.;^- MEMOIR OF THb Late SAMUEL BREXK, 0itc-|rcsiIieut of t^c |istorical .^ocichr tif |eiinsi)H)aiua. READ BEFORE THE SOCIETY. PHILADELPHIA: Printed for the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, BY KING .■< BAIRD, 607 SANSOM STREET. 1863. MEMOIR OF THE LATE SAiMUEL BRECK, 0itc-|1r«it)cnt ot the llistorical Soridti of |3ennsnll);ruia. READ BEFORE THE SOCIETY, JOSEPH R. INGERSOLL, January 12th, 1863. PHILADELPHIA : KIXG & BAIRD, PRINTERS, 607 SANSOM STREET. 1863. j:riA I 0^ K historical Socittn of |Unnsnll);uua. Philadelphia, Januanj 13, 1863. Sir: At the stated meeting held last evenmg, it was, on motion, unanimously '■'■ Eesolvcd, That the thanks of this Society be " presented to the Hon. J. R. Ingersoll, for the " excellent memoir of our late Vice-President, " Samuel Breck, Esquire, just read, and that a " copy be requested for publication." Very respectfidly and truh', Yours, JOHN JORDAN, Jr., Ilecordiiig Secretary. HOX. J. P. IXGEESOLL. In obc} ing the call with which you have honored me, I can only hope to express sentiments such as those once entertained personally for your departed associate by his friends, and now cherished for his memoiy. The invitation can'ies such a desire natur- ally along vvith it, and its acceptance is a pledge of performance accordingly, not without misgivings as to the satisfactorj' execution of it. One of the effects of a Society lilce yours is the cultivation of closer acquaintance, and hence of mutual good feel- ing and regard. You come together not merely to acquire and diffuse knowledge of a particular kind, but in tlie acquisition and diffusion of it you pro- mote a friendship residting from the joint exercise of a common good. The course of ^Ir. Breck's Life may be regarded for the occasion as having its epitome in this com- panionship ; and while the respect of a whole com- munity has followed him with becoming solemnity to the grave, our especial attention is turned towards him because of an identity of membership. From that position, we are to look beyond, and examine his merits in a wider sphere. Yet the connection gives proper impidse to our claim to eulogize, and explains our moving principle in its utterance as coming from ourselves. Facts are the materials of experience and the basis of science. They arc collected from observa- tion of the present time and acquaintance with the records of the past. It is impossible for a single human capacity to gather, through actual inter- course, however frequent and familiar, with men and things, sufficient stores to supply all the exigen- cies of theory, or any but a small proportion of the ingredients of Wisdom. It looks abroad through the wide world, as it is, and as it has been, and grows wise from the accuniulations of others, according to their various powers and advantages. Space is no limit to its researches which penetrate the mysteries of every element, and seek instruction in its most remote recesses, from the loftiest heights inhabited only by suns and stars, from the depths of the sea and earth, and from the teeming richness of their surface. Even then it has gained but limited acquirements. It must direct its view to the multiplied discoveries and lessons of ages that are gone, rich as they are in abundance, and fruit- ful in generosity. Happily, none of these sources of knowledge, though profound, like everything that is wise, are impenetrable or effectually con- cealed. Geography shows the surface of man's abode within and beyond his possession, and kin- dred sciences teach him what is far from personal reach, though open to successful enquiry. Each preceding age is filled with its own performances, and ready to afford, more or less clearly, instruction concerning them. This may be varied in its scale and character ; yet in every department it has its uses, and all are Avitliin the range of curiosity and research. History is as truly a science as mathematics or astronomy, or chemistry, and it is not less necessary to the culti^■ation of them in unfolding their suc- cessive improvements, than their own innate and persevering pursuits and experiments. History in its largest sense applies to all the facts which fall within the reach of vmiversal experience, — to all the phenomena exhibited in space — and to all the changes which have been effected successively, in time. Our present enquiry is directed, not to the developments of art or the discoveries of science, but to the individual worth and faculties of one among many who desire to trace the progress of events from year to year — from century to century — through the archives of this Society. Biography is next in the order of comprehensive- ness and perhaps of dignity. The term is believed to have been first used by the Abbe Chastelain, canon of the Church of Paris, and author of Uni- versal Martyrology. (^lartyrologe Univcrsel, 1709.) There have been authors at all times who have performed the duty. Among the most distinguished were Plutarch, Avhose " lives," as they are called, are everywhere read with more than historic delight, and Cornelius Nepos. They believed that in a recital, actions perform the part of eloquence in speech. Biography is more limited in its scope than history. It is confined to individual life and character, and has the charm of conversation with 8 more than its accuracy, and it does not discuss, except incidentally, the pretensions of a nation. It traces the actions and illustrates the abilities of remarkable men in public affairs and private con- duct, and it displays their whole lives, political and literary, religious, civil and military. Our present task — mine to speak, and yours, less welcome, I fear, patiently to hear — is of still less extent. It is the memorial of an excellent man, who, after a long and estimable career, has been withdrawn from his sphere of usefulness. It pro- poses, not to detail the events of his entire life, but some of its prominent and characteristic incidents. In this department French literature has been par- ticularly rich. Among the most esteemed are such as were written by those who partook largely them- selves, of the events described by them. Sully and De Retz are familiar names. Of Comines, it is said, that he pictured himself in his memoirs, which are Avritten with an air of grandeur, an impetuosity of genius, and an irregularity of style, Avhich are the image of his conduct. They are often refeiTcd to for knowledge of the things related in them ; and especially for such as adorn the memory, and explain the character of deceased great ones. It was the habit of IMr. Brcck to make minutes or private records largely. A Diary, or body of Recollections, has been left by him, which fills about a dozen closely A\a-itten volumes. With the kindest feelings, he may have feared that occasion- ally something might have been inserted which, 9 unexplained, would savor of unkindncss. Under some such impression, perhaps, the legatee or de- pository of his manuscripts finds from him an injunction to take an early opportunity of examin- ing his Diaries and expunging everything that might give pain to others. With some persons, a feeling of vanity prompts to this habit of self-guided entry of one's o^vn passing events or thoughts. "S'N'alter Scott was inuch of a Diarist from an exuberant mind. Before him, Lord Colchester, long the distinguished speaker, Charles Abbott, of the Britisli House of Commons, constantly made entries of this character half a century ago, which have been published in three octavo volumes. They contain much that is agreeable, and even instructive, concerning the leading men of the time, some of whom, the Broughams and Palmerstons, still appear actively in national affairs. There was no un- becoming vanity or ill will in ]\Ir. Breck's habit. He had many leisure hours, being free from par- ticidar occupations of business, and he passed much time alone. Diarising may have been an amusement as well as an employment ; and the details thus preserved may have furnished him hints and sugges- tions for different productions prepared by him fi-om time to tim(>, for the public eye and ear. A further proof of his professing a fund of useful information ready to be thus appli(-d, is furnished by his having come forward occasionally the voluntary contributor to expressions of public sentiment, without waiting for an in\itation from any qiiarter. 10 In these domestic records lie coidd find, in a shape which he mnst consider as authentic, the basis for opinions and facts which he was wiUing to communicate in discourses and otlier articles written by him. It was a mark of his aniiableness as well as his industry, that he was so often ready to answer to calls from his friends or from societies with which he was connected. His habits and studies, as well as his associations, rendered him apt in compliance with invitations from such quarters. He was a man of reading and letters, and an accomplished amateur artist ; his inclination tended towards historical interest, and his cheerfid anecdotes testified to a retentive memory and quick perception. It Avas not difficult to find abroad and at home models of this kind of composition and narrative ; and the stores and researches he had preserved might be adapted to them in sufficiently easy abundance. Many "Lives," as they were called, appeared in Great Britain during his career of authorship. Such, for example, were Coleridge's Sketches of his own liter- ary life and opinions ; INIoore's Life of Sheridan ; Stapleton's George Canning and his Times ; Twiss's Lord Eldon ; Pcarce's Life of Lord Wellesley, and others. Those that have been found amono- our- selves need not be mentioned, lest any omissions might seem to be invidious. Under a tUfferent form of Go\ernment, an officer has been sustained in Courts, called ]\Iaster of the Memories, Officer of the Palace, Chief Secretary — who made notes of all the actions and remarkable events of the Sovereign. 