;
In the storm of the years that are fading,
No braver battle was Avon ; —
Under the sod and the dew.
Waiting the judgment day ;
Under the blossoms, the Blue ;
Under the garlands, the Gray.
VII.
' No more shall the war-cry sever.
Or the winding rivers be red ;
They banish our anger forcA'er,
When they laurel the graves of our dead ;
Under the sod and the dew.
Waiting the judgment day ;
Love and tears, for the Blub ;
Tears and love, for the Graa'.

REMINISCENCE.

PEOPLE'S National Bank

OP

-^MARTINSBURG-, WEST VIRQINIA,$<-
COR. QUEEN AND BURKE STREETS,

DESIGNATED DEPOSITORY OF THE UNITED STATES.

A. J.THOMAS.Pres. J. B. WILSON, Cashier.

Capital, $50,000. Surplus and UMiYlded Profits, $20,000.

A GENERAL BANKING BUSINESS TRANSACTED.

ACCOUNTS OP BANKS AND BANKERS,
CORPORATIONS, MANUFACTURING
FIRMS, MERCHANTS AND INDI
VIDUALS SOLICITED.

e-H==  coxjiLiiECT'ionsrs ¦

RECEIVED UPON ALL ACCESSIBLE POINTS, AND RETURNS
PROMPTLY MADE AS DIRECTED. CAREFUL ATTEN
TION GIVEN TO THE BUSINESS OF
CORRESPONDENTS.

Domestic and Foreign Exchange Bought and Sold.
2='i^ii>rci::E=jS^Xj coi?,3R,Es:E'03sriD:E:3sra:s:
FIItST NAXIONAIi HANK, New Torlc City,
COM. EXCSANGE NATIOXAI, BAXK, Philadelphia,
WHSTEMir NATIONAI, SANK, Baltimore,
SECOND NATIONAL BANK, Washington.

CHAPTER XI.
HISTORICAL REMINISCENCE OF MARTINSBURG,
FROM THE YEAR 1882 TO THE YEAR 1861,
AVITH STATEMENTS COVERING- MANY
EVENTS OCCURRING SINCE THE
CLOSE OF THE LATE CIA'IL
AVAR.
BY JOHN AV. CURTIS.
[^Written especially for the author of this work, and copyrighted accord-
ing to law. All rights reserved r\
HP^URING my early childhood days there were still
§^P many Revolutionary heroes, old, and in many cases.
decrepid, who would often entertain coinx)any at the
hotel, by relating personal experience of the times
through Avhich they had passed ; also, many yet Avho
had been engaged in the Indian AA'ars. Among them Avas
one Peter Cook, who had been in St. Clair's defeat in
Ohio Territory. He would exhibit the effect of a terrible
struggle Avhich left him maimed for life, and AA'as one of
only 123 that reached the AvhIte settlement from the
defeat. His right foot A\-as cut off diagonally up to the
instep of the foot, leaving only the little toe. He shot
an Indian Avho feigned death, and Avent to get his arms,
when the Indian arose Avith tomahawk and cleft his foot
off at one blow. He had a seA-ere struggle, and finally
getting the tomahawk, he buried it In the top of the In
dian's head.
Many thrilling instances of escape, as Avell as personal
struggle in border warfare, Avould be related in Avhich the
parties Avere personally engaged. There seldom passed
a week that more or less Indians, in their native dress
and natural ferociousness of character, came through

250 Reminiscence.
town. They would be fully equipped with bow and
arrows, and tomahawk, AvIth knife hanging to a band of
undressed deer hide around their Avals t. They would
often shoot at coin placed in a split stick — if hitting. It
Avas theirs ; upon missing, they would throw on the
ground the same coin. Our silver coin at that time Avas
the Picayune, or Oi cent piece. The bit of 12 J cent piece,
and the Hispanoia of Pillar, 25 cent piece, were all Span
ish coin. The Mexican Pillar or Spanish, and the Amer
ican silver dollar, copper half and one cent pieces, were
used as American coin. I have no early recollection of
seeing the American five, ten, twenty-five and fifty cent
pieces until after passing up to full youth.
The Indians generally passing through our valley Avere
from Kentucky and Tennessee, and Avere enormous eaters.
On one occasion four arrived and stopped at the hotel.
Three at once commenced shooting at coin, and the other
came in and asked for food. A full large loaf of bread,
Avith an ordinary size ham, Avas placed before him, and
he was left to help himself. Upon returning nothing Avas
left except the bone of the ham.
AVhen a child the whipping post occupied ground di
rectly in front of your present, and also old Court House
door. One Christmas morning it was found blown to
pieces. Parties had bored holes In the stock and charged
them heavily Avith powder, destroying it for all future
use. A neAV one AA-as afterAA-ard erected in the space be
tAveen the jail and next house east, Avhich Avas then the
Clerk's ofiice.
The first event to make a lasting impression and fix
itself upon my mIndAvas of a j)olItiral character, and will
shoAv the devices resorted to at that period to claim and
hold party fealty. It AA-as in my fourth year, and had
my home at a large hotel, the headquarters of the Dem
ocratic and Republican parties. During the congressional
canvass of 1882 General Jackson Avas President, and a
procession and barebcue Avas held late in the evening.

Reminiscence. 251
and the Democracy addressed from a stand In front of
the hotel. On the street Avas a wagon draAvn by six
horses, beautifully caparisoned, and fixed upon it was
a good-sized hickory tree in full leaf and foliage. Upon
each twig, branch, limb, in fact all over it, was hung the
American silver dollar, tied by blue ribbons, and at every
vibration of the tree the delightful tingling money sound
would strike upon the ear. This device Avas to show the
Democrats' hostility to the then Federalists' financial
system and United States Bank, which had absorbed and
held in its vaults nearly, if not all, coin in the country,
ruinous to all commercial pursuits and crippling the
Government very seriously in its Treasury Department.
My entire boyhood days were spent at this hotel, and up
to almost middle life It was the headquarters of the
Democracy, and every meeting of the county was held
there. Old Tammany or Billmire's Hotel Avas situated
on the southwest corner of King and your present Ger
man streets. It was not for many years that any other
streets had names, except King and Queen, they being
then as uoav, the principle business streets.
The other hotels Avere the Globe, AA"m. Kraesen, jjro-
prietor, occupying the site on King street opposite your
St. Clair Hotel, as far up as Grantham Hall east, and ad
joining property now owned by E. Herring, Esq.; a hotel
with different j)roprietors, called the Claycomb House,
Avhere the present Lambert saloon Is, on Queen street ;
the Gardner House, owned V)y Peter Gardner, an eccen
tric good old German, which is now the Eagle Hotel, on
Queen street ; also the Kelley House, (proprietor un
known) located on your present Martin street, directly
opposite the home of Dr. Myers. The old toAvn up to the
year 1837 Avas what might be called a good- sized village,
Avith possibly 800 and could not have exceeded 1,000 in
habitants. Each day four stages arrived and departed —
one to Hagerstown, one to ShepherdstoAvn, one to AVin
chester, and one to the AVarm Springs, now knoAvn as

252 Reminiscence.
Berkeley Springs. All traffic and trade was carred on
by Avagons and teams. Every hotel tried to secure the
custom, and it was very evenly divided. No such things
as a railroad was thought of in our every-day life, al
though occasionally I could hear among the drivers of
teams about the horse railway from Baltimore to EUi-
cott's Mills. The manufacture of avooIs was carried on
largely at a factory belonging to the Gibbs family. It
occupied the present locality of or abour your pump-
house for water Avorks ; also a large foundry on same lo
cality, of which the Gibbs were proprietors, and super
intended by John Keys, avIio raised a large family, one
of Avhom, Philip, is now Hying at Keyser. Distillers for
Avhisky and fruit Avere scattered around, the principle
one being Flaggs', east of tOAvn. Flour Avas largely man
ufactured and shipped. The Stevens mill, now owned
by Geo. M. BoAvers ; the Ransom mill, now Hannis' ; the
Tabb and HIbbard mills on Tuscarora, west of town, now
Kilmer and Bender' s mills, were all large grinders. Each
farmer had his own grain ground for toll, and sold the
flour as needed at home, or else hauled it to Baltimore
markets, bringing back for the merchants dry goods,
groceiies, etc. At the site of the pres'ent Fitz mill Avas
an oil mill, where flax-seed was ground and oil extracted
for sale. Blacksmlthing, Avagon -making, furniture man
ufacturing, cooperage, saddle and harness making, tai
loring, shoe making, Avatch repairing, house carpentry,
tinning, white- smithing or lock making, brass foundry
and copper kettle making Avere carried on extensively,
and many manufactories had Avagons on the road selling
tlieir articles of trade.
Onr fathers and mothers Avere an active, busy people.
The mode of preparation of food by cooking Avas of an
entire different character than at present. AA"e had no
stoves and knew nothing about them, except the old ten-
plate All our cooking Avas done in stew pans Avith long
handles, Dutch ovens, spitts, frying j)ans, etc., on an

Reminiscence. 253
open hearth, using live coals from the chimney Avhere
full cord Avood had been burnt doAA-n. Our bread Avas
baked in ovens specially built for such purposes. In
preparation for baking, batch Avas set in large dough-
trays over night and worked out in the morning Into
loaves, each of which was placed In a bread-basket made
of straAv, closely knit together by hickory Aviths. In
these baskets the bread was again raised for baking, and
afterwards turned upon a large paddle used in placing
it in the oven, where it rested upon the heated floor, and
generally came out with a crisp, nice crust, and Avas fit
for the stomach of an epicure.
The sports of the day were of similar character to the
present. Boys played town, ring and corner ball, ran
the fox, and at certain seasons played marbles In various
games, shooting in holes being much in vogue ; in winter
enjoying skating. A large pond of water was near toAvn,
known as the AVaite lot, where many days of sport in
skating were enjoyed. Hop, skid and jump, mumbly
meg, hide and seek, and many other games were indulged
in. The older boys took much delight in flying large
kites, sending up hot air paper balloons, throwing fire
balls, etc. The men would get up bull baits, where they
would have a large, fierce bull tied by the horns with a
cable rope, and fastened securely to a stake planted
deeply in the ground. They would try the metal and
ferocity of a class of fierce bull dogs. One to three at a
time turned on the animal, and AvMch ever dog took a
nose hold and threw the bull, received the reward of
champion, and possibly its owner some compensation.
Much betting was engaged in as to the merits of th e
different dogs. There was also a weekly chicken or cock
main fought somewhere in toAvn. They also passed much
time in pitching quaits, Avrestling and jumping, and
on everything betting was prevalent. Much drink
ing was done, — persons usually buying liquor by the pint
or half pint, and drinking it at a table from little tin

254 Reminiscence.
caps called jiggers. This Avas the general custom up to
1837, Avhen drinking at the bar by glasses became custo
mary. No liquor Avas sold exceiDt at regular licensed
hotels, and no license granted except upon condition,
that stable room for not less than three horses and beds
for nine men, Avere on'the j)remlses ; and they were then
licensed as ordinary'' s, not as hotels or inns.
The school accommodations of the times were limited,
In the extreme. Old Capt. Maxwell taught for years in
a house on your present Burke Street. In the basement
of the Lutheran Church different persons taught. My
first day at school Avas under the present church site, the
teacher being a Mr. Young, who by his filthy habit of
profuse tobacco spitting on the floor, was disrespectfully
called by the scholars "Old Peal Garlic." He was better
known by that than his own name. He Avas succeeded
by a Mr. JohnByers, from Shepherdstown, who contin
ued a long time as tutor, and many of my age then going
to him, OAve him a deep and mighty debt for his loving
care over us, both as to morals as well as the secular
knowledge he gave us. I think your good citizens, J.
E. Hill, Joseph Painter, Jacob SAvartz, and possibly
others will join me In his praise. On the hill near the
Catholic and Eplscojpal cemeteries was a stone building
called the accademy, then taught by a Mr. Bascom, suc
ceeded by a Mr. Caney and others whose names have
passed from memory. In the building noAv occupied by
the priest, in charge of the Catholic Church, a Mrs.
Little taught exclusively, a female school. This embra
ced all the schools of the town, until after the year 1840,
Avhich I will enumerate when I reach that' year.
The Presidential campaign of 1836, with Martin Van
Buren for President, and R. M. Johnson* for A^Ice-PresI-
dent, as Democratic candidates, AvIth Henry Clay as the
*Johnson was called old Tecumseh, having the reputation of killino- this
great Indian Chief in the Indian war of 1834, in the then tcrritorv of
Indiana.

Reminiscence. 255
AA'^hig candidate, passed AA'Ithout much excitement, al
though the great questions of the day being as is now.
The AVhig measure was Tariff for Protection, or Tariff
for Revenue, with incidental protection a Democratic
policy. The Democratic measure AA'as the recharter of
the old U. S. Bank, advocated by Henry Clay, as against
the Sub-Treasury system. The Democrats being success
ful in the election of Van Buren and Johnson, with a
large majority in the loAver House and Senate, everything
remained quiet politically.
In 1837 the old town was moved Avonderfully. A large
camp, having 37 canvas tents, suddenly appeared on
level ground beyond the present Green Hill Cemetery.
They proved to be the Surveying corps, locating the
route of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, among
whom were a Mr. Latrobe as principal, and his im
mediate officer in charge, a Mr. Shipley, and many
others with whose names I was once familiar, but have
now passed from memory. It gave neAv life and impetus
to everything. The house, known afterward as Everett
House, Avas Improved and converted into a hotel, of
which my uncles, John and Mike Blllmire, became pro
prietors for the years 1838 and 1839. This house became
headquarters in town for Civil Engineers when from
camp. They removed their camp to the ground now oc
cupied by Mr. J. AV. Bishop, above the Fitz mills, and
remained there for several years. On the 22d of Febru
ary, 1839, the citizens of the town tendered an honor to
the Civil Engineers, which they accepted, and a grand
ball was held at the old Tammany House, to which my
uncles were caterers. The military spirit of the peo
ple of Martinsburg was ahvays good, and at that
time the Lafayette Guards, under command of Capt.
John S. Harrison, was a crack company. Under
superior drill and beautifully uniformed, Avas present
also many soldiers from Cumberland, Md., belong
ing to a company called the Continentals. Their

256 Reminiscence.
dress consisted of navy blue cloth, AvIth buff facing
on the breast ; buffi vest, many of yellow tanned deer
skin ; short knee breeches Avith white hose attached by
large buckles, and low slippers, something like an Indian
moccasin. They made a beautiful appearance, and tak
ing all in all, the ball was a grand occasion.
The churches of the town from 1832 to 1840 remained
unchanged. There Avas on the corner of John street and
the graveyard an old log building, which had been occu
pied In common by the Lutheran and German Reformed
denominations, services being conducted in the Dutch
language. It was abandoned when I first kneAV it. In
side it was weatherboarded to the apex of the roof, with
the entrance on the corner. The quaintest high back
pews Avere placed diagonally across the church, in order
to face a pulpit nearly, if not fully, fifteen feet high, as
it was reached by 17 stejDS, ascending spirally from the
corner of the chancel. It was capped by a box that came
above the waist of an ordinary sized man, and just big
enough for him to stand in without a seat, from AvhIch
he delivered his sermon. Above the entrance Avas a gal
lery in which Avas a large pipe organ, and above was a
small belfry. The bell used here is said to be the one
now in use on the German Reformed church, at least
Avhen that church Avas erected it was so stated. The M.
E. Church had a stone building on East John street, and
is now occupied as a residence. The Presbyterians had
a church on King street, which was destroyed by soldiers
during an early period of our late civil strife, the lot
being still unoccupied. The German Reformed wor
shipped in this church for a number of years. The
Catholics had a stone church located near the centre of
their present] cemetery. Protestant Episcopal church had
an abandoned church structure of stone, and its location
Avas at the entrance to their present cemetery. I cannot
recall where they worshiped until the present church
was erected, which Avas near 1850 — although I knew the

Reminiscence. 257
pastors in charge of Parish, a Mr. Johnson and Tallifaro,
after which came Rev. Mr. Chisholm, who volunteered
and nobly entered in company with the then Catholic
Priest, Rev. Mr. Plunkett, as nurses for afflicted yellow
fever patients in Norfolk and Portsmouth, both of whom
died in discharge of christian duty and charity. The
Lutheran Church has always occupied the present site-
on corner of Queen and Martin Streets, much improved
from its original structure, Avhicli Avas very plain and
unobtrusive. During the years 1888, '39 and '40, business began to
expand and stretch away from the centre of the town.
All the stores, dry goods, groceries, druggists, etc.,
had been on the now Grantham corner, also AVil-
son and Boreman property, up to the business house
now occupied by Frank Doll & Co., and were confined
within that limit. Railroad contractors began to come
in, and established stores in order to supply their em
ployees, selling and trading Avith the public just as the
regular established merchants. In 1832 we had but one
drug store, located in Commodore Boreman' s house, with
Israel Young as proprietor. Grantham Hall corner was
occupied by Thos. C. Smith ; AA^ilson corner, by John K.
AVIlson and AVilllam Anderson ; Continental corner, by
Isaac Locke ; opposite corner, now Sheriff's office, by
Alex. Robinson ; Frank Evans tobacco store, by Daniel
Burkhart and Geo. Doll ; store house of C. Thumel, by
AVm. Long & Sons ; Frank Doll & Co's stand, by a Mr.
Hogmire. The corner of the then Faulkner property,
now occupied by the People's National Bank, was used
by Robt. Rush, a son-in-law of Daniel Burkhart. Jacob
Hamme and James Stevens did business In the old Baker
building. Their trade Avas general merchandise, grocer
ies, hardware, queensAvare, and whatever people Avanted.
No one branch Avas confined to itself as is now often the
case. It Is a noted fact, often spoken of In my presence

IT

258 Reminiscence.
as true, that every merchant doing business under the
old regime and system failed.
In the fall of 1838 AA^m. Lucas, father of Hon. D. B.
Lucas, was the Democratic candidate for Congress. His
opponent Avas a Col. Barton, of Frederick County, the
AVhig candidate. Mr. Lucas Avas elected, the district
being 'overwhelmingly Democratic, embracing, If my
^lemory is not at fault, the counties of J eff erson, Clarke,
Page, AA'arren, Frederick, Berkeley, Morgan, Hampshire
and Hardy. The system of voting Avas tiva voce, or
-open spoken ballot. The right of suffrage was only given
to land owners and other property qualification. A land
owner could vote in each county where his name was en
tered In the Land Book if he could reach a voting place
Avithln three days, for which time the polls were kept
open. This system continued up to the year 1851 and
1852, at which time the new Constitution was adojDted,
that extended the right of suffrage to every white man
21 years of age and over, not disqualified by pauperism
©r mental Incapacity. The elections were confined ex-
€luslvely to Presidential, Congressional, State Senate
and Legislature. All county officers were appointed by
the Governor of State. Berkeley County was one of the
reliable old Federalist and AVhig counties of the State,
and Democracy was frowned upon with apparent con
tempt. Under the old regime of restricted suffrage all
the wealthy and leading citizens seemed to belong to that
party. General Boyd, whom I just remember. Col. Ed.
Colston, Moses Hunter, Col. E. P. Hunter, Judge Philip
Pendleton, Ca^jt. Van Doren, Col. R. A'^. Snodgrass, Col.
Jacob Myers, Benjamin Comeqy, AVm. T. Snodgrass,
Samuel Henshaw, AVilllam Cunningham, Andreiv Me
Cleary, Dr. Allen Hammond, Hon. C. J. Faulkner, Til-
Htson Fryatt, Barton Campbell, Jacob AA^eaver and many
others Avere leading, Avealthy citizens, and each one an
ardent Federalist and AVhig. On the other side ardent
Jackson Democrats were such men as Col. Robinson,

Reminiscence. 259
James AA^. Gray, AA^'ni Barney, George, Jacob and David
Seibert, Moses S. and Lewis Grantham, lame Mike Sei
bert, Dr. John Hedges, Dr. John S. Harrison, Dr. Thos.
S. Page, Dr. Chas. Magill, John and Jacob Painter,
Alex, and Geo. Newcomer, Abraham AVIlliamson, Geo.
and AVilllam SperoAv, Rev. John Light, Jacob, John and
Daniel Lefever, Samuel and Hezekiah Hedges, Peter
Gardner, John and Michael BIllm.ire, and many others.
The Democrats never failed having a candidate in the
field, but invariably met with defeat in county elections
for Legislature. For the State Senate the District was
alAvays reliably Democratic, as was also the case for Con
gress. The Presidential election of 1840, — M. Van
Buren, Democratic candidate, with AV. H. Harrison and
John Tyler as candidates of the AA^hlg party, Avas the
most exciting and strongest contest and furor that this
county has possibly ever passed through. General Har
rison was a noted successful Indian Avarrior, and very
popular as the Governor of NorthAvest Territoiity. He
lived in a plain log cabin on the prairies of Indiana, and
gave full, free entertainment to Avhomever called. His
customary drink was hard cider, handed in a common
gourd cup. His cabin was covered with coon skins.
This gave the AVhig party the opportunity to build log ¦
cabins on a wagon — the interior holding in large casks
his favorite drink, with live coons confined by chains on
the roof or wherever they could get a foothold. The
Democrats tried to bring the canvass within the province
of principles and discussion of political questions, but
were overthrown by the public furor and excitement of
honoring a good old soldier who had spent the flower of
his life in dangerous public . service on the frontier.
They could not be drawn from giving him the deserved
honor. He was a AVhig President without policy or
chart, and only lived one month. AVhen dying he Avas
succeeded by John Tyler, the elected Vice-President,
who had, all his previous life, been recognized as a Dem-

260 Reminiscence.
ocrat, and it was no surprise Avhen In forming his cabi
net, with the exception of Daniel Webster, Secretary of
State, that his selection should be of the conservative
Democratic element. He Avas cursed by the AVhIgs, but
ardently supported by Democrats.
The year 1841 was uneventful, except the fact that
process of grade and bridge building on the railroad was
in progress, with a large number of employes, most gen
erally of a foreign element. From about Vanclevesville,
on the East, to North Mountain, west of toAvn, the em
ployes were all from Ireland. Beyond that to near Sleepy
Creek, they were German — growing out of the fact that
contractors were Irish at one place and German at the
other. A Mr. AVm. O'Neal had the contract East of
town, from Green Hill Cemetery to about one mile East
of Opequon Creek. Immediately through the town a
Mr. Eads was contractor, and beyond Dry Run, AVest, a
German by name of Rotterman, was contractor. I knew
them all personally, as they were boarders at my home.
On St. Patrick's day of this year, an old gentleman by
name of Gallaher, was honored by the jokers of the town
in having a "paddy" hung upon'a tree in front of his
residence. He took it in as a good joke, and carefully
taking it down, gave it to us school boys that were pres
ent, provided we Avould carry it upon a board as a bier
and he would walk as chief mourner on the street to the
Everett House, which we did. The "paddy" Avas left
there in the care of a colored man for future use. On the
night of the 31st, "paddy" Avas removed to Tuscarora
Creek, at foot of John street, — carefully placed in the
water with one foot showing boot sole near the top, and
the balance of the body seen under Avater, which to every
appearance was a droAvnedman. AA"m. Reed, on his way
to the factory, made the discovery. He immediately re
ported the fact to the Coroner, Mr. Anthony Chambers,
who summoned a jury of inquest, and to the disturbance
of many a breakfast. Citizens o£ the town hastened to

Reminiscence. 281
this ghastly sight. The jury Avas placed solemnly on
each side of the bridge, and parties detailed to bring the
body out for view before them. One seized hold of the
floating leg, when off came the boot, exposing the straw
filling of the "paddy." At this moment arose the cry
loud and long, "April fool." It would be impossible to
describe the angry, vengeful excitement of the coroner,
jury and citizens, who had been so fearfully fooled.
In the month of December of this year, 1841, the trial
of a colored man name John, charged with the murder
of a Avhite man named Colbert, who lived near the mouth
of Opequon Creek, occurred before the County Court.
Jacob AVeaver was Chief Magistrate, with four Associate
Justices, and the full bench were present. He was con
victed and sentenced to be hung— time fixed in February,
of 1842. It Avas the only public execution that had taken
place since about 1830, of which event I only have a tra
ditionary knowledge. Three colored men were charged
and convicted of highway robbery, and were executed by
hanging on the AVinchester road near town. They claim
ed innocence, and predicted that it would be attested by
a fearful storm before the people dispersed from the
ground. It seemed to be a well established fact that
such storm did occur - of wind, rain and hall, which Avas
very destructive to growing corn, and also grain crops,
just harvested. The sympathy of the public was much
excited in behalf of this poor colored man John, and
great efforts were made for his reprieve, but without
avail. Time arrived for execution, and an immense crowd
assembled to Avitness it. He was placed upon his coffin
In an open barred ladder wagon at the jail door, and Avas
guarded by the Lafayette Guards, squad walking In close
double file on either side. Immediately folloAving were
the sheriff and Deputies — C. D. SteAvart, D. C. Burns
and Cornelius Comeqy, with Rev. Charles Martin, of the
Lutheran Church, his spiritual adviser. The column
commenced moving, John, singing In a quiet, plaintive-

262 Reminiscence.
touching tone the hymn "AVhen I can read my title clear
. to mansions In the skies, I'll bid farewell to every fear
and wipe my weeping eyes," which he kept up until the
gailows was reached. The place was just beyond Nor
borne Hall, or Cumberland Valley Depot, in a deep
ravine surrounded by rising rocky ground. I witnessed
his ascent to the platform — and farewell Avith the minis
ter, and immediately hastened away. The rope broke
and a fearful cry arose from the lookers on. John Avas
helped up and again ascended to the platform, from
which he Avas soon suspended. He was burled beneath
the galloAvs, from where his remains were removed and
dissected by the physicians of the toAvn, in an old aban
doned brew house on Spring alley, near Liberty Spring.
He was skinned and his hide tanned by a colored man
named AVm. Piper, who gave to a friend of mine a strip
of the hide that I have often seen used in sharpening a
razor. Nothing unusual, that I can recall, occurred this
year, 1842.
As usual and according to laAv, in the month of May
each year, the militia n^iet for field evolution and march
ing, and to ansAver to the call of their name from the
record of the regiment, as a member of the militia of the
State, It Avas preceded by four days drill of officers.
Captain and Lieutenants, with Major, Adjutant, Colonel
and other officers. Sometimes the General of Divis
ion Avould be present. General Carson, of AVinchester,
is the only live militia general that I had ever seen. Our
Colonels of Regiment 69, during my early days, Avere E.
P. Hunter, R. V. Snodgrass, and last, Jacob Sencindi-
ver, Avho Avas In command on last general muster iu May
1861. During the years 1842 and '48, rail-laying began
and passed beyond the toAA'n. One of the most wild and
excited times, occurred on general muster day, in^ one
of these tAvo years. The regiment had just been -formed
in marching order, AA-hen suddenlj', and for the first time,
the piercing whistle of a steam engine broke upon the

Reminiscence. ' '263
ear. Regiment, officers and men broke ranks, and run
ning pell-mell, were soon on the hill beyond the mill uoav
owned by Geo. M. Bowers, Avalting Avilh anxiety the
arrival of this monster. There was no more mustering,
and the day Avas given up to general drinking, carousing,
rioting and fighting.
In 1848 I became fully identified with the business of
the tOAvn, entering the store of R. P. Bryarly & Co. The
other merchants were G. and C. AV. Doll, John H. Li
kens, Mevorel Locke, D. S. AVhite, Hamme & Stevens,
JohnAV. Boyd, John Jamison, Washington Kroesen and
possibly others ; drug stores, AVm. Dorsey, A\^. H. He-
zeltine, and Adam Young. AVe had no clothing stores.
Cloths and casslmeres were manufactured into clothing by
regular tailors, who Avere Hiram Bowen, Hugh McKee,
Pat. Cunningham, Ezekiel Showers, Wm. Billmire and
John and Wm. Hoke, each of whom employed journey
men v/ith many apprentices. One confectionery and
cake stand was kept by George' Raenhal. During this
year one freight train with a passenger car arrived in the
early morning, and returning East In the afternoon. The
depot was a small shed roof building, occupying site of
stone Avail on your present platform, and Mr. John Jami
son was the agent. A_t or about this time Archibald
Oden opened his house as a hotel, where the present St.
Clair stands, and it became the leading hotel of the toAvn.
AVm. L. Boak occupied the Everett House as an hotel.
The market house for the town occupied a space in front
of King Street Hall, which was then the M. E. church.
It was a rough stone structure, with roof reaching very
near the ground, and open lattice wood-work for the
front — standing square on Queen street on a line with
Commodore Boreman' s residence. There Avas space all
round for market wagons. A good joke Avas played off
by the bad boys of the toAvn upon tAvo eccentric charac
ters named Gano, father and son. Jim and Dad were the
only names I ever heard for them. They attended mar-

264 Reminiscence.
ket often, <ind AA-ould drive their Avagon behind the mar
ket house, and there leave it for the morning. On this
occasion they were loaded with buckwheat flour. The
boys unloaded the wagon, detached the wheels, taking it
by pieces upon the roof and there replacing it In perfect
running order, carried up the buckwheat, reloaded it and
left. The opening of market was from 2 to 8 o'clock A.
M. On this particular morning it was dark, rainy and a
heavy fog prevailing. The wagon being missed an alarm
was raised, and officers of the town employed to find the
stolen property, without avail. When daylight came,lo,
and behold! on. the roof of the building was found the
stolen xsroperty intact with nothing missed. Ever after,
however. Dad and Jim took good care to drive their
wagon into the hotel yard. Another good and surpris
ing joke was perpetrated sometime previous to this. A
Mr. Wm. Thompson had running at large, and very tame,
a small jackass. The boys got hold of him one Saturday
night, took him up in the Court House, and from the
fiooT of the gallery raised Mm by block and tackle into
the steeple, and placing his head out of a window just
beloAv the hall, secured him and left. He Avas a great
animal for braying and gave always a very hideous sound.
On Sabbath m.orning, the people on their way to church,
were greeted by him looking out of the steeple Avindow.
Mr. Thompson and the toAvn authorities offered large re-
Avards to discover Avho committed this offence, however,
without success. Nothing that I can recall of moment
occurred during this year.
In 1844 came on the Presidential election. The Dem
ocrats presented James K. Polk for President and George
M. Dallas for A'Ice- President. The AA'hig party Henry
Clay and Theodore Frellnghuysen. The contest was
carried on fairly and honorably, with each advocating
clear and distint principles much animated, but no furor
and excitement. The question of admission of Texas as
a State being advocated by the Democrats and bitterly

Reminiscence. 265
opposed by the AA^higs, seemed to be the leading ques
tion, and gave success to the Democracy. It is my im
pression that before Polk took his seat, on March 4th,
1845, Texas Avas admitted by action of the Senate and
, loAver House, and approved by President John Tyler.
Early In 1845 John C. Fremont raised a company of vol
unteers for the purpose of exploring the Rocky Moun
tains. Among the number was a native of our county,
Henry Vincenheller, a millwright by trade, Avhich Iden
tified us with the grand undertaking and claimed our in
terest with its success or failure. No one ever appeared
to know Avhat became of him. Many of the volunteers
perished before Freemen t Avas heard from, as the con
queror of California in part. There was great activity in
raising recruits for the army, and many of our young
men enlisted, only two of Avhose names I can recall —
Samuel Caskey and John Myers. During the fall m^onths
the question of Avar with Me.xico Avas constantly before
us, finally reaching a climax by the call of the Govern
ment for volunteers. In the month of December daily
the fife and drum passed through the streets, morning
and evening each day, a new face appearing in the
¦company. Capt. E. G. Alburtis, Daniel Poisal, Otho
Harrison, a Mr. Gray, William Sherrard, Samuel K.
Stucky, John and Jim Bear, John Gallaher, John Ott,
a young Blondell and John Jamison Avere among the first.
After several weeks a company of 46 men was formed,
of which Dr. John H. Hunter and AA^m. Keefe were part.
Col. Hamptrammeck, of ShepherdstoAvn, Hon. C.J.Faulk
ner and others spoke at a public meeting, and It AA-as not
a great while until a company AA-as fully formed and left
for Fortress Monroe, the place of rendezvous for A"ir-
ginia volunteers. One came back, not passing examina
tion from loss of one eye. One, the young Blondel men
tioned, died at the fort. All the others, I believe, re
turned after peace AA'as declared Avithout injury in any
way, except Lieutenant Gray, of whom no information

266 Reminiscence.
Avas ever given as to his fate. The Avar closing, the
country was prosperous and largely extended in territory.
The year 1849 arrived, at which time came wonderful
reports of gold discoveries in California. Nearly every
one seemed disposed to strike out for the Avealth said to
lay on the surface of the ground, only waiting to be
picked up and brought into use. Many of our young
men joined companies and left, very few of Avhom have
ever returned, and many have perished from disease,
Avant, and neglect to provide and equip themselves for
such a trip through the Avilds of the Rocky Mountains,
which previous to Fremonts's exploration AA'as termed
the Great ximerican Desert, From the year 1844 up to
the year 1849, I occupied the position of Deputy Post
master under John H. Likens, and the position gave me
wonderful opportunity to know the people of both town
and county. In the Presidential year of election, 1848,
the Democrats presented Lewis Cass for President —
name for Vice-President not remembered. The whig
party presented the grand old warrier. General Taylor,
with Millard Fillmore for Vice-President. Owing to
dissension in NeAv York, M. Van Buren was run on a
local state question to some extent, and brought up for
the first time the question of Free Soil on Free Territory,
as against the Extension of Slavery. James BIrney also
ran as anavoAved slavery Abolition candidate — the result
being the defeat of Cass and success of Taylor ; the sla
very question entering largely Into the contest nationally
for the first time in my knowledge. Taylor lived but a
short time and Avas succeeded by Millard Fillmore, A'lce-
Presldent, Avho Avas a good man — conservative and na
tional in his recommendations and acts, but not popular
with the extremists of the south. There Avas Avonderful
agitation and excitement, and almost AA'ar, Avhich Avas
averted only by a compromise measure offered by Henry
Clay, but which opened up a question called the Missouri
Compromise, and again In a feAv years opened up the

Reminiscence. 267
full agitation of the slavery question. The South Avas
kept in a continuous condition of excitement, by the
strong and vicious talk of Avar for the protection of sla
very. The rights of the South and their violation by
the North, Avas a constant theme of discussion, both
public and private. There Avas no peace or quietness to
be found in any community south of the Potomac River.
In the year 1851, a convention for constitutional change
was called for and held. The delegates from our district
elected, Avere Dr. Dennis Murphey, Hon. Andrew Hunter,
Hon. C. J. Faulkner and one other, whose name I forget.
The constitution was .presented before the people and ap
proved by popular vote, which extended the right of
suffrage to every white man not disqualified by mental
incapacity or pauperism. This gave Berkeley County
a large Democratic majority for the first time va. Its his
tory, except on two occasions by dissension among the
AVhIgs, during the years 1846, '47 and '48 ; growing out
of arbitrary action by the County Court against the pro
test of many Justices, who resided outside of town. The
bridge crossing on South Queen street Avas washed out
by a great flood. The County Court, AvIthout summon
ing a full bench, appointed a committee to rebuild, also
to place under contract, AvhIch Avas greatly opposed.
However, the contract Avas given to AVm. Lester, and a
large debt created against the county. At a full bench
of Justices, the bonds of the county Avere issued upon
a very small majority vote This gave ilse to the cry
' 'Court House Clique, "and many positlveAVhigs determin
ed to defeat them in any nominations they might present
for Legislature. James E. Stewart, now Judge In Page
County, ran as an independent candidate as against
Whig nominees, and Avas elected, I believe. At the next
Legislative election. Dr. A. C. Hammond was an inde
pendent AVhig, who joined AvIth Lewis Grantham, Demo
cratic nominee, and they were elected, defeating Col. E.
P. Hunter and Col. Edward Colston, AA^hig nominees.

268 Reminiscence.
The election for county officers, under the neAv constitu
tion, came off in May, 1852. Jacob Van Doren, Jr.,
AVhig, Avas elected Sheriff ; E. G. Alburtis, County Clerk,
and Israel Robinson, Circuit Court Clerk, Democrats,
Avhich party was generally successful for all officers in
the county and for State Legislature, all through my
early boyhood days. The County Clerks office and re
cords Avere kept in a small stone house, east of the pres
ent jail. About the year 1848, the county erected the
brick house on public square, uoav owned and occupied
by Dr. AA^. D. Burkhart as a residence and store, which
AA'as used for County and Circuit Clerks' office until after
the new Court House Avas erected. The clerks. Circuit
Court, Col. John Strother, under appointment for years;
and Harrison AA'alte, County Clerk, after whose death
Capt. Jacob A-^an Doren became successor, held offices
until newly elected officers' terms commenced.
The Baltimore & Ohio Railroad, about the year 1849,
commenced the foundation for an engine house and machine
shops, and made Martinsburg a first-class station. AVash-
ington Kroesen erected a log store house directly opposite
the present depot, facing the railroad AA'ith switch coming
up to platform of house. He did a large grocery busi
ness, and commenced the erection of the stone building,
formerly the Railroad Co's. depot and freight house,
which Avas occupied first by AA^. H. Cronise & Co. They
did a rushing business, but soon failed, and John H.
Likens, my employer, Avas engaged in business therein,
I being his chief clerk and salesman. At this time the
Martinsburg and Potomac turnpike Avas put under con
tract — M. C. Kyne and P. J. Mussetter, contractors for
first 5 miles ; Henry Haines, 2 miles ; Charles Downs, 4
miles ; and Jeremiah Sullivan, remainder to the river.
Daniel Burkhart was President, and John H. Likens,
Secretary, the records and books being kept by myself
as Ms clerk. Messrs. Kyne and Mussetter threw up the
contract, which Burkhart and Likens took up and finish-

Reminiscence. 269
ed. Then I became time keeper and paymaster to the
employes. The State subscription was three-fifths, and
personal subscription tAvo-fifths. Collections from the
State were secured by approval of report by members of
the State Board of Improvement, and upon their requisi
tion the money was drawn from the old Valley Bank In
AA^inchester. The members of the Board were a Mr.
Pendleton, of Clarke Co., and Gen'l Carson, of Frederick
Co., and it Invariably devolved upon me, in person, to
visit and secure their names and order for payment of
money from the bank — thus becoming closely identified
with this, the first turnpike road in the county. The
AVinchester pike Avas commenced a feAV years later.
The town then began to expand. J. AV. Boyd pur
chased the vacant land on the south side of East Burke
street, and subdividing in lots, they were soon owned
and improved by buildings. The first, just beyond the
.bridge, was purchased by Jeremiah Smith, an old rail
road employs. On the opposite side J. AV. Hooper pur
chased, and immediately erected a building and ten-pin
alley, which was the first drinking saloon that I can re
call. He also erected a brick dwelling beyond. A Mr.
Chevally purchased a large body of land, and commenced
a vegetable and fruit garden. A Mr. Lohr erected a large
brick house, which stood alone for several years on the
present High street. Benj. R. Boyd erected the stone
building east of the railroad, on Queen street, and C. M.
Shaffer the stone store house, now occupied by C. M.
Shaffer & Son. Daniel Burkhart erected the small brick
houses on the south side of the street. The only house
between the railroad and Daniel Burkhart' s old residence
was a small wooden structure, owned and occupied b-y
Mrs. Kane and family, mother of Bishop Kane. A Mr.
Strine came, and purchasing from Mr. Burkhart, im
provement by building immediately commenced. This
I think was after 1850 or 1851. The old mill, then a grist
or corn mill, consisted of about one-story, 16x20 feet, and

270 Reminiscence.
occupied the present Fitz mill site with a saw-mill oj)po-
site. The Avater Avay from each ran on either side of a
tongue of land, on AvhIch Avas a fine large spring of clear,
cold water. The streams joined a short distance below,
and formed a wide, shallow water, through Avhich the
street ran. The hill from toAvn was very rough and
rocky, and the means of crossing was a narroAv log on
either side of this tongue of land, on which Avas the
spring. AVhere the railroad crosses Tuscarora Avas a
spring, and Avhen the bridge was built, an arch was left
open in the side of it so as to give access to the spring,
which I suppose is still to be found there. John H.
Likens erected the large stone building on the south side
of the railroad. About this period my direct business
relations Avith the town ceased. I moved to Bedlngton,
(Sulphur Springs,) yet Avas in town every Aveek, more or
less. Circuit Court being In session in the spring of 1852,
and contest for nominations of congressional candidates,
Henry Bedinger, having been our representative for sev
eral previous terms, Avas bitterly opposed, and AA"m.
Lucas sought the nomination in his stead. Democrats
were greatly divided in sentiment, and Bedinger suc
ceeded In securing the nomination. At the dinner table
of old Tammany were all, or nearly all, leading Demo
crats of the county. The subject came up, and many,
If not all, expressed their determination not to vote for
Bedinger. Some one suggested that Mr. Faulkner be
urged to run as an independent candidate, and in that
conference it was determined if he would give to them
certain pledges regarding his vote for speaker they would
vote for him.. A committee Avas informally appointed,
and before the hour of the next morning a circular was
posted announcing Mr. F. as an independent union can
didate for .Congress. He was elected, and again re
elected as a full-fiedged Democrat for the next term.
About this period Hon. John Blair Hoge, in his young

Reviiniscence. 271
manhood, took unequivocal positions as a Democrat.
The Presidential election approaching, theie arose in
Philadelphia a party naming themselves the "American
Party," who announced themselves as hostile to the A'ote
of foreigners — naturalized citizens coupling with that
hostility to the Catholic Church, denying them the right
to vote or hold office. The national conventions having
met, the Democrats presented for President Franklin
Pierce, and for A^lce-Presldent AVm. R. King. The
AVhIgs nominated General Winfield Scott for President ;
Vice-President not remembered. Previous to this elec
tion In the fall, Hon. Henry A. Wise v/as nominated for
Governor by the Democrats, and Hon. AA^. L. Goggin by
the AVhIgs — election occurring in May.
During the month of February, as one Avould pass on the
street, he would notice a large number of small three-
cornered pieces of paper with the Avord Sam written
thereon. During the evening, towards dark, citizens
would be asked to take a walk, and would find them
selves generally introduced into a long, one story stone
building, used as a school-house by a Mr. AA'^ebster, and
located on Raleigh street, near C. V. Depot. There, if
disposed, they would join the Darklantern KnoAvnothing
Organization, knoAvn publicly as the American Party.
Personally, I was solicited time and again to take the
walk. AVhen the exposure came by a withdrawal of a
number of Democrats, I then became familiar with their
mode of securing adherents. AVise was elected Gover
nor with the entire Democratic ticket. In the fall Pierce
and King were elected with almost unanimity, Scott
carrying only three or four States. The administration
proved very popular with both North and South.
About the year 1853 the cholera visited Harper's Fer
ry, and an epidemic violent in form. Many citizens left
for safety. A family by the name of Crowl, owning a
farm in the vicinity of Gerardstown, moved part of the
family — the old gentleman, wife and three daughters.