11 In the introductory notice to one of his pubHc addresses, INIr. Breck informs ns that he spent four years of his school days at a college in France luiiler the administration of Benedictine monks. Before his departure from that country he visited its great capital. A kind temper given to him by nature was here adapted to gentleness and grace of man- ners ; and personal accomplishments must have been almost unconsciously cultivated among those to whom they were then still familiar, under a yet undisturbed government. This was combined Avith the fact, that he found Boston, on his return in 1787, crowded with well educated Frenchmen, driven there by disturbances in vSt. Domingo. It made him still more closely acquainted with the habits and accustomed to the politeness of a people the most polished and refined. The great revolu- tion in France was yet some years ahead. His knowledge was increased by the elegant literature of France, and he is not supposed to have been contanunated by the surrounding tendency to reli- gious scepticism. His deportment naturally assumed a finished air, which did not leave him during his long life. No.ont^ could have known him, however sliglitly, without being struck with these peculi- arities, which were marks of cidti^^ated kindness, without undue affectation. He was a thorough gentleman of the old school — courteous, animated, affable, and kind. The circumstance of his going to a foreign country for education was rendered easy and agreeable by the return thither from Boston of 12 certain military and naval officers. He was sent by his father under the care of some of them for the purpose of being placed in a French seminary. This was, perhaps, the most eifective incident of his life. It produced events and placed him in the way of impressions, and led to familiaiity with persons and places, Avliich were the substantial ingredients of his tlioughts and reflections of his actions. The condition of things at home was such that good education there was scarcely possible. Sooner or later, in some way or other, it was to be sought elsewhere. Extreme youth was in this instance somewhat of an objection to going abroad, before Avhat might be regarded suitable experience, but it rendered his susceptibilities the keener, and the impressions to be made on mind and body would be deeper and more permanent. A college in France Avas determined on by the fomily, and the first suitable opportunity for sending him was embraced, in the care of persons of standing. On the 24th of December, 1782, being then eleven years and six months old, he was embarked in the frigate Iris, INIarquis De Traverse, Commander, who was directed by the Admiral to take him into his own cabin. An officer in Rochambeau's army, who was returning to France, whose home at Toulouse was only four-and-twenty miles from the selected College, undertook to see him safely tliere. The French Admiral had recommended the CoUege of Soreze, in Lower Languedoc, and accompanied the 13 recommendation with letters to the Very Reverend Dom Despanlx, the Principal, and others. With these incidents, the scheme was undertaken which was to launch him in extreme youth upon the ocean of life, subject to its thousand perils, which couLl not be foreseen. It may have con- tributed to his independence of feeling and conduct afterwards that he was thus left without parents, relations, or tried friends near him, to the dangers of temptation. A cordial reception awaited him at the College, and he describes himself as having entered upon his studies with a light heart and contented mind. The opportunities for instruction were good. Lay teachers of much ability assisted the Monks, and taught everything fitted to give a solid educa- tion, intermixed with all the variety of ornamental and pleasing instruction. Tlius, besides the ancient and modern languages, and exact sciences, drawing, music, dancing, riding, fencing, military exercise, &c., were a part of the pupil's daily occupation. It would have been strange if accomphshments had not been acquired by them. It is a proof that he became thus endowed at this Seminary, that his education in reality began and ended there. It was pursued no further either abroad or at home. A mind sufficiently intelligent, industry and application sufficiently faithfiil, and a disposition sufficiently ambitious, were all kept in order and employment by a moral principle and rectitude that appear to have been his guardians at 14 all times. Habits of occupation were formed which were always afterwards ready for exercise. All exercise or rather indulgence of them was a plea- sure and a pride. While tliey brought him know- ledge, they made it easy for him to impart its fruits on suitable occasions in after life. AVith such companionship as he liad, and instruc- tion necessarily tinctured with particular religious tendencies, his feelings became imbued accordingly. He records the course of his conversion to this effect. His good maternal grandmother, who belonged to the old Colonial and intolerant sect of Presbyterians, refused to kiss him, and reluctantly gave him her blessing when he left home, because he was going to a Popish country. Without the smallest effort on the part of the Monks to turn him from the religion of his fathers, but by the ad\ ice of an intimate friend, he addressed himself to the Superior and asked for a Confessor. He was advised to pause and take a week to reflect on the subject. He did so, ^vithout any change of opinion, and a Monk was named, to whom he regularly confessed until he left college. He happened to be at Lyons on Easter-Sunday, and being then a good lloman Catholic, he attended Mass, confessed and communicated. This more than tendency to stray from Protestantism was given up not long after he was at home, and he records in 1789 that his "zeal for the Pope's Church has cooled off, and he was now again a Protestant." He lived and died a communicant of the Episcopal Clmrch. He was temperate and abstemious, e^en when drink- 15 ing was a foshionable %-ice ; and he took care himself to be free from every kind of dissipation. For some time his journal abroad was kept in French, by his friend Dom Crozal, whom he calls his Excellent Governor; with whom he did not quite agree in the admiration of Paris. At Havre this person left him, having been his companion during a journey of two months' duration, and about 800 miles distance. The worthy Monk was parted with, the journal says, A\ith gratitude for his uniform kind- ness and suitable protection, " which was neither irksome by rigid superintendence, nor lax by inat- tention." At Lyons the landlord, perhaps impressed with his good appearance and manners, complimented him with the title of Marquis, which was modestly regarded as a civil traveling title merely, and it was by Mr. Breck, as a good republican, declined. He embarked at Ha\re in one of the monthly packets which the French government had estab- lished in imitation of the English. Among the passengers was Paul Jones, the celebrated sea-cap- tain, then an Admiral in the Russian service, and wearing several crosses at his button-holes. Our friend does not seem to have brought home with him the most favorable impressions of external France generally. A want of cleanliness was con- spicuous to him ratlicr than the splendor which is usually the admiration of strangers. After an absence of four years and a half, he reached his native town of Boston, on the 2d of 16 July, 1787, spcaldng English with the accent of a foreigner. He liad not been long at home, when his flither, find- ing him inclined to become a merchant, engaged a place in a counting-house, for which one hundred gui- neas were paid to the merchant. He continued with him until 1790. The lessons taught in this counting- house in reference to trade, he declares " were of the most innnoral character, owing chiefly to the dis- turbed and feeble state of the old confederative governnicnt and in execution of the revenue laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. On the arrival of a vessel, one-half the cargo was placed in the upper part of the store, and the other half only entered at the Custom-house ; and thus they were initiated into the secret of smuggling." "To ask one hundred guineas of young gentlemen" he says, "educated in honorable principles, to teach them low fraud and disreputable course of trade, showed the times to be sadly out of joint." "The laws were a dead letter; the States, collectively and individually, were bank- rupt ; the public debts at ten or twelve dollars for a hundred! Each State was pulling against the other; and the fruit of our seven years' war for indepen- dence did not then appear to be worth gathering.'' This melancholy state of tilings did not last long. It was eifectually changed by the wisdom of our fathers. He regarded relief as atforded in 1789 by the adoption of what he styles the present excellent constitution, which " carried" he says, " this great nation, in the course of forty years, from a fearful 17 state of poverty and disorder, to higli station and unrivalled prosperity. " Mr. Breck went to Europe a second time in 1790, and returned in 1791. He was then twenty years old. His father gave him a capital of ten tliousand dollars, and told him to commence merchant -with that sum. He did so successfully, and continued to be a merchant for se^'eral years. His name is in the Philadelphia Directory of 1794:-5, Merchant, South "Water, below "Walnut street. In 1792 his father's family removed to Philadelphia as their permanent residence. He mentions a circumstance which shows that habits of a certain kind have since in Europe and this country, grown strangely upon us. In traveling through Princeton two passengers were received in tlie stage — one of whom was a student of the college. He had a segar in his mouth, and this, !Mr. Breck declares, was the first he ever saw. The cause of the removal of the family from Boston, is stated in the " Recollections." A system of taxation, the most iniquitous imaginable, he says, came out in Boston, which drove, by its injustice, from the town, several of its richest inhabitants. " After rating an inhabitant for watch where there were no watchmen ; for lighting streets where there were no lamps ; for municipal regidations in general, where there was almost an entire absence of police — they put down under the head of Faculty, just what they pleased, — guessing this man to be worth so much, and that other so much — thus laying a heavy 18 tax upon him who Hvcd Hberally, and spent his income among his fellow-townsmen in acts of hospi tality to them and to strangers, while the rich miser who kept his money out of circtilation, was deemed poor, and scarcely taxed at all." If this be a correct picture of things seventy years ago, it has long since ceased to be so. There is now, by universal consent, no place more agreeable and active than Boston. Its literature is distinguished, and its social condition is refined. The father and mother of Mr. Breck, finding no redress to be had, and having visited Philadelphia recently, concluded to remove to that city, which was the seat of the Federal government, and pos- sessed, they believed, the most refined society in the Union. Its climate too was regarded as more moderate than that of Boston, and they had been entertained there, they thought, with universal kind- ness and hospitality. Orders were given to purchase a house, and as soon as the purchase was made, the family was transplanted from its native town, and they never regretted the remo"\al. The whole of our taxes, say the " Recollections," were fifty-five dollars — being just about tlie amcnuit of the Boston collectors' commissions in that town. The family left Boston in September, 1792, and oru" associate followed them in December. AVhile every thing wore a smiling welcome, there was in store a great calamity for their adopted city. They were scarcely settled there when, in July, 1793, the Yelloiij Ftvcr broke out, and soon spreading rapidly, obliged all the citizens who could remove 19 to seek safety in the country. The counting-liousc of our friend was near Walnut street whaif — a fiital neighborhood. He records the hoiTors of this memo- rable affliction as extensive and lieart-rending. It passed away with the frosts of Autumn, and the city regained its cheerfuhicss with health. The place of residence of the fomily was on the north side of Market street, (Xo. 319,) mid-way between Eighth and Ninth streets. Nothing can be more complete than the change in this part of the to\A-n. It is now the chosen place of active business. A domestic house, or mere family abode is rare, and scarcely seen. Wholesale and retail business is actively carried on. Private residences are singular. It ^^■^ll scarcely be credited by those who are now in early or middle life, that this was a most fashionable neighborhood. Now, almost aU are devoted to acti^-e business, Avhich were then the abodes of wealth and trancpiil enjoyment. Families occupied almost all of the houses — some of them beinsr the homes of bachelors of wealth, equally devoted to the display of elegance. The north-west corner of ]Markct and Ninth streets was held by such a gentleman. A custom prevailed to make the pavement along the north side of the street a resort on Sunday afternoons and evenings, of gay and well dressed persons, male and female ; not less crowded than a -visitor at Paris is struck Avith seeing in the neighborhood of the Bois de Boulogne. At that period the south-eastern part of the to-rni, which has undergone a change, Avas also especially a fashionable place of abode. The theatre 20 still stands in South street, on the south side, above Fourth street, but its occupation and use are of a different kind, being transformed into a respectable distillery. He wrote to a friend in 1854, that he had seen assembled at his father's of an evening, in a social way, the three Princes of Orleans, one of whom became King Louis Philipe; TallejTand, and his inseparable companion, Beaumez, Volney, and, he thinks, the Duke of Liancourt, and many other distingmshed French noblemen, emigrants — such as Talon, a jurist of great eminence in the Parliamen- tary Courts of Louis XVI. Xo one now living here probably, carries with him a recollection and impres- sion of such royal and high-bred companionship at home. The foreigners themselves, and all of their personal friends in Philadelphia, are, it may be supposed, now no more. Comparisons with foreign statesmen and philosophers must have tended to stimidate or assuage domestic ambition, and suggest errors to be corrected, or defects to be supplied — or, it may be, motives for contentment anil national pride. AU of the friends of Mr. Breck describe him as of an affectionate temper, a generous and unselfish dis- position, on which many claims Avcre made ; fond of social intercourse and of liabitual cheerfulness and vivacity of spirit and carriage. His feelings of kind- ness found exercise, especially towards children. He visited for many years, according to the rector of his church, the " Parish schools," with frequency and TOth the most lively interest ; and by the spright- 21 lincss and bonijjnity of his mannor, completely won the hearts of all the pupils, who looked forward to the day of his coming as to a holiday. " I cannot be mistaken," he proceeds, " in pronoimcing liim a man of warm aftections. There is a law of reciprocity governing this matter which is, I think, universal. A man so well beloved of all who knew him, must have a loving heart himself." One of his best public efforts was a discourse before the Society of the Sons of New Enirland, of the City and County of Philadelphia, on the history of the early settlement of their country. It breathes a spirit of filial aff'ection for his fither's birth-place and his own. "While it extenuates no former errors of bigotry or prejudice, and explains the subsequent absence of them, with better knowledge of the world and lapse of time. Many off'ences had been made capital which are not so by the laws of England. " It was," says he, " a bloody code, rigidly earned out for many years, and led to sanguinary executions in their after history. The rigid construction" he adds, " put by our earlier ancestors on the Indian code, leaves them liable, I may think, to the imputation in some things, of dark prejudice and obstinate bigotry." Such, he acknowledges was the state of intolerance at an early day, when toleration had been called a crime. But persecution, he assures us, had long since ceased when he returned amonij them. Not a vestise of it remained. " Puritan jealousy and intolerance had whoUy disappeared." It is well known to us of the present day here and everj" where, that liberal 90 education succeeded, which has been prolific in its fruits. C'olleges are multiplied, and scholars are instructed there who give freely their acquirements to the country and the world. No one now asks, "who reads an American book'?" with Prescott's histories in his hand. He was at one time a member of the regiment of Macpherson's Blues, composed of a large number of young men of this city and neighborliood. From a memorandum in his diary, he seems to have with- drawn from this corps. He writes that he came to town to unite himself once more to INIcPherson's Blues, rather than submit to the call which he had received to muster with the mihtia ; but General Macphcrson had informed him that the President had never accepted their tender of services made in the preceding- July or August, — tendered in the event of a war with England. He was a member of the 18th Congress, from 1823 to 1825. While there the choice of President came before that body, on the failure of an election by the people. ]\Ir. Breck on that eventfid occasion, alone of all the Pennsylvania delegation, voted for John Quincy Adams — every one of his colleagues voting for General Andrew Jackson. Mr. Adams told him that, although he knew his vote could not be operative on account of the votes being given by States, yet he felt more anxious about it than about any other. Mr. Breck replied, that his vote was given both to satisfy his judgment and to gratify his feelings. 23 The friends of Mr. Breck bclie^•e that he never had what could be properly called a quarrel. His tendencies were pacific. But in tliis point he resembled a great man ^vl^ose business was war. Tlie Duke of Wellington more than once in the course his correspondence, declares that lie never quarreled with any man in his life. Our friend became a member of this Society in 1825, and has always manifested a deep interest, and even taken an active one in its concerns — furnishing occasionally valuable materials for its records. It were anxiously to be wished that more of its asso- ciates could indidge a like disposition. The very existence of the body was once threatened by indif- ference on the part of many; and it was preserved mainly by the zealous interposition of Mr. Breck. A proposition haAing been made to dissolve the Society, he addressed a letter to Mr. John Vaughan, expres- sive of much solicitude and direct argument against tlie measure. In this letter he enclosed a list of members, and expresses himself thus : " You will see tliat the deaths arc 22 ; the resic-nations 55, and the number remaining as members is 53. Perliaps several of those who have resigned, may be induced to rejoin. At any rate, even with our present number, there is no occasion to dissolve or to think of any such thing. Should you be of this opinion, please to return me the list after conferring with Mr. Lea- rning. I will draw up a report upon the subject." March 15th, 1838. The late Peter Stephen Duponceau, a man of dis- 24 tinguislied learning, refers to this circumstance in his will, dated 1839, with much interest. "The Historical Society of Pennsylvania" lie says, " is in danger of perishing for want of support. AVliile almost every other State has an Historical Society, shall it be said that Pennsylvania wants oneT' " Science and literature are the glory of a State ; canals and railroads are perishable. The noble aqueducts, temples, and roads of the Greeks and Romans have perished, but their literary fame will last forever." Let this be clierished and observed as the legacy of a dying friend. If a tendency of this kind should again occur, it will arise, not from any deficiency in the nature of the association, or means of wide-spread usefiUuess, but in the want of zeal and fellowship, only too con- picuous. An apartment of more easy access would perhaps, be valuable; but frequent and friendly intercouse is indispensable. Let this spirit of mem- bership be borne in mind. Let every one be present at the regular meetings Avlien not otherwise particu- larly engaged ; and let him visit the room at least once or twice a week, and remember that other Institutions of the same name in different parts of the country are active, and in their works conspic- uous. Much matter has been accunudated here. It would be ungratefid to many liberal donors and a reproach to existing membership, if it should be suifered to perish. A portion of Mr. Brcck's library Avas bequeathed by him to the Historical Society. Tills, although not large, should remind us of a s 25 bcqiipst of great liberality and magnitude, wliich awaits circumstances and time for its fulfilment. But it nmst be met by corresponding preparations on the part of the Society, which should be at all times in progress, or the hope, liowever ardent and possibly substantial, may entirely fail. You must have a temple fit to receive the offering, or the offering will never come. He was a Trustee of the University of Pennsyl- vania, and in the Board of Directors of the