272 Reminiscence.
They brought the disease AvIth them, and all died, be
sides many in the neighborhood. A son coming from
the Ferry hired a horse and buggy from George Swimley,
proprietor of the Everett House. It Avas a very popular
hotel and filled Avith permanent boarders. On one Sun
day evening the son returning, drove up in front of the
hotel, but remained sitting iu the buggy. Some one,
upon going to him, found him in Avhat is termed a col
lapsed state of cholera. The alarm Avas raised, and Mr.
Swimley coming forward, took the man in his arms and,
carrying him in, proceeded to his own bed-room, where
he placed him in bed and sent for physicians. Imme
diately the guests began to leave, when Mr. Swimley
came to the head of the steps- and announced that all
might leave — that he Avould care for the sick man, let the
consequences be what they might. His house was closed
for three days by the town authorities, except at one
door on Burke street, at the end of Avhich it was an
nounced the young man was getting well. The alarm
ceased, and he Avas deservedly more popular than before.
He exhibited the true charity of the good Samaritan, and
although Ms manners were unrefined and his habits pos
sibly would not meet the approval of many, yet, thank
God for such unselfish Christian characters as he.
Coming into Martinsburg in the early morning
for market. In the latter part of June or early In July,
1854, I heard proceeding from the house on corner of
Race and Queen streets, the most piercing screams.
Proceeding up Queen the same sounds of agony came from
a house opposite the present Valley House. Turning
the corner of Martin Street, the same greeting met me
from the house in the rear of the Lutheran Church.
Being at my old home, I learned that Mrs. Geo. Raen
hal had died from cholera, and upon going doAvn town
by nine o'clock, I found that nine persons Avere dead
from cholera. On the Monday previous, Miss Kate
Homrich and Thos. Turner died. From this time f orAvard

Reminiscence. 273
the towuAvas In a fearful condition, more or less deaths
occurring every day, until toAvard the latter part of
August Avhen it abated. It again broke out in violence
about the middle of September, and continued with less
fatal effects until some time in November. Thefirst
body buried in Green Hill Cemetery was that of Mrs.
Geo. Raenhal or Horace Woodward, an engineer in the.
railroad service, who also died from this fatal disease..
A lawyer of the town, David H. Conrad, organized a re
lief or nurse body of volunteers, Avho would agree to-
give two nights a Aveek, If necesrary, in waiting upon the
sick and seeing the dead properly prepared for the grave.
It proved an important aid to physicians. In the month
of November, B. L. Jacobs, Railroad agent, being very
ill, solicited me to take charge of the Railroad ticket
and freight office for him temporarily, which I did ; the
freIgM depot being on North Queen street, about where
present house stands, and the passenger and ticket sta
tion being at foot of Martin street, as at present. AVash -
ington Kroesen built a brick hotel, which became a pas
senger eating housg, and was conducted by Henry Staub
for several years, during which time the railroad company
built a fine brick hotel on North Queen street opposite
Bishop's store. They removed and located the passen
ger and freight business at that iDoInt, where it remained
until the j)roperty was burnt In early part of civil Avar.
The years 1855, '56 and '57 were uneventful, except for
rapid progress in business and population. During the
years 1858, '54 and '55, Mr. Sam'l Fitz purchased from
Daniel Burkhart the old oil mill, and began improve
ment by sinking Tuscarora and building the present
grand mill in part, and his foundry and machine shops ;
the creek being spanned by the bridge, and the street
filled to its present level. In 1858, my connection Avith
town and county business by being elected teller of the
Bank of Berkeley, gave me an opportunity for gathering
much knowledge Of the business affairs of the county and

274 Reminiscence.
surrounding country. During and preceding this period,
from possibly 1848, flour was manufactured and shipped
to Eastern markets in very large quantities. Alfred
Roi^p, D. D. Rees, James McWhorter, and some one
from the J. E. Boyd mill, at Bunker Hill, Avere large
shippers ; as also the Newcomer mill, on the Opequon ;
the HIbbard and Tabb mills, west of toAvn ; the Geo. H.
McClure, now Hannis mill ; and the Bower's mill, in tOAvn,
and Thos. G. Flagg, east of town. Daniel Burkhart had
a small distillery on Dry Run, where the present large
Hannis distillery uoav stands, and F. G. Flagg distilled
liquor at his place east of town.
On the morning of the 9 th of October, 1859, a citizen,
W. N. Riddle, Esq., Avas seen to hastily enter the Court
House, and soon the bell was pealing forth a rapid and
excited sound, which only occurred in case fire was pre
vailing. Citizens began hastily to collect, and as they
assembled it Avas announced that Harper' s Ferry Armory
had been captured, :j,nd citizens of the town Avere being
shot down upon the streets, and Avere calling for aid to
capture and discover what it meant. It was announced
that a train of cars Avould be ready to proceed there, car
rying volunteers, who Avould arm themselves with such
weapons as they could. In a short time Capt. E. G.
Alburtis, an old Mexican war veteran, was selected to
command, and other officers appointed. By 11 o'clock
they were ready, and going to the depot, took the train,
AvhIch proceeded to the Ferry, accomj)anied by a large
number of unarmed citizens. Our men were stopped
this side of the Ferry, and ordered to enter the Armory
yard at west end, and there remain for further orders.
Instead of AA-hich, in impetuosity, they pressed forward
until they came under fire from Brown's men, who had
been driven into the small engine house, from which the
Marines under General Lee captured them. George
Murphy, our Prosecuting Attorney, was wounded
through the calf of Ms leg ; J. N. Hammond, our Dep-

Reminiscence. • 275
uty Sheriff, had the point of his hip shot off ; a young
man in the railway service was shot through the stomach ;
George AA'ollett, assistant in the service, Avas shot through
the hand ; and George Richardson, a railroad watchman,
had his right eye shot out. It was ahvays claimed, that
if they had been properly supported, they would have
succeeded in capturing the invaders before the marines
arrived. No one could describe the excitement pre-valllng.
At about 6 o' clock in the evening, our wounded boys
came back. They and the citizens could only say that
it was a negro insurrection commenced, which only in
creased the excitement and alarm. During the night it
was announced that the marines had captured them, and
that old John Brown, knoAvn as a Kansas Free State
Fighter, was the leader, with negro and AvhIte men as
abettors. It was remembered with alarm that for months
a deaf and dumb strange negro man had appeared in pe
culiar dress upon the streets of the town, marching as if
under military orders, always near sundown. His plug
silk hat was adorned with a feather from a turkey' s tail,
and a band of red flannel round the body of the hat.
He was generally supposed to be insane, and no atten
tion was ever paid him. It is certain, however, from this
day forward he was never seen again. Hence he has al
ways been coupled, in my mind, as an aider of the Brown
gang. From this day forward, until the final close of the
civil strife by surrender of General Lee, in April, 1865,
we were under military surveilance and control. The
business of the town, although disturbed, still continued
unobstructed. Personally, I removed from town to the
residence of my mother in-law, on the Potomac River,
going to and from town each day and familiar with what
was occurring. Scouts and military organizations were
going to and returning from different points along the
Potomac every day, on the lookout for further forays by
such wicked fanatics as John Brown and his gang. Daily
reports of a startling character being stated of a large or-

276 Reminiscence.
ganizatlon of rescuers of Brown, who Avas in Jefferson
County jail, Avere coming In on us at any hour. It was
a period of unrest and disquietude. Indeed.
The Presidential election of 1860 coming on. Demo
cratic dissension placed John C. Breckenridge and Ste
phen A. Douglass before the people. The then lately
organized party, under the name of Republican having
absorbed the AVhig party North, selected Abraham
Lincoln as their candidate — the Union Party, as called,
presenting John Bell, Avhich largely absorbed the Whig
element South. The election came off, resulting as
known in the selection of Lincoln. The already inflamed
and excited people of all parties flew almost at once into
an attitude of war in the South. In the early months of
the year 1861, we were startled with neAvs of the burning
of Government property at Harper's Ferry, by the
officers and soldeirs, who had been stationed there as
guards, and their rapid movement to AVashington. In
a f OAv days it developed, why it had been done by the
concentration of military forces, representing as stated,
state authority. It had been distroyed by orders from
the war department, in order to defeat its capture of
arms and ordinance stored in the Armory, by the
Southern mei^. From this time forward. Harper' s Ferry
Avas the scene of many exciting circumstances. Shortly
after this the Armory proper Avas dismantled, — all the
machinery for arms and manufacture were removed;
some said to Richmond, others to North Carolina.
Our yearly General Regimental parade coming on in
month of May, 1861, occasioned wonderful excitement.
The officers determined to march under the State Flag,
discarding the stars and strlxoes of the country. Perso
nally, being an ardent supporter of the Government as
against secession, I joined with others in securing a large
part of the Regiment, Avho carried and marched under
the grand old Stars and Stripes, In defiance of orders
from the officers. It almost brought on personal rioting

Reminiscence. 277
and fighting, and if arms had been at command, it is
probable much blood would have been shed. This gave
occasion for officers in command at Harper's Ferry to
send a military company here to keep down the Union
sentiment. It was the Rockbridge Guards, under com
mand of Capt. Letcher ; and they proved good fellows,
largely in sympathy Avith the Union sentiment Capt.
Letcher was ordered to burn the Railroad bride crossing
Opequon Creek. He refused to obey orders, was put
under arrest and removed, his comijany also returning to
Harper' s Ferry. In their stead the Clarke County Greys
were sent up, and under orders they burnt the bridge.
This incensed Union men very much, and members of the
company Avould, individually, receive an unexpected
lick or knock-doAvn whenever opportunity occurred in
the hotels of the town. They had headquarters in Gran
tham Hall building, and every afternoon would drill in
the square. One Saturday afternoon it Avas noticed that
many persons, citizens, and employes of the Railroad
Company, collected on the Court House pavement. The
military formed as usual in time, in front of the Col.
Hoge, noAv J. B. AVIlson residence, facing the crowd.
On the Court House pavement commenced loud and
vociferous comments upon their appearance and drill, and
finally some one threw a stone, striking a gun in the
hands of a member of the company. Many In the com-
jDany brought their guns to shoulder, ready to shoot.
The croAvd made a break toward them, but before reach
ing them, they had dispersed and Avere mounting steps
to their headquarters. The crowd hooted and howled
for some time, but the soldiers kept within their quar
ters, and finally the crowd dispersed. This was the
only assault on the military I ever Avitnessed in town.
A Regiment of cavalry, under the command of J. E.
B. Stewart, came next, and camped in the county, scout
ing along the Potomac River. They were seldom in a
body in the town— hence, no collision ever came up.

278 Reminiscence.
Still continuing m^y trips daily, to and from town, at
tending my bank duties, I passed through cavalry camp
morning and evening ; they being In the orchard of
John C. Small, on Martinsburg and AVilliamsport pike.
Holding a pass from Col. Stewart, I was surprised one
eyening upon arrival at picket post by arrest, being
conducted to Col. Stewart's tent. I Avas met with the
charge of being dangerous in conveying news to the
enemy, then in force on the Maryland side of the river ;
my residence being in sight of the river and my senti
ments being hostile to the South. I offered simply inno
cence of having conveyed information, or of having such
disposition. Hoge being present, appealed in my be
half, and I was released with a more far reaching pass
than I had before. On the 2nd day of July, 1861, the
Bank closed up Its business, all its funds, books, bonds,
etc., being placed in the hands of a committee for safe
keeping. From this time forAvard to 1872, I was only a
casual visitor to the town. In 1863, I became identified
with the railroad service, located at Cumberland, Md.
In January 1864, I was in charge of Harper' s Ferry
agency, and was every week a visitor to your town In
transaction of business for the company with the mili
tary authorities — hence, I knoAv but little of the history
of the town after 1861.
The fight between General Jackson ancj Patterson's
forces, near Falling AVaters, Avas under my view. Shortly
after it opened, In company with John Marshall and
Henry Myers, avIio lived at Bedlngton, Ave passed out to
see what was on fire, a dense smoke appearing, and found
Wm. Porterfield' s barn burning. The Confederate' s Avere
in battle array on the hill between Mr. Hill's residence,
just where the road turns off to the Falling Waters
church. Unexpectedly we found ourselves captured by
the 4th AVisconsIn Regiment, who were flanking to the
south side of the burning barn. AVhen we recovered
our surprise the Confederates had retired, and we sup-

Reminiscence. 279
posed, continued their retreat to and beyond Martins
burg. On our way to have a hearing one dead man with
a ball through Ms head was seen lying on the pike, and
was a member of the 4th AVisconsIn regiment. At Mr.
Porterfield' s residence was found five severely Avounded
Federals, and under an apple tree was a dead man, sup
posed to be a Confederate by his dress. At the house
of John Gonter three wounded Federals were found, one
of whom had the most singular appearance I have ever
seen. His head lay perfectly level on the right shoul
der, and on his neck, under the left ear, appeared a large
blood blister. His body was paralyzed. The surgeon
said it was caused by abrasion — a small sized six-pound
canon ball having passed between the ear and shoulder,
not striking, but just rubbing against the skin. The
wounded Federals were placed in ambulances and went
back to Maryland. The dead Confederate Avas buried in
the field back of Porterfield' s barn.
The seasons, winter and summer, in our latitude, are
generally uniform, but there have been exceptions. I
cannot recall the year, but it was from 1836 on to 1840 —
one summer it Avas uniformly cold, with frost occurring
more or less in each summer month — during which, about
the middle of July, an old revolutioniry veteran was
burled. His remains were taken to a graveyard in the
country, possibly at the old Baptist Church, near the
Newcomer mill ; anyhow it was out that way. Being
buried Av-ith military honors, the boys of the toAvn natu
rally Avould be present. I distinctly recollect the fact
that Avhilst the salute over the grave Avas being fired, it
commenced snowing and continued until the ground was
covered fully three inches, becoming fiercely cold. The
past year, 1887, being a noted year for fierce blizzards
and wonderful snow storms in various parts of our coun
try, calls my attention to a wonderful suoav storm AvMch
we had in 1842, in the early part of February. It com
menced snoAving on Fridays, about noon, falling rapidly

280 Reminiscence.
and continuing all day Saturday, Sunday and Monday ;
and in the afternoon of Monday, still snowing, a fierce
driving wind came on. On Tuesday morning the entire
country was blocked up, and in front of my home, on
the southeast corner of Shaffer's property, a laige drift
was standing which reached the roof of the house. A
gentleman by the name of Vincenheller, seizing me,
caught me by the clothing and threAv me into this drift
headforemost. Unfortunately, I fell too far near the
edge, sustaining a wounded right shoulder by striking on
the ground. I could not rise, and he becoming alarmed,
had to take a snow bath through the drift in order to re
lieve me. This accident gave me the jjleasure of a daily
sleigh ride all over the county, as he was fond of the
sport and had a fine team to make amends for his act,
and would take me with Mm. No fences could be seen
in any direction, and in many places in the woods the
lower limbs of the trees were hid under the snoAV. This
was the most severe snow storm we may have ever
had in the valley. In 1856 there were great snoAv falls,
and the railroads, also country roads, were blocked up,
but no such continuous storm as that of 1842.
The resident ministers of the town from 1828 to 1861,
as far as I can recall, were : Lutheran — C. P. Krauth, Sr.,
Medtart Schaffer, AVeizer Martin, Sprecher Seip, AA^'Inter
Krauth, Jr., Schonucker Fenk Kopp ; 1861, C. Martin.
German Reformed — Revs. Robt. Douglas, Daniel Bra-
gonier ; both these churches Avere united usually AvIth
Shepherdstown. Presbyterian — Revs. Peyton Harrison,
John Boggs, a Mr. Berry and A. C. Hopkins. Protest
ant EpiscojDal — Revs. Johnson, Talifaria, Chisholm,
Davis, Sprigg and others. Methodist Eijiscojjal — Revs.
Riley, AA^atts, Hodges, Goheen, Coffin, Dulln, Mercer,
March, Moorehead and many others. Baptist — Revs.
Wm. Herndon, AA^. S. Penick and others. Catholic -
Rev. AA'^heelan, aftei'Avard Bishop of Diocese of AA". A^a.;
Revs. Plunkett, O'Brien and Talty.

Reminiscence. 281
Among the professional men were : Physicians — Drs.
Richard McSherry, KoAvnsler, Holllngsworth, John S.
Harrison, Sr. and Jr., Charles Magill, Dennis Mur];)hy,
F. D. Dellinger, Wm. Snodgrass, Thos. S. Page and E.
B. Pendleton. Dentists— John Little and AA"". P. AA^Ith-
row. Judges of Circuit Court — J. R. Douglass, of Jef
ferson County, and Richard Parker, of Frederick Coun
ty. Lawyers— D. H. Conrad, E. P. Hunter, C. J. Faulk
ner, Edmond Pendleton, J. Blair Hoge, Frank Thomas,
Norman Miller and Andrew Kennedy. Editors— AVash
ington Evans, Col. E. P. Hunter, James E. Stewart and
Norman Miller, of Gazette; E. G. and Samuel Alburtis
and Major Israel Robinson, of the Virginia Republican.
From my earliest days the parish, (uoav called the poor-
house,) occupied the present building knoAvn as Norborne
Hall. A Mr. James Moon was the keeper, and supplies
were furnished by^ J. AV. Boyd. At one time there AA-as
quite a political scandal in regard to the improper use of
inmates, and the enormous profits made in supplying the
house, which finally resulted In the Court buying the
present farm and buildings on Tuscarora. I think this
was about the year 1850. The old Court House occupied
in part the locality of the present one. It did not come
to the corner of Queen street, but left a space fully thirty
feet. The corner was occupied by a frame building Avith
brick back dAvellIng house, and Avas the best store stand
in town. It occupied the space noAv about whei'e Sher
iff's office stands.
The first telegraph office that we had in town Avas In a
frame building, occupying the corner of Grantham Hall,
the line coming direct uid King street and diverging from
the railroad at the Bower's mill. I was boarding at the
corner of Spring and King streets, and opposite on the
jail steps, upon one occasion, sat tAvo of our aged men,
Jesse Hayden and Adam Schoppert.
Adam says: "Jesse, hoAv does this thing A\oik, any-

282 Reminiscence.
how ? I have been AA'atohing It for the last hour and
nothing has gone over it yet."
Jesse replied : " AVhy, Adam, It is a liquid and floAvs
inside the wire, and you can't see it. AVhen It gets to
the end it comes out."
"How's that," says Adam, "I seen Joe, my son, get a
telegraph from Harper's Ferry, and it Avas just like any
other letter."
" AVell," replied Jesse, " It Is a d— d puzzler, anyhow,
and I believe a fraud."
AVithout solving the problem of the telegraph they
closed their conversation, and I expect they were not the
only ones Avho were puzzled over the same matter.
AA^'e had many eccentric characters about town, and
amongst others Avas one. Adam Cockburn. He owned
and lived on the property uoav owned by E. Herring, di
rectly opposite Green Hill Cemetery. Every day Adam
was In town, usually visiting the various bar-rooms until
full, and he would then perambulate the streets, making
fun for everybody. Personally, I only have a vague
knoAvledge of him and his habits. His place was long
used as a resort for the boys of the town, as a play
ground. Many a pleasant hour have I passed with my
boy friends in playing ball on the familiar Cockburn Hill.
The community yet has in it a representative of the long
ago, Alexander Grimes. He has always been a peculiar
character. His home for a long time Avas with my rela
tives at old Tammany. Much of the filling, grading and
macadamizing of King and Queen streets Avas done with
his assistance. His habits for a long time were very dis
sipated. However, he made ui? his mind to quit drink
ing, and purchasing a pint of liquor he took it to his
sister Polly, telling her he Avould only drink from that
bottle, and that she should refuse to glA-e It to him. The
plan Avorked splendidly, and from tliat day to the pres
ent I have never knoAvn him to be under the influence of
liquor. (Tf seen he Avill verify this statement.) He has

Reminiscence. 283
ahvays been noted for sharp repartee, and quick to take
advantage in a bargain. I recall an occurrence between
himself and one of our prominent lawyers. He Avas oc
cupying a house, the owner of Avhich wished to dispossess
him, and he applied to this lawyer for advice, receiving
and acting upon it. . He retained the property, and the
lawyer told Mm his fee was five dollars — all right. Some
weeks after, in passing the garden of the lawyer, he
found the wife assisting in measuring off beds, by hold
ing the tape line for her husband. He was invited to
come in, and the lawyer taking him around, shoAved him
what he wished to do, and would every uoav and then
say, as an old gardener, do you think that would suit %
Aleck, (as he is called,) would give his opinion, and the
1 awy er would thank him. Afterpassing some time Aleck
says, "I believe I owe you five dollars for your advice
about the house." The lawyer said " yes," and looked.
expectantly at the prospective coming fee, but was sur
prised to hear Aleck say, "AVell, my fee for garden
advice is ten dollars, so you are In debt to me five." The
lawyer honoring it as a good joke, immediately paid him
the difference. Another good and sharp practice occur
red between Aleck and a Jew, by the name of Pf elffer.
They occupied the same house on Queen street, where
Lambert's saloon now Is. The Jew had a cord of wood
to be cut for stove use, and he ai^plled to Aleck, who did
that kind of work, but would not agree on the price de
manded. Finally Aleck agreed to cut the wood for the
chips, Avhich Pfeiffer agreed to. They used in common
the cellar, and Aleck had his children picking up the
chips and throwing them doAvn. Commencing, he would
cut two-thirds of the stick into chljps and the remainder
into stove wood. AVhen Pfeiffer discovered the fraud
practiced, he sued Aleck, but his bargain was such that
Aleck gained it.
AVe had a very good but eccentric character, James
Hutchinson, engaged in Avatch and clock repairing at the

284 Reminiscence.
present Hyde stand. He never Avalked on the street, but
was invariably in a run. A noted character. Smith, the
razor strap man, visited our town, and his cry was always
" only a few more left — who takes the next ? " He sold
at auction on the street, and Mr. H. desiring one of the
wonderful straps, started In his usual running gait.
Catching the words "only a few more left," he called
out, "Save me one." Smith seeing Mm and hearing
Avhat he said yelled out, "Only one more left." Mr. H.
quickened his run, and reaching the crowd took the
"one more." Looking down he noticed seven baskets
full, and left at once, muttering as he jjassed, " Oh, what
a liar ! " The first railroading that I ever saw occurred
with himself and family. The track Avas laid as far as
the bridge at the foot of Green Hill Cemetery, and a
truck was standing on the track chucked. The old gen
tleman, on his Avay to church on Opequon, placed his
AvIfe and younger children upon it, and himself and
eldest son pushed It. After passing a short distance a
down grade commenced. The old gentleman or son
could neither stop the car, or yet keep up with it. It
got UAA'ay from them, and mother children soon passed
out of sight. • Brown Calvin and myself being near
Flagg' s Mill, followed the car and found that it had come
to a halt near Opequon, having struck a rising grade.
After some time the old gentleman came in sight In his
usual run, and was very grateful, apparently to Calvin
and myself, for saving his family.
Peter Gardner, the old hotel keeper whom I mentioned
before, Avas a grand caterer to his guests, and no one ever
set a better prepared or more plentiful supjDly upon a
table. On a court occasion his country guests Avere de
tained on account of a German boarder Avliom he would
not delay. He placed upon the table a good-sized roast
pig, and the single boarder took his seat and helped him
self. After aAA-hile Mr. G., upon going to the room, Avas
surprised to see none of the pig left, and the boarder, in

Reminiscence. 285
a deejj German accent, said, "Have you any more little
hogs? I likes 'em." Mr. G. at once dismissed the
boarder as unprofitable.
Very few of the old landmarks of my boyhood days
are left around or in the town. The Burkhart property,
Hannis mill, BoAvers mill, Boyd's store, in Young's, now
Herring's property; Lamberts saloon, formerly Clay-
comb Hotel ; Eagle Hotel, formerly Lutheran Church ;
Blondel dwelling, Dunn property, opposite Market
House ; Long property, now owned by C. Thumel ; brick
store-house adjoining Continental Hotel ; Boreman prop
erty, Conrad, McSherry, Cunningham, Stewart, Reed,
Campbell, Pendleton and Harrison Waite, on Queen
street, are all improved considerably, but some are recog
nizable as they were in the thirties. On King street the
Diffenderfer, Rousch, Shaffer, AVolff, Swartz, Snodgrass,
old Harrison, Shaffer, Poisal, Somerville, uoav Shaffer ;
Locke, now Young ; Alburtis, jail, old stone house cor
ner opposite jail. Seaman, Gerard and Bowers' mill and
dwelling, all improved but still recognized as of old. On
Water street, where the Riddle and Showers properties
are now situated, was a long one -story building used as
a bark shed for Divinney's Tannery, and long owned by
James BroAvn. On the opposite side was a general stone
quarry for the tOAvn. Tuscarora was noted as a fine fish
ing stream. Many a fine sucker and eel have I seen and
caught therefrom. Above the Hannis mill was called
Ransom's Bottom, and the evidence of a great Indian
battle having been fought there Avas very clear. Many
a skull and bone of a dead Indian have I seen ploughed
up, and the only tomahawk I ever recollect of handling
was one found by a young boy named Alex. Gregory.
We were fishing and playing, Avhen in tumbling he struck
the handle and drew it out. Your Dr. John H. Hunter
may recall this, as I think he was one of the company.
It was a very great joleasure during my young days to
visit in the surrounding country, near town, on the AVin-

¦^86 Reminiscence.
Chester road, the families of Martin Rousch, Snodgrass,
old Jimmy Beard and John Jamison. On Tuscarora road
the Kearneys, old Jacob and George Seibert, the Mong
family. Barley Tabb, Hugh Campbell, the Cushwas, Kil
mers, Hibbards, Janneys, Wellers and AValters families,
all of Avhom would Avelcome you cordially and entertain
you royally. Hospitality and good fellowship was the
order of the times. There has always been an idea that
there Avas more real honesty and Integrity at that period
of our history than since. It is a noted fact that farm
ers would loan each other money without passing any
thing more than their word on such a day it should be
returned, and very seldom a failure of promise would
occur. '
Many of our people of the present day do not recollect
the beautiful stone pillowed bridge that occupied the
ground now filled with solid stone structure, from Burke
street to beyond the Bowers mill. The rebels destroyed
it in their frenzy of insanity and destruction of
railroad property during the civil war. Quite
a number of engines were fixed up and per
mitted to run off into the street below, which Avas
obstructed for a long time. One of the most unusual
sights was witnessed in our town during the war. The
Rebels wishing to get some engines to AVinchester,
hauled them by horse-power over the road. They had
hitched to one engine from tAventy to twenty-four horses,
a driver being provided for each four. They succeeded
in getting them through, but it must have been a difficult
job. The destruction of railroad property was immense
around and in Martinsburg. As a matter to satisfy my
curiosity, I rode from Tabb's crossing to road crossing
just above town, and in that space counted over four
hundred cars destroyed by fire, the rails removed and
ties burnt. At one point I found a rail wound around a
tree four times. They had heated the centre, and then
taking hold of ends, Avound it round and round. The

Reminiscence. 287
station and hotel buildings at head of Queen street, and
the engine and machine shops, were destroyed and dis
mantled. It was my misfortune to be absent from town
when this A\-as done, but the Avrecked and ruined condi
tion was seen by me often. It afterwards became my
duty as an employe at Cumberland of the Company, to
see that material for rebuilding the track and bridges
was sent forward, so that I became very familiar with the
whole subject.
The subject of fires is one that, from yo-ar present effi
cient organization and Avater supply, gives your people
very little uneasiness. AVhen I was a boy we had a hand
engine, and our water supply was from cisterns on pub
lic streets — one at Court House, one at Lutheran Church
corner, one at Presbyterian Church on King street, uoav
vacant lot. Each family was furnished with two leather
buckets, one of which hung out at the door, and Avas to
be filled with Avater every night, the other kept conveni
ently inside, also filled uj). This Avas the instruction
from the town authorities. We had no Mayor and Coun
cil then, that I can recall. The first fire that I recall was
the burning of a large stable belonging to the Globe
Hotel, and occupying site of your present public school
in third ward. It was about noon that alarm Avas given,
and quite a number of horses, belonging to country peo
ple, were burned. After this the factory at lower end of
town, where Avater works now stands, was burnt, and
occurred late at night. It was never thought possible to
save a house, and all effort Avas directed toward saving
the surrounding property. Next came the destruction
of the Globe Hotel, after which the corner house, then
occupied as a telegraph station and located on site of
Grantham Hall, was burned completely up. The most
alarming fire that I can recall was the burning|Of four
'houses on King street, opposite the late J. M. Wolff resi
dence, which commenced between 12 and 1 o'clock, P.
M., in the cabinet-maker's shop of Andrew Bowman.

288 Reminiscence.
The Avind was blowing almost a hurricane from the West,
and it was but a few moments until the entire row of
houses was in a blaze. Shingles were on fire and sparks
innumerable were settling everywhere, and in a short
time, on South side of street, fully twenty house-roofs
were on fire. It became necessary for from ten to fifteen
persons to be upon each house, in order to save them. I
doubt if your old town has ever experienced a more ex
citing time from fire. The buildings burnt were very old
and dilapidated. The Kelley Hotel on Martin street, a
very large weatherboard building, was also burnt, be
longing to Capt. Gardner. He was vexed about the loss,
and coming to the church corner, tried to throw supply
hose out of the cistern. In doing so he slipped and pas
sed into the cistern feet foremost, but being a large man
he was caught about the hips and there held, until he
was relieved after great efforts. Col. Strother' s house,
on site now occupied by H. C. Berry, Avas burnt one night
in the month of February, when it was so cold the water
froze in the hose and disabled the engine.
The Avater supply of our old town was from public
wells on the streets. One was in front of Lambert's sa
loon, one at the Schoppert corner, one on the corner of
Burke and German streets, one in front of the Janney
property on King street, which belonged to Conrad
Rousch, and one at John Shaffer's residence. Many per
sons had wells upon their own premises, and large sup
plies Avere hauled daily from the various springs around
town. It was between 1848 and 1860 that the system of
cisterns was introduced. Messrs. S. B. and N. Mead
brought into use the cement and concrete cistern, Avhich
is still much in use by builders. The condition of coun
try around the town has changed wonderfully. At the
road leaving the ]pike at lime kiln, north end of town,
there Avas a nice grove of woodland, frequently patron
ized by Sunday School pic-nics. Just above the Hannis
Mill, AA'here the Cumberland Valley bridge crosses the B.

Reminiscence. 289
& O. R. R., woods commenced, and you could keep in
Avoodland without break until you reached Hedgesville.
On Tuscarora road, just beyond toll-gate, a heavy piece
of woodland occupied the ground.- Immediately in rear
of Gen'l Boyd's residence, coming up to his yard, wood
land commenced and continued without break above the
Big Spring, except one field. Then a good deal of cleared
land, belonging to the Tate and Snodgrass families. Then
came in a body of woodland on the west side of the AVin
chester road, which extended almost without a creak
until Apple Pie Ridge was reached, where the Lyle's,
Henshaw' s, and other large farmers lived with much land
cleared and cultivated. Just back of the Jamison, late
Bentz farm, a body of woodland commenced and contin
ued to the mountain with very few, if any breaks.
Out near the present residence of A. J. Thomas was
a grand grove, where almost every celebration of the 4th
of July was held, in barbecue style. But few, if any of
the new generation are familiar Avith the system of a bar
becue, and I will therefore try to describe the manner
of preparation of the food. The entire carcass of a num
ber of sheep and hogs, and sometimes the full carcass of
a steer, would be prepared for the feast. A deep pit was
dug and filled with such fuel as would burn down to a
bed of live coals. This was spanned with bars of iron,
on which was laid the carcass for broiling, and along side
would be a large pot filled with liquid butter, lard, etc.,
which would be applied by a mop to the cooking meat.
As one side became partially done, the other would be
turned to, the fire by heavy pieces of wood, used as a
crowbar. When fully roasted or broiled, no one ever
tasted sweeter food. It generally came, however, after
fatigued marching and latd in the afternoon, hence was
always appreciated. The meat was always accompanied
with good bread, and generally new potatoes and beans
—"Oh, for one more old-fashioned fourth of July cele
bration." 19

290 Reminiscence.
I have given a few names of farmers in the Immediate
vicinity of Martinsburg. It was my good fortune to be
come well and familiarly acquainted with persons who
lived at a distance, and whose representatives are still in
your county. No more clever class of people could be
found than many in and around Arden, among whom
were the Chenowiths, Millers, Gladdens, Lyles, Hen-
shaAvs, Sencindivers, Sanakers, Thomas, McDonalds,
Daniels, Throckmortons, Irelands, Meyers, Bayarlys,
Tablers, Campbells, AValkers, PItzers, "of the old
stock" ; — and again on Tuscarora and Dry Run, Thatch
er's, Small's, Noll's, Lame Mike Seibert, Chisty's, Em-
merts, Dubles, Cushwas, Walters, Gross, Groves,
Tabbs, Porterfields and a host of others, whom it gives
me pleasure to recall. On Willlamsport road lived J. C.
and Henry Small, Ben. Comeqy, Geo. Reynolds, Sam'l
and Ben. Harrison, James Turner, Henry Haines, Andy
Mclntire, Wm. Hill, Daniel Lamaster, Dr. John Hedges,
Henry River, Andrew MeCleary, Wm. Porterfield, Jacob
Lafevre, Rev. John Light, Jacob Light, Peter Crowl,
Dan'l B. Morrison, Hamilton Light, Christ. Tabler, Jas.
L. and S. O. Cunningham, Joseph Unger and others of a
pleasing disposition, many of Avhom haVe passed on to
eternity — only one or two uoav living. They Avere true
and honorable in life, and are still respected in death.
Along the mountain range were A. and Jas. Robinson,
H. J. Seibert, Mike Seibert, Josiah and Hiram Hedges,
Rev. L. F. Wilson, Casper Weaver, Josiah Harlan, and
Bro. James Criswell, Jacob and Aaron Myers, Conrad
Robbins, Jacob Lingamfelter, AVillonbey Lemon, AV. O.
Cunningham, Christ. Tabler, Elliott Tabb, AVilllam and
Benj. Couchman, Henry Myers, Mike Couchman and
other noble men of the olden time. In enumerating the
old farmer citizens of the county, on the lower or Jeffer
son line, I was not so well acquainted, yet I take pleas
ure in naming some whom I did know, viz : the Billmire
family, Conrad, John, Solomon, David and Martin, all

Reminiscence. 291
of AA'hom Avere good, true men, and successful in life ;
Maj. Lewis B. Willis, a retired army officer ; James Ma
son, George and John Holliday, Jacob and Wm. Rush,
I. Van Doren, Drs. Vorhees and Magruders, S. B. and
Thos. Vanmetre, A. R. McQuilken, who is yet one of
your townsmen, Janifer Hudgel, E. B. Southworth and
others whom I cannot just now recall. In the Northern
end of the county were Jacob and Daniel Ropp, Poland
and Amos Williamson, Col. Ed. Colston, Jacob Price,
AVilllam AA'ilson, G. W. Robinson, Adam Small, AV. H.
Harley, AVm. Leigh, Robt. Lemon, Peter Light, AVm.
Jack, Wm. Hitzer, Wm. SperoAV, Joseph Criswell, John
Horner, Warner Emerson, Jacob Basore, Dr. A. C. Ham
mond and Jacob French. I knew them all personally,
and at some period of my life transacted business with
the larger number. They have left representatives in
almost every case, and their descendants can claim the
respect which is always due an honorable and true life.
The second election for county officers, under the new
Constitution, came off in May, 1854. The Democrats
nominated Barnet Cushwa for Sheriff, and Alex. New
comer, a professed Democrat, ran independent. It was
a very animated canvass, and the result very close, Mr.
C. having only seven majority. A contest was held be
fore the County Court, and they decided that no one was
elected, calling for another election in July, which was
held. In the meantime, Sam, or the Know-Nothing
party, became very active in behalf of Newcomer, and
for the first time In our county's history, steeped men
with whiskey and cooped them up in out-of-the-way
places, so as to control their votes on election day. It
was discovered, and every active Democrat was on the
alert to expose and thwart their villiany. I was present
at the break-up of one crop, near Whiting' s Neck, where
nine unfortunates were held. They Avere taken out, .and
by the next morning were over the mountain near Shang
hai, where they were comfortably cared for in a farmer's

292 Reminiscence.
house, and voted there the Democratic ticket as they all
wished to do, except one who wished to vote for CushAva
and the other portion of the ticket opposite. After a
hard fight Cushwa was elected by 67 majority. This
election was also contested, and it is supposed Avould
have been annulled, but cholera intervened and court ad
journed without action. Before it convened again the
law gave Mr. Cushwa the office. He proved to be one of
the most efficient officers we ever had before, and his
efficiency secured Democratic rule in the county up to
the beginning of the civil war.
After 1852 it became apparent that Martinsburg Avas a
town of importance and prosperity. Business began to
expand largely — G. Baker and Bro. opened a wholesale
grocery in the Shaffer room, east of B. & O. R. R.; D.
E. Shipley, Conrad & Son, M. and N. Stine, R. S. Pen
dleton, D. E. White, Hughes & Baker, Vanarsdale &
Gosnell, Wm. T. and Ezra Herring, W. H. AVilkens, J.
F. Harrison, Robert, and Thos. Turner, Jno. F. Staub,
Mason & Smith, Jas. W. Grantham and hosts of others
were engaged in business. The town also Improved in
school facilities — John Sellars, J. F. Gardner, AV. S. Saf-
fell, J. W. Page, Mrs. Phelps, Mrs. Armstrong and Miss
Chisholm taught schools. Rev. Wm. Love completed
an old blacksmith shop, located where Hon. W. H. H.
Flick's house now stands, and taught therein. It was
only one story in height. About this time the town be
came wonderfully excited by a ghost, which walked the
street all night rattling a chain. Many of us young men
determined to find out the mystery. Preparing ourselves
with pistols, loaded alone with powder, a^d being nine
in company, we stationed ourselves on the corner of Burke
and German streets, dividing each in companies of three.
We soon heard the chain approaching, as It turned the
corner toward King street. Some placed themselves
directly in its rear, while others on either side of the
street kept pace quietly in his rear. AVhen about half

Reminiscence. 298
way to King, the three in the centre of the street, fired
their pistols. The ghost commenced running, and one of
those in the street fell, leaving only two of the crowd to
continue the chase. AA^'e all followed and soon found
our two chums looking carefully among a lot of wagons,
plows, etc. , in front of the shop located where Flick' s
residence now stands, but failed to find his ghostshlp.
It was, however, his last appearance in that character,
yet it afterward came out fully, and the party came near
being our representative in the pen at Richmond.
It was my good fortune to know many of the older
citizens West of the Mountain, and among the number
I recall that noble old gentleman, AVm. Barney, who has
two sons, John and William, yet in your midst ; also
Lewis and Moses Grantham ; Robert K., George AA^. and
Israel Robinson ; Jacob, Samuel and Michael Stuckey ;
Peter Keys and his brother Philip, Mrs. Jones and Miss
McKeever, B. M. and Henry G. Kitchen, at each of whose
residences I have been hospitably entertained in the
regular old Virginia style. There was a noted hunter
who Avas given the name of Wolff Myers. He lived at
Meadow Branch, and almost every week during the win
ter he would be in town with venison, bear and other
wild meat, also wild turkeys by the dozen. He also had
a secret which I have no doubt died with him. Time
and again have I seen him sell to the stores native lead,
which he would smelt and bring in in square blocks. No
one could ever get his secret from him, and it Is a strong
evidence that the native ore exists somewhere in the vi
cinity of his residence. A representative of his family
still lives at Meadow Branch ; at least he was there a few
years ago, and is a? grandson of Thomas Myers. About
fifteen years ago I personally gave attention to the min
eral interests of our county. There is, on the property
of the late J. AV. Chenowith, near Arden, a Avonderfully
rich deposit of ore, also on the property of the late Hon.
C. J. Faulkner, at south end of toAvn. The latter was

294 Reminiscence.
developed and worked for a short period, and found to
contain not only a rich deposit of iron ore, but with it a
fair per cent, of zinc. This is an interest that your peo
ple should endeavor to develop, and in concluding my
reminiscence I could do no better than to encourage
greater honorable efforts for full development of the
grand old county — rich in good lands, well cultivated
farms, and laying undeveloped almost every source of
wealth which man may demand.
In the past years Martinsburg boys would have their
sport in swimming during the summer season. The
places of resort near..town were at the old oil mill dam,
now Fitz' s mill; the Bowers dam, directly opposite the
railroad shops, and to the small boys a place called the
"slip," just above the residence of Mr. Frazier and
back of your present planing mill. These places at that
time were very private and retired. No residences were
around the entire space from John Fitz's residence to
Ransom's, now Hannis' mill, it being an open common.
The larger boys and young men frequently went to the
Opequon, at a place called the "turn hole," possibly a
mile or more above the county bridge, crossing at Van-
metre' s, on the Shepherdstown road. It was a very dan
gerous place for bathers, and I have witnessed some ter
ribly exciting scenes there in efforts to rescue those in
danger, often proving successful, but in several instances
the reverse. I recall the drowning of a young man by
the name of Hugh McGackey. The family resided in the
property on Queen street adjoining Commodore Bore-
man's residence. The father was a contractor, who, with
a partner by the name of Scott, erected the stone bridge
crossing the Tuscarora, on B. &. O. R. R., below the
cemetery. Hugh went off on Sunday morning with
other boys of the town, and the father and family went
to the old Presbyterian Church, on King street. About
noon, as the congregation was dispersing, a horseman ar
rived and informed the father that Hugh was drowned.

Reminiscence. 295
I have never seen such agony as the father, mother and
sister exhibited. They fainted and A\'ere carried appa
rently dead to their home, all the congregation follow
ing. In a short time his body was brought in, which
was certainly a solemn occasion. He was a bright young
man, just turning into full manhood, and very popular
in the community.
This being a period of much excitement on the temper
ance question, I purpose giving my knowledge of the first
temperance organization which existed. In 1842, an an
nouncement was made that a reformed drunkard from
Baltimore would address the public in the Presbyterian
Church, and especially inviting those who drank to ex
cess. It being a new thing under the sun, everybody
went AVm. Dorsey was made chairman of the meeting,
and I then learned for the first time that there was a
society pledged to refrain from drinking whiskey, brandy,
gin and rum, but allowed to drink every kind of wine.
My knowledge of the business was such that, boy as I
was, I laughed at the idea, as I could see the effects of
Avine — not quite so quick but equally potent, and when
once under wine infiuence, more difficult to sober up than
even with heavier drinks. However, the reformed drunk
ard in a plain, square, unvarnished manner, told his life
experience, and stated that in Baltimore, in a bar-room,
twelve men just like himself had pledged each other to
quit drinking and go out through tlie entire land, exhort
ing their fellow men to do the same. He also said they
called themselves Washingtonians. He called upon any
one present, who knew they were drunkards, to rise, and
if any one wished to give their experience, they should
raise the right hand. SoA'eral did so, and a very large
number rose up, showing their honesty. At the present
time, if you would ask in a large assembly for any one
to rise and acknowledge they were drunkards, not one
would do so ; and yet there are more to-day, especially
among young men, than there were then. A very large

296 Reminiscence.
number signed the pledge, and I am x)roud to say, that
nearly all proved faithful. I recollect one particular
case. He was terribly given up to the habit, and for
three days he remained in Ms shop, his meals being
carried to Mm by members of his family. On the fourth
day he came out and made for the back yard of my
uncle's house. He came in with a frightened look upon
his face, and at once began to beg for a drink. My unclC)
although engaged in the trade and continuing in it for
years, says : "No, Mike, you want to quit, and I know
it is for your good. Now pledge me right here again,
that you will not drink liquor of any kind, and then
come with me." After a little hesitation, Mike took the
pledge. My uncle took him to the kitchen and gave him
a good meal, with plenty of good, strong coffee, and for
years after this man was true to his obligation. The
Washingtonians were succeeded by the " Sons of Tem
perance," and the " Boys' Cadets of TemiDerance." They
did a great deal of good in reforming and keeping men
from intemperance. The subject of prohibition had fre
quently been advocated under the old State before the
war, and at one time it was thought Avould be embodied
in the Constitution of 1851 and '52.
In my young childhood, John H. Blondel, generally
called " Tebeaus," Avas a young man and associated with
the circle of females and males, young men and women
Avho were familiar wi^h my relatives. He AA-as a' splendid
XDcrformer on almost any character of musical Instrument,
and although of a very quiet manner, I expect had more
real fun and sport in him than any one I ever knew
about our town. For many years he Avas the leader and
trainer of our bands, and had the reputation of being the
finest performer on the bugle that could be found. Often
at night has the old town been enlivened from some of
the surrounding hiUs by his delightful music, sometimes
from the bugle, accompanied by the claironet, flute, etc.
He usually had a number of companions with him.