Philadel- phia, Wilmington and Baltimore Railroad Company, and a member of the Common Council. He was especially attached to the Institution for the Blind, which he assisted to found, and was long the Presi- dent. That Society was indebted to him for several discourses full of good feehng and just sentiment. Among these was a sketch of the benevolent services of the late Jacob G. Morris, in 1854: In the same year a short biography of llobert M. Patterson ; and in 1857 an address to the Pupils of the Institution of the Blind, at the distribution of the New Testa- ment and Book of Psalms, bequeathed by Miss Sarah Stille. Besides other Reports, he made one especially on the foundation of a ' Home for the industrious bUnd, which was carried into effect by the Managers. This Society was one of the objectsof his testamentary bounty. Soon after the attack on Fort Sumter, he was at a concert of the Pupils of this Institution, and occupied a seat on the platform. He here availed liimself of an opportunity, as he had done on former occasions, to manifest his deep interest in the cAcnts 26 that have been crowded into the months elapsed since the opening of the Southern rebellion. At the close of the concert a call was made for the " Star Spangled Banner," and it was sung with great spirit. At the last chorus Mr. Breck sprang up in A'iew of the audience, (about 700 persons,) and waving his hat over his head, called for three cheers for " the Union and the Constitution, one and indivisible" adding, " I was a man when they were formed, and God forbid that I should live to witness their down- fall." The cheers were given with three times three, to the great wonderment of tlie blind pupils, who knew not what it all meant. This relation is given by a gentleman who was present. His "Recollections" are styled those of "Samuel Breck, Sweet Briar, in the township of Philadelphia, State of Pennsylvania, removed to the city of I'hila- delphia in December 1835 ; having resided at Sweet Briar about tlurty-eight years." This would carry back his establishment there to the year 179 7, having previously resided in the city for more than five consecutive years. It was during a part of tliat time that he had been a member of Macpherson's Blues, Avhich fine regiment of volunteer infantry was col- lected for the purpose of opposing the AVhisky Insurrection, as it was called, in the interior of the State. He was married to the daughter of Mr. John Ross, a highly respectable merchant, in the latter part of 1795, December 24 th. She died in November 1859, at the age of 86. Sweet Briar was a charming spot, a short distance from town on the west bank of 27 the ScliU} Ikill. He represents, as tlic natural result of his residence in the country, a fondness for read- ins: of almost every kind relatinc; to farminrnal impro\ements already made by Pennsylvania, mth observations upon her physical and fiscal means for their extension, particularly as they have reference to the future growth and prosperity of Philadelpliia ; illustrated by a map of the State of Pennsylvania This pamplilet soon passed through two editions, the second dated in 1818. It is distinguished by an ardent spirit of patriotism and attachment to the city and State. He refers with pride to " the inexhaus- tible resources of the future prosperity of Pennsyl- vania." He dwells too, upon her ha\ing ever maintained the highest credit in money-matters ; and adds : " her credit is now unbounded ; she has always been jealous of it, and will never run the least liazard of putting it in jeopardy." (Note, page 24.) How far this prediction may have been at all times literally confirmed, might be subject to question under the unfriendly criticism of Sydney Smith and others in England. We may rc\st satisfied at least with the belief that it has been fairly redeemed. The laudable object of his pamphlet Mr. Breck declares to be two- fold: First, to endeavor to vindicate the aspersed 28 reputation of Pennsylvania from the general accusa- tion of indifference Avitli regard to her internal improvements; and secondly, to show the superior situation of Philadelphia, geographically considered, for the attraction of the great and increasing trade of the counties bordering on the Susquehanna, the Lakes and the Western rivers. The name of Harris must be regarded as a historic one. It is that of the State Capital, and of the founder of the seat of government of Pennsylvania — the first white child born to the west of C'onewago creek, and the first person of European origin that settled on the spot where now stands the town of Hamsburg. In the bosom of this wilderness a niimber of Indians once called on him for an additional supply of spirituous liquor. On his refusing to gratif^' them, they drag-ged him from his hut and bound him to the mulberry tree, at the foot of which, by liis own direction, he now Lies buried. There they declared they meant to biu'n him alive. Ury wood was gathered, and a fire held in readiness to kindle it. The yells of the savages echoed along the shore, while with demoniac gestures, they danced around their victim. The fire was brought to tlie pile and about being applied, when a baud of friendly Indians burst from the woods and set lum at liberty. These Indians were led on by a negro man named Hercules, a sla^e belonging to Mr. Harris, who, at the first alarm, ran to a neighboring tribe to beg for succor, and now brought it to his master's relief This narrative was, under the title of an Historical Anecdote of Mr. \ r 29 John Harris, Scur., prepared by Mr. Breck, and communicated February 21st, 182T, at a meeting of the Council of the Historical Society. It is not intended to criticise or minutely review the different productions of om- venerable associate. They were always kindly expressed, and, like his o^^^l personal address, sufficiently studied and agree- able, and full of intelligence. A favorite tlieme appears to have been the Ufe and character of those with whom he had enjoyed semi- official or individual intercourse. On the 20th of September, 1828, one of these was dehvered byliim as Vice President, before the Blockley and Merion Agricidtural Society, on the death of their late Pre- sident, Judge Peters. It is worthy of remark, that in the first sentence he expresses a hope to be excused for offering, of his own accord, to make the address. As the second officer of the Society himself, he regarded it as in some measure his duty to notice the melancholy event. He proceeds to detail Avith good feeling and in happy language, a variety of facts which enabled him to portray the subject of his dis- course, "as a patriot, a legislator, a jurist, a firmer, and a man in social life." He adds : " As a husband, a parent, a neighbor, a sincere christian, there was in reference to Judge Peters but one voice. Every one united in praising his religious and domestic Airtues." Mr. Breck has preserved in the diary which was commenced as such June 13th, 1800,a printed speech dehvered by liim in the Senate of Pennsylvania, in 30 February, 1821, " on the total abolition of slavery in Pennsylvania." In May, 1843, a historical sketch of Continental paper money was presented by him to the American Philosophical Society. He takes occasion here to vindicate the time in which he was writing, from the allegation of liavino; declined in moral worth ; of having chshonored, by cumiing and crime, the cause of republicanism, and disgraced the good name which their Revolutionary fathers have established and transmitted. He states that extravagant speculations in land and operations in stock, with ruinous conse- quences, had formerly prevailed : that Lotteries had been an universal expedient for raising money ; that politics had exhibited infinitely more violence, more marked separation in social life, and more vindent hatred: that temperance has succeeded greatly to mtemperance ; and that in religion, the most impres- sive and salutary reform has taken place. At the period of our Revolution he insists, the superstition and cruelty of witchcraft were only passing away, to be succeeded by religious indifference and rank infi- delity. The people collectively, had now become more sober in their habits, and more serious in the worship of God ; and they would find those plague- spots which continue to disfigure their moral character gi-adually removed by the joint influence of tempe- rance and religion. One distinctive mark of refined civilization, he adds, has been allowed to form a national trait by universal consent, abroad and at home, namely, the deference paid to woman. 31 "NMicn a member of the Senate of Pennsyh-ania, in Marcli, 1833, he made a report as cue of a com- mittee, shomng that an error in the census had been conmiittcd by the marshals in returning an increase of 21 1 slaves in 18-20, to 386 in 1830 ; whereas there had been, as at all former times, a large decrease. The State was thus exonerated from the stigma of fostering in her bosom, as woidd appear b}- the census, a nursery of slaves. He was long President of the Athenanun, and delivered an address at the laying of the corner- stone of the new hall, November 1st, 1845. In the 6th volume of the Collections of this Society, (p. 392,) is found a lecture, voluntarily read by :\Ir. Breck, on the Hfe of George Whitefield. He here relates the well known anecdote told by Frank- lin: "I happened, says he, to attend one of his (AVhitfield's), sermons, in the coiu'se of which I per- ceived he intended to finish with a collection, and I silently resolved he should get nothing from me. I had in my pocket a handful of copper money, tlu"ee or four sdver dollars, and five pistoles in gold. As he proceeded I began to sQfteu, and concluded to give the copper. Another stroke of his oratory made me ashamed of that, and determined me to give the silver ; and he finished so admirably, that I emptied my pocket wholly into the collector's dish, gold and all." The habit of diarising enabled .Mr. Breck to turn readily to such persons of historic name as he regarded somewhat similar in power to "Whitefield. He speaks of another miracle of 32 eloquence in Martin Luther ; of INIelanctlion as suited to chasten the vehemence, and even Adolence of the great Reformer ; of Calvin, with learning various and profound ; of John Knox and his stormy and eventful life. Then passing " from the rude and boisterous scenes of Scotland to the polished and gorgeous halls of Louis XIV., from the gloom of HoljTood House to the fairy land of Versailles," he finds Fcnelon, Bossuct, Bourdaloue and ]\Iassillon. The name of Breck is an old English word, derived from the Saxon. It is found in the dictionary of a hundred years ago, although even there marked obsolete. It is interpreted a Bruise, or a gap in a hedge. It is uncommon even as a name, and used only as such at the present day. During the last few years he was amusing himself in microscopical in\cstigations, and in procuring various objects connected with them. Tliis is one of the many proofs of his fondness for occupation, and that he was never idle. This disposition never seemed to abate, but grew with his lengthened years. He was enabled to perform much mental exercise by the enjoyment of a remarkable degree of health and "vigor. In 1836, we are told, he was interested, Avith three other gentlemen, in promoting the manufacture of sugar from the beet root. He was himself one of the publishing committee of the Society which had been formed for that purpose. He records himself at one time when living in the country, occupied with Latin and other studies. His daughter, and only surviving child at the time 33 of her loss, was born June 1st, 1807, and died in early yonth, Jnly, 1828. Mr. Breck records that she died in his arras. He commnnicates in a letter to his sister, Jidy '27th, 1828, Avliat he terms this most afflictive news. " Thus," he -RTitcs, " is my great hold on this earth dissolved ; and she whose future comfort and happiness was my great study, and a source of anxious thought, is snatched from me. No worldly transaction of mine took place that had not reference to that dear child's fixture life. I am now without solicitude, it is true ; but I am also without her society, her companion- ship, and 1 may add, without her counsel, Avhich was generally the dictate of good sense and mature judg- ment." In another letter to his sister, dated Septem- ber 18th, 1828, he ^^Tites: " One subject is forever uppermost in my thoughts. It seems often as if I took a melancholy pleasure in nourishing grief. In spite of myself, I ha^•e her before my mind's eje in my solitary walks, * * * until the last sad week of her existence rushes on my mind, and makes, by its most painfid recollection, my heart move within me. An effort to shut the whole scene out follows, and succeeds for a time, when the dear image recurs again, and so twenty times a day. But I trust time will weaken, without wholly obliterating, these sad recollections." Mr. Breck was born July 17th, 1771, and died August 31st, 1862, having reached the age of ninety-one years, one month and fourteen day.s. This could not be considered antediluvian, but it was greatly prolonged. Infancy, youth, manhood, matu- 3 " 34 rity and old age — all had been his. The period of three score years and ten, generally looked upon as a limit, and far beyond the a\crage duration, was passed when a generation of time was still in reserve for him. A rare instance is sometimes published, equal to, or even greater, than this. But how few have witnessed it within the circle of their friends'? In all the stages of human existence he seems to have received marks of approbation and kindness suited to his years. It appears to be well authenti- cated that he witnessed, from his female attendant's arms, that proud memorial of American heroism and prelude to independence, the battle of Bunker HiU. Tliis circumstance is mentioned by himself in his " IlecoUections," Avliere he declares that he feels himself identified with the Revolution, having been nursed at Lexington, wliere, as he says, the first blood was spilt ; and he was an unconscious spectator of the great battle of Bunker's IlilL Would it be fanciful to suppose that this event, which took place the 17th of June, 1775, could have had an inspiring iniiuence on the mind of one who was so mere a child 1. He was then three years and eleven months old. There may have been lively though vague impressions, which as he grew up, were frequently renewed and strengthened ; and a laudable pride felt in this early occurrence, may have given force to his patriotism, which was constitu- tional. At a stated meeting of the Historical Society on the 8th of September last, the Recording Secretary 35 informed the meeting of the loss recently sustained in the death of one of its Vice Presidents, the ^ene- rable Samuel Breck. An announcement is also made in the No. of the " Xew England Historical and Genealogical Register and Antiquarian Journal" of Boston, just received. Among the deaths is the following : " Hon. Samuel Breck, of Philadelphia, corres- ponding Secretary. The latter was one of the Honorary Vice-Presidents of the Society, in the prosperity of which he took great interest. He was 91 years of age, being the oldest member of the Society at the time of his death." It was soon felt that something more was due from you than the mere solemn mention by one of your members, of his decease. The impretcnding notice now submitted by the request of the Society, is a tribute in compliance willingly devoted to merit wdaich is more highly appreciated, as it is more completely understood. During nearly the whole of his long life, he enjoyed health of body and mind, and this has been regarded the greatest blessing that can be received, just as the greatest treasure is said to be a true friend. He required little professional medical attention probably at any time, and certainly for the six years immediately preceding the spring of 1861. He had labored, however, for a lew years, under a liability to some difficulty of the heart, particularly 'vhen under the least mental excitement. In the month of April, 1861. he had a chill and fever, 36 resulting in a paroxysm of intermittent. This was succeeded the next day by a return of his usual health. At the expiration of three weelcs he had another similar attack, followed as before, by a return of health ; and thus, every three weeks there was a paroxysm of intermittent fever, lasting only one day. About this time a circumstance occurretl which was fully indicative of his characteristic disposition. A recital of it will not be deemed out of place. An early education among pious and learned men in France, under papal authority, which has been stated, left impressions which seem never to have forsaken liim. They kept his thoughts and pen at work after he had entered his ninety-fir^t year. The residt was the composition of a manuscript and artistic volume of considerable size, which he styles an abridged history of the 45 Popes, the latest of whom was Celestin the first, A. D. 423. On the title page is written "Tableau Synoptique des Papes, Depuis Saint Pierre Jusqu'a Pius IX." Time was not left him to complete the work, as he died soon after tliis volume was finished. It begins with St. Peter, the first Bishop of Rome, "A. D., 1, Tiberius, Claudius, Caligula and Nero, Emperors." To each one of the Popes is devoted a page, containing an engraved likeness. Tliese likenesses are embellished in suc- cession with different handsome and tastefid drawings by Mr. Breck himself, with artistic skill. They are variously and richly adorned. The whole worlc speaks with cmpliasis for the tendency of the autlior to be always in occupation, and to be occupied in 37 seeking and giving instruction. He had much Roman history to look into. He had also his natural kind feelings to gratify in the disposition of the book. It is presented witli a most amiable manuscript dedica- tion, as it may be called, to the accomplished dauglitcrs of one of the gentlemen who became his executors. The wliole ^•olume is written in a clear good pen- mansliip. In addressing the young ladies he says : '• In my old age I have amused myself by ^\Titing in this book an abridged history of the forty-five first Popes, beginning with St. Peter. Their portraits are placed at the head of each historical narrative, with a framing Aaried according to my fancy, and drawn by my own hand in 1860. As I possess the portraits of all the successors of those in this volume, down to the present Pope, Pius IX, inclusive, I am, in another -volume, continuing the compendium of each one in the same concise manner as those now oft'ered for your acceptance, and which is designed to accompany this gift, should a merciful ProAidence allow me to finisli it. Your afi"ectionate and aged friend, SAM'L. BRECK.* *Since this "memoir" was publicly read, it has been made known to me that Mr. Breck unexpectedly became possessed of the materials for his History of the Popes. He saw, one day, in a shop a large sheet covered with the heads of the Popes, each .about the size of a dollar. This he purchased. Then his eyes rested on a History of the Popes, and he turned over in his mind the poss.iblity of making some use of the sheet in connection with the History. He purchased the book and procured a bhink book from the stationer; leaving Ihe shop fully equipped for his work, and made enquiry as to the authority of the author. For the execution of the work he cut off one of the heads and 38 Mr. Brock's character may be summed up in a few words, with some danger of repetition. lie was cor- rect in deportment and honorable in conduct; of amiable temper and lively and affectionate feelings ; quick in perception, and of tenacious memory and sound judgment ; industrious when he had any thing particularly to do, and looking out for it when he had not ; of strict punctuality ; a good christian and husband, father, neighbor and friend, and a patriotic citizen ; domestic in habit and temperate in living — yet well inclined to social intercourse. His Avill had been executed in due form, imder the date of March 1st, 18G0. A codicil, dated 1861, July JjOth, was prepared, it would seem, while these intermittent attacks were in progress. They admon- ished him perhaps, of the necessity of putting his house in order. This codicil, like the original -will, was written by himself It sets forth that the alterations are made in sundry legacies " on account of the great change in our national affairs, Avhich having occa- sioned a depreciation in property by an enormous increase of taxation and prostration of business, may materially diminish the value of my estate." It proceeds to reduce several legacies of the will, and revokes the cash legacies of $300 each for the Phil- pasted it near the top of the page. He then read the Iiistory of the Pope cai-efuUy, and condensed the principal facts into li.ilf a page. Tliis, I am now assured, was the beginning and the ending of his researches. It was received from his own lips by a friend and near relation, wlio has communicated it to me, with a suggestion that the name of tlie author of tlie History sliould be iilaced in a foot note. The work is "A Complete History of the Popes of Rome from, &(.