Reminiscence. 297
Many of your older citizens will recall with pleasure the
amusing and laughable stories he Avould relate, among
which were " Old Mrs. Schoppert and her songorhymn,"
accompanied by the violin ; " Snuff-taking, sneezing and
pipeing voice of conversation ;" " Capt. Foley' s A-Islt and
dinner at the residence of Gen'l E. Boyd ;" " The coon
hunt, with black dogs of old man Stuckey ;" and many
others that I cannot recall. It was a pleasure to meet
him in a company, and wherever found he was sure to be
a source of much amusement. He was a good and worthy
citizen, filling Ms position of life with honor and credit
to himself and family. I have frequently heard him re
late that his mother and father were in San Domingo
when the terrible Negro Insurrection arose, and that his
mother, in order to save herself and him from death,
walked out into the sea until the water touched her chin,
and for several hours held him aloft out of the water in
her raised arms until she Avas rescued by a vessel. Hus
band and wife were separated, neither knowing the other
was living. The vessel that rescued Mrs. Blondel sailed
for Philadelphia, and she, knowing her husband had
relatives there, called to see them and found her husband
safe. It was a joyful meeting to both. They moved to
Martinsburg ; and during my younger days, I had occa
sion to see them frequently. The shop occupied by Mm,
in the tin and brass foundry business, Avas a small Avooden
structure, occupying the same corner now having upon
it the fine brick building, in Avhich the son of John H.
still carries on the tin business.
In enumeration of Avorthy and good citizens I entirely
forgot a section of the county, that possessed some grand
men, — the upper Opequon region. Among the residents
were Samuel Miller, John Burns, Benj. Boley, Joseph
Gorrell, Joseph and John Burns, Isaac Franklin ; Joshua,
Daniel and John Burns, all of Avhom moved to Missouri
years ago. There Avas also Jacob A^anmetre, called Easy
Jake ;. Joseph Hoffman ; the Roberts family, AA^illiam,

298 Reminiscence.
Edward F. and Josiah ; Abram AVIlliamson, John P.
Kearfott, Abram Deck, Morgan Vancleve and others,—
all worthy gentlemen, and whose posterity in many cases
are still citizens of your county.
The system of lights at night were entirely different
from the present. Every family used the candle on a
candlestick, and in many families nothing but the small
grease lamp was used. A piece of cotton cloth would be
cut about two inches wide, doubled together, and lard
put in a small cup made of iron with a sharp prong,
which would be put in a crack, usually of the chimney
jam. In the stores and hotels the walls Avould be hung
with sconces, made of tin, in which a candle was burnt.
In some of the wealthier families they burned sperm oil
in lamps. The churches were often lighted by side wall
lights of candles, in sconces. It was a singular thing
if any of the younger generation could define and give
the meaning of the word sconce. Between 1840 and 1850
etherial oil was introduced, Avhich gave a bright and
beautiful light, but a very dangerous one as it was more
liable to explode than the present kerosene so much in
use. We knew nothing about gas, and in fact coal was
not much in use, except by blacksmiths. Most generally
charcoal was used.
The trade in charcoal and tar was carried on exten
sively In our pine regions. It is very doubtful whether
one charcoal kiln Is now burnt in the county in a year.
At one time hundreds of them could be found In what
was termed the Pine Hills. The mode of making char
coal is not fully understood, hence I can only give the
fact that logs of medium size Avould be placed in a pit in
the ground and covered over AvIth earth, AvIth only one
vent hole to give draft to fire. It Avould be closed up
after the kiln was fully fired, and kept constantly cov
ered with earth until the smoke ceased to rise. It gen
erally made a mound from six to eight feet high, which
gradually sank almost to a level. AA^hen it was opened

Reminiscence. 299
and occasionally sprinkled with water, the wood looked
to be solid, but when stirred it broke up into lumps pos
sibly three or four inches. A kiln generally yielded
from ,500 to 800 bushels of coal.

' CHAPTER XII.
TSE B. & O. R. R. STRIKES AT MARTINSBURG.
^H^HE Incidents bearing upon the beginning of trouble
^^ with the Baltimore & Ohio Railway began about the
16 th of April, 1877. All along the line tramps, commun
ists and turbulent organizations had given rise to much
dissension among the railroad employes. John W. Gar
rett, a business man of acquired reputation, was made
president of the company in 1856. He found its stock
quoted low, its dividends small, and the road in a very
poor condition. Mr. Garrett proved to be the right man
in the right place, and displayed splendid executive
ability during the civil war, which came on shortly after
ward. He surrounded himself with capable assistants,
and having considerable influence with the Secretary of
War, secured the most profitable contract that, in a short
while, fully restored the credit of the corporation and
extended the road until it became one of the largest and
most prominent lines in the country. However, about
the month of July clouds began to hover about the pres-
ident'shead. A storm Avas impending which, before it
could be controlled, would involve the nation from the
Atlantic to the Pacific and from Pennsylvania to Texas,
in untold loss and misfortune. At a meeting convened
on the 11th of July, '77, by means of an official circular,
the president informed the employ6s that a preamble and
resolutions had been adopted to the effect that all officers
and operatives of the road receiving sums in excess of
one dollar joer diein would be reduced ten x)er cent., and
after the 16th of the same month the change would take
effect. Every man engaged upon the main line and
branches east of the Ohio River was embraced in this

TJie B. & 0. R. R. Strikes. 301
rule, including the trans-Ohio division and the roads
leased by the company. It was stated in the notice that
action in this direction would be postponed until after
their competitors had made similar retrenchments, hop
ing that business would revive in a short while and a de
crease of expenses be avoided. They were disappointed
in this, and the principal reason brought about the action
taken, which was on account of general depression of busi
ness interests over the country. The earnings of all rail
ways were unavoidably and seriously affected. A change
had to be made — in fact the call for it was imperative.
Persons superior to those of the ordinary observer, by
means of information, supposed that the low wages move
ment was undoubtedly canvassed along the great trunk
lines and decided upon by representatives of various
roads directly after the close of Vanderbilt's freight war
in the spring. During the month of May the Pennsyl
vania roald put it in force, and the reduction of ten per
cent, was accepted by the employes. This was followed
by the Erie and New York Central roads, to take effect
July 1st, and in both cases they were duly informed be
forehand ,of the changes to be made. As asserted in its
circular, the Baltimore and Ohio road was nearly the
last to take action In this matter, and several days before
the rule was to be enforced a number of the firemen at
once decided to strike. They declared their intention
that they could not and would not stand any reduction
from their wages. The Trainmen's Union was In full
blast all along the line, which had been effectively insti
tuted previously by a traveling delegation from the Penn
sylvania road, and taking advantage of affairs, a real
strike began.
The worklngmen claimed that their grievances were
unbearable — that the treatment received at the hands of
merchants and boarding-house keepers along the route,
for such necessities as trainmen were compelled to have,
was inordinately rash. Their belief was that whatever

302 TJie B. & 0. R. R. Strikes.
turn made in affairs could not make them much worse
off. Their earnings were low, rents high, and for their
heavy demands at the scanty stores at the stations, ex
travagant prices were charged. Extortion pressed them
on every side, and coupled with compulsory credit pur
chase from month to month, they began to nurse a hatred
and antagonism against the company and general public.
At this time the road carried a moderate amount east
ward, but owing to competition Avere unable to get suffi.
cient to the Avestward to load its cars. This caused a large
reduction of the hands employed, and created much
discontent. President Garrett, Vice-President King, and second
Vice-President Keyser, upon learning of the strike, and
the movements of the Brotherhood of Engineers and the
Trainmen's Union, pronounced it untimely, ill-advised,
and fated to meet no great success. The road, like all
others, was now passing through the darkest days of its
experience. A financial stringency Avas staring it in the
face, and business falling off where an accession had been
calculated upon — the results of competition and unpro
ductive extensions of line. The officials stated that a
reduction had to be made for the curtailment of expenses,
and when the demands of the strikers were made known,
they promptly refused them. Knowing that a stoppage
would lead to heavy losses, yet they preferred to let the
road stand idle, rather than be dictated to and cause a
reinstatement of the former rates of wages. On account
of this, the strike was simply suicidal on the part of
those engaged in it. Meetings were held by the Brother
hood of Locomotive Engineers — advicegiven and received,
and many were led to believe that they would take no
part in the strike. AVith the consent of this organiza
tion, the Trainmen' s Union assisted in starting the im
portant movement all along the line. On the 16th of
July, 1877, the day that the reduction of wages on the B.
& O. R. R. was ordered to take effect, the strike was

TJie B. & 0. R. R. Strikes. 303
commenced in our city and the first actual violence com
mitted. Here occurred the first important Incidents of
the great strikes of '77, on the night of July 16th. No
tice had been given the crews of all trains, by the stri
kers, that after a certain hour no person should move an
engine under penalty of death. Engineers on the road
Avere paralyzed, — AvhIle the managers hastened to make
good their usual trips and secure men to take the places
of the strikers. However, they met with only partial
success. It was in our happy neighborhood, which had rested
in peace and quietude since the war, that the combination
of railroad men imbued- their hands in blood and met
their first loss of life, in attempting to carry out their
communistic ideas. On Monday morning, the 16th of
July, a large number of train hands left Baltimore, and
with those coming in from the West, began to concen
trate at Martinsburg. Near the dispatcher's office could
always be found a number of locomotives on the tracks,
and it was no unusual occurrence for employils to congre
gate there. But at this time it was noticed that some
thing more than ordinary was transpiring, or about to
transpire, when the men collected in groups at the depot,
the machine-shops, the switch-stands, along the tracks
and other localities. An explanation of these mysteri
ous gatherings was. In a short while, made very plain,
when a fireman notified the dispatcher that a cattle -train
was compelled to stop there, as the entire crew had struck
and no one could be found to take the vacant places.
The fireman also stated that he thought no more trains
would be allowed to move from this point in either di
rection. The news soon spread, and in a short while
people began to collect from all directions to see what
was going on. The policemen put in their appearances,
and sauntered leisurely around, waiting to see if their
services would be called for. In a short AA^hile the engines
were detached from the trains, and run into the round-

304 TJie B. & 0. R. R. Strikes.
house. AVhen questioned by the officials concerning
their action, the strikers replied that no more trains would
be run over that road, in any direction, until the company
withdrew the ten per cent, reduction of trainmen's wages.
They intended to refrain from Avork, and would not allow
their places to be filled by a noAv set of men. The freight
trains were kept on a stand-still, while the mail trains
were allowed to pass, but eventually they A\'ere stopped.
The increased crowd of spectators, by this time, was
stirred with interest, and the news spread until it reached
every citizen. It was taken up by the press and soon
scattered broad-cast over the country.
The Mayor, Captain A. P. Shutt, and the policemen
were sent for, who promptly put in their appearance,
and backed by a trio of municipal guardians, held a con
ference with the railroad officials. Mayor Shutt, willing
to do all in his power, proceeded to speak to the strikers,
using mild and temperate language, and advised them to
return to their work and trust to the fairness of the com
pany in the settlement of their grievances: But the mob,
following the general rule, had reached that point where
reason ceased to be a virtue, and their madness and vio
lence had only been increased. The Mayor was hooted
at, derided, and his good counsel turned to ridicule. He
failed to impress the strikers with any of his mild-man
nered notions, and could not make them understand that
it would be best to run their locomotives to their desti
nations. In fact, his speech only served to add fuel to
the fires already fiercely burning, and, giving It up as a
hopeless task, he ordered his policemen to arrestthe rlno--
leaders. Frantic efforts to obey were made by the pow
erless policemen, while the strikers laughed in their faces.
The Mayor's appeals were equally fruitless— the men re
fused to work— and the engineers found an excuse for
refusal by saying they dare not enter their cabs. The
firemen and trackmen would not alloAv others to take
their places, holding back with all their strength. Fi-

TJie B. & 0. R. R. Strikes. 305
nally the Mayor and policemen withdrew from the scene,
leaving the situation at the undisputed command of the
strikers. The machine shops, depot and round-houses
were all deserted by midnight, except by a number of
Union men who were left to guard the tracks and see
that no trains were allowed to pass that point. The-.
strangers from Baltimore were provided for by their fel
low-strikers, and a number lodged at the hotels. The-
telegraph manager communicated the information of the ¦
strike to President Garrett and Vice-President King, ot"
Baltimore, and after midnight Capt. Thos. B. Sharp,.
General Master of Transportation, was brought to the
spot. After carefully surveying the condition of affairs,
which was in no wise difficult of comprehension, a full
report of his investigation was telegraphed to the princi
pal office. The matter was duly considered by the Balti
more officials, Avho prepared' a telegram and at once dis
patched to Governor Mathews, stating the facts as here
given, and asking him to provide some method to aban
don violent measures and allow trains to move in safety.
Through the promptness of the Governor, a telegram was
sent to Col. C. J. Faulkner, at Martinsburg, dated at
AVheeling, about midnight, ordering him if necessary, to
call out his command, the Berkeley Light Infantry, to
aid and protect the civil authorities, and to make due
report to the executive office of the existing state of
affairs and his operations.
Col. Faulkner was informed of the Governor's wishes
July 17th, about 12:30 A. M., and returned answer by
telegraph, stating that the strikers would not allow trains
to move either east or west from Martinsburg, and asked
if his instructions extended any further than merely pro
tecting the peace— if so, he desired an answer in full.
Meanwhile the Colonel issued orders for an immediate
assemblage of the militia command, prepared for active
duty, at their armory. The call was promptly responded
to by the militia, among whom were many railroaders,
20 ,

306 The B. & 0. R. R. Strikes.
atfd possibly connected Avith the Trainmen's Union. A
number of the militia, as well as numerous citizens, felt
a deep and hearty sympathy with the men engaged in
the strike. In a short while Col. Faulkner received
another message from GoA'ernor Mathews, advising him
if possible, to avoid using force, and at the same time
give all necessary aid to the civil authorities, and see
that the laws A\'ere duly executed. At the conclusion of
the message the Governor stated: "I rely upon you to
act discreetly and firmly."
Mr. Sharp, Master of Transportation, fixed upon 5
o'clock as the hour for moving trains on Tuesday morn
ing, and secured an engineer and fireman, who agreed to
take the stock-train through to Its destination, if ]3roper-
ly protected. A request was then made of Col. Faulkner,
Ms command of militia. Mayor Shutt and police. County
Sheriff and posse, to be present and see that the strikers
did not interfere. Col. Faulkner, before retiring from
the scene, asked Governor Mathews by telegrajDh : " Must
I protect men who are willing to run their trains, and see
that they are permitted to go east and west ?" In a short
while the Governor answered : "I am informed that the
rioters constitute a combination so strong that the civil
authorities are powerless to enforce the laAv. If this is
so, prevent any interference by rioters with the men at
work, and also prevent the obstruction of the trains."
Upon receiving this communication. Col. Faulkner at
once repaired to the armory to take charge of his com
mand, knowing plainly what his duty was. The known
oifders for the gathering of militia, the marching of uni
formed men on the streets bearing arms, accompanied by
the excitement of the strike, caused such a restlessness
that there Avas but little sleep visited the eyelids of the
citizens on that eventful night. Groups of persons, white
and colored, could be seen gathered on the corners in
knots, discussing the unusual state of affairs, and won
dering what the morrow would bring forth. The city has

TJie B. & 0. R. R. Strikes. 307
never ex]3erienced such a sensation since the close of the
war. At about five o'clock the next morning, AA''. H. Harri
son, Master Mechanic of the company, with Mr. French,
arrived here from Cumberland. A consultation was held
with Capt. Sharp and the remaining local force of the
road, after which a locomotive was fired up and attached
to a cattle- train, and with an engineer and fireman they
were ready to start matters anew. At about sunrise the
attempt was made to set the driving wheels once more in
motion, but was prevented by the strikers guard from
the round-house, Avho sAvept down upon them and order
ed the non-striking men to hold hard or they would be
killed. The throttle was promptly shut and the engine
brought to a stand-still, which probably saved their lives.
However, the men remained with the train for a short
time, expecting to rush it through, but finally left. Up
to this time the militia and town officials had not made
their appearance. The president and officers of the com
pany Avere informed of the circumstances, and at once
instructed Capt. Sharp to make the attempt until Ms
efforts were crowned AA'ith success. The consequent
sounding of the shrill steam whistle, in the early dawn
of the day, startled the excited inhabit mts of the city,
and in a short while the streets were flocked, all anxious
to learn what was going on. Among the citizens were
the strikers belonging to the city, and reinforced by
those from Baltimore and the West. They congregated
about the basement doors of the present depot, and
gathered in small squads over the surrounding ground.
It seemed as though the railroad men, by agreement,
separated from the others, and concentrated a formidable
force near the company's buildings. Mr. Harrison, the
Master Mechanic, conversed with them and endeavored
by every means in his power to Influence their minds
peaceably, and bring about an amicable adjustment of
the prevailing troubles. A number of employes were

308 The B. & 0. R. R. Strikes.
well disposed towards Harrison, but exhibited no change
of heart. Harrison finally returned to Sharp, after ex
hausting his arguments, and reported that the rioters
would not change their decision in regard to stopping all
freight trains, and if anything, their resolution had be
come more firm than ever. Mr. Sharp was a cool, deter
mined man, of iron will, and upon receiving this infor
mation, concluded that no favorable or peaceful solution
of the surrounding difficulties would be reached. The
strikers had accused Sharp of being at the bottom of the
rough treatment to which they were subjected, and be
lieved him to be the cause of the reduction in wages. In
truth, he was bitterly opposed to the cutting-down sys
tem, and in favor of restoring the pay to its original
amount. The enemies were ignorant of this, and when
they saw Mm walk up to a locomotive and order the en
gineer forward to Ms destination at all hazards, they cast
scowling glances upon him and were greatly enraged.
The engine had not moved a single length of rail, be
fore the mob swarmed upon the foot-board, over the coal
in the tender and thence into the cab, driving the newly-
engaged men from their positions. The locomotive was
uncoupled from the train and run into the round-house,
leaving the cars on the track no nearer their destination
than before. By this time their numbers had increased
several hundred, and no further damage was done. The
crowd then gathered nigh, in almost a solid mass, to
watch the proceedings. The engineer and fireman had
escaped, and again Sharp was defeated, of which he
informed the company as before. Meantime the crowd
of spectators and array of strikers continued to increase.
At about 9 o'cjock, four hours later than the appointed
time, the sound of fife and drum was heard, and pres
ently the gleaming arms and accoutrements of the Berke
ley Light Infantry were seen advancing towards the
depot, headed by Col. Faulkner. Loud hurrahs and
shouts of welcome went up as the militia filed down the

TJie B. & 0. R. R. Strikes. 309
steep steps and marched to the round-house unopposed.
The engineer and firemen had again been discovered and
brought to the spot, and another cheer went up. They
were closely followed by their wives and children, who
threw their arms around their husbands necks, franti
cally embracing and urging them to refrain from the per
ilous attempt. But they tore themselves from the grasp
of their families, and started on a swift pace to
the round-house, where they mounted the engine, Avhich
had already been fired up. The engine was then
moved out, with soldiers on either side, bayonets fixed
and guns loaded, and proceeded in the direction of the
distillery. Squads of the militia had been arranged and
several placed on the engine. Their progress was slow
and snail-like, owing to the pressure of the close forward
ranks of the strikers. At this moment the rioters rose
to white heat, when the third experiment was made for
starting with the trainmen guarded. At the suggestion
of Mayor Shutt, Col. Faulkner then proceeded to ad
dress the mob, and if possible stay further violence. In
a courteous, firm and impressive manner, he warned
them of the result if they interfered any further, and
if they touched the engine it would be at their own peril.
They only laughed at him, as though they would accept
none other than brute force to obtain their rights.
The engine was moved in the direction of the distillery,
where it was attached to a cattle train on the siding. A
switch led this track upon the main road, which, it
seems had been tampered Avith by the strikers. The
train was made up about 10 o'clock, and squads of
militia were placed on the engine, and on either side of
the train. John Poisal, a militiaman was sitting on the
cow-catcher, and as the train steadily and slowly drew
near the switch, his attention was attracted by the posi
tion of the switch ball. Unless some change was made,
Poisal knew the train would be thrown off the right
track. AVith musket in hand, he immediately jumped

310 The B. & 0. R. R. Strikes.
to the ground, and ran to the SAvitch. Just as he was in
the act of reversing it, William Vandergrlff, a striking
fireman, who had tampered it and was standing near to
see, the result, yelled out :
"Don't you touch that switch!"
"I'm not going to see the train run on a siding
if I can prevent it," replied Poisal, as he firmly
grasped the iron. Before Poisal could change the
switch, Vandergriff had drawn a small pocket-pistol
from Ms belt, and fired two shots in rapid suc
cession upon him. One of the bullets plowed a jag
ged furroAv on the side of Poisal' s forehead, just above
the ear, while the other fiew wide of its mark. Upon
receiving the shot, Poisal quickly raised his gun, and
with a steady aim fired on Vandergrlff. Another soldier
near by fired at the same time, and both balls lodged in
Vandergrlff' s body, one in the arm and the other pene
trating the thigh. He fell, mortally wounded, which
was followed by the explosion of several small arms, but
no injury done. At this onslaught the mob pressed closer
on the soldiers, while a lively scattering was made among
the woman, children, and more peaceably disposed citi
zens. Poisal and Vandergrlff were taken to their homes,
and medical aid procured. In a short while the strikers
again had things all their own way, completely over
powering the militia. The sound of fire-arms drew larger
crowds from the city, and the excitement was more in
tense than ever. By this time the fireman and engineer
had escaped from the train, and left the locality.
Col. Faulkner fully appreciated in a minute, that his
militia, however brave and trustworthy, under these cir
cumstances would not attempt to kill their relatives and
friends. He at once reported to Capt. Sharp, stating tliat
his men Avere powerless and many In sympathy with the
strikers, and that he would have to march them back to
the armory. They were then ordered home, and the road

The B. & 0. R. R. Strikes. 311
left blocked uj) AvIth trains of loaded cars, subject to the
caprices of the infuriated and angry mob.
For several days afterward Vandergriff lay upon his
bed, suffering terrible agony. The best nurses and phy
sicians the country afforded attended him, and every
thing possible was done for his recovery. However, on
the 28th of July he breathed his last, and on the Sunday
following was buried in Green Hill Cemetery. Poisal,
whose injury was slight, made his appearance on the
street in a few days, appearing as well and hearty as
usual. The story of this incident Avas spread abroad by
the press, and if credit was given them, one would sup
pose that civil war surely reigned in Martinsburg. The
actual number of strikers was estimated to be upwards
of seventy- five or eighty, but were backed by many citi
zens and other working classes. The press greatly ex
aggerated this strike, and in a few days the torch of
communism was burning brightly throughout the whole
country. After the militia had left the scene, the confusion
ceased, and the railroaders retired to their former posi
tion at the shops. The locomotive, as before, was un
coupled and returned to the round-house. Col. Faulk
ner became disgusted with the part he had been forced
to take in the riots. He had given his men no orders to
fire, and therefore run no risk of his commands being
disobeyed. His desire was to jjerform his duty and en
force the law without shedding blood, but met with no
success. Information was at once furnished Governor
Mathews of the proceedings and results. Later on Col.
Faulkner telegraphed the Governor that it was impossi
ble for him to do anything further, and that a number of
his command, being railroad men, Avould not respond.
The Governor, in response, dispatched that law-abiding
citizens must be protected, and the peace preserved, by
whatever means was necessary to accomplish It. He also
stated that he could furnish a company from AVheeling,

312 Tlie B. & 0. R. R. Strikes.
who would be used in the suppression of riot and execu
tion of the law, and also spoke very highly of Col.
Faulkner's appeal to the rioters.
The mob had full possession of all the railroad prop
erty from Monday night until the succeeding AVednesday
morning, July 18th. At about 7:30 o'clock, the Math
ews Light Guard arrived from AVheeling, under com
mand of Col. Delaplaine, and a conference was held be
tween Attorney-General AVhite, AVm. Keyser, Second
Vice-President, Col. Sharp, and others.. During this
time the rioters made no further demonstration, but re
mained quiet and ap]parently content with the work they
had done. The Trainmen' s Union at Baltimore, Grafton,
Cumberland, Pittsburgh, and other points were ke^jt
posted by the strickers concerning their doings.
The strikers visited the railroad shops on the evening
of the 18th of July, and ordered the laborers then at
work to stop, which they refused to do. In the mean
time the mail trains were allowed to pass unmolested
either way. Finally the cars loaded with cattle were ar
ranged for by Mr. Mantz and shipped over the Cumber
land Valley and Western Maryland roads. Th'e AVheel
ing Light Infantry had charge of the town for several
days, encamped at the Court House and railroad, and no
action was taken by them with the strikers, as it was
deemed best to await reinforcements. On the 18th of
July Governor Mathews, at the urgent request of Mr.
Garret, telegraphed President Hayes, and after explain
ing the situation, asked for United States troops. No
freight operations were started until Brevet Major- Gen
eral W. H. French, Colonel of the Fourth U. S. Artillery,
arrived Avith tAvo hundred men armed as infantry, and no
sooner had they reached the town than quiet and order
reigned supreme.
President Hays issued, previous to this, his x^roclama-
tion, and directed it to the citizens of AA^egt A'lrginia.
He admonished all good citizens in the United States and

The B. & 0. R. R. Strikes. 313
within its territory of jurisdiction, against aiding, coun
tenancing, abetting or taking part in such unlawful pro
ceedings. A warning was given those engaged in or con
nected with said domestic violence and obstruction of the
laws, and orders given them to disperse and retire peace
ably to their respective abod es on or before 1 2 o' clock
meridian, of the 19 th day of July. -^It bore the signatures
of President Hayes and F. A. Steward, Acting Secretary
of State, accompanied by the great seal of the United
States. This permanently settled affairs at Martinsburg,
and the rioters had to retire, as they could not fight the
Government of the United States.

CHAPTER XIII.
LIFE OF THE LATE HON. C. J. FAULKNER— THE
STORY OF A LIFE FULL OF BUSTLING ACTIVI
TIES—LEFT AN ORPHAN— A FIGHT FOR AN
EDUCATION — DEBATE WITH TOM MAR
SHALL—ENTERS PUBLIC LIFE IN 1882—
GOES TO CONGRESS IN 1852— A DIPLO
MAT AND A PRISONER OF STATE—
THE REAVARD OF INDUSTRY.
AVRITTEN BY COL. FRANK A. BUER IN 1884.
I.
" Time, hath, my Lord,
A wallet at his back, wherein he puts alms.
For Oblivion's sake.
These scraps, are good deeds past,
Forgot, as soon as done."
|^|AD Shakespeare his normal Inspiration when he
^^§ penned these lines ? And is it true that good deeds
live to spur succeeding generations to emulation and suc
cess ?¦ It is the general judgment of the worldthat notable
acts survive forever,andburnishedbythelapse oftime,are
brighter when joicked up from the dust of years. Of such
a one I write. One whose life has been full of strange
vicissitudes and bustling activities. It is now sloping to
a close, as calmly as the sun goes down after a stormy
day. He began life in an humble way. AVhen eight
years of age he was left an orphan, with no kith nor kin
on this broad continent. He grew to manhood, and to
old age. In the little town in which he was born, and in
Avhich he now lives. His home to-day is almost within
the shadow of the grave of a grandfather, shot down in
the Revolution, and of a father, who perished from ser
vice in the Avar of 1812. His mother died before he could

Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner. 815
hardly understand the value of a mother's care, and his
father Avas buried before he could comprehend the mean
ing of the word "orphan." He was reared by strangers,
and whatever he has been or is, he chieflv gained for
himself, by as hard a struggle with the world as a man
ever made. Perhaps it was best for Mm that his lot was
cast in rough places, and that he had to make the jour
ney of life alone. His father's advice and influence
might have given his character a different bent, and a
less fortunate one. He was a soldier, a major of artillery,
and was filled with a soldier's ambition, and a soldier's
bonhomie. Therefore, he died poor, and left Ms son,
when a child, to make his own way, with no other capi
tal than the sturdy qualities inherited from good Scotch-
Irish stock on both sides of the family tree.
The village doctor gave him a home, but he himself
learned the valuable lessons of industry and self-reliance
that have stood him so well in hand through all his busy
years. Like many of the youth of the country, when
impelled by vague, yet strong ambitions, he early began
the study of law, at the famous law school of Chancellor
Tucker, in Winchester, and in much less than the usual
time of probation and reading, he was admitted to the
bar. He was never accounted a brilliant boy, nor has
he ever been noted for that quality as a man. He got
his start in life by untiring industry and close applica
tion ; he early trained his mind to methodical effort.
While others slept he worked, and it has been a tireless
energy, more than any single quality of his nature, that
has made him a name and fame as a successful man.
He had little more than attained his majority when he
took a leading position at the bar, and In the politics of
his native county.
The decade beginning in 1880 was filled Avith impor
tant history, and with its opening year Mr. Faulkner
practically began his public life.
The Constitutional Convention of that year had com-

316 Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner.
I)leted its Avork and the people of Virginia were to de
cide whether the Constitution of 1830, largely the work
of Watkins Leigh, was to be the fundamental law of the
State. There was a strong feeling for and against it.
The famous Tom Marshall, of Kentucky, was one of its
most bitter opponents. He had been living a year or
more in Berkeley County, on a visit to his relations, the
Colstons, and had gone to Richmond during the sessions
of the Constitutional Convention. There he had engen
dered an intense dislike for AVatkins Leigh. AVhen he
returned to Martinsburg he took open ground against the
instrument and assailed it as " AVatkins Leigh's Consti
tution." By the time the canvass came on, when the
people were to decide for or against it, he had aroused a
good deal of feeling in relation to its provisions, and it
was thought best by those Avho favored it that a great
public public meeting should be called, at which its pro
visions should be discussed before the people. Mr.
Faulkner had taken a position in its favor, believing it
an Improvement on the old, and it was arranged that he
and Tom Marshall should present its merits or demerits
to the people at a meeting in Martinsburg, the county
town. A great crowd gathered to hear the debate. It
was the first public discussion of Mr. Marshall, as well
as the first of Mr. Faulkner. Each young man appeared
at his best, but Mr. Marshall, at that early day, gave
ample evidence of those great powers of mind and tongue
that afterwards made him so famous. The discussion
lasted for several hours, and Mr. Marshall carried the
croAvd by his wit and eloquence ; but Mr. Faulkner, by
Ms industry, secured for the Constitution a large major
ity at the polls of Berkeley County.
II.
ENTERING PUBLIC LIFE.
An Important decade in our national history began
with the adoption of the neAv Constitution of A'"irginia.
The nullification schemes of Calhoun Avere being hatched

Llfe^ of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner. 817
in its first year, and in 1832, Avhen Mr. Faulkner Avas
called to his first public position. President Jackson had
just issued his famous "proclamation of force," which
boldly asserted the supremacy of the Government of the
United States over the government of any State. And
there was then such imminent danger of armed resist
ance to the Federal authority that Congress placed in the
hands of the President the power of military coercion.
Clay was then engaging the public attention with his
scheme of protection ; then, too, Andrew. Jackson was
pushing tricky Martin Van Buren for the Presidency,
and sitting upon the aspirations of Calhoun with the
whole power of his administration. It was amidst these
striking events and upon the threshold of the Presiden
tial election of 1832 that Mr. Faulkner took his place in
the Virginia House of Delegates. He was then only a
boy in age and appearance, but a man in mind. The
Virginia Legislature of that period was composed of men,
who in their day and in the great era following, left their '
imprint on the annals of their time. With those men
Mr. Faulkner took a leading position, and at once gave
evidence of his power to originate ideas, coupled with the
courage to proclaim them. Taking heed of the differ
ences between Jackson and Calhoun, looking at the then
condition of Virginia and seeing in the temper of the po
litical factions the seeds of a contest uidou the slavery
question, he submitted to the Legislature and advocated
a proposition for the abolition of slavery upon \!hepost
nati principle. The north had liberated its bondsmen
upon the same principle, and by the provisions of his
proposition all children of slave parents were to be born
free after July 1st, 1840. He supported this proposition
In a speech of great power, Avhich was widely circulated
and was severely condemned by the radical slave-hold
ing element. It did not, hoAvever, greatly shock public
opinion in Virginia at the time, and in many sections of
the State the idea Avas received Avith decided favor. The

318 Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner.
slave-holding element undertook, however, to make it an
issue the following year, when he was a candidate for re
election, but he was returned upon that issue by what
was practically a unanimous A'ote.
Comment upon this speech and action of Mr. Faulkner
was not confined to the South alone. It was extensively
read throughout the country. Once a year for many
years after it Avas delivered, AVilllam Lloyd Garrison
printed that speech in full in the Liberator, amused him
self by sending Mr. Faulkner a copy, and circulated it
widely as evidence of the growing sentiment in the South
against slavery.
The opening of the year 1833 witnessed the beginning
of the abolition crusade, and It seemed to destroy all the
sentiment there ever was in the South in favor of eman
cipation, gradual or otherwise. It had the effect to com
bine all elements together in' resistance, forcible and
positive, to the attempted legislative encroachment upon
the established institution of the South. I have often
heard Mr. Faulkner say, "but for this impertinent and
illegal intermeddling of Northern fanatics, emancipation
would have become the predominant sentiment of Vir
ginia, and would have Avorked out its results without
ruin and bloodshed."
Mr. Faulkner finished his first legislative experience in
1838, and after declining a third election was appointed
a commissioner on behalf of Virginia, to examine and re
port on the disputed question of the boundary line bet
ween Maryland and Virginia ; the controversy embraced
all of that rich section of country lying between the
north and south branches of the Potomac River. Mr.
Faulkner's report Avas extensive and conclusive ; it set
tled the controversy between Maryland and Virginia
giving to the old mother of States a clear title to large
proportions of the present counties of Hampshire Min-

Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner. 819
eral. Hardy, Grant Pendleton and Randolph, for AvMch
Maryland was contending.*
Mr. Faulkner first met Andrew Jackson while engaged
upon this famous report. The interview was character
istic and interesting. It was in that nullification era
when Congress had delegated to the President the power
of coercion, and he had used it to crush South Carolina's
secession proclivities. John Floyd, then Governor of
Virginia, and Mr. Tazewell, then In the Senate, were, al
though still members of the party, bitterly denouncing
Jackson's nullification proclamation, and pressing their
theory of State Rights. Governor Floyd had asked
Mr. Faulkner to go to Europe to obtain data from the
original records in relation to the boundary line, but hav
ing no funds to pay the expenses of the voyage, he re
quested him to call upon the President, explain his pro
posed visit to England, and request that he be given pas
sage as Virginia's representative, in a government ship.
Mr. Faulkner visited the President, for this purpose,
and as soon as he stated the object of his visit. "Old
Hickory" replied :
"Certainly, sir, I will grant you passage in the ship
Delaware, now lying in the Potomac, about to sail for
England," but, he continued, "doesen't it strike you as
a little strange that Governor Floyd, with his peculiar
^notions of States Rights, and ideas of the limited powers
of the National government, should ask a service of this
kind from it, in a purely State matter % I will grant the
request with pleasure, but I cannot help thinking that it
is an apt illustration of the absurdity of the doctrine of
State Rights, as Governor and Senator Tazewell declare
them." Mr. Faulkner at once transmitted an official an
nouncement of the success of Ms application to the Presi
dent, and at the same time wrote a letter to governor
Floyd, which he marked "private and confidential,"
giving his conversation with the President. Floyd sent
*The report here mentioned will be found on page 67.

820 Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner.
to Tazewell, and together they became greatly incensed.
Floyd returned the letter to Mr. Faulkner, with the re
quest that he strike out the words "private and confi
dential," that Tazewell might make it the basis of an
attack for both of them, upon Jackson and his adminis
tration, upon the floor of the United States Senate. Mr.
Faulkner refused, and years after Governor Floyd
thanked him, as did Tazewell, for saving them from the
premature open quarrel with "Old Hickory" which they
had resolved upon having. The circumstances, however
kept Mr. Faulkner from going to Europe on the vessel,
and his report on the boundary question was made with
out consulting the archives of the mother country.
Ill-
QUITS POLITICS FOR THE LAW,
In 1883, after the completion of the report on the boun
dary, Mr. Faulkner was married to the daughter of Gen.
Boyd, an old and distinguished Virginian, who for many
years had taken an active part in her public affairs. For
the next fifteen years politics commanded little part of
his time and attention. He devoted himself with great
zeal to the practice of his profession, and in a short time
took a leading place at the bar of Virginia, which was in
those days one of the strongest in the Union. His cases
were many and his fees large, and before he again ap
peared in public life he had acquired a fortune which
has enabled Mm to live independently ever since. Hav
ing acquired this independence, he again turned to poli
tics, partially for relief from the exactions of legal work,
and partly becauee he was ambitious to leave something
behind him besides money ; because he believed that an
ambition for public service was a laudable one after a
man had acquired a competency. This ambition for a
place in history was in perfect keeping with his charac
ter, and he devoted himself to it with the same earnest,
untiring energy that he had brought to bear upon every
task he had undertaken, from his childhood up. This

Life of the late Hon. C. J. Faulkner. 321
very quality, Avhich people applaud in most of the rela
tions of life, has been belittled and derided by many not
broad enough in mental grasp to comprehend the fact
that in politics, as in business, a man wins success by the
efforts which he makes to deserve It.
In 1841, he responded a second time to the call of his
fellow citizens, and was elected to the State Senate of
Virginia. Finding, however, that the office made too
great demand upon Ms time, he resigned, in the spring
of 1842 ; he did not, however, cease to take an active in
terest in public affairs. In 1843 he was an earnest advo
cate of the annexation of Texas, and in 1846, was one of
the earliest and warmest supporters of the Mexican war.
In the raising of troops from Virginia, for service in
Mexico, Mr. Faulkner Avas prominent and successful,
but all these, and many other public acts, were merely
incidents in a life which, during this period, was chiefly
devoted to the practice of the laAv. In 1348, however,
Mr. Faulkner was again elected to the House of Dele
gates of Virginia. During that session he introduced
into the Legislature a bill which was passed, and by the
Legislature transmitted to the Senators and Representa
tives and became the famous Fugitive Slave Law passed
by Congress, in 1850. Indeed, it was his avowed pur
pose, in being elected to the Legislature, to do all in his
power to bring the whole moral force of the State of Vir
ginia to demand from Congress, a law for the protection
of slave property. During this session he was chairman
of the special committee of the Virginia Legislature
charged with the investigation of the whole fugitive slave
question, audit would have been unnatural if he had not,
from the beginning of that session, been a central figure
in a Legislature of strong men. But it was not only in
the discussion and consideration of this grave question,
that Mr. Faulkner was prominent. In the revision of
the code of State laws, which was the chief work of that
Legislature, he took a leading part. His service in this

322 Life of the late Hon. C. J. Faulkner.
Legislature, and his work in a previous term Avas memo
rable for himself and fruitful to the State. During all
the years after Ms entrance into public life it had been
apparent to him, as to every thinking man, that the Vir
ginia Constitution, of 1830, Avas not sufficient to meet
the demands of a rapidly advancing civilization, and
when the reform Constitutional Convention of 1850 as
sembled, it found Mr. Faulkner one of its members. This
was- the first occasion during his public life that an op
portunity had been afforded him to combat the persis
tent discriminations of the government of Virginia
•against that portion of the state which lay west of the
IBlue Ridge. Eastern Virginia had always borne heavily
upon the western portion of the State in taxation, in the
^iatriibation of public improvements, and had defrauded
her out of her proper representation by establishing a
mixed basis of population and property, which alone
could give the Eastern slave holding section of the State
the ]power to control the policy of the entire State.
IV.
IN THE REFORMED CONVENTION OF 1850.
Mr. Faulkner's contest against these unjust discrimi
nations began when he first entered the Legislature, and
never ceased while he had a voice in that body. It 1841
Ms opposition to the unjust attitude of the majority to
wards the section of which he Avas a native Avas such
that he presented a proposition to remove the capital
from Richmond to some point in the Shenandoah Valley.
But while these contests vexed the public mind in the
East, because they served to call attention to the hard
ships endured by Western Virginia, there were no prac
tical means presented of striking at the root of the evil
until the reform convention of 1850 Avas called.
The proceedings of this convention Avere very impor
tant, and Mr. Faulkner was prominent in Its sessions.
He paid little attention, however, to the abstract or theo
retical questions which arose, no matter Avhat might be

Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner. 328
their seeming importance, but reserved all his influence
and energy for a bold advocacy of the rights and inter
ests of AA'estern A^irginia. To this, his native section,
taxation and the basis of representation were far more
important matters than any other questions before that
body. The importance of these issues had been recog
nized by all sections of the State, and strong men from
the East, as well as the West, had been sent to deal with
the important issues to be decided by that assemblage.
Governor Henry A. AVise, John Y. Mason, John Minor
Botts and George AV. Summers Avere a few of the great
men in that convention. Mr. Faulkner's most signifi
cant battle in that body was upon the basis of represen
tation, and in the debate upon that question he ran coun
ter to all the leading men representing the eastern sec
tion of the State. This was especially the fact in his
course upon the question of representation ; it was to
his great honor that at that early day he was the stead
fast and eloquent champion of basing representation
upon voters and not upon chattels ; that he demanded
representation should be wholly upon the free whites
and not in part upon property, Avhether slave or other
wise. In Ms advocacy of this measure his speech Avas able
and exhaustive ; he commanded the close attention of
the convention during the tAvo days Avhich were occupied
by its delivery. It made a profound impression, and de
ciding the question under consideration In consonance
Avith Mr. Faulkner's yiews, gave to AA^estern Virginia
that position in the Councils of States to which she was
entitled. The debate in relation to taxation was equally
interesting and important. Mr. Faulkner bore the brunt
of that task, as well as the debate upon representation.
Henry A. Wise Avas the champion of Eastern Virginia
ideas and interests on the subject of taxation, while Mr.
Faulkner stood in the same relation to AA'estern Virginia.
The debate between these two leaders of diverse inter-

324 Life of tJie late Hon. C J. Faulkner.
ests has been preserved and Avas regarded as a leading in
cident of the convention, and his position was sustained.
AVith this eminent service to Ms State, and especially to
his native section of the Old Dominion, Mr. Faulkner
broadened into the domain of national politics.
The compromise measures of Mr. Clay of 1850 changed
the political affiliation of many men, especially in the
South. Mr. Faulkner was one of those who drifted to
the side of the Union in the ensuing division. The South,
equally with the North, was dissatisfied with the terms
of the compromise ; the North with relation to the Fugi
tive Slave Law clause, and the South because of the feel
ing that too much had been conceded to. the anti-slave
power. The planting States, with South Ca;-olina in the
lead, were ready then to secede, but they could not de
pend upon the help of the other Southern States, and
hence there was no open revolt. This may be said to
have been the opening of the division in the South uijon
the question of union or disunion.
In 1851 Henry Beddinger, of Jefferson County, Avas a
candidate for Congress In the district in which Mr. Faulk
ner lived. He took the position of South Carolina on the
compromise measure of 1850 as Ms platform. Mr. Faulk
ner was brought out as an indepedent candidate against
him, in behalf of the Union cause and against further
sectional agitation. Ben Hill, of Georgia, was a candi
date the same year in his State on the same platform.
The first contest of Mr. Faulkner for a seat in the national
legislature was a memorable one. Mr. Beddinger was
the regular Democratic candidate, with a majority in the
district of several hundred in his favor, and be made war
to the knife against his opponent. Extracts from Mr.
Faulkner's speech In favor of the abolition of slavery in
1832 were printed in red letters and posted everywhere
In the district, and every possible effort Avas made to
array public opinion against him on account of the first
conspicuous act of his political life. AVith that unweary-

Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner. 325
ing industry and zeal AvhIch have always been character
istic of Mr. Faulkner, he entered Into this fight and made
an active canvass, holding a jDublic discussion with his
opponent at least once in every county of the district.
He was elected to Congress by a good majority in a dis
trict which was largely Democratic, but Avhere the Union
sentiment was at that time roused into fervid action.
\.
IN CONGRESS.
AVhen he took his seat in Congress the old parties were
undergoing rapid disintegration, and in July, 1852, Mr.
Faulkner, in an address to the people of the country,
joined Alexander H. Stephens and Robert Toombs, of
Georgia, and several other AVhig Representatives In Con
gress from the South, la declaring that as General Scott
Avas the candidate of the Free Soil AA-Ing of the AVhig
Party, opposed to the compromises of 1850, they could
not support him for the Presidency. Thus Mr. Faulk
ner, with those other great Southern leaders, left the
AVhig Party and joined his political fortunes with De
mocracy. In the heated discussion of the hour the Whig
party charged the Democracy with opposition to the
compromise measures of 1850. To refute this charge Mr.
Faulkner prepared and delivered a speech in Congress,
August 2, 1852, which, in the printed edition, was enti
tled " The Compromise — The Presidency — Political Par
ties." It Avas a great effort, an exhaustive review of the
issues wlr'ch had disrupted the AVhig party, and a com
plete refutation, from a Democratic standpoint, of the
charge that the Democracy, as an organization, was op
posed to the compromise measures. It Avas also a splen
did effort in behalf of Mr. Pierce for the Presidency.
This speech at once attracted public attention, and was
made a campaign document by the Democratic party.
Mr. John C. Rives, the noted Congressional printer, in
a letter written in December, 1852, says : " I printed for
the National Democratic Committee 93,000 copies of Mr.