-., trans- lated from the French of Louis Marie De Cormenin." c 39 atlclpliia Athcntrum and the rcnnsylvania Historical Societ}^ ; while the bequests of books to those insti- tutions are confirmed. This three weeks' intermittent continued until the succeeding winter. As cold weatlier supervened, it left him; but it was followed by other symptoms, evidently the precursor of the disease wliich termi- nated his life. These continued to annoy him luitil the 21st of August, 1862. On the evening of that day he expressed a desire to see his physician, and complained of great languor and fotigue, and general malaise. The next morning he was found on the floor in a lielpless condition, and his whole left side was in a state of paralysis. He continued to grow worse until the 31st of August, andbreatlicd his last at 12 o'clock of that day. During this last illness his mind did not cease to be active ; and generally it was quite rational, appearing to be fully aware of all that transpired around him. His length of life and tranquillity of departure from it, may be in a great degree imputed to an amiable disposition. He was warmly attached to his friends, and his sympathy for the afflicted was most kind and active. These details have been now somewhat minutely stated, with a view to exhiljit an example of the probable end of a life so kindly occu- pied, after its tranquil and benevolent course ended. Both may be made, happily, the subjects of successful imitation. A pious spirit however seems to have chiefly aided him in his departing hours. He had habitually 40 manifested a more than common respect, wliicli was real and devout, for religion and its institutions and practices. For many years he had been a commu- nicant at St. Luke's Episcopal Cliurch ; he was an active member of the Vestry, and at all times present at the meetings ; and he persevered in his attendance on public worship. lie was visited, at liis own request after his fatal attack, by a distinguished clergyman, and expressed to him with great clearness, his trust in his Saviour, and his readiness to depart. He desired prayers to be offered, wishing the attendance of all the family, and specifying the prayer for the sick on the point of departure. His utterance was imperfect, but all was calm and clear. It is attested by one Avho knew him best in this respect, that his piety did not render him morose or severe in manner, but just chastened the natural gaiety of his disposition into a beautiful and most attractive cheerfulness. He was hvcly and buoyant, and retained an interest in passing events it may be literally said, to the day of his death. After he was stricken Avitli paralysis and one hand was entirely dis- abled, his patriotism was still manifested. On learning from a friend some cheering news respecting his beloved country, he raised his eyes and his hand in an attitude of prayer and thanksgiving, and moved his yet remaining vigorous hand above his head, and waved it three times around ; — a silent but cheering expression of his joy. The medical gentlemen who attended him, also informs us that the ardor of his patriotism was extinguished only by death. SIjc IJistorical Socictir of |1fnnsiift;iiii;t. The want of a Historical Society of Pennsylvania lias been felt for generations. Although, however, various ^ thoughtful and patriotic individuals have taken means to preserve records of the Colony and State, a snfhcient combination was not formed to achieve this purpose in an effectual manner, till December 2, lb2i ; whicli point, therefore, dates as the origin of the present association. At an earlier period, and during the colonial condi- tion of the settlement, extensive records were kept by J, more than one religious body ; and a constant intercourse with England kept Pennsylvania as much before the public mind as it may have been thought to deserve ; while, at an after moment, the writings of Voltaire and other imaginative authors, may perhaps have made the . infant combination so noted as to do awaj- with anv urgency for a history so obscure and remote. The Picvo- lutionary war involved interests on a larger scale, and was connected by many with theoretical views of the rights and destinies of the human race at large : and the (juiet settlement in a vast forest, became, in comparison, an object of but little attention. When the war was over, and men had time to breathe from the involvement of great interests and from despe- rate struggles, calmer minds soon recollected the neces- sity of more adequate means for the presei-vation of records. Then it was found that impediment aro.^e from, the divergency of views and habits. Impressions remain- ing from military and political struggles, and existing differences of religious opinions and feelings, were bard to reconcile in a common labour until the period we have mentioned. The names of the memhers present at the inaugura- tion meeting were Roberts Vaux, Stephen Duncan, Thomas I. Wharton, William Rawle, Jr., Dr. Benjamin H. Coates, Dr. Caspar Wistar, and George Washington Smith. It was well understood that the late eminent William Eawle, senior, and John F. Watson, though personally absent, were to be considered as present; and they are therei'ore in the category of foundation menr- bers. Several other gentlemen gave their attendance at the jjreliminary conferences, and, it is believed, at some of the regular meetings, the minutes of which are not preserved. At the first annual election, held February 28, 1825, the Society, which had hitherto appointed Roberts Vaux as chairman, filled the j^lace of President with the late William Rawle, senior ; and the Vice Presidents were Roberts Vaux and Thomas Duncan, the Corresponding Secretary, Daniel B. Smith, and the Recording Secretary, G. Washington Smith. On the ISth of May, the Council, under the constitution, held its first meeting. In this body, besides the names already given, we find those of Dr. Thomas C. James, W^illiam Rawle, junior, Thomas H. White, Dr. Samuel Jackson, (Professor,) William Mason Walmsley, and Gerard Ralston. On the Sd of October, 1825, ten committees were appointed, containing many names, to report, with deliberation,, on as many subdivisions into which an examination of the historical records of Pennsylvania were supposed to be naturally divided. Some of these committees reported ; but a larger number omitted to do so, although the inquiries thus set on foot gave rise to some subsequent papers. In December, 1825, the publication of tlie Memoirs was commenced. Most of these -were newly compiled essays, Avith some orations, all intended to introduce the respective subjects ; but the volumes included a few original documents. They were continued till 1840, in four volumes. In 1845-1848, a volume was issued under the title of " Bulletin ;" and, after the formation of the Publication Fund, the Memoirs were resumed, with an enlarged page and in a finer style, by fifth, sixth and seventh volumes, as far as 1860. Of later years, with the growth of Philadelphia, and by the exertions of active and influential members, the magnitude, and, it is to be hoped, the usefulness, of the Historical Society have been greatly increased. Citizens at large have taken more interest in its advancement ; its library at length amounts to 7000 volumes; and a handsome collection of portraits of Governors of the State and of other distinguished individuals, with several landscape views of interesting localities, hang on its walls ; the number of valuable relics in its pos- session is augmented, and is still growing; funds pre- served for a building, for publication, for binding the books, &c., now in total amount exceed nineteen thou- sand dollars ; and very liberal contributions in books, and, in one instance, of relics that cannot be replaced, have been received from the governments of the United States, of Pennsylvania, and of Great Britain, as well as from foreign and American Societies, and from the family of William Penn. Valuable and important lega- cies are promised for the future. Still, it is necessary for truth and for the objects of the Society to say, that there is, and for a long coming period can be, no provision for the increase and com- pletion of its library, other than in the liberality of its friends ; and the Society, therefore, is yet in need of such donations as may be worthy of preservation, and may correspond with the views of jjersons who vahie and wisii to promote these inijuiries. In some depart- ments of American Iiistory the collection is, as yet, very incomplete; and the Executive Committee have it at present in view to take measures for extending it, so tiiat the student may find, in these points, all the refer- ences needed for his researches. For the erection of a fire-proof hall, too, a "Building Fund" has been com- menced, for which twenty-five hundred dollars have been collected, and it is hoped that the obvious need for such a protection may induce the liberal to aid in the under- taking. The Publication Fund was commenced in 1854; and now amounts to upwards of fifteen thousand dollars, held in trust by John Jordan, Jr., George Shars- wooD, and Oswald Thompson. A payment of twenty dollars obtains the right to receive, during life, a copy of each publication. For Libraries this privilege continues twenty years. There have been publishdl since its foundation, — In 1856, The IIistory of Braddock's Expedition. In 1858, Contributions to American History. In 1860, Record of Upland, and Denny's Military Journal. ' There is in preparation for publication during the next winter, The History of the Town of Bethlehem, and of THE Moravian Settlements in North Eastern Pennsylvania, from original sources, in large oc- tavo, handsomely illustrated. HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF PENNSYLVANIA. Officers for 1863. 'Pres'dent. .TOSEPn R. INGERSOLL. V/ce Presidents. J. FRANCIS FISHER, GEORGE CHAMBERS, OF CnAJliiEliSBUIiG. BENJAMIN II. COATES, NEVILLE B. CRAIG, OP PiTTSBUKGII. Treasurer. CHARLES M. MORRIS. Eecording Secretary. SAMUEL L. SMEDLEY. Corresponding Secretary. HORATIO G. JONES. Librarian. SAMUEL HAZARD. Library Committee. JOHN JORDAN, Jr., CHARLES J. BIDDLE, JOHN A. MCALLISTER. Publication Committee. WILLIAM DUANE, CHARLF^ H. HTTCmNSON, JOHN ASIIUURST, Ji{. Finance Committee. EDWARD ARMSTRONG, JOSEPH CARSON, AUBREY n. SMITH. EESIDENT MEMBERS. Those marked witli au * are Life-Members. *Anen, Wm. H. Allihnne, Saml. Austiu Allison, Jos. Ashbridge, Wm. Addieks, John E. Atwood, Jno. H. *Armstrontf, Edward ♦Armstroni;, Wm. G. *Ashton, Saml. K. Ashhiirst, Win. II. *Asliiiurst, Lewis R. *Ashhiirst, Henry *Aslihiirst, llicliard L. *Aslihnrst, Richard ■*Ashhurst, Jolm *Ashhnrst, jr., Richard Andenried, Lewis *Ashhurst, jr., .lolm ^Austin, Jno. B. Ashbnrst, Lewis Bradford, Chas. S. Baird, Heurv C, Bald, J. Dofsey Brainerd, Rev. Thos. *Balch, Thomas Bradford, Wm. Baldwin, Mathias W. Bailey, E. Westcott Blauehard, Wm. A. Baird, Wm. M. Ball, Georsre W. *Baclie, Franklin *Bache, T. Hewson Barton, Isaac Bates, Jos. W. Barclay, Clement B. Baker, J. B. Bray, Wm. K. Bargh, AVm. Barnes, Oliver W. *Baird, Matthew Barcroft, Staccy B. Bacon, Alexander Barnes, Rev. Albert Bettle, Wm. Benson, Alexander, jr. *Bell, John T. *Benners, Wm. J. *'Bensell, Geortce F. ''Belts, Richard K. Benton, Stephen Biddle, Craig Biddle, Edward C. Biddle, Thos. Biddle, Chas. J. Brinton, J. II. Biddle, Clement *Biddle, Geo. W. '■Biddle, Thomas A. Blifflii, George Biddle, Chapman Blight, Atherlon Biddle, John B. Biddle, AVm. *Biddle, Alexander *Bowen, Smith Boardman, Rev. H. A. Boi-den, Edward T. *Bohlen, Jno. Boker, Geo. H. ♦ Bofie, Adolph E. Brock, John P. Bond, Montgomery L. Bomherger, Rev. .j. H. *Bowers, Edward Bowen, Ezra Boker, Chas. S. Bowie, Ashhurst K. Boyd, W. Stokes Brudliead, John Brotherhi'ad, Wni. *Brown, Frederick *Brown, J. Johnson Brown, David S. Brown, John A. *Brown, David Paul Brown, Alexander ♦Brown, Jos. D. Browne, John C. Browne, N. B. Browne, Horace G. Buck, Francis N. Budd, Thos. A. Buckley, Edward S. *Bntler, John M. Bnrgin, Geo. H. Burt, Nathaniel Bullitt, Jno. C. Budd, John B. Clark, Edward W. *Craig, Isaac Eugene Cadwalader, Wm. Caldwell, Jas. E. Carleton, Henry Carpenter, Jos. R. Clay, H. Gibbs N Caniic'I, S. Wilmer CaUklcnsh. Wm. G. Cain;ilK'll. St. Georj;e Tui-Ucr Chiuincev, Charles Cat.ell, a; G. Cabot, Joseph Crpifc. TIios. H. Chaiuiler. Jas. B. *Cnrver. Alexander B. Cadwaiader, John Ch.-ndler. Jos. R. Cartwaladev, George Clay, Jos. A. Ca'soii. Jos. *Chav,ibers, Wm. B. Cliancellor, Win. Chancellor. Wharton Clauliorn. .jaci'os L. Carey. Henry C. Caniac, Jno. B. Carpenter. Saml. H. Craven. Tlios. *Cresso>i, M'm. P. Cresson, John C. Cheiv, Samuel Cleaveland. Chas. D. Chihls, Geo. W. ^Christian, Saml. J. Crissv, James Conner, PhUlp S. P. Cojie, Al fred *Cope, Caleb Cope, Francis R. Cope, Herman Cope, .John E. Cope, Tl\os. P. Coleman. G. Dawson Coehr.-m, Travis *Coehran, Wm. G. *CollinR, TiDin^'lu'St K. Crozer. John P. *Conrad, Rev. Thos. K. Collins. Frederiek Coolev, Aaron B. *Corlies, S. Fisher Coffin, Lemnel *ColUs. Wm. Coxe, Brinton *CofHn, Arthur G. *Consland, Wm. Coojier, Rev. C. D. Col well, Stephen *fCoates, Benj. H. Conily, Franklin A. Coi)pini;er. Wm. Collins, Wm. JI. *Coles, Edward *Conarroe, Geo. W. Cooke, Jav Corse. J. Si. Churchman, Chas. W. Cummins, 1). B. Cummisky, James Cunimiskey, Euirene CoUaday, Geo. W. Drayton, Wm. Heyward Dawson, Mordeeai L. *Da Costa, John C. Davis, Lemnel IT. Dare. Charles P. Davids. Hush *Dreer, Ferdinand J. Dreer, Frederiek A. Drexel, Anthonv J. De Silver, Harrison T. De Silver. Frank Deehert. Henry M Derltvshire. A. J. Diehi. Jolm H. Dickson, Samuel H., JNI. Dickson, Saiiinel D'Invillicrs. C. Dobsiin. Z. Poulson *Duane, William Dunlaji, Tliomas Dundas, James Ducaehet. Rev. Henry \V Dubois, Wm. E. Edwa''ds, Howard *Earl, Harrison Evans, Hora<'e Evans, Manlius G. *Errickson. Michael *Ellis, Charles Erriuicer, .J. L. Emory, Charles *Ehvyn, A. Langdon Frazer, John F. Farnum. John Fraley, Frederiek Fagan, John *Fahnestock, George W. Farmer, Jas. S. ♦ Fleming, William W. Fenimore, Jason L. *Fell, J. Gilliugham Felton, S. M. *Fernon, Thomas S. Fennell, William Freas, Philip R. Field, Rev. George C. *Fisher, James C. *Fisher, Joshua Francis Fisher, Jabez B. Fling, Henrv Findlav, John K. *FouIke, William Parker Fox, Charles P. Foust, Robert M. 1). Foulku, Fivnncis E. Foruev, Jolm W. *FotteraIl, Stephen G^ Furaess, James T. *rullertou, Alexander Fry, J. Reese Fry. Horace B. Fryer, GreviUe E. ♦Gardette, E. B. *Graft', Frederick GraB', Charles H. Graeff, Edward C. Gratz, Simon Garrett, Thomas C. Greble, Edwin ♦ Gerhard. Benjamin Gilpin, John F. Grig?, John W. Gibbons. Charles Gilpin, Charles Grim;. John Gilbert, D., M.D. Gwinn, John Griffiths, jr., William F. Gilbert. K. W., M.D. *Gr()Ut, Henry T. Goddard. Rev. Kingston ♦Gorton, George W. Godwin, Francis A. Gordon, N. P. Cioforth, John Goodwin, Rev. D. R. Gross. Samuel D. Guillou, Constant Gnlager, William Harvey, Samuel, jr. Hart, Abraham *Hart, Wm. H. Hart, Thomas Hart. John S. Hare, R. Harford' Hare, J. I. Clark ♦ Harrison, William Henry ♦ Harrison, Joseph Haseltiue, Albert C. Harvey, Josiah L. ♦Harper, Alexander J. Hammersly, George Hazard, Spencer Hazard, Erskine ♦Hazard, Samuel Hacker, Isaiah Hacker, Morris ♦Hacker, Jeremiah ♦Haseltiue, John ♦Harding, Jesper ■•■•Haseltine, Ward B. Hayes. Isaac I. Haydeu. H. V. Hartshorne, Edward Hart, Charles H. Hall, Tliomas M. Hand, Jas. C. Harmar, Charles ♦Hclmuth, Henry ♦Henshaw, I. S. ♦Henry, Morton P. ♦Heazl'ett, Ch. F. ♦Heberton, G. Craig Hill, Marshall Iloff, Henry K. (U. S. N.) Hodge, J. Ledyard Hobson. George W. HolUngsworth, Samuel Howe, Rev. M. A. De Wolf ♦Houston, William C. Hood, Samuel Hopkinson, Jos. Hopliinson, Oliver Hollingsworth, Thomas G. Hod^-e; Hny-h L. Howell, Artliur H. Hutter, Rev. Edward W. Huddy, Benjamin F. ♦Hutchinson, Charles Hare Hutchinson, J. Peraherlou Hunt, Benjamin P. Hurst, Edward Ruber, James S. ♦IngersoU, Edward IngersoU, Joseph P.. IngersoU, Charles ♦Ingram, Harlan ♦James, John O. Jacobs, Rev. William B. Jenkins, J. Edward Jeuks, Wm. P. ♦Jordan, John, jr. ♦Jordati, Francis Jones, Horatio G. ♦Jones, George W. Johnston, Alexander ♦Jones, D. D. ♦Jones, Andrew M. Johnson, J. Warner Jones, Samuel, M.D. Jones, Joseph Judson, Oliver A. Judson, W. F. Justice, George R. Juvenal, A. W. Kane, Robert P. ♦ Kane, Thomas L. Krauth, Rev. Chas. P. Kelly, E. Smith Kent, William C. Kent, Rodolphus ICelkn-, lion. Win. D. Kii'ii, William 11.^ Kollv. Cliark'S Koiidiill, E. Otis 'Kimbrr, Thomas, jr. King-, Koliurt P. Kinsoy, William Kiuu". Francis Knight, Kihvard C. Kiuii:, D. Rodney Kouigmaehcr, A. A. *Lanilulin, Gcorse C. *Laraluliu, Jas. R. *Laml>L-rt, John La Roche, V. Percy La Roche, Rene, M. D. Lardner, Jas. L., U. S. N., Larduer, Richard P. Law, Philip H. Leedom, B. J. *Lee, Georiie F. *Levick, Jas. J. *Lennig, Frederick Lewis, John T. Lewis, Abm. J. Lea. Isaac *Lejee, William R. Lewis, Ellis Lercrinit, Lemuel S. Lewis. Edwin M. Lesley, J. P. Leescr, Rev. Isaac Lindsay, John Lippincott, Joshua B. Littell, I'. Willing *Livezcy, John Louiiacrc, Jas. B. Longhead, Jos. P. *Logaii, J. Dickinson Lloyd, Franklin Lovering, Jos. S. *Loper. R. F. *Loper. William H. Ludlow, Richard McAllister, Wardale G. McAllister, John, jr. McAllister, John A. McAllister, Thomas H. McAllister, William Y. *McArthur, John, jr. McCall, Peter McCammon, D. C. McClcUan, J. II. B. McKean, Henry Pratt *McIIenrv, George McElroy, William J. McElroy, Thomas E. McCrea", James A. McMiehael, Morton Mclntyrc, Archihakl JIcMnVtrie. Richard C. McCurdy, John R. Mann, llov. William J. Mayluny, William Maicolm, Rev. Howard Martin, Sanderson R. Maddoek. William L. *Mason, Wm. Sanford JIartinez, S. A. Jlagarge, Charles Maealester, Charles Maris, Matthias Jlann, William B. JL-ithias, John T. JIartin, Georae II. Marklev. Edward C. Marsh, "Bcnj. V. Meredith, William Meredith, William M. Merrick. Samuel V. Mercer, Singleton A. Megargee, Sylvester J. *MeIlor, Thoinas Merrick, J. Vaughan Messchert, M. II., jr. Jlegargee, Irvine N. -Megargee, Theodore Merino, Felix Miles, E. Harris Miller, Andrew "Miller, E. Spencer Jlicklev. Jos. J. *Mitchell, John C. Miskey, William F. Miller, Jos. W. *:Miles, Thomas J. Mitchell, Jos. B. ilitchcU. William A. Jliddleton, E. P. Mitchell, Jas. T. Milliken, James *J[orris, Rohert *Morris, Charles M. Morris, Wistar "Morris, Israel Morris, Rev. B. Wistar Morris, William Jenks Moses, Horace Morton, Thomas George Montgomerv, Thomas H. iloore, B. H. Montgomerv, R. R. *Muir!iead, Charles H. Mnirheid, Henry P. Murphy, Alexander Myers, Jos. B. *Myers, John B. Xeal, William Newkirk, Matthew 10 Newton. Ufv. Iliehanl NewboUl, Thomas Newbolfl, Jns, S. Xen-bold, .lolm S. Ncall. Daniel Newiiall, Tliomas A. Neill, John Nicholson, Jas. B. Nicholson, Kichard L. Norris, Guor:^c \V. *Nc)rris, Samuel *\orris, William F. Norris, Isaac Novris, Isaac, jr. Notman, John Ojrden, Charles S. Orue, Jas. H. Patterson, Robert *Patterson, William C. Parrish, Geor;j:c D. Pancoast, Charles S. *Paxton, Jos. R. Palmer. .lonathan Pancoast, W. II. Paul, Jas. W. Paul, James *Parrish, nilhvyn Parrisli, William D. Plate, J. Theoiihilus Patterson, Jonathan Parsons, James Palmer, Benjamin F. Peninsrton, Edward, jr. Penington, John Peiree, William S. Pemberton, Israel Pleasants, Samuel Peddle, Geor^'e R. ♦Pepper, Lawrence S. *Pepper, Georjre S. Penrose, Clement B. * Peace, Edward Pease, James O. *Price, Richard ♦Price, Eli K. ♦Plitt, Geor-e Price, William S. Phillips, Henry M. ♦Powers. Thomas H. ♦Potter, Riirht Rev. Alonzo Powel, Samuel Poloek, M. Purves, William Queen, James W. Randolph, Philip P. Randolph, Evan Rawle, William Henry Randoljili. Samuel E. Randall, Robert E. ♦Read, T. Buchanan Read, Jno. M. ♦Remington, Thomas P. Reeves, Samnel J. ♦Repplier, John G. ♦Richards, J. W. Ritter. Jacob B. Rice, John Ringwalt. J. I.uthcr R[ark Wistcr. William Wood, >r.D.. George B. Wood, Richard Wood, George B. AVoodward, G. W. *Wood. Right Rev. James *Woolston, J. AV. *A\'ood, (ieorse A. A\"urts, M.Dr, Charles S. *A'arnall, Ellis *Yarnall, Francis Cope A'arnall, Charles A'oung, George Young, John R. Zieilcr, George K. Zeli, T. Elwood 12 CONSTITUTION. Aetiti.e I. — This Associalion shall be called "The Historical Society of Pennsylvania"— aiul its object shall be the elucidation of the history of this State, though other branches of history shall not be excluded. Art. II. — The Society shall be composed of such persons as have been, or may be, elected, from time to time, according to its laws and regulations. Art. III. — The officers of the Society shall be annually chosen, by a majority of ballots, at the stated meeting in February, and shall consist of a President, four Vice-Presidents, a Corresponding Sec- retary, a Recording Secretary, a Treasurer, and a Librarian. The candidates for all offices shall be nominated at the stated meeting in January, and no new candidates shall be nominated at the stated meeting in February, except by unanimous consent. Art. I V. — It shall be the duty of the President, or in his absence, of a Vice-President, to preside at the meetings of the Society, to preserve order, regulate debates, to state motions and cpiestious, and to announce the decisions thereupon. If neither the President nor any of the Vice-Presidents be present at a meeting, the Society may choo^^o a member to act as President at that meeting. Art. V. — The Corresponding Secretary shall conduct and have charge of the correspondence of the Society. Art. VI.