826 Life of the late Hon. C. J. FaulJiner.
Faulkner's speech, made in Congress before the close of
its last session. I Avould have printed more if I could
have procured paper In time. Although I have been en
gaged in the printing business here twenty odd years, I
do not recollect to have printed so many copies of any
other speech. The speech was printed at other offices,
but I do not know hoAv large the editions were."
The fact is that more than 125,000 copies of the speech
Avere printed and distributed, and it Avas the text for
every stump orator for the Democracy during the memo
rable campaign of that year. This change of Mr. Faulk
ner of his political affiliations naturally created him new
adversaries at home, and he returned there to combat
them. He took the stump, and in a series of speeches
justified his course, carrying his district for Pierce by a
handsome majority. This fixed his position definitely in
the Democratic party. For four successive terms he was
elected to Congress over popular candidates, and as early
in the service he had attained, so to the end he main
tained a leading position In the national legislature. He
was made chairman of the Military Committee of the
House at the beginning of his second term, and had a
leading place on other important committees. His eulo
gy ux)on Henry Clay attracted great attention, as did his
speech in favor of opening the way to promotion In the
army to merit, without reference to the place of educa
tion, which Avas intended to be, and Avas, a blow at the
military oligarchy which has Its origin at AA^est Point.
Naturally there are many others in Congress and upon
the stump Avorthy of equal commendation, as it was
known of him that Jie Avas the most ceaseless of Avorkers,
and his only recreations during his public life were at in
tervals to take xpart in those social reunions where he
could enjoy contact Avith the best minds of the nation.
It Avas also true of Mm that at home, as Avell as when en
grossed In the cares of public life, he gave close applica
tion to his private affairs and the interests of his clients.

Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner. 327
His laAV office was near, but apart from his house, and
that office had been his Avorkshop for more than half a
century. It was a trite saying in the little town in
which he lived that the light was never out in that office-
until after each new day was born.
AVhen the Know-Nothing craze was at Its height Mr.
Faulkner made a memorable canvass in Virginia in con
junction with Henry A. Wise, the key-note of which was
the declaration, in the language of Mr. Faulkner in Con
gress, ' ' I am not, never have been and never expect to
be, a member of any oath-bound, secret political associa
tion. I claim communion with but one political organi-
tion — and that is the great National Democratic Party of
this country^a party that has shown itself, after the
most ample experience, broad enough to embrace all the
vast interests of liberty and humanity, and strong
enough to uphold in its firm and conservative grasp the
Constitution of my country and the Union of these States."
Mr. Faulkner followed this struggle against the intol
erance of Know-Nothlngism by attending the National
Democratic Convention in Cincinnati, in 1856. He was
with a majority of the Virginia delegation in his prefer
ence for Mr. Buchanan as the nominee of that body.
For the conspicuous services he had rendered the party
he was chosen Chairman of the Democratic Congressional
Committee for the conduct of the Presidential campaign.
But for the action of the Electoral College of Virginia,
in recommending John B. Floyd as the preference of the
State for a Cabinet position, Mr. Faulkner would have
been made Secretary of AVar upon the accession of Mr.
Buchanan to the Presidency. The new President, how
ever, tendered the distinguished Virginian the hardly
less Inferior position of Minister to France. .But Mr.
Faulkner Avas in Congress, and Hon. John Y. Mason,
of Virginia, Avho Avas a personal friend, was the Minister
of the United States in France. Mr. Faulkner therefore
declined the mission, rather than disturb an old friend

328 Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner.
in his place. Mr. Mason having died during the pen
dency of the canvass of 1859, Mr. Faulkner was nomina
ted and confirmed as our new Minister to France, and
repaired at once to his new post of duty.
VI.
MINISTER TO FRANCE.
His services as a diplomat were useful to Ms country
and honorable to himself ; it was through his efforts that
the right of expatriation Avas first admitted by the gov
ernment of France, and naturalized citizens of the United
States given the right to visit the land of their birth with
out molestation, or fear of military espionage The
great bulk of Mr. Faulkner's dispatches while a foreign
minister have never been given to the public by the State
Department, but when, in 1866, the Senate called for the
correspondence of that Department upon the great ques
tion of the claims of European governments to exact
military service from naturalized citizens of the United
States, those of Mr. Faulkner Avere presented, and in
this way the general public was for the first time made
aware that in less than a month after his presentation at
the Court of Napoleon III., he presFed the issue ujDon
that sovereign to a conclusion in harmony with the wishes
and demands of the United States, despite the strenuous
opposition of M. Thouvenal, the French Minister for
Foreign Affairs. For this he received the thanks of the
President in his annual message to Congress. During
his term of service at the French Court, there Avere no
great overshadowing questions, except the one to Avhich
allusion has been made, betAveen the two countries, until
the armed conflict between the North and South in this
country becameimminent. The sympathies of Napoleon,
it is Avell known, were early enlisted upon the side of
the South, and this fact naturally made the position of
Mr. Faulkner at the French Court exceedingly delicate.
As a citizen of the South, AA'hatever he might do, or omit
to do, was sure to meet with misrepresentation at AA^ash-

Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner. 829
ington. But he was so circumspect in his conduct that
he was not only held blameless, but received the thanks
of the government for his services.

s^

It was not to be expected, however, that in a period so
stormy, his services, however meritorious and conspicu
ous, would protect him from detraction ; malignant as
persions upon Ms loyalty to his country and fidelity to
his official trust, were carried from Paris to AA-'asMngton,
and these became so frequent and jiersistent that soon
after the Inauguration of President Lincoln, Mr. Faulk
ner took notice of them in a letter to Mr. S*^Avard, Secre
tary of State, in which he took occasion to deny in strong
terms that either in his official or private capacity, he
had been disloyal to the United States. It is unneces
sary to present in detail the leading acts iu Mr. Faulk
ner's service as a diplomat ; but it was always creditable,
for in all his mental characteristics he was eminently
fitted for such a career. A man of great self-poise, equa
ble temperament, and while of strong convictions, know
ing hoAv to hold them in check, it is not singular that he
was able to Avalk in the paths of diplomacy without
danger or difficulty, either to himself personally or the
country he represented. Besides the power of present
ing his points strongly, he could put them adroitly, and
had the rare quality of making Avords persuasive. He
showed this attribute early in life. In his many contests
in a district that might oftentimes be called turbulent,
Mr. Faulkner not infrequently softened the asperities of
political Avarfare and won enemies to his support A
good story is told of him in his native village, Avhich
illustrates this point. Old Daniel Burkhardt, a conspic
uous personage in the business circles of Martinsburg,
was a quiet and eccentric man. He was exceedingly
critical, and was at times in favor of Mr. Faulkner, AvhIle
at other iDerlods he ojDposed him. In one closely contest
ed election he severelv criticised some of Mr. Faulkner's

830 Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner.
political acts, Avhen one of that gentleman's friends said
to him :
" Mr. Burkhardt, you ought not to be against Mr.
Faulkner. AVhy don't you see him, and he avIU explain
to your satisfaction the matter of Avhich you complain."
"Of course he avIII," was the prompt reply. "He
never did anything in his life he could not explain to the
satisfaction of anybody. That is the reason I keep out
of his way."
Mr. Faulkner, however, did not permit Mr. Burkhardt
to escape him, but made the explanation of Avhich the
latter Avas in fear, and thus gained his support. This
incident not only illustrated the persuasive power of Mr.
Faulkner, but it also allowed Ms extraordinary gift in
gaining and ever afterwards retaining, the friendship of
those who had been personally or politically inimical to
him. Mr. Faulkner Avas relieved of his diplomatic duties
early in 1861, by Hon. AVm. L. Dayton, of New Jersey,
who had been appointed as his successor by President
Lincoln. He left France Avith the respect of the govern
ment to Avhich he had been accredited, and the good
Avishes of the many American citizens with whom he had
been brought into personal or official relations. He had
so conducted himself in his delicate relations to the
French government, growing out of the anomolous con
dition of affairs in his own country, that there Avas not
even a pretence that he had been unfaithful In his con
duct. He, from the first, refused to discuss these matters
AvIth M. Thouvenal, and never but once expressed an
unofficial opinion as to the action of the government to
ward the seceding States. Just before his departure M.
Thouvenal asked him if he believed his government
would use coercion to preserve the autonomy of the
Union. To this Mr. Faulkner said that he did not, but
added that he felt- compelled to decline to discuss the
policy of his government, as jMr. Dayton Avas then on his

Life of the late Hon. C. J. Faulkner. 331
Avay to France, with definite instructions from AVashing
ton upon that and cognate matters.
VII.
A PRISONER OF STATE.
After Mr. Faulkner returned to the United Sta,tes,
some American newspapers contained long accounts of
Mr. Yancey and other Confederate diplomatic commis
sioners having been received by Mr. Faulkner, presented
to the French Minister of Foreign Affairs, and even to
the Emperor himself. It is needless to say that these
were all fabrications, for Mr. Faulkner did not meet the
Confederate Commissioners until two months after he
had ceased to be Minister, and left France, and then, by
accident, on the Derby race course in England. On that
occasion Mr. Yancey never intimated to Mr. Faulkner
the nature of his mission abroad, and the relation of the
Confederate States to the European Powers was never the
subject of discussion between them. When Mr. Faulk
ner returned to the United States the Avar had been for
some time in progress. He went direct to AVashington,
to pay Ms respects to the President and Secretary Sew
ard, and settle his account with the Government. While
in France he had been entrusted with a large contingent
fund, to meet the expenses of other missions besides his
own. He settled all his accounts, received the balance
due him from the Government, and having made his
final visit to the State Department, was about to leave
for his home In Martinsburg, AA'hen he Avas arrested and
throAvn into prison. He demanded of the Secretary of
AVar, to know upon what charge he had been arrested
and detained. He received the following reply :
"You are held as a distinguished citizen of Virginia,
as a hostage for James McGraw, State Treasu.rer of Penn
sylvania, who, while searching for the dead body of a
friend on the battle-field of Bull Run, Avas taken and
thrown into prison, by the peoi)le of your State, uoav in
rebellion against the authority of the Government, and,

332 Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner.
so help me God, you shall never be relieved until James
McGraw and his party are set at liberty and are safe.
" Simon Cameron, Secretary of AVar."
The characteristic ansAver from Gen. Cameron settled
the question inthe mind of Mr. Faulkner, and fully con
tradicted the story that he had been arrested because of
infidelity to his trust while Minister to France. After
being confined in AVashington for a month he was trans
ferred to Port Lafayette. AVhile imprisoned there he was
offered his liberty upon the condition of taking the oath
of allegiance to the United States. He refused to accept
his liberty upon those terms, for the reason that he had
been guilty of no offence, and had been confined without
any charge having been made against Mm, and that he
Avould submit to no conditions for his release. Soon
after this he learned that Mr. McGraAv, of Pennsylvania,
had been set at liberty and was at home. He then ad
dressed a note to Gen. Simon Cameron, Secretary of AA^ar,
requesting a fulfillment of the promise to release him,
Avhen Mr. McGraw should be again safe Avithin the
Federal lines. Gen. Cameron promptly replied, saying :
"You are no longer in my custody. Yoa have been
transferred to the Secretary of State, as a political
prisoner. " Simon Cameron, Secretary of AVar."
Mr. Faulkner's offence against the State was that he
had refused to take the oath of allegiance. Soon after
this occurred he was removed to Fort AA^arren, in Boston
harbor. AA^hlle he Avas in confinement there !Mr. Ely, of
New York, a Congressman who had been captured while
a s^Dectator at the battle of Bull Run, began to press the
Government to secure Ms release. It AA-as proposed to
exchange Mr. Faulkner for Mr. Ely, but Jeff Davis, in
his annual message, at Richmond, A^a., declared he
Avould make no exchange for xMr. Faulkner, but Avould
make his arrest a ground of arraignment before the civil
ized Avorld. After considerable parleying it was finally
decided that Mr. Faulkner should be granted a parole, of

Life of tJie late Hon. 0. J. FaulJiner. 833
thirty days, to go to Richmond and effect, if possible,
an exchange betAveen himself and Mr. Ely. His arrival
in Richmond caused great exceltement ; he was greeted
by the Governor, Mayor of the city and a large con
course of people, and called upon to make a public ad
dress', which he did. His interview with Jefferson Davis
was interesting, as showing the relative position of the
two men at that period. During the conversation Mr.
Faulkner said : "Mr. Davis, I fear we are just begin
ning a long and bloody war ; a struggle in which, I can
not help thinking, the South avIII be unsuccessful."
"I agree with you &ir," Mr. Davis replied, "that Ave
are at the outset of a protracted and desperate conflict,
but I do not agree with you that it will be an unsuccess
ful one."
This decided difference of opinion did not have the
effect of making the interview altogether pleasant, and
Mr. Davis did not, at any subsequent period, take kind
ly to Mr. Faulkner. Finally, but with great reluctance,
Mr. Davis consented to the exchange of Mr. Ely for Mr.
Faulkner, and when that had been accomplished the lat
ter retired to his home in Berkeley County, but remain
ed there but a few days, he having received a letter from
General Stonewall Jackson, who invited him to become
a member of his staff. He was accordingly, by Lieut.
Gen. Stonewall Jackson, appointed his chief of staff,
with the rank, Lieut. Colonel. He Avrote all of the offi
cial reports of that distinguished soldier, which have al
ways been regarded as models of military literature.
While he Avas absent from his home, during the Avar,
Martinsburg, near which he lived, was alternately in pos
session of the Federal and Confederate forces, and al
though his two sons were in the Confederate army,
Ms property was not seriously injured. His old home,
around which clustered the associations of a century, was
ordered to be burned, by Gen. David Hunter, and an
officer appeared to carry this command into effect. The

334 Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner.
house was saved by a telegraphic order from Abraham
Lincoln, to whom an appeal was made by Mrs.
Faulkner' who had resided there during all the war.
The close of the war found Mr. Faulkner near Ap
pomattox, where Lee surrendered to Grant. One of
the first acts of Mr. Lincoln after the surrender of Gen.
Lee, was to request Mr. Faulkner to return home, and
he sent Col. AVard Lamon with a message to him, for
that purpose. Mr. Faulkner, after the close of hostili
ties, returned to his home in Berkeley County, the un
timely and tragical death of Mr. Lincoln having preven
ted the conference which the President had intended to
have with Mr. Faulkner, when, no doubt, the opinion of
the latter on the subject of reconstruction, AvhIch had
become one of absorbing interest at the close of the war,
would have been given due consideration.
VIII.
AFTER THE WAR.
The State of West Virginia had been created out of
the Old Dominion AA'hen Mr. Faulkner returned to his
home. There were new men at the helm, and a new
order of things in general. The sting of war had left its
rankling in the statutes of the new State, and he found
himself not only debarred from the inherrent right of
American citizenship, but even of practicing his profes
sion as a lawyer.
At that time this section of the country, almost more
than any other along the border, Avas disturbed by the
receding waves of civil Avar, and the legal, no less than
the constitutional, standing of the new State was often
called in question. Nothwithstanding the great changes
which the war had wrought, and the bitter animosities
of the hour, of Avhich at this time there can be but a faint
idea, Mr. Faulkner, regarding the separation as irrever
sible, at once took strong grounds in favor of the new
State of Virginia, Avhich was the offspring, not of revo
lution, but of civil Avar. He held, and Avith the spirit of

Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. FaulJiner. 335
prophecy upon him, that time Avould soften the asperi
ties of the armed conflict, and that AVest Virginia, freed
from the unjust discriminations of the dominant section
east of the Blue Ridge, would speedily become one- of
the most flourishing commouAvealths In the sisterhood
of States.
The contest had commenced in 1832, for the overthrow
of the unjust discriminations against the section of the
State where he had been born, and where were all his in
terests, social, business and political, had been ended by
the sword severing the section Avest of the Blue Ridge
from what was then called, and is yet known, as the Old
Dominion. It is needless to describe in detail his many public
acts from 1865 to 1872 in behalf of the Noav State. Of
these the most significant and important was his stand In
favor of the tAvo rich counties of Jefferson and Berkeley
being attached to West Virginia. The old State of Vir
ginia sued for them as a part of her domain, claiming
that they were not legally attached to the neAv State
when created. Mr. Faulkner showed his fidelity to the
western section by taking positive grounds in favor of
the right of AVest Virginia to these counties. Virginia
Instituted her suit in the Supreme Court of the United
States, and Hon. Reverdy Johnson was retained as the
leading counsel for AVest Virginia, but he was made
Minister to England before the case came on for argu
ment, and Gov. Boreman, at the request of the delega
tion from those counties, engaged Mr. Faulkner to take
Mr. Johnson's place. The case was argued before the
Supreme Court of the United States, in February, 1871,
The argument of Mr. Faulkner Avas an exhaustive pres
entation of the equity of the claim of AVest Virginia to
the two counties, and they were awarded to her by the
decision of the Court. In January, 1872, Mr. Faulkner
was a member of the Constitutional Convention of AVest
Virginia, which framed the present fundamental law of

336 Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner.
the State. This was the first even quasi-political office
he had held since the Avar. He, was chairman of the
Judiciary Committee on Revision, the two most impor
tant in the body. It is needless to say that he was one
of the leaders In the debates and work of that body.
In June of the same year his political disabilities Avere
removed by special act of Congress, and in the fall of
1874 he was elected to the House of Representatives, by
3,436 majority, in a district until that time doubtful. He
served on the important committees of Foreign Rela
tions and Education and labor, and took a leading posi
tion in the debates on all important questions. As his
term Avas drawing to a close he declined a re-election, for
the j)urpose of becoming a candidate for United States
Senator, and In the contest for that position which fol
lowed, In the Legislature, he secured a plurality of the
Democratic votes in caucus, but was defeated in the Leg
islature by a combination of the Republicans Avith a
number of Democrats in favor of his opponent. He was,
at a subsequent period, mentioned as a candidate for
Governor, but was again defeated by a combination of
hostile Interests, and then withdrew from public life.
IX.
HOW A LADY SAVED HER HOME FROM THE TORCH.
"Madam, I am ordered to burn this house to the ground.
You will have one hour to leave It ; you will be permit
ted to take nothing away except the Avearing apparel of
yourself and daughters."
Thus spoke General Martindale, an officer of the First
Nev/ York Cavalry, who Avas at that time serving as a
staff officer to General David S. Hunter, who was in com
mand of the Union forces in the Shenandoah Valley dur
ing the eventful years of 1863-64. The house was one
of those quaint ancestral mansions seen nowhere but in
the South, and there so common as hardly to attract at
tention. It was odd ; It was almost rude in its architec
ture, but even its rather faded exterior gave evidence of

Life of the late Hon. C. J. Faulkner. 337
the wealth of hospitality, and accumulations of rare
AVork, both literary and artistic. In its historical treas
ures it was esi^eclally rich, and besides the great array of
valuable books it contained many manuscripts even
then of great worth, which Avere to become more valua
ble AvIth the lapse of time.
This house filled with treasures and crowded with
sacred memories, had been the home of the lady ad
dressed, and of her progenitors for generations. To her
every room — nay, every corner and part of every room
— was peopled by happy, wholesome memories. It is
not strange, therefore, that to her the words of the officer
which doomed her home to the torch were freighted with
no common sorrow.
But she was not a Avoman to sit down and wait for mis
fortune to overAvhelm her. She had little time to do any
thing to save her house ; little chance that anything she
might do would be successful. But she determined to
make an effort to save her home, and she did what many
others did in these distressful days ; she made by tele
graph an appeal to the patient, sympathetic, forgiving
Abraham Lincoln, President of the United States. A
messenger galloped to the town, and the fateful message
was instantly flashed to Washington. The distracted
lady could only wait and each moment of that hour
seemed to her laden with the anxiety of a century.
Meanwhile the officer and his soldiers lounged upon the
beautiful lawn that stretched out before the old mansion
to the main road, fully a quarter of a mile away, waiting
for the appointed time to apply the torch. They knew
nothing of what the Mistress of the mansion had done,
and if they had known would not have been greatly
concerned. They were only obeying orders and had so
little liking for their work that they would be glad of
some excuse for not doing it.
The moments came and went with exasperating speed ;
the old clock in the hall seemed to count the minutes
22

338 Life of tJie late Hon..C. J. FaulJiner.
into the past with malignant and unusual speed. The
servants Avere hastily packing trunks with the few arti
cles to be spared from the flames, but the lady herself
seemed to take no notice of what was going on about her.
She sat at a AvIndow, which commanded a view of the
road leading to the town, as if to catch the first glimpse
of a horseman flying to her relief.
The three quarters had gone ; the lady still strained
her eyes at the Avindow, the soldiers still lounged list
lessly under the shade trees, but their talk Avas becom
ing more subdued and their dislike for the task before
them Avas becoming more api^arent.
Suddenly the clatter of the horse's hoofs In full gallop
was heard down the road. The lady si^rang to her feet
with an expression of mingled hope and fear upon her
face. The soldiers hardly noticed the rapid approach of
the. courier, for they could not be aware that the Incident
had any interest for them. The messenger came into
plain view and the lady saAv that he Avas waving a letter
in his hand as he urged Ms horse to -greater speed. In
an instant more the messenger sprang from his horse and
rushed up the broad graveled path to the house. The
lady met him at the door. He handed her the telegram.
She tore it open. It was a brief message of only a few
words, but it had the potency of a kingly command.
It said :
" The property of Charles James Faulkner is exempt
from the order of General David S. Hunter for
the burning of the residences of three prominent citi
zens of the Shenandoah Valley, in retaliation for the
burning of the Governor Bradford's house in Maryland
by the Confederate forces."
(Signed) Abraham Lincoln.
The lady handed the telegram to Captain Grey Martin-
dale. He read It and raised his cap in salutation. Turn
ing to his men he gave the orders which put them in
their saddles, and in a moment more he and his small

Life of tJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner. 389
command Avere clattering down the dusty road toAvard
their camp. Thus was her home saved ; thus did Abra
ham Lincoln add another to the many acts of kindness
with which he illumed and softened the rugged road of
civil Avar which it Avas his hard fate to tread. Thus was
the painful duty of Captain Martindale accomplished.
The orders to burn houses had not been confined to this
single home, and when he appeared on the scene which
has been sketched in the above lines the officer and his
command had just come from the burning of other resi
dences of other prominent Virginians. General David
S. Hunter, who issued these orders, was one of those old-
time soldiers Avho believed that AVar was not a holiday
pastime. Among the homes which had been first burned
Avere those of Hon. Alexander R. Boteler, near Shep
herdstown, along the Potomac river, formerly a member
of Congress, and Avho for a time before the Avar had de
feated Mr. Faulkner in one of the most desperate and
closely contested Congressional elections Avhich had ever
taken place in that section. Another house burned was
that of Andrew Hunter, a member of the Confederate
Congress and a cousin of General Hunter. He found his
consanguinity to the Union commander was no protec
tion for his property. There seemed to be some of the
irony of fate In these occurrences of the Avar.
At that time the rebels held as a prisoner Mr. Ely, a
member of Congress from NeAv York, who had been one
of the many Avho had gone down from Washington to
see the rebellion crushed at Bull Run. They saw another
sort of spectacle and Ely was captured, and the rebels
clung' to Mm as a prize of great value. Finally the
friends of Mr. Ely hit upon the plan of exchanging him
for Faulkner, and by their importunities finally gained
the consent of the Government at AA^ashington to their
scheme. Mr. Faulkner was to be released upon parole,
and went to Richmond to effect the desired exchange.
He Avas successful. Mr. Ely was restored to his home.

840 Life of the late Hon. C. J. FaulJiner.
and he Avas released and sent AvIthin the Confederate
lines. After a short stay in Richmond, where his arrival had
caused great excitement, Mr. Faulkner retired to the
home of his daughter, near Appomattox, where most of
his time during the continuance of the rebellion was
spent. He served for a time, however, upon the staff of
General Stonewall Jackson, and wrote most of the orders
and reports of that officer which received such general
praise as models of military literature. After the close
of the war he returned to his home near Martinsburg,
where he has ever since continued to live. Soon after
his return he began to take an active interest in the pub
lic affairs of the new Sta;te of West Virginia, which was
that portion of the Old Dominion which had always en
listed his heartiest sympathies and best efforts.
It is worthy of being added that General Cameron and
Mr. Faulkner had broken the bread of reconciliation
since the war. Both were far advanced in years, the one
having passed four score years, the other fast approach
ing that advanced age. There was one more incident.
Soon after the war Mr. Faulkner and Mr. Magraw, al
though the lines of their fates had so crossed each other
at a stirring period, met for the first time, and their in
terview was interesting and pleasant to both. It is queer
how time softens the asperities of this life and brings
together those who were far separated by the circum
stance of war. The old mile-posts that tell the story of
that conflict are fast falling and crumbling into decay.
The history of one is full of interest, but where is there
one that furnishes more good thoughts and facts ,than
the one in that old house that Grey Martindale was or
dered to burn. LIFE'S LABORS OVER.
The death of Charles James Faulkner occurred at his
residence, Boydville, Martinsburg, at fifty minutes past
six o'clock Saturday morning, Nov. 1st, 1884. It was

Life of the late Hon. C. J. FaulJiner. 841
the belief of his physicians that he would have passed
away several days before but for a restless energy which
ever stirred within him, and which he in particular sum
moned up in the last hours of his life. But Ms end was
come and, surrounded by all the members of Ms family,
he drew Ms last breath and passed peacefully away.
There Avere present at his death his two sons, Hon. E.
Boyd and Judge Chas. James Faulkner and families ; his
six daughters, Mrs. S. P. F. Pierce, Mrs. Thos, Bocock,
Mrs. Jno. P. Campbell, Mrs. Dr. AV. S. Love, Mrs. Joel
AA^. Flood and Mrs. Dr. J. AV. McSherry ; also Dr. W.
S. Love and family, Hon. Thos. S. Bocock, Mr. Faulkner
Pierce, Mrs. Jas. Booker, Miss Boiling Flood and Miss
Ella Bocock. As soon as he was dead the sad news was
sent over the wires to his friends around, and many were
the Avords of consolation and sympathy returned to the
bereaved family. The services of Ms funeral took place
on Monday foil owing and were largely attended. Among
the prominent men present were Judge W. S. Clark,
Judge Richard Parker, Hon. Holmes Boyd, attorneys P.
H. Boyd, H. H. Boyd, John E. Norrls, James E. Norris,
Capt. Powell, T. B. Kennedy, President, and Superin
tendent Boyd, of the Cumberland Valley Railroad ; Mr.
Gallaher, of the Free Press ; J. Rufus Smith, Esq.,
and a large number of others. Nearly a hundred of the
Masonic fraternity, of which order he was a member,
turned out, and headed by the City Band marched at 3
o'clock, the hour of his funeral, to solemn music to the
residence, around which had gathered by this time more
than two thousand people. The body of the venerable
Chas. James Faulkner lay in the parlor in a handsome
casket, decked with wreaths of beautiful fiowers ; floral
crown, cross and inscription of Father made of roses
and rare flowers were placed upon the casket cover.
After all had viewed in procession the honored remains,
the Presbyterian choir sang " Rock of ages cleft for me;"
prayer was offered by Rev. Pitt, after which Rev. F. M.

342 Life of iJie late Hon. C. J. Faulkner.
Woods delivered a funeral oration on the late deceased,
a tribute to his memory. Rev. R. C. Holland followed
with prayer, and reading of hymn "Nearer my God to
Thee," by Rev. Andrews, which was sung by choir and
benediction by Rev. F. M. AVoods. After the sermon
the funeral cortege marched to the Episcopal Cemetery,
next to the lawn, led by the City Band, followed by
nearly 100 members of the Masonic fraternity under the
auspices of Equality Lodge, the remains carried by the
pall bearers, Blackburn Hughes, J. L. W. Baker, P-
Showers, C. P. Matthaei, J. W. PItzer, D. Hedges, A. J.
Thomas, C. W. Doll, C. M. Shaffer, Wm. Kilmer, Jacob
Miller, J. AV. Thatcher, M. S. Grantham, Casper Stump,
Col. J. Q. A. Nadenbousch, J. H. Gettinger and J. N.
Abell ; the ushers, Messrs. E. J. Simpson, H. L. Doll,
Stuart AV. Walker, G. C. Janney, G. C. Swartz, A. S.
Hughes, and D. C. Hunter, who followed bearing floral
tribute of Father, Grandfather and Rest with cross and
crown, the immediate members of the family, two sons,
six daughters, thirteen grandchildren — only three absent
— the near relatives of the deceased, the bar and officers
of the Court, the City Council and corporation officers
and over two thousand citizens. The services at the
grave were conducted by the Masons with beautiful and
impressive ceremony such as is usual on occasions of
Masonic burial. Never perhaps In the history of Mar
tinsburg were there so many people gathered together to
pay their last tribute of respect to the honored remains
of a venerable citizen, one who was successful as a jurist,
politician, diplomatist, and statesman, Avhose life avIU
live after him, and his deeds be recorded on the pages of
the world's history.

CHAPTER XIV.
THE CHURCHES— ORGANIZATION AND PRESENT
CONDITION.
^T has been stated in a former chapter that the Tusca-
^ rora Church, about two miles from the city, was the
first place where the gospel Avas publicly preached and
divine service performed west of the Blue Ridge Moun
tain. This was and still remains a Presbyterian edifice.
Among the early settlers a number of Irish Presbyterians,
with a few Scotch and English families, removed from
Pennsylvania and settled along Back Creek, the North
^lountain and Opequon. The Baptists Avere the next to
establish a public Avorship, which was done about the
year 1754. Mr. Stearns, a preacher of this sect, with
several others, removed from New England, and under
the care of Rev. John Gerard, formed a Baptist Church
on the Opequon, the first founded this side of the Blue
Ride The Bajptlsts were not among the earlist emi
grants ; but in the years 1742 or 1748, about fourteen
families of that persuasion migrated from NeAV Jersey
and settled in the vicinity of what Is now called Gerards
town. From this date other denominations sprang up,
and at the present day our entire county is supplied with
well regulated and disciplined churches of nearly every
sect. The following sketches are given of our churches,
that have sown their seed broad- cast and been the means
of establishing religion throughout the county :
TUSCARORA CHURCH— THE OLDEST WEST OF THE BLUE
RIDGE MOUNTAINS.
On a bright Tuesday morning, April 3d, 1888, 1 mount
ed a bicycle and wended my way in the direction of the
old Presbyterian Church, situated on Tuscarora. I seated

844 The CJiurcJies.
myself on a bench near by, and carefully scanned the
small stone building of one story, on which every trace
of mortar, betAveen the stone, seemed to speak of the
years, yea a century or more, through Avhich it has stood
the test of time — the wintry blasts and the ralnbeat of
bygone days. Then I would pause, upon looking at the
wood work, which, when compared with the Avorkman-
ship of the present day, presents rather a rude appear
ance, and one can readily Imagine that the erection of
buildings In those days consisted of hard labor, with
poor tools to work with. Next, I directed my attention
to the stone steps in front, the weather-beaten doors, and
the old shingled roof, Avhich plainly show that by their
use they Avere not over-estimated by the workmen. Sit
ting beneath a small birch tree, I began to wonder, as If
in a dream, Avhether the early settlers that erected this
grand old building, ever gave thought to the fact that
their good works and deeds would be handed down to
rising generations for centuries to come. But then my
dream was interrupted and awakened by the peck of the
wood-chuck, the chirp of the sparrow, and the warble of
the robin overhead.
I turned my gaze heavenward, then looked around me
over the beautiful landscape of Improved and cultivated
soil, the neat dwellings — and then glancing at a marble
slab before me, I thought of His blessed word on high :
"Surely their good works do follow them." Interrupted
by the warbling notes of the bird overhead, I looked up
at it, and with its little throat swelled it seemed to say,
that happiness in His sight is the Goddess of all nature
divine. Truly, it Avas a grand sight— vA'ith the bright shining
sun above, to announce the coming of spring, — the bud
ding of trees around, stirred now and then by a fresh
breeze and sending forth a fragrant odor, — the sod be
neath sprouting up, and beginning to don its coat of
green — all of which seemed to teach a soul- comforting

TJie CJiurcJies. 345
lesson: "A great and loving Father, creator of heaven
and earth, hath endoAved us Avith these blessings of na
ture." And then upon reading a slab before me, I Avas
again reminded : "According to the manner in Avhich
thou hast lived, so shalt thou be judged, at the judgment
bar of God, He that hath endoAved us with all these
blessings." Here I was interrupted and awakened from
my reverie by an inquirer, Avho wanted to knoAv my busi
ness at this lone spot, and at such a time. After satisfy
ing him with my object and reason, he Avalked off ; and
again I was left alone, save my God, AvIth the tombs of
the dead. I raised my eyes, and found myself confront
ing the tomb of Rev. Louis F. AVIlson, on Avhich were
these words : "Died March 24th, 1873, in his G4th year
— Our Faithful pastor for 37 years." This aroused a
deep sense of feeling Avithin me, and I began to wander
amongst the tombs, of perhaps, many loved ones, en
deared to both God and mankind. I noticed particularly
an old slab, rustic and covered Avith moss, and propped
up at each end by small foundations. AVith a small
stick I cleaned It as best could be done, and AvIth a pen
cil traced the letters in order to make them out. The
stone has been washed by the storms, until the letters can
hardly be found. It read thus : "Under this marble
rests the body of Rev. Hugh A^ance, a faithful minister
of the Gospel of Christ 26 years. Born In the year 1736.
Died in the year 1791. Live the life If U would die the
death of the righteous. This stone is erected to preserve
and perpetuate the Memory of this AA^orthy Man by his
affectionate friends in Berkeley County, Virginia."
Nearby stood a number of Avooden slabs, almost rotted
and decayed, and it is to be supposed that at an earl^y
day these tombs were enclosed by a fence, as four snags
of posts are still standing. I became interested in the
names and dates of the slabs, and began to note some of
which I thought might prove interesting to the reader.
Among them were John Chenowith, died October 8th,

346 The Churches.
1842, aged 63 years ; Thomas Miller, died November 30th,
1854, aged 64 years ; James Chenowith, did 1836, aged
53 years ; Emily Marker, died 1838, aged 21 years ; Mar
garet Hull, died August 31st, 1846, aged 57 years ; AVm.
Slauter, died April 28 th, 1834, aged 52 years ; Robert
Lyle, died 1786, aged 34 years ; Robert Brighton, died
September 10th, 1797, aged 60 years ; Margaret Brighton,
died September 20th, 1786, aged 47 years ; Margaret Herd,
died July 26th, 1794, aged 27 years ; David Miller, died
Se]3tember 15 th, 1825, aged 51 years ; the next was an
old blue lime stone marked: "Here lies the body of
Hugh Lyle, Avho departed this life April 14th, A. D.,
1790, aged 84 years." Another was an old sand stone,
the letters almost Avashed away, and bore the name of
Hugh Lyle, Jr., died February 27th, 1797, aged 42 years.
In a large stone vault were contained AVm. Snodgrass
and wife. The date of his death was May 13th, 1836, at
an age of 61 years ; and his wife died In 1852, aged 76
years, There was a large marble tomb Avith the Holy
Bible engraved upon it, and the name of Sarah Ireland,
who died January 20th, 1857, aged 79 years ; also her
son Alexander who died Ajjril 29th, 1800, at an age of 9
years. A number of graves Avere marked with small
rocks and Avooden slabs — and there was nothing to desig
nate the name of the dead ,or date of death. Some of
the slabs were rustic and almost entirely covered by moss,
or washed by the storms until the letters are invisible.
In places the grave has been entirely lost by the growth
of the monster oak. Near the center stands a large
brick enclosure — the wooden roof entirely rotted away,
and the walls fast going to ruin. Beneath this, I am in
formed, a number of persons were buried, but nothing
remains to give information as to who they were.
After strolling around to my heart's content, I return
ed to the church and took my seat in a side door. I
looked over the xwofile of stones and slabs, some of which
have fallen down, and others broken and decayed — and

The ChurcJies. 847
then pondered long in meditation, whether the jpresent
generation knew who and which of their foreparents
might be buried here ; or whether many, perhaps, given
up for' lost, might be sleeping under this sod. At this
moment the sweet notes of a little bird, perched nearby,
thrilled my soul :
I looked around, o'er the tombs of the dead,
.-Ind thought their spirits, from overhead,
AVere looking down with earnest eye.
On tombs in which their bodies lie.
AVhen lo, the stillness seemed to say,
Man is mortal— his life a day.
The church is still used for public worship by the
Presbyterian denomination, and has a small membership.
Interments are still made in the old graveyard, and fine
marble stones are taking the place of the old slabs. The
present pastor is the Rev. J. H. Gilmore, of Hedgesville,
who also has charge of the Falling AVaters church,
another very old edifice.
This sketch v«is written by the author of this book
especially for the history of the old graveyard. Amongst
the dates will be found some who Avere born nearly two
centuries ago, and have been buried on this spot nearly
a century. There were others, doubtless older, but no
trace could be found to identify them. However, I feel
confident that those mentioned avIII proA-e of interest and
value to the reader.
ST. JOHN'S LUTHERAN CHURCH,
This is one of the oldest congregations in the Valley
of Virginia. It was founded and formed here in 1775 by
German emigrants from Pennsylvania and Maryland.
In 1782 a church record for the exclusive use of the Lu
theran congregation was obtained, and still remains in
the archives of the church. The first regular pastor was
Rev. Christian Streit, who took charge of a Lutheran
congregation in AVinchester, Va., July 19th, 1785. The
circuit over which he had charge embraced the counties
of Berkeley, Jefferson and Frederick. He acted in the

848 TJie CJiurches.
capacity of Bishop or overseer of the Lutheran Interest
In these sections, ministering until 1790.
Succeeding Rev. Streit, and the first pastor who resided
here, was Rev. .J. D. Young, who took charge of the
congregation December 12th, 1790, in Avhich position he
served until 1800, Avhen after an absence of two years he
returned and served it from November 3d, 1802, up to
the time of his death, which occurred February 10th,
1804, at an age of 54 years. He was the originator of the
first known constitution or form of government for the
congregation, Avhich was signed by 103 members. The
congregation v\'as next supplied by Rev. F. AV. Jazinsky
for about one year, and who was succeeded by Rev. John
P. Ravenack, the second resident pastor. Rev. John
Kackler became pastor December 1st, 1817, and continued
until 1819. Rev. C. P. Krauth took charge in the au
tumn of 1819 and served six years, resigning in 1827.
His successor was Rev. Jacob Medtart, who entered upon
his pastorate In 1827, Avhich position he filled success
fully until 1835, when he resigned. The following is the
list of pastors as they succeeded each other, and their
terms, to the present date : Rev. Reuben Wiser, from
March 1st, 1835, to 1837 ; Rev. Charles Martin, March
29th, 1837 to 1842 ; Rev. Samuel Spreecher, Feb. 18th,
1842, to 1843 ; Rev. Joseph A. Seiss, May 29th, 1843, to
to 1846 ; Rev. John AA'Inter, November 23d, 1845, to 1847 ;
Rev. C. P. Krauth, Jr., November Sth, 1847, to 1848;
Rev. B. M. Schmucker, May 21st, 1848, to 1852 ; Rev.
Reuben A. Fink, April 1st, 1852, tol855; Rev. AA^m. Kopp,
November 25th, 1855, to 1857 ; Rev. Edwin Dorsey,
April 1st, 1858, to 1860 ; Rev. Charles Martin, October
21st, 1860, to 1861. Here an interruption A\'as made by
the late war, and the pastorate duties again resumed by
Rev. J. S. Hellig, August 9th, 1866, to 1868 ; Rev. M.
L. Culler, December 1st, 1869, to July 24th, 1881, and
was succeeded by Rev. R, C. Holland, the present pas
tor, November 28rd, 1881.

The Churches. 849
The first church edifice was ttie joint projperty of the
Lutheran and Reformed congregations, and was located
on the corner of Church and John streets, being built
entirely of logs. It was constructed for a tavern by Jacob
Shortel, but afterward purchased by the congregations
on the 20th of March, 1786, and then completed as a house
of God for religious worship. The tAvo lots lying between
King and John streets were also purchased at the same
time for the same OAvner, and have since been used as a
graveyard. At that time nails Avere too expensive, and
the plastering lathes were fastened by grooves cut into
the logs. A pipe organ was afterward purchased, the
bellows of which was worked by ropes and weighted
down by stones.
Rev. R. C. Holland, the present pastor, is a zealous
and earnest worker in the cause of religion. In his inter
course with his members and brethren, in religion, he
has won their friendship and esteem, and as a citizen the
respect of the people. The present membership of the
church is over 800, and the Sunday School numbers over
275 scholars. Mr. Geo. Knapp, for a number of years,
has successfully officiated as Sunday School Superinten
dent. The following is a list of the Deacons and Elders :
Deacons — G. S. Hill, D. A. Cline, Geo. D. Whitson, Jas.
H. Small and Geo. A. Mason. Elders — H. N. Deatrick,
Geo. Knapp, Geo. P. AValters and M. V. Small.
The old graveyard is an object of deep and tender In
terest to this city and much of the surrounding country,
as many have some relative or friend buried there. The
first cup of which there is any knowledge, which was
used by the congregation in the ministration of the Holy
Communion, is still in existence, bearing the date 1791,
and the mysterious inscription : "P. K.* B. K. M."
In 1815 a subscription was taken up in the two churches
amounting to $8,059.00, for the purpose of building a
new church for tlieir joint use. This project, for some
cause, had never been carried out Later on the present

850 TJie CJiurcJies.
site Avas purchased from Jacob Schoppert, and an edifice
erected at a cost of §3,786.50, and was dedicated June
10th, 1832, Rev. Abram Reck officiating. The church
was Improved again in 1854, and a large bell placed in
the tower. During the late Avar the congregations were
considerably scattered, and the church very much Injured.
In 1884 the church was remodeled, and extensive and
important changes made. The corner stone was laid
July 12th, 1884, with impressive services, by Rev. M. L.
Culler, the former pastor, and other clergymen assisting
the pastor. Rev. R. C. Holland. The cost of this im
provement amounted to $10,000.
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH.
The first Baptist Church of Martinsburg Avas originally
organized in 1858, with ten members. Rev. J. AA^. Jones
Avas chosen pastor, and, for nearly two years, preached
In the stone academy that stood near the Episcopal Cem
etery. In 1859 the lot on AA'est King street, where the
present building now stands, was bought, with a view of
building a church edifice, but soon after the late Avar be
tween the States came on, and but little was accomplished
until after the close of the Avar. During this time the
society had a mere nominal existence, and nothing wor
thy of note occurred in Its history ; but preaching was
held at intervals in the German Reformed and Lutheran
Churches. ' In the spring of 1869, ground was broken and
work commenced for the erection of a church building.
The corner stone was laid Aug. 24th, 1869, Avith imposing
Masonic ceremonies. Rev. J. A. Haynes, of Middleburg,
was present, and delivered an appropriate and elo
quent address. The work Avas then continued without
interruption, until the building was under roof. In the
month of May, 1870, the lecture room was completed,
and the first sermon was preached in the new house of
worship on the third Sunday of that month, by the pas
tor. Rev. AV. S. Penick. At this time the church AA'as
reorganized for active Avork AvIth Rev. AA^. S. Penick, as

TJie CJiurcJies. 351
pastor, and AV. M. A-'an Cleve and Joseph B. Kearfott as
deacons. On the second Sunday in June, 1870, the Sun
day School AA'as permanently established. The building
was completed in March, 1874, and on the 29th day of
that month It Avas dedicated, with an ajipropriate sermon
by Bev. J. AA^ M. AVIlliams, D. D., of Baltimore. The
total cost of the building, including furniture, etc., Avas
17,864.43, for which a collection of $656.50 was taken up
at the dedication services. The entire indebtedness has
since been paid off.
Rev. AA''. S. Penick served the church as pastor from
1869 to July 1st, 1874. Rev. P. P. Murray, of Buchanan,
W. A^'a., succeeded the former and entered upon his pas
torate with the church October 18th, 1874, continuing
until November 17th, 1875, Avheu he resigned and was
succeeded by Rev. A. E. Rogers, AA'ho entered upon, Ms
mission work in September, 1876. Since the advent of
the latter pastor the church has been constantly increas
ing. During the fall of 1881, both the interior and exte
rior of the building have been greatly improved, and the
entire front changed, at a cost of over $500.00.
Rev. A. E. Rogers was shortly afterAvard tendered a
call to Missouri, which he accepted. Rev. Rogers AA'as
then succeeded by Rev. R. H. Pitt, of Richmond, Va.,
Nov. 1st, 1883. Rev. Pitt served the church until 1886,
when he resigned and returned to Ms former people.
He AA'as succeeded by Rev. F. P. Robertson, of Grafton,
(W. Va.,) church, formerly of Virginia, in May, 1886,
who has still charge of the church, and Is doing a grand
and noble work. Rev. Robertson is a kind, courteous
and affable gentleman, and has the esteem and love of
his entire pastoral charge. He is an excellent preacher,
of an intelligent mind, and educated ability. The fol
lowing names compose the deacons of the church : B. F.
Fiery, Samuel Aler, Sr., Jos. AA^est, AA^ L. Pearl, J. B.
Kearfott, T. B. Grove.
F. S. Emmert is the Sunday School Superintendent,

852 The CJiurcJies.
which capacity he has filled for five years. The church
membership is 200, and the average Sunday School at
tendance 112.
TRINITY (EPISCOPAL) CHURCH, AND NORBORNE PARISH.
By an Act of Assembly, in the year 1769, this parish
.and county Avere taken from Frederick. The original
parish Included all the territory now embraced by the
counties of Jefferson and Berkeley, and contained within
the limits, probably three churches. About the year
1740, one was built at Mill Creek, or Bunker Hill, and
founded by Morgan Morgan — the first Episcopal Church
erected in the valley. A short time before the parish
was formed, a chapel was erected at Hedgesville. The
other was erected in Mecklenburg, (now Shepherdstown)
and built by Van Swearingen. The original parish con
tained these three churches. The first Episcopal Church
in Martinsburg was built about the close of the war, and
was erected by Philip Pendleton, Esq., a zealous church
man. It was- built at the entrance to Norborne Ceme
tery, which was laid out by Adam Stephen, and estab
lished by law in 1778. Upon the formation of Jefferson
County in 1801, which was taken from Berkeley, that
territory was cut off from Norborne Parish. This re
duced the latter, and it contained but the three churches.
The old church that stood in the Cemetery became un
safe for use, and In 1835, measures were taken to erect
another In the town. The lot was donated, and about
1838 or 1839, the present edifice, on AVest King street,
was commenced. There was no stated place of worship
in the town, for eight years or more before its comple
tion. The following memorandum is taken from the old
church record : "Trinity Church, Martinsburg, Avas con
secrated by Rt. Rev. AVilliam Meade, Bishop of Virginia,
on Thursday, August lOtli, 1843. Present and assisting,
the following of the clergy : Revs. Alexander Jones and
J. Chisholm, of Virginia, and Revs. James A. Buck and

TJie CJiurcJies. 353
Theodore B. Lyinan, of Maryland. Sentence of conse
cration read by the rector of the parish."
The church was badly damaged during the late war,
and in 1865 it was found necessary to renovate it before
it could be used for divine worship. The present vesti
bule and iron railing Avere placed in front of the church
in 1869. There are many breaks in the succession, re
garding the clergy of the parish, and it is supposed there
were no ministers in charge at those times. The parish
Avas organized in 1769, and no indentification of the
clergy as its Rector can be found until the year 1771.
Rev. Daniel Sturges was then licensed by the Bishop of
London as Rector for Norborne Parish. Rev. Mr. Vea-
sey succeeded him in 1786, and Avas followed by Rev.
Mr. AVIlson. Rev. Bernard Page was the Rector in 1795,
and who. it is said, in his ministerial work, was far be
yond the standard of the parish. He was succeeded by
Rev. Emanuel Wilmer, about the year 1806. Between
the lapse of 1811 and 1813, Rev. Mr. Price was made
rector. Here a temporary stop was put to all clerical
effort by the war of 1812, and in 1815, Rev. Benjamin
Allen took charge of the parish. While in Martinsburg
he contributed largely to the Christian^ s Magazine and
Layman^ s Magazine, church papers published inthe
valley. He was also an author of marked ability, having
published six volumes of poems, and running through
three editions of a history of the Reformation. He was
the first to propose a division of the diocese, and the fol
lowing committee was appointed to confer with the
Bishop and standing committee on this subject : Rev.
Enoch Love, Edward Colston and Robert Pgge. He had
spent a while afterward in England for the benefit of his
health, and on a homeward bound vessel died.
The first confirmation, of which there is any knowledge,
was held in the Martinsburg Church by Bishop Meade,
in 1830. The number confirmed composed a class of
nineteen. AVest Virginia became a separate diocese in

354 27^6 Churches.
1878, since avMcIi time the church has rapidly increased.
In 1848 Norborne Parish was divided and was made to
include Mt. Zion Church, Hedgesville, and Calvary
Church, Back Creek ; the other. Trinity Church, Mar
tinsburg. After the death of Rev. Allen, this parish was supplied
by Rev. Thomas Horrel, in 1816, who remained there
years, and from this date was succeeded by ministers as
follows : Revs. Enoch Love, Edward R. Lippett, 1823 ;
John T. Brooke, 1826 ; James H. Lyng, 1830 ; AA''Illiam
P. C. Johnson, 1832 ; Cyrus H. Jacobs, 1836 ; Charles C.
Taliaferro, 1837 ; James Chisholm, 1842 ; D. Francis
Sprigg, 1850 ; Richard T. Davis, 1855 ; AA^ D. Harrison,
1860 ; John W. Lea, 1875 ; and Robert Douglas Roller,
1879, who served the parish until April 1st, 1888, when
he resigned to accept a call at Charleston, AA^. A"a.
The present edifice has been handsomely renovated
and refurnished in an artistic manner. The church now
has a membership of 170, and an average Sunday School
attendance of 85. The Superintendent is AVm. B. Col
ston ; Senior and Junior AVardens, J. T. Young and B.
S. Lyeth ; Registrar, J. L. AV. Baker ; Treasurer, J. H.
Doll"; Vestrymen, J. T. Young, B. S. Lyeth, J. L. AV.
Baker, Geo. A. Chrisman, W. B. Colston, John M. How
ell and J. H. Doll. PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.
This church was organized in 1825, and is the daughter
of the venerable old church on Tuscarora, about two and
a half miles from town. The church was brganlzed in
April and seems to have been without a pastor for the
first year. But in the year 1826 or 1827, the Rev. John
Mathews, who had been serving the churches of Shep
herdstown and Charlestown jointly for twenty years,
gave up his charge with Shepherdstown and removed to
Martinsburg. He divided his time equally between these
two churches until he removed to the west in 1831. Mr.
Alex. Cooper was the first ruling Elder, Avho was also an

The CJiurcJies. 355
Elder in the old church in the county for some time be
fore the separation. Rev. Wm. C. Mathews became
acting pastor in April, 1831, and served the congregation
1835. During the years 1836 and 1837, the pulpit was
vacant, and in the spring of 1838, Rev. Peyton Harrison
was called to the pastorate of the church, and remained
in this city for six years. In April, 1838, the name of
Mr. Samuel Baker appears in the records as a Ruling
Elder. Rev. John Bogg became pastor in 1845, who,
probably remained only a foAv months, though possibly
longer, for there is a blank in the Records from April,
1845, to April 1847. At this latter date Rev. AVm. Love
took charge and served as pastor until 1849. During
this year he was succeeded by Rev. R. L. Berry, who
continued to serve the church for nerly ten years. In
August, 1858, Mr. Berry resigned, which was accepted
by the church with much regret. During his pastorate
the death of Mr. Alex. Cooper occurred, who for forty-
five years had held the office of Ruling Elder, and nearly
all that time had charge of the sessional records. On the
23rd of the following April, 1853, Mr. James N. Riddle
and Mr. John F. Harrison were ordained to the office of
Ruling Elders in the church. On the 19th of April, 1855,
Mr. Peyton R. Harrison, a son of Dr. Peyton Harrison,
the former pastor, was also chosen by the congregation
to the same office.
After the resignation of Mr. Berry, the congregation
called successively Rev. J. G. Hanner, D. D.; Rev. Lewis
C. Baker, of New Jersey, and Rev. M. B. Riddle, then
quite a young man. None of these ministers found the
way clear to accept the call. In April, 1859, Rev. A. C.
Hopkins, was tendered a call, which was accepted, and
on the 6th of Dec. following Mr. Hopkins was ordained
and installed pastor. At a meeting held on the 19th of
January, 1861, Mr. Geo. Tabb and Mr. John M. Har
mon were unanimously elected Ruling Elders. On the
2nd of May, 1866, Mr. G. Boyd Harlan, of Falling AVaters

356 TJie CJiurcJies.
Chuich, and Mr. AA'm. N. Riddle were chosen to the
office of Ruling Elders in this church. Rev. Mr. Hop
kins resigned this pastoral charge in Aug., 1865, and on
the 2nd of June, 1866, a call was accepted by Rev. Jas.
E. Hughes, Avho was afterwards installed by a commit
tee of AVinchester Presbytery. On the 23rd of Sept.,
1867, he died, and since the birth of this congregation,
in 1825, this was the first time God had called them to
bury their pastor.
In the following spring, 1868, Rev. Dr. Riddle, of
Lebanon, Pa. , began his ministry in Martinsburg, in this
church, and continued until April, 1877, when he resign
ed on account of infirmity of health. On the 14th of
July, 1879, the congregation for the thirteenth time in
its history was called upon to select another shepherd.
The lot fell upon the present pastor, Rev. P. M. AVoods,
who has for the past nine years been endeavoring to re
alize this responsible trust. AA^ithin these nine years
there has been an encouraging increase in this church,
along with her sister churches, that gives a pleasant
prophecy of the future of their active, busy town. The
congregation of the church have built a most delightful
and commodious manse at a cost of nearly $6,000. The
church membership now numbers over 200, with a Sun
day School attendance averaging 75. Mr. C. W. AVisner
is the present Sunday School Superintendent, with Hugh
A. White, as assistant. The Elders are Jacob Miller,
Blackburn Hughes and J. L. E. Combs.
CATHOLIC CHURCH.
The first services held by this denomination were in the
house of John Timmons, now located on Race Street.
Mass was said in this house for a period of nearly nine
teen years, from about the year 1810 to 1880. The first
church Avas then built where St. Joseph's Cemetery is
now located, by Rev. J. B. Gildea, Avith a membership
consisting of about fifty families. The cost of the build
ing amounted to nearly $4,000 and the ground was given

TJie CJiurcJies. 357
by Richard McSherry. The Sisters of Charity were es
tablished here by Father AA^helan years ago, but after
wards left, as the congregation Avas too small to sup^
port It.
The stone work of the present church was begun by
Father Plunkett, but was suspended for the want of
means. Rev. Andrew Talty, his assistant, finished the
church to the extent of the funds, and placed a pair of
wooden steps in front. Rev. J. J. Kain afterwards re
placed them Avith stone, and also finished the basement.
During the war, the Jessie Scouts used it for a stable
in which they kept about 70 horses, and used the Sacris
ty rooms as prisons. Capt. H. Kyd Douglas was con
fined here for a period of six months. The wooden steps
were very frail and inconvenient, and were only used by
the soldiers tAvice. It is said the erection was commen
ced about 1845, the subscription paper dating Feb., 17th
1850, in Avhich year the corner stone was laid. At a cost
of about $40,000, the church was dedicated by Bishop
McGill, Sept. 30th, 1860.
The names of those in charge, from its earliest exis
tence to the present date, are as follows : Rev. Father
Cahill, ReA^. Roadman, Rev. J. B. Gildea, Rev. AA'^helan,
Rev. O'Brien, Rev. J. A. Plunkett. At different times
a number of distinguished churchmen had charge,
among whom were Bishops Whelan, of Wheeling ; Beck
er, of AVilmlngton, Del. ; and Kain, of Wheeling, each
remaining several years. During the early period, at
intervals, priests from Hagerstown and Frederick, Mary
land, visited the mission. History records no names of
the pioneers of Catholicity in this county, and there is
no doubt that the communion members of the church of
Rome came to this section in the decline of the last
century. The present edifice, situated on South Queen Street, is
a strong and substantial building, with a massive stone
front. The interior is handsomely frescoed and furnish-

858 The CJiurcJies.
ed, and contains a beautiful marble altar. In 1883, the
denomination purchased the Judge Hall property at a
cost of $5,000, and made improvements to the amount of
$2,200. The parochial school was taught in the base
ment of the church for a long while, but upon the pur
chase of this property the Sisters of Charity, from Em-
mittsburg, took charge Sept. 1st, 1888. The school now
has an average attendance of over 200 children, and is
very successful. The present church membership num
bers over 1500, with a large Sunday School attached.
Rev. J. McKeefry is the present pastor, with Rev. Fred.
J. Lucke, a-s assistant. Rev. Lucke entered upon his
mission here March, 17th, 1887, and continued until April
1st, 1888. At the earnest request of Bishop Keane, Rec
tor of the Catholic Union of America, he was called upon
to take charge of the St. Augustine Cathedral, at Flori
da. He will succeed Rev. Dr. Pace, who takes the chair
in the Theological Union. Father Lucke was held in the
highest esteem by the people of all denominations.
GERMAN REFORMED CHURCH.
This is one of the oldest congregations in the valley,
and was founded by German emigrants, Avho migrated
principally from Pennsylvania. This society, in con
nection with the Lutherans, worshipped together in a log
building, about the year 1776. (See sketch of Lutheran
Church.) This church used jointly by the tAvo congre
gations for many years was found to be too small, and
in 1846 the German Reformed congregation, procured a
more suitable site on Burke Street, and erected an edi
fice, the present one, at a cost of about $5,000. The
services were formerly conducted in the German
language, but have uoav been supplanted by the English.
The old members of the church adhered to the use of
their mother tongue in conducting their services, and
thereby caused a number of their descendents to con
nect themselves with the English speaking congregations.
The first church bell introduced in this section of

The Churches. 359
country Avas purchased by this denomination in 1808.
The pastors as they succeeded each other areas follows :
Revs. George Adam Geting, Jonathan Rahauser, Lewis
Mayer, from 1808 to 1820 ; Samuel Helfersty, 1820 to 1824;
JacobBeecher, 1826 to 1831; RobertDouglas, 1834 to 1845 ;
Daniel F. Bragunier, 1845 to 1860 ; William D. Lafever,
1866 to 1869; Stephen K. Kremer, 1870 to 1874, and
John A. Hoflheins in 1875, who is now the present pastor.
The elders are H. Seibert, John Fitz, Chas. Matthaei,
James H. Myers. Deacons, Harry Cushwa, Lewis
Bentz, D. M. Kilmer, G. R. Shoafstall and AVm. W.
Cushwa. The present church membership now num
bers about 250, with D. J. S. Boak as Sunday School
Superintendent, and a scholarship of about 100, average
attendance. METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
The first Methodist preaching in this State Avest of the
Blue Ridge Mountain Avas commenced by Bishop Francis
Asbury. On the 2nd of June, 1782, he stopped in Mar
tinsburg on his way westward over the mountains, and
delivered the first sermon in the Market House. In 1789
thefirst circuit west of the Blue Ridge was formed with
Martinsburg as the centre, and which continued unbro
ken until the civil war opened in 1861. Shortly after a
number of societies were organized in Martinsburg and
throughout Berkeley and adjoining counties. The first
building occupied by this congregation is still standing,
located on John street, south of the jail. The congrega
tions of this society Avere assembled by bloAving a tin
horn, as they were bitterly opposed to ringing church
bells. The laAvs of the church Avere strongly anti-slavery,
and on account of which fact they met with much oppo
sition, then universal in the South. A division in the
church was caused by this subject, which occurred In
1846, and the society knoAvn as the M. E. Church South
was afterward organized.
Many were the obstacles and oppositions that encoun-

360 The ChurcJies.
tered this society ; but, notAvIthstanding, It grew and
fiourished. From the time it became thoroughly estab
lished until 1850 its membership numbered nearly a hun
dred. It became popular on account of making no dis
tinction in its admission and encouragement of members,
and was at that time termed the common people.
In 1850 the Martinsburg society became an independ- '
ent church, and being set off from others in the county,
it was known as Martinsburg Station. During this year
the Baltimore Conference appointed Rev. Henry Furlong
as pastor of the church, who completed the reorganiza
tion. He remained with the church nearly eleven years,
during which time the membership increased to over tAvo
hundred. In 1861 the civil war broke out and the society
was completely broken up, causing almost an entire sus
pension of religious services. In fact, such was the case
generally throughout the State. From the Spring of
1861 until 1863 the Methodists held no religious services
in the county excepting at irregular intervals, by some
itinerant Southern preacher at different places.
The church was again reorganized throughout the
county in the latter part of 1863 by Dr. John Lanahan,
Presiding Elder for the Virginia portion of the Baltimore
Conference. At this time Dr. John M. Green (since de
ceased) became pastor in charge of Martinsburg, since
which time Methodism has rapidly increased throughout
the county, and especially in Martinsburg. Since the
ruins of the church building from the effects of the war,
their property has advanced upwards of $50,000. During
1850 only two Methodist preachers were employed In the
county, which so continued until 1861.
The following is a list of the pastors as they succeeded
each other : Revs. H. Furlong, 1850 ; David Thomas,
1851-1852 ; G. AA^ Cooper, 1858-1854 ; J. H. Brown, 1855-
1856; J. Landstreet, 1857-1858; S. McMullen, 1859-1860 ;
C. A. Reid, 1861 ; J. M. Greene, 1862-1868 ; J. H. SAA'ope,
1864-1865 ; H. C. McDaniel, 1866-1867 ; E. D. Owen,

TJie CJiurcJies. 361
1868-1869 ; S. V Leech, 1870-1871 ; A. R. Reily, 1872
J. F. Ockerman, 1873-1874 ; J. AA^. Cornelius, 1875-1876
J. E. Amos, 1877-1878-1879 ; M. F. B. Rice, 1880-1881
G. V. Leech, 1882-1883 ; A. S. Hank, 1884-1885-1886
John EdAvards, present pastor, 1887-1888. The present
trustees of the church are Wm. H. Mathews, Henry
Crim, Luther Miller, Jacob Eversole, AA^m. AA^estrater,
Wm. McElroy and I. L. Bender. The missionary Socie
ty is composed of A. D. Darby, President ; F. A. Cham
bers, Vice-President ; C. David Darby, Secretary ; Miss
Lilly Mathews, Treasurer. The present church member
ship numbers 401, with a Sunday school attendance -of
830. Sunday School Superintendent, Lee M. Bender ;
Assistant Superintendent, Frank AVeaning.
METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, SOUTH.
This society was organized In December, 1866, by Revs.
David Shoat and John A. Kearn, with a membership
numbering fifteen. They worshipped in a small school
building on King street for nearly a year, and in the fall
of 1867 completed an edifice on German street, (now Ma
ple avenue,) at a cost of $3,500, where they worshipped
until January, 1886. The demand for a better house of
worship had long been felt by those of Southern Metho
dist persuasion, and the effort to procure one culminated
in the " Centenary or thank offering," lifted December
21st, 1884, for the purpose of improving or building a
new church. The amount realized was $2,000, AA'hich
gave such an impetus to the enterprise that those having
the matter in charge determined to build a new church
that would be an adornment to the town and a credit to
the congregation. The present site on West Martin
.street was purchased from Mr. Fred. Becker in April,
1885, and the work of laying the foundation was imme
diately commenced after the removal of several old build
ings. The corner-stone was laid Avith Masonic rites Sept.
19th, 1885, and addresses were delivered in the Presby-

362 The Churches.
terian Church by Grand-Master Shyrock, of Maryland,
and others. The Mayor and City Council attended in a
body, and the City Band furnished music suitable to the
occasion. In the meantime the old church was sold by
the trustees, after which the congregation worshipped
in the Court House and Feller's Hall, until the opening
of the lecture room in the new edifice, March 21st, 1886.
This was dedicated by Rev. John L. Clark, of Virginia,
the first station preacher this charge ever had, and who
was largely instrumental in organizing the society here.
On this occasion a collection amounting to $1,700 was
taken up.
The new edifice was completed and dedicated Sunday,
October 2nd, 1887, and services conducted morning and
night by Bishop Alpheus AV. AVilson, of Baltimore. Col
lections were lifted on both occasions amounting to
$2,100. The building committee was composed of Rev.
J. R. Andrew, pastor, C. M. Shaffer, N. T. Fisher, G.
AV. Buxton, H. Wllen, G. S. Rousch and J. H. Shaffer.
The first pastor in charge was Rev, John L. Clark, who
served from 1869 to 1871, and was succeeded as follows :
Thomas B. Sargent, 1871 ; John S. MaxAvell, 1872 ; Wes
ley Hammond, 1873 ; Louis C. Miller, 1874 to 1877 ; John
Poisal, D. D., 1877 ; Presley B. Smith, 1875 ; O. C. Beall,
1879 ; J. H. Davidson, 1880 ; John Landstreet, 1881 to
1884 ; J. R. Andrew, 1884 to 1888, with Rev. H. H. Ken
nedy as the present pastor. The church membership
now numbers 211, AvIth a Sabbath School attendance of
200. The Sunday School Superintendent Is Mr. R. P.
Barr, and the Stewards are G. S. Rousch, N. T. Fisher,
H. T. Hopper, John Young, Eugene Newton and Joseph
H. Shaffer. UNITED BRETHREN CHURCH.
The Church of the United Brethren in Christ was
founded by AVilliam Otterbein and Martin Boehm about
the middle of the eighteenth century. The former was
a distinguished theologian and minister in the German Re-

The CJiurcJies. 868
formed Church, and the latter a member of the Mennon-
ite Church. They had grown tired of the cold formal
ism and inactivity of the churches to which they be
longed, and began the work of promoting revivals and
insisting upon a spiritual membership. They were emi
nently successful in their labors. These two devoted
christian men were for the first time brought together
at a great union meeting which was being held in Isaac
Long's barn, at Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. Mr.
Boehm preached thefirst sermon, and one of great power.
At the close of his speech Mr. Otterbein arose and, em
bracing the eloquent speaker, he exclaimed : "We are
brethren." The multitude that witnessed it was deeply
and favorably impressed at this exhibition of christian
fellowship and good will. Here originated the name
"United Brethren." The words "In Christ" were af
terward added, to distinguish the church from the Mo
ravian United Brethren. In 1774, with Mr. Otterbein as
pastor, the first organization occurred in Baltimore, Md.,
about which time the first church was built, and is used
to this day by a German United Brethren congregation.
The first conference was held in 1789, and since has made
a steady and permanent growth. She has forty-eight
annual conferences in the United States and territories,
also one in Canada, one in Germany and one in West
Africa. They have established at Dayton, Ohio, a print
ing office worth nearly $250,000, which is clear of debt
and annually turns over to the church thousands of dol
lars. In 1858, with a few hundred members, the AVest
Virginia Conference was organized, and at the close of
the late war it was found the number had considerably
decreased. The membership in this State now numbers
over 7,500, AvIth three presiding elder districts and thirty-
six fields of labor.
In 1856, the society in Martinsburg Avas formed, and
in 1857, the present edifice was completed. It is located
in "Strlnesvllle," the Northern part of the city, and^Is

364 TJie CJiurches.
well furnished. During the war It was considerably
damaged, but since has been put in complete repair.
The present membership numbers nearly 150, with a
Sabbath School attendance of about 100. Rev. J. R.
Ridenour Is the present pastor, with Mr. Philip RImel
as Sunday School Superintendent, and Messrs. Joseph
Long and James Buchanan as Stewards, .lolin Anderson
General Steward.
FREE WILL BAPTIST CHURCH, (COLORED )
This church was organized shortly after the war by the
Home Mission Society, and was built under the super
vision of Miss A. S. Dudley, of Maine, who was then
engaged in school teaching and general missionary work
among the colored people. AVith the assistance of Revs.
N. C. Brackett and A. H. Morril, considerable aid was
given the church in its early struggle. The present
church Avas built directly after Its organization, at a cost
of $2,500, and a parsonage connected at a cost of $800.
Its location is on North Raleigh street, — an excellent
brick building, AvIth a seating capacity of 400. The
present pastor. Rev. A. F. Adams, is a refined and schol
arly gentleman, and a graduate of Storer College, Har
per's Ferry, AA^. Va. The membership of the church
number 110, and has an average Sabbath School attend
ance of 97. Mr. G. AV. Green is the Sabbath School
Superintendent. The church trustees are J. H. Veney,
Wm. Marshall, Minor Duval, Henry and J. F. Carter.
Deacons, J. R. A^eney, Stephen Elam, Thomas Ellis and
Brown Freeman.
METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, (COLORED.)
No records are to be found to show any exact date for
the establishment of this denomination in our county,
but like the other colored church, it was not founded
until after the late war. The first building was erected
on AA'est Martin street, (the site of the present edifice,)
in which public services Avere held. It has since been
torn completely doAvn, and a large, commodious brick

The CJiurcJies. 365
building erected in its stead. The church is very ably
supported, and with a present membership of about 125,
• is doing a grand work. The Sunday School, with Mr. J.
W. Corsey, as Superintendent, has an average attendance
of nearly 100 scholars. The present pastor Is Rev. F. F.
Wheeler, who succeeded Rev. J. H. Smith in 1887. Rev.
Mr. Wheeler is an earnest worker and possesses marked
ability for his ministerial duties. The Stewards are
Samuel Hopewell, James Willis, John Shaw, AVm. Ford,
Chas. Brooks, Z. Silvers, Henry McGIll and John Low-
man. Trustees, Samuel Hopewell, James Clayton, Frank
Corsey, James AVillis and John Shaw.

CHAPTER XV.
BERKELEY COUNTY IN 1810— TOPOGRAPHI
CAL DESCRIPTION OP BERKELEY COUNTY-
NATURAL CURIOSITIES — MINERALOGY
AND LITHOLOGY — INHABITANTS,
TOWNS, MANUFACTORIES, ETC.
UpHROUGH the courtesies of Mrs. M. W. Faulkner,
^ the author has been enabled to secure from the
memoranda of her husband, the late Hon. C J. Faulk
ner, a large amount of historical facts. The following
sketch of Berkeley County in 1810, was taken from an
old printed pamphlet, now in the possession of Mrs.
Faulkner. This chapter, when compared with the fol
lowing one, will give the reader a general idea of our
county 78 years ago, and also of the manner in which it
has improved. BERKELEY COUNTY,
Lies between the 39th degree and 18 minutes North lati
tude, and extends 20 miles in length and about 18J
in breadth, and is bound to the North, inclining to the
East, by the river Potomac, which divides the States of
Virginia and Maryland ; to the East, iQclInlng to the
South by said river, and Jefferson County ; to the South,
inclining to the West, by Frederick County ; to the
West, inclining to North, by the county of Hampshire,
and the river Potomac. Martinsburg is the capital and
the seat of justice of this county.
CONTENTS.
It contains 484 square miles, or 319,760 acres.
PRODUCTIONS.
The same as in Frederick County.

Inhabitants, Towns, &c. 367
POPULATION.
When the last census was taken in 1800, this county
and Jefferson were but one ; it then contained 15,000
white inhabitants and 3,600 slaves; suppose that i of
the white population has been taken to form the county
of Jefferson, 10,000 Avould still remain to Berkeley. It
is supposed that half the above number of blacks fell to
Jefferson County, although- the division of the whites
was not so equal. There is now in this county 2,100
tithables, or males above 16 years of age„ paying the
poor tax. '
THE MOUNTAINS IN THIS COUNTY ARE—
First — The North Mountain ; it is remarkable on ac
count of its raising immediately like a wall. It has a
summit beautifully undulated in all its length. It might
be computed to be about 500 feet perpendicular at its
greatest height. It is not cultivated. The East side
could be planted with vines. Mr. EdAvard Tabb, living
immediately under that side of the mountain, exhibited
an European vine which resisted the coldest win
ters, and without either pruning or cultivation, afforded
large quantities of lucious grapes every year.
Second — The third Hill and Sleepy Creek mountains
are nearly joining, and both run parallel to the North
Mountain ; they are not cultivated, except in the mid
dle of the two, where issues a stream of water, called
Meadow Branch, and where the plantation of a hunts
man is seen. The heighth of both mountains is about
700 feet from their base.
Third— The AA^arm Spring ridge, is broken in several
places ; it is about 300 feet high ; it divides Berkeley
County from Hampshire. These ridges succeed each
other in the above order, running Westerly from the
North Mountain. RIVERS.
The Potomac is the only river in this county ; It divides
this State from Maryland.

368 InJiabitants, Towns, &c.
CREEKS. '
The creeks are, Opequon, Mill, Middle, Tuscarora,
Back, Sleepy, and the AVarm Springs. The three first,
as well as part of the AVarm Spring Creek, are never-
failing streams, owing to the springs that feed them
being in limesione land, Avhich is deep and spongy, and
suffers the rain water to penetrate it. The water is there
fore kept there, as it were, for the supply of the springs,
while those creeks, Avhicli have the head springs, on slate
or rocky bolrtoms that do not permit the water to pen
etrate their, substance become dry in the hot seasons of
the year. This circumstance does not, I think, corrobo
rate that system already spoken of respecting the springs
receiving their supply from the sea by subterraneous
passages. QUALITY OF THE SOIL.
I have thought that in order to give an accurate idea of
the qualities of the soil of this county, I ought to divide
it into three parcels or valleys.
First — The first parcel is nearly all limestone, of an
excellent quality ; except on the ridge, where, I think
that a mountain existed, and where the Sulphur Springs
are to be found. This ridge continues its course through
this county, but it has been washed by the rains more
than in Frederick County and lies lower. The quality
of the soil is good, and by means of clover and plaster of
Paris, I think, will growfmore valuable yet.
Second — This parcel contains the valley of Back Creek,
and is watered by it. I avIII observe that there is a tract
of land marked on the map with the sign of a hill, on ac
count of being higher than the other part of the valley,
and extends from Mr. Gaunt' s to Mr. Robertson's mill,
on the Warm Spring road, and on a breadth of about two
miles, which Is of Ja good limestone land. The remain
der of it is slatejand Mountain land, except the bottom
on the creek, which is a loam. The whole is susceptible

InJiabitants, Towns, &c. 869
of great Improvement, and avIII become very valuable by
attention to agriculture.
Third— Is the A-alley of Sleepy Creek Avatered by the
said creek. Some part along the Warm Spring is lime
stone ; some bottoms on the creek are loam ; the rest is
slate and mountain land, which, however, improved hff
the plaster of Paris and clover, would afford, in my opin
ion, good crops of small grain.
LITHOLOGY.
As part of this county is limestone, marble will conse
quently be found in it, sooner or later. " I ha ve seen spars
of different kinds in the limestone land, near Martins
burg ; there are some in the form of a column, with sides,
and truncated, white and transparent. On Apple-pie
Ridge, there are masses under ground of these spars, of
different forms. The people on whose lands these stone
are seen, believing them to be gypsum, (plaster of Paris),
had them ground and spread on their lands ; indeed,
many bushels, they said, had been sold as such. I went
to those places and obtained specimens of those stones,
and made a trial on them, Avhich is commonly used for
detecting the true gypsum from the common stone : I
put them in contact with fire, and I found, after several
experiments, that the most Intense heat had not the least
immediate effect on them, iu causing them either to lose
their transparency or hardness, and consequently, I took
them to be rather a carbonate of lime (of the nature of
limestone) Instead of being the sulphate of it, (of the
nature of plaster,) and in order to make the people on
Avhose land these stones are found better acquainted with
the nature of the true plaster of Paris, I shall extract
part of a chapter of Chaptal's on chemistry. He ex
presses hinjself thus : The plaster loses its transparency
by calcination, at the same time that it becomes pulver
ulent, and acquires the property of again seizing the
water of which it had been deprived, and resuming its
hardness ; It does not give fire with the steel, nor effer-

370 InJiabitants, Towns, &c.
vesce Avith acids. He says farther, 100 parts of gypsum
contains 30 parts of sulphuric acid, 82 calcarius earth,
and 38 Avater ; It loses nearly 27 per cent, by calcination.
It is soluble in 500 times its weight of water, at the tem
perature of 60 degrees of Fahrenheit. When it is ex
posed to heat, its water of crystalizatlon is dissipated ; It
'becomes opaque, loses its consistence, and falls into pow
der. If it be moistened, it becomes hard again, but does
not resume its transparency ; a circumstance which ap-
.pears to prove that its firm state is a state of crystaliza-
ition ; if it be kept In fire of considerable intensity, in
«ontact Avith poAvder of charcoal, the acid is decomposed,
mid the residue is lime, &c."
Upon the principle above stated we learn that plaster
and lime are both calcareous earth, and we might draw
a conclusion from them, that if any virtue is attributed
to the former in promoting the groAvth of clover and
other plants, it is owing to the sulphuric acid that the
plaster contains, and that both a pyretous and limestone
ground is required for the formation of it.
I will add for information, also, that as the plaster,
when calcinated, looks nearly as white as any other cal
careous matter, and in order that one might be known
from the other, pour some drops of water on both. It
will cause an immediate efferverscence on the lime, while
the plaster avIII receive no effect from It. Besides, when
the plaster, after calcination, is pounded, pulverized and
sifted, it can be formed, with the addition of water, into
a paste which will grow solid by drying, while it will not
be so with any other calcareous substance.
"Near the mill of Mr. Stephens, on Tullis branch, I
found a kind of soft lime-stone, that the people also took
for plaster of Paris, which being easily reduced into
powder, either by pounding or grinding, or made into
lime by fire, may probably ansAver to improve lands.
"Another kind of lime-stone I found also, atMr. Samuel

InJiabitants, Towns, &c. 371
Hedges', in Sleepy Creek Valley, which would j)erhaps
answer the same purpose as the above described."
' ' I have seen at Mr. Sheerer' s mill, on the Potomac, flag
stones, that he raised from the bottom of that river, near
his house, which surpass in color, beauty and size, any
shistus (slate stone) I have ever seen. Those slabs can
be polished and sawed easier than marble, and Mr.
Sheerer has used them in its stead to embelish his new
house. When the navigation of this river shall be im
proved, no doubt that they will be boated down to the
cities below, and will constitute a branch of commerce.
Those stones Avould be of great service in the raising of
dams and locks on this river, for the improvement of
navigation, in the same manner as spoken of in the
article of, Rivers in Frederick County."
MINERALOGY.
On the banks of Opequon, near the house of Mr. John
Vanmetre, two or three miles from Martinsburg, is found
a kind of sulphate of iron, (copperas,) which immediately
turns leather black. It is found between the slates, but
not in abundance ; however, when a diligent search is
made much may be found.
Iron, copper, as well as silver ores, are found on Sleepy
Creek Mountain, but the last ore is not found in quanti
ties sufficient to be worthy of exploring. No search yet,
with a particular view to obtain these ores, has been
made by any chemist on those mountains. The waters
of Sleepy Creek contain the iron in solution to such a
degree that the stones on its bed are covered with the
oxide of it. NATURAL CURIOSITIES.
There is a natural reservoir bearing the name of Swan
Pond, in this county, the waters of which run off in a
stream for some distance and then sink all at once, and
no more is seen of them until near the mouth of Opequon
Creek, where, in a hollow or pit of about 100 feet deep
and 300 feet in circumference, you hear them pass under

372 Inhabitants, Toions, &c.
the rocks of the bottom of that pit, and going undoubt
edly to join Opequon Creek. MILLS.
There are in this county upAvards of 50 grist or mer
chant mills, as many saAv mills, several fulling mills, an
oil mill and one paper mill.
MANUFACTORIES.
A large and convenient stone-built merchant mill on
Tuscarora and joining Martinsburg has been bought lately
from Mrs. Hunter by Messrs. HIbbert and Gibbs for the
purpose of establishing a wool and cotton manufactory.
Mr. HIbbert is a fuller by trade ; he has already erected
all the apparatus for fulling, dressing and dying all sorts
of cloths on a pretty large scale. Mr. Gibbs is an ingen
ious mechanic; he has moved from his cotton manufac
tory at Hagerstown all his machinery for carding and
spinning both avooI and cotton, to place them in this
building. Mr Jonathan Wickersham,' a fuller, the proprietor of
a fulling mill and carding machine established on Mld-
dle_ Creek, near the precincts of BucklestoAvn, has added
lately to his factory a jenny of fifty spindles to spin
wool, and having at hand a number of capable weavers,
he intends to carry on a complete factory of cloth. I
hope these two infant manufactories may be encouraged
so as to become permanent establishments and add to
the stock of wealth of the country.
MINERAL WATERS.
There are several of the sulphur kind on Opequon, In
this county, but the most remarkable is the one occupied
by Mr. MInghini, about 8 miles from Martinsburg, this
house is well fitted for accommodation, and several
hundred persons resort there every season.
There is another, also, at two miles distance from Mar
tinsburg, on which the citizens of Martinsburg have be
stowed some trouble and expense to render it convenieni

InJiabitants, Towns, &c. 873
and useful to visitors. They haA'e put up a shower bath,
which is used by the neighbors and townsmen.
The most conspicuous one is at Bath Town, under the
AVarm Spring Ridge, from the foot of which and by dlf-
erent channels issues a torrent of water capable to
turn a mill. AVater cannot be more limpid and beauti
ful than this is. This place, though agreeably orna
mented and capable of contributing to the pleasures of
the gay and healthy, as well as convenient and salutary
to the sick and invalid, might be greatly improved and
embellished by taste and liberality if the Legislature of
Virginia Avas disposed to encourage any practicable
scheme to raise money for that purpose. Nature has
been lavish of her favors to this spot of country, for in
addition to those medicinal springs, she has showered
her bounties upon the whole neighborhood by spreading
over it a magnificent variety of the most finished and
grand scenery.
The soil around this place, as a mountainous country,
has the appearance of sterility, but by proper attention
to culture might be made productive and rich. .
I will not attempt to elucidate the properties of these
waters ; I will only say that the country in this valley
looks barren and is uncommonly dry, and as under the
surface of the earth there generally exists a hard rock,
which prevents the rain water from penetrating so as to
produce permanent springs, my curiosity was so much
awakened as to induce me to look for the source of this
spring, and after much pains, I was informed by the
neighbors and hunters living on the Ca- Capon Creek,
that the waters of that creek were sinking at about 10
miles from its mouth, and formed a vortex. This spot
lies to the South-west of the AVarm Springs ridge, and
of the Ca- Capon mountain, and at the distance of about
9 miles in a straight line from Bath Town. This seemed
to me the more probable, as these springs are never in
fluenced either in their temperature, or quantity, by the

374 Inhabitants, Towns, &c.
warm, or cold, or wet, or dry weather, and probably after
having sojourned and passed through the mazes of the
subterranean cavities under the Ca-Capon mountain, as
well as under the valley which lies between the Ca Capon
mountain and the Warm Springs ridge, the soil of which
is calcareous and having been in contact with the differ
ent pyrites composing their bed, receives by their decom
position, the degree of heat, that those waters contain,
as well as the gases with which they are impregnated,
and after a due filtration through the sandy rocks, of
which the basis of that AVarm Spring ridge is composed,
they arrive at this spot.
These waters, when boiled, have strong incrustations
on the sides of the vessel, which plainly evince that they
are highly mineralized, and consequently possessed of
the virtues for which they have been so much extolled,
in relieving or removing complaints. I took with me,
last fall, some of those sediments to Philadelphia, and
gave them to Dr. Barton, who, an eminent chemist, avIII
give a full analysis of their contents.
I have inserted this In order to counteract the opinion
of those, who, without taking any pains in the investiga
tion or analysis of these waters, have advanced, thatthey
contain no minerals in solution, neither in a state of oxide
nor gas, and consequently, are totally destitute of any
properties whatever, more than common water.
MARTINSBURG
Is the capital of the County of Berkeley ; It contains
about 200 houses, and nearly 1,200 inhabitants ; it is the
seat of justice, and has for that purpose a handsome
Court House and Jail of stone, and a Market House, well
supplied with the necessaries of life. The situation of
this town Is remarkably pleasant andhealthy, on account
of Its standing on an elevated spot, and for having the
Creek of Tuscarora watering its precincts, which could
be carried In pipes through the town for the convenience
and comfort of the inhabitants, if desired. The streets

Inhabitants, Towns, &c. 375
are wide, and partly planted with Lombardy poplars, and
have a very fine appearance. Eight taverns are kept in
this place ; one of them has the reputation of being one
of the best in the United States, and is well known by
those who resort to the Warm Springs. Here is kept a
coffee house, where, almost all the papers in the United
States are read ; 8 large stores, one printing office ; there
are also five public meeting houses for worship, one Eng
lish Episcopalian, a Catholic, a German Lutheran, a
Presbyterian, a Methodist and a Baptist ; three English
schools, several manufactories, and every description of
artificers and mechanics.
Latitude, North 89 degrees, 82 minutes. It is 22 miles
from Winchester, 20 from Hagerstown, 100 from Balti
more, 81 from the Federal City, 117 from Staunton, 171
from Philadelphia, 172 from Richmond, and 16 from
Charlestown. MIDDLETOWN, OR GERARDSTOWN,
Situated on a level soil, partly limestone, one mile and
a-half from Mill's Gap, under the North Mountain, to
the East side of it, and nearly at the head of Mill Creek.
It contains about 40 families; a physician and a Presby
terian clergyman reside here ; several large stores are
kept in this town, for the supply of the farmers around
it ; here are also a number of mechanics. There is in
this place a handsome brick church, built by the Presby
terians. This town is 10 miles from Martinsburg, and 15
and a-half from AVinchester.
DARKESVILLE, OR BUCKLESTOWN,
Lies 7i- miles from Martinsburg, on the road to AVin
chester ; 15 miles from that place, and on Middle Creek,
a never-failing stream, which crosses this place. There
are 30 dwelling houses, 4 taverns, 8 stores, 2 blacksmiths,
2 weavers, one tailor, one cabinet maker, one wagon
maker, one distillery of whiskey ; a Methodist meeting
house stands at the North end of this toAvn.