— The Recording Secretary shall keep full and correct minutes of the proceedings of the Society, and shall have them transcribed into a book of record. He shall give due notice of any special meeting that may be called, and shall notify all members of their election. Art. VII. — The Treasurer shall have charge of the moneys and other funds belonging to the Society. lie shall collect the contri- butions of the members, and other income of the Society, and shall \ 13 pay such claims against the Society as shall have been duly examined and ordered to be paid. He shall annually present, at the stated meeting in January, a statement of his receipts and expenditures during the precetling year, with a full report on the financial con- dition of the Society. Art. Tin. — The Librarian shall have charge of the books, manuscripts, and other property in the rooms of the Society, and shall arrange and preserve the same in proper and convenient order. He shall keep an arranged catalogue of the books and manuscripts, and where these have been presented, shall append the names of the donors. At the stated meeting in January, he shall annually pre- sent a report to the Society, embracing an account of his adminis- tration of the library, and of its condition during the preceding year. Art. IX. — There shall be the following Standing Commitees, each to be composed of three members of the Society, viz. : 1st. Committee on the Library; 2d. Committee on Publications; 3d. Committee on Finance. The members thereof, shall serve for the term of three years, one of each Committee shall be elected annually, at the stated meeting of the Society in February. Those elected in 1862, shall draw lots for their respective terms of one, two, and three years. The members of these Committees, together with the other officers of the Society, shall form an Executive Committee, of which five shall constitute a quorum, which shall meet at the Hall on the fourth Monday of every month. Members of the Society have the right to attend the meetings of every Committee, to in- troduce motions, and to speak thereon ; and to vote at any election for members of the Society. In onler tliat the meetings of the Society shall be free for the reading of papers or for discussions on historical and literary subjects, the business of the Society shall be transacted by the Executive Committee, any member of which, however, shall have the right to call for the ayes and nays on any question to be entered on the minutes, and to bring the same, by appeal, before the Society; in which case the list of ayes and nays, together with the notice of the appeal, shall form a part of the record, and be laid before the next meeting of the Society. Art. X. — Vacancies which may occur in any of the above-named ofiBces shall be filled by an election at the next stated meeting after such vacancy shall have been announced to the Society. u Art. XI.— The Society shall hold stated meetings on the second Monday evening of every month. Special meetings may be called by the President or one of the Vice-Presidents, by giving at least three days' notice thereof in not less than two of the daily news- papers [Miblished in the City of I'hiladelphia. The members'present at any meeting shall constitute a quorum. Art. XII.— No alteration shall be made in this Constitution unless the proposed amendments shall have been drawn up in writing and read to the Society at three successive monthly stated meetings. Nor shall any such amendment be considered as adopted unless sanctioned by the votes of three-fourths of the members present at the meeting when the qnestion shall be taken upon its adoption. LAWS. Articlb I.— The election of memlicrs shall be by Ijallot, at auy stated meeting of the Society or of the E.xecutive Committee. Those members shall be deemed qualified voters at the meetings and elections who have paid their dues to the Society. A memlicr may at any meeting nominate, in writing, a candidate for membership, and if the said candidate shall receive a majority of the votes cast, he shall be deemed duly elected. On request of three members, the balloting on any candidate shall be postponed to the nest stated meeting. A viva voce vote on the election of a member may be taken, if so ordered. The balloting being gone through, the boxes shall be opened, and the result of the poll declared l)y the presiding officer. The written nominations of the members elected shall be preserved by the Secretary for future reference. Art. II.— Such members as reside within the City of Philadel- phia, shall pay an annual contribution of three dollars. The pay- ment of Iwcnti/ dollars at one time, by a member, shall constitute him a member for life, with an exemption from all future annual payments. Any member liable to an annual contribution, who shall neglect or refuse to pay the same for the term of two years, may by the action of the Kxecutive Committee, have his rights as a member suspended, and in case the said arrears are not paid when the third annual contribution shall have become due, the member- 15 ship of such (lefaiiltinfi' member ma}- thcu be forfciteil, and his name stricken from the roll. Art. III. — On the Society being; informed of the death of a mem- ber, the fact shall be entered on the records, and a member may be appointed to prepare an obituary notice of the deceased. The obit- uary notices of members shall be read to the Society, and they shall be bound together whenever they are sufliciently numerous to form a volume. Art. IV. — The Committee of Finance shall have the general superintendence of the financial concerns of the Society; they shall audit and certify all bills for payment by the Treasurer ; they shall always have access to hi.s books, accounts, and vouchers, and shall examine and audit his annual report, as well as those of the Trus- tees of the special funds of the Society. They shall consult with the Treasurer, and authorize and direct the investment of surplus funds. ^r,T. V. — 'l"he Committee of Publication shall superintend the printing and distribution of such publications as may be ordered to be made by the Trustees of the Publication Fund. They shall have power to call on the Librarian for his assistance in the perforuuxnce of their duties. Art. YI. — The Committee on the Library shall confer with and assist the Librarian in the general care and management of the library, and shall control the disbursement of such appropriations as may be made by the Society for its increase and maintenance, as well as in the disposition and arrangement of the books, maps, doc- uments, and paintings belonging to the Society. Art. VII.^All Special Committees shall be chosen, on nomina- tions made by members present, unlass the Society shall otherwise direct. The member first named of any committee shall be the chairman. Art. YIII. — A majority of any committee shall be a quorum. Special committees shall report at the meeting next after that at which they were appointed, unless otherwise ordered by the Society. All reports shall be in writing, and signed by the members agreeing thereto. 16 Art. IX. — The Librarian shall attend at the Library, at such hours as the Executive Committee shall, from time to time, direct: and the rooms shall be opened on every Monday evening-, between the hours of 8 and 10, except during- June, July, and August. Art. X. — No alteration or amendment of the laws and regula- tions of the Society shall bo made or considered, unless the same shall have been duly proposed and fairly drawn up in writing at one stated meeting of the Society, and laid over for consideration and enactment at the nest stated meeting ; nor shall any such altera- tion, amendment, or regulation be considered as passed or binding upon the members, unless the same be sanctioned by the vote of three-fonrlhs of the number of qualified members then present. Art. XL — The laws and regulations contained in the foregoing articles shall be in force from and after the time of their adoption by the Society, and thereafter all other laws and regulations here- tofore made by the Society, and not contained in its Constitution, shall be, and the same are hereby repealed. ORDER OP BUSINESS. I. The chair taken by the presiding officer. II. New members presented, and visitors from other Socie- ties introduced. III. Records read of fast meeting, and of any subsequent special meeting. IV. Correspondence read. V. Donations and other additions announced : a. To the Library. h. Other donations or additions. VI. Reports and communications on historical and literary subjects. VII. Obituary notices of members read, and announcements of the decease of members made and acted on. VIII. Balloting for candidates for membership. IX. Reports on business from officers and committees. X. Deferred business. XI. New business. XII. Minutes of the meeting read and submitted for correction. XIII. The Society adjourned by the presiding ofiRcer. / LIBRfiRY OF CONGRESS 011 838 179 Historical Society of Pennsylvania. STATED MEETINGS. 1863. Thr EXKCUTIVE Committee, Feb. 23d. ( The Society, A ugust loth. Society, March gth. - K Executive Committee, " 24th. Executive Committee, " a3d. . " Society, . Sept. 14th. Society, April I 3th. «' Executive Committee, (( 2Stll. EXECUTIVK Committee, *' 27th. i* Society, - Oct. izth. Society, May 1 ith. Executive Committee, tt z6tli. Executive CoMMrTTEE, " 25th. " Society, - Nov . 9th. Society, June 8th. (1 Executive Committee, " 2^d. Executive Committee, *' 22d. (( Society, - Dec. 14th. Society, July 13th. (( Executive Committee, (t 28th. Executive Committee, " 27th. 18 34. , The Society, January iirli. " Executive Commi ttee '* 2 5th. " Society, February 8th. I'he Hai.l of the Society, No. 8 Athen:ruin Building, Sixth and Adelphi Streets. The Annual Contribution is Three Dollars, payable in advance, lo the Treasurer, Charles M. Morris, No. 136 Waln.ut Street, or to the Collector. Lite Membership, Twenty Dollars. The Hall is open to the public e\ ery day, trom 12 M. to 2 1'. M. und with the exception ol the months of June. July and August, on every Monday Evening.