370 InJiabitants, Towns, &c.
BATH-TOWN, OR WARM SPRINGS,
Situated immediately under the East side of the AA'arm
Spring ridge, 6 miles from the Potomac, in a narrow A'al-
ley, watered by the stream which runs from the AA-^arm
Springs. Several years ago this town was handsome,
but the houses, as being built with wood, have decayed,
and on account of the celebrity of Its waters, was yearly
visited by above 1,000 of the beau monde. It had lost
its reputation on account of some diseases Avhich raged
during one season, occasioned by a pond Avhere the waters
were stagnating ; but, since the cause was removed, it
has regained its character. Last year, 1779, it Avas vis
ited by above 500 people, and no doubt will increase each
year. Here are five large, convenient and handsome
taverns, or boarding houses, kept for the accommodation
of visitors and invalids ; 26 families are living in this
place ; among the number various branches of mechanics.
Here are several stores and a manufactory of leather.
I must not omit to mention, for the information of the
people, Avho are to visit this watering place, that besides
the above springs, there Is a sulphur spring, 4 miles dis
tant from this place, near Sleepy Creek. It is but
slightly impregnated with sulphur, and no accommoda
tion near it, and a challbiate spring on this ridge, about
half a mile from this town. It Is 25 miles from Martins
burg, 35 from AVinchester, 34 from HagerstoAvn, 106 from
the Federal City, 108 from Baltimore, 185 from Rich
mond, and 196 from Philadelphia, JAMESBURG
Is situated In Back Creek Valley, and has only the
name of a town ; for it contains only a few scattering
houses, without regularity. It is about 13 miles from
Martinsburg. The larger portion of this chapter Avas taken- from old
pamphlets, from which no evidence can be found as to
the writer.

CHAPTER XVI.
PRESENT SITUATION OF THE TOAVN AND COUN
TY—JOURNALISM IN THE COUNTY— COUN
TY COURT AND OFFICIALS— MARTINS
BURG. SCHOOLS— HOME ORGANIZA
TIONS, LODGES, ETC.— MANUF.\C-
TURING ADVANTAGES, RAIL
ROAD FACILITIES AND
BUSINESS STANDING.
^^^ARTINSBURG is, geographically, admirably slt-
p^^ uated as the county seat of Berkeley County, Avhicli
ranks third in size and amongst the first In number of
acres of improved land and value of farm prod^icts in the
State. Topographically the city lies nestled near the
foot of the Little North Mountain, which ever sends
fresh, sweet air and clear, pure Avatf^r to invigorate and
strengthen our people. This same mountain stands as a
bulwark to the west and north against the rough blasts
of winter, and protects the valley from the fury of de
structive storms.
The town of Martinsburg Is contained within the fol
lowing boundaries, to wit : Beginning on the middle of
the county bridge crossing the Baltimore and Ohio Rail
road, south of Green Hill Cemetery and corner to Mar
tinsburg, Arden and Opequon districts ; thence Avith the
Ime of Opequon north lU degrees east, 66 poles to a
stake at the angle of the fence and in an original line
between the land of Ezra Herring and the lot of C. Henry;
thence north Bi degrees east, passing through the lands
of E. Herring, A. Quinzel, P. Strine' s second addition,
and the south-east corner of A. Roth's lot, 253 poles to a
stake in the field ; thence north 60 degrees west, passing

378 Situation of Town and County.
along the line between the additions of James A. Boyd,
John Strine and Hockinberry 62 poles to a stake in a
stone fence on the west side of the M. & P. turnpike ;
thence passing through the lands of David Hess, H. S.
Hannis & Co., south 88 J degrees west, 162 poles to a stake
in the low grojinds, on the east side, and about 3 poles
from the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and on the land
of John AV. Stewart, and corner of Opequon, Hedgesville
and Martinsburg districts ; thence with the line of
Hedgesville in part, and finally with Arden district,
south 361 degrees west, 245 three tenths poles to a stake
in the grade at the west end of King street ; thence south
90 degrees east, 176 poles to a stake about two rods south
west of a stone house on the lands of Hon. C. J. Faulk
ner ; thence south 71i degrees east, 84 poles to a stake at
the south end of Queen street ; thence north 92 degrees
east, 224 poles to the beginning, it being the present lim
its of the toAvn.
The place is just 100 miles from Baltimore, 80 miles
from Washington, 22 AVinchester, 19 from Harper's
Ferry, 70 from Cumberland, on the 1st division of the
Baltimore and Ohio Railroad, and is the southern termi
nus of the Cumberland Valley Railroad. For business
and trade It is the centre of a large territory of country.
The machine shops of the B. & O. are located in the city,
and give employment to several hundred hands. The
Tuscarora Creek i^asses directly through, which fur
nishes considerable poAver for manufacturing purposes.
The Hannis distillery, one of the largest branches in the
country, and the Tuscarora Agricultural AVorks, OAvned
by John Fitz, are located on this stream, and also em
ploys a large number of hands. Pay is good, and
monthly thousands of dollars are expended for labor.
The surface of the Avesteru part of the county Is mouu-
taiuons, but is being Avell cleared and cultivated. The
most valuable forests abound, and excellent qualities of
coal, iron ore, limestone, etc., are to be found.

Situation of Town and County.

379

The county is dividedinto seven districts or townships,
with assessable buildings and real estate as follows :

Districts.

Value of
Buildings.

Value of
Land and
Buildings.

County Levy.

Martinsburg 
Hedgesville 
Falling Waters .
Gerardstown 
Arden 

$ 871,142.00195,782.00162,252.00117,845.00 145,967.00 92,477.00
137,817.00
$1,723,28-2.00

$1,172,727.00 649,523.00606,577.00
426,477.76 612,240.80
418,011.97597,174.14
$4,482,731.61

$ 5,277.84
2,922.682,135.292,023.75
2,814.67

Mill Creek 
Oneouon 

1,940.97
2,700.97

$19,815.67

The present population of the entire county, as near as
can be estimated from the last two censuses, is 19,860. The
city district will number nearly 8,000.
There are a number of towns and villages within the
districts supplied with well regulated schools, churches,
Post Offices, etc., and AvMch contain a number of the
usual business places, thereby making a direct communi
cation and the mail facilities very convenient. The places
In direct communication with Martinsburg, the county
seat, are as follows : Bedlngton, Hedgesville, Falling
AVaters, Vanclevesville, Glengary, Darkesville, Bunker
Hill, Gerardstown, Shanghai, Jones' Spring, Little George
town, Soho, TomahaAvk, Ganotownand North Mountain.
The roads are in a fine condition and well kept up.
The soils throughout the county are loams and clay,
and in the west are thinner and less productive ; but in
the east there is a large amount of highly productive and
improved calcareous lands. The depth of the soil varies
from two to four inches on the hills and 12 inches or more
on the levels. The grains specially adapted to the lands
are wheat, corn, oats and barley. The principal Indus
tries are stock farming and grain raising. Principal ex
ports are wheat, corn and stock.
The public buildings and private residences avIH stand

380 Situation of Town and County.
a favorable comparison with any town of proportionate
size, and aa'111 far surpass many of the larger cities. The
older buildings are fast disappearing, and in a few years
our tOAvn avIII be composed entirely of the latest modern
structures. It may be of interest to mention here some of the late
improvements to our city. The old Car^Denter lot and
building on AVest King street, Avhich had probably stood
for centuries, was jiurchased by Messrs. Dr. J. B. Snod
grass and B. F. Fiery, and two fine large and commodi
ous dwellings erected In its stead. Messrs. Dr. J. AA''
McSherry, John Fitz, E. Boyd Faulkner, C. AV. Doll
Senator C. J. Faulkner, Emmert & Fiery, John Dunn
James H. AValker, E. E. Herring, C. P. Herring, D. AA''
Shaffer, E. C. AVIlliams, Jr., J. AA^. Bishop and a num
ber of others have made big im.provements. Two large
and handsome hotels are well supported in the town ;
the St. Clair, under the management of Geo. AV. Ramer,
and the Continental, under the management of AA^m. Rut-
ledge. Both are run and furnished in the best of style,
with rates from $2.00 per day upwards.
Mr. John Fellers has lately built a large toAA'u hall
called the "Academy of Music," which Is generally well
patronized. There Is also a City Hall, erected by the
corporation for its own use. The toAvn is well graded
and the streets kept In an excellent condition.
Tavo of the largest and finest banks in the State are
supported in this city, viz.: The People's National Bank
and the National Bank. Both are well managed, and
for promptness and dispatch of business cannot be sur
passed. The corporation officers are C. O. Lambert, Mayor;
Councilmen, First AA'ard, Dr. J. AA\ McSherry and M.
AV. Martin; Second AA^ard, A. Staubley and F. C. AVIl
liams ; Third AVard, AV. H. Kaufman and Geo. AA^. De-
Grange ; Fourth AA^ard, G. AA^ellinger and M. A". Green ;
Fifth AA^ard, Arthur Stephens and J. A. Bowers ; Clerk,

Situation of Town and County. 381
C. A. Young ; Sergeant, Henry AVilen ; Policemen, C.
R. O'Neal, Thos. F. Ahern and John AV. Poisal ; Attor
ney, J. Nelson AVisner ; Engineer AVater AVorks, Jacob
M. Shaffer. TOWNS AND VILLAGES IN BERKELEY COUNTY.
Gerardstown. — The town of Middletown was estab
lished about the year 1787, and soon afterward Its name
was changed to Gerardstown in honor of Its founder. Rev.
David Gerard, who laid it off into one hundred town lots.
AVilliam Henshaw, James Haw, John Gray, Gilbert Mc-
Kown and Robert Allen were appointed trustees. The
town Is located eleven miles southwest of Martinsburg,
and one mile east of North Mountain, on Mill Creek.
The present population numbers nearly 300, Avith one
free and one high school. There are four churches in the
town, owned and occupied by the Presbyterians, Luther
ans, Methodisi Episcopal and the Methodist Eplscojjal,
South. The town contains a number of stores, a large
tannery and other Important industries. Two newspa
pers are published here — the Times and the West Vir
ginia Good Templar, by J. B. Morgan.
Shanghai. — This village is located one mile Avest of
Back Creek, and contains several stores, blacksmith shops,
etc. A large factory is owned and run here by a joint
stock company called the Shanghai Manufacturing Asso
ciation,- for the purpose of manufacturing lumber and
grinding sumac, tan bark, etc. The Presbyterian Church
and one free school are also located In the toAvn.
Ganotown. — This place Is situated on Back Creek, three
miles south of Shanghai. The Methodist Episcopal
Church was built here in 1871, and has a large congrega
tion. This place was originally called Jamestown, the
first settlement in the district being made on the site of
the present village. Several stores and various other in
dustries are supported.
Jones' Spring. — Located near the north line of the
district, at the foot of the ridge, about one mile west of

382 Situation of Toion and County.
Back Creek. It contains several blacksmith shops, stores,
etc. In 1872 the church edifice of the Episcopal society
was purchased by the Calvary Church, United Brethren,
and is used by this denomination at the present day.
Darkesville. — This village was laid out in October,
1791, and is situated at the junction of Middle Creek, on
the Martinsburg and Winchester turnpike. It was
named in honor of General Darke, who was then a resi
dent. The place was formerly known as Bucklestown,
named after General Buckles, who resided there. It con
tains a number of stores, blacksmith shops, etc.
Bunker ZT^Z^.— Situated at the junction of Mill Creek
and on the Martinsburg and Winchester turnpike. It
contains tAVO churches, occupied by the Methodist and
Episcopal denominations. During the late war between
the States, this locality became a historic spot on account
of the many Important events that occurred.
Hedgesville. — This town is located seven miles North
of Martinsburg, one mile West of the B. &. O. R. R.,
and is situated In what is now known as Skinner's Gap,
in North Mountain. It was laid out in 1880 by Hezekiah
Hedges, and named after Ms family who long resided
there. One of the first Episcopal Churches erected in
the valley, known as "Hedges' Chapel," was located
here. It has been authentically stated, that while on
his surveying expeditions in this locality, several years
prior to the opening of the Revolutionary AVar, the illus
trious George AVashington worshipped here. The town
is Avell laid off and consists of fine dwellings, churches,
schools, stores, etc.
Bedlngton. — This village is located on the C. A^. R. R.,
about four miles North of Martinsburg, and is noted as
a resort during the summer months. Near by is a large
grove, containing the most valuable mineral waters,
among which are the noted Sulphur Springs. The town
is composed of several stores, schools, churches, etc.
Falling Waters.— Locatedi about seven miles North of

situation of Town and County. 383
Martinsburg, on the C. V. R. R., and near the Potomac
River. This place Avas the scene of many important in
cidents during the late war. One of the oldest churches
in the county was erected here by the Presbyterian de
nomination, which is standing and occupied at the pres
ent day. Within its limits are to be found several large
flouring mills, stores, churches, schools, etc.
(rZeTi^'ar?/.— Situated between the North Mountain and
dividing line, about sixteen miles Southwest of Martins
burg. It is composed of schools, churches, stores, etc.
Little Georgetown. — This place is noted as a great fish
ing resort, and is located on the Potomac River, above
Dam No. 5, and about nine miles North of Martinsburg.
Schools, churches, stores, etc., are to be found AvIthin its
limits. ,
Soho. — Situated in the extreme North-Avest end of the
county, about sixteen miles from Martinsburg. It is
composed of well-regulated churches and schools, and
contains stores, etc.
Tomahawk. — Situated six miles South of Hedgesville,
and contains stores, churches, schools, etc.
North Mountain. — Located on the B. &; O. R. R.,
about six miles North-west of Martinsburg, and contains
store, churches, schools, etc. This place is a^lso a ship
ping point for Tomahawk and Hedgesville.
There are a number of smaller villages scattered through
out the districts ; but my object has been to locate those
in direct communication with Martinsburg, the county
seat, and of greater importance. All are rapidly in
creasing in size and population, and are inhabited by an
industrious and energetic people.
JOURNALISM IN THE COUNTY.
Martinsburg Gazette.
The first newspaper published in Berkeley County was
the Martinsburg Gazette, which v/as established in May,
1799, by Nathaniel Willis, father of the renowned poet,
Nathaniel Parker AA^illis. Long before the advent of

384 Situation of Tov:n and County.
the telegraph, telephone, railroad and steamship, this
paper commenced its publication, and considering this
fact, it Is astonishing to observe how the columns of the
early files are crowded with interesting news. As an
evidence of enterprise on the part of the proprietors, it
contains the details of many important events that oc
curred throughout the country but a short time previ
ously. One feature of special importance is the war of
1812, and the stirring events happening on the western
border, — the historic achievements on the banks of the
historic Maumee, in North-Avestern Ohio, by General
Harrison and Anthony AVayne. The publication of these
articles were made within twenty days after their occur
rence. In January, 1811, John Alburtis became editor
and jproprletor, and continued its publication until Octo
ber 25, 1822, when he was succeeded by AVashington
Evans. In December, 1833, Mr. Alburtis commenced
the publication of the Journal, at Shepherdstown.
Martinsburg Independent.
At the close of the war of 1861, the first paper pub
lished in Martinsburg, was the Berkeley Union, an ad
vocate of Republicanism, with Mr. J. Nelson AA'isner as
its editor until April, 1873. In 1866, the Neto Era, a
Democratic paper Avas started, and' closed Its career with
Messrs. Shaffer & Logan as editors, in April, 1873. From
the consolidation of these tAvo papers groAv the Martins
burg Independent, April 1st, 1878. Until April, 1876, it
Avas published daily and weekly, and since that date it
has been published weekly. From the time of its estab
lishment until April, 1876, it was controlled by the In
dependent Printing Company, when it passed into the
hands of AVisner & Logan. This firm continued the
publication until March, ,1835, when Mr. Logan, on ac
count of illness, was compelled to Avithdraw from the
business, and his entire interest was purchased by Mr.
AVisner. Its name and motto indicates its independence on all

situation of Town and County. 385
subjects, and its aim to benefit the public welfare. It is
useless to comment on its past record, as the fact of its
being the oldest established paper in the county and of
nearly twenty-five years duration, will speak for itself.
Its forty- eight columns are always full to the brim with.
interesting and important news, live editorials, and wide
awake advertisers. The office and various department^-.
are complete in every detail, and skilled workmen exe
cute every branch of the business. The Independent
has a very large circulation and controls a vast influence^
It is of good clear print, and shows every evidence of
marked ability on the part of its present editor and pro
prietor, Mr. J. Nelson AVisner. Mr. U. S. Grant PItzer is
at present acting in the capacity of assistant editor, and
Mr. H. C. Mathews, as foreman, with Edward AVild, C.
C. Pitzer and AValter M. Aler as compositors.
As an act of appreciation on the part of the author of
this work, he takes this opportunity and pleasure in
stating that on this paper he acquired the greater portion
of Ms learning, and served his apprenticeship under the
instructions of Mr. H. C. Mathews, a veteran typo of
some forty years experience. He was taken from the
associations of the average wild boy at an early age, and
under Mr. Wisner's training was given every advantage
of the art of printing and journalism in general, besides
access to libraries of books. Through the care and in
terest manifested on the part of this gentleman, a deep
and lasting impression has been made, which shall ever
retain a sacred place to his memory.
Martinsburg Statesman.
This paper is amongst the oldest established in the
county, and has been from its infancy a staunch advocate
of Democratic principles — in fact the only Democratic
paper in the county. It has always been conducted under
strict management and party principles, and has been a
paper used to the interest of the public of both town and
county.

386 Situation of Town and County.
In public affairs it is always ready to take a stand, andr
has been the means of accomplishing considerable enter
prise on the part of the citizens.
This paper originated from the Valley Star, Avhich Avas
established by James W. Robinson, in the year  .
It was purchased in 1869 by D. S. Elchelberger, and the
name changed to the Martinsburg Statesrnan, under
-which name it has continued to the present day.
During Mr. Elchelberger' s control, the paper was well
published, and contained an excellent and large run of
advertisements, which it still holds at the present day.
Through its columns can be found numerous items, arous
ing the citizens of the county to a state of enterprise,
and industry. The heading of the paper contained a
cut of the present Court House, before the late improve
ments were made.
In 1883, the plant was purchased by Capt. AA". B.
Colston, who is the present editor and publisher. Since
taking charge of the paper, Capt. Colston has improved it
considerably, both in print, size and make-up. He has
equipped the office with new material, and allowed the
cylinder press to take the place of the hand press. The
Statesman is ably edited, and deserves patronage of
the public in general. Job printing of every description
is also executed in the most workmanlike manner.
The Statesman has the proud distinction of having
been the first newspaper, as far as the writer knows, to
suggest the name of Grover Cleveland for the Presiden
cy, after his phenominal run for Governor of New York
in 1882. To form an idea of the Statesman' s Avorth and
value to the community, it is only necessary to glance
over the file papers of the past, and then compare the
improvement of both town and county of the present day.
Mr. John S. Robinson, Is at present acting In the capa
city of local editor and foreman, Avith Thos. AA". Leigh,
John V. Sloan and Harry H. Sharffs as compositors.

Situation of Toion and County. 387
Martinsburg Herald.
In the year 1881, this valuable paper, commenced
publication under the control of Messrs. A. S. Goulden
and John T. Riley. This end of the state was for a long
time without a Republican paper, and the party was
more or less dependent in politics. The Herald was
continued as a conservative Republican paper, under the
above management, until 1885. During this year Mr.
Riley purchased the entire interest of Mr. Goulden, and
associated with himself Mr. Geo. F. Evans, one the lead
ing Republicans in this end of the State. From that
time the -ETeraZ^ has gained ground, irrespective of poli
tics, and by prudent, conservative management, has re
ceived the support of the best people of the county and
State. It has several times been enlarged in size, during
its publication, and is a neat and clear print. The pres
ent proprietors, Messrs. Riley & Evans, have speared
neither pains nor money, to make the Herald a newsy
and interesting sheet, and under the editorial control of
Mr. Riley, it commands considerable influence. Their
office, in all its branches, is complete In every detail with
material, and they execute job printing in the most
artistic manner.
These gentlemen deserve much credit, and the patron
age of every Berkeley citizen, for the manner in Avhich
they have labored for the interest of both town and
county. The paper contains reliable advertisers, and
news of interest to all. Like all the county papers, its
worth and value can be obtained by judging from its
files of the past, the manner in which it has aroused the
public industry. The compositors engaged on this paper
are George W. Ryneal, AV. C. Riddleberger, C. K. Cham
bers, and A. M. Staubly. Pioneer Press.
Under the management of J. R. Clifford, (colored,) this
paper was established in 1883, with a circulation of 100.
The Press is a neat, 4-page paper, and is published

388 Situation of Town and County.
monthly, but will shortly merge into a Aveekly
journal. From the date of its existence Mr. Clifford has
labored hard to make it a newsy and interesting sheet.
It is the only journal in the State devoted to the colored
race, and now has a large and excellent run of reliable
advertisers, AvIth a circulation upwards of 1,000. His
energies have been croAvned with a marked success, both
as an editor and manager. The paper was printed at the
Independent office until the spring of 1888, when he pur
chased the entire outfit of the Hardy Express, Moore
field, AV. Va. , and erected a building near his residence
on West Martin Street, Avhere he now publishes his
paper. Politically, the Press is Republican, and com
mands considerable influence among both races.
Central Methodist.
In 1887 this paper Avas founded by the Typographical
Association, of the colored M. E. Church Corference. It
is devoted entirely to the local interests of the District
Conference, and has a circulation of nearly 500 ; which
is rapidly increasing. The paper is published at the
Independent office, under the management of Rev. F. F.
Wheeler, pastor in charge at this place. Its editors are
John A. Holmes, T. A. White and F. F. AVheeler.
Gerardstown Times.
The Times was established in the year 1870, and has
been continued to the present day, by J. B. Morgan,
proprietor and editor. It Is a neatly printed four col
umn quarto, and Is Avell managed and edited. Its poli
tics are neutral, and is devoted principally to home news.
This paper is published every Saturday, with an excel
lent list of subscribers. West Virginia Good Templar.
This paper Is the official organ of the I. O. G. T., and
circulates through all parts of the State. It is a four
colunm quarto, devoted strictly to the order, and is
published every other week by J. B. Morgan, editor and
proprietor.

Situation of Town and County. 389
COUNTY COURT OFFICIALS.
As has been stated In a former chapter the first Court
'was held at the house of Edward Beeson, situated on
the land now owned by Mr. A. J. Thomas. The first
Court house was built where the present building now
stands. From the old records aa-o obtained the following
list of officers as they succeeded each other from its
earliest existence :
Judges of Circuit Court .-—Robert White, Wm. Bro-
kenbrough, .John Scott, Richard E. Parker, Isaac R.
Douglass, John W. Kennedy, L. P. AV. Balch,
Ephriam B. Hall, Joseph Chapman, E. B. Hall, Jno.
Blair Hoge, Chas. J. Faulkner, Jr., and Frank Beckwith
the present Judge.
Attorneys for the CommonwealtJi : — Alexander AVhite,
Elisha Boyd, David H. Conrad, Edmund P. Hunter, Jno.
E. Norris, George W. Murphy, Joseph T. Hoke, J. Nel
son Wisner, H. H. Blackburn, Edmund Shaw, Reuben
M. Price, Luther M. Shaffer, AV. H. H. Flick, Perry A.
Rohrbaugh, AVm. S. Henshaw, Alex. S. Hughes and Geo.
W. Feldt, present Attorney.
OlerJis of Circuit Court : — Obed AVaite, John Strother,
Israel Robinson, John Dunn, Joseph Burns, John Canby,
E. S. Troxell, three successive terms, and S. H. Martin,
who is now ably filling the duties of a second term.
Clerks of County Court : — AVilliam Drew, Moses Hun
ter, John Strother, Harrison Waite, Norman Miller,
Jacob Van Doren, ^-E. G. Alburtis, two terms, and
James M- Robinson, Leaman Gerard and Bernard Doll,
as Recorders, — and the present Clerk, C. AV. Doll, who
is now serving his third term.
PRESENT OFFICIALS.
Members of the Legislature: — George M. BoAvers and
George H. Ropp.
Judge of the Circuit Court — Thirteenth Judicial Dis
trict, Frank Beckwith. Clerk of the Circuit Court, S.
H. Martin. CommouAvealth's Attorney, George AV.

390 Situation of Town and County.
Feidt. Sheriff, Robert Lamon. Deputy Sheriffs, W. T.
Noll, Charles R. Hollis and George L. Sincindiver. Dep
uty Sheriff and Jailor, John Dumf ord.
Commencement of Terms of Circuit Court — Second
Tuesday in January, April and October.
County Court of Berkeley— Jacob W. Seibert, Presi
dent ; B. Kitchen and AVm. Kilmer, Commissioners.
Clerk of Court, C. AV. Doll.
Commencement of Terms of County Court — First Mon
day in March, June, September and December.
Commissioners in Chancery — John T. Picking and C.
W. Doll.
Surveyor of Lands — Geo. AV. Vanmeter. Deputy Sur
veyor of Lands, James W. Robinson.
Assessor First District — David Dodd. Second Dis
trict — Charles H. Miller. Commissioner of School Lands,
(vacant). General Receiver, Henry J. Seibert. Coro
ner, Frank D. Staley. Sealer of AVeights and Measures,
Geo. AV. Swartz.
Resident Attorneys — E. Boyd Faulkner & M. T. In
gles, AV. H. H. Flick & D. C. AVestenhaver, Chas. J.
Faulkner & Stuart W. AValker, J. Nelson Wisner. Geo.
W. Feidt, Blackburn Hughes & Hugh A. AVhite, A. C.
Nadenbousch and U. S. Grant Pitzer.
Justices of the Peace— Martinsburg, AVm. McKee and
Chas. P. Matthaei ; Mill Creek, Chas. Stucky, (va
cant ;) Gerardstown, A. J. Bowers ; Arden, James
M. Billmyer ; Opequon, G. AV. M. Tabler and G. AA^ D.
Folk ; Hedgesville, R. R. Coffenberger ; Falling AA""aters,
S. O. Cunningham and H. Cox.
Constables— Martinsburg, J. D. Turner and C. R.
O'Neal; MillCreek, AA^m. Lemon; GerardstoAvn, (vacant);
Arden, T. A. Potts; Opequon, A. H. A. Gardner;
Hedgesville, John L. Emerson; Falling AA''aters, Jacob
V. Carney.
Overseers of Poor — Martinsburg, Henry AA^ilen ; Mill
Creek, M. L. Payne, Gerardstown, G. AV. McKown ;

Situation of Toion and County. 891
Arden, H. H. Miller ; Opequon, AV. H. Myers ; Hedges
ville, George T. Kreglow ; Falling AVaters ; A. R. Por
terfield. County Superintendent of Free Schools— D. H. Dodd.
Local Board of Health— Dr. J. W. McSherry, M. S.
Grantham and E. L. Hoffman.
MARTINSBURG SCHOOLS.
The public schools of the city were first organized in
1865, but were not in full operation as such until 1866,
when a part of the old " Kruzen property," located near
the centre of the city, was purchased at a cost of $7,500,
and started as a grammar school. Dr. Irwin, AV. H.
Matthews and Geo. R. Wisong were the first commis
sioners. About 500 pupils were accommodatedj taught
by a corps of eight teachers. Four grades were taught
as a preparatory to the grammar department, which oc
cupied the second story, containing a large school room
and two recitation rooms. The grammar department
occupied the lower ''story, which contained two school
rooms and a recitation room. As the population increas
ed new houses Avere erected, as follows : one in the Sec
ond AVard at a cost of $6,900 ; one in the Fourth AVard
at a cost of $5,200 ; one in the Fifth Ward, cost $4,800 ;
and also a property for a High School at a cost of $7,500.
Three of the ward buildings are composed of brick and
one of stone ; also, a neat brick building for the colored
school. The colored schools Avere simultaneously organ
ized Avith the other schools, and are governed by the
same board. The Legislature passed an Act in 1870,
requiring the German language to be taught in the free
schools of the city, and that a capable teacher of both
languages be employed. In 1875 an Act Avas passed by
the Legislature, making Martinsburg an independent
district. In 1884 the High School building was erected, on a
beautiful location, on South Queen street. All the
build ings are well furnished, AvIth heating apparatus, mod-

392 Situation of Toion and County.
ern conveniences, etc. The city educates nearly all its
own teachers, and always gives the preference to gradu
ates of the High School, which has resulted in a unity of
system and harmony of action, as to place our schools on
equal standing and make them as thorough and efficient
as any In the State of AVest Virginia. Twenty-two
teachers are employed in all — twenty white and two col
ored, all of which are zealous, arduous and competent,
thereby placing our schools in a more prosperous condi
tion than ever. Martinsburg has every reason to feel
proud of her school officers and system, and to effect, in
the future, a more rapid advancement than ever experi
enced in the past.
The present Board of Education Is composed of John
Grozlnger, President ; N. T. Fisher, J. H. AVhitson, N.
H. Snyder and E. S. Barton.
Board of Examiners: J. A. Cox, President; AA''. A.
Pitzer, J. L. E. Combs. City Superintendent, J. A.
Cox, A. M.
Faculty of the High School : J. A. Cox, Principal ;
Jennie L. Ditto. 1st Assistant; Annie O'Neal, 2nd As
sistant ; Annie E. Hill, 3rd Assistant.
Faculties of the AA^ard Schools— Second AA^ard : AV. A.
Pitzer, Principal ; LlUie Mathews, Lula A''. Muth, Bettie
M. Day, Assistants. Third AA"ard : O. F. Ryneal, Prin
cipal ; Jennie Alburtis, Jessie McElroy, Kate M. Bate
man, xissistants. Foui'th Ward : J. L. E. Combs. Prin
cipal ; Kate A. Ahern, Lottie V. McKee, Lenora Smurr,
Asssistants. Fifth AVard : Alice A^. AVilson, Principal ;
Jennie E. Mann, Ada M. Rodrick, Clara A^. Cutting,
Assistants. Colored School : J. AA''. Corsey, (colored)
Principal ; Geo. W. Green, (colored) Assistant. Num
ber enrolled in the various free schools in the city:
High school, 178 ; Second Ward, 281 ; Third AA'ard, 227 ;
Fourth Ward 355 ; Fifth Ward, 232 ; colored school, 180;
Total, white children, 1,168 ; Grand total, white and
colored, 1,298.

Situation of Toion and County. 398
BERKELEY FEMALE SEMINARY.
This school, which has been in successful operation for
many years, is located In Martinsburg, AVest A'lrglnla,
and which combines the advantages of accessibility,
healthfulness, good societj-, and general attractiveness,
to a degree unsurpassed by any City In the State. The
course of instruction embraces all the primary and ad
vanced studies, essential to a thorough and accomplished
female education, and such as are taught at similar insti
tutions of the highest grade.
The standard of proficiency Is high, and the ambition
of pupils is encouraged by means of monthly reports to
parents, showing their standing in their various classes.
In the department of music no pains are spared to give
pupils eA'ery advantage necessary to a thorough musical
education. A firm and wholesome discipline is main
tained, together with a conscientious regard for the moral
and religious welfare, the health and comfort, of all
pupils entrusted to their care.
A rigid system of marking is adopted in every depart
ment, and reports candidly exhibiting the standing and
conduct of the pupils, are sent home every month. Gen
eral averages are obtained by adding together the average
for each study, and dividing by the number of studies.
This school has been established for quite a lengthy pe
riod, and Is taught and managed by its very able and
efficient principals, Mrs. Peyton R. Harrison and Miss
B. J. Hunter. The school and residence is situated on
AVest King street.
HOME ORGANIZATIONS, LODGES, Etc.
Martinsburg Fire Department was organized in 1870.
Officers : C. E. Dieffenderfer, Chief Marshal ; C. O. Lam
bert, Assistant ; P. C. Curtis, Commander ; H. C. Mc
Dowell, Treasurer ; C. J. Thomas, Secy. ; Engineers, J.
M. Shaffer and David AVestall ; Assistants, George T. Shaf
fer, David Fitz ; number of Members, 110. The Com
pany is equipped with a Sllsby engine ; has four Reels,

394 Situation of Town and County.
with 2,000 feet of hose ; has recently purchased a new
Reel for 4th AA''ard. Firemen have been recently equip
ped with fine dress uniforms and belts.
The Farmers' and Mechanics' Mutual Fire Insurance
Co. of West Virginia. Officers : James M. Homrich,
Pres't ; H. N. Deatrick, Vice Pres't ; E. S. Troxell,
Sec'y ; AV. A. CushAva, Treas. Directors, Charles P.
Matthaei, Wm. A. Cushwa, Geo. P. Blessing, Geo. W.
McKown, Geo. O. Sperow, Joseph H. Shaffer, C. T. But
ler, M. V. Small, Geo. P. Riner. Executive Committee,
.James M. Homrich, Charles P. Matthaei, Joseph H.
Shaffer. Surveyors — H. T. Cushwa, Berkeley County ;
J. B. Kearfott, Albert Diehl, Jefferson County.
This Company was organized Dec. 18th, 1877, and has
been in successful operation since that time, being pa
tronized by a large majority of the most substantial citi
zens of Berkeley County.
Equality Building Association. — Officers, H. T. Cush
wa, President; AVm Edwards, Sec"y ; AA''. 0. Nicklas,
Treas. Meets every Friday night.
Central Building and Loan Association. — Officers, C.
O. Lambert, President ; F. D. Staley, V"ice-Pres't ; Fer
dinand Gerling, Sec'y; G. AV. Feidt, Treasurer; J. N.
AVisner, Attorney. Meets every Tuesday night.
Enterprise Building Association. — Officers, H. T. Cush
wa, President; AVm. Edwards, Jr., Sec'y; AV. O. Nick-
las, Treas. Meets every Tuesday night.
Equality Lodge, No. 44, A. F. and A. M., meets 2d and
4th Tuesdays from October 1 to July 1, and second Tues
day from July 1 to October 1, northAvest corner Queen
and Burke streets; entrance on Burke street.
Robert AVhite Lodge, No. 57, A. F. and A. M., meets
2d and 4th Monday evenings from October 1 to July 1,
and 4th Monday from July 1 to October 1, soutliAvest cor
ner Queen and King streets, Grantham Hall.
Berkeley Consistory, No. 21, A. and A. S. R., meets 3d

Situation of Town and County. 395
Tuesday evening of each month in hall of Equality Lodge
No. 44, A. F. and A. M.
Palestine Commandery,No. 2,meets 1st Monday of each
week in hall of Robert AVhite Lodge No. 57, A. F. and
A.M. Lebanon Royal Arch, chapter No. 2, meets 2d Monday
evening of each month in hall of Equality Lodge No. 44,
A. F. and A. M.
St. Joseph's Society, President, John Dumford ; sec
retary, John Farrin ; treasurer, James Cox.
St. Patrick's, President, AV. J. O'Connor ; secretary,
Thomas O'Brien ; treasurer, Joseph E. Ahern.
Tuscarora Lodge, No. 24, I. O. O. P., meets every Sat
urday evening, northwest corner Queen and Burke
streets ; entrance on Queen.
Horeb Encampment, No. 12, I.iO. O. F., meets 2d and
4th Tuesday evenings of each month in hall of Tuscarora
Lodge No. 24, I. O. O. P.
Bethany Lodge, No. 7, D. of R., K. AVestrater, N. G.;
E. E. Grazer, V. G.; M. A. Rathman, R. S.; G. V. Rath-
man, F. S.;E. E.Crist, T.
Lincoln Post, No. 1, G. A. R., meets every Thursday
evening in G. A. R. Hall, southeast corner Queen and
Burke streets; entrance on Burke, People's National
Bank Building.
Prosperity Lodge, No. 29, 1. O. G. T., meets every Mon
day evening in G. A. R. hall.
Franklin Assembly, No. 2373 K. L., meets every Satur
day night In G. A. R. hall.
Key Council, No. 432, Royal Arcanum, meets 1st and
3d Friday evenings in G. A. R. hall.
Washington Lodge, No. 1, K. of P., meets every Thurs
day evening in K. of P. hall, southeast corner Queen and
Burke streets ; entrance on Burke, People's National
Bank Building.
Knights of Honor Lodge, No. 62, meets 2d and 4th Fri
day nights in hall of K. of P.

396 Situation of Town and County.
Branch No. 29, Order Iron Hall, meets 2d and 4th
Thursday nights in hall of K. of P.
Berkeley Lodge, No. 173, Order of Tonti, meets 1st and
3d Thursdays of each month in hall of K. of P., People's
National Bank Building.
Mt. Pisgah Lodge, No. 3, A. Y. M., (col'd) meets every
Thursday evening on South College street.
Federal Lodge, No. 152, K. of AV., meets in People's
Bank Building 2d Tuesday in each month ; Chairman,
H. B. Foard; secretary, AV. Corsey.
The Martinsburg Gas Company was organized in 1873 ;
President, H. N. Deatrick ; A''ice-President, J. H. Shaf
fer ; Secretary and Treasurer, F. S. Emmert ; Superin
tendent, D. Rawlinson.
Mechanics' Band.— The High Street Baud, AA". H.
Frankenberry, organizer and leader, was started about
1871, and changed to the Mechanics' Band about 1882 ;
reorganized and incorporated February 6th, 1886.
The Martinsburg City Band Avas organized on the 18th
of December, 1888 ; Mr. P. C. Curtis is the genial man
ager, and Prof. Fred. Luscomb, musical director.
COUNTY ORGANIZATIONS.
Pomono Grange No. 2, located in Martinsburg District ;
meets last Saturday in each month.
Cherry Grove Grange No. 13, located in Opequon Dis
trict ; meets first and third Saturdays of each month.
Tuscarora Grange No. 14, located in Hedgesville Dis
trict ; meets second and fourth Tuesdays of each month.
SAvan Pond Grange No. 22, located In Opequon Dis
trict ; meets second and fourth Saturdays of each month.
Mill Creek Grange No. 26, located In GerardstoAA'n Dis
trict ; meets first and third Tuesdavs of each month.

CHAPTER XVII.
PERSONAL SKETCHES OF THE ENTERPRISING
PUBLIC AND PROFESSIONAL MEN OF
THE PRESENT DAY.
SENATOR C. J. FAULKNER.
i^N May, 1887, Mr. Faulkner was elected to the United
1^ States Senate, at which time he was on the bench,
and resigned to accept the honor conferred upon him.
As a representative, he has the respect and esteem of the
people throughout the State, who feel proud of his mark
ed ability and energy. Among the representatives of the
country at the National Capital, he is fast gaining prom
inence and favor. After his election to the Senate he
associated with him, Stuart AV. Walker, an able and
prominent young laAvyer, for the practice of law, wMch
firm now commands a large and excellent practice.
Senator Faulkner is the younger son of the late Hon.
C. J. Faulkner, the eminent jurist and statesman, both
of whose sons give promise of attaining the legal and
political prominence of their father in State and National
affairs. Senator Faulkner was born at the ancestral
home at Martinsburg, Va., uoav AA''est Virginia, on the
21st of September, 1847. He accompanied his father,
who was Minister to France, in 1859, and had the advan
tage of attending noted schools In Switzerland and in
Paris. He returned to the United States in August, 1861,
and Avas with his father at the time of his arrest, in
Washington ; the story Of which has become a matter of
National history familiar to all. AA"hen he learned that
his father had been arrested, he Immediately started
South, making his way resolutely and determinedly
through all the difficulties incident to those troublous

398 Personal SketcJies.
times. In 1862, when a boy of fifteen, he entered the
Virginia Military Institute at Lexington. He served
with the Cadets in the battle of New Market, where he
was distinguished for his ardor and daring. And later,
served as aide on the Staff of General J. C. Breckenridge,
until he was made Secretary of AA"ar. His courageous
and resolute bearing, allied to one so young in years,
won for him the admiration of officers and soldiers, and
made him a general favorite. He was afterward ap
pointed aide to General Henry A. Wise, and surrendered
AvIth Mm at Appomattox, after which he returned home.
Then began a course of mental training under his father' s
direction, and the foundation was there laid for a suc
cessful public life. The bent of Ms instruction and
Avatchful care, was toward the field of law, in which the
father occupied through all his life a leading place in the
Circuit and Supreme Courts. Thus prepared by so able
a preceptor, he entered the University of Virginia, in
Oct., 1866, and graduated therefrom in June, 1868. He
was admitted to the bar in Sept. , 1868, immediately after
attaining his majority. His mental endowments were of
such high order that he at once became a member of
recognized ability, and of such prominence as that led
from the bar to the bench. He was elected judge of the
13th Judicial Circuit, composed of the counties of Berkeley,
Jefferson and Morgan, in Oct., 1880, at the age of 38 years,
being one of the youngest Judges in the State. He has pre
sided over these courts with credit to himself and to the
universal satisfaction of the people, by whom he is held in
the highest regard and esteem. His judicial record gave
assurance of still higher attainments in his chosen pro
fession. His rulings and decisions have evidenced so im
partial a sense of justice and so thorough a knowledge
of the law, that a distinguished lawyer and political op
ponent said of Mm, "I would not hesitate to trust to
Judge Faulkner's decision in his legal capacity upon any
political question." His prudence and good jud.o-ment

Personal Sketches. 399
were not unnoticed in politics, in which, Avhile not taking
an active part, he manifested considerable interest. Sen
ator Faulkner was chairman of the Democratic County
Committee for a number of years before going on the
bench, and is also widely and prominently known and
esteemed in the Masonic fraternity, having been Grand
Master of the Masonic Grand Lodge of West A^Irginla
during the years 1879-80. By the last will of his father
he inherits "Boydville," the old homestead, after the
death of his mother, a place full of historical interest to
citizens. and strangers. He has built for himself a fine
residence adjoining "Boydville," the house now occu
pied by his venerable mother.
HON. W. H. H. FLICK.
Mr. Flick Avas born in Culhoga County, Ohio, Febru
ary 24th, 1841. His youthful days were spent in the
common schools, and a term at Garfield School, Hiram,
Ohlo^ After that he worked on a farm until the war
broke out, when he entered the army in July, 1861, serv
ing in the 41st Ohio Regiment. He was dangerously
' wounded at Shiloh, April 7th, 1862, and joined the re
cruiting service. After his discharge he taught school
to earn money enough to take up the practice of law, and
then entered the Cleveland Law School, graduating and
being admitted to practice in !^is native county in 1865.
Upon Ms admission he settled in Moorefield, W. Va., for
the practice of his profession, which he followed there
in 1865 and 1866. la the Spring of 1867 he went to Pen
dleton County, where he married and has one child. He
served two terms in the Legislature as representative in
that county. In 1870 he introduced what is known as the
"Flick amendment." He was appointed to fill an unex
pired term as prosecuting attorney of Grant County in
1872, and elected to the same position in Pendleton
County in that year. In 1874 he moved to Martinsburg,
and has served in various official capacities since. In
1886, Hon. AA'". H. H. Flick made a strong run for Con-

400 Personal SketcJies.
gress in the Second AVest Virginia District, and came
within ninety votes of election. Shortly afterward he
associated Avith him In the practice of law Mr. D. C.
AVestenhaver, one of the shining lights of the Berkeley
Bar. Mr. Flick is an able and efficient talker, and en
joys a legal knowledge that but feAv can surpass. The
firm now has an able and extensive practice in the various
courts. It is almost needless to speak of Mr. Flick's
popularity, as he Is generally known throughout this and
the surrounding States. He is of a clever and genial dis
position, and makes one feel perfectly at home while in
his presence. HON'. E. BOYD FAULKNER.
E. Boyd Faulkner AA'as born In July, 1841 . He received
his early education at Georgetown College, and Univer
sity of "Virginia, and traveled extensively in Switzerland
and Italy. He attended lectures upon constitutional law
in Paris, and at the age of eighteen Avas acting as Secre
tary of the American Legation at Paris — an unusual and
complimentary preferment to one so young — and which
gave evidence of rare mental attainments, and of that
strongly marked mind and character which distinguishes
the man of to-day. He returned to the United States in
1861, Avas appointed aide on Gov. Letcher's Staff, but
resigned shortly afterward and became an officer of dis
tinction in the Confederate Army, until his cajature at
Port Republic, in'June, 1864, when he Avas taken with
other prisoners to Johnson's Island, where he was con
fined a year, being released in June, 1865. In 1867, he
went to Hopklnsville, Ky., where he formed a law part
nership with Judge Petree, and the firm had an extensive
practice. By his energy and talent Mr. Faulkner soon
earned for himself a fine reputation as a lawyer and
speaker, and in the Seymour Campaign of 1868, was ap
pointed an Elector for the Second Congressional District
of Kentucky. In 1872 inducements were offered him to
return to his native State, and he located permanently in

Personal SketcJies. 401
Martinsburg. He Is well known at home and abroad as
a gentleman of unswerving integrity of character, and
his splendid abilities as a laAvyer and public speaker in
his professional and political career, are so Avell and fa
vorably known to the people of this section and through
out the State as to require no commendation. He was
elected to the Legislature in 1876, where he served with,
distinguished prominence and ability, and with a faith
fulness to the Interests of the people which will long be-
remembered, and especially noteworthy was the legisla--
tion by him to relieve the bonded indebtedness of Berke
ley County. Under the arrangement made by the court
and through the legislation of Mr. Faulkner, on the 2d
of January, 1881, the 8 per cent, bonds were paid off or
exchanged, and the county relieved of an annual drain
upon it for interest and commission alone of about $8,465,
besides having the bonds bear their just proportion of
the taxes which Aveighed so heavily upon the people.
Such was the universal esteem iu which Mr. Faulkner
was held that he was elected to the Senate in 1873, upon
the expiration of his term in the Legislature. He was
an eminent member of that body, and held in the highest
regard by his fellow Senators. He decliaed the Presi
dency of the Senate, and remained where the work was
to be done, becoming chairman of important committees,
and his record was such as has been referred to with just
pride and pleasure, and led to his being urged to become
a candidate for the nomination of Governor of AVest Vir
ginia in 1884.
At the present time Ms extensive and important law
practice occupies all his time and attention. President
Cleveland tendered to Mr. Faulkner the office of Consul-
General and Agent to Egypt, which, at the earnest so
licitation of Ms friends throughout the State, he decided
not to accept. He was then tendered the Mission to
Persia, which he likewise declined. For several years
friends of Mr. Faulkner in every part of the State have

402 Personal SJietches.
.fceen urging his candidacy for Governor of AA^est Vir-
..^ginla. That he would receive a large vote and discharge
the dignity and duty of the position in the most courtly
•• and popular manner, is admitted by all. '
HON. GEO. W. FEIDT.
Mr. Feidt was born In AVashington County, Md., and
¦ came to Martinsburg in 1872. In his younger days he
worked on the farm and taught school and studied law.
He finished Ms law course with Blackburn & Lamon, in
'this place, and was admitted to the bar in 1875. In 1877
•-'he was appointed Register in Bankruptcy on the recom-
vmendation of Chief Justice Waite. He occupies various
-gsositions in different organizations, and takes an active
part in the interests of the town. He is a sound Repub
lican, and no one does more enthusiastic Avork for the
party than Mr. Feidt. He was elected Prosecuting At
torney of Berkeley County in 1886 by 146 majority, and
has satisfactorily transacted the business of the office
with skill and the best of legal ability. He is a Avorthy,
affable and learned gentleman, and is a credit to Ms
peoiDle. STUART W. WALKER, ESQ.
Mr. Walker, though young in years, is considered very
old in experience and legal knowledge. He is now one
of the most able and successful practitioners at the AA^est
Virginia Bar, and an infiuentlal politician. He is of a
clever disposition, social and agreeable to all who come
in contact with him. Any one having a business connec
tion will not hesitate to speak of him in the best terms.
This able and creditable representative of the legal pro
fession is a son of James H. AValker, now a retired
farmer. He Avas raised on the farm with two other
brothers. Much to his credit he possessed an ambition
for future usefulness with intent to serve his people. He
was educated at the Berkeley Academy, formerly In this
city, and decided to make law his profession. This he
successfully accomplished by taking a two years' course

Personal Sketches. 403
in one year at the AVashington and Lee University, Lex
ington, Va. Upon his arrival home he was given a tho
rough examination by Judge C. J. Faulkner and Judge
Armstrong, of Romney, who were then on the bench. In
this he passed with honors, after which he was admitted
to practice in the courts of the district. Through his ener
gy and talent he at once became interested in and repre
sented many of the most important civil and criminal
cases before the courts. His success in the various courts
attracted the attention of Judge Faulkner and led to his
rapid advancement. He is an excellent talker, has a fine
delivery and a persuasive and argumentative bearing.
He is well known all over the State, having delivered
speeches and addresses in every county. He is a man of
self-confidence, and is always prepared to speak on any
topic at a moment' s notice. In May, 1887, Mr. Faulkner
was elected to the United States Senate, immediately
after which he formed a law partnership under the firm
name of Faulkner & AValker. This move of business on
the part of Judge Faulkner, Avhile adding much labor to
the firm by a heavy increase, encouraged Mr. AValker
with more than usual zeal. He has since represented the
cases and produced the ablest arguments that have ever
been laid before our courts. Important cases have taken
him to many counties in the State.
Mr. Walker has been identified by birth with the Dem
ocratic Party, and has always taken great interest and
worked with untiring zeal for its advancement. During
the campaign of 1884 he spoke for weeks, daily, and
often twice a day, throughout the Thirteenth Senatorial
District. His friends, irrespective of party, are urging
him to accept positions of responsibility and trust. For
him to accept any nomination will Insure a victory to his
party. The stand he has taken has led the people to be
lieve that he will mete justice fairly and honorably to
all. His past career has been a most honorable and suc
cessful one, through which he now enjoys the confidence

404 Personal SketcJies.
and esteem of his jpeople. Mr. AValker has the vigor
and confidence that will achieve the greatest results.
DAVID C. WESTENHAVER, ESQ.
It AA'as when the conflict of contending armies was ex
pending its force during the late civil war that the sub
ject of this sketch was born. He is a native of this
county, and has lived here since Ms birth. His father
Avas a farmer, and consequently his early education was
confined to such branches of information as are usually
taught in the average country school. His nature was
not such to be content with this, and with an inn'ate de
sire for a higher and more comprehensive knowledge, we
find him aiming at and striving for a greater degree of
excellence. He taught school, and at the same time pur
sued a course of instruction in law under private tutors.
This merely opened to him a view of the wide field be
yond, into which he boldly plunged alone, and, unaided
any more by such private instructions as he previously
had. We can say nothing better for him than that few
persons, through their own personal efforts and ability,
have ever raised themselves to such a degree of high
public esteem and in so comparatively short a time as has
Mr. Westenhaver.
He completed his law course at the Georgetown Law
School, taking a two years' course in one and graduating
with honor. The thesis upon which his essay for this
occasion was written was ' ' Expatriation and Naturaliza
tion," and which gained for him the first prize from the
above institution.
Upon entering the active duties of his chosen profes
sion he assumed a partnership with Hon. W. H. H.
Flick, under the firm name of Flick & Westenhaver,
the firm remaining so constituted at the present time. In
1886 he was appointed Prosecuting Attorney of Berkeley
County to fill an unexpired term, and fulfilled the trusts
of that office with great satisfaction to the people. Mr.
Westenhaver's mental attainments are of the highest

Personal SketcJies. 405
order, and though a young man, his place is a conspicu
ous one at the Bar, as well as among recognized leaders
of his political school in this county. In politics he is
a Democrat. In oratory he can boast of but little excel
lence ; his persuasive powers in this direction are effec
tive, not because of any brilliancy of speech, but because
of clear and unequivocal argument. His past career as a
lawyer has been pre-eminently successful. His is an ex
ample of a self-made man. His future career cannot but
make him a successful leader and an honored and re
spected citizen. BLACKBURN HUGES, ESQ.
This able rej)resentative of the Berkeley Bar was born
in Cumberland County, Va., and educated at Hampden
Sidney College, Virginia, graduating from that institution
in June, 1859, with the Speaker's medal from the Union
Society. He studied law in Judge Brockenborough' s
Law School, in Lexington, Va., in 1860 and 1861. He
first practiced in the courts of his native county, and for
a short time in Richmond, but removed to Berkeley in
the fall of 1867, and after the repeal of the test oaths he
was admitted to the Bar of this county, in which he has
ever since occupied a leading place iu talent and the
regards of his fellow members and the people In general.
Personally, he is a very agreeable gentleman, and takes
an active interest in all public matters. He has filled
several important trusts In church and State conventions.
He was elected a member of .the County Court In 1880,
and on its organization was elected its President, to
which position he has been re-elected each succeeding
year. Politically, Mr. Hughes has always been closely iden
tified with the Democratic Party, though conservative in
his views and liberal to all men, however widely differ
ing on public questions. His name was prominently
mentioned in connection with the State Senatorship from
the 18th District in 1886. In 1887 he associated Avith

406 Personal SJietcJies.
himself Mr. Hugh A. White, an able and energetic young
lawyer, and they are now engaged in a good practice
before the courts of this district.
HON. GEO. M. BOWERS
Is a son of the late John S. Bowers, one of the leading
citizens of the county. He was born at Gerardstown and
received his education at the Martinsburg High School.
When but a mere shool boy he showed promising busi
ness qualities and made extensive purchases and sales on
his own account. Upon the death of his father he ad
ministered the estate (which was a very large one) and
made a prompt and satisfactory settlement of everything.
He took charge of the Eureka Mills, in this city, in 1884,
and is yet carrying on the most extensive milling busi
ness in the city. He has considerable Interest in real
property and also In A-arious organizations, manufactories,
etc. On the 17th of March, 1888, he was elected a di
rector of the' C. V. and M. R. R., and is one of
the most prominent directors of the National Bank.
In politics he is a Republican and commands a large
influence. By his zeal and energy he has won the es
teem and respect of the Berkeley people, and in 1884 he
was made Chairman of the Berkeley Delegation to the
Parkersburg and Grafton Convention. His success and
ability in this placed him before the people of the State,
and through which he has achieved the loudest praise.
In 1886 he was nominated on the Reijubllcan ticket for
Legislature, and was elected by the largest majority ever
given one man in the county. During his term of office
he has not once failed or shirked any responsible duty
that has fallen his lot. He is now Vice-President of the
"National Republican League for the State of West Vir
ginia. His name is now being urged for State Auditor,
and if nominated, there is but little doubt as to his elec
tion being a successful one, and a victory for the party.
Mr. Bowers has a large friendship and acquaintance
among the farmers and laboring class of people. His

Personal SketcJies. 407
kind, affable manners, and sound reasoning and persua
sive powers has endeared him to the hearts of his peo
ple. He possesses the ability, and will execute any re
sponsibility thrown upon him in the most successful
manner. PROF. J. A. cox.
Born in Ohio Co., Va., (now AV. Va.,) May 30, 1858 ;
graduated at Bethany College, W. Va., in 1882, with the
degree A. B., taking the first honor of his class ; received
the degree A. M. one year later ; is now, as Superinten
dent of the Martinsburg City Schools and Principal of
the High School, in his sixth year in the profession of
teaching ; was two years Principal of the West Liberty
State Normal School, at the end of which time the stu
dents almost unanimously petitioned the State Superin
tendent and Board of Regents for his re-appointment ;
was Principal of Kingwood Academy five months, which
position he resigned to take charge of the city schools of
Martinsburg ; was given a letter of endorsement signed
by all his Kingwood students, by his assistant teachers,
and by all the trustees of the school ; won a first premi
um in a mathematical contest with 955 competitors, thus
becoming one of the authors of "The New Arithmetic,"
published by Eaton, Gibson & Co., Buffalo, New York ;
has written considerably on educational and other topics ;
and is the author of a neat little pamphlet on arithmetic,
entitled "Two Hundred Practical Problems." Prof.
Cox has given universal satisfaction at Martinsburg, so
much so that his salary was raised several hundred dol
lars by the Board. CHAS. p. MATTHAEI, ESQ.
Mr. Matthaei, the genial and agreeable Justice, is a
native of Germany, and was born in the year 1835. He
came to this country in the year 1854, and entered the
confectionery business in Baltimore, Md., where he re
mained about six years. In 1860 he removed to Martins
burg and opened up a confectionery store inthe building

408 Personal Sketches.
now occupied by Chas. D. Matthaei, next to Court House.
After twenty-three years of business success, he retired,
and turned the business over to Charles D., who has con
tinued to the present day.
During his early days, his advantages for an English
education were very limited, and Mr. Matthaei may cred
itably be termed a self-made man. In the fall of 1884 he
was elected Justice of the Peace, which office he now
holds. During Ms term of office, he has filled the posi
tion ably and creditably, and has given general satisfac
tion to the public. Mr. Matthaei is a close observer, of
sound, practical judgment, and a genial and agreeable
gentleman. He has held positions of honor and public
trust, and acquitted himself creditably to the satisfaction
of his constituents. Mr. Matthaei is considerably inter
ested in the organizations, societies and corporations of
the city, and is the OAvner of a large amount of property.
He is well known throughout the State, and a very pop
ular gentleman. C. O. LAMBERT, ESQ.
Mr. Lambert, the present Mayor of Martinsburg, Avas
born at Frederick City, Md., in 1838, and is a son of
Frederick Lambert, Esq. He was educated In the public
schools of that city, and at the age of fifteen years, en
tered the butchering business under Charles D. Schell.
Here he served his time as an apprentice, acquiring every
art and branch of the business. In 1857 he moved to
Shepherdstown, and there carried on business for him
self until the commencing of the war in 1861, when he
enlisted in the Confederate Calvary, 12th A^irginia Regi
ment. After the close of the war in 1865 he came to
Martinsburg and entered business Avith his brother,
George D. Lambert, where he remained until 1869, and
then entered business for himself — continuing at the
present day. Mr. Lambert was elected Councilman from
his ward iu 1878, and afterwards served three terms of
two years each — five years and a-half of Avhich he served

Personal SketcJies. 409
as Mayor ^ro tem. In 1884 he Avas elected Mayor by an
excellent majorUy, and conducted the affairs of the city
creditably and with ability. His services in this official
capacity were appreciated in such a manner, that In 1886
and 1888, a demand was made by the people for his re
election, which was successfully accomplished. As
Mayor of the City, Mr. Lambert has proven himself
worthy of the office, and his services are appreciated by
the people in general, who hold him in the highest es
teem. He is a Democrat in politics, and of a genial and
clever disposition. As evidenced by his past career, Mr.
Lambert is what may well be termed a self made man.
He is also at present carrying on business at his old loca
tion. No. 23 N. Queen st., where can be found at all
times fresh meats, groceries, i:»rovisions, confectioneries,
tobaccos, cigars, etc. Mr. Lambert is also considerably
interested in farming imrsuits, and various other enter
prises. C. W. DOLL, ESQ.
C. AV. Doll, Esq., Clerk of the County Court, was born
in this city in the year 1820. For nearly thirty years he
was engaged in the dry goods business, after Avhich he
served six or eight years in the hardware line. He has
served the County Court as Clerk since Jan. 1st, 1873,
and has done valuable seiwice to the county in the ar
rangement of the many papers and records on file there.
On his election to this office he received almost the entire
vote of the Republican and Democrotio parties combined.
He is a courteous and obliging gentleman, and is held in
the highest esteem by all Avho know Mm. As a citizen,
he takes a great deal of Interest, and is one of the most
liberal men in the county.
ROBERT LAMON, ESQ
Mr. Lamon was born in Mill Creek District, Berkeley
County, about nine miles from the city of Martinsburg.
He was raised on a farm, and at an early age manifested
considerable interest and energy in business and public

410 Personal SketcJies.
affairs. He Is a self-made man, having had advantage of
no other education than the common school of his boy
hood days. In politics he is a strong and influential
Democrat, and under Lincoln's administration he served
in the capacity of Deputy Marshal of the District of
Columbia. As Secretary and Treasurer, he has been the
means, to a considerable extent, of building up the M.
& W. Turnpike, which office he fills to the present day.
At the election in 1887 he was elected Sheriff of Berke
ley County, by a majority of 338, a much larger vote
than had been polled previously. He has served his
people faithfully in this capacity, and in his accounts is
up with the State. He is of a fine manly bearing, and Is
held in the highest respect. For a number of years he
has acted as a Director of the People's National Bank.
S. H. MARTIN, ESQ.
Mr. Martin was born in PottstoAvn, Montgomery Co.,
Pa., in 1826, and came to this county in the year 1840.
He Avas a clerk in the store of VV. S. Long, at Bunker
Hill, for a short while, after Avhich he came to this city
and entered the store of Jacob Van Doren. In 1842 he
went back to the former place and remained with J. W.
Grantham until 1851, when he again returned to town
and clerked for B. R. Boyd. In 1857 he formed a part
nership with Ezra Herring and continued until 1859,
when they dissolved and Mr. Martin continued the store
until 1860. Shortly afterward he formed a partnership
with George Sherrer, which continued until the break
ing out of the late Avar. In 1861 he Avent into the em
ploy of the B. & O. R. R. office and remained until 1878.
In the fall of '78 he Avas elected Clerk of the Circuit
Court, Avhich capacity he now fills Avitli credit and ability.
As a gentleman, he is kind and generous, and is one of
Martinsburg's most Avorthy citizens.
WM. T. STEWART, ESQ.
In the person of Mr. Stewart, is represented one of
Martinsburg's most prominent, AA-ealthlest and influential

Personal Sketches. 411
citizens. He Avas born in this county and raised on a
farm, acquiring none other than the common school edu
cation. He now holds and ably fills the offices of Presi
dent of the National Bank, M. & W. Turnpike Company,
and is also a Director of the C. V. & M. R. R. Being
largely interested in county enterprises, he devotes con
siderable time and attention to industrial development.

CHAPTER XVIII.
BIOGRAPHY OF MARTINSBURG'S BUSINESS
MEN.
THE PEOPLE'S NATIONAL BANK.
I^HIS institution was established in 1878 as a People's
Deposit, with a capital of about $12,000. In 1874
it was re-organized as a National Bank, at which time two
competing banks were charging 10 and 12 per cent, in
terest on money. This bank, after its reorganization,
began business by charging 8 per cent., and was the first
of the three to fall to 6 per cent. It was a grand success
from the day it opened its doors, and has been managed
with such financial ability that in fifteen years it has ac
cumulated a very large surplus and dividend. Its line
of bank deposits are decidedly larger than those of its
competing neighbor. In 1882 the present site, on corner
of Queen and Burke Streets was purchased, and has
since been improved until it uoav constitutes one of the
finest buildings in the city. The interior is elegantly and
conveniently arranged, and handsomely furnished. The
vaults are large and secure, and will compare with any
in the State. For fifteen years the finances of this bank
have been under the management of Jno. B. Wilson,
Esq., Avho has served the institution ably and successful
ly as cashier. With A. J. Thomas, Esq., as President,
it cannot but help insure a successful future. Mr.
Thomas is an excellent financier and is largely interested
In various enterprises. Through the energy and zeal of
Mr. Wilson, cashier, this bank in 1888 gained the top
most round on the ladder of success, by being designa
ted a Depository of the United States. Mr. Wilson is a
Avlde-awak-i and eaergetic citizen, popular throusihout

BlograpJiy of Business Men. 413
business circles, and highly esteemed by the people of
his county. His assistants are Messrs. Geo. Knapp and
Frank AVilson, who efficiently aid in the transaction of
affairs, and for a knowledge of general banking business,
are unsurpassed. By their liberality, caution and finan
cial ability, the above gentlemen have made it a grand
success, and its reputation at home and abroad is estab
lished and its business daily growing larger.
JOHN W. WALKER & CO.
Mr. John AV. AValker, the efficient manager and head of
this firm, is a son of James H. AValker, Esq., and was
born in Berkeley County. He was raised on a farm Avith
two other brothers. Hunter and Stuart, all of whom are
well-known throughout the county, and are among the
enterprising citizens. John W. was given the advantage
of the common schools, and later attended an academy
taught in Martinsburg by John Sellers, Esq. He next
entered the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy, where
he remained two years, and afterward started in the
drug business in Martinsburg. After a decided success
of two years in the latter place, he removed to Baltimore
City, and passing a thorough examination before the
Board of Pharmacy, he opened up in the drug business.
Here he remained two or three years, when he again re
turned to his native county, and started the present
merchandising firm. As a druggist Mr. AValker ranks
among the most successful men of the day, having car
ried off the highest honors of his classes, and passed
through the most difficult examinations. Since starting
in the merchandise business, he has conducted one of
the finest stores In the State. His place is neatly arrang
ed, clean and convenient, and for fresh goods, he is un
surpassed by any in the city. Groceries and provisions
of every variety are kept constantly on hand at the
lowest possible figures. His present location is on Queen
Street, National Bank Building. Mr. Walker is obli
ging and accommodating, and generally known through-

414 Biography of Business Men.
out the county as an industrious and enterprising
citizen. p. A. CUNNINGHAM.
Mr. Cunningham is the eldest son, now living, of
Philip S. Cunningham, dec'd., who served iu the capaci
ty of 1st Lieutenant under Col. J. Q. A. Nadenbousch,
during the late war. P. A. was born in Berkeley County
about one mile south of the present city of Martinsburg,
in the year 1861. In 1866 the family moved to Fredrick
City, Md., and returned to this county again in 1877.
His father died before they moved to the former place,
in 1865. Patrick A. was given the advantage of the
Catholic schools in Frederick City, and at an early age
showed considerable energy and enterprise. Like many
others, he had the br^oad world before him, with but
little assistance to gain a trade or profession. After
their return to this city, he entered the photograph gal
lery under R. J. Rankin, Esq., where he remained about
two years, — serving the required time as an apprentice.
He next went with P. C. Hunter, and ably assisted in
building up a standard reputation, about the year 1882,
and remained for a period of nearly five years. In July,
1886, he purchased the establishment of his former em
ployer, Mr. Rankin, and undertook a business routine,
Avhich he has since successfully accomplished and meri
ted. He is a genial and clever young man, and is a
great deal thought of by the young people in general.
His present place of business is situated over the Nation
al Bank, Queen Street, where photography is finely exe
cuted in all its branches. He uses the instantaneous
process, and guarantees satisfaction. A large and well
equipped line of picture frames are always to be found
in stock. His studio is well furnished, and everything
complete for the trade. He also makes a specialty of
copying and enlarging. One will find In Mr. Cunningham
a warm friend, and an obliging gentleman.

Biography of Business Men. 415
p. NICKLAS, BRO. & CO.
This firm has been long established in Martinsburg,
and has become one of the leading houses in town. The
father of the present firm followed carpet manufacturing
in the Cumberland Valley from his youth, and the sons
have established business houses in several of the lead
ing towns in the Valley. One branch after another has
been added, and enlargements made as the business in
creased, until now they have every convenience for their
extensive trade in carpets, furniture, chamber sets,
library furniture, wallpapers, &c. Fully prepared to do
all kinds of upholstering and repairing. Their carpets
range from the cheaper goods to the best American and
European manufacture. The most obliging attention is
given to the trade, and special pains taken to please
purchasers. Mr. AV. O. Nicklas is the manager of the
firm, and is one of our most enterprising citizens. He
takes part in various organizations of the town, and has
built for himself a neat and attractive home on the corner
of Queen and John Streets. The business rooms of the
firm are at No. 11 Queen Street.
E. G. BARTLETT.
Mr. Bartlett is a native of Marshal Co., AV. Va. He
located in Cumberland in 1867, and was engaged in rail
roading, and removed to Martinsburg in 1866, following
the same occupation. He was appointed to a position in
the Hannis Distillery under President Arthur, and ful
filled his duties very acceptably, remaining until the
new administration came in. He purchased the Book
store of A. Oden, No. 17 Queen Street, in 1885, where he
set to work to build for himself a permanent business.
He deals largely in books, stationery, daily, Aveekly and
monthly papers and magazines, tissue paper, drawing
paper, map drawing and sketch books, school supplies,
Avater color paints, steel engravings, autotypes, mottoes,
picture frame mouldings ; picture frames made to order;
albums and scrap books, scrap pictures, music and mu- -

416 Biography of Business Men.
sical merchandise ; agent for all newspapers and maga
zines af publishers' prices.
H. L. DOLL & CO.
Mr. Doll, the genial manager and proprietor of the
large hardware establishment, situated on the Public
Square, was born in Martinsburg in the year 1853, and
is a son of C. AV. Doll, Esq., Clerk of the County Court.
He received a common school education, and afterward
entered the hardware business as a clerk with H. A. Rid
dle, where he remained nearly ten years. In 1879 the
firm of H. L. Doll & Co. was formed, and business com
menced in the large and commodious building known as
"King Street Hall," at Avhich place they have continued
till the present day. Mr. Doll has had considerable ex
perience in the business, and has met with a decided suc
cess. The firm holds an excellent and most reliable repu
tation, and their business is conducted on a strict and
sound basis. They keep constantly on hand everything
connected with the hardware line, and make a specialty
of House Paints, Builders Hardware, Farmers' Supplies,
etc. They deal largely in Timothy and Clover Seed, and
furnish every part of the business at the lowest possible
figures. Their store and ware rooms, occupying two
large floors, present a neat and clean appearance, and
everything is arranged in the most convenient and pleas
ing manner. Their present location is on the corner of
King and Queen Sts., Public Square.
R. FRANK BARR.
Mr. Barr, one of Martinsburg's enterprising young
business men, is a son of Robt. Barr, Esq., a native of
Virginia, and was born one mile south of AVinchester,
Va., in 1862. His advantages for an education were like
the majority represented in this work — limited to the
common school of his day. About the year 1882 he en
tered the jewelry business under AV. L. Jones, where he
remained nearly five years ; completing his trade and
gaining the advantages of the business in all its branches.

Biography of Business Men. 417
He then resigned his position and acted as General Sec
retary of the Y. M. C. A. After serving this worthy in
stitution creditably and deservingly for, a period of eight
months, he decided to enter the jewelry business for
himself. In May, 1888, he opened up in the J. L. AV.
Baker Building, North Queen street. Any article not in
stock will be furnished within a short time, and every
thing offered on sale will be at the lowest reasonable
figure. He makes a specialty of fine repairing, etc. Mr.
Barr has had considerable experience in his business,
and any one wishing to purchase will find in him a cour
teous and accommodating gentleman. He is a young
man, energetic and industrious, and Martinsburg can
Avell feel proud of him as a citizen.
BURKHART & CO.
Dr. AVm. D. Burkhart, the leading partner and man
ager of the above firm, is a native of Berkeley County.
In 1852 he graduated in medicine at the University of
Maryland, and afterwards practiced in this city for about
three years. As a physician he built up a splendid prac
tice and fine reputation. A short while afterward he
gave up his practice and became teller in the old Bank
of Berkeley. About the year 1865 he organized the pres
ent National Bank, and was elected cashier, which position
he filled with ability and success. Through his untiring
efforts this institution continued to progress, until it had
gained a reliable and wide reputation. He continued in
the banking business for a period of twenty-five years.
In 1879 he established the Glass and China firm, known
as Burkhart & Co., which he has successfully managed
to the present day, and gained for it an enviable reputa
tion. He is the exclusive dealer in the city, in fine goods
of his line. The store is neatly and artistically arrang
ed with beautiful lamps, fancy goods, etc., of every des
cription. Dr. Burkhart is a genial and clever gentleman,
and one with whom it is a pleasure to deal. Their pres-
27

418 BlograpJiy of Business Men.
ent location is on North-east corner of Public Square,
adjoining his residence, and near Continental Hotel.
JOHN W. NEER.
Mr. Neer was born in the year 1829, and is a native of
Loudon County, Virginia. His boyhood days were spent
in farming pursuits, and no other advantages were had
for an education, excepting those offered by the common
schools. He came to Martinsburg in 1850, and was em
ployed as an engine man on the B. & O. R. R., until
1857. He then returned to Loudon County and engaged
in farming until 1863. Shortly afterward he served as
sutler in the Fourth Brigade of the 19th Army Corps of
the 24th and 28th Indiana, and 26th and 27th Ohio Regi
ments, commanded by Col. Washburn. About the year
1865 he engaged in the coal, wood and lumber business
at Harper' s Ferry, where he remained until 1870, when
he was washed out by the great flood on the Shenandoah
River of that year, and incurred a loss of about $8,000.
He then commenced' farming in Jefferson County, AA"
Va., and continued from 1871 until 1873, Avhen he again
engaged in the service of the B. & O. R. R., and served
the company until 1887. After a service of twenty one
years as engine man on the B. & 0., he decided to per
manently locate in business. On the 13th of March,
1888, he purchased the entire stock and fixtures of G. A.
Smith, and opened up on King street, near St. Clair
Hotel, a first-class general merchandise store. Every
thing in the line Is kept ahvays on hand at the loAvest
possible figures, and his store is neatly arranged and
stocked with fresh goods. He makes a specialty of fine
cigars, tobaccos and green groceries. Mr. Neer is a
pleasing and accommodating gentleman, and the general
public will find in him energy and enterprise, — so es
sential for the requiremen,ts of an upright business.
J. P. SWARTZ.
Mr. Swartz was born in the year 1829, and is a native
of Berkeley County. During his early days his entire

BlograpJiy of Business Men. 419
time was given to the milling business, and with a com
mon education, he commenced business in what is now
known as the "Swartz" mill, in 1842. Here he continu
ed until 1880, when he established himself permanently
in the merchantile business. As a miller, Mr. ' Swartz
has few superiors, and while engaged in the business
met with much success. His patronage extended far
beyond Berkeley and adjoining counties. In 1880 he
opened his store in the room adjoining O'Neal's drug store,
but on account of increasing demands in business, was
compelled to seek larger quarters. Shortly afterward
he moved to Wysong's Hall, Avhere he remained a short
while, and then removed to the large and commodious
room he occupies at present. His place of business is
centrally located, being next door to the Post-office. At
all times can be found good, fresh goods, and at reason
able prices. He makes a specialty of flour, feed, grain
and groceries, besides a well supplied stock of general
merchandise. Mr. Swartz is a genial and clever gentle
man, and one Avith whom it is a pleasure to deal.
LEMEN BROS.
The genial manager of the above firm, Thomas T.
Lemen, is a native of Jefferson County, and was born in
the year 1868. During his boyhood days his entire at
tention was given to farming pursuits. In the fall of
1878 he entered Shepherd College, at Shepherdstown,
and graduated in 1881. He then resumed farming and
continued until July 25th, 1887, when he and his brother
entered business In Martinsburg. They purchased the
store and fixtures, for many years occupied by J. W.
Roberts on Queen street. Thomas T. is yet a young man,
and, although young in years he is old in practical busi
ness experience. He is a son of M. B. Lemen, Esq., an
old, experienced and reputable farmer, yet residing in
Jefferson County. During his younger days, Thomas
manifested and showed considerable ability for business
qualifications, and at an early age became interested in

420 BlograpJiy of Business Men.
many important matters. AVith his brother, he is doing
a large and successful business on a sound basis, com
manding an excellent reputation. Their present loca
tion is Queen street, next door to Adams Express Office.
They deal in flour, feed, coal, wood, etc., at the lowest
possible figures. Mr. Lemen is an obliging and accom
modating gentleman, and deserves the patronage of the
general public. M. L. DORN, JR.
Mr. Dorn, the young and energetic tailor, situated on
East Martin street, is a son of Martin L. Dorn, Sr., and
Avas born in Martinsburg in the year 1861. He was given
the advantages of the common schools for an education,
and at an early age entered the tailoring business under
his father. He applied himself to every branch of the
trade, and after several years service attended a cutting
school in New York, under the Avell- known firm of John
J. Mitchell & Co. After acquiring the art and its ad
vantages, he returned to Martinsburg, and in 1883 estab
lished himself permanently in business. Mr. Dorn has
devoted his entire attention to the trade, and as a cutter^
he is unsurpassed by any in the State. He is yet a young
man, energetic and industrious, and is held in the highest
esteem by all his acquaintances. His place of business
is located on East Martin street, where can be found at
all times the latest styles and best qualities of Cassl
meres, fancy suitings and pantaloonings. At his place
will be furnished the lowest prices, with a full line of
goods always open for inspection. Mr. Dorn is genial
and courteous, and guarantees satisfaction to all Ms pat
rons. I. L. BENDER & BRO.
Messrs. I. L. Bender & Bro. engaged in the lumber
business about twelve years ago, succeeding H. L. Cllp-
pinger & Co., for whom I. L. was book-keeper. Their
yard at that time occupied a small leased lot on corner of
East Race and Spring streets. They have since, by pur-

BlograpJiy of Business Men. 421
chase, obtained possession of this and adjoining lots, thus
extending their yard from a front on East Race along
Spring, with rear on John street. They have also added
large buildings and sheds for shops and the storage of an
ample supply of lumber, doors, sash, blinds, flooring,
siding, etc., for the demands of their trade. Their own
railroad siding for loading bark, loading and unloading
lumber, and their central location and convenience to the
railroad shops, makes their place of business one of the
most desirable in the city. In 1881 they added the coal
and wood business to their already large trade. In this
they have enjoyed a marked success, owing to their well
deserved reputation for furnishing the best coal in good
condition, good Avelght and prompt delivery. Messrs.
Bender are among our substantial and reliable business
men, who have added by their oavu energy and kind In
dulgence much to our city's appearance, as well as to the
comfort of not a feAv of our people.
Lee M. Bender, of the above firm, was born in Penn
sylvania, raised on a farm, and attended public day
schools during the winters. Later he attended a private
school at Greencastle, Pa., where he stood among the high
est in his class in Latin and the higher mathematics.
From here, in 1875, he went to the Willlamsport Com
mercial College. After graduating he took the position
of head book-keeper for the firm of Rowley & Herman ce,
now the largest manufacturers of machinery in the State.
During the winter of 1876 he was emplyed as Professor
in the theoretical department of the College High School.
Coming to Martinsburg in 1878, he entered the lumber
business in which he is still engaged.
J. WM. HILL.
The above name represents one of Berkeley County's
most energetic and enterprising young men. Mr. Hill
was born in the year 1859, in Martinsburg, and is a son
of James E. Sill, an old established and reputable shoe
maker, situated on West John Street. He obtained no

422 Biography of Business Men.
other advantages for an education than those offered by
the common schools of his day. At the early age of
fourteen years he entered the shoe business with his
father, and served five years. Leaving this he acted in
the capacity of a clerk from 1879 until 1882, when he
entered the Post Office as delivery clerk under the effi
cient Post- master, J. Nelson AVisner. He remained here
about fifteen months, and then went to Baltimore, where
he completed a practical clerkship under the reputable
firm of Geo. K. McGraw & Co., one of the finest retail
stores in that city. He afterward returned to Martins
burg and resumed a clerkship until 1888. Having obtain
ed a complete and practical idea of the grocery business,
he established himself on Queen Street, and opened up a
first-class store. Mr. Hill is well known throughout tlje
town and county, find is a popular young man. He pos
sesses a kind and courteous disposition, is honest and
upright in his dealings, and is agreeable to all. His place
of business is located on Queen Street, next door to
Crump's hardware store. At all times can be found a
fresh and well supplied stock of g]^oceries, provisions,
etc., at reasonable prices.
HYDE'S JEWELRY STORE.
A short sketch of the jewelry establishment of Mr. H.
S. Hyde, its past history, and present dimensions, may
be of interest to the reader.
Vast contrasts are presented as between the jewelry
house of H. S. Hyde as it is now and as it was in 1823,
when Jas. Hutchison, a practical silversmith, established
it. It was then the first enterprise of its kind in the Val
ley ; its patronage was but limited, and its trade came
from a sparsely settled country, whose inhabitants had
little use for jewelry, and whose possessions of silver
plate were usually limited to a modest array of articles
that now-a-days would seem primitive enough. The
premises occupied by Mr. Hutchison were small— only
about 12x15 feet, but for a long series of years they af-

Biography of Business Men. 428
forded ample room. In 1854 a son, Samuel Hutchison,
succeeded to the business, and in 1870 he remodeled the
building and enlarged the salesroom to 17x24 feet. Upon
Mr. Hutchinson's death Mr. Hyde purchased the business,
the stock then invoicing about $1,500. Mr. H., by the
way, is a native of Strasburg, Va., (on the Shenandoah.)
AVorking on his father' s farm until he was 20 years of
age, he determined upon another field of labor and so
entered the jewelry business. In 1872 he went to Spring
field, Ohio, where he completed his trade under the in
struction of Benj. Allen, a leading jeweler in that city.
In 1874 we find Mr. \Hyde in Martinsburg connected
with the firm of AVelland & Hyde, and in 1877 he pur
chased the pioneer jewelry store of this section — a house
Avhose trade has wonderfully developed under Ms man
agement. Upon entering the store (which was recently enlarged,
so that now the salesroom is upward of fifty feet deep)
one' s eyes are greeted Avith the glitter of gold and the
sheen of silver, Avhile one's second self is reflected from
numerous mirrors adorning the walls. The contents of
the numerous show cases naturally arrest attention ; in
one case we see gold and silver watches, and precious
stones ; the contents of the adjoining case are in part a
duplicate of the first — here also are gold pens, pencils
and other articles. Case No. 3 is chiefly devoted to jet
and initial jewelry ; No. 4 to fine silver ware ; No. 5 to
flat ware ; Nos. 6 and 7 to granite ware, statues and toilet
sets ; No. 8 to French clocks ; No. 9 to American clocks ;
No. 10 to novelties of various kinds. We also notice one
of Lillle's improved safes, a massive iron and steel affair,
weighing 3,900 pounds — a fire and burglar proof recep
tacle for valuables.
Another thing we notice is the "Regulator," over 7
feet high, its huge pendulum swinging to and fro as it
sloAvly and solemnly ticks out the moments. The room
is handsomely finished and painted ; the ceiling is espe-

424 BlograpJiy of Business Men.
daily noteworthy, with its centre pieces of inlaid wood
from which depend globed chandeliers ; in brief, the
apartment is a model of good taste.
In addition to the local trade and the large repair busi
ness that is had — this latter department receiving Mr.
Hyde's careful attention — the house controls a consider
able jobbing business, filling orders In widely different
parts of the country, and we fancy that Mr. Hyde has
every reason to be satisfied with the aggregates of his
business. Mr. Hyde is still a young man, being only 38 years old.
He is what may be styled a "self-made" man. Of the
three jewelers who were carrying on business here in
1876 he alone remains. He has certainly accomjDlIshed
a decided success thus far, and four young jewelers grow
ing up insure success in business. His present establish
ment Is said to be the largest between Baltimore and
Wheeling, and is knoAvn as Hyde's Building, Nos. 48,
50 and 52 Queen street. C. E, LAMAR.
Mr. Lamar, the genial and popular livery-man, is a
native of Maryland, and was born in Frederick County
in 1857. During his early days he was given no other
advantages for an education excepting those offered by
the schools of Frederick. His life during his younger
days was given to business pursuits of various kinds, and
in this way he obtained an education and idea of general
business affairs. In 1882 he engaged in general merchan
dising near Shepherdstown, Jefferson County, AV. Va.)
and continued about three years. Disposing of his mer
cantile business, and about a year later, he opened up a
livery and sale stable at Charlestown, in 1884. He con
fined here about two years, and taking advantage of the
opportunity, he decided to move to Martinsburg, Avhere
the trade was completely monopolized by one livery-man.
In 1886 he announced his opening at the St. Clair Hotel
stables, where he has continued to the present day.

BlograpJiy of Business Men. 425
Since opening a first-class livery, Mr. Lamar has had the
general run of patronage, which is well evidenced by his
fine turnouts of horses and vehicles. Mr. Lamar is a
gemal and agreeable gentleman, and is a very popular
man. He can be found at the St. Clair Hotel, where he
makes his office, at all times ; and for a fine turnout, at
the lowest figure, he can accommodate all.
GEORGE E. KERSHNER.
The above name represents one of Martinsburg's ener
getic and industrious young men. Mr. Kershner was
born in Hedgesville, this county, about the year 1853,
and is a son of George M. Kershner, Esq. His advanta
ges for an education were limited to that of the common
school. At an early age he apprenticed himself at the
plastering business, under his father's instructions, and
applied himself to the trade In all its branches. A few
years later he entered business for himself, and has suc
ceeded in establishing a reliable business. His present
location is on AVilliamsport Pike, near Moler Avenue.
Mr. Kershner Is prompt, energetic and industrious, and
fair in all his dealings. JOSEPH-STEWART.
Mr. Stewart is a son of J. AV. Stewart, Esq., and AA'as
born in Martinsburg in 1865. His education was limited
to the common schools of his early days, and as a pupil
he ranked among the highest of his classes. He appren
ticed himself at an early age to the butchering business,
under William R. Kline. After remaining Avith Mr.
Kline for some years, and obtaining the advantages of
the trade, he opened up business for himself. His pres
ent place of business is located on Queen street. North
B. & O. R. R. crossing, where fresh meats of all kinds
are kept constantly on hand. Mr. Stewart is yet a young
man— energetic, genial and Industrious, and will give
general satisfaction to all who may favor him with their
patronage.

426 BlograpJiy of Business Men.
EMMERT & FIERY.
Mr. B. F. Fiery, the senior member of this firm, is a
native of AVashington County, Md., and was born in
1830. He commenced business at FunkstoAvn, Md., in
1864, where for nearly eight years he was engaged in
merchandizing. About the year 1872 he came to Mar
tinsburg and enaged in business with Samuel Emmert,
father of the present F. S. Emmert. The firm continued
a successful business for nearly six years, when F. S.
purchased his father's interest.
Mr. F. S. Emmert, of the present firm. Is also a native
of AVashington County, Md., and was born about the
year 1852. He came to Martinsburg in 1872, and remained
under the old firm until 1878, when he purchased his
father's entire interest.
Since the present firm has been constituted It has en
joyed a reputable and successful buslnfess. From 1878
they occupied, for a period of nearly nine years, the
room now used by Frank Doll & Co., and on account of
the increasing demands of their trade they Avere com
pelled to secure larger quarters. In the spring of 1887
they purchased the site adjoining the Market House, and
in the fall moved into one of the largest and finest build
ings in the State. Through their untiring energy and
business zeal they noAV own and occupy the most credita
ble building in the city. It is a handsome brick struc
ture of three stories, modern plan, and conveniently ar
ranged with steam, gas, lights and many other improve
ments. The dimensions of their store room are 100 feet
deep by 23 feet wide, and is elegantly finished. Their
specialties consist In part of dry goods, ladies' wraps,
dress goods, carpets, &c. Everything in this line can bq
had at their place, and Avith their motto, "good goods
and low prices," they will guarantee satisfaction to the
trade. This firm Is an old established one of an excellent
reputation, and their past record will insure a successful
future. Both gentlemen are among the popular, enter-

BlograpJiy of Business Men. 427
prising citizens of the county, and are interested in va
rious enterprises. J. H. MILLER & SONS.
Messrs. J. William and C. A. Miller, the enterprising
managers of this firm, are sons of J. H. Miller, Esq., and
were born respectively in the years 1858 and 1863, in
Hedgesville, Berkeley County. The common school of
their day was the only advantage obtained for an educa
tion. The greater portion of their time was given to
mercantile pursuits,, and under their father's instruction
they received a gejieral and thorough business knoAvl-
edge. In 1886 they entered the mercantile business,
purchasing the large warehouse they now occupy, and
supplying it with a large stock of agricultural imple
ments. Through a well deserved integrity they have
succeeded in establishing one of the most reputa"ble and
successful houses in the city. Their trade daily increased
until now, by additions to their stock, they are handling
a large line of improved agricultural implements, fertil
izers, buggies, phaetons, sulkies, harness, coal, Avood,
feed, etc. Their location is on North Queen street, at B.
& O. R. R. crossing, Avhere the lowest possible figures and
reasonable inducements are offered to purchasers. These
gentlemen are energetic and abreast of the times, and
by their perseverance will push their trade to the highest
degree of success, which they justly merit and deserve.
Both are popular in the county, courteous and obliging,
and are held in the highest esteem by their people.
A. M. GILBERT.
Mr. Gilbert represents one of Martinsburg's indus
trious and enterprising young men. He is a native of
Middleway, AV. Va., and was born In 1859. His father,
John Gilbert, Esq., is among the successful farmers of
Jefferson County. Arthur Avas given the advantage of a
good education, and at an early age entered the drug
business under AVm. Dorsey, Esq., where he remained
several years. Here he applied himself to every branch

428 BiograpJiy of Business Men.
of the business, gaining a thorough knowledge of phar
macy and business tact. In April, 1883, he entered busi
ness for himself, at his present location, on corner of
Queen and Race streets, where he has built up an exten
sive trade. By steady application to business he has
made a grand success and gained an excellent and wide
reputation. Mr. Gilbert is yet a young man, sociable
and agreeable, and one with whom it is a pleasure to deal.
He possesses the necessary energy and vim so essential
for a successful business, and from present prospects he
is destined to make his mark in the drug business. At
his place can be found at all times and at reasonable fig
ures everything kept in a first-class drug store. For
compounding prescriptions he has but few, if any, su-
superlors. p. C. HUNTER.
Mr. Hunter, well-known throughout business circles,
is a native of AVhite Hall, Baltimore County, Md., and
Avas born in 1844. He received his education in the pub
lic schools of that county, and Avas raised on a farm.
Hardly had he arrived at the age of 16 years when his
father, P. G. Hunter, Esq., died. This threw a great
responsibility upon the young man — managing the affairs
of a large farm and family of younger children. Pos
sessing self-confidence and vim, he heeded It not, and in
a short while found himself at the helm of success. At
the age of 28 years hewent under the instructions of Mr.
Henry Pollock, the leading photographer of Baltimore
city. After mastering his chosen profession in its vari
ous branches, he launched out for himself, and entered
business in Baltimore in 1872. In April, 1881, he moved
to Martinsburg, and opened up a first- class photograph
gallery, Avhere he now enjoys the success of a reliable
and wide reputation. His past business career has been
a grand success, and by steady application he intends to
surpass his rivals in the future. Mr. Hunter is agreeable,
sociable, and an industrious gentleman. He Is an adapt

BiograpJiy of Business Men. 429
in portraiture in all its branches, such as oil, pastel,
crayon, India ink and Avater colors, in various styles
and sizes. His present Tocatlon is on Queen street, three
doors South of Market House.
•JOHN FELLER.
Mr. Feller, the genial and clever proprietor of the
"Academy of Music" and an energetic citizen, is a native
of Hessen, Germany, and Avas born in 1820. He Avas edu
cated in the schools of that place, and emigrated to
America in 1844. In 1855 he located at Martinsburg,
and entered the mercantile business. In this he was
very successful for a number of years, when he disposed
of Ms business and built the hotel, known as the Shen
andoah House, corner Race and Queen streets. He con
tinued in the hotel business for a period of about 16
years, gaining a popular and well- deserved reputation.
About the year 1858 he built the large and commodious
hall, knoAvn as "Feller's Hall," on the same site. In
1879 the hall was burned down, and afterwards rebuilt.
However, at this time, Martinsburg contained no public
hall or building of any importance, and consequently Mr.
Feller, in erecting a building of this kind, met with the
approval of the general public. In 1887 the increasing
demands for a larger and better hall, caused him to en
large and remodel the building in elegant style. An
addition of 40 feet was added, making it 100x44 feet in
dimension. The building is of two large stories, with a
double entrance, and contains all the modern conveni
ences and improvements. It is handsomely frescoed,
well ventilated, elegantly lighted with gas, heated by
steam, and comfortably furnished. It contains a stage
22x37 feet, arranged with fine scenery, and well lighted.
The name of the hall has since been changed, and now
enjoys a wide and established reputation, known as the
" Academy of Music." This hall is conceded to be one
of the flnest in the State, and is ably supported by the
general public. Mr. Feller is well known as an energetic.

480 BiograpJiy of Business Men.
clever and obliging gentleman, and is very popular
among the people of his county especially.
L. A. L. DAY, M. D.,
Homeopathlst, Martinsburg, AA^. A''a. — Office near the
Presbyterian Church, makes the treatment of Chronic
Diseases a specialty.
Doctor Day is a graduate of Pulte Homeopathic Medi
cal College, Cincinnati, Ohio, graduating first in his
class, receiving the Faculty Prize, a gold medal, and
also the first Clinical Prize for passing the best clinical
examination. In 1797 Hahnemann, the founder of Homeopathy, an
nounced the principle which has made him famous.
Although it has been received with derision by a vast
majority of the medical world, it has steadily progressed
in favor, overcoming obstacle after obstacle, until to-day
the system of medicine founded upon it, numbers among
its patrons and steadfast friends a large proportion of
the more intelligent and cultivated of each community.
It Is recognized in some of our universities. Our State
Boards of Health are in part composed of Homeopa-
thists. Some of our state institutions are controlled by
them. Homeopathy is the system of medicine in unison Avith
Nature's Law, based on the law of similars, indicating
that the drug to be curative must be given to the sick
for symptoms similar to those produced' by the drug on
the healthy person, the motto of which is Similia Slmili-
bus Curantur. The progress of Homeopathy has been
very rapid considering the prejudice with Avhich It has
had to battle. Ninety-one years have elapsed since
Hahnemann promulgated his discovery, that which has
made him so honored by the millions of suffering hu
manity. A law that has caused the greatest revolution
ever before or since in the history of medicine. The
progress has been so rapid that it is practiced in every
portion of the civilized world, and at home here in the

BiograpJiy of Business Men. 431
United States. Although it is but about sixty-five years
since Dr. Gramm, the first Homeopathic Physician,
first settled in New York— and to-day we have eleven
Homeopathic medical colleges, one Ophthalmic and Oto-
logical college, 17 Periodicals, 43 Homeopathic Hospitals,
26 State Medical Societies, 99 county societies, 48 free
dispensaries, probably 10,000 Homeopathic Physicians,
and patronized by the hundreds of thousands. The
printed literature of the Homeopathic school is number
ed by the millions of pages.
Isopathy is a system of medicine, the law of which is
often mistaken by many as being the Homeopathic law.
The Isopathic law is the prescribing of a medicine for
the cure of a disease that was caused by the same medi
cine. For example, if a man is poisoned by arsenic he
will be given more arsenic to cure him. The homeo
pathlst, in treating such conditions avIII give an emetic
and proper antidotes. This is based on chemistry and
can only be treated chemically.
Accessory treatment is that branch of therapeutics
Avhich is not medicinal, and people must not think that
this treatment belongs to any school of medicine, for they
are based on chemistry, physiology, hygiene and mechan
ics. Mechanical or operative surgery and obstetrics are
the same and do not belong to any system. Let this fact
be remembered, that homeopathy differs only from other
systems of medicine in '^medicinal treatment. Many have
the small dose of homeopathy as an objection to the sys
tem, which varying from drop doses of the pure tincture
to portions of a drop or grain at frequent intervals, thus
avoiding the sickening, weakening and grave physiologi
cal effects produced by medicine Avhen given in large
doses. "How does so small a dose act?" it is asked.
" How does a large dose act ? " Neither can be explained,
for it cannot be told how they act. AVho can tell how
the miasm, an unseen infiuence, the product of decay, or
putrefaction of animal or vegetable substance pro-

432 Blogro.,pJiy of Business Men.
duces intermittent fever, (the so-called malaria,) or
the Infinitesimal germs too small to be seen with the
microscope, yet a fruitful source of disease ; or who can
tell how the child inherits the much-to-be-dreaded scrof
ula, or the tendency for consumption from a parent? Yet
such Is known to be the fact in many instances, but it
cannot be explained like the first question. How does
the small dose act? or many other facts in science.
The small dose has cured and is curing where the large
one utterly fails. Under the observation of a conscien
tious, intelligent and devoted class of physicians the
dose needs no defense, for it is established beyond con
tradiction both in theory and practice.
In disease the small dose of medicine will assist na
ture, because nature is trying to remove the cause of
disease from the system, therefore the homeopathic
remedy, by assisting her efforts, removes the disease,
where the larger dose of medicine will weaken the
system and thus retard recovery. The healthy eye can
endure a very bright light, while the diseased eye will
have to be protected, showing that it takes a far less
quantity of medicine to have an effect on the diseased
body than on the healthy, because the one acts in unison
with nature's law, while the other acts contrary.
THOMPSON & TABLER.
Mr. James F. Thompson, senior member of the above
well-known firm, was born in Martinsburg, AV. Va.,
(then Virginia,) September 15th, 1859. He is the eldest
of the thirteen children of Samuel J. and Sallie Thomp
son—a quiet, industrious couple. AVhen the war closed
and the school system was in its incipiency, James en
tered the old Third Ward School, on John street, and
began to drink deep at the fountain of knowledge. He
was naturally a bright boy, but Ms father's family was a
large one, and rather than throw the entire burthen of its
support upon him, James worked hard during the sum
mer months and studied earnestly and late during the

Biography of Business Men. 483
long winter nights, — laying the foundation of a good
business and general education. He was ambitious^
however, and soon left Martinsburg to work with his un
cle, Jno. W. Dalgarn, in the office of the Spirit of Jef
ferson, at Charlestown. Here, for over three years he
worked at odds, steadily advancing from "devil" to com
positor and assistant editor, and winning a splendid
reputation for business qualities, earnestness and sobriety ,
and making numerous influential friends. But he loved
old Martinsburg — the scene of his boyhood, the hope of
his future. Once more, working hard and persistingly
for a livelihood in the humblest spheres of labor, (but
still attending the Grammar School during the winter,)
he won the commendation and esteem of the watchful
public of his native town. His energy and determina
tion were not lost sight of by business men. When
Louis Bouton opened his large store at the noAV Berry
stand, young Thompson was employed by him. A hard
man Avith whom to get along, Ja,mes retained his position,
while old clerks' went out and new ones came in every
month. He remained with Mr. Bouton about two years
and a-half. Then Mr. H. N. Deatrick obtained his ser
vices. "Jim" -stood up to his new avocation, and sodn
became the leading salesman in town. Persons knew he
would not deceive them. He remained with Mr. Deat
rick until he closed out his stock, after which he sought
more suitable quarters and went in with Mr. David
Weil, in the clothing business, occupying the confiden
tial position of manager of the store in the Staley Build
ing. By dint of carefulness and push, he advanced in
the estimation of Mr. Weil to such an extent, that in one
year he held a partnership in the business. His success
was phenominal. Soon afterwards Mr. Weil retired, and
James, or "Jim" as the boys familiarly call Mm, con
tinued the business, taking in as a partner Mr. M. G.
Tabler, a clerk under the old firm, and a pushing, watch
ful young gentleman. These two worked up an enor-

434 Biography of Business Men.
mous trade. Their quarters grew too small, and the
stocks was removed to their present handsome location
in the Homrich building, on Queen street, where pros
perity has followed them. Mr. Thompson is a self-made
man — the success he enjoys is the result of years of at-
tentiveness and toil. No man in Martinsburg has an
equal knowledge of all the details of the clothing busi
ness. He seems to be a part of the business. He is a
good judge of material ; has a quick insight into the
markets, — knows when to recommend, — keeps the best
makes of clothing, and treats poor and rich with equal
courtesy and attention. "Can't" is a word not to be
found in his dictionary ; and business tact is a family
trait. With the spheres of his usefulness ever widen
ing, he enjoys the confidence of the entire community,
and lends a helping hand to every laudable enterprise.
He was mainly instrumental in establishing the celebra
ted See Chair Factory here, and when the company went
out of organization, in company with Messrs. H. C. Berry
and Dr. L. A. L. Day, he purchased the business, and
will spare no means or time to push it to activity and
paying advantage. Mr. Thompson was married to Miss
Minnie S. Ray, of Shepherdstown, on February 28th,
1888, and now resides on West King street, in one of the
DeGrange buildings.
Mr. M. G. Tabler, the junior member of the firm of
Thompson & Tabler, is the eldest son of James W. and
Amelia Tabler, of Berkeley County. His father is an
enterprising and thrifty farmer, and instilled within the
very being of his son, the essence of thrift and push that
made his own life so successful. Mayberry was born
November 8th, 1862, in the neighborhood of Darkesville,
and spent the days of his early manhood on his father's
farm. But he felt that his sphere of usefulness was too
limited on the farm, and when eighteen years old, came
to Martinsburg and entered the Berkeley Academy.
Here he applied himself diligently for two years, winning

BlograpJiy of Business Men. 435
the esteem of Prof. Dieffenderfer, and going to the front
in his class. His teacher said: "Tabler had an origi
nality of conception, an acute insight, was energetic and
attentive, and had every indication of possessing the
essentials going to make up a good business man." He
was quiet and industrious, watchful of the small things,
and thorough in his work. After leaving the Academy,
he entered the services of Mr. D. AVeil, then conducting
a flourishing clothing business in the Staley building.
Here he met Mr. Jas. F. Thompson, and formed those
mutual ties of confidence and friendship which finally
united the tAVo young men in the business they now so
successfully pursue. Mr. Tabler Is careful and honest.
His face is an index of his character, and a warrant from
him, as to the quality of goods, is as good as gold. Being
a young man and possessing a large circle of acquain
tances, he has done much to make the business of the
firm stable and permanent. The country people feel that
in him they can depend. Under the careful training of
his more experienced partner, and possessing natural
qualifications for the business, he has developed into a
safe and careful salesman, and an efficient business man.
None complain of his dealings. Having made, moulded
and fashioned his own character, winning his deservedly
popular name of " fair dealer," he goes on quietly in the
even tenor of his wa,y, contented to see his patronage
increasing and his customers satisfied.
The business of the firm is steadily increasing. The
store room is one mass of handsome novelties, fine suits,
and the general concomitants of the business. Conduct
ing a large "made to order" feature with the well-known
firm of M. Friedman & Sons, of Baltimore, Md., the suits
they turn out are perfect in fit and material. Theirs is
undoubtedly the soundest and best trade in town. Sat
isfaction always follows the sales, and their patronage is
not limited to counties, states or ages. The growtl\ oi

436 Biography of Business Men.
the business is the result of the old saying : " By indus
try, true worth thrives." CHARLES H. BOWERS.
Mr. Bowers, one of Martinsburg' s enterprlzing citizens
and business men, is a son of Jno. A. Bowers, Esq., and
was born in Martinsburg in 1857. He received his educa
tion at the common schools of his day, and in 1872 enter
ed the B. & O. R. R. machine shops as an apprentice,
where he remained four years — serving the required
time and acquitting himself creditably. Shortly after
ward he was called to Garrett City, Indiana, where he
commanded an excellent position in the B. & O. shops.
After remaining about one year, he was compelled to
leave on account of ill health, and returned to the shops
at this city. In 1885 he established himself in the
merchandise business on North Queen Street, and has
continued to the present day. Jlis store occupies the en
tire floors of a two-story building, Avherein an enormous
stock of goods is kept and a successfull business trans
acted. His stock consists of staple and fancy goods,
groceries, canned meats, flsh, fruit, vegetables, imported
and domestic pickles, sauces, choice teas, coffees and
spices, relishes and other condiments and delicacies, in
fact all the necessaries and luxuries of the table, as well
as the latest novilties in the dry goods line, including
the most popular dress patterns, imported and domestic
hosiery, underwear, ladies and gentlemen's furnishings,
trimmings, embroideries, sewing materials, white goods
and notions. His present location is on North Queen
Street, near B. & 0. R. R. crossing. Mr. Bowers is a
shrewd business man, energetic and industrious, and of a
genial and clever disposition. He takes considerable
interest in various enterprises, and has won the respect
and esteem of his people.
HANSON T. MORROW.
Mr. Morrow, one of Hedgesville' s enterprising and
energetic business men, is a native of Jefferson County,

Biography of Business Men. 437
is a son of James W. Morrow, Esq., and Avas born in
the year 1846. His advantages for an education were
those offered by the common school of his day. ^t an
early age he entered the milling business under his
father, and remained for a period of about seven years.
Afterward he returned to school, attending during the
winter season and milling during the summer months.
In 1864 he entered the military company under Captain
Robt. Baylor, in Company "B," 12th Regiment, Vir
ginia Cavalry, and. served until the close of the war, a
period of about one year. After the war he followed the
pursuit of farming for about two years, when he entered
the silversmith business under Wm. Johnson, of Fred
erick, Md. Here he remained two years and gained
every advantage offered in the business. In the spring
of 1887 he opened up in Hedgesville, and from that date
has continued until the j)resent day in a successful busi
ness. His present location is on Main street, and con
veniently arranged for the benefit of the general public.
Mr. Morrow first opened in the silversmith business and
afterwards added the saddler business, repairing of ma
chinery and sale of flour and feed. In his trades he is a
skilled workman of talent and energy, and is doing a
thriving business. Considerable amount of repairing on
jewelry, watches, etc. , is sent him from the larger cities.
Mr. Morrow can well be termed a self-made man, and as
an industrious and clever gentleman, holds the highest
respect and esteem of Ms people.
SAMUEL W. HOPEWELL, (COL.)
Mr. Hopewell represents one of the energetic, clever
and industrious colored citizens of Martinsburg. He is
a native of Jefferson County, W. Va., and was born at
Shepherdstown, December, 17th, 1826. He was a son of
Henry Hopewell, Esq., who was well known throughout
Jefferson County for his sobriety and uprightness.
During Samuel's early days the advantage for an educa
tion was very limited with his race, and consequently he

438 Biography of Business Men.
obtained no other learning than that given him by his
friends. He was employed on a farm, where he remain
ed for nearly twenty years, and made many warm friends.
He afterward acted as a caterer and carried on barbering
for a number of years. During the late war, in 1863, he
was conscripted by the Eastern Maryland Regiment-
However he served but a short while, and was exempted
from service on account of ill health. He then returned
to Martinsburg, from which place he went to St. Louis,
Mo., and remained until after the surrender at Rich
mond. Mr. Hopewell is well known throughout the
community, and takes an active part in business affairs.
With his race he stands high in their estimation, and
has won the respect of a large circle of acquaintances.
During the past twenty years he has successfully follow
ed barbering, and continues at the present day on East
Martin Street. As a tonsorial artist he cannot be sur
passed in hair cutting, shampooning, dying and shaving.
He employs two skilled workmen regularly, and has his
shop conveniently arranged.

APPENDIX.

SKETCH OF

^ HENRY SHEPHERD, ESQ.,ix>

OF --

SHEPHERDSTOWN, JEFFERSON COUNTY, WEST YA,

WITH THE HISTORY OF

-Mc WILD GOOSE FARM. *<-

HENRY SHEPHERD, ESQ.

THE REWARD OF ENERGY AND INDUSTRY A
GRAND SUCCESS.

^^ lN/i:..<ft^<3-2:TI2^IC:E:3SrT COTJISTTI^-H- SE..ftL.T.

WILD GOOSE FARM.

AN ELEGANT RESIDENCE, SURROUNDED BY WELL CULTI
VATED AND IMPROVED LANDS AND
MODERN STRUCTURES.
gNE of the most attractive country seats in the East
ern portion of our Mountain State, is the time
honored manor of the well-known Shepherd Estate, four
miles North of Shepherdstown, in Jefferson County.
Looking out from a gently reclining hill, on the pic
turesque Potomac, with Its varied and beautiful scenery,
this old Virginia Homestead is one of those well remem
bered resorts, which in ante-bellum days were the pride
and boast of the people of the South.
This part was then owned by the late Mr. R. D. Shep
herd, a wealthy and distinguished member of the family,
by whom it was christened "Wild Goose Farm."
This magniflcent estate, AvhIch altogether embraces
about a thousand acres of the most fertile and productive
land in this section of the country, has since been pur
chased by Mr. "Henry Shepherd, who is its present owner,
and by whom it has been greatly improved, especially
that portion upon which he and his family reside, and
which he calls his Upper Farm.
Passing up a long avenue of Avell groAvn and carefully

442 Henry SJiepJierd, Esq.
selected forest trees — beech, linden, maple and others-
we approach the mansion. Here on a knoll, embowered
'mid a profusion of waving willows, stately poplars, and
quaking aspens, stands the residence, built in a quad
rangular shape, with two extended wings — a pretentious
frame structure of a comparatively modern architecture.
To some it may not seem effectively grand, but around"
it is woven a web of early family history, of intense in
terest to the living representatives of an aristocratic an
cestry, long since passed away.
We enter through a Gothic porch, a spacious hall,
leading to the parlors, which are simply but richly fur
nished — skillfully reflecting mirrors and choice paintings
adding to the pleasing effect.
The library, adjoining, is a most unique and hand
somely furnished room, and the dining and bed-rooms in
elegance and taste correspond with the parlor and library.
From a wide piazza, in a lovely window in front, we
look down upon a miniature lake, on which sport the
graceful swan, lordly geese and countless Muscovies.
A view of the garden presents a happy blending of the
useful and ornamental — real vegetable gardening deco
rated. In fact, an observing eye will see at a glance over
the surrounding grounds, beds, mounds and terraces,
vines, shrubbery and arbors, that Mr. Shepherd exhibits
the same fondness for embellishment, garden, park and
landscape, as do the English people of fortune and cul
ture. From the dwelling a fine gravelly Avalk leads down to
the dairy and spring, while northward two white shelly
roadways wind around a diamond-shaped centre plat,
converging at the barn.
The stable§, in which the well-bred driving horses
stand, are constructed after the best models, and the
mangers furnished with the latest contrivances for safe
feeding. The carriage room, with oiled fioor, is equipped with

Henry SJiepJierd, Esq. 443
barouches, iDhtetons, falling tops and village carts, while
the room connecting exhibits a fine display of harness,
most admirably arranged, — altogether affording the ma
terial for several handsome turnouts.
Around the stables are a number of fox and rabbit
cages, while near by howl a pack of anxious hounds,
ready for the chase — sport in which Mr. S. sometimes
indulges. Across from the stables Is an octagon Japanese Pagoda,
tastefully designed and painted, and surmounted by a gilt
ball, weather cock and wild goose. Here stands the
morning sentinel, who at appointed hours strikes the
bell, giving signal and summons for all the workmen to
repair to labor.
The barn and extended range of stables are planned
and equipped with a view to the greatest convenience
and usefulness.
A long row of painted shedding contains and shelters
the various agricultural implements, all assorted and
kept with the same system and care which mark every
thing about the premises.
Hostlers ard watchmen are constantly on duty about
the barn and stables, taking care of the property and the
large herds of valuable cattle, sheep and hogs — all in
quality and co.ndltion in keeping with the fine order of
things so plainly visible wherever you turn.
Passing down the avenue from Wild Goose you behold
dotted here and there over the farm, a number of modern
style cottages where dwell the workmen in plenty, com
fort and contentment.
Leaving the avenue and entering upon the well known
Shepherd Grade, a mile drive over a fine stretch of wide
level road, long famous as the course upon vvhich the
speed of many a steed Avas tried in other days, and you
arrive at another branch of the Shepherd Homestead,
noAv known as the Lower Farm.
This was the life-long residence of Mr. Henry Shep-

444 Henry Shepherd, Esq.
herd, Sr., the father of the present owner and proprietor,
as also that of the grandfather, Capt. Abram Shepherd,
who, in the language of a memorial by an eminent di
vine of Virginia, "served with distinction in the Revo
lutionary War under Col. Hugh Stephenson. He
marched with his company from Shepherdstown to.Bos-
ton, in July, 1775, and in March, 1776, returned to Noav
York. He was in the celebrated battle of King' s Bridge,
Nov. 16th, 1776, and after Col. Rawlings and Major Otho
H. Williams, of Maryland, were wounded, he com
manded the Rifle Regiment of Maryland and Virginia
during the remainder of the action. He received a letter
from Gen. Washington but two months before the Gen
eral's death, speaking of him as a valuable officer in the
Revolutionary War."
Here is a unique and queeiTy constructed large stone
mansion, built more than a century ago, and while Mr.
S. is making many improvements in the surroundings,
including barns, stables and other buildings, yet the
main dwelling itself is preserved, unoccupied by any
one, in its original state, and its internal arrangement
and much of the old time furniture still kept intact, even
the old desk and arm chair and huge inkstand remain as
left by his father, in marked contrast with the too com
mon spirit of the day, which soon loses attachment for
old landmarks, and in the desire for change entirely ob
literates them.
Situated on a beautiful incline, shaded by tall oaks
• and hardy locusts, its white Avails look out in their vir
gin purity from amid the drooping foliage, giving an air
and appearance of some ancient castle, but its chief glory
Is storied rather in traditions and memory of a venerated
ancestry than in the architectural beauty or symmetry
of the structure.
Such is a fair, modest description of the Shepherd es
tates, as will be fully realized by any one visiting this
beautiful country seat, in which is centered the most

Henry SJiepherd, Es.q. 445
hallowed associations and cherished recollections of a
historic family.
But this sketch would be incomplete without at least
a brief notice of the individual characteristics of both
the founder of Wild Goose Farm, the late Mr. R. D.
Shepherd, and the present owner of the combined estates
described, Mr. Henry Shepherd.
• The former, Mr. R. D. Shepherd, was one of those re
markable characters, embodying in one individual to a
rare degree a number of those positive qualities that
make men great. He was strong in intellect, rigid in
system, firm and inflexible in conviction, of uncompro
mising integrity and extraordinary executive ability.
Still, he was generous and kind-hearted, distributing
large sums of money among those of his kin whom he
deemed worthy, and hardly any of them can be named
who have not at some time or some way shared his be
neficence and gratuities. As a friend and adviser he was
frank, honest and valued, and > this reputation is not
merely local. Residing at different periods of his life in
Baltimore, Boston and New Orleans, his record is every-
Avhere the same, and the implmit confidence he enjoyed
and universal respect he commanded, wherever known,
will long remain as the indisputable evidence of a pure
and unimpeachable character. He retired in the later
years of Ms life, after an active, useful and successful
career, to the place of his nativity. Wild Goose Farm,
where he died in November, 1865.
The present Mr. Shepherd possesses. In large degree,
the qualities and characteristics which distinguished his
uncle, R. D. Shepherd, with the advantage in his favor
of the many advances of the age in which he lives.
He is a gentleman of culture and refinement, recognized
public spirit and generosity, strict system and order at
the same time, liberal and kind, and especially so to the
poor. Like hosts of Southerners, he Avas crushed financially

446 Henry Shepherd, Esq.
by the war, but with a business capacity that rebounds
from reverses and overcomes them unaided, and by the
force alone of his own energies, he has recuperated his
fortunes and risen again to the comforts of plenty.
A recent business incident Avell deserves special men
tion. Instances are rare where men who once complete
ly failed ever afterwards pay their creditors anything.
Such cases', when they do occur, afford the highest stand
ard of personal credit. Mr. Shepherd is one of the very
few entitled to this honorable rank. Although his own
failure was entirely caused by that of others — purely
Avrecks of the war — yet after the years of earnest effort
by which he regained means, as soon as able and without
realizing anything from those who are still largely in
debted to him, and though his debts were long since
legally barred, he voluntarily, and at a cost of a large
sum — many thousands of dollars— paid and settled to
the entire satisfaction of all his creditors. To-day he
stands fully acquitted and discharged of all financial ob
ligations whatever, a promised source of much future
comfort and satisfaction amid the reflections of his re
tired life.
The true measure of the man In character and capacity,
in heart and intellect, is best shown by Ms career in life
— the struggles he has survived, the success attained, and
the position of prominence and influence and respect
which he still enjoys in the community in which he
lives. The past prestige and memory of the Shepherd family
and estates are being well preserved and maintained, and
will be creditably and honorably perpetuated and trans
mitted to posterity by the present worthy representative
and proprietor, Mr. Henry Shepherd.
THE SHEPHERD FAMILY.
Mr. Henry Shepherd, the subject of this sketch, mar
ried Miss Azemia McLean, a daughter of Mr. AVm.
James McLean, one of the most prominent and success-

Henry Shepherd, Esq. 447
ful merchants in the city of New Orleans. As a result
of this union they have been blessed with four sons,
bearing the names of R. D. Shepherd, Henry Shepherd,
Jr., Wm. J. and Augustus M. The two eldest were
educated at the leading schools in this country, and
have chosen occupations suitable to their refined and
cultivated tastes ; and the two youngest, Wm. J. and
Augustus M., are now at college.
MR. R. D. SHEPHERD.
Has adopted the stage profession, under the nom de
plume of "R. D. McLean," in honor of his accomplished
and singularly giftad mother. The press pronounces
the highest encomiums upon his theatrical talent, and
predicts for him the brightest future. He has already been
classed among the leading tragedians, and in proof of
this we append the following criticism from the New
Orleans Democrat, one of the leading journals of the
South, which is complimentary in the highest degree.
Mr. R. D. McLean has accomplishments rarely found,
which fit him for the stage, and he voluntarily left Ms
magnificent home in order that he might gratify this
laudible ambition. He is possessed of a splendid physique
and is a superb gentleman in the full sense of the term.
Thus it will be seen that the members of this historic
family are aspiring to and filling positions of honor and
trust, which is a source of unaffected consolation to their
father, Mr. Henry Shepherd, who has stimulated his
children by example and precept to honorable endeavor,
and has been in a position to gratify their every wish.
Such in brief is the history of this remarkable family
and of their vast estate, known as Wild Goose Farm.
The New Orleans Democrats&js of R.-D. McLean :
"It has given great satisfaction to our Avhole commun
ity, who take a natural and justifiable pride in the
achievements of our native sons, to read the many elo
quent encomiums of the dramatic art and accomplishment
of our young tragedian, R. D. McLean, which have ap-

448 Henry SJiepherd, Esq.
peared in the newspapers of all the cities and toAvns in
which he has filled engagements.
His dramatic tour, beginning August 15th, last, has
embraced the states of Louisiana, Texas, Georgia, Ala
bama and Mississippi. In the principal towns in these
States there has been one uniform concurrence of opinion
and criticism in assigning to him the leading position
on the American stage as a tragedian and artist.
With his remarkable natural endowments, physical
and mental, and an innate histrionic tendency, all that
was needed to develop in him all the qualities of a his-
trion of the highest class Avas the practice and training
through which he has just passed, in the two years dur
ing which he has so zealously pursued his onward and
upAvard course in the profession which he adopted with
great personal sacrifice, but with an unextinguished af
fection and inexhaustible devotion.
Even in straight-laced Philadelphia, the tributes every
where paid to Mr. McLean's achievements in his art
throughout the South have been fully indorsed and con
firmed by the able and appreciative journals of that
city. Thus, that most sedate and conservative of journals,
the Philadelphia Inquirer, of May 8th,|.describes our
young tragedian's appearance in that refined and cultur
ed city :
The Philadelphia Inquirer of May 8th says : "The
production of 'Ingomar' at the Arch Street Theatre last
evening Avas the opening of the engagement of the tAvo
eminent artists. Miss Marie Prescott and R. D. McLean.
Unusual interest was centered in the performance owing
to the fact that it Avas the first opportunity which the
Philadelphia dramatic public has had of seeing the
latter of the two stars, and Miss Prescott had not been
seen here for an unfortunately long time. In selecting
'Ingomar' for the initial performance the stars were
happy in the choice of a drama in which they made a

Henry ShepJierd, Esq. 449
thoroughly enjoyable and strong dramatic representa
tion. Mr. McLean is an actor of the most robust and
manly pattern, of commanding physique and natural
grace. His voice is powerf-al, deep-toned, resonant, and
musical, and capable of every modulation and inflection
with which to add strength to the romantic impersona
tion of the love -tamed, love- civilized barbarian, Ingomar.
In voice and bearing he has every natural fundamental
qualification for a tragedian, and his attainments shoAv
such a cultivation of the powers in his command as to
leave no doubt about his possession of dramatic talent
of the highest order. It would be vain to personify hy-
percriticism to attempt to find fault with a characteriza
tion which in every respect received such careful and
pains-taking treatment as that which ¦ Mr. McLean has
bestowed upon his romantic role. In every line and ac
tion he portrayed the true disposition of the barbarian,
whose coarse nature underwent the rapid process of
civilization through the influence of his hostage."
Another leading journal of the same city thus speaks
of Mr. McLean's masterly delineation of Shylock :
"The delineation of Shylock by Mr. R. "D. McLean last
night at the Arch Street Theatre was especially powerful
and impressive. He invested the character with neAv
and telling points and became most intense at times In
the representation. Instead of the beetle-browed, com
mon, tricky and abhorrent Israelite of the slums, Mr.
McLean's Shylock was a Joav of intellectuality, bitter
and Intense in his hatred of Antonio, not as a personali
ty, but as the representative of Christian sects, who had
stolen his daughter and his ducats and from time im
memorial had persecuted his forefathers, stigmatized
and scorned them. Mr. McLean was especially powerful
in the scene which finds its climax in the Avords. "But
I will not eat with you, drink Avith you or pray with
you." His glorification when he learns of Bessanio's
misfortune, finding expression in the sentence, "I thank

450 Henry SJiepJierd, Esq.
God for this news," was followed by a paroxysm of exul
tant laughter, intense in its hatred and bitterness. He
clutches the air in his wild glee as he bade Tubal "Go^
and meet me at the synagogue" to thank God that the
pound of fiesh was to be his. He Avas called several
times before* the curtain. Miss Prescott made an im
pressive Portia, but her modulations often led to inaudi
bility, and she should tone her voice on a higher plane.
All the other characters were well taken. This evening
¦"Pygmalion" and "Galatea" and "Taming of the
ShreAv." In a lighter and more graphic style the Sunday News
gives the following sketch of our young tragedian :
' 'Jumping from a real estate office to depicting Brutus
and his stentorian dialogue on a professional stage, isn't
much of a jump for R. D. McLean. The rest of us, I
opine, may not be able to so successfully and similarly
jump. It was from pleasant H. Grattan Donnelly that I first
had the idea that the mantle of a great artist and actor
Is pretty certain to fall upon the broad shoulders of
young McLean. Then I witnessed his Ingomar and
Brutus and I fell into Donnelly's way of thinking.
The career of this new comer — for his is that to a cer
tainty — is full of interest. Two years ago he made his
initial bow on a professional stage at Kingston, N. Y.
Three years ago and he did not know a professional
actor. First the leading support to Miss Marie Prescott,
and this year staring equally with her and coming an
entire stranger to Philadelphia, he meets AvIth remarka
ble press notice and cordial receptions. It is small
cause for wonder if the prognostications of enthusiastic,
kindly H. Grattan Donnelly should come true.
I Avas ushered into the room of the young Roman at
the Continental one day last week, and there had a pleas
ant chat. He was the manager of a leading real estate
firm in New Orleans early in 1887, Avhen Miss Marie

Henry SJiepJierd, Esq. 451
Prescott came to the Crescent City by invitation of the
Crescent City Shakspeare Club, to give a performance of
"Hamlet." McLean was a member of the club, and
played Horatio, this being his first appearance Avith a
professional. Miss Prescott put on "Pygmalion and
Galatea," by request, and Mr. McLean was asked to play
Pygmalion. This he did for seven performances. Later
he received a proposition from Miss Prescott to come to
New York as her leading man, and after many inward
debates and much hesitancy, the young man, then
twenty-seven years of age, accepted.
The study that Mr. McLean has put in can scarcely be
comprehended by the Prompter's readers, but it is a fact
that he had never seen Romeo, Ingomar, Malovlio, Fe-
truchio or similar parts played, and his acting was there
fore his own and based upon ardent study and many
sleepless nights. Once only had he seen Salvini play
Ingomar. Once only he saw McCuUough play in " Vir-
ginius." He has been on the stage for two years, knows
the parts of Shakspearean plays, and that too, thorough
ly. He loves Roman characters, and will devote his best
years only to such parts.
Mr. McLean was born in New Orleans, his father being
Henry Shepherd, Esq., a Virginian, and his mother's
name being McLean. He took the latter name for the
stage. He is a nearer resemblance in physique to John
McCuUough than any actor living, and he has an arm
like a village smithy. He is a trained athlete, can box
like Billy Madden, went for years through regular gym
nastic training, and he is more often boisterous than some
critics like.
" When does the season close?" queried the prompter
as he was taking his departure.
' ' At Chicago, two weeks from uoav, and I will not be
sorry. AVe opened the season August 15th, and have
been at it steadily every since, playing South — Texas,
Mississippi, Georgia, Alabama and Louisiana. AVe have

452 Henry Shepherd^ Esq.
our coming season laid out to cover the very same places.
Where do we rusticate ? I go to Shepherdstown, W. Va.,
Avhere my father still resides, and I shall study and yell
amid the rocks and woods on the farm to my heart's
content. Miss Prescott, I presume, remains In Chicago.
Good day." HENRY SHEPHERD, Jr.
An able assistant and counterpart of his father, in all
that appertains to the successful management of this vast
estate, is the youngest son, Henry Shepherd, Jr. He is
nearing the age of twenty-one years, and has already
developed marked business capacity. His father, after
whom he was named, has given him the general super
vision of his extensive farming operations, and he has
given evidence of his ability to carry out the wishes and
desires of this ideal farmer, Henry Shepherd, Sr.
As a very necessary qualification to the successful
prosecution of his chosen occupation, Henry Shepherd,
Jr. , has familiarized himself with farm . work in every
department, and has a thorough knowledge of the best
methods of raising and developing thorough-breds of all
kinds. Having at this early age exhibited such marked busi
ness capacity, we confidently predict for this- young hus
bandman an honorable and prosperous future — and that
he will prove a worthy successor to his illustrious